Best M.2 External SSD of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

M.2 external SSDs are compact and powerful storage solutions that offer high-speed data transfer rates and enhanced durability. These SSDs are designed to fit into a variety of devices, from laptops to desktops, and can be used to store large files such as videos, photos, and games. They offer significant advantages over traditional hard drives, including faster boot times, improved system responsiveness, and reduced power consumption. Additionally, M.2 external SSDs are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for professionals and gamers who need to transport large amounts of data quickly and easily.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

OWC 1TB Express 1M2 SSD Cover #TOP 1
OWC 1TB Express 1M2 SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ASUS TUF Gaming AS1000 Plus SSD Cover #TOP 2
ASUS TUF Gaming AS1000 Plus SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Skyerd 1TB Portable External SSD Cover #TOP 3
Skyerd 1TB Portable External SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 3 M.2 External SSD

#TOP 1

OWC 1TB Express 1M2 SSD

OWC
OWCUS4EXP1M2
Silver
OWC 1TB Express 1M2 SSD Cover
OWC 1TB Express 1M2 Portable NVMe Thunderbolt (USB-C) SSD USB4 Ultra Fast External SSD Drive with Aluminum Heat Sink Enclosure

The OWC 1TB SSD offers exceptional speed, exceeding traditional Thunderbolt enclosures with performance reaching up to 3151MB/s. This means you can transfer large files quickly, saving you time during your busy day. Its compatibility with USB4, Thunderbolt, and USB-C devices ensures that you can easily connect it to a variety of computers and gadgets. The rugged aluminum casing not only protects your drive but also helps maintain a cool temperature, ensuring consistent performance. Plus, its compact, portable design makes it easy to take with you wherever you go, providing flexibility and convenience for your storage needs.

What We Like
Ultra-fast data transfer
Wide compatibility
Durable aluminum casing
Portable and compact
#TOP 2

ASUS TUF Gaming AS1000 Plus SSD

BLACK
ASUS TUF Gaming AS1000 Plus SSD Cover
ASUS TUF Gaming AS1000 Plus —USB-C 3.2 Gen 2x2 Portable M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD 1 TB, Up to 2000MB/s, MIL-STD-810H Drop Resistance, IP68 Water and dust Resistance, Aluminum Alloy Chassis and a Thermal pad

The ASUS TUF SSD offers ultra-fast file transfers with its M.2 NVMe PCIe technology, allowing you to move large files quickly and efficiently. Its military-grade durability ensures that it can withstand drops and resist water and dust, making it perfect for on-the-go use. The aluminum chassis, combined with a thermal pad, helps keep the drive cool during intense tasks, which can prolong its lifespan. Additionally, you receive NTI Backup Now EZ software, allowing you to easily back up your data, ensuring your important files are always safe.

What We Like
Fast file transfer speeds
Durable and water-resistant
Effective heat dissipation
Data backup software included
#TOP 3

Skyerd 1TB Portable External SSD

Skyerd
SRD 1T
Gray
1 TB SSD
Skyerd 1TB Portable External SSD Cover
Skyerd M.2 NVMe PCIe 1 TB Aluminum Portable External SSD (SSD Included),USB3.1 Gen2(USB-C 10Gbps Up to 1050MB/s), Adapter for Desktops, Laptops, Mac and More, Gray

The Skyerd External SSD offers a spacious 1TB of storage in a sleek and portable design. With its NVMe PCIe technology, you can enjoy remarkable data transfer speeds of up to 1050MB/s, making it ideal for handling large files efficiently. The rugged aluminum alloy body not only provides durability but also protects your data on the go. Additionally, it features a USB 3.1 Gen2 interface for seamless compatibility with various devices like desktops and laptops, ensuring quick access to your important files whenever you need them.

What We Like
High-speed data transfer
Durable aluminum body
Portable design
Compatible with various devices
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use m2 SSD as external drive?

Yes, you can but you need to install it into USB drive enclosure just like you would with a regular Hard drive. You may not realize the performance gain of the SSD unless it is a USB 3.0 enclosure and the computer that you are using it on has USB 3.0 Ports.

2. Is an M 2 better than an SSD?

Even at this smaller size, M. 2 SSDs are able to hold as much data as other SSDs, ranging up to 8TB in storage size. But, while they can hold just as much data and are generally faster than other SSDs, they also come at a higher cost.

3. Can you use m 2 externally?

In that case, in terms of external chassis format, you can either go for a 2.5” enclosure and put a standard 2,5” SATA SSD in it, or you can go for an M. 2 format type of external enclosure, like one I have here and put an M. 2 SSD module in it. Within the M.

4. How do I read my m 2 SSD externally?

Orico M.2 Caja SSDStarTech M.2 NVMe SSD USB CKingwin KW-U3NGFF External USB 3.0 to M.2 sata SSD EnclosureVisionTek Drive Enclosure M 2 901357Tripp Lite U457-1M2-NVMEG2 USB-C to M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure AdapterPortable Ssd M.2 External Hard Drive Externo Hd 1tb 2tb 4tb Usb3.0OWC Envoy Pro EX USB-CM.2 SATA SSD to USB 3.0 External SSD Reader Converter Adapter Enclosure with UASPSolid State Drive External M.2 Laptop Hard Drive Type-C Portable Mini SSD DiskFIDECO M.2 NVME USB C SSD -kotelosovitin USB 3.1 Gen 2 10 Gbps NVME PCIe M-Key Solid State Drive ulkoiseen koteloon UASP:llä M.2 NVME SSD:lleDigifast DGME01B M.2 Nvme Ssd to Usb3.1 EnclosureSabrent Rocket SSDOrico M.2 NVMe SSD EnclosureORICO M2PAC3Xtrempro USB 3.0 External 5Gbps To NGFF M.2 SATA SSD Internal 6Gbps Enclosure 11003DMLIANKE Aluminum M.2 Ngff to USB 3.1 M.2 SSD Enclosure External SSD Enclosure Sata BasedLittle Triangle M.2 NVME SSD External ConverterSsd M.2 External Hard Drive Portable Externo Hd 1tb 2tb 4tb Usb3.0iStorage diskAshur M2

Editor's Notes

During our m.2 external ssd research, we found 24 m.2 external ssd products and shortlisted 3 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,862 customer reviews through our big data system to write the m.2 external ssd list. We found that most customers choose m.2 external ssd with an average price of $142.66.

The m.2 external ssd are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of m.2 external ssd, including OWC, ASUS, Skyerd. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 537 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.