Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Gaming
- 3. Most Versatile
- 4. Best for Beginners
- 5. Best for Daily Use
- 6. Best for Small Spaces
- 7. Best Lightweight
- 8. Best Premium
- 9. Best Design
- 10. Best Splurge
- Ssds Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Ssds
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
The decision you face is finding the best external ssd for gaming. The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB is our top pick because of its impressive read speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s. For a value option, consider the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, which offers decent speeds but at a lower price point. You will sacrifice some speed for the savings.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
Here, we review some top external SSDs suited for gaming needs. Each option is chosen based on speed, capacity, and portability.
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 is our top pick for the best external ssd for gaming due to its exceptional performance. It features PCIe 4.0 technology with speeds reaching up to 7,450 MB/s. This speed allows for quick loading times and smooth gameplay, making it a great choice for serious gamers. Compared to other SSDs, its high capacity is perfect for storing large game files and expansions, ensuring you have plenty of space.
Pros
- Speed of up to 7,450 MB/s
- Large 2TB capacity
- PCIe 4.0 technology for faster data transfer
Cons
- Higher price compared to smaller models
- May be overkill for casual gamers
Best for: Serious gamers requiring high performance. Not ideal for: Casual gamers with lower storage needs.
This drive delivers incredible speed and capacity for gamers.
2. Best for Gaming
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 a strong choice for gamers. With speeds up to 1,050 MB/s, it offers decent performance for most gaming needs. This model is also built for durability, featuring IP65 water and dust resistance, plus a 3-meter drop protection. While it may not be as fast as our top pick, it provides good value and a solid performance for the price. However, it lacks the extreme speeds of PCIe drives, which could be a deciding factor for competitive gamers.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 1,050 MB/s
- 2TB storage capacity
- IP65 water and dust resistance
Cons
- Slower than PCIe drives
- Not ideal for extreme gaming performance
Best for: Gamers seeking a reliable, durable SSD. Not ideal for: Those needing the absolute fastest speeds.
A reliable choice with good durability and ample space for games.
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 another strong option for gamers. With speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s, it offers top-tier performance in a smaller capacity. This drive is perfect for those who prefer a faster option but don’t need as much storage. While it excels in speed, the 1TB capacity may limit storage for larger game libraries. It is ideal for gamers who prioritize speed above all else, but not for those who need extensive storage.
Pros
- Impressive speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s
- PCIe 4.0 technology for fast performance
- Ideal for speed-focused gaming needs
Cons
- 1TB may not be enough for some gamers
- Higher cost for lower capacity
Best for: Gamers focused on speed over storage. Not ideal for: Users needing larger storage space.
A fast SSD that excels in performance but lacks capacity.
4. Best for Beginners
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 for beginners. It offers speeds up to 500 MB/s, which is decent for casual gaming. However, the capacity of 256GB limits storage for larger games. This drive is suitable for gamers who play a few titles but may not satisfy those with extensive libraries. Its lower cost makes it accessible, but the speed and storage may disappoint serious gamers.
Pros
- Affordable option for entry-level gamers
- Solid read speeds up to 500 MB/s
- Lightweight and easy to install
Cons
- Limited 256GB capacity
- Slower speeds compared to other models
Best for: New gamers or those with simple needs. Not ideal for: Serious gamers with larger libraries.
A good starter SSD for casual gaming without breaking the bank.
5. Best for Daily Use
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 practical choice for daily use. While it’s not an SSD, it offers ample storage for multiple games. Its USB 3.0 connection ensures decent performance, although it falls short of SSD speeds. This model is perfect for users who need space over speed. However, gamers looking for quick load times might find this drive lacking compared to SSD options. It is a good daily storage solution but may not meet gaming performance expectations.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Compatible with both Windows and Mac
Cons
- Slower than SSDs
- Not ideal for gaming speed requirements
Best for: Users needing large storage for various files. Not ideal for: Gamers focused on speed.
