author avatar
5 July 2025  Amanda J. Brook  Senior Product Manager
Last update by James Smith at 6 July 2025

Summary
This Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade guide for 2025 breaks down the process of expanding storage and boosting speed, giving gamers clear instructions to maximize performance and enjoy faster load times with the latest NVMe technology.



Table of contents

table iconUnderstanding Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade Options
table iconStep 1: Choosing the Right SSD for Your Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade
table iconStep 2: Complete Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade Tutorial
table iconThe Bottom Line
table iconFrequently Asked Questions About Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade
2025-07-05 Updated: This Guide contains information and physical pictures for you to upgrade SSD for Legion 5/5i/Slim 7i/Legion Pro 5i,5/Legion Pro 7i/Legion 9i.
Supercharge your Lenovo Legion in 2025 with a cutting-edge SSD upgrade. Whether you’re battling slow boot times, running low on space for massive game libraries, or craving the blazing speed of next-gen NVMe technology, this guide delivers everything you need—from hardware insights to step-by-step installation—for a seamless, high-performance upgrade tailored to gamers.
lenovo legion gaming 

Understanding Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade Options

❓Common Question: What are my options for performing a Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade?
✅Complete Answer: The good news is that Lenovo Legion laptops offer exceptional upgrade flexibility. Most models feature multiple storage expansion options, making your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade project highly customizable.
Will upgrading the SSD void my warranty?

Generally, no. As long as the device isn’t damaged during the upgrade process, replacing the SSD does not void the warranty. Lenovo officially encourages users to upgrade components such as memory and SSD, and detailed instructions can be found in the user manual. However, any damage caused during the upgrade process may not be covered under warranty.

Note: Not all models support user upgrades — some ultrabooks may feature soldered memory or non-removable SSDs. For specific details, please contact your notebook dealer.

Reference:
https://forums.lenovo.com/t5/Gaming-Laptops/Opening-the-laptop-and-upgrading-SSD-and-RAM-void-the-warranty/m-p/5085192 https://www.reddit.com/r/LegionGo/comments/1aztv77/would_upgrading_storage_void_warranty/

Your Legion typically includes:

🔧 Dual M.2 NVMe slots (supporting both M.2 2242 and M.2 2280 form factors)
🔧 Traditional 2.5-inch drive bay for additional storage
🔧 PCIe 4.0 compatibility for cutting-edge performance
For further details, please refer to the tables below:
SeriesKey FeaturesSSD Interface(s) & SlotsMemory Type & SlotsPhysical Image

Legion 5 (2025)

Mid-range gaming, OLED display, excellent thermals

- 2× M.2 slots (typically one M.2 2242 and one M.2 2280, both PCIe NVMe Gen 4)


- Some models: 1× 2.5" SATA HDD/SSD bay (shared space with M.2 slot)

- DDR4-3200 (or DDR5-5600 in newer models)

- 2 SO-DIMM slots


- Default: 16GB or 32GB

- Max: 64GB

Click to view

Legion 5i

Intel-based version of Legion 5, similar design and performance

- 2× M.2 2280 PCIe NVMe


- Some models: 1× 2.5" SATA HDD/SSD bay (not usable with second M.2 simultaneously)

- DDR4-2933 or DDR4-3200

- 2 SO-DIMM slots


- Default: 8GB or 16GB

- Max: 64GB

Click to view

Legion Slim 7i

Lightweight, portable, ideal for creators and gamers on the go

- 2× M.2 2280 PCIe NVMe (Gen 4)


- No 2.5" SATA bay

- DDR5-5600

- 2 SO-DIMM slots


- Default: 16GB

- Max: 64GB

Click to view

Legion Pro 5i/5

High-performance gaming, customizable RGB, advanced cooling

- 2× M.2 2280 PCIe NVMe (Gen 4)


- No SATA bay

- DDR5-5600

- 2 SO-DIMM slots


- Default: 16GB or 32GB

- Max: 64GB

Click to view

Legion Pro 7i

Desktop-class performance, ideal for hardcore gamers and professionals

- 2× M.2 2280 PCIe NVMe (Gen 4)


- No SATA bay

- DDR5-5600

- 2 SO-DIMM slots


- Default: 32GB

- Max: 64GB

Click to view

Legion 9i

Premium build, AI-enhanced, 3D display support

- 2× M.2 2280 PCIe NVMe (Gen 4)


- Up to 8TB SSD supported

- DDR5-5600

- 2 SO-DIMM slots


- Default: 32GB

- Max: 192GB

Click to view

Understanding your specific Legion model’s configuration is crucial for planning your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade. The comparison table above helps you identify exactly what storage expansion options are available for your particular system.
Tips: Explanation: 2.5″ SATA Support in Legion 5 / 5i

Shared Space Design: In many Legion 5 and 5i models, the internal layout allows either: A second M.2 SSD, or A 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD, but not both simultaneously.

Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade Solutions

Based on the information above, I’ve outlined 3 Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade solutions for you:
Option 1: Complete SSD Replacement
Replace your existing drive with a higher-capacity or faster model. This approach works perfectly when you want to maintain a clean, single-drive setup while dramatically improving performance.
Option 2: Dual-Drive Configuration
Keep your current SSD as-is and add a second drive for expanded storage. This strategy is ideal for gamers who need massive storage capacity for their game libraries while maintaining system responsiveness.
Option 3: HDD-to-SSD Migration
If your Legion still uses a traditional hard drive as the primary storage, replacing it with an SSD will deliver the most dramatic performance boost imaginable.

Step 1 : Choosing the Right SSD for Your Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade

Selecting the perfect drive for your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade requires understanding the performance characteristics and compatibility requirements of different SSD technologies. The market offers numerous excellent options, each with distinct advantages.

High-Performance PCIe 4.0 Options for Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade:

Interface StandardRecommended Models

PCIe 4.0 NVMe

• Samsung 980 Pro(up to 7,450 MB/s read)

• WD Black SN850X(up to 7,300 MB/s read)

• Crucial P5 Plus(up to 7,400 MB/s read)

• Seagate FireCuda 530(up to 7,300 MB/s read)

• Kingston Fury Renegade(up to 7,300 MB/s read)

PCIe 3.0 NVMe

• Samsung 970 EVO Plus(up to 5,000 MB/s read)

• WD Blue SN570

• Crucial P3(up to 5,000 MB/s read)

PCIe 4.0 drives represent the pinnacle of consumer SSD technology, offering read speeds exceeding 7,000 MB/s. These drives excel in your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade if your laptop supports Gen4 connectivity. However, they typically command premium pricing.
PCIe 3.0 drives provide exceptional value while still delivering significant performance improvements over traditional storage. These drives work universally across all Legion models and offer excellent price-to-performance ratios for most users.
Storage capacity options typically range from 500GB to 2TB, with some manufacturers offering even larger capacities. Consider your specific usage patterns, budget constraints, and future storage needs when selecting the capacity for your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade.

Step 2 : Complete Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade Tutorial

Successfully completing your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade depends on your specific goals and current hardware configuration. Adding a second drive to an empty slot requires minimal technical expertise, while replacing your primary drive involves additional steps to ensure seamless operation.

Essential System Migration Tool for Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade

When you’re planning to replace your primary drive or migrate from HDD to SSD, the success of your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade depends heavily on having the right migration software. Renee Becca emerges as the industry-leading solution specifically designed for comprehensive system and hard disk data backup and restoration tasks.
Renee Becca – Safe and Quick System Migration to SSD

Automatic 4K alignment Improves SSD performance during system migration.

Support GPT and MBR Automatically adapt to the suitable partition format.

Support NTFS and FAT32 Redeploy various files in different file systems.

Back up quickly Back up files at up to 3,000MB/min.

Overall backup schedule Support system redeployment/system backup/partition backup/disk backup/disk clone.

Automatic 4K alignment Improve SSD performance

Support GPT and MBR Intelligently adapt to a partition format

Support NTFS and FAT32 Redeploy files in different file systems

Free TrialFree TrialNow 56337 people have downloaded!
Tips: Always back up your data before proceeding to prevent data loss.
This sophisticated tool excels at efficiently backing up and restoring essential computer data, including programs, system configurations, emails, photos, videos, documents, and bookmarks. For your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade project, Renee Becca provides three distinct cloning methodologies: hard disk cloning, partition cloning, and system migration. You can select the most appropriate method based on your specific upgrade requirements and technical comfort level.

Phase 1: Installing Your New SSD

Before starting your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade, confirm your model’s slot configuration (e.g., M.2 2242 or 2280) by checking the official Lenovo documentation or inspecting the internal layout. Most 2025 Legion models feature two M.2 slots supporting PCIe NVMe Gen 4. Follow these steps to install a new drive:
1️⃣ Prepare your workspace: Power off your Legion, unplug all cables, and work on a static-free surface to avoid damaging components.
2️⃣ Access internal components: Remove the bottom panel using a Phillips screwdriver. Most Legion models use standard screws, but some may have different fastener types. Refer to your model’s user manual for specific screw types.
Removing the bottom panel of a Lenovo Legion laptop, showing screw locations and panel removal
3️⃣ Locate the installation point: Find the empty M.2 slot on your motherboard. It will typically be marked and may include a mounting screw.
To help you identify the storage slots in your Lenovo Legion model, below are placeholders for images showing the internal layouts of popular series:

