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Choosing the best 120gb ssd can be tough. The top pick is the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB. It offers amazing speeds up to 7,450 MB/s. For a budget option, the Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 SSD is a solid choice, but you give up some speed and size. Many buyers face a choice between speed and capacity. This page gives you detailed comparisons to help.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
This roundup highlights the best 120gb ssd options available today. You will find a mix of performance, price, and features.
1. Editor’s Choice
Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB, PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, Up to 7,450 MB/s
- MEET THE NEXT GEN: Consider this a cheat code; Our Samsung 990 PRO Gen4 SSD helps you reach near max performance with lightning-fast speeds; Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a tech guru, you’ll get power efficiency built for the final boss
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; With a more than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO, it’s here for heavy computing and faster loading
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S FLASH MEMORY BRAND: The speed you need for any occasion; With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s you’ll reach near max performance of PCIe 4.0 powering through for any use
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB; Sync all your saves and reign supreme in gaming, video editing, data analysis and more
- IT’S A POWER MOVE: Save the power for your performance; Get power efficiency all while experiencing up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO; It makes every move more effective with less consumption
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB offers incredible speed and power efficiency. With PCIe 4.0 technology, it reaches speeds up to 7,450 MB/s. This makes it suitable for gamers and tech enthusiasts who need fast storage.
Pros
Fast read and write speeds. Great power efficiency. Suitable for high-performance tasks.
Cons
May be overkill for casual users. Higher price than basic options.
Best for gamers and professionals needing high-speed storage.
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB is an excellent choice for those seeking speed and efficiency.
2. Best Compact
Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, IP65 Water and Dust Resistance, Updated Firmware, External Solid State Drive,…
- Get NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive(1) (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device & other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating(3) (Previously rated for 2-meter drop protection and IP55 rating. Now qualified for the higher, stated specs.)
- Use the handy carabiner loop to secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
- Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.(3)
- Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app.(5). Non-Operating Temperature -20°C to 85°C
The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB is a solid choice for users needing portability. It offers up to 1,050 MB/s speeds and is IP65 rated for water and dust resistance. This makes it durable for outdoor use.
Pros
Portable design. Good speed for external SSD. Durable against water and dust.
Cons
Speed may be slower with some devices. Lacks the highest performance compared to internal SSDs.
Great for people who travel frequently and need reliable storage.
The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD 2TB is a dependable option for on-the-go users.
3. Most Versatile
Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB, PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, Up to 7,450 MB/s
- HUGE SPEED BOOST: Get random read/write speeds that are 40%/55% faster than 980 PRO; Experience up to 1400K/1550K IOPS, while sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s reach near the max performance of PCIe 4.0*
- BREAKTHROUGH POWER EFFICIENCY: Use less power and get more performance; Enjoy up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO, plus optimal power efficiency with max PCIe 4.0 performance**
- SMART THERMAL CONTROL: Samsung’s own nickel-coated controller delivers effective thermal control; With its slim size, 990 PRO is a perfect fit for desktops and laptops that meet the PCI-SIG D8 standard***
- THE CHAMPION MAKER: Up to 65% improvement in random performance enables faster loads for an ultimate gaming experience on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games****
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Get the most out of your SSD with Samsung Magician’s advanced yet intuitive optimization tools; Monitor drive health, protect valuable data, and receive important updates for your 990 PRO
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB is similar to the 2TB version. It also uses PCIe 4.0 and achieves speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s. This makes it a great choice for those wanting high performance in a smaller size.
Pros
High speeds for gaming and tasks. Compact size. Good power efficiency.
Cons
Lower capacity may not suit everyone. Price is higher than basic SSDs.
Ideal for gamers and professionals with space constraints.
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB is a strong contender for those needing superior speed.
4. Best Premium
Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD
- Capacity 256GB Latest SATA 3 Controller
- Built in end-to-end data path protection, SmartECC technology, and Thermal throttling technology
- SEQ Performance Read up to 500MB/s, Write up to 400MB/s
- 4K Aligned Random Write: up to 30K IOPs
The Patriot P210 256GB SATA SSD is a budget-friendly option. It offers decent speeds of up to 500MB/s read and 400MB/s write. This SSD is suitable for everyday computing needs.
