Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD vs Transcend 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2: Spec Comparison
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This comparison examines the transcend 256gb mts830s m 2 sata vs 256gb mte410s pcie 4 0. Both drives offer 256GB of storage from Transcend. The main difference lies in their connection standards and physical size. The MTS830S uses a SATA interface with a standard 2280 footprint. The MTE410S uses a faster PCIe 4.0 interface in a compact 2242 shape. You need to check your device's slot type before buying.
Key differences
| Aspect | Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM | Transcend 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2242 SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | SATA III | PCIe Gen 4x4 |
| Max Read Speed | 560 MB/s | 3300 MB/s |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2242 |
| Cache Type | DDR3 DRAM Cache | SLC caching |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM if
- You need a drive for a standard laptop or desktop with an M.2 2280 SATA slot.
- You prefer a drive with dedicated DRAM cache for consistent performance under heavy loads.
- You want a proven SATA solution that works with older motherboards lacking PCIe 4.0 support.
Choose Transcend 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2242 SSD if
- You are upgrading a handheld device like the Lenovo Legion Go that requires a 2242 form factor.
- You need significantly higher sequential read speeds for large file transfers.
- You are building a compact system where space is limited and PCIe 4.0 bandwidth is available.
Verdict: The MTS830S is the practical choice for standard desktops and laptops that use SATA connections. The MTE410S is better for compact devices like handheld consoles that require the smaller 2242 size and benefit from PCIe 4.0 speeds.
SATA vs PCIe 4.0 SSD Specs
Interface Speed
The Transcend 256GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 M.2 2242 SSD offers significantly higher sequential read speeds than the SATA model. The PCIe drive reaches up to 3300MB/s, leveraging a Gen 4x4 interface for rapid data access. In contrast, the Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM is limited by the SATA III standard, capping read speeds at 560 MB/s and write speeds at 520 MB/s. This speed gap makes the PCIe option far better for large file transfers, while the SATA drive remains adequate for general storage tasks where bandwidth is less critical.
Form Factor
Physical dimensions vary between these two drives, affecting compatibility with your device. The PCIe model uses the M.2 2242 form factor, measuring 1.65 inches in length and 0.09 inches in height. It features a single-sided design. The SATA drive uses the larger M.2 2280 form factor, measuring 3.15 inches long and 0.14 inches high. If you are installing this in a handheld console or a compact ultrabook, the 2242 size is likely required. The 2280 SATA drive fits standard desktop motherboards and larger laptops more easily.
Cache Type
The Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM includes a dedicated DDR3 DRAM cache. This component stores active data mappings, which helps maintain consistent performance during heavy writes and improves overall system responsiveness. The PCIe 4.0 drive is a non-DRAM SSD. Instead, it relies on SLC caching to manage data temporarily. While SLC caching boosts speed for short bursts, the lack of dedicated DRAM may affect sustained performance under heavy loads compared to the SATA model with its hardware cache.
Power Efficiency
The Transcend 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2242 SSD is explicitly designed for energy efficiency. It reduces power consumption to help extend battery life in portable devices like handheld gaming PCs and lightweight notebooks. The SATA drive does not list specific power efficiency features in its data. For users prioritizing battery life in mobile hardware, the PCIe drive’s optimized power design offers a clear advantage. The SATA drive is generally sufficient for always-on desktop systems where power draw is less of a concern.
NAND Technology
Both drives utilize 3D NAND flash memory technology. This vertical stacking of memory cells allows for higher density and improved endurance compared to older planar NAND designs. The data confirms this shared feature for both the SATA and PCIe models. This commonality ensures that both drives benefit from the performance and reliability gains of 3D NAND. You can expect similar foundational storage characteristics from both, regardless of their different interfaces or cache types. This spec does not differentiate the two products in this comparison.
Error Correction
Both SSDs incorporate Low-Density Parity Check (LDPC) coding to ensure data integrity. This advanced error correction method helps prevent data corruption during transfers and extends the drive's lifespan. The presence of LDPC in both models means you get reliable data protection regardless of which interface you choose. This is a standard feature in modern SSDs, so it does not provide a competitive edge for either product. Both drives are built to maintain data accuracy over time using this same robust technology.
Choose the right Transcend SSD
Users needing standard desktop or laptop upgrades
The MTS830S uses a SATA III interface, which fits most older systems and standard desktops. It includes a DDR3 DRAM cache to manage data efficiently, ensuring stable performance for everyday tasks. The 2280 form factor is widely supported, making it a reliable choice for general storage expansion where extreme speed is not required.
Owners of handheld gaming PCs or compact devices
This drive features a PCIe Gen 4x4 interface with speeds up to 3300MB/s, ideal for modern portable devices like the Lenovo Legion Go. Its 2242 form factor fits smaller slots, and the non-DRAM design improves energy efficiency. This combination provides high throughput in a compact, power-saving package for gaming and mobile use.
Buyers prioritizing data integrity and endurance
The SATA model includes dedicated DDR3 DRAM cache, which helps maintain consistent performance under heavy loads by storing active data temporarily. It also utilizes LDPC coding for error correction. This hardware approach often results in better sustained write speeds and reliability for users who frequently transfer large files or run multiple applications simultaneously.
