Looking Beyond the KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD offers reliable PCIe Gen3 x4 performance in a compact 30mm single-sided form factor. If you are looking for kioxia SSD 1tb bg4 m 2 alternatives, you might need different storage capacities or a larger physical size for your specific device. This drive works well for Steam Deck, Surface Tablet, and ultrabook upgrades where space is tight. Its single-sided design helps manage heat during cool operation, which is practical for handhelds and thin laptops.
Some users prefer more capacity, faster Gen4 speeds, or standard 2280 dimensions for desktops and gaming systems. The alternatives in this list were chosen because their specs overlap with the original, covering various form factors like M.2 2280 and interfaces like PCIe 4.0. You can find options with higher read speeds or different warranty terms depending on your needs. Whether you need a budget entry-level drive or a premium upgrade, these 6 alternatives provide practical choices based on published specifications rather than marketing claims.
How each alternative compares
KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD
This is the KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD. It serves as the baseline for this comparison. You are looking at alternatives to this specific drive, so this entry is excluded from the comparative analysis. The original product offers PCIe Gen3 x4 speeds up to 2300 MB/s in a compact 30mm form factor. It is designed for devices like Steam Deck and ultrabooks that require the 2230 size. The following items represent different options that may better suit your needs depending on capacity, physical dimensions, or interface generation.
Addlink S70 Lite 1TB Gen3 NVMe SSD
The Addlink S70 Lite 1TB Gen3 NVMe SSD differs primarily in physical dimensions. It uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor, measuring 80mm in length, whereas the KIOXIA BG4 is a compact 30mm 2230 drive. This makes the Addlink incompatible with handhelds and small tablets that strictly require the 2230 slot. However, it offers higher sequential read speeds of up to 3,200 MB/s, compared to the KIOXIA’s 2,300 MB/s. You should choose this if you have a desktop or full-size laptop with a standard 2280 slot and want faster data transfer rates for gaming or large file transfers.
SK Hynix 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD
The SK Hynix 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD also uses the M.2 2280 form factor, making it physically larger than the 30mm KIOXIA BG4. You must ensure your device supports the 2280 size before considering this drive. The primary trade-off is capacity; this SK Hynix model provides 512GB, which is half the 1TB capacity of the KIOXIA. It is designed for standard laptops and desktops. If you do not need the full 1TB storage space and your system requires the larger 80mm form factor, this drive offers a reliable PCIe Gen3 alternative with strong read performance for everyday computing tasks.
TEAMGROUP MP33 256GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD
The TEAMGROUP MP33 256GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD is another M.2 2280 drive, meaning it is significantly longer than the 30mm KIOXIA BG4. It is not suitable for compact handhelds or ultrabooks. The capacity is much lower at 256GB, compared to the 1TB offered by the KIOXIA. This drive is intended for budget upgrades in laptops or desktops where space is not an issue but cost is a priority. It uses TLC NAND with SLC Cache for stability. You should pick this alternative only if you have a standard 2280 slot and are willing to sacrifice capacity for a more affordable entry-level storage solution.
Timetec 512GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD
The Timetec 512GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD uses the M.2 2280 form factor, which is incompatible with the 2230 slot used by the KIOXIA BG4. It offers 512GB of storage, which is half the capacity of the KIOXIA model. This drive utilizes 3D NAND with SLC Cache for improved stability during sustained writes. It is designed for standard laptops and desktops. You should consider this alternative if your system requires the larger 80mm size and you prioritize warranty coverage and write stability over maximum storage capacity. It is a practical choice for users who do not need the full 1TB space.
Acclamator 256GB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD
The Acclamator 256GB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD is an M.2 2280 drive, making it physically larger than the compact 30mm KIOXIA BG4. It is not suitable for handhelds or small tablets. The capacity is only 256GB, which is significantly less than the 1TB offered by the KIOXIA. This drive uses 3D NAND and is aimed at basic storage upgrades for light users. You should choose this if you have a standard desktop or laptop with a 2280 slot and need a low-capacity, affordable solution for everyday computing. It lacks the high capacity and compact form factor of the original product.
Micron 2450 1TB M.2 2230 SSD
The Micron 2450 1TB M.2 2230 SSD matches the KIOXIA BG4 in physical dimensions, using the same 30mm 2230 form factor. This makes it a direct size-compatible alternative for handhelds and consoles. The major difference is the interface; the Micron drive uses PCIe Gen4, while the KIOXIA uses Gen3. This allows the Micron to deliver higher theoretical speeds, suitable for PS5 or Steam Deck upgrades. You should pick this if your device supports PCIe Gen4 and you need the same 1TB capacity in a compact size. It is the better choice for next-generation performance in compatible 2230 slots.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD
Best for: compact M.2 2230 handheld and tablet upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3 x4
- Max Read Speed
- 2300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1800 MB/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2230
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
View on Amazon: KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD Affiliate link
The KIOXIA BG4 is a compact M.2 2230 NVMe solid state drive offering 1TB of storage over a PCIe Gen3 x4 interface. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 2300 MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 1800 MB/s with a single-sided design. This drive suits you if you need to upgrade internal storage inside compact host devices like the Steam Deck, Surface tablets, or compatible ultrabooks requiring a 30mm drive.