Pros
Affordable price. Good for basic tasks. Reliable performance.
Cons
Lower speeds than NVMe SSDs. Limited capacity may not suit heavy users.
Best for users with basic storage needs and limited budgets.
The Patriot P210 256GB SATA SSD is a good choice for everyday users.
5. Best for Beginners
Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 (STGX2000400)
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
The Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive is different from SSDs. It is an external hard drive, making it suitable for large storage needs. However, it offers slower speeds compared to SSDs.
Pros
Large capacity for files. Simple setup. Budget-friendly.
Cons
Slower than SSDs. Less durable due to moving parts.
Ideal for users needing extra storage without high speed.
The Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive is a practical solution for large file storage.
6. Best for Daily Use
Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s Transfer Speeds-New Model
- NEARLY 2X FASTER THAN OUR PREVIOUS GENERATION(8) – move 1,000 high-res photos in under 60 seconds(6) with up to 2000MB/s transfer speeds(2).
- IP65 RATING AND UP TO 3M DROP PROTECTION(3) – protects against spills and drops.
- POCKET-SIZED – fits easily in pockets and small bags.
- SPACE TO OWN YOUR AI CONTENT – speed and capacity to download your high-res clips and photo edits.
- 256-BIT AES ENCRYPTION(4) – helps keep private files secure with password protection.
The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD 1TB features impressive speeds up to 2,000MB/s. It’s compact and durable, making it a strong option for users needing fast storage on the go.
Pros
Very fast transfer speeds. Compact design. Good for high-resolution content.
Cons
Higher price than some alternatives. Performance may vary with device.
Perfect for photographers and videographers needing quick access to files.
The Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD 1TB is excellent for creative professionals.
7. Best Splurge
Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD, PCIe 4.0, M.2 2280
- SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE. Make more room for your 4K videos and high-resolution images with capacities from 500GB[1] up to 4TB[1] on M.2 2280 built with our trusted 8th generation SANDISK BiCS QLC 3D CBA NAND.
- IT GOES WHERE YOU GO. With an all-new power efficient design, your drive delivers high performance with low power, giving you more time to be productive while on the go.
- UNCOMPROMISED RELIABILITY. With up to 1,200 TBW[3] (4TB[1] model) endurance rating, your drive is designed for creators.
- KEEP YOUR DRIVE UPDATED. Monitor your SSD’s performance and check for updates with the downloadable SANDISK Dashboard application.[5]
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD offers high read speeds up to 7,100MB/s. This makes it very suitable for creative tasks and applications that need speed.
Pros
High read and write speeds. Ideal for creative projects. Good capacity for most users.
Cons
Capacity may not meet heavy users’ needs. Higher price point.
Best for gamers and content creators who work with large files.
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD is a great option for performance-focused users.
8. Best for Small Spaces
Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD, PCIe 4.0, M.2 2280
- SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE. Make more room for your 4K videos and high-resolution images with capacities from 500GB[1] up to 4TB[1] on M.2 2280 built with our trusted 8th generation SANDISK BiCS QLC 3D CBA NAND.
- IT GOES WHERE YOU GO. With an all-new power efficient design, your drive delivers high performance with low power, giving you more time to be productive while on the go.
- UNCOMPROMISED RELIABILITY. With up to 1,200 TBW[3] (4TB[1] model) endurance rating, your drive is designed for creators.
- KEEP YOUR DRIVE UPDATED. Monitor your SSD’s performance and check for updates with the downloadable SANDISK Dashboard application.[5]
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD is similar to the 500GB model. It offers excellent performance with high speeds for demanding tasks. This SSD is designed for users needing fast storage.
Pros
Fast speeds for intensive tasks. Good capacity for most users. Reliable brand.
Cons
May be too expensive for casual users. Requires compatible devices.
Good for professionals and gamers looking for high-speed storage.
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD is an impressive choice for those needing speed.
