How to Identify M.2 Slot Types on a Used EliteDesk 800 G5

Select Language:

If you’re planning to upgrade your used EliteDesk 800 G5 SFF with a new M.2 boot drive, you’re probably wondering about the details of the M.2 slots available on this computer. Here’s a simple guide to help you figure out the specifications of these slots and how to make sure your upgrade goes smoothly.

First, understanding the types of M.2 slots is important. Many people assume that both M.2 slots in a desktop PC are the same, often believing they are both NVMe PCIe slots. However, some manufacturers specify that one of the slots is SATA while the other is NVMe PCIe. The key difference is that NVMe PCIe drives tend to be faster, but SATA M.2 drives are easier to find and sometimes more affordable.

Since detailed technical specifications for this specific computer model can be hard to find online, a good rule of thumb is to consult the motherboard manual or any official documentation from Dell for the EliteDesk 800 G5. If you don’t have the manual, check Dell’s official support website; they often provide detailed technical documents for their models.

If that doesn’t yield the information you need, here are some practical steps:

Check the physical slots: Open your PC and look closely at the M.2 slots. Sometimes, there are labels or notches that indicate whether a slot is SATA or PCIe. The physical keying (notch position) can tell you if it supports SATA, NVMe PCIe, or both.
Use system diagnostics tools: Once your PC arrives and is running, use software like Speccy, CPU-Z, or Device Manager on Windows. These tools can tell you what kind of SSD sockets your motherboard supports.
Contact Dell support: Speaking directly with Dell support can provide the most accurate information. Have your PC’s model number ready, and ask specifically about the M.2 slots’ specifications.
Research the CPU and chipset: The Intel processor and chipset in your PC will also determine what types of M.2 SSDs are supported. Usually, a newer chipset will support both SATA and NVMe PCIe M.2 drives, but it’s best to confirm.

Once you know what each slot supports, you can confidently upgrade your machine. If one slot is SATA and the other PCIe NVMe, choose your SSD accordingly. Installing an NVMe drive in a PCIe slot will give you much faster boot times and improved overall performance.

In summary, to determine the specs of your PC’s M.2 slots, check physical markings, consult official support documents, or use diagnostic tools after setting up your PC. This will ensure you select the right SSD and enjoy a smooth upgrade process.