S Sharkspeed 256GB Gen3 M.2 2230 Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The S Sharkspeed SSD 256gb m 2 2230 alternatives list helps you find drives that match its compact M.2 2230 form factor and PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 interface. This original drive delivers up to 2400 MB/s read and 1800 MB/s write speeds, making it a strong choice for Steam Deck or Surface Pro upgrades. Its small footprint fits devices with limited internal space, while its NVMe protocol ensures fast system response times for gaming and productivity tasks.
You might want a different option if you need more storage capacity, a larger 2280 form factor, or a different interface like SATA III. Some alternatives offer higher capacities or specific warranty terms that better suit your needs. We selected these 6 picks because their specifications overlap with the original, including similar form factors, interfaces, and performance tiers. This guide compares their specs so you can choose the drive that fits your hardware and usage requirements without guessing.
Our top pick: S SHARKSPEED 256GB Gen3 M.2 2230 SSD.
How alternatives compare to S Sharkspeed
S Sharkspeed 256GB Gen3 x4 M.2 2242 SSD
This S Sharkspeed model uses the M.2 2242 form factor instead of the 2230 size in the original. You gain extra length for potentially better thermal management, but it will not fit in slots designed only for 2230 drives like the Steam Deck. It retains the same 256GB capacity and PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 interface. The 2242 size suits compact laptops that require this specific dimension. If your device has a 2242 slot, this offers the same brand reliability with a different physical footprint. You trade the ultra-compact 2230 size for a slightly larger drive that fits different motherboard configurations.
GAMERKING 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
The GAMERKING drive matches the original in form factor and interface, both being 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe PCIe Gen 3.0 drives. It provides similar Gen 3 speeds for handhelds and slim laptops. The main difference lies in brand reputation and specific controller tuning, which are not detailed in the provided specifications. You get an alternative from a different manufacturer that fits the same tight spaces. If you need a 2230 drive for a Steam Deck or similar handheld, this serves as a direct physical and interface replacement. It offers comparable capacity and connectivity without the larger size of standard M.2 drives.
Kingston 128GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
This Kingston drive is also an M.2 2230 NVMe SSD, fitting the same compact slots as the original. However, it offers only 128GB of storage, which is half the capacity of the 256GB S Sharkspeed. The provided data does not list specific read or write speeds, so you cannot confirm if it matches the 2400 MB/s read performance of the original. It is a smaller, lower-capacity option for devices with very tight space constraints. You might choose this if you prioritize the compact 2230 form factor and brand name over raw storage space. It lacks the speed data of the original, making it a less defined performance choice.
KingSpec NX 512GB Gen3 M.2 NVMe SSD
This KingSpec drive uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor, which is significantly larger than the 2230 size of the original. It offers 512GB of storage, double the capacity of the S Sharkspeed model. It retains the PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 interface and 3D NAND flash technology. This drive is suitable for standard desktops and laptops with full-size M.2 slots. You gain more storage space but lose the ability to use it in compact handhelds like the Steam Deck due to its physical size. It is a better choice for users who need more capacity and have space for a longer drive.
KingSpec 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
Another KingSpec option, this drive also uses the M.2 2280 form factor and 512GB capacity, differing from the 2230 256GB original. It features the same PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 interface and 3D NAND technology. The physical size is larger, making it incompatible with compact handhelds that require the 2230 form factor. You get double the storage space compared to the original drive. This option suits standard desktops and laptops where space is not a constraint. It provides a reliable upgrade for users who need more storage and do not require the tiny footprint of the S Sharkspeed 2230 model.
TEAMGROUP MS30 256GB M.2 SATA SSD
This Teamgroup drive uses the M.2 2280 form factor and SATA III interface, which is fundamentally different from the NVMe PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 interface of the original. It offers 256GB of storage, matching the capacity of the S Sharkspeed drive. However, SATA III interfaces are significantly slower than NVMe drives. You will experience much lower read and write speeds compared to the 2400 MB/s read of the original. This drive is suitable for older systems or budget builds that only support SATA. It is not a direct performance replacement but a compatibility option for devices that cannot support NVMe protocols.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
S SHARKSPEED 256GB Gen3 M.2 2230 SSD
Best for: Steam Deck and compact ultrabook upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 3.0X4
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 2400 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 1800 MB/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2230
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
View on Amazon: S SHARKSPEED 256GB Gen3 M.2 2230 SSD Affiliate link
This S Sharkspeed drive is a compact M.2 2230 NVMe SSD built for tight spaces like the Steam Deck or Surface Pro. It uses PCIe Gen 3.0x4 interface with 3D NAND TLC flash. You get sequential read speeds up to 2400 MB/s and write speeds up to 1800 MB/s. It includes ECC and TRIM support for data integrity. The 256GB capacity fits light gaming and office tasks.
