As we continue to accumulate documents, photos, videos, and even install programs and games, the demand for storage space has surged. Over the years, we’ve witnessed remarkable advancements in storage technology, from the early days of MFM SCSI and IDE drives with that modest 750MB capacity to the introduction of SATA drives and the game-changing SSDs (Solid State Drives). The latest milestone in digital storage technology is the M.2 SSD.
Unlike traditional drives, the M.2 SSD slots directly into a designated port on your motherboard and is secured in place with a screw. One noteworthy M.2 SSD in the spotlight is the WD_Black SN850X NVMe SSD, featuring PCIe Gen 4 x4 NVMe support. It’s worth mentioning that Western Digital has recently unveiled a 4TB version, taking storage capacity to new heights. The M.2 SSD’s compact size is a standout feature, and it offers impressive data transfer speeds. However, one drawback is that M.2 drives took some time to catch up in terms of storage capacity compared to their larger SSD counterparts. Pricing for the new Western Digital M.2 SSDs hovers around $299 for the latest models, with the 2TB variant priced at approximately $119.
One challenge that some have pondered is how to duplicate, clone, or upgrade systems with M.2 drives. While there are various docking systems available for IDE, SATA, and standard SSDs, the M.2 realm presented a unique challenge – until Sabrent stepped in. Sabrent has introduced an M.2 Storage/Enclosure crafted from aluminum (which also helps dissipate heat generated by the M.2 drive). Simply plug your M.2 drive into this enclosure, close it up, and connect it to your computer via USB-C and included adapter. The enclosure includes all the necessary cables and adapters for a hassle-free experience.
For those looking to upgrade from a 1TB M.2 to a 2TB or 4TB version, Sabrent sweetens the deal by bundling a free download of Acronis True Image for SABRENT software, making cloning a breeze. This enclosure typically retails for around $35, and it’s wise to ensure compatibility with your specific M.2 drive, as there are different M.2 styles in existence.
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- M.2 SSD Technology: M.2 is a form factor for solid-state drives (SSDs) that is characterized by its small, thin, and light design. It was introduced to replace the older mSATA and mini-PCIe connectors. M.2 drives are designed to fit directly into a compatible slot on a motherboard, eliminating the need for cables and connectors, which can improve airflow and reduce clutter within the computer case.
- WD_ Black SN850X NVMe SSD: The WD_Black SN850X from Western Digital is an M.2 NVMe SSD known for its high-speed performance. It utilizes the PCIe Gen 4 interface, which provides significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to previous generations. This makes it an excellent choice for demanding tasks like gaming, content creation, and data-intensive applications.
- Storage Capacities: As technology advances, M.2 SSDs are becoming available in larger capacities. The 2TB variant we mentioned is a substantial amount of storage, suitable for storing a vast number of documents, photos, videos, and even games and programs. It’s worth noting that SSDs, including M.2 SSDs, have become more affordable per gigabyte over the years, making high-capacity options like the 2TB WD_Black SN850X accessible to more users.
- M.2 Enclosures: M.2 enclosures are essential tools for various purposes. These enclosures allow you to convert an M.2 SSD into an external drive that can be connected to your computer via USB. This is especially useful when you need to clone or transfer data from one M.2 drive to another or if you want to use an M.2 SSD as a portable storage device.
- Cloning and Upgrading: Upgrading to a larger M.2 SSD is made more accessible with tools like the Sabrent M.2 enclosure, which includes software for cloning. Cloning allows you to duplicate the contents of your existing M.2 drive onto a new, larger one without reinstalling the operating system and applications. This can save a lot of time and effort when upgrading your storage capacity.
- Price Considerations: As mentioned, M.2 SSD prices have become more competitive, making them a viable option for various users. Prices can vary based on factors such as capacity, brand, and performance, so it’s a good idea to research and compare different M.2 SSD models to find the one that suits your needs and budget. If you are thinking about building a system, take a look at a motherboard that supports the M.2
In conclusion, M.2 SSDs like the WD_Black SN850X offer high-speed performance and ample storage capacity for modern computing needs. The use of M.2 enclosures with cloning software simplifies the process of upgrading or transferring data, making them valuable tools for enthusiasts and professionals. As technology continues to advance, we can expect further innovations in storage solutions. For More information on Western Digital take a look at https://www.westerndigital.com and Sabrent at https://www.sabrent.com