Raspberry Pi 5 PCIe to M.2 NVMe SSD Expansion Board by Elecrow
Elecrow Raspberry Pi 5 PCIe to M.2 NVMe SSD Expansion Board
This board converts the Raspberry Pi 5’s PCIe interface into an M.2 M‑key slot, letting you connect a 2230 or 2242 NVMe SSD directly. Use it to boot the OS or as a high‑speed data drive, delivering sequential reads up to ~400 MB/s—significantly faster than microSD or USB drives.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Interface | PCIe Gen2 x1 (via 16‑pin FPC ribbon) |
| M.2 Connector | M‑Key, supports NVMe PCIe 2230 / 2242 form factors |
| Power Supply | On‑board 3.3 V regulator, powered from Pi 5’s 5 V rail |
| PCB Dimensions | 65 mm × 30 mm (mounting holes match Pi 5) |
| Boot Support | NVMe boot enabled via Raspberry Pi bootloader (config.txt) |
| OS Compatibility | Raspberry Pi OS (Bookworm), Ubuntu 24.04+, DietPi |
What You Can Build With This
- High‑speed NAS with OpenMediaVault, storing media and backups on NVMe
- Retro‑gaming console that loads ROMs instantly from SSD
- Edge AI node storing large model files and datasets directly
- Desktop‑class Pi workstation with fast application launch and smooth multitasking
Compatibility
The board is designed exclusively for Raspberry Pi 5, using its dedicated PCIe FPC connector. It supplies 3.3 V directly to the M.2 slot via an on‑board regulator, avoiding voltage mismatches. Commonly paired SSDs include Samsung PM991, WD SN530, and Kingston NV2 in 2230 or 2242 lengths. Full NVMe boot requires a recent bootloader; enable it in raspi‑config or config.txt.
Wiring Notes
Connect the included 16‑pin FPC ribbon between the Pi 5’s PCIe header and the board’s input jack. Insert the SSD into the M.2 slot, secure it with the provided screw, and mount the board using the standoffs. The SSD may draw up to 2.5 A peak—ensure your Pi 5 power supply can deliver at least 5 V / 5 A if you plan to run additional peripherals.
Why Buy from Compoden
Every component is sourced from verified suppliers and tested for compatibility before listing. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. Ships from Bengaluru in 3-5 days. If defective on arrival, replace within 7 days.
Is this compatible with Raspberry Pi 4?
No, this expansion board uses the PCIe FPC connector that is only present on Raspberry Pi 5. It will not work with Pi 4 or earlier models.
Can I boot the Raspberry Pi 5 directly from the NVMe SSD?
Yes. Update the bootloader via raspi‑config or add “dtparam=nvme” to /boot/config.txt. After rebooting, the Pi will detect and boot from the NVMe drive.
Does the board support SATA M.2 SSDs?
No. The M‑key slot and PCIe interface only support NVMe (PCIe) SSDs. SATA‑based M.2 drives are physically compatible with the connector but will not be detected.
📦 Free Setup Handoff Document Included
Every Compoden order includes a free setup handoff document — step-by-step instructions to get your component working within minutes. Download it via QR code on your package. The handoff document is also trained to help you troubleshoot the majority of problems.
What you can build with this
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items