Pros
- M.2 2230 form factor fits compact devices
- PCIe Gen 3.0x4 interface for fast transfers
- Read speeds up to 2400 MB/s
- Write speeds up to 1800 MB/s
- Includes 5-year warranty
Cons
- 256GB capacity is lower than larger alternatives
- Limited to PCIe Gen 3.0 speeds
- No included mounting hardware listed
Good fit if
- You need an SSD for Steam Deck or ROG Ally
- You require a small M.2 2230 drive for ultrabooks
- You want reliable data protection with ECC
Skip if
- You need high capacity over 512GB
- You require PCIe Gen 4.0 speeds
- You are installing in a standard 2280 slot
Verdict: S Sharkspeed 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD is a solid upgrade for compact handhelds and ultrabooks. It delivers strong Gen 3 performance in a tiny footprint for users who prioritize space over raw capacity.
S Sharkspeed 256GB Gen3 x4 M.2 2242 SSD
Best for: Compact laptops requiring M.2 2242 NVMe storage
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 3.0x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2242
- Max Read Speed
- 2200MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1800MB/s
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
View on Amazon: S Sharkspeed 256GB Gen3 x4 M.2 2242 SSD Affiliate link
The S Sharkspeed 256GB M.2 2242 NVMe SSD uses PCIe Gen 3.0x4 interface and 3D NAND flash. It delivers read speeds up to 2200MB/s and write speeds up to 1800MB/s. This compact drive fits laptops and desktops requiring the 2242 form factor. It includes ECC technology and TRIM support for data integrity. You get a 5-year warranty with this internal solid state drive.
Pros
- M.2 2242 form factor for compact builds
- PCIe Gen 3.0x4 interface
- 2200MB/s max read speed
- 1800MB/s max write speed
- 5-year warranty included
Cons
- 256GB capacity is smaller than 512GB alternatives
- 2242 size limits compatibility with standard 2280 slots
- No SLC cache mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need an M.2 2242 drive for a specific laptop or mini PC
- You want PCIe Gen 3.0x4 speeds for general desktop use
- You prefer a longer 5-year warranty period
Skip if
- Your motherboard only supports the standard M.2 2280 size
- You require more than 256GB of storage space
- You need SATA III interface compatibility
Verdict: S Sharkspeed 256GB M.2 2242 NVMe fits users with specific 2242 slot requirements who need reliable Gen3 speeds. It suits those prioritizing warranty length over maximum storage capacity.
GAMERKING 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
Best for: Steam Deck and 2230 laptop upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 3.0X4
- Max Read Speed
- up to 2,400MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1,800MB/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2230
- Compatibility
- Laptop
View on Amazon: GAMERKING 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
This GAMERKING drive is a 256GB NVMe SSD in the compact M.2 2230 form factor. It uses PCIe Gen 3.0x4 to deliver sequential read speeds up to 2,400MB/s and write speeds up to 1,800MB/s. The 3D NAND flash memory is designed to be shockproof. You can use this drive in Steam Deck, Surface devices, and laptops that require the 2230 size. It supports Windows TRIM and NCQ for sustained performance.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 2,400MB/s
- Compact M.2 2230 form factor
- PCIe Gen 3.0x4 NVMe interface
- 3D NAND flash memory for durability
Cons
- 256GB capacity is smaller than 512GB alternatives
- No SLC cache mentioned in specifications
- Write speeds are lower than some Gen3 peers
Good fit if
- You need a 2230 SSD for a Steam Deck
- You require PCIe Gen 3.0x4 speeds
- You want a shockproof drive for mobile devices
Skip if
- You need more than 256GB of storage
- You require a larger 2280 form factor
- You want a SATA interface drive
Verdict: GAMERKING 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD offers solid Gen3 speeds in a small package. It fits users who need 2230 drives for handhelds or slim laptops but can accept the lower capacity.
Kingston 128GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
Best for: small handheld gaming devices
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Interface
- PCIe NVMe
- Form Factor
- M.2 2230
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop, Gaming
- Dimensions
- 0.87 × 0.86 × 0.09 inches
View on Amazon: Kingston 128GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
This Kingston drive uses the M.2 2230 form factor, making it compact enough for small laptops, handhelds, or Steam Decks. It connects via PCIe NVMe for standard Gen3 speeds. The 128GB capacity is small, so you should check if it meets your storage needs. It is designed for gaming devices and general computing tasks.
