[SOLVED] Does M.2/NVMe storage typically run hot?

[ptrthgr8]

Hi, all.

I’m new to M.2/NVMe memory (just got a new build, and used M.2/NVMe for the first time). Here are the main specs of the machine:

• CPU: Intel Core i7-10700K 3.80 GHz (overclocked to 4.9GHz)
• CPU cooling: Corsair H100i Pro XT RGB
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Founders Edition
• RAM: 32GB Corsair Dominator Platinum 3200MHz RGB
• Mobo: MSI MPG Z490 Gaming EDGE WiFi
• PSU: Corsair 850RM
• OS Disk: Samsung 970 EVO Plus 250GB PCIe NVMe M.2
• Storage Disk: Samsung SSD 860 EVO 2TB
• OS: Win10 Pro

I’m a little startled by how hot this M.2 module is running. Is this normal? I had been playing AC Valhalla with all graphics maxed out for 30 mins or so. The capture on the left was taken immediately after I quit the game, going to the desktop. HD0 is the storage SSD, and HD1 is the M.2/NVMe module. Do these NVMe units always run so hot? The second screenshot was taken about 10 mins after I stopped playing.

I also had HWiNFO64 running while playing. I checked the Drives info afterwards and for that 970 EVO NVMe M.2 it lists both the Warning Temp threshold and Critical Temp threshold as 85C, but it also shows the Time Above Warning and Time Above Critical thresholds as zero minutes.

I realize I can always add a fan or two (easy enough to do), but I just wanted to check to see if this is expected for this time of storage.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Nemesia]

Hi ptrthgr8.

From my experience a normal working temp is around 35-40°C and around 60-70°C in heavy workload.

I wouldn't worry too much if it doesn't go over 70C.

Between 35C and 70C is totally fine. Don't worry about it

Speedfan is trippin.

 

[ptrthgr8]

Hi ptrthgr8.

From my experience a normal working temp is around 35-40°C and around 60-70°C in heavy workload.

I wouldn't worry too much if it doesn't go over 70C.

Between 35C and 70C is totally fine. Don't worry about it

Speedfan is trippin.

Okie dokie. As I'm learning more about M.2 drives, I've confirmed a heatsink is installed. (Again, I'm such an M.2 noob.) The MSI M.2 SHIELD FROZR heatsink is installed:

I can only imagine how hot it would be if there was no heatsink. But it's there, eh?

And I'll likely install an intake fan in the front of the case. There's a 120mm exhaust fan at the rear/top of the case, and only the 2x 120mm fans on the H100i Pro that aren't really helping anything other than the CPU. No intake fan on the front of the case, so it seems like there's probably a need for increased airflow from the front. And luckily I have all sorts of fans on hand.

@Nemesia - thanks for you assistance! Cheers!

 

[sonofjesse]

You can always install a bigger heatsink or heatsink with fan, but if its under 70c most drives are fine (check the specs).

Install some more 120mm fans

 

[ptrthgr8]

Install some more 120mm fans

Sage advice right there! When in doubt... more fans!!!! 😀

 

[Colif]

I have a similar set up, H100i as intake in front of case, 970 Evo plus under heatsink in same spot, I get between 48 and 53 each day.
The NVME really doesn't care where AIO is, its still about same temps in my system, not much cool air gets past my ram I guess.
Running the benchmarks in Magician only pushes temps to about 60 but it drops pretty quick after

I would use Speedfan but it has no idea what my CPU/motherboard is. Pity that, I used it for years.
Just change the temps on Speedfan so it doesn't think NVME on fire when below 65c

intakes help if the only fan you have is exhaust right now, I assume H100 in roof of case? 3 exhausts, no intakes...

considering many boards have 2nd NVME slots underneath the GPU (mine does), I don't think those temps are going to bother it, the warm air from GPU is still enough to assist airflow.

 

[ptrthgr8]

intakes help if the only fan you have is exhaust right now, I assume H100 in roof of case? 3 exhausts, no intakes...

considering many boards have 2nd NVME slots underneath the GPU (mine does), I don't think those temps are going to bother it, the warm air from GPU is still enough to assist airflow.

Yep, H100 in the roof, no intakes. I'll remedy that, just on general principle if for no other reason.

And I had also wondered about the proximity of NVME slot to the GPU, but I think you're right - I suppose it wouldn't make much sense for the manufacturer to put them somewhere that would cause them to meltdown.

 

[Colif]

some NVME get so warm the "hot air" from GPU can still cool them down.

Not sure how you fit some of the newer PCIe 4 NVME that come with pre installed heatsinks, under the GPU, but I guess if I get one of those I can move the PCIe 3 NVME to under there. That is unlikely as I have too much storage already.

GPU may stay cooler with intake blowing its heat away.