The Raspberry Pi ecosystem just got an exciting new addition — the M.2 HAT+ Compact, a smaller and more versatile version of the popular M.2 HAT+ for the Raspberry Pi 5. Priced at only $15, this compact board lets you install a 2230-format (30mm) M.2 PCIe card directly inside the official Raspberry Pi 5 case, neatly tucked between the cooling fan and the USB connectors.
Whether you bring your own PCIe device or use one of Raspberry Pi’s official 2230 NVMe SSDs, this new accessory makes it easier than ever to unlock faster storage and I/O performance without sacrificing space or aesthetics.
When the Raspberry Pi 5 launched two years ago, one of its most talked-about new features was the PCIe interface exposed via a small FPC connector. Since then, third-party adapters and Raspberry Pi’s own M.2 HAT+ (launched in May last year) have allowed users to add PCIe-based expansion, including NVMe SSDs and AI accelerators.
But there was a catch:
- The standard M.2 HAT+ works great in larger enclosures or uncased setups.
- It doesn’t fit neatly into the official Raspberry Pi 5 case when the fan is installed.
That’s where the Compact variant comes in. By replacing the traditional FPC cable and socket with a flex-rigid PCB, Raspberry Pi engineers have managed to squeeze an M.2 slot into the tight space inside the case — while still keeping room for the cooling fan.
Key Features
- Compact Design – Fits seamlessly into the official Raspberry Pi 5 case with the fan installed.
- Supports 2230-format PCIe devices – Perfect for NVMe SSDs and other PCIe expansions.\
- Flex-Rigid PCB Technology – A first for Raspberry Pi, eliminating bulky connectors and saving space.
- Affordable – Available now for just $15, making it one of the most cost-effective ways to expand Raspberry Pi 5 storage.
- Improved I/O Performance – Boosts your Pi’s data speeds with NVMe SSD support.
The M.2 HAT+ Compact is a natural companion for:
- NVMe SSDs – Use it with Raspberry Pi’s official 2230 SSDs for faster boot times and expanded storage.
- AI Accelerators – Leverage PCIe devices for machine learning workloads.
- Custom PCIe Projects – Experiment with other low-power PCIe devices in the 2230 form factor.
This compact form factor finally allows Raspberry Pi enthusiasts to combine performance, cooling, and aesthetics — all inside the official case.
Availability
The M.2 HAT+ Compact is available now for $15 through Raspberry Pi’s official store and authorized resellers.
👉 Get the M.2 HAT+ Compact here
The M.2 HAT+ Compact is a perfect example of engineering efficiency — delivering high-speed PCIe storage expansion while maintaining compatibility with the official Raspberry Pi 5 case. If you’ve been waiting for a clean, compact solution for NVMe storage on your Pi, this is the upgrade to grab.
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