Pros
- M.2 2230 form factor fits small devices
- PCIe NVMe interface for reliable connectivity
- Compact dimensions of 0.87 x 0.86 x 0.09 inches
Cons
- Low 128GB storage capacity
- No listed sequential read/write speeds
- No thermal pad or heatsink included
Good fit if
- You need an SSD for a handheld gaming PC
- You have limited space in a laptop or desktop
- You only need basic storage for light tasks
Skip if
- You require more than 128GB of space
- You need high-speed transfers for large files
- You are building a primary desktop drive
Verdict: Kingston 128GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD is a compact option for handhelds or small laptops. It fits tight spaces but offers limited storage and no speed data.
KingSpec NX 512GB Gen3 M.2 NVMe SSD
Best for: Standard desktops needing Gen3 speeds
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- NVMe Gen3x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 3500 MB/s
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
- NAND Type
- 3D NAND
View on Amazon: KingSpec NX 512GB Gen3 M.2 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The KingSpec NX Series offers 512GB of storage in an M.2 2280 form factor. It uses NVMe Gen3x4 interface technology to reach sequential read speeds up to 3500MB/s. The drive relies on 3D NAND flash memory for data retention. It includes support for S.M.A.R.T, TRIM, and wear leveling features. This internal solid state drive is designed for desktops and laptops that require a standard 2280 size slot.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 3500MB/s
- 512GB storage capacity
- M.2 2280 form factor
- NVMe Gen3x4 interface
- 3D NAND flash memory
Cons
- Limited to Gen3 speeds
- Only 512GB capacity available
- Standard 2280 size may not fit small form factor builds
Good fit if
- You need a standard M.2 2280 drive for a desktop
- You want fast Gen3 read speeds for gaming
- You require 512GB of storage space
Skip if
- You have a laptop requiring M.2 2230 or 2242
- You need PCIe Gen4 performance
- You require more than 512GB capacity
Verdict: The KingSpec NX 512GB NVMe SSD provides reliable Gen3 performance for standard desktops and laptops. It suits users who need a 2280 drive with solid read speeds and adequate storage for everyday tasks.
KingSpec 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
Best for: Standard desktop and laptop upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- M.2 NVMe Gen3x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 2400MB/s
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
- NAND Type
- 3D NAND
View on Amazon: KingSpec 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
This KingSpec drive uses an M.2 2280 form factor with an NVMe Gen3x4 interface. It offers a maximum read speed of 2400MB/s and utilizes 3D NAND flash. The unit supports standard maintenance features like TRIM and S.M.A.R.T. for stable operation on Windows and Linux systems. It provides 512GB of storage in a standard desktop or laptop size.
Pros
- M.2 2280 form factor for standard builds
- NVMe Gen3x4 interface for efficient data transfer
- Maximum read speed up to 2400MB/s
- Uses 3D NAND flash technology
- Includes a 3-year warranty
Cons
- Read speed is lower than Gen3x4 competitors reaching 3500MB/s
- M.2 2280 size is too large for compact 2230 slots
- Does not list an SLC cache for sustained writes
Good fit if
- You need a standard 2280 drive for a desktop or laptop
- You want 512GB of storage capacity
- You require a drive with a 3-year warranty
Skip if
- You are building a compact device requiring a 2230 form factor
- You need maximum Gen3x4 speeds near 3500MB/s
- You require an SSD with an explicit SLC cache
Verdict: KingSpec 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is a solid option for standard desktops and laptops needing reliable 512GB storage. It fits users who prioritize warranty coverage and standard dimensions over peak sequential read speeds.
TEAMGROUP MS30 256GB M.2 SATA SSD
Best for: Standard SATA III upgrades in laptops and desktops
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- SATA III 6Gb/s
- Max Read Speed
- 500 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 400 MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
View on Amazon: TEAMGROUP MS30 256GB M.2 SATA SSD Affiliate link
The Teamgroup MS30 is a 256GB M.2 2280 SSD using the SATA III 6Gb/s interface. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 500 MB/s and write speeds up to 400 MB/s. The drive uses 3D TLC NAND with an SLC cache layer. It supports Intel Smart Response Technology for system acceleration. This internal drive fits laptops and desktops requiring standard SATA connectivity.
