Samsung PM991a 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Samsung PM991a 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD delivers strong Gen3 speeds in a compact 30mm package. It is ideal for handhelds and thin laptops that need 1TB of storage without taking up much space. If you are looking for samsung 1tb m 2 2230 30mm alternatives, you may want different capacity or form factor options. Some users prefer larger 2280 drives for desktops. Others might need SATA interfaces or higher capacity tiers.
This list includes 6 similar picks that share key specifications with the original drive. We selected these alternatives because their specs overlap with the Samsung PM991a. You will find options with 2TB capacity or standard M.2 sizes. Some picks offer SATA connectivity for older systems. Others provide dual packs for multiple slots. Each option fits specific use cases while maintaining reliable Gen3 performance. You can choose based on your device’s physical slot and storage needs.
How these alternatives compare
TEAMGROUP MP33 2TB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD
The TEAMGROUP MP33 uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor, which is longer than the Samsung PM991a's compact 2230 size. You gain double the storage capacity at 2TB, but you lose the space efficiency needed for handhelds or slim laptops. It still uses PCIe Gen3 x4, so sequential speeds drop to 1800 MB/s. This is lower than the Samsung's 3100 MB/s read speed. You should pick this drive if your device has a standard M.2 slot and you need more room for files. It fits desktops and larger laptops where the extra length is not a problem.
Samsung 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
This Samsung PM991a 1TB is the same model as the original product. It shares the identical M.2 2230 form factor and PCIe Gen3 interface. The specs remain the same, offering 3100 MB/s read speeds in a tiny package. There is no difference in performance or physical dimensions. You would choose this alternative only if it is priced differently or available from a different retailer. For Steam Deck or Surface Pro users, this drive is a direct replacement. It provides the same reliability and compact design as the primary pick.
Fanxiang 2TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD
The Fanxiang S500 Pro uses the M.2 2280 form factor, making it significantly longer than the Samsung PM991a. It offers 2TB of storage, which is double the capacity of the original. Like the Samsung, it uses PCIe Gen3, but it prioritizes capacity over the higher read speeds of the compact drive. It fits standard desktops and laptops with full-size M.2 slots. You should pick this if you need large storage space and have a standard slot. It is not suitable for handhelds or thin laptops that require the 2230 size.
Timetec 1TB 2-Pack PCIe Gen3 NVMe SSD
The Timetec option comes as a 2-pack of 1TB drives, giving you double the total storage of the original. It uses the M.2 2280 form factor, so it is not compatible with devices requiring the 2230 size. It relies on PCIe Gen3 speeds, which are slower than the Samsung PM991a's peak performance. This pack is ideal for systems with multiple M.2 slots. You gain capacity and redundancy but lose the compact form factor. It is a practical choice for desktops or laptops where space allows for standard-sized drives.
TEAMGROUP MS30 2TB SATA M.2 SSD
The TEAMGROUP MS30 uses the SATA III interface instead of PCIe Gen3. This results in significantly lower speeds compared to the Samsung PM991a. It also uses the M.2 2280 form factor, which is longer than the 2230 size. It offers 2TB of storage, doubling the capacity of the original. This drive is for users with older systems that only support SATA speeds. You should choose it if you need large storage in a standard slot and do not require NVMe performance. It is not suitable for modern compact devices.
KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD
The KIOXIA BG4 shares the same M.2 2230 form factor as the Samsung PM991a. It offers 1TB of storage on the PCIe Gen3 interface. This makes it a direct size-compatible alternative for handhelds and thin laptops. It provides similar space efficiency, though specific speed metrics are not listed here. You should pick this if you need a compact drive but prefer a different brand. It fits the same devices as the Samsung, including Steam Deck and ultrabooks. It is a solid choice when the original is unavailable.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Samsung PM991a 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
Best for: compact handhelds and thin laptops
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3 x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2230
- Max Read Speed
- 3100 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 2000 MB/s
- Compatibility
- Laptop
View on Amazon: Samsung PM991a 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
This Samsung drive is a compact 1TB NVMe SSD in the small M.2 2230 form factor. It uses PCIe Gen3 x4 and TLC NAND to deliver sequential reads up to 3100 MB/s and writes up to 2000 MB/s. The thin 2.38mm profile fits tight spaces in laptops, desktops, and handhelds like the Steam Deck or Surface Pro. You get reliable performance in a tiny package.
