Looking Beyond the DKARDU M.2 NVMe SSD? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Comparing Key Differences

S Sharkspeed 1TB MacBook Pro Internal SSD

The S Sharkspeed drive targets the MacBook Pro A1708 specifically. Unlike the DKARDU adapter which requires you to source and install your own NVMe module, this unit is a complete 1TB SSD ready for immediate use. It includes pre-installed software to simplify the transfer process. This option removes the compatibility guesswork associated with the DKARDU adapter, which supports many models but requires manual macOS upgrades and driver management. You gain a higher capacity out of the box. However, you lose the flexibility to use different drive brands or capacities later. If you own a 2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar 13-inch MacBook Pro, this direct replacement is simpler than using an adapter.

Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB NVMe M.2 SSD

The Samsung 970 EVO Plus is a standalone 500GB NVMe drive, not an adapter. It offers Gen3 performance and thermal protection, focusing on speed and stability. The DKARDU product is merely a conversion card that requires a separate NVMe SSD to function. If you choose the Samsung drive, you must ensure your system has a compatible M.2 slot or use a different adapter. This option is better for users who prioritize proven Gen3 speeds and thermal management over the convenience of a pre-packaged upgrade solution. It fits systems that support standard M.2 NVMe drives directly. You get a reliable drive with established firmware support, but you must handle the physical installation and compatibility checks yourself, unlike the DKARDU bundle which simplifies the MacBook conversion process.

KIOXIA EXCERIA 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD

The Kioxia Exceria 500GB is a budget-friendly NVMe SSD designed for Gen3 systems. Like the Samsung option, it is a drive, not an adapter card. The DKARDU product serves as the bridge for older MacBooks, while this Kioxia unit is the storage component. If you already have an adapter or a compatible M.2 slot, this drive provides value. It lacks the specific MacBook compatibility guarantees of the DKARDU adapter. You get a solid budget drive for older or mid-range systems. However, you must verify that your specific laptop model supports the NVMe protocol natively or via an adapter. This option is best for users who want a cost-effective storage upgrade and are comfortable managing the hardware integration separately from the drive purchase.

GIGABYTE AORUS 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD

The GIGABYTE AORUS 1TB is a PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD built for gaming performance. It features an external DDR cache for consistent speeds under heavy loads. This is a significant step up from the Gen3 capabilities typically associated with the older MacBooks supported by the DKARDU adapter. The DKARDU card converts slots for older hardware, limiting you to Gen3 speeds. This GIGABYTE drive requires a motherboard with PCIe 4.0 support to reach its full potential. It is ideal for modern gaming PCs or workstations. You gain massive speed advantages but lose compatibility with the older MacBook models that the DKARDU adapter targets. Choose this if you need high throughput for gaming and have compatible hardware, rather than upgrading an older laptop.

Seagate Barracuda Q5 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD

The Seagate Barracuda Q5 1TB is a budget NVMe SSD suitable for standard laptops and desktops. It uses QLC NAND, which offers high capacity at a lower cost. The DKARDU adapter is a specialized tool for MacBooks, not a drive itself. This Seagate unit is a standalone storage solution. It fits users who want a large 1TB capacity without spending much. Unlike the DKARDU adapter, which solves a specific connectivity issue for older Macs, this drive requires a standard M.2 slot. It is a practical upgrade for modern systems. You get value and capacity. However, it does not address the compatibility challenges of older laptops. If you have a modern PC or laptop, this is a straightforward choice. If you have an older MacBook, you still need an adapter.

