Can't figure out M.2 SSD For OS Booting

[Nickp15]

I’ve done so much research on this and I just keep having these pesky questions. 3 of them to be exact. I was hoping you guys could help me out please!

(My PC specs are at the very bottom)

So basically I want to install an M.2 SSD on one of the two built in M.2 sockets on my motherboard. Strictly for booting my OS and to install this CAD program I use often. Here are my questions :

1. If you look below at the motherboard specs for the included M.2 sockets they are some differences between the two. So which of the two sockets should I be using for my purpose?
2. One of the two M.2 sockets advertises to be “Intel Optane Memory Ready” is this something I can benefit from? nd if so could it be done in conjunction with the “OS booting SSD” I want to install?
3. Recommended appropriate M.2 SSD card for this purpose.

Sorry for the long question good internet people!

My PC Specs:
Intel i7-7700 3.6GHz, NVIDIA GTX 1060 3GB, 32GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB 7200RPM HDD, Win 10
Motherboard:
ASUS-PRIME B250M-A
1 x M.2 Socket 3, with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices support
(SATA mode & X4 PCIE mode)*1

1 x M.2 Socket 3, with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices support (x4 PCIE mode)*2
Intel® Optane™ Memory Ready *3

Notes
*1 When a device in SATA mode is installed on the M.2_1 socket, SATA_1 port cannot be used.
*2 Only M.2_2 socket can support Intel® Optane™ Memory.
*3 Intel® Optane™ Technology is only supported when using 7th Generation Intel® processors.

[jmarket]

Hi @Nickp15 and welcome to PCHF

For your purposes, I would highly recommend getting Intel Optane Memory. For CAD Design, 3D Design, etc… there’s no substitute for Intel Optane M.2 drives. You’re going to see the best speed, best performance, and best longevity. Pair that with a Samsung 970 Pro M.2 and you’re set.

In this case, you would use the 970 Pro for OS, and the Optane for your CAD files.

[Nickp15]

Hi @Nickp15 and welcome to PCHF

For your purposes, I would highly recommend getting Intel Optane Memory. For CAD Design, 3D Design, etc… there’s no substitute for Intel Optane M.2 drives. You’re going to see the best speed, best performance, and best longevity. Pair that with a Samsung 970 Pro M.2 and you’re set.

In this case, you would use the 970 Pro for OS, and the Optane for your CAD files.

Thank you for the quick response friend.

So let me make sure I understood correctly.
You are saying the best ideal set up would include two M.2 cards. One branded as “optane capable” where I would store my CAD files, and a Samsung 970 card or equivalent just for OS.

So I’m inferring by your answer that both cards can be used simultaneously. Correct?

Also (and at the risk of abusing your kindness). What would the set up look loke for these cards after inserting them. Is is at simple as downloading a few drivers and coning the OS?

[veeg]

Any updates for us?

[veeg]

Any updates for us? After 48 hrs this thread will be closed.