Pros
- Compact M.2 2230 form factor measuring 30mm in length
- Sequential read up to 2300 MB/s and write up to 1800 MB/s
- Single-sided design for cooler operation
- Random read up to 390K IOPS and write up to 200K IOPS
Cons
- Operates on PCIe Gen3 interface instead of newer Gen4
- Sequential throughput tops out below full Gen3 x4 ceiling
Good fit if
- You need a 1TB drive that fits a compact M.2 2230 installation slot.
- You want a single-sided NVMe SSD for a Steam Deck or Surface tablet.
Skip if
- You require PCIe Gen4 transfer rates for your system.
- You have space to fit standard full-length M.2 2280 solid state drives.
Verdict: KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD delivers reliable PCIe Gen3 x4 performance in a compact 30mm single-sided form factor. It provides a straightforward 1TB capacity upgrade for compatible handhelds, tablets, and laptops.
Addlink S70 Lite 1TB Gen3 NVMe SSD
Best for: full-size Gen3 M.2 2280 gaming systems
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 3200MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 2600MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC caching
View on Amazon: Addlink S70 Lite 1TB Gen3 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The Addlink S70 Lite 1TB is a PCIe Gen3x4 internal solid state drive built on the standard M.2 2280 form factor. It uses 3D NAND flash with SLC caching, delivering sequential read speeds up to 3,200 MB/s and write speeds up to 2,600 MB/s. This suits you if your system accommodates a full-length 80mm drive and you want reliable Gen3 speeds backed by a 5-year warranty for your desktop or laptop.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds reach up to 3,200 MB/s and writes up to 2,600 MB/s
- Uses 3D NAND flash paired with SLC caching
- Comes with a 5-year limited warranty
- Designed to run without an attached heatsink
Cons
- Full-length M.2 2280 form factor does not fit compact 2230 bays
- Interface capped at PCIe Gen3x4 transfer rates
Good fit if
- You have an M.2 slot that fits standard 80mm (2280) drives.
- You want Gen3 read performance reaching up to 3,200 MB/s.
- You want five years of manufacturer warranty protection.
Skip if
- You need a compact 30mm (2230) drive for a handheld console.
- You require the higher transfer bandwidth of PCIe Gen4.
Verdict: Addlink S70 Lite 1TB M.2 2280 SSD delivers reliable PCIe Gen3 speeds up to 3,200 MB/s and long warranty coverage for mainstream setups. It works well if your computer accepts standard 80mm hardware rather than compact 2230 cards.
SK Hynix 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD
Best for: standard M.2 2280 laptops and desktops
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3 x4
- Max Read Speed
- 3400 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 2500 MB/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
View on Amazon: SK Hynix 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The SK Hynix PC601 is a 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe drive built for laptops and desktops. It uses a PCIe Gen3 x4 interface to deliver sequential read speeds up to 3400 MB/s and write speeds up to 2500 MB/s. This model suits users who need reliable performance in a standard form factor. It offers a solid balance of speed and capacity for everyday computing tasks.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 3400 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds up to 2500 MB/s
- Random read IOPS up to 390K
- Random write IOPS up to 420K
Cons
- 512GB capacity is half the 1TB found in the top pick
- Slower write speeds compared to PCIe Gen4 alternatives
- Smaller capacity than the 1TB Micron option
Good fit if
- You need a standard M.2 2280 drive for a laptop or desktop
- You prioritize high sequential read speeds for general use
- You want a proven PCIe Gen3 x4 interface
Skip if
- You require 1TB or more storage capacity
- You need the maximum possible write speeds for heavy transfers
- You are building a system that requires M.2 2230 form factor
Verdict: SK Hynix 512GB PC601 M.2 2280 NVMe delivers strong read performance for users who do not need the largest storage capacity. It is a practical choice for standard desktops and laptops that fit the 2280 size.
TEAMGROUP MP33 256GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD
Best for: Budget laptops and light desktop upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3x4
- Max Read Speed
- 1600 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1000 MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
View on Amazon: TEAMGROUP MP33 256GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The TEAMGROUP MP33 is a 256GB M.2 2280 NVMe drive using PCIe Gen3x4 and 3D TLC NAND. It features an SLC cache and delivers read speeds up to 1600 MB/s and write speeds up to 1000 MB/s. This compact internal SSD suits laptops and desktops needing reliable storage for everyday tasks, gaming, or light editing. It offers a practical upgrade path for systems with M.2 slots.