Legion 5 / Legion 5i:

Internal view of Legion 5/5i showing M.2 slots

Legion Slim 7i:

Internal view of Legion Slim 7i showing M.2 slots

Legion Pro 5i / 5:

Internal view of Legion Pro 5i / 5 showing M.2 slots

Legion Pro 7i:

Internal view of Legion Pro 7i showing M.2 slots

Legion 9i:

Internal view of Legion 9i showing M.2 slots
These images will help you locate the M.2 slots and other components relevant to your SSD upgrade. Always consult your model’s user manual for precise slot configurations.
4️⃣ Install the new SSD: Insert the drive at a 30-degree angle, then press down and secure with the provided screw.
How to Install an M.2 SSD
If you’re connecting an external drive temporarily for cloning purposes, use a USB-to-M.2 adapter or external enclosure to connect your new SSD via USB.
usb ssd / disk enclosure

Phase 2: System Migration with Renee Becca for Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade

For a complete Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade involving system migration, Renee Becca provides the most reliable and efficient solution. This professional-grade software makes it incredibly convenient to migrate your Windows system to a new hard disk, transforming it into a fully functional system drive.

Step 1. Download and install Renee Becca on your PC/laptop.

null

Step 2. Use suitable functions to transfer your data and system.

In this step, you have two choices, they are :
Function NameFeatureSuitable For

Hard Disk Clone/Clone System Disk

Creates an exact copy of the selected disk, supports adjusting partition size by moving the partition boundary with the mouse, and enables starting the cloned hard disk.

Complete SSD Replacement

System Redeploy

Support to only migrate the Windows system partition to another hard disk.

Dual-Drive Configuration, HDD-to-SSD Migration

Option 1: Clone the Entire Drive Using the “Hard Disk Clone” Feature
If your original drive contains both system and data partitions, you can use the “Hard Disk Clone/Clone System Disk” option found under the “Clone” section of the main interface. This feature copies all partitions and volumes—including both system and user data—to your new target drive in full.
renee becca disk clone
1. Configure Source and Destination Drives.
Next, select the original disk to be cloned and the pre-replaced hard disk in the (source) and (Destination) pop-up window of “hard disk clone” .” Choose your laptop’s internal hard drive as the source and your connected external USB drive or another drive as the target location. This step is crucial for ensuring the clone hard drive process targets the correct devices.
clone the hard disk
2. Configure Advanced Settings and Begin Cloning.
Before starting the clone laptop hard drive operation, Renee Becca provides customization options through these advanced features:
- ‘Copy all the sectors’ capability
This feature enables selective cloning when transferring your laptop’s hard drive to another drive, helping to prevent damaged sectors from being copied to the destination. In some cases, software may store license information in reserved sectors, which are usually skipped during a standard cloning process—this option ensures even those areas are included.
- Universal disk type compatibility.
Renee Becca maintains compatibility with diverse HDDs, SSDs, and USB devices. Regardless of your specific hard drive and USB combination, you can successfully clone laptop hard drive to another.
- Customizable disk layout configuration.
You can resize the partition by clicking and dragging its edge with your mouse based on your specific requirements when you clone laptop hard drive to another.
adjust partitions
Finally, Once you’ve configured your preferred settings, click the “Clone” button to begin the cloning process.
Option 2: For system-only cloning, use the ‘System Redeploy’ function to save time.
Launch the application and select the “System Redeploy” option in the main interface under the “Clone” column. This feature is specifically designed for migrating your entire Windows system to a new drive.
select system redeploy function in clone
Choose your new SSD as the target location and select your current system partition as the source.
This step is crucial for a successful sytem redeploy process, so double-check your selections to avoid any data loss.
select a destination to redeploy system with renee becca
Finally, Click the Redeploy button to initiate the cloning process.
The software will begin transferring your entire system, including the operating system, applications, settings, and personal files to the new SSD. Monitor the progress carefully during this critical phase of your upgrade.

Step 3. Wait for the progress bar to reach 100% to indicate successful migration.

The duration depends on your source disk’s data volume, typically ranging from 30 minutes to several hours. Once completed, your new SSD will contain an exact copy of your original system, ready for your next operations.
Important Note: For system redeploy, the total capacity of the new drive needs to be greater than the size of the system partition being migrated. For hard disk clone, it should be at least as large as the used space on the source disk. Since all data on the target disk will be erased during the system migration, please verify that you’ve selected the correct target drive and backup any important data beforehand. If you want to migrate all data from the original system drive (not just the system partition) to the new drive, you can choose the hard disk clone function instead.