Ssds Compared Side by Side
The table below compares key features of each product. It shows speed, capacity, and other important specs. Look at the rows that match what you’re looking for in the best 120gb ssd.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB | Editor's Choice | Samsung | $389.99 | Check |
| 2 | Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best Compact | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $289.99 | Check |
| 3 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB | Most Versatile | Samsung | $239.99 | Check |
| 4 | Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD | Best Premium | Patriot Memory | $37.99 | Check |
| 5 | Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 | Best for Beginners | Seagate | $129.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best for Daily Use | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $259.46 | Check |
| 7 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD | Best Splurge | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $109.99 | Check |
| 8 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD | Best for Small Spaces | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $194.46 | Check |
| 9 | PNY CS900 500GB 2.5" SATA III Internal SSD | — | PNY | $89.89 | Check |
| 10 | Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4×4 |… | — | Kingston Digital, Inc | $159 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from multiple online sources and reliable reviews. Key sources included tech websites and user reviews. This ensured we had accurate and up-to-date specs.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 20 SSDs in various capacities. We filtered them based on performance metrics, customer ratings, and brand reputation. Only the best products remained for this list.
What we ruled out and why
We removed products with low customer ratings and unreliable brands. Any SSD that had poor performance or durability was also excluded. Our focus was on reliability and speed.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted. We did not invent any performance scores either. All information is based on verified reviews and product data.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated every few months. We track changes in product specs and new releases. Regular checks ensure the recommendations remain relevant.
How to Choose Ssds
Understand the speed ratings
When choosing an SSD, pay attention to speed. Look for read and write speeds in MB/s. Higher numbers mean better performance. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 500 MB/s or more.
Consider the capacity
Capacity is key when selecting an SSD. A 120GB SSD may be enough for basic tasks. However, for gaming or large files, consider larger sizes. Aim for at least 256GB for more flexibility.
Check the connection type
Different SSDs use different connection types. M.2 and PCIe can offer faster speeds than SATA. Make sure your device supports the type of SSD you are considering.
Look for durability features
Durability matters, especially for portable SSDs. Features like water and dust resistance can protect your data. Check for ratings like IP65 for better protection.
Read user reviews
User reviews provide real-world insights. They can highlight reliability and performance. Look for consistent feedback about speed and durability in different usage scenarios.
What to look for
Speed
Speed is one of the most important factors in selecting an SSD. Look for read and write speeds listed in MB/s. A high-speed SSD will improve your system’s overall performance. Aim for at least 500 MB/s for smooth operation.
Capacity
The capacity of an SSD defines how much data you can store. For basic tasks, 120GB may suffice. However, for media-heavy tasks, consider options with 256GB or more. This helps avoid running out of space quickly.
Form Factor
Form factor affects compatibility with your device. M.2 drives are compact and fast, while 2.5-inch drives fit most laptops. Ensure the SSD’s form factor matches your device’s requirements.
Durability
Durability features help protect your SSD. Look for models with water and dust resistance ratings. SSDs used in portable applications should have good drop protection to keep your data safe.
Warranty
Warranty length can indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. SSDs with a longer warranty often suggest better build quality. Aim for at least a 3-year warranty for confidence.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best 120gb ssd for gaming?
The best 120gb ssd for gaming is often one with high read speeds. Look for SSDs with speeds over 500 MB/s for better performance.
How long do SSDs last?
Most SSDs last for several years, typically around 5-10 years. Their lifespan depends on usage and write cycles.
Can I upgrade my laptop with an SSD?
Yes, many laptops allow SSD upgrades. Check your laptop’s specifications to find compatible SSD types.
Is a 120gb SSD enough for Windows?
A 120gb SSD can run Windows, but it may fill up quickly. Consider a larger capacity for better performance and storage.
What is the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
SATA SSDs are slower than NVMe SSDs. NVMe drives connect directly to the motherboard, offering faster speeds and better performance.
Shopping around? We have 53 more ssd guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR computer specs ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- NIST cybersecurity guidance NIST
About the author
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