The products compared
Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM
Best for: Standard SATA M.2 slots
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Max Read Speed
- 560 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 520 MB/s
- Cache Type
- DDR3 DRAM Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
View on Amazon: Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM Affiliate link
This Transcend drive uses a SATA III interface and M.2 2280 form factor. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s and write speeds up to 520 MB/s. The inclusion of a DDR3 DRAM cache helps manage data access efficiently. It is built with 3D NAND flash memory for better endurance. This model suits users who need reliable storage for standard desktops or laptops without requiring PCIe 4.0 speeds.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds reach 560 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds reach 520 MB/s
- Includes DDR3 DRAM cache for performance
- Uses 3D NAND flash memory technology
Cons
- SATA III interface limits speeds compared to PCIe 4.0 options
- 256GB capacity is smaller than higher-tier models
- M.2 2280 size may not fit smaller 2242 slots
Good fit if
- You need a SATA III drive for a standard M.2 slot
- You prefer DRAM cache for consistent performance
- You are upgrading an older laptop or desktop
Skip if
- You require PCIe 4.0 speeds for heavy workloads
- You need more than 256GB of storage space
- Your device only supports the smaller 2242 form factor
Verdict: Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD offers solid SATA III performance with DRAM cache. It fits users who prioritize reliability and standard interfaces over maximum bandwidth.
Transcend 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2242 SSD
Best for: Lenovo Legion Go and compact handheld devices
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 4x4
- Max Read Speed
- 3300MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC caching, non-DRAM
- Form Factor
- M.2 2242
- Dimensions
- 1.65 × 0.87 × 0.09 inches
View on Amazon: Transcend 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2242 SSD Affiliate link
This drive uses a PCIe Gen 4x4 interface to reach read speeds of 3300MB/s. It measures 42mm in length, fitting the M.2 2242 slot. The design is single-sided and energy efficient. It includes SLC caching and LDPC error correction for reliability. This SSD suits portable devices and handheld gaming PCs that need a compact, fast storage solution.
Pros
- PCIe Gen 4x4 interface for high-speed data transfer
- 3300MB/s maximum read speed
- Compact 2242 form factor with single-sided design
- SLC caching and LDPC error correction
- Five-year limited warranty
Cons
- 256GB capacity is lower than larger options
- 2242 size is not compatible with standard 2280 slots
- Non-DRAM design may impact sustained heavy workloads
Good fit if
- You need a drive for a Lenovo Legion Go
- You require a compact 2242 SSD for a handheld device
- You want PCIe 4.0 speeds in a small form factor
Skip if
- You need a standard 2280 M.2 slot
- You require more than 256GB of storage
- You need a DRAM cache for heavy sustained writes
Verdict: Transcend 256GB MTE410S PCIe 4.0 2242 is a compact, high-speed option for handheld gaming PCs and small laptops. It fits users who need PCIe 4.0 performance in a 2242 slot.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM | Transcend 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2242 SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 256GB | 256GB |
| Interface | SATA III | PCIe Gen 4x4 |
| Max Read Speed | 560 MB/s | 3300MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 520 MB/s | not stated |
| Cache Type | DDR3 DRAM Cache | SLC caching, non-DRAM |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2242 |
| Compatibility | Laptop, Desktop | not stated |
| Size | 256GB | Gen4x4 |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.14 inches | 1.65 × 0.87 × 0.09 inches |
| Color | Green | Black |
| Model | TS256GMTS830S | TS256GMTE410S |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD fit in a PCIe slot?
Yes, you can install the MTS830S in a PCIe slot. It uses an M.2 2280 form factor, which is physically compatible with standard PCIe x4 slots. However, it will only operate at SATA III speeds. You gain no performance benefit from the faster interface, but the drive will function correctly for basic storage needs.
Which Transcend drive is better for a Lenovo Legion Go?
The 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2242 SSD is the better choice. It features a compact 2242 form factor, designed specifically for handheld devices like the Legion Go. The larger 2280 SATA drive is too long for these compact slots. This PCIe model also provides higher speeds suitable for gaming applications in small form factors.
Does the SATA model include DRAM cache?
Yes, the MTS830S SATA SSD includes a DRAM cache. This component helps manage data more efficiently, ensuring stable performance during everyday tasks. The PCIe 4.0 model does not list DRAM in its specifications. The DRAM cache is a key feature for users prioritizing reliability and consistent data handling over raw bandwidth.
What is the physical size difference between the two drives?
The SATA model is a standard 2280 size, measuring 3.15 inches in length. The PCIe 4.0 model is a compact 2242 size, measuring only 1.65 inches in length. Both share the same width of 0.87 inches. The PCIe drive is significantly shorter, making it suitable for tight spaces where standard drives will not fit.
Is the PCIe 4.0 drive backward compatible with older systems?
Yes, the PCIe 4.0 drive can work in older systems with PCIe 3.0 slots. It will operate at PCIe 3.0 speeds due to backward compatibility. However, the M.2 2242 form factor may not fit in all standard desktop motherboards. You must verify that your system supports the shorter 2242 size before purchasing this specific model.
Which drive is better for a standard desktop upgrade?
The MTS830S SATA SSD is generally better for standard desktops. It uses the widely supported 2280 form factor and SATA III interface. Most older systems and standard desktops have M.2 slots that accept this size. The PCIe 4.0 model requires a 2242 slot, which is rare in traditional desktop motherboards and more common in laptops or handhelds.