Step 4. Use software like CrystalDiskInfo to verify your new drive status.

CrystalDiskInfo - Monitors the health and status of your hard drives and SSDs using S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) data. In short, It helps users quickly identify second-hand or fake SSDs.
how to check ssd health with crystaldiskinfo
CrystalDiskMark - Measures the read/write speed of storage devices to evaluate performance. It helps you to confirm your SSD configuration is correct.
raid 0 speed
Important Considerations for Your Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade:The total capacity of your new SSD must exceed the size of the system being migrated. Additionally, since all data on the target disk will be erased during the system migration process, verify that your target disk doesn’t contain important data, and create file backups in advance. If you prefer to migrate all data from your original system drive (not just the system partition) to the new SSD, you can alternatively choose the hard disk clone function for a complete Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade. For more information about SSD, you can visit the relevant Wikipedia page.

Phase 3: Completing Your Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade

After successful migration, finalize your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade with these steps:
Step 1: Power down your Legion and carefully install the cloned SSD in the primary M.2 slot, replacing the original drive if necessary.
Step 2: Boot your system and immediately access BIOS settings (typically F2, F8, F10, F12, or Delete key during startup).
Lenovo Legion boot up menu
Step 3: Navigate to the Boot configuration section and prioritize your new SSD in the boot order, ensuring your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade boots from the correct drive.
Lenovo Legion boot order menu
Step 4: Save BIOS changes and restart your system.
If Windows loads successfully, your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade is complete! You should notice immediate improvements in boot times, application loading, and overall system responsiveness.

The Bottom Line

Completing a Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade transforms your gaming laptop into a high-performance powerhouse. Whether you’re expanding storage capacity or maximizing transfer speeds with cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, this upgrade delivers tangible benefits for gaming, content creation, and productivity tasks.
Renee Becca emerges as the definitive solution for seamless system migration during your Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade. This robust software ensures perfect replication of your Windows environment, eliminating the need for time-consuming reinstallation procedures. Whether you’re upgrading to a larger drive or transitioning to faster NVMe technology, Renee Becca supports all major SSD types and configurations with intuitive, user-friendly operation.
Renee Becca – Safe and Quick System Migration to SSD

Automatic 4K alignment Improves SSD performance during system migration.

Support GPT and MBR Automatically adapt to the suitable partition format.

Support NTFS and FAT32 Redeploy various files in different file systems.

Back up quickly Back up files at up to 3,000MB/min.

Overall backup schedule Support system redeployment/system backup/partition backup/disk backup/disk clone.

Automatic 4K alignment Improve SSD performance

Support GPT and MBR Intelligently adapt to a partition format

Support NTFS and FAT32 Redeploy files in different file systems

Free TrialFree TrialNow 56337 people have downloaded!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lenovo Legion SSD Upgrade

Can I upgrade the SSD in my Lenovo Legion?

Absolutely! Every Lenovo Legion model supports SSD upgrades. You can replace existing drives with higher-capacity or faster models, or add additional drives if your system has available M.2 slots. Popular choices for Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade projects include high-performance drives like the Samsung 980 Pro and WD Black SN850X. Use professional cloning software like Renee Becca to ensure seamless system migration.

What’s the maximum SSD capacity supported in a Lenovo Legion SSD upgrade?

While Lenovo specifications may list up to 1TB or 2TB per M.2 slot, 2025 market options allow for larger SSDs, such as 4TB or 8TB, depending on slot compatibility (M.2 2242 or 2280). Verify your model’s support via Lenovo’s documentation.

How many SSD slots does the Lenovo Legion have?

Most 2025 Lenovo Legion models feature two M.2 slots, typically one M.2 2242 and one M.2 2280, both supporting PCIe NVMe Gen 4. Some models may include a 2.5-inch bay. Check your model’s manual or internal layout for confirmation.

What is the maximum SSD capacity supported by Lenovo Legion laptops?

While Lenovo specifies up to 1TB or 2TB per M.2 slot, larger SSDs (e.g., 4TB or 8TB) may be compatible depending on the slot’s form factor. Check Lenovo’s documentation and user reviews for compatibility.
Renee Becca – Safe and Quick System Migration to SSD

Automatic 4K alignment Improves SSD performance during system migration.

Support GPT and MBR Automatically adapt to the suitable partition format.

Support NTFS and FAT32 Redeploy various files in different file systems.

Back up quickly Back up files at up to 3,000MB/min.

Overall backup schedule Support system redeployment/system backup/partition backup/disk backup/disk clone.

