MSI B550 M.2 Slots

[nheather]

Hi,

Upgrading my PC and have new CPU (5800X3D) and Motherboard (MSI B550 A PRO). I’ve also inherited an AIO and a better case as ‘hand me downs’ from an upgrade that my son has just done.

My question is about the M.2 slots. On the motherboard there are two slots, #1 is longer and has a heatsink, #2 is shorter and does not have a heatsink. I only have one M.2 which is my system drive and that is already fitted with a heatsink.

Is there any detriment to fitting my M.2 to slot #2, leaving the slot #1 empty?

This is simpler and fits with my idea that I will get a second M.2 if and when prices become sensible that would go in slot #1.

 

[nheather]

Just found the answer myself. Slot #1 supports up to 4.0, slot #2 supports up to 3.0. My M.2 is a 4.0 so I should use slot #1 for the best performance.

 

[Dg834man]

Yeah thats right but only half the answer, slot one is pcie lanes from the cpu, slot two is via the chipset.

 

[Tetras]

Is there any detriment to fitting my M.2 to slot #2, leaving the slot #1 empty?

This is simpler and fits with my idea that I will get a second M.2 if and when prices become sensible that would go in slot #1.

You're unlikely to notice in the real world. If slot 2 is more convenient, then I wouldn't be bothered. As an aside: I'd strongly recommend you don't remove a factory fitted heatsink (on a SSD).

 

[nheather]

You're unlikely to notice in the real world. If slot 2 is more convenient, then I wouldn't be bothered. As an aside: I'd strongly recommend you don't remove a factory fitted heatsink (on a SSD).

It’s not a factory fitted heatsink, it’s an Arctic M2 Pro.

But I’m not that keen to disassemble it because the two halves of the heatsink are quite a tight fit and I don’t want to risk damaging the SSD.