Mustpoint M.2 NVMe to U.2 Adapter

The Mustpoint M.2 to U.2 adapter allows you to use M.2 NVMe drives in 2.5-inch bays. This is a completely different use case than the DKARDU adapter, which converts laptop slots for MacBooks. The DKARDU product helps older Macs accept M.2 drives. This Mustpoint adapter helps desktops or servers accept M.2 drives in traditional bays. It is a practical tool for repurposing existing NVMe SSDs. You gain flexibility in drive placement for larger systems. You lose the specific MacBook compatibility that the DKARDU adapter provides. This option is best for users who need to reuse M.2 drives in desktop chassis with 2.5-inch drive bays. It is not suitable for upgrading older MacBooks. Choose this if you are working with desktop hardware and need to adapt form factors.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

DKARDU M.2 NVMe SSD MacBook Adapter (2-Pack)

Best for: Upgrading storage in older MacBook Pro and Air models

Interface

NVMe

Form Factor

M.2

Compatibility

Mac

Weight

0.71 ounces

View on Amazon: DKARDU M.2 NVMe SSD MacBook Adapter (2-Pack) Affiliate link

This adapter lets you install standard M.2 NVMe SSDs into older MacBook Pro and Air models. It supports M-key PCIe NVMe and AHCI sockets, converting the proprietary slot for broader compatibility. You need macOS 10.13 or later for proper NVMe protocol support. The unit weighs 0.71 ounces and comes in black. It is designed specifically for Mac users looking to upgrade storage in 2013-2017 devices.

Pros

• Supports M-key PCIe NVMe and AHCI SSD sockets
• Compatible with MacBook Pro 2013-2015 and Air 2013-2017
• Works with major NVMe brands like Samsung and WD
• Lightweight design at 0.71 ounces

Cons

• Does not support B-key or B/M-key SATA SSDs
• 2013 and 2014 laptops may not recognize NVMe drives without Mojave boot workaround
• Requires macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later for NVMe support

Good fit if

• You own a MacBook Pro (2013 late-2015) or Air (2013-2017) and want to use standard M.2 NVMe drives
• You are comfortable upgrading your macOS version to 10.13 or higher before installation
• You need a lightweight adapter to convert your laptop's proprietary drive slot

Skip if

• You have a MacBook 2013 Early model, which is not supported
• You plan to use B-key or SATA M.2 SSDs, as this adapter only accepts M-key NVMe/AHCI
• You own a 2013 or 2014 Mac and cannot boot from a Mojave USB to fix EFI firmware recognition issues

Verdict: DKARDU M.2 NVMe Adapter for MacBook enables storage upgrades for specific older Mac models using standard M.2 drives. It fits users who can manage the required macOS version and drive compatibility constraints.

2 Also great

S Sharkspeed 1TB MacBook Pro Internal SSD

Best for: MacBook Pro 13-inch A1708 upgrades

Storage Capacity

1TB

Interface

PCIe Gen3.0x4

Max Read Speed

Up to 2500MB/s

Max Write Speed

Up to 2000MB/s

Form Factor

M.2

Compatibility

Mac

View on Amazon: S Sharkspeed 1TB MacBook Pro Internal SSD Affiliate link

This S Sharkspeed drive is a direct replacement for the MacBook Pro 13-inch A1708 (Non-Touch Bar). It uses NVMe PCIe Gen3.0x4 with read speeds up to 2500MB/s and write speeds up to 2000MB/s. The unit includes pre-installed macOS and features ECC technology for data protection. It fits users needing a native M.2 upgrade without adapters.

Pros

• Read speeds up to 2500MB/s
• Write speeds up to 2000MB/s
• Pre-installed macOS for easy setup
• Native NVMe PCIe Gen3.0x4 interface

Cons

• Limited to PCIe Gen3.0x4 speeds
• Compatible only with specific MacBook Pro models
• Requires macOS 10.13 or later for recognition

Good fit if

• You own a MacBook Pro 13-inch A1708 (Non-Touch Bar)
• You want a drive with pre-installed macOS
• You need a direct M.2 replacement without adapters

Skip if

• You have a MacBook Pro with a Touch Bar
• You need PCIe Gen4.0 performance
• You use a Windows PC

Verdict: S Sharkspeed 1TB NVMe SSD for MacBook Pro A1708 is a suitable upgrade for owners of the 2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar 13-inch MacBook Pro who want a straightforward replacement with pre-installed software.

