Can I simply put an m.2 SATA SSD in one of the m.2 slots in my HP ENVY 750-625Rz Desktop PC X6B97AA?

[smd85]

I was hoping to install an m.2 with a separate OS into one of the empty m.2 expansion slots. After some research, I was able to learn that my desktop does not support NVMe m.2 ssd, but does support SATA m.2 ssd- though I had read that I would need to disconnect the graphics card? or that I wouldn't be able to use the graphics card when running off the m.2 ssd OS. The m.2 I would install would be used for a gaming OS, which is why I would prefer to retain use of the graphics card.

Thank you.

[Bill_To]

Greetings @smd85 

Welcome to the HP Forum.

It is very difficult to check HP MB specs these days. I can't find any HP provided MB info for your PC.

But I have never seen using an M.2 drive taking out the entire PCIe x16 slot. Some M.2 drives share PCIe lanes with other PCIe x4 slots and may disable one or two MB SATA data connections. PCIe lane sharing depends upon the MB chipset.

I can only suggest doing a 2.5 Inch SATA SSD if the PC's MB only supports M.2 SATA. Again, can't find any MB specs. The MB would have to have an open SATA data connector for the second SATA drive. The PSU would need an open SATA power connector.

M.2 SATA would not be any faster than a 2.5 inch SATA SSD.

You should be able to use the graphics card if you do a 2.5 inch SATA SSD.

Regards