Pros
- SATA III 6Gb/s interface for broad compatibility
- Sequential read speed up to 500 MB/s
- Uses 3D TLC NAND with SLC cache
- Supports Intel Smart Response Technology
- Includes 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Slower speeds compared to NVMe PCIe Gen 3.0 drives
- Limited to 256GB capacity in this model
- M.2 2280 form factor may not fit 2230 slots
Good fit if
- You need a reliable SATA SSD for a desktop or laptop
- You want to use Intel Smart Response Technology with an HDD
- You require standard M.2 2280 dimensions for your motherboard
Skip if
- You need NVMe PCIe speeds for high-performance tasks
- Your device only supports the smaller M.2 2230 form factor
- You require more than 256GB of storage in a single drive
Verdict: Teamgroup MS30 256GB SATA III M.2 2280 SSD provides steady SATA III performance for everyday computing. It suits users upgrading older systems or building budget PCs who prioritize compatibility over raw speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | S SHARKSPEED 256GB Gen3 M.2 2230 SSD | S Sharkspeed 256GB Gen3 x4 M.2 2242 SSD | GAMERKING 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD | Kingston 128GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD | KingSpec NX 512GB Gen3 M.2 NVMe SSD | KingSpec 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | TEAMGROUP MS30 256GB M.2 SATA SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 256GB | 256GB | 256GB | 128GB | 512GB | 512GB | 256GB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen 3.0X4 | PCIe Gen 3.0x4 | PCIe Gen 3.0X4 | PCIe NVMe | NVMe Gen3x4 | M.2 NVMe Gen3x4 | SATA III 6Gb/s |
| Form Factor | not stated | M.2 2242 | not stated | not stated | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | not stated |
| Max Read Speed | Up to 2400 MB/s | 2200MB/s | up to 2,400MB/s | not stated | 3500 MB/s | 2400MB/s | 500 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | Up to 1800 MB/s | 1800MB/s | 1,800MB/s | not stated | not stated | not stated | 400 MB/s |
| Cache Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | SLC Cache |
| Compatibility | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop | Laptop, Desktop, Gaming | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop |
| NAND Type | not stated | 3D NAND | not stated | not stated | 3D NAND | 3D NAND | 3D NAND, TLC |
| Size | 256GB | 256GB | 256GB | not stated | 512GB | 512GB | 256GB |
| Dimensions | not stated | not stated | not stated | 0.87 × 0.86 × 0.09 inches | not stated | not stated | 0.87 × 3.15 × 0.14 inches |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 0.35 ounces |
| Color | M.2 2230 PCIe Gen3.0 | M.2 2242 NVME SSD | 2230PCIE3.0 | Black | Black | NE-2280, 2400MB/s | not stated |
| Model | M.2 2230 SSD | not stated | M.2 2230 PCIe 3.0 256GB | e416b1ef-d3af-4430-b90b-cd2742784d1b | 512 gb | 3f18df96-b2f4-46cf-b297-b9c29940122b | TM8PS7256G0C101 |
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Frequently asked questions
Which SSD is the best alternative to the S Sharkspeed 256GB M.2 2230?
The GAMERKING 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD is a strong alternative. It offers solid Gen3 speeds in the same compact package. This drive fits users who need 2230 drives for handhelds or slim laptops. It is a practical choice when you prioritize form factor and reliable performance over maximum storage capacity.
Is there a larger M.2 option if I do not need the 2230 size?
The KingSpec NX 512GB Gen3 M.2 NVMe SSD is a suitable option. It uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor. This drive provides reliable Gen3 performance for standard desktops and laptops. You gain double the storage capacity compared to the 256GB original, making it ideal for users who need more space for everyday tasks.
Can I use a SATA SSD instead of an NVMe drive?
The TEAMGROUP MS30 256GB M.2 SATA SSD allows this. It uses the SATA III interface instead of NVMe. This drive provides steady performance for everyday computing. It suits users upgrading older systems or building budget PCs. You prioritize compatibility and standard M.2 2280 dimensions over the higher speeds of NVMe drives.
What is the smallest capacity available in these alternatives?
The Kingston 128GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD has the smallest capacity. It is designed for small handheld gaming devices. This drive fits tight spaces but offers limited storage. It is a compact option for laptops or handhelds where space is the primary constraint rather than storage volume.
Are there other 256GB drives with the same M.2 2230 form factor?
The S SHARKSPEED 256GB Gen3 M.2 2230 SSD is the reference model. It delivers strong Gen3 performance in a tiny footprint. This drive is a solid upgrade for compact handhelds and ultrabooks. You prioritize space over raw capacity while maintaining reliable NVMe speeds for your system.
Does the KingSpec 512GB NVMe SSD offer better warranty coverage?
The KingSpec 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is noted for warranty coverage. It fits users who prioritize warranty length over peak sequential read speeds. This drive provides reliable 512GB storage for standard desktops and laptops. You get solid performance and adequate storage for everyday tasks in a standard M.2 2280 size.