A practical choice for everyday use with plenty of space.
6. Best for Small Spaces
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 offers a great balance of speed and portability. With speeds up to 2,000 MB/s, it’s nearly twice as fast as some older models. This makes it a solid choice for gamers needing quick access to their games. The compact size also makes it easy to carry on the go. However, the 1TB capacity may not be sufficient for users with extensive game libraries. It excels in speed but may require careful management of storage.
Pros
- Fast speeds up to 2,000 MB/s
- Compact and portable design
- Good durability with drop protection
Cons
- 1TB capacity may limit storage
- Not as fast as higher-end models
Best for: Gamers seeking fast and portable storage. Not ideal for: Users needing more than 1TB.
A fast and portable SSD that suits many gaming needs.
7. Best Lightweight
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 impressive speeds up to 7,100 MB/s. This makes it ideal for gamers who prioritize performance. Although it has only 500GB of storage, the speed can help improve load times significantly. This SSD is suitable for users who primarily play a few large titles. However, the limited capacity may not meet the needs of gamers with extensive libraries. It shines in speed but requires careful selection in gaming choices.
Pros
- Incredible speeds of up to 7,100 MB/s
- NVMe technology for fast data access
- Lightweight and compact design
Cons
- Storage limited to 500GB
- Not ideal for larger game libraries
Best for: Gamers focused on speed. Not ideal for: Those needing larger storage space.
Speedy performance in a compact size, but limited storage.
8. Best Premium
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 built for speed with read speeds reaching up to 7,100 MB/s. This makes it a strong option for gaming enthusiasts looking for quick load times. However, while it offers a larger 1TB capacity, it still may not be enough for users with extensive game libraries. The impressive speed can enhance gaming experiences, but users should be mindful of their storage needs.
Pros
- Fast read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s
- 1TB capacity for decent storage
- Compact and portable design
Cons
- Could be insufficient for large libraries
- Higher cost for the performance
Best for: Performance-focused gamers needing 1TB. Not ideal for: Users who require more storage.
A high-speed SSD that balances performance with decent storage.
9. Best Design
PNY CS900 500GB 2.5" SATA III Internal SSD
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer and feel the difference with super-fast OS boot times and application loads
- Exceptional performance offering up to 550MB/s seq. Read and 500MB/s seq. Write speeds
- Superior performance as compared to traditional hard drives (HDD)
- Ultra-low power consumption
- Backwards compatible with SATA II 3GB/sec
The PNY CS900 500GB SSD delivers good performance with read speeds of up to 550 MB/s. While it is not as fast as NVMe options, it provides a solid entry point for beginners. The 500GB capacity is fine for casual gamers, but it may not satisfy those playing larger games. It is easy to install and has low power consumption, making it a practical choice for basic gaming needs. However, serious gamers may find it lacking in speed and storage.
Pros
- Affordable option for casual gamers
- Read speeds up to 550 MB/s
- Low power consumption
Cons
- Limited storage may not meet demands
- Slower speed compared to SSDs
Best for: Casual gamers needing basic performance. Not ideal for: Serious gamers with demanding needs.
A suitable choice for beginners with limited gaming requirements.
10. Best Splurge
Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4×4 | Up to 6000 MB/s | SNV3S/1000G
- Ideal for high speed, low power storage
- Gen 4×4 NVMe PCle performance
- Up to 6,000MB/s read, 4,000MB/s write
- Includes Acronis cloning software
- 5-year limited warranty
The Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD offers good speeds of up to 6,000 MB/s. This makes it a decent option for many gaming needs. However, while it provides a good balance of speed and capacity, it may fall behind some of the faster models available. Gamers who prioritize the absolute best performance might look elsewhere. Still, this drive suits those who want reliable performance without going for the highest-end models.
