Storage · medium

How to fix NVMe drive degraded to PCIe x2 speed

Error code: NVME-PCIE-DEMOTION

What this error means

The M.2 SSD runs at half speed due to shared PCIe lanes with the GPU or chipset.

Updated

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Move the SSD to the M.2 slot directly on the CPU (labeled CPU_M.2 or PCIe Gen4x4)
  1. Move the SSD to the M.2 slot directly on the CPU (labeled CPU_M.2 or PCIe Gen4x4)
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
02Check the board manual which slots share the PCIe lines
  1. Check the board manual which slots share the PCIe lines
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
03Check the speed in CrystalDiskMark
  1. Check the speed in CrystalDiskMark
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors

Possible causes

  • The GPU in the primary slot takes the PCIe lines from the M.2 slot
  • Chipset M.2 port limitation (PCH vs CPU lanes)
  • Incorrect PCIe Bifurcation setting in BIOS