Is M.2 a data transfer protocol while NVMe is a form factor?

The statement is false because M.2 is not a data transfer protocol, but rather a specification for a form factor that allows for the installation of expansion cards, including SSDs. It defines the physical dimensions and connectors used in various devices. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express), on the other hand, is indeed a data transfer protocol specifically designed to leverage the advantages of high-speed flash storage. NVMe is optimized for low latency and high input/output operations per second (IOPS), which enhances performance when accessing data stored in SSDs.

Therefore, understanding the distinction between M.2 as a form factor and NVMe as a protocol is crucial in identifying how these two interact in the environment of modern storage solutions. M.2 SSDs can use the NVMe protocol to achieve top performance, but the two are fundamentally different in their definitions and functions.