StarTech.com PEX4M2E1 M. 2 NVMe to PCIe Adapter - x4 PCIe 3.0 - Low/Full Profile Bracket - Steel Red
Business volume discounts
Technical guidance
Preparation & staging
QC · ON · AB · BC
Product Features
Technical Overview
This adapter operates on a x4 PCI Express 3.0 interface, providing sufficient bandwidth for high-speed NVMe SSDs to perform at their full potential. It supports PCIe M.2 SSDs in both NVMe and AHCI protocols, accommodating drive lengths of 2242, 2260, 2280, and 22110. The adapter is backward compatible with PCIe 2.0 and 1.0 motherboards, ensuring broad system compatibility across older and newer hardware.
The card is compatible with PCIe x8 and x16 slots, offering flexibility in slot selection. Installation is straightforward due to native operating system support, eliminating the need for additional drivers in most environments. The adapter's design prioritizes reliable connectivity and stable performance, making it a dependable component for storage upgrades.
Relevant factors for this section include Color Family, Product Color, Product Material, Package Contents. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The StarTech.com PEX4M2E1 adapter stands out for its combination of performance, compatibility, and installation flexibility. It transforms any available PCIe slot into a high-speed M.2 SSD port, enabling users to leverage the latest storage technology without replacing their entire system.
Broad System Compatibility
Works with PCIe 3.0, 2.0, and 1.0 motherboards, and fits into x4, x8, and x16 slots, ensuring it can be used in a wide range of desktop and server configurations.
- Backward compatible with older PCIe standards
- Fits multiple slot sizes for maximum flexibility
Dual Bracket Design
Includes both low-profile and full-profile brackets, allowing installation in standard ATX cases and compact small form-factor systems without requiring additional parts.
- Low-profile bracket for SFF PCs
- Full-profile bracket pre-installed for standard cases
Easy Installation
Features native OS support for plug-and-play setup in most environments, and comes with all necessary hardware including an SSD standoff and installation screw.
- No drivers needed for most OS
- Includes mounting hardware for secure SSD installation
Deployment / Use Cases
This adapter is versatile enough for various professional and enthusiast scenarios. It is particularly useful in systems where onboard M.2 slots are unavailable or already occupied, providing a straightforward way to add high-performance storage.
Common use cases include upgrading older workstations with NVMe SSDs for faster boot times and application loading, expanding storage in gaming PCs without sacrificing existing drives, and adding fast cache or scratch disks in video editing or 3D rendering setups. In server environments, it can be used to incorporate high-speed SSDs for virtualization hosts or database servers, improving I/O performance. The low-profile bracket makes it suitable for home theater PCs and compact office desktops where space is limited.
Workstation & Gaming Upgrades
Add an NVMe SSD to desktops lacking M.2 slots, significantly improving system responsiveness and reducing load times for applications and games.
Small Form-Factor Builds
The included low-profile bracket allows installation in compact cases, enabling high-speed storage in space-constrained environments like HTPCs or mini-ITX systems.
Physical Profile
The adapter features a compact steel design with dimensions of 5.30" (134.62 mm) in length, 3.10" (78.74 mm) in width, and 0.20" (5.08 mm) in height, weighing approximately 1.70 oz (48.19 g). Its red steel finish provides a durable and visually distinct appearance. The dual bracket system ensures it can be mounted in cases with limited vertical clearance, while the sturdy construction maintains reliable connectivity even in vibration-prone environments.
- Width
- 3.10" (78.74 mm)
- Height
- 0.20" (5.08 mm)
- Weight
- 1.70 oz (48.19 g)
- Length
- 5.30" (134.62 mm)
What's in the Box
The package includes all components needed for installation and operation.
Highlights
- Connects PCIe M.2 SSDs (NVMe/AHCI) via x4 PCIe 3.0 for high-speed data access
- Supports drive lengths 2242, 2260, 2280, and 22110 for broad compatibility
- Includes both low-profile and full-profile brackets for flexible installation
- Backward compatible with PCIe 2.0 and 1.0 motherboards
- Works in PCIe x4, x8, and x16 slots for versatile deployment
- Steel construction with red finish for durability and distinct appearance
- Native OS support enables plug-and-play setup in most environments
- Backed by a 2-year limited warranty and free 24/5 North American support
- Compliant with FCC, CE, EU RoHS, and TAA standards
- Includes SSD standoff and installation screw for secure mounting
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | PEX4M2E1 |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | x4 PCI Express 3.0 to M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD Adapter |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | M.2 NVMe to PCIe Adapter |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Red |
| Product Color | Red |
| Product Material | Steel |
| Height | 0.20" (5.08 mm) |
| Width | 3.10" (78.74 mm) |
| Length | 5.30" (134.62 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 1.70 oz (48.19 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | x4 PCI Express 3.0 to M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD Adapter 1 x Low-profile Bracket 1 x Full-profile Bracket (Pre-installed) 1 x SSD Standoff and Installation Screw 1 x Quick Start Guide |
| Certifications & Standards | FCC CE |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
Can I use this adapter in a PCIe 2.0 or 1.0 slot?
Yes, the adapter is backward compatible with PCIe 2.0 and 1.0 slots. While it operates at PCIe 3.0 x4 speeds when installed in a compatible slot, it will function at the lower bandwidth of PCIe 2.0 or 1.0 in older systems, still providing a performance upgrade over traditional SATA connections.
Does the adapter include both low-profile and full-profile brackets?
Yes, the package includes both a low-profile bracket and a full-profile bracket. The full-profile bracket comes pre-installed, and the low-profile bracket is included for installation in small form-factor computers or cases with limited vertical space, offering flexibility for different build configurations.
What is the warranty and support coverage for this product?
The adapter is backed by a 2-year limited warranty from StarTech.com. It also includes free 24/5 multi-lingual technical support based in North America, providing assistance for installation, troubleshooting, and compatibility questions during business hours.
What are the physical dimensions and weight of the adapter?
The adapter measures 5.30 inches (134.62 mm) in length, 3.10 inches (78.74 mm) in width, and 0.20 inches (5.08 mm) in height, with an approximate weight of 1.70 ounces (48.19 grams). Its compact steel construction ensures durability while fitting into most desktop and small form-factor cases.
What connectivity or interface options are available?
Connectivity details help confirm how StarTech.com M.2 Adapter - x4 PCIe 3.0 NVMe - Low Profile and Full Profile - SSD PCIE M.2 Adapter - M2 SSD - PCI Express SSD - Connect (PEX4M2E1) can integrate with your network, accessories, and surrounding peripherals before rollout or replacement planning.
What form factor or physical profile is listed?
The listed physical configuration is 0.20" (5.08 mm), which helps buyers judge placement, comfort, or installation fit in the intended environment.
| Qty | Price | Available |
|---|