Pros
- 256GB storage capacity
- PCIe Gen3x4 interface
- SLC cache technology
- 1600 MB/s max read speed
Cons
- 256GB capacity is small compared to 1TB alternatives
- Lower write speed than Gen4 drives
- No DRAM cache mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a budget-friendly M.2 2280 SSD for a laptop
- You want a reliable drive for light gaming or office work
- You are upgrading an older system with PCIe Gen3 support
Skip if
- You require 1TB or more storage space
- You need high-speed write performance for heavy video editing
- You are building a new PC with PCIe Gen4 slots
Verdict: TEAMGROUP MP33 256GB NVMe SSD is a solid entry-level choice for users who prioritize cost over capacity. It fits perfectly in compact laptops or desktops needing a straightforward storage boost without complex features.
Timetec 512GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD
Best for: Users needing 512GB with strong warranty
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- NVMe PCIe Gen3x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 2,000MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 1,600MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
View on Amazon: Timetec 512GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The Timetec 512GB NVMe SSD uses M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe Gen3x4 interface. It offers sequential read speeds up to 2,000MB/s and write speeds up to 1,600MB/s. The drive includes SLC Cache technology to boost performance. It supports NVMe 1.3 and features ECC for data integrity. This 512GB capacity makes it a solid option for laptops and desktops needing reliable storage without the bulk of larger drives.
Pros
- Sequential read speed up to 2,000MB/s
- Sequential write speed up to 1,600MB/s
- SLC Cache technology for performance boost
- ECC and LDPC error correction
- Five years limited warranty
Cons
- Smaller 512GB capacity compared to 1TB alternatives
- Older PCIe Gen3x4 interface
- No included mounting screws or brackets
Good fit if
- You need a reliable 512GB drive for a laptop or desktop
- You want SLC Cache for better sustained writes
- You prefer a drive with a five-year warranty
Skip if
- You require 1TB or more storage space
- You need the latest PCIe Gen4 speeds
- You are installing in an M.2 2230 slot
Verdict: Timetec 512GB NVMe SSD is a practical choice for users who prioritize a five-year warranty and SLC Cache stability over raw capacity or next-gen speeds.
Acclamator 256GB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD
Best for: basic storage upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 1800MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC caching
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
View on Amazon: Acclamator 256GB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The Acclamator 256GB SSD uses M.2 2280 form factor with PCIe Gen3x4 interface. It delivers read speeds up to 1800MB/s. It relies on 3D TLC NAND with SLC caching. This drive suits you if you need basic storage for older laptops or desktops. It is not ideal for high-speed modern gaming or large file transfers.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 1800MB/s
- M.2 2280 form factor
- PCIe Gen3x4 interface
- 3D TLC NAND with SLC caching
Cons
- Low 256GB capacity
- Slower Gen3 interface
- No DRAM cache listed
Good fit if
- You need a budget drive for basic tasks
- You have an older laptop or desktop
- You want M.2 2280 compatibility
Skip if
- You need high capacity storage
- You require PCIe Gen4 speeds
- You edit large video files
Verdict: Acclamator 256GB NVMe SSD offers basic performance for light users. It fits you if you only need small, affordable storage for everyday computing.
Micron 2450 1TB M.2 2230 SSD
Best for: Steam Deck and PS5 upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0 Gen4 x4
- Max Read Speed
- 3500 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 3000 MB/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2230
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop, PS5
View on Amazon: Micron 2450 1TB M.2 2230 SSD Affiliate link
The Micron 2450 is a 1TB NVMe drive in the compact M.2 2230 form factor. It uses PCIe 4.0 x4 for speeds up to 3500 MB/s read and 3000 MB/s write. This makes it suitable for Steam Deck, Surface devices, and PS5. It fits systems requiring a 30mm length drive. You get reliable performance in a small footprint.
