Overview

The TEAMGROUP MP44Q is a 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD that strikes an impressive balance between capacity and affordability. It leverages a PCIe Gen4x4 interface to deliver sequential read speeds of up to 7,000MB/s and write speeds of up to 5,900MB/s, making it a strong contender for gamers and users who need bulk storage without breaking the bank.
Built on 3D QLC NAND flash, the MP44Q achieves its large capacity at a lower cost per gigabyte compared to TLC-based drives. It employs a DRAM-less design with Host Memory Buffer (HMB) support and SLC caching to mitigate the typical write slowdowns associated with QLC. A patented graphene heat spreader keeps temperatures in check without adding bulk, ensuring compatibility with motherboard heatsinks.
Positioned as an entry-to-mid-range storage solution, the MP44Q is ideal for secondary storage, game libraries, or as a budget-friendly primary drive for users who prioritize capacity over extreme write endurance. It comes with a 5-year warranty and is available through major retailers.

Compatibility Guide

The MP44Q uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor and requires an M.2 slot with NVMe support. It is fully backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 slots, though speeds will be limited to around 3,500MB/s in that configuration. The drive works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and is also compatible with the PlayStation 5 (though a separate heatsink may be required for PS5 use).
Before purchasing, verify that your motherboard or laptop has an available M.2 slot and that the slot supports NVMe (not just SATA). Some older chipsets may not support HMB, which could impact performance. The graphene label is thin enough to fit under most motherboard heatsinks without interference.

Product Info

The TEAMGROUP MP44Q launched in 2024 and is available in 2TB capacity. Pricing typically falls between $100 and $150 USD depending on the retailer and ongoing promotions. The drive is backed by a 5-year limited warranty (or until the TBW limit is reached), with support available in Japan and other regions.
Market positioning is entry-to-mid-range. The use of QLC NAND and a DRAM-less controller keeps costs low, while PCIe Gen4 speeds ensure snappy everyday performance. Power consumption is typical for an NVMe SSD, with no separate TDP rating published.

Best Use Cases

  • Gamers needing a large game library
    Modern AAA titles often exceed 100GB. With 2TB of space, you can install dozens of games without constantly shuffling files. Fast read speeds reduce level-loading times. However, if you frequently write large files (e.g., recording gameplay), a TLC drive may be more suitable.
  • Budget-conscious users seeking a secondary drive
    Pair the MP44Q with a fast TLC SSD for your OS and applications, and use this drive for bulk storage of media, documents, and game installations. It offers excellent value per gigabyte for data that doesn't require constant rewriting.
  • Laptop storage upgrades
    The slim graphene heat spreader makes the MP44Q a good fit for laptops with limited clearance. As long as your laptop has an M.2 NVMe slot, installation is straightforward. Check your laptop's manual for supported SSD heights and slot locations.

Things to Consider

The MP44Q uses QLC NAND, which has lower write endurance compared to TLC drives. While the exact TBW for the 2TB model is not officially published, it is expected to be lower than that of a comparable TLC SSD. Heavy write workloads (e.g., video editing, database servers) may wear out the drive faster.
Being DRAM-less, performance can drop in systems where HMB is not supported or disabled. After the SLC cache fills up, sustained write speeds will decrease significantly. For users who frequently transfer large files, a TLC drive with DRAM cache might be a better choice.
Competitors in the same price range include the Crucial P3 Plus and WD Blue SN580, which offer TLC NAND and potentially better write endurance. The MP44Q's advantage lies in its lower cost per terabyte, making it ideal for read-heavy workloads.

FAQ

Q: Can I use this SSD as a boot drive?
A: Yes, it works fine as a boot drive. Boot times and application launches are fast thanks to the high sequential read speeds. However, because QLC NAND has lower write endurance, consider using a TLC drive for the OS if you perform frequent large writes (e.g., system updates, cache files). Regular backups are recommended.
Q: Does it work with the PlayStation 5?
A: Yes, the MP44Q meets the PS5's minimum speed requirement of 5,500MB/s. You will need to install a separate heatsink (not included) as the PS5 requires one for internal M.2 SSDs. The graphene label alone may not be sufficient for the console's thermal environment.
Q: How does it compare to a TLC SSD like the Samsung 990 EVO?
A: The MP44Q is significantly cheaper per gigabyte but offers lower write endurance and slower sustained

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: TEAMGROUP
  • Seller: TEAMGROUP【公式ストア】
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon
  • ASIN: B0CZMZQ8MW
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.