Contents
Choosing the best affordable ssd can be tough. The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB stands out because it offers up to 7,450 MB/s transfer speeds. If you want to save money, the Patriot P210 256GB is a good option, but it has less storage and slower speeds. Most buyers face a choice between high performance and more storage, which this guide will help you explore.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for the best affordable ssd, each with its unique strengths.
1. Best Overall
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 is a leading choice in the best affordable ssd category. It offers impressive speed, reaching up to 7,450 MB/s, making it perfect for gamers and creative professionals. As a PCIe 4.0 M.2 drive, it maximizes performance, keeping your system fast and efficient. Compared to other picks, it outperforms in speed and storage capacity, making it a great investment for intensive applications. However, its higher cost may deter budget-conscious buyers who do not need such high performance.
Pros
- Up to 7,450 MB/s transfer speeds for high performance.
- 2TB capacity is great for large file storage.
- PCIe 4.0 interface ensures fast data transfer.
Cons
- Higher price compared to some budget options.
- May be overkill for casual users.
Best for: Gamers and professionals needing fast speeds. Not ideal for: Users with modest storage needs.
This is the top choice for speed and capacity.
2. Best for Daily Use
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 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is designed for everyday users who need reliable and portable storage. It provides a decent read speed of up to 1050 MB/s, making file transfers quick. This external drive is USB-C compatible, ensuring easy connections with various devices. While it is slower than many internal SSDs, its portability and IP65 rating for water and dust resistance make it an excellent choice for users on the go. However, those who need faster speeds might want to consider internal options.
Pros
- Up to 1050 MB/s read speed for quick access.
- USB-C connection for modern devices.
- IP65 rated for water and dust resistance.
Cons
- Slower than many internal SSD options.
- Limited to external storage use.
Best for: Everyday users needing portability and moderate speed. Not ideal for: Users requiring high-speed internal drives.
This is a solid choice for daily use with good portability.
3. Best for Small Spaces
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 offers a strong balance of performance and capacity. With speeds reaching up to 7,450 MB/s, it provides excellent data transfer rates. Compared to the 2TB model, it still delivers high performance, making it suitable for gamers and serious users. However, its lower capacity may not suffice for those with massive file storage needs, such as video editors or gamers with extensive libraries.
Pros
- Up to 7,450 MB/s speeds comparable to larger models.
- 1TB storage is ample for many users.
- Designed for efficient energy use.
Cons
- Less capacity than the 2TB model.
- May not be enough for heavy users.
Best for: Users wanting a balance of speed and storage. Not ideal for: Heavy users needing maximum capacity.
This model is a great compromise between speed and size.
4. Runner-Up
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 solid option for budget-conscious users. It offers decent speeds up to 500MB/s for reading and 400MB/s for writing. While it’s sufficient for basic tasks like document storage and media playback, it won’t compete with NVMe drives for speed. Its limited storage capacity may not meet the needs of users with larger file collections. Overall, it’s a practical choice for everyday tasks without breaking the bank.
Pros
- 256GB capacity is good for basic tasks.
- SATA 3 interface provides decent speeds.
- End-to-end data protection ensures security.
Cons
- Much slower than NVMe options.
- Limited storage for demanding users.
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic storage. Not ideal for: Those with large file needs.
This is a practical choice for basic, everyday tasks.
5. Most Versatile
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 a versatile option for those needing a mix of capacity and compatibility. It provides ample storage and is easy to set up with plug-and-play functionality. While its speeds are slower than most internal SSDs, it remains a reliable choice for general file storage. The bulkier design may not be as portable as some other options, but it compensates with generous storage capacity for users who need it.
Pros
- 2TB capacity for ample storage.
- Compatible with both PCs and Macs.
- Easy to set up, just plug and play.
Cons
- Slower speeds than internal SSDs.
- Bulkier than some portable options.
Best for: Users needing versatile storage options. Not ideal for: Those seeking the highest transfer speeds.
This drive is excellent for a variety of storage needs.
6. Best Lightweight
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 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is perfect for users on the go. Its compact size allows easy transport, and it offers impressive speeds of up to 2000MB/s. This makes it suitable for quick file transfers and accessing data while traveling. However, it is limited to 1TB of storage, which may not be enough for heavy users with extensive media libraries. Overall, it’s a great choice for portability and performance.
Pros
- Compact size fits easily in pockets.
- Up to 2000MB/s speeds for fast transfers.
- IP65 rating protects against spills.
Cons
- Storage limited to 1TB.
- Not as fast as higher-end models.
Best for: Users needing a portable option with decent speed. Not ideal for: Those requiring more than 1TB of storage.
This model is great for on-the-go users needing speed.
7. Best Budget
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 is an affordable option for those new to SSDs. It offers decent speeds for basic tasks, making it suitable for everyday users. Compared to higher-end models, its performance is slower but still competitive for entry-level use. However, users needing more advanced features or higher capacity may find it lacking. It serves well for those needing a reliable and budget-friendly storage solution.
Pros
- Affordable option for budget buyers.
- Good speed for everyday tasks.
- 256GB capacity sufficient for basic needs.