Pros
- 1TB storage capacity
- PCIe 4.0 x4 interface
- Up to 3500 MB/s sequential read speed
- Up to 3000 MB/s sequential write speed
- Compatible with PS5 and Steam Deck
Cons
- M.2 2230 size limits compatibility with standard 2280 slots
- No included software management tools listed
- No active cooling or heatsink included
Good fit if
- You need a 1TB drive for Steam Deck or Surface devices
- You require PCIe 4.0 speeds in a compact 2230 form factor
- You are upgrading a PS5 with a compatible M.2 slot
Skip if
- You only have M.2 2280 slots available
- You need a drive with an included heatsink
- You prefer PCIe 3.0 drives for lower power consumption
Verdict: Micron 2450 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD delivers high-speed PCIe 4.0 performance in a compact size for handhelds and consoles.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD | Addlink S70 Lite 1TB Gen3 NVMe SSD | SK Hynix 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD | TEAMGROUP MP33 256GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD | Timetec 512GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 SSD | Acclamator 256GB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD | Micron 2450 1TB M.2 2230 SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 1TB | 1TB | 512GB | 256GB | 512GB | 256GB | 1TB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen3 x4 | PCIe Gen3x4 | PCIe Gen3 x4 | PCIe Gen3x4 | NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 | PCIe Gen3x4 | PCIe 4.0 Gen4 x4 |
| Form Factor | not stated | M.2 2280 | not stated | not stated | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | not stated |
| Max Read Speed | 2300 MB/s | Up to 3200MB/s | 3400 MB/s | 1600 MB/s | Up to 2,000MB/s | 1800MB/s | 3500 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 1800 MB/s | 2600MB/s | 2500 MB/s | 1000 MB/s | Up to 1,600MB/s | not stated | 3000 MB/s |
| Cache Type | not stated | SLC caching | not stated | SLC Cache | SLC Cache | SLC caching | not stated |
| Compatibility | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop, Gaming | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop, PS5 |
| NAND Type | not stated | 3D NAND | not stated | 3D NAND, TLC | 3D NAND | 3D NAND | not stated |
| Size | not stated | 1TB | not stated | 256GB | 512GB | 256GB | not stated |
| Dimensions | 1.18 × 0.86 × 0.1 inches | 3.2 × 0.8 × 0.4 inches | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.12 inches | 23.6 × 23.6 × 33.5 inches | not stated | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.12 inches | 1.18 × 0.86 × 0.1 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 0.7 ounces | not stated | not stated | 0.63 ounces | 0.35 ounces | not stated |
| Model | KBG40ZNS1T02 | ad1TBS70M2P | HFS512GD9TNG 0V4RWG V4RWG | TM8FP6256G0C101 | MK03-512GB-M2 | N20-256GB | MTFDKBK1T0TFK |
| Color | not stated | S70 Lite | Black | Multicoloured | PCIe Gen3 | not stated | Black |
To prevent thermal throttling, you can compare clearance specifications for the best heatsinks for m 2 SSD.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a PCIe 4.0 alternative in this list?
Yes. The Micron 2450 1TB M.2 2230 SSD supports PCIe 4.0. It shares the same compact 2230 form factor as the KIOXIA BG4. This makes it suitable for modern handhelds and consoles like the Steam Deck or PS5. You get higher bandwidth potential if your system supports Gen4. It remains a single-sided drive for easy installation.
Can I use these drives in a PS5?
The Micron 2450 1TB M.2 2230 SSD lists PS5 compatibility. Its compact 2230 size fits handhelds and potentially specific console slots. Other drives like the Addlink S70 Lite use the standard M.2 2280 form factor. You must check your console manual to confirm which physical size the system accepts before purchasing.
What is the difference between M.2 2230 and 2280?
The number refers to the physical dimensions in millimeters. The KIOXIA BG4 uses the 2230 format, measuring 30mm in length. Alternatives like the Addlink S70 Lite use the 2280 format, measuring 80mm in length. You need the 2230 drive for compact handhelds. You need the 2280 drive for standard desktops and most laptops.
Which drive offers the most storage capacity?
The KIOXIA BG4 1TB and Micron 2450 1TB offer the highest capacity at 1TB. The SK Hynix 512GB and Timetec 512GB provide 512GB. The Addlink S70 Lite also comes in a 1TB size. The TEAMGROUP MP33 and Acclamator drives offer 256GB. Choose based on your specific space and file requirements.
Do these SSDs include DRAM cache?
The provided data does not list DRAM cache specifications for any drive. The TEAMGROUP MP33 and Timetec 512GB mention SLC Cache. This is a portion of the NAND used to speed up writes. You should verify detailed controller specifications in the manufacturer datasheets if DRAM is critical for your workflow.
Are these drives compatible with desktop motherboards?
Yes. Most listed drives, including the Addlink S70 Lite and SK Hynix 512GB, list desktop compatibility. They use the standard M.2 2280 form factor. The KIOXIA BG4 and Micron 2450 use M.2 2230. You need an adapter or a motherboard with a 2230 slot for the smaller drives. Check your motherboard manual for supported lengths.
Which alternative is best for gaming laptops?
The Addlink S70 Lite 1TB Gen3 NVMe SSD is labeled for gaming systems. It uses the standard M.2 2280 size found in most gaming laptops. It delivers reliable PCIe Gen3 speeds. The SK Hynix 512GB is also suitable for standard laptops. Ensure your laptop has an available M.2 slot that matches the drive size.