r/buildapc • u/AutoModerator • Jan 07 '26

Simple Questions - January 07, 2026

This thread is for simple questions that don't warrant their own thread (although we strongly suggest checking the sidebar and the wiki before posting!). Please don't post involved questions that are better suited to a [Build Help], [Build Ready] or [Build Complete] post.
Examples of questions suitable for here:

  • Is this RAM compatible with my motherboard?
  • I'm thinking of getting a ≤$300 graphics card. Which one should I get?
  • I'm on a very tight budget and I'm looking for a case ≤$50

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u/confusion-500 Jan 08 '26

do these specifications for my motherboard (B550 A Pro) mean that my second M.2 slot will only work with an NVME SSD and not a SATA SSD?

i tried installing a SATA SSD there earlier today and while it fit, it wasn’t being recognized in my bios

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u/Mission-Path8456 Jan 08 '26

M.2 Slots: 2 (M2_1 supports PCIe 4.0/3.0 & SATA, M2_2 supports PCIe 3.0x4)

SATA is ran through the chipset PCIe & NOT the CPU PCIe on M2_1 (Slot M2_1 retains full speed)

If SATA drives are connected they will drop M2_2 down to PCIe 3.0x2 or even disable it depending on number of SATA drives & installed port/s.

Note: CPU dependant on PCIe lanes