M.2 slots are becoming increasingly popular in modern computers and laptops. They offer fast read and write speeds, small form factors, and the ability to connect various types of storage devices. However, not all M.2 slots are created equal.
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One of the most common questions people ask is whether all M.2 slots are compatible with any type of drive or device. The answer is no – not all M.2 slots are compatible with every type of drive or device.
Keying
The reason for this incompatibility lies in a concept called keying. Keying refers to the physical notch in the M.2 slot that determines what type of device can be inserted into it.
There are three types of keying: B key, M key, and B+M key. Each key has a different notch placement and pin configuration that allows for different types of devices to be inserted into the slot.
- B key: This type of key has six pins on the left side and five on the right side of the notch, allowing SSDs with SATA or PCIe ×2 interfaces to be inserted into the slot.
- M key: This type of key has five pins on both sides of the notch, allowing SSDs with PCIe ×4 interfaces to be inserted into the slot.
- B+M key: This type of key has both B and M notches, allowing for both SATA and PCIe ×4 SSDs to be inserted into the slot.
Compatibility
In order for an M.2 drive to be compatible with an M.2 slot, the keys must match up correctly. For example, if you have an M key SSD, you’ll need an M key slot to insert it into. If you attempt to insert an M key SSD into a B key slot, it won’t fit and won’t work.
However, there are some M.2 slots that are designed to be compatible with multiple key types. These slots are known as “universal” or “shared” slots and can accept SSDs with different types of keys.
It’s important to check the specifications of your motherboard or laptop before purchasing an M.2 drive to ensure compatibility. The manual or product page should indicate which type of keys the slot supports.
Conclusion
In summary, not all M. Keying plays a crucial role in determining what type of devices can be inserted into the slot, and it’s important to check for compatibility before making a purchase.
With that said, many modern motherboards and laptops now come equipped with universal or shared slots that can accept different types of keys, making it easier for users to upgrade their storage devices without worrying about compatibility issues.