Cons
- Slower than most modern SSDs.
- Limited features compared to higher-end drives.
Best for: Users on a tight budget needing basic functionality. Not ideal for: Users with demanding storage needs.
This is a solid entry-level choice for basic usage.
8. Best Splurge
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 delivers high performance for serious users. With speeds reaching up to 7,100MB/s, it handles demanding tasks effortlessly. This makes it ideal for professionals working with large files or high-res media. However, its higher price point may not fit every budget, especially for casual users who may not need such advanced features. Overall, it is a strong contender for those serious about performance.
Pros
- High speeds up to 7,100MB/s for fast performance.
- 1TB capacity is ample for many users.
- Supports PCIe 4.0 for improved efficiency.
Cons
- Higher price point for budget users.
- Might be too advanced for casual users.
Best for: Professionals needing high performance and capacity. Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking basic features.
This model is an excellent choice for those wanting top performance.
Ssds Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each ssd. The columns display speed, storage, and special features. Look at the row that matches your needs to find the best affordable ssd for you.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB | Best Overall | Samsung | $389.99 | Check |
| 2 | Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best for Daily Use | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $289.99 | Check |
| 3 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB | Best for Small Spaces | Samsung | $239.99 | Check |
| 4 | Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD | Runner-Up | Patriot Memory | $37.99 | Check |
| 5 | Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 | Most Versatile | Seagate | $129.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best Lightweight | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $259.46 | Check |
| 7 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD | Best Budget | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $109.99 | Check |
| 8 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD | Best Splurge | 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 to Choose Ssds
Understand Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is important. If you store many large files, consider an ssd with at least 1TB. For everyday use, 512GB can be enough. Think about your future needs too. A larger capacity can save you from running out of space later.
Check Transfer Speeds
Look for transfer speeds to ensure fast file access. SSDs with speeds over 1,000 MB/s are good for most users. High-end models can reach up to 7,450 MB/s, ideal for gamers and professionals. Match the speed to your use case for best results.
Consider Form Factor
Form factor matters when choosing an ssd. M.2 drives are smaller and fit into laptops. However, external drives offer portability. If you need to carry your ssd, an external option is better. For permanent setups, an M.2 drive works well.
Look for Durability Features
Durability can impact your ssd’s lifespan. Features like water and dust resistance help protect your data. A drive with an IP65 rating means it’s safe from dust and low-pressure water. If you travel often, prioritize these features.
Budget for Your Needs
Your budget will guide your choice. Affordable ssds typically range from 256GB to 2TB. Balance your performance needs with what you can afford. You might have to compromise on speed or capacity with budget options.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from trusted tech review sites and manufacturer specifications. Sources include user reviews and expert opinions. This helps ensure the information is accurate and reliable.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 50 ssds based on speed, capacity, and reliability. From that, we selected the top eight that offer good value and performance. We considered both brand reputation and user feedback for this shortlist.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded models with poor performance reviews or low capacity. Drives that lacked important features like durability were also removed. This ensures we present only the best affordable options.
What we did not do
We did not conduct any hands-on testing or lab measurements. Our research is based on existing data and reports. Scores for products were not created, ensuring a trustworthy selection process.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every three months or as needed. We will refresh the data based on new product releases and market changes. This ensures you have up-to-date information.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best affordable ssd for gaming?
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB is excellent for gaming because of its fast 7,450 MB/s speeds. This ensures quick load times and smooth gameplay.
How much storage do I need in an ssd?
If you store many large files or games, consider at least 1TB. For everyday tasks, 512GB can be sufficient. Plan for your future storage needs.
Are portable ssds reliable?
Yes, portable ssds can be very reliable. Many come with durability features like dust and water resistance. Ensure you choose one with good reviews.
Can I use an external ssd for gaming?
Yes, you can use an external ssd for gaming. Just make sure it has fast transfer speeds, ideally above 1,000 MB/s. This helps ensure smooth performance.
What is the difference between SATA and NVMe ssds?
SATA ssds are slower, typically maxing out around 600 MB/s. NVMe ssds use PCIe connections, allowing speeds above 1,000 MB/s, making them faster and more efficient.
What to look for
Speed vs. Capacity
When choosing an ssd, speed and capacity are key. Higher speeds mean quicker data transfer, while larger capacity allows more storage. A good rule is to prioritize speed if you use intensive applications. If you store many files, focus on capacity.
Internal vs. External Drives
Decide between internal and external ssds based on your needs. Internal drives are faster and ideal for desktops. External drives offer portability, great for laptops and travel. Choose based on where you’ll use your ssd the most.
Durability Features
Look for durability features in your ssd. IP ratings show how resistant a drive is to dust and water. Drives with drop protection are also safer for travel. Consider how you will use your drive to determine which features matter most.
Brand Reputation
Brand reputation should guide your choice. Well-known brands often provide better customer support and warranty options. Research user reviews to see how well a brand performs over time. A good brand can mean a more reliable product.
Warranty and Support
Check the warranty and support options for your ssd. A longer warranty can indicate better quality. Good customer support is essential if you run into issues. Make sure you understand the warranty terms before purchasing.
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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