What is NVMe? NVMe or Non-Volatile Memory Express is an industry-standard software interface that enables SSDs and other components to run directly through the PCI Express (PCIe) physical interface directly attached to a computer’s processor . NVMe is an alternative to the older SATA interface that was designed to connect storage devices to computer motherboards. SATA does not have a direct link to the computer’s processor. Many NVMe SSD drives use the M.2 form factor, like the drive pictured below. What is M.2? M.2 is a form factor that spells out the physical size and shape of the card that can be plugged into an M.2 slot . This form factor has been designed to maximize space while minimizing the footprint. The M.2 slot is rectangular, with possible widths of 12, 16, 22, or 30 millimeters. Most M.2 solid-state drives are 22 millimeters wide. Lengths can also vary: 16, 26, 30, 38, 42, 60, 80, or 110 millimeters. Most computer motherboards accommodate a variety of lengths ...