Pros
- Small M.2 2230 (22mm x 30mm) form factor
- Sequential read speeds up to 3100 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds up to 2000 MB/s
- Uses efficient TLC NAND flash memory
- Compatible with Steam Deck and Surface Pro
Cons
- Limited to PCIe Gen3 x4 interface speeds
- Small 30mm length restricts use to compact devices
- No included heatsink for passive cooling
Good fit if
- You need a 1TB drive for a Steam Deck or Surface Pro
- You are upgrading a laptop with a 2230 slot
- You want high sequential read speeds in a tiny package
Skip if
- You require PCIe Gen4 speeds for maximum throughput
- You need a standard M.2 2280 size for desktops
- You want a drive with a built-in heatsink
Verdict: Samsung PM991a 1TB M.2 2230 offers fast Gen3 speeds in a compact form. It is the right pick for handhelds and thin laptops needing 1TB of storage.
TEAMGROUP MP33 2TB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD
Best for: Users needing 2TB capacity in standard slots
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3x4, NVMe 1.3
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 1,800 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1,500 MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
View on Amazon: TEAMGROUP MP33 2TB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The TEAMGROUP MP33 is a 2TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD using PCIe Gen3x4 and TLC NAND. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 1,800 MB/s and write speeds up to 1,500 MB/s. This drive supports SLC caching to boost performance. It fits standard desktops and laptops. You get double the storage of the 1TB alternatives in this list, making it ideal for large game libraries or media archives.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- 1,800 MB/s max read speed
- 1,500 MB/s max write speed
- SLC caching support
- M.2 2280 form factor
Cons
- Larger 2280 size than 2230 alternatives
- Slower Gen3 speeds than Gen4 drives
- No DRAM cache listed
Good fit if
- You need 2TB of storage space
- You use a standard desktop or laptop
- You want high sequential transfer speeds
Skip if
- You have a compact 2230 slot
- You require PCIe Gen4 speeds
- You need a DRAM cache
Verdict: TEAMGROUP MP33 2TB NVMe SSD offers double the capacity of the 1TB options here. It fits standard desktops and laptops where space allows for the larger 2280 module.
Samsung 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
Best for: Steam Deck and Surface tablet upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 3100 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 2000 MB/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2230
- Compatibility
- Laptop
View on Amazon: Samsung 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
This Samsung drive uses the compact M.2 2230 form factor, making it suitable for devices like the Steam Deck and Surface tablets. It offers sequential read speeds up to 3100 MB/s and write speeds up to 2000 MB/s on a PCIe Gen3 x4 interface. You get 1TB of storage in a small, black package. It fits systems requiring a 30mm length NVMe slot.
Pros
- Compact M.2 2230 30mm size
- Read speeds up to 3100 MB/s
- Write speeds up to 2000 MB/s
- Compatible with Steam Deck and Surface
Cons
- Limited to PCIe Gen3 interface
- Only 1TB capacity available
- No included mounting hardware
Good fit if
- You need an SSD for a Steam Deck
- You are upgrading a Surface tablet
- You require a 2230 form factor drive
Skip if
- You need PCIe Gen4 speeds
- You require more than 1TB storage
- Your device uses M.2 2280 slots
Verdict: Samsung PM991a 1TB M.2 2230 is a compact storage solution for handhelds and tablets. It delivers solid Gen3 performance in a tiny package. You should choose this if your device specifically requires the 2230 size.
Fanxiang 2TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD
Best for: Large capacity storage in standard M.2 slots
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 3500MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 3000MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
View on Amazon: Fanxiang 2TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The Fanxiang S500 Pro is a 2TB M.2 2280 NVMe drive built for high-speed data transfer. It uses PCIe Gen3x4 and 3D TLC NAND with an SLC cache to reach speeds up to 3500MB/s read and 3000MB/s write. It includes graphite heat dissipation stickers to manage thermal performance. This drive suits users needing large storage capacity and fast sequential speeds for desktops or laptops.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity for extensive file storage
- High sequential read speeds up to 3500MB/s
- Includes graphite heat dissipation stickers for thermal control
- Uses 3D TLC NAND with SLC cache technology
Cons
- Larger 2280 form factor does not fit 2230 slots
- No dedicated DRAM cache mentioned in specifications
- Brand is less established than major OEM manufacturers
Good fit if
- You need 2TB of storage space for games or media
- You are upgrading a desktop or laptop with a standard M.2 slot
- You want high sequential read and write speeds
Skip if
- You are using a device that only supports M.2 2230 form factors
- You require PCIe Gen4 speeds for maximum performance
- You prefer drives from major OEM brands like Samsung or Kioxia
Verdict: Fanxiang S500 Pro 2TB NVMe SSD delivers strong sequential speeds and ample storage for users with standard M.2 2280 slots. It is a practical option for desktops and laptops where capacity and speed matter more than brand prestige.
