Looking Beyond the Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Transcend 120GB MTS420S M.2 SATA SSD delivers reliable performance in a compact 2242 form factor. It uses SATA III 6GB/s interface speeds with SLC caching for consistent data handling. This drive suits users with space-constrained devices who need standard SATA compatibility. However, you might look for transcend 120gb mts420s m 2 sata alternatives if your system requires a different physical size or higher capacity. Some devices only accept the longer 2280 M.2 modules, while others may need the traditional 2.5-inch SATA connection. You may also prefer more storage for your operating system and applications.
The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original drive’s core features. Each option maintains SATA III connectivity and includes SLC cache technology for improved write performance. You can find M.2 2280 drives for standard laptops, or 2.5-inch models for desktops and consoles. These selections cover various storage capacities, ranging from 120GB to 512GB. This allows you to match the drive to your specific hardware constraints and storage needs without compromising on the essential SATA interface performance you expect.
Our top pick: Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD.
Comparing these SATA SSD options
Timetec 256GB M.2 SATA III SSD
The Timetec 256GB M.2 SATA SSD uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor, making it incompatible with the Transcend’s 2242 slot. You gain double the storage capacity and a larger physical footprint. It relies on 3D NAND with SLC caching for consistent performance. This drive is designed for standard laptop upgrades where space allows for the longer 80mm length. If your device supports the 2280 size, you get more room for data without sacrificing SATA III reliability. The trade-off is the physical size difference, which matters only if your chassis requires the compact 42mm profile.
TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 256GB SATA SSD
The TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z is a 2.5-inch drive, which is physically much larger than the Transcend M.2 unit. It offers 256GB of storage, providing more capacity than the 120GB model. You must use a SATA data cable and power connector rather than a direct motherboard slot. It uses 3D TLC NAND with SLC caching. This option suits desktops or laptops with standard drive bays. You sacrifice the compactness and direct slot integration of the M.2 2242 form factor for a familiar, versatile drive that works in almost any system with a SATA port.
Fikwot 256GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD
The Fikwot 256GB M.2 SATA SSD also uses the M.2 2280 form factor, so it does not fit the Transcend’s 2242 slot. You receive twice the storage capacity for your system. It utilizes 3D TLC NAND with SLC caching to manage data efficiently. This drive is intended for standard M.2 slots in laptops or mini PCs. The primary difference is the physical length and capacity. If your device supports the 2280 size, you get more storage space. However, you cannot use this drive in systems that strictly require the shorter 2242 form factor found in the original Transcend model.
Transcend 120GB M.2 SATA SSD
The second Transcend model is a 120GB M.2 SATA SSD, matching the storage capacity of the original. However, it uses the M.2 2280 form factor instead of 2242. This means it is longer and will not fit in the same slot. It retains the SATA III interface and SLC caching for similar performance characteristics. You choose this alternative if your device supports the standard 2280 length but you need the same 120GB capacity. The key difference is physical dimensions. You gain compatibility with standard slots but lose the ability to install it in compact 2242 spaces.
Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
The Addlink S20 is a 512GB 2.5-inch SATA SSD, which is significantly larger than the Transcend M.2 drive. You get more than four times the storage capacity. It uses 3D NAND with SLC caching for reliable data handling. This drive requires a SATA data cable and power connection, unlike the direct slot integration of the M.2 model. It is ideal for PS4s or desktops with standard drive bays. You trade the compact, slot-mounted design for substantial storage space and versatility. This option is best if you have available drive bays and need more capacity than the original provides.
Silicon Power A55 128GB M.2 SATA SSD
The Silicon Power A55 is a 128GB M.2 SATA SSD, offering slightly more capacity than the Transcend 120GB model. It uses the M.2 2280 form factor, so it is not compatible with the 2242 slot. It features SLC caching and a SATA III interface for consistent performance. This drive fits in standard M.2 slots in ultrabooks and mini PCs. You gain a small amount of extra storage and compatibility with standard slots. The trade-off is the inability to use it in devices requiring the shorter 2242 form factor. It is a good alternative if your system supports the longer 2280 size.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD Best overall | compact legacy M.2 2242 slots | Check price of Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD on Amazon |
| 2 | Timetec 256GB M.2 SATA III SSD Also great | Standard M.2 2280 laptop upgrades | Check price of Timetec 256GB M.2 SATA III SSD on Amazon |
| 3 | TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 256GB SATA SSD Also great | Standard 2.5-inch SATA storage upgrades | Check price of TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 256GB SATA SSD on Amazon |
| 4 | Fikwot 256GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD Also great | budget M.2 SATA laptop upgrades | Check price of Fikwot 256GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD on Amazon |
| 5 | Transcend 120GB M.2 SATA SSD Best budget | Standard 2280 SATA upgrades | Check price of Transcend 120GB M.2 SATA SSD on Amazon |
| 6 | Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD Best premium | high-capacity 2.5-inch SATA drive upgrades | Check price of Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD on Amazon |
| 7 | Silicon Power A55 128GB M.2 SATA SSD | compact M.2 2280 upgrades | Check price of Silicon Power A55 128GB M.2 SATA SSD on Amazon |
Our 7 picks
Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD
Best for: compact legacy M.2 2242 slots
- Storage Capacity
- 120GB
- Interface
- SATA III 6GB/s
- Max Read Speed
- 560MB/sec
- Max Write Speed
- 500MB/sec
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2242
View on Amazon: Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD Affiliate link
This Transcend drive offers 120GB of storage in a compact M.2 2242 form factor. It uses SATA III 6Gb/s with read speeds up to 560MB/sec and write speeds up to 500MB/sec. The unit includes SLC caching for performance boosts. It supports Trim, S.M.A.R.T., and NCQ commands. This SSD suits users needing small footprint storage for older or compact systems.
