Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe vs Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD (2026): Key Differences
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are comparing the transcend 512gb mte110s pcie 3 0 vs 256gb mts830s m 2 sata. Both drives use M.2 2280 form factors and 3D NAND flash. They share LDPC error correction for data integrity. The main difference lies in their interfaces and speeds. One uses PCIe 3.0 for high throughput, while the other relies on SATA III. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize raw speed or specific compatibility with older systems.
Key differences
| Aspect | Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD | Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen3 x4 | SATA III |
| Sequential Read Speed | Up to 1,800 MB/s | Up to 560 MB/s |
| Sequential Write Speed | Up to 1,500 MB/s | Up to 520 MB/s |
| Cache Type | SLC Caching | DDR3 DRAM Cache |
| Storage Capacity | 512GB | 256GB |
| Key Type | not listed | B+M Key |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD if
- You need faster transfer speeds for large files or gaming.
- You want more storage space with 512GB capacity.
- Your system supports PCIe 3.0 NVMe drives.
Choose Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM if
- You require a DRAM cache for consistent performance under heavy loads.
- You need compatibility with older motherboards via B+M key.
- You are satisfied with standard SATA III speeds.
Verdict: Choose the MTE110S if you need high-speed data transfer and double the storage. The MTS830S is better if you need DRAM caching or broader compatibility with older systems. Both use reliable 3D NAND technology.
Speed and interface differences
Interface standard
The Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD uses a PCIe Gen3 x4 interface. This connection allows for significantly higher bandwidth compared to traditional SATA connections. It adheres to the NVMe 1.3 standard, which is designed specifically for flash storage to reduce latency. In contrast, the Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM relies on the SATA III interface. While SATA III is widely supported, it is limited by older architecture. The PCIe interface provides a more direct path to the CPU, making it the superior choice for modern systems that support NVMe drives.
Transfer speed
Speed is where these two drives diverge most sharply. The Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD offers sequential read speeds up to 1,800 MB/s and write speeds up to 1,500 MB/s. These figures are enabled by its PCIe Gen3 x4 interface. The Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM tops out at 560 MB/s for reads and 520 MB/s for writes. This limit is inherent to the SATA III protocol. For large file transfers or loading heavy applications, the PCIe drive moves data much faster, reducing wait times considerably.
Cache type
Cache memory helps manage data flow and maintain consistent performance under load. The Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM includes a dedicated DDR3 DRAM cache. This separate chip stores the mapping table for data, which can improve performance during random read and write tasks. The Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD uses SLC caching technology instead. This method reserves a portion of the NAND flash as a high-speed buffer. While effective for burst speeds, it lacks the dedicated hardware cache found in the SATA model.
Storage capacity
Capacity determines how much data you can store on the drive. The Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD provides 512GB of storage space. This is double the amount offered by the Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM, which holds 256GB. If you need to store more operating system files, games, or media libraries, the 512GB model gives you more room. The SATA drive is suitable for basic storage needs but fills up faster. For users with larger data requirements, the higher capacity is a practical advantage.
Thermal management
SSDs generate heat during operation, which can affect performance if not managed. The Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD features an engineered dynamic thermal throttling mechanism. This system monitors temperature and adjusts performance to prevent overheating, ensuring stable operation. The specifications for the Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM do not explicitly mention a thermal throttling mechanism. Both drives use 3D NAND flash, but the PCIe drive includes specific engineering to handle heat dissipation and maintain speed under load.
Which Transcend SSD fits your needs
Users needing high capacity and fast speeds
The Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe offers double the storage of the SATA model. It delivers up to 1,800 MB/s read speeds using the PCIe Gen3 x4 interface. This drive suits you if you require large file storage and rapid data transfer rates for demanding tasks.
Buyers prioritizing DRAM cache for consistency
The Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD includes a DDR3 DRAM cache. This hardware cache stores active data to shorten access times and improve performance consistency. Choose this drive if you value dedicated memory for handling random read and write operations more efficiently than SLC caching alone.
Those seeking lower power consumption
The PCIe NVMe model is engineered with low power specifications. It also features dynamic thermal throttling to manage heat during operation. If you are building a compact system or need efficient power usage alongside high bandwidth, this NVMe drive provides a robust solution for your storage needs.
