How to Upgrade the SSD on Your GEEKOM Mini PC

Article ID Code: GK-SSD-01

Most GEEKOM Mini PCs support user-upgradeable SSD storage. This article explains how to check your current SSD, what type is compatible, and how to install a new one — including how to migrate your data without reinstalling Windows.

Question	Go to
What SSD type and size does my model support?	Step 1
PCIe Gen 3 vs Gen 4 — does it matter?	Step 2
How do I move my data to the new SSD?	Step 3
Will upgrading SSD void my warranty?	Step 4
How do I physically install the new SSD?	Step 5

Step 1: Find the SSD type supported by your model

Visit service.geekompc.com, search for your model, and check the storage specification. The key details to look for are:

Form factor: M.2 2280 (most common, 80mm long) or M.2 2242 (42mm long, used in some compact models)
Interface: PCIe NVMe (fast) or SATA (slower, used in older models)
Generation: PCIe Gen 3 or Gen 4

Common SSD specifications by series:

Series	M.2 slot	Interface	Max capacity
IT15, IT13 MAX	2280	PCIe Gen 4 NVMe	2 TB
IT13, IT12	2280	PCIe Gen 4 NVMe	2 TB
A8 Max, A9 Max	2280	PCIe Gen 4 NVMe	2 TB
A6, A7 Max	2280	PCIe Gen 4 NVMe	2 TB
A5, Mini IT11	2280	PCIe Gen 3 NVMe	2 TB
Mini Air12	2242	PCIe Gen 3 NVMe	1 TB

Important: Always verify the exact specification for your model on the official website before purchasing. Some models have two M.2 slots — one for the primary NVMe SSD and one for a secondary SATA SSD (2.5" HDD bay models). Check your model's spec page for details.

Step 2: PCIe Gen 3 vs Gen 4 — compatibility and performance

PCIe Gen 4 SSDs are backward compatible with Gen 3 slots, and Gen 3 SSDs work in Gen 4 slots. You will not damage the device by mixing generations — the SSD will simply run at the lower speed.

For maximum performance: Use a Gen 4 SSD in a Gen 4 slot (e.g. Samsung 990 Pro, WD Black SN850X).
For best value: A Gen 3 SSD in a Gen 4 slot works perfectly and costs less (e.g. Samsung 970 EVO Plus, WD Blue SN570).
Do not use SATA M.2 in an NVMe-only slot — check the slot type before purchasing. Most GEEKOM models use NVMe-only slots.

Step 3: Move your data to the new SSD

You have two options: clone the existing drive (keeps all data and Windows activation) or do a clean reinstall.

Option A — Clone (recommended, no data loss):

Connect the new SSD via a USB-to-M.2 enclosure (available on Amazon for ~$10–15).
Download free cloning software such as Macrium Reflect Free or AOMEI Backupper.
Clone the existing drive to the new SSD. The process takes 15–60 minutes depending on data size.
Shut down, swap the SSD, and boot — Windows will activate automatically.

Option B — Clean reinstall:

Back up your important files to an external drive.
Install the new SSD.
Reinstall Windows using a USB drive. See: How to reinstall Windows on GEEKOM.

Step 4: Does upgrading SSD void the warranty?

No. SSD and RAM upgrades performed by the user do not void the GEEKOM 3-year warranty, provided the upgrade does not cause physical damage to the device. GEEKOM Mini PCs are designed to be user-upgradeable.

If you are unsure about opening your specific model, contact GEEKOM Customer Service before proceeding.

Step 5: Install the new SSD

Power off the device completely and disconnect the power adapter.
Open the bottom cover (typically 4 screws on the underside).
Locate the M.2 slot. Remove the small retaining screw at the end of the slot.
If replacing an existing SSD, slide it out at a slight angle.
Insert the new SSD at a 30-degree angle, aligning the notch with the key in the slot. Press it down flat.
Replace the retaining screw — do not overtighten.
Reassemble the bottom cover, reconnect power, and start the device.
If you cloned the drive, Windows should boot normally. If you installed a blank SSD, boot from your Windows USB installer.

Tip: If the new SSD is not detected after installation, reseat it — it may not be fully inserted. Also confirm the SSD interface (NVMe vs SATA) matches your model's slot type.

Recommended SSD brands

Samsung — 990 Pro (Gen 4), 970 EVO Plus (Gen 3)
WD (Western Digital) — WD Black SN850X (Gen 4), WD Blue SN570 (Gen 3)
Crucial — P5 Plus (Gen 4), P3 (Gen 3)
Kingston — KC3000 (Gen 4), NV2 (Gen 3)

Note: GEEKOM ships OEM Kingston SSDs in some models. These are custom firmware versions and may not be recognized by Kingston SSD Manager — this is normal and does not affect performance or reliability.