Pros
- Compact M.2 2242 size fits tight spaces
- SATA III 6Gb/s interface ensures broad compatibility
- Read speeds up to 560MB/sec
- SLC Cache improves burst performance
Cons
- 120GB capacity is smaller than most alternatives
- 2242 form factor limits use in 2280 slots
- No NVMe speeds available
Good fit if
- You need an M.2 2242 drive for a compact laptop
- You require SATA III compatibility for older motherboards
- You want a small SSD for basic storage tasks
Skip if
- You need more than 120GB of storage
- Your system only supports M.2 2280 drives
- You require NVMe PCIe speeds
Verdict: Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SSD provides reliable SATA III performance in a small package. It fits users with space-constrained devices who do not need high capacity.
Timetec 256GB M.2 SATA III SSD
Best for: Standard M.2 2280 laptop upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- SATA III 6Gb/s
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 550MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- Up to 500MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
View on Amazon: Timetec 256GB M.2 SATA III SSD Affiliate link
This Timetec drive uses 3D NAND TLC with an SLC cache to deliver sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 500MB/s. It fits the standard M.2 2280 form factor and supports SATA III 6Gb/s. You get 128TBW endurance and a 1,500,000-hour MTBF rating. It is a solid upgrade for laptops and desktops needing reliable storage without the bulk of a 2.5-inch drive.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s
- SLC cache technology for performance boost
- 128TBW endurance rating
- 1,500,000 hours MTBF reliability
- Standard M.2 2280 form factor
Cons
- Write speed of 500MB/s is lower than read speed
- Only includes the SSD, no cables or screws
- Three-year limited warranty is shorter than some competitors
Good fit if
- You need a standard M.2 2280 drive for a laptop
- You want 3D NAND TLC with SLC caching
- You prioritize high endurance ratings
Skip if
- You require a smaller M.2 2242 form factor
- You need PCIe NVMe speeds
- You want a drive that includes mounting hardware
Verdict: Timetec 256GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD offers strong sequential speeds and high endurance for users upgrading older laptops with standard M.2 slots. It suits those who value reliability metrics over maximum write throughput.
TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 256GB SATA SSD
Best for: Standard 2.5-inch SATA storage upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5 Inch
- Max Read Speed
- 520 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 450 MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
View on Amazon: TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 256GB SATA SSD Affiliate link
The TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z is a 2.5-inch SATA III drive offering 256GB of storage. It uses 3D NAND TLC with SLC caching to reach 520 MB/s read and 450 MB/s write speeds. This form factor suits users who need a standard drive for desktops or older laptops. It provides shock and vibration resistance for reliable operation in various environments.
Pros
- 256GB storage capacity
- 520 MB/s max read speed
- 450 MB/s max write speed
- 2.5-inch form factor
- SLC caching technology
Cons
- 2.5-inch size is bulkier than M.2 options
- SATA III interface limits speed compared to NVMe
- 256GB capacity is lower than some alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a 2.5-inch drive for a desktop or laptop
- You want reliable 3D NAND TLC storage
- You prefer standard SATA III compatibility
Skip if
- You require M.2 2280 or 2242 form factors
- You need NVMe speeds for heavy workloads
- You require more than 256GB of storage
Verdict: TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 256GB 2.5 SATA SSD fits users who need a standard 2.5-inch drive for desktops or older laptops. It offers solid SATA III performance for everyday tasks.
Fikwot 256GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD
Best for: budget M.2 SATA laptop upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- SATA III 6Gb/s
- Max Read Speed
- 550 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 460 MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
View on Amazon: Fikwot 256GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD Affiliate link
The Fikwot FN203 is a 256GB M.2 2280 SATA III drive built with 3D NAND TLC and SLC caching. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 550 MB/s and write speeds up to 460 MB/s. This compact form factor fits ultrabooks, tablets, and mini PCs. You get 80TBW endurance and a three-year warranty. It is a practical upgrade for older systems needing faster storage without the bulk of a 2.5-inch drive.