The products compared
Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD
Best for: PCIe 3.0 systems needing fast NVMe storage
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen3 x4, NVMe 1.3
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Compatibility
- Laptop, Desktop
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 0.14 × 0.87 inches
View on Amazon: Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD Affiliate link
This Transcend MTE110S is a 512GB M.2 2280 NVMe drive using a PCIe Gen3 x4 interface. It offers sequential read speeds up to 1,800 MB/s and write speeds up to 1,500 MB/s. The drive uses 3D NAND flash and includes SLC caching for improved transfer speeds. It also features dynamic thermal throttling to manage heat. This model is suitable for users needing fast storage in a standard M.2 form factor.
Pros
- PCIe Gen3 x4 interface for high bandwidth
- Read speeds up to 1,800 MB/s
- Built-in SLC caching technology
- Dynamic thermal throttling mechanism
Cons
- No DRAM cache listed in specifications
- No warranty duration specified in data
- Only one capacity option shown for this specific model variant
Good fit if
- You need fast NVMe speeds in a PCIe 3.0 system
- You require a standard M.2 2280 form factor
- You want 512GB of storage capacity
Skip if
- You require a drive with DRAM cache
- You need PCIe 4.0 or higher speeds
- You prefer SATA interface compatibility
Verdict: Transcend 512GB MTE110S NVMe SSD provides strong sequential read performance for PCIe 3.0 systems. It is a practical option for users who prioritize speed and thermal management in a standard M.2 2280 package.
Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM
Best for: SATA-compatible laptops and desktops
- 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 the 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. You should choose this model if you need reliable storage for a standard laptop or desktop that supports SATA connections. It fits well in space-constrained devices.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s
- Includes DDR3 DRAM cache for better performance
- Uses 3D NAND flash memory for endurance
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor
Cons
- SATA III interface limits speed compared to NVMe
- 256GB capacity is smaller than the 512GB PCIe option
- Lower maximum write speed than PCIe alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a budget-friendly upgrade for an older system
- Your device only supports SATA III connections
- You require a compact M.2 2280 drive for light tasks
Skip if
- You need the high throughput of PCIe 3.0 NVMe
- You require more than 256GB of storage space
- You are building a high-performance gaming PC
Verdict: Transcend 256GB MTS830S SATA SSD offers solid SATA speeds and DRAM caching for users with compatible motherboards. It suits those prioritizing cost and compatibility over the faster speeds of NVMe drives.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD | Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD with DRAM |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 512GB | 256GB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen3 x4, NVMe 1.3 | SATA III |
| Max Read Speed | not stated | 560 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not stated | 520 MB/s |
| Cache Type | SLC Cache | DDR3 DRAM Cache |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 |
| Compatibility | Laptop, Desktop | Laptop, Desktop |
| Size | 512GB | 256GB |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 0.14 × 0.87 inches | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.14 inches |
| Model | TS512GMTE110S | TS256GMTS830S |
| Color | not stated | Green |
Frequently asked questions
Which Transcend SSD has more storage capacity?
The Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe drive holds twice the data of the SATA model. It offers a 512GB size, while the M.2 SATA SSD provides 256GB. You should choose the NVMe option if you need extra space for large files or multiple applications without frequent cleanup.
Does the SATA SSD include DRAM cache?
Yes, the Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD features a DRAM cache. This component helps manage data flow more efficiently than drives without it. The NVMe model does not list DRAM in its specifications, relying instead on its PCIe interface for performance management.
Are both drives the same physical size?
Both drives share the M.2 2280 form factor. They measure 3.15 inches in length and 0.87 inches in width. The height is identical at 0.14 inches for both models. This standard size ensures they fit into most modern laptops and desktops with M.2 slots.
Which interface is faster, PCIe or SATA?
The PCIe 3.0 interface is significantly faster than SATA III. The NVMe drive uses PCIe Gen3 x4, allowing for higher bandwidth and lower latency. The SATA model is limited by the older SATA III standard, which caps data transfer rates regardless of other components.
What is the model number for the NVMe drive?
The model number for the faster drive is TS512GMTE110S. It is the Transcend 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD. This specific model is designed for systems that support NVMe protocols and benefit from the speed advantages of the PCIe bus.
Which drive is better for older motherboards?
The Transcend 256GB M.2 SATA SSD is better for older systems. It uses the SATA III interface, which is widely supported by legacy motherboards. The NVMe drive requires a motherboard with NVMe support, which may not be present in older computer builds.