Storage options for Framework Laptop 16 (AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series)

Framework Laptop 16
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I bought the Framework Laptop 16 (AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series) and installed the Dual M.2 Adapter for more storage options. I’ve searched and searched but can’t find specific information about some storage questions. When using the M.2 2230 secondary storage interface on the main board, what is the actual reduction in speed. I read “SSDs with x4 PCIe 4.0 will run at slower speed” but that isn’t specific. What are the limitations of SSD performance in the expansion bay? I read that the new expansion bay connection is better than it has been but still not as good as mainboard. What does this actually mean. Mine came with a 2TB primary. Can I add a 2TB 2230 secondary storage option and will it read faster than drives in the expansion bay? Has anyone fully loaded all drive options and can tell me their experience.

(I’m using mine for music production and I want to try to best mirror the 3 drive system I had in my last laptop: Primary drive is programs, secondary drive is music production files, and third drive is music collection.)

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You have some very good points and questions. I can only help you partially by providing you first-hand experience from a “compatibility” aspect. I have a Corsair MP600 MINI 2TB (Gen4) PCIe x4 NVMe M.2 2230 SSD in the 2nd slot (physically located underneath the primary 2280 SSD). From a compatibility aspect zero issues and stability, response and performance seem to be good(although I have not run any detailed tests for thruput, thermals etc..). For my use case I am happy. Probably not exactly what you were asking but provided some details that might help when it comes time to select a 2230 SSD perhaps? I am sure others will provide you additional details perhaps on performance statistics, thermals etc… on other brands.