This thumb-sized accessory doubled my PC storage - here's how it works

This M.2 storage drive expands your PC's storage by up to 2TB with a simple slot-in installation. It also features two small fans to maintain optimal cooling.

• PNY 1TB CS3150 M.2 storage drive, available for around $170.
• Overall, it's a fast M.2 drive with active cooling to keep running temperatures below the maximum rated temperature.
• The heatsink makes the drive rather bulky, and you will need a 4-pin fan header on the motherboard to power the fans.

In the not-so-distant past, the solution for speed-boosting an aging and sluggish PC was to add more RAM or upgrade the processor. Now, the way to sail over that speed bump involves getting a new storage drive, and there's no better storage upgrade when it comes to performance than fitting your system with an M.2 drive.

Also: I tested the world's smallest SSD with my ...