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How to Install an M.2 SSD

Introduction

Follow this general guide to learn how to install an M.2 SSD in your laptop.

Before you work on your laptop, be sure to completely power off and unplug it. Make sure the laptop is not in standby, sleep, or hibernation mode.

What you need

  1. How to Install an M.2 SSD, Reposition the standoff: step 1, image 1 of 2 How to Install an M.2 SSD, Reposition the standoff: step 1, image 2 of 2

    • If your laptop did not include a removable standoff or only supports one M.2 SSD form factor, you can skip this step.

    • Use a screwdriver to remove the preinstalled standoff.

    • If your laptop does not include a preinstalled standoff, you will need to get one.

    • Find the correct standoff location that corresponds to your desired M.2 SSD form factor.

    • Screw in the standoff.

    Edit

  2. How to Install an M.2 SSD, Insert the SSD: step 2, image 1 of 3 How to Install an M.2 SSD, Insert the SSD: step 2, image 2 of 3 How to Install an M.2 SSD, Insert the SSD: step 2, image 3 of 3

    • Grip the SSD on the sides near the screw indent.

    • Gently slide the SSD into the socket at about a 30˚ angle.

    • The socket is spring loaded and will support the SSD at an angle.

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  4. How to Install an M.2 SSD, Screw down the SSD: step 3, image 1 of 3 How to Install an M.2 SSD, Screw down the SSD: step 3, image 2 of 3 How to Install an M.2 SSD, Screw down the SSD: step 3, image 3 of 3

    • Use your finger to hold the SSD down horizontally, making sure that the screw indent aligns with the standoff.

    • Screw down the SSD to secure it.

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  5. How to Install an M.2 SSD, Apply a thermal pad: step 4, image 1 of 3 How to Install an M.2 SSD, Apply a thermal pad: step 4, image 2 of 3 How to Install an M.2 SSD, Apply a thermal pad: step 4, image 3 of 3

    • If your laptop did not have a thermal pad installed, you can skip this step.

    • Use tweezers or your fingers to place a thermal pad on the top of the SSD.

    • The original thermal pad can be reused if it is clean and undamaged.

    Edit
Conclusion

Installation didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our Answers community for help.

6 other people completed this guide.

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Chayton Ritter

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