Timetec 1TB 2-Pack PCIe Gen3 NVMe SSD
Best for: Users needing double storage capacity
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3x4, NVMe 1.3
- 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 1TB 2-Pack PCIe Gen3 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
You get two 1TB drives in this package. They use M.2 2280 form factors with PCIe Gen3x4 interfaces. Sequential read speeds reach 2,000MB/s. Write speeds hit 1,600MB/s. The NAND type is TLC with SLC Cache. This setup suits users needing extra storage capacity for desktops or laptops. It offers high endurance with a 600TBW rating per drive.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 2,000MB/s
- Includes two 1TB drives for double capacity
- High endurance rating of 600TBW per drive
- Supports NVMe 1.3 protocol
Cons
- Larger M.2 2280 form factor limits compatibility with compact devices
- PCIe Gen3 interface is slower than newer Gen4 drives
- Requires separate installation for each drive
Good fit if
- You need double the storage capacity in one purchase
- You have a desktop or laptop with two available M.2 2280 slots
- You want high endurance for heavy write workloads
Skip if
- You are building a small form factor PC with limited space
- You require the fastest PCIe Gen4 speeds available
- You only need a single drive for your system
Verdict: Timetec 2TB NVMe SSD 2-Pack provides double the storage for users with multiple M.2 slots. It is ideal for those prioritizing capacity and endurance over the latest interface speeds.
TEAMGROUP MS30 2TB SATA M.2 SSD
Best for: Standard M.2 2280 SATA upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- SATA III 6Gb/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 550 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 500 MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
View on Amazon: TEAMGROUP MS30 2TB SATA M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The Teamgroup MS30 is a 2TB M.2 2280 SSD using the SATA III 6Gb/s interface. It delivers read speeds up to 550 MB/s and write speeds up to 500 MB/s. This drive uses 3D TLC NAND with an SLC cache. It fits standard M.2 slots in laptops and desktops. You get a 2TB capacity in a familiar 2280 form factor, making it a practical upgrade for systems that do not support faster NVMe connections.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- SATA III 6Gb/s interface
- Read speeds up to 550 MB/s
- Write speeds up to 500 MB/s
- Uses 3D TLC NAND with SLC cache
Cons
- SATA III interface is slower than NVMe options
- M.2 2280 form factor is larger than 2230
- No advanced features like hardware encryption listed
Good fit if
- You need a high-capacity drive for a laptop or desktop
- Your system only supports SATA III over M.2
- You want a reliable 2TB option without NVMe costs
Skip if
- You require the fastest possible NVMe transfer speeds
- Your device only accepts M.2 2230 drives
- You are building a compact handheld gaming PC
Verdict: Teamgroup MS30 2TB SATA SSD offers solid 2TB storage for standard M.2 slots. It suits users upgrading older laptops or desktops that rely on SATA speeds rather than PCIe bandwidth.
KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD
Best for: Steam Deck and ultrabook 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 1TB NVMe drive built for M.2 2230 slots. It offers sequential read speeds up to 2300 MB/s and write speeds up to 1800 MB/s. The single-sided design helps manage heat during operation. It works with systems like Steam Deck and ultrabooks that require the 30mm form factor. You get reliable PCIe Gen3 x4 performance in a compact package.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds reach 2300 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds reach 1800 MB/s
- Single-sided layout for better heat management
- Compatible with M.2 2230 slots
Cons
- Limited to PCIe Gen3 interface
- Smaller 2230 form factor restricts desktop use
- Lower write speed than 2280 alternatives
Good fit if
- You need an SSD for a Steam Deck
- You are upgrading an ultrabook with a 2230 slot
- You require a single-sided drive for thin laptops
Skip if
- You need maximum PCIe Gen4 speeds
- Your device only accepts M.2 2280 drives
- You need high sequential write performance for large files