Automatic 4K alignment Improve SSD performance

Support GPT and MBR Intelligently adapt to a partition format

Support NTFS and FAT32 Redeploy files in different file systems

Free TrialFree TrialNow 56337 people have downloaded!

User Comments

NA
Nayte76
2025-07-17
Hey all,
What's a solid SSD upgrade for my Legion 5 Pro?
Just started PC gaming and my 512GB SSD is already at 75% capacity. Need more space! I'm new to PC stuff (long-time console gamer here).
Any recommendations for a good SSD upgrade? Thinking a 1-2TB drive should last me a while. Not sure how many M.2 slots my Legion has.
I'm pretty handy, so I can follow a YouTube tutorial for installation. Formatting is where I'm lost. Is it straightforward? If there's another slot, can I just pop in a 1TB SSD? Will the system automatically save to the new drive, or do I need to set it up manually?
Appreciate any tips!
[D
[deleted]
2025-07-17
Your Legion 5 Pro has a second M.2 slot. Any PCIe 3.0 NVMe drive will work fine. Like you said, just watch a tutorial—it's super easy. After installing, initialize the drive in Disk Management. You'll need to choose where to save files each time, but you can set game launchers (Steam, Epic, etc.) to default to the new drive.
NA
Nayte76
2025-07-20
Thanks for the fast reply! Any specific SSD you'd suggest? Not sure if some brands are better than others.
[D
[deleted]
2025-07-20
Major brands like Samsung, WD, and SK hynix are solid. I got a WD Black SN570 'cause it was a good deal at the time—performs just as well as the stock drive.
Edit: Assuming you have a 2025 Legion 5 Pro with an AMD Ryzen 7 5800H, stick with PCIe 3.0 NVMe for compatibility. A PCIe 4.0 drive will work but run at 3.0 speeds. If you have an Intel-based model, PCIe 4.0 is an option for faster performance.
NA
Nayte76
2025-07-22
Thanks for all the info! Not sure which gen my Legion is, but I bought it recently.
Specs:
Operating System: Windows 11 Home
Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
Display: 16" QHD IPS LCD w/ LED Backlight 100% sRGB (Anti-glare) 165Hz, HDR 400
Memory: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz
Storage: 512GB NVMe TLC SSD
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
Optical Drive: None
Audio: 2 x 2W Speakers
Battery: Up to 4.2 Hours
Wireless: 2 x 2 802.11AX Wi-Fi with Bluetooth 5
Webcam: 720P Camera and dual array Microphone
Weight: 5.39 lbs
[D
[deleted]
2025-07-22
Yup, your AMD Ryzen 7 5800H only supports PCIe 3.0 NVMe drives, so stick with those for best compatibility. They're usually cheaper than 4.0 anyway. A 4.0 drive will work but won't hit full speed. Check prices to decide.
NA
Nayte76
2025-07-25
Awesome, that's exactly what I needed to know. Thanks a bunch!
[D
[deleted]
2025-07-25
No prob! Enjoy that beast of a machine!
NA
Nayte76
2025-08-02
It's freakin' awesome, loving it so far.
0S
0sdp
2025-08-06
How do I tell if my Legion 5 Pro is a 2024 or 2025 model? It's the white RTX 3070 version.
MA
madisonblackwellanl
2025-08-06
Just flip your laptop over and check the manufacture date on the label! ;)
[D
[deleted]
2025-08-12
2024 models have Ryzen 7000 or Intel 13th Gen. 2025 models have Ryzen 8000 or Intel 14th Gen.
NA
Nayte76
2025-08-12
Adding to this thread since it's about upgrades—what's a good 16GB RAM upgrade for the Legion 5 Pro?
NA
Nayte76
2025-08-16
Thanks for all the help, folks!
Decided to go with the Samsung 970 EVO Plus for my SSD upgrade.
AF
Afraid_Blacksmith_63
2025-08-16
Hey, jumping in a bit later—how's the Samsung 970 EVO Plus working out? Any heat issues or other problems?
NA
Nayte76
2025-08-16
Runs like a dream, no heat issues at all.
FR
Frosty_Cringe
2025-08-18

Samsung 970 EVO Plus

Why'd you pick this one? I'm looking to upgrade my Legion 5 Pro too.
RJ
rjms34657
2025-08-18
2TB Samsung 970 EVO Plus
TH
TheDumbass0
2025-08-21
Just got the 2TB 970 EVO Plus for my Legion 5—couldn't be happier!
VE
Vegetable_Access_611
2025-08-21
Still running smooth?
Page 1

Leave a Comment


Your comment has been submitted and is awaiting moderation.