Creators and modders have found remarkable ways to utilize the Raspberry Pi, despite its limitations, particularly in storage. The Raspberry Pi primarily operates using a microSD card, which often falls short for those needing additional space.
To address this, users can enhance their systems by integrating an M.2 drive with a compatible “hat” board. This allows for greater storage capacity, making the Raspberry Pi more versatile for various applications.
Recently, the official Raspberry Pi shop has taken a significant step by introducing compatible SSDs along with the hardware needed for integration. This development simplifies the process for users, as they no longer need to search for third-party solutions.
The announcement on RaspberryPi.com revealed the availability of officially branded NVMe drives paired with the M.2 HAT+ upgrade board, creating a convenient option for those looking to boost their storage capabilities.
Raspberry Pi Enhances Storage Options with Officially Branded SSDs and HAT Boards
The new drives are available in two sizes—256GB and 512GB—and are designed in the compact 2230 format, measuring 30mm long, which fits seamlessly into the HAT+ add-on board for the Raspberry Pi 5. The pricing is set at $30 for the 256GB model and $45 for the 512GB model. Additionally, users can purchase the HAT+ module for an extra $10, providing a straightforward package for expanding storage.
These drives will soon be available through Raspberry Pi’s retail partners, with pre-order options already listed on PiShop.us, which includes a minor surcharge. The smaller drive and its bundle are available for immediate purchase, while the larger drive and bundle are expected to ship by the end of November.
For those eager to upgrade their systems sooner, they can opt to buy the HAT+ separately and install either a 30mm or 42mm drive of their choice.