Pros
- SATA III 6Gb/s interface for broad compatibility
- 550 MB/s sequential read speed
- Built-in SLC cache for performance boosts
- 80TBW endurance rating
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor
Cons
- 256GB capacity is lower than many alternatives
- Does not support PS5
- No included mounting hardware mentioned
Good fit if
- You need a budget M.2 SATA upgrade for a laptop
- You want SLC caching for better sustained writes
- You are building or upgrading a mini PC
Skip if
- You require PCIe NVMe speeds
- You need 512GB or more storage
- You are installing in a PS5 console
Verdict: Fikwot FN203 256GB M.2 SATA SSD offers reliable SATA III performance for everyday computing tasks. It suits users upgrading older laptops or mini PCs who prioritize value over high capacity.
Transcend 120GB M.2 SATA SSD
Best for: Standard 2280 SATA upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 120GB
- Interface
- SATA III 6GB/s
- Max Read Speed
- 560MB/sec
- Max Write Speed
- 510MB/sec
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
View on Amazon: Transcend 120GB M.2 SATA SSD Affiliate link
The Transcend MTS820S is a 120GB M.2 2280 SATA III drive. It offers read speeds up to 560MB/sec and write speeds up to 510MB/sec. The unit uses 3D TLC NAND with an SLC cache. You get a B+M key interface. This model suits users needing standard 2280 dimensions and reliable SATA performance for basic storage tasks.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 560MB/sec
- M.2 2280 form factor
- SLC cache for speed boost
- SATA III 6GB/s interface
Cons
- 120GB capacity is small compared to other options
- 2280 length may not fit 2242 slots
- SATA interface limits max throughput
Good fit if
- You need a standard 2280 M.2 drive
- You want SATA III speeds
- You need 120GB of storage
Skip if
- You require 2242 form factor
- You need NVMe speeds
- You need more than 120GB
Verdict: Transcend 120GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD fits users needing a standard 2280 drive with reliable SATA speeds.
Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
Best for: high-capacity 2.5-inch SATA drive upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5 inch
- Max Read Speed
- 500MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 450MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Caching
View on Amazon: Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD Affiliate link
The Addlink S20 offers 512GB of 3D NAND storage in a standard 2.5-inch, 7mm casing using the SATA III interface. It reaches sequential speeds of up to 500MB/s read and 450MB/s write with built-in SLC caching. If you need significantly higher capacity than 120GB drives for a 2.5-inch drive bay, this provides ample room.
Pros
- 512GB storage capacity
- Standard 2.5-inch 7mm form factor fits laptops and consoles
- SLC caching assists transfer responsiveness
- Up to 500MB/s read and 450MB/s write speeds
- Includes 3-year limited warranty coverage
Cons
- 2.5-inch enclosure will not fit M.2 slots
- Lacks dedicated DRAM cache memory
- 500MB/s read speed falls short of the SATA III ceiling
Good fit if
- You have an open 2.5-inch SATA drive bay in your system.
- You want 512GB of storage capacity rather than 120GB or 256GB.
- You need a 7mm drive for a notebook or PS4 upgrade.
Skip if
- You need a compact M.2 2242 or M.2 2280 SATA card.
- You require an SSD with dedicated onboard DRAM cache.
Verdict: Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD suits users who want quadruple the capacity of a standard 120GB drive and have space for a 2.5-inch SATA enclosure. It provides reliable 3D NAND storage with SLC caching for notebooks, desktops, and game consoles.
Silicon Power A55 128GB M.2 SATA SSD
Best for: compact M.2 2280 upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.14 inches
View on Amazon: Silicon Power A55 128GB M.2 SATA SSD Affiliate link
The Silicon Power A55 is a 128GB M.2 2280 SATA III drive designed for compact systems like ultrabooks and mini PCs. It uses TLC NAND with SLC caching to boost transfer speeds. The unit measures 3.15 x 0.87 x 0.14 inches. You get a 3-year warranty if you register online. This drive suits users needing a small, reliable upgrade for older laptops or small form factor builds.