3 Best premium

Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB NVMe M.2 SSD

Best for: Gen 3 performance and thermal stability

Storage Capacity

500GB

Interface

PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 NVMe 1.3

Form Factor

M.2

Max Read Speed

Up to 3,500MB s

Max Write Speed

Up to 3,300MB s

Dimensions

0.87 × 0.09 × 3.15 inches

View on Amazon: Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB NVMe M.2 SSD Affiliate link

The Samsung 970 EVO Plus is a PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 NVMe drive with a 500GB capacity. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 3,500MB/s and write speeds up to 3,300MB/s. The drive includes Dynamic Thermal Guard to manage heat and Samsung Magician software for management. It fits M.2 slots and suits users needing reliable performance for gaming or content creation.

Pros

• Sequential read speeds up to 3,500MB/s
• Sequential write speeds up to 3,300MB/s
• Dynamic Thermal Guard for temperature control
• Samsung Magician software for optimization

Cons

• 500GB capacity is smaller than 1TB options
• Limited to PCIe Gen 3.0 interface
• No included heatsink for passive cooling

Good fit if

• You need fast Gen 3 speeds for gaming
• You want reliable thermal management
• You prefer Samsung's management software

Skip if

• You require PCIe Gen 4 bandwidth
• You need more than 500GB storage
• You prefer a drive with a built-in heatsink

Verdict: Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB NVMe SSD offers strong Gen 3 performance and thermal protection. It fits users who prioritize speed and stability over maximum capacity or newer interface standards.

4 Also great

KIOXIA EXCERIA 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD

Best for: budget upgrades for Gen3 systems

Storage Capacity

500 GB

Interface

PCIe Gen3 x4

Form Factor

M.2 2280

Dimensions

3.94 × 2.76 × 0.28 inches

View on Amazon: KIOXIA EXCERIA 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD Affiliate link

This Kioxia drive uses PCIe Gen3 x4 and NVMe 1.3c technology. It offers 350,000 read and 400,000 write IOPS. The 500 GB capacity fits in an M.2 2280 slot. It is a practical option for users who need reliable storage without the higher cost of Gen4 models. The drive is designed for standard desktop and laptop builds.

Pros

• PCIe Gen3 x4 interface for fast data transfer
• 350,000 read IOPS performance
• 400,000 write IOPS performance
• Standard M.2 2280 form factor

Cons

• 500 GB capacity is smaller than 1 TB options
• PCIe Gen3 speed is lower than Gen4 drives
• No included heatsink for thermal management

Good fit if

• You need a reliable budget NVMe drive
• You have a PCIe Gen3 compatible system
• You want a standard M.2 2280 size

Skip if

• You require more than 500 GB of storage
• You need the latest PCIe Gen4 speeds
• You are building a high-end gaming PC

Verdict: Kioxia Exceria 500GB NVMe SSD is a solid budget choice for users who prioritize value over maximum speed. It fits perfectly in older or mid-range systems that use PCIe Gen3 slots.

5 Best gaming

GIGABYTE AORUS 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD

Best for: Gaming performance and speed

Storage Capacity

1 TB

Interface

NVMe 1.3, PCI-Express 4.0 x4

Max Read Speed

Up to 5000 MB/s

Max Write Speed

Up to 4400 MB/s

Cache Type

DDR4 1 GB

Form Factor

M.2

View on Amazon: GIGABYTE AORUS 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD Affiliate link

This GIGABYTE drive uses a Phison E16 controller and 3D TLC NAND to deliver up to 5000 MB/s read speeds. It includes a 1 GB DDR4 external cache buffer to help manage data efficiently. The M.2 form factor fits standard NVMe slots. It suits gamers who need fast load times and consistent performance for demanding titles.