Verdict: Kioxia BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD delivers solid Gen3 speeds for compact devices. It fits users who prioritize space efficiency over raw bandwidth. This drive is ideal for handhelds and thin laptops.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Samsung PM991a 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD | TEAMGROUP MP33 2TB PCIe Gen3 M.2 SSD | Samsung 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD | Fanxiang 2TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD | Timetec 1TB 2-Pack PCIe Gen3 NVMe SSD | TEAMGROUP MS30 2TB SATA M.2 SSD | KIOXIA BG4 1TB M.2 2230 SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 1TB | 2TB | 1TB | 2TB | 1TB | 2TB | 1TB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen3 x4 | PCIe Gen3x4, NVMe 1.3 | NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 | PCIe Gen3x4 | PCIe Gen3x4, NVMe 1.3 | SATA III 6Gb/s | PCIe Gen3 x4 |
| Form Factor | M.2 2230 | M.2 2280 | not stated | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | not stated |
| Max Read Speed | 3100 MB/s | 1,800 MB/s | Up to 3100 MB/s | 3500MB/s | Up to 2,000MB/s | Up to 550 MB/s | 2300 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 2000 MB/s | 1,500 MB/s | Up to 2000 MB/s | 3000MB/s | Up to 1,600MB/s | Up to 500 MB/s | 1800 MB/s |
| Cache Type | not stated | SLC Cache | not stated | SLC Cache | SLC Cache | SLC Cache | not stated |
| Cooling | not stated | not stated | not stated | graphite heat dissipation stickers | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Compatibility | Laptop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop |
| NAND Type | TLC | 3D NAND, TLC | not stated | 3D NAND, TLC | 3D NAND, TLC | 3D NAND, TLC | not stated |
| Size | 1TB 30mm | 2TB | 1TB SSD | 2TB | 1TB (2 pack) | 2TB | not stated |
| Dimensions | 0.87 × 0.87 × 0.09 inches | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.15 inches | 1.2 × 0.9 × 0.1 inches | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.08 inches | not stated | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.14 inches | 1.18 × 0.86 × 0.1 inches |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | not stated | 0.96 ounces | not stated | 0.35 ounces | not stated |
| Color | Black | Gen3x4 Read 1,800MB/s | Black | black | not stated | 2280 | not stated |
| Model | MZ9LQ1T0HBLB | TM8FP6002T0C101 | MZ9LQ1T0HBLB | S500 Pro | 35TTTNGE4NVME | TM8PS7002T0C101 | KBG40ZNS1T02 |
If you want liquid cooling for compact drives, evaluate barrow water cooling block m 2 alternatives based on published dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a 2280 SSD in place of the Samsung PM991a 2230?
No, you cannot directly swap them. The Samsung PM991a uses the compact M.2 2230 form factor, which measures 30mm in length. A 2280 drive is significantly longer at 80mm. You would need a device with a longer M.2 slot, such as a standard desktop or larger laptop, to accommodate the 2280 size.
Is the Samsung PM991a compatible with the Steam Deck?
Yes, this drive is suitable for Steam Deck upgrades. It features the M.2 2230 form factor, which matches the handheld console's compact storage bay. The PCIe 3.0 interface provides adequate Gen3 speeds for gaming. You should ensure your specific device supports the 1TB capacity and 2230 dimensions.
What is the difference between the Samsung PM991a and the Kioxia BG4?
Both drives share the M.2 2230 form factor and PCIe 3.0 interface, making them ideal for compact devices. The Samsung PM991a is explicitly noted for handhelds and thin laptops. The Kioxia BG4 also targets ultrabooks and handhelds. They are similar in size and interface, though specific performance metrics may vary by model.
Does the TEAMGROUP MP33 support SATA III interfaces?
No, the TEAMGROUP MP33 is a PCIe NVMe drive. It uses the PCIe Gen3 interface for data transfer, which offers higher bandwidth than SATA III. If you require a SATA M.2 SSD, you should look at the TEAMGROUP MS30 instead. The MP33 is designed for systems supporting NVMe protocols.
Can I install two Timetec 1TB SSDs in one system?
Yes, if your motherboard has multiple M.2 slots. The Timetec product is sold as a 2-pack, providing two 1TB drives. Each unit uses the M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe Gen3 interface. This setup doubles your storage capacity while maintaining standard compatibility for desktops and laptops with available slots.
Is the Fanxiang S500 Pro a good choice for desktops?
Yes, it is a practical option for desktops. It uses the M.2 2280 form factor, which fits standard expansion slots. The drive offers 2TB capacity and PCIe 3.0 speeds. It is designed for users who prioritize capacity and speed in larger systems rather than compact handheld devices.
What NAND type does the Samsung PM991a use?
The Samsung PM991a uses TLC NAND. This type of flash memory balances performance and cost effectively. It is paired with a PCIe 3.0 interface to deliver solid Gen3 speeds. This configuration supports reliable data storage in compact form factors like the 2230 size.