An M.2 SSD (Solid State Drive) is a smaller and faster version of the regular 2.5 inch SSDs.

Some of the major differences between the two are as follows:

1. M.2 SSD usually uses a PCIe-Based connection, which makes it quicker then a regular 2.5 inch SSD. A 2.5 inch SSD tends to transfer data using a SATA connector, which has limitations in speed.
2. An M.2 SSD looks like a computer chip, almost like a RAM memory stick. It is much smaller then a regular SSD, which allows manufactures to save space on laptops and desktop computers.
3. An M.2 SSD is generally more expensive then a regular SSD.
4. An M.2 SSD can use NVMe technology, which increases the read/write speed.

As you can see, there are clear benefits to using an M.2 SSD however it tends to be more expensive. If you are someone who copies a lot of pictures, renders videos, or works with large amount of data then it may be the right option for you.