Pros

• PCIe 4.0 x4 interface for high bandwidth
• 1 GB DDR4 external cache buffer
• Up to 5000 MB/s sequential read speed
• 3D TLC NAND flash for reliable endurance

Cons

• Heavier build at 3.64 pounds
• Larger dimensions than standard M.2 sticks
• Limited to 1 TB capacity in this model

Good fit if

• You play graphically intensive games
• You need fast game loading times
• You want a PCIe 4.0 drive

Skip if

• You have a PCIe 3.0 only system
• You need more than 1 TB storage
• You prefer a lighter, smaller drive

Verdict: GIGABYTE AORUS 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD delivers strong speeds for gamers. The external DDR cache supports consistent performance during heavy loads.

6 Best laptop

Seagate Barracuda Q5 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD

Best for: Budget laptop and desktop upgrades

Storage Capacity

1TB

Interface

PCIe Gen3 ×4

Form Factor

M.2 2280

Max Read Speed

2400 MB/s

Max Write Speed

1800 MB/s

Compatibility

Laptop, Desktop

View on Amazon: Seagate Barracuda Q5 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD Affiliate link

The Seagate Barracuda Q5 is an M.2 2280 NVMe SSD designed for laptops and desktops. It uses PCIe Gen3 ×4 interface and 3D QLC NAND. Sequential read speeds reach 2400 MB/s, while writes hit 1800 MB/s. This drive offers a slim profile at 0.08 inches thick. It fits users who need reliable storage upgrades without the premium cost of TLC NAND drives.

Pros

• Sequential read speeds up to 2400 MB/s
• Compatible with both laptops and desktops
• Slim M.2 2280 form factor
• Includes free Seagate DiscWizard software for cloning

Cons

• Uses QLC NAND which may have lower endurance
• Slower write speeds compared to TLC alternatives
• Limited to PCIe Gen3 interface

Good fit if

• You are upgrading a laptop with limited space
• You need a budget-friendly NVMe upgrade
• You want to clone your existing drive easily

Skip if

• You require maximum write endurance for heavy workloads
• You need the fastest PCIe Gen4 speeds available
• You prefer TLC NAND for better longevity

Verdict: Seagate Barracuda Q5 1TB NVMe SSD fits users who prioritize value and compatibility over peak performance. It is a practical upgrade for standard laptops and desktops.

7 Best budget

Mustpoint M.2 NVMe to U.2 Adapter

Best for: Reusing M.2 NVMe drives in 2.5-inch bays

Interface

NVMe

Form Factor

M.2

Weight

4.83 ounces

View on Amazon: Mustpoint M.2 NVMe to U.2 Adapter Affiliate link

This adapter lets you install an M.2 NVMe SSD into a standard 2.5-inch drive bay using a U.2 interface. It supports PCIe NVMe drives and is backward compatible with earlier PCIe versions. The unit weighs 4.83 ounces and includes a two-year warranty with lifetime technical support. It is designed for desktop computers and servers that need to upgrade storage using existing M.2 drives.

Pros

• Converts M.2 NVMe SSDs to U.2 (SFF-8639) interface
• Fits in standard 2.5-inch drive bays
• Backward compatible with earlier PCIe versions
• Includes a two-year warranty

Cons

• Requires a separate M.2 NVMe SSD to function
• Only converts interface, not SATA M.2 drives
• Limited to PCIe NVMe protocol support

Good fit if

• You have spare M.2 NVMe SSDs to reuse
• You need to install an NVMe drive in a 2.5-inch bay
• You want to upgrade server storage cost-effectively

Skip if

• You need a complete storage solution without buying a drive separately
• Your system only supports SATA M.2 drives
• You require a compact solution without extra cabling

Verdict: Mustpoint M.2 to U.2 NVMe Adapter is a practical tool for reusing M.2 drives in systems with 2.5-inch bays. It fits users who need to repurpose existing NVMe SSDs for desktop or server upgrades.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best heatsinks for m 2 SSD
• best network attached storages with m 2 nvme