Pros
- M.2 2280 form factor fits compact devices
- SLC cache technology improves speed and lifespan
- SATA III interface ensures broad compatibility
- 3-year warranty available with registration
Cons
- 128GB capacity is limited for modern needs
- No included mounting hardware or screws
- Relies on SLC caching rather than native SLC
Good fit if
- You need a small M.2 2280 drive for an ultrabook
- You want SLC caching for better burst speeds
- You are upgrading a mini PC with limited space
Skip if
- You require more than 128GB of storage
- You need NVMe speeds instead of SATA
- You prefer a 2.5-inch drive for desktops
Verdict: Silicon Power A55 128GB M.2 SATA SSD is a compact storage solution for users who need a small form factor drive with SLC caching. It fits well in ultrabooks and mini PCs where space is tight but SATA compatibility is required.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD | Timetec 256GB M.2 SATA III SSD | TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 256GB SATA SSD | Fikwot 256GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD | Transcend 120GB M.2 SATA SSD | Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD | Silicon Power A55 128GB M.2 SATA SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 120GB | 256GB | 256GB | 256GB | 120GB | 512GB | 128GB |
| Interface | SATA III 6GB/s | SATA III 6Gb/s | SATA III | SATA III 6Gb/s | SATA III 6GB/s | SATA III | SATA III |
| Form Factor | not stated | M.2 2280 | 2.5 Inch | not stated | not stated | 2.5 inch | not stated |
| Max Read Speed | 560MB/sec | Up to 550MB/s | 520 MB/s | 550 MB/s | 560MB/sec | 500MB/s | not stated |
| Max Write Speed | 500MB/sec | Up to 500MB/s | 450 MB/s | 460 MB/s | 510MB/sec | 450MB/s | not stated |
| Cache Type | SLC Cache | SLC Cache | SLC Cache | SLC Cache | SLC Cache | SLC Caching | SLC Cache |
| Compatibility | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop | not stated | not stated | Laptop, Desktop | not stated | not stated |
| NAND Type | not stated | 3D NAND | 3D NAND, TLC | 3D NAND, TLC | not stated | 3D NAND | not stated |
| Size | 120GB | 256GB | 256GB | 256GB | 120GB | 512GB | 128GB |
| Dimensions | 0.87 × 0.15 × 3.15 inches | not stated | 23.6 × 23.6 × 33.5 inches | not stated | 0.87 × 0.15 × 3.15 inches | 3.94 × 2.75 × 0.28 inches | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.14 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 0.63 ounces | 1.59 ounces | 0.71 ounces | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Color | Multicoloured | not stated | Vulcan Z | 256GB | Black | S20 | 128GB |
| Model | TS120GMTS420S | Timetec765441344266 | T253TZ256G0C101 | FN203-256GB | TS120GMTS820S | ad512GBS20S3S | SU128GBSS3A55M28AB |
If you require liquid cooling for your drive, barrow water block m 2 solid alternatives detail compatible cooling hardware.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a 2280 SSD in a 2242 slot?
No, you cannot. The M.2 2242 form factor is physically shorter than the standard 2280 size. A 2280 drive will not fit into a slot designed for the smaller 2242 module. You must choose a drive that matches your specific slot length, such as the Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SSD or the Silicon Power A55 128GB M.2 SATA SSD.
What is the largest capacity available for M.2 2242 SATA drives?
The largest capacity listed for this specific form factor is 120GB. Both the Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 and the 2280 variants offer this same storage size. If you need more space, you must switch to a different form factor. The Timetec and TEAMGROUP options provide 256GB or more, but they use larger 2280 or 2.5-inch sizes.
Do these drives include DRAM cache?
No, none of the listed products include DRAM cache. They all rely on SLC caching to manage data writes. This approach helps maintain consistent performance for everyday tasks without the added cost or power draw of a separate DRAM chip. It is a common configuration for budget-friendly SATA SSDs that prioritize value and reliability over maximum sustained write speeds.
Which alternative is best for a standard laptop upgrade?
The Timetec 256GB M.2 SATA SSD is the top choice for standard laptops. It uses the M.2 2280 form factor, which is the standard size for most modern and older laptops. It offers 256GB of storage and uses 3D NAND with SLC caching. This provides a good balance of capacity and endurance for typical computing needs compared to the smaller 120GB options.
Can I use a 2.5-inch SATA SSD in an M.2 slot?
No, you cannot. The 2.5-inch form factor is physically incompatible with M.2 slots. Drives like the TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z and Addlink S20 are designed for standard drive bays in desktops or older laptops. You need an M.2 drive if your device only has an M.2 slot. The Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SSD fits those specific compact slots.
Is the Fikwot drive a good budget option for M.2 2280?
Yes, the Fikwot 256GB M.2 SATA SSD is a strong budget choice. It uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor and offers 256GB of storage. It features 3D TLC NAND with SLC caching for reliable performance. This drive suits users upgrading older laptops or mini PCs who want more capacity than the 120GB Transcend models without paying for premium features.
What NAND type do these SSDs use?
Most listed drives use 3D NAND. The Timetec, TEAMGROUP, Fikwot, and Addlink models specifically mention 3D NAND technology. The Transcend models do not specify the NAND type in the provided data. 3D NAND stacks memory cells vertically, which generally improves density and endurance compared to older planar NAND designs, making it a standard for modern SATA SSDs.