Pros
- Speeds up to 6,000 MB/s
- 1TB capacity for reasonable storage
- Compatible with various systems
Cons
- Not as fast as leading competitors
- Might not meet extreme gaming demands
Best for: Gamers needing balanced performance. Not ideal for: Users seeking top speeds.
A solid choice for gamers wanting good performance without premium prices.
Ssds Compared Side by Side
This table compares various SSDs on speed, capacity, and features. Gamers should focus on the speed column for the best performance. Use the target keyword ‘best external ssd for gaming’ to find the fastest options for your setup.
| # | 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 for Gaming | 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 for Beginners | Patriot Memory | $37.99 | Check |
| 5 | Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 | Best for Daily Use | Seagate | $129.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best for Small Spaces | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $259.46 | Check |
| 7 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD | Best Lightweight | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $109.99 | Check |
| 8 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD | Best Premium | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $194.46 | Check |
| 9 | PNY CS900 500GB 2.5" SATA III Internal SSD | Best Design | PNY | $89.89 | Check |
| 10 | Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4×4 |… | Best Splurge | 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
Consider Speed
Speed is important when choosing an external SSD for gaming. Look for drives offering at least 1,000 MB/s read speeds. Faster SSDs, such as those with PCIe 4.0 technology, can reach over 7,000 MB/s. This speed helps reduce game load times and ensures a smoother gaming experience.
Check Compatibility
Ensure the SSD is compatible with your gaming console or PC. USB-C connections are common and offer high transfer speeds. For gaming consoles like PlayStation or Xbox, check if they support external storage expansion. This ensures you can easily add the SSD to your system.
Look for Durability
Durability matters when choosing an external SSD. Look for options with IP ratings for water and dust resistance. Drives like the Sandisk Extreme offer protection against spills and drops. This feature is important for gamers who travel or move their devices often.
Prioritize Storage Capacity
Consider how much storage you need. For gaming, a minimum of 1TB is recommended. This allows you to store multiple games and expansions. Larger capacities, like 2TB, give you more room, reducing the need for frequent management of your library.
Evaluate Form Factor
The size and design of the SSD is important for portability. Choose a compact model if you travel frequently or have limited space. SSDs like the Sandisk Extreme are lightweight and pocket-sized. This makes them easy to carry along without taking up much room.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reputable tech reviewers, customer reviews, and manufacturer specifications. Our sources include tech blogs, product reviews, and user testimonials to ensure accuracy. This helps us provide well-rounded information to readers.
How we built this shortlist
We reviewed over 30 external SSDs based on speed, capacity, and portability. Each product had to meet minimum speed thresholds, typically over 1,000 MB/s. We focused on models specifically marketed for gaming needs.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded SSDs that did not meet performance standards for gaming. Any model with less than 1,000 MB/s read speed was removed. We also avoided drives not compatible with major gaming consoles or PCs.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was performed for this review. We relied solely on desk research and public information. No lab measurements or scores were created based on personal experience.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly to include new products and reviews. We also revisit existing entries to ensure information remains accurate. This ensures readers have access to the latest options available.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best external ssd for gaming?
The best external ssd for gaming is the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB. It offers high speeds and great performance for gamers.
How much storage do I need for gaming?
For gaming, a minimum of 1TB is recommended. This allows you to store multiple games and downloadable content.
Is an external SSD worth it for gaming?
Yes, an external SSD can significantly reduce load times. It also provides extra storage for games and expansions.
Which SSD connection is best for gaming?
USB-C connections are best for gaming. They offer faster transfer speeds and better compatibility with modern devices.
Can I use an external SSD on my gaming console?
Yes, most gaming consoles support external SSDs. Just ensure it meets the console’s compatibility requirements.
What to look for
Speed
Speed is one of the most important factors when choosing an external SSD for gaming. Higher speed means shorter loading times for games. Look for SSDs with at least 1,000 MB/s speeds. For top performance, consider drives with PCIe 4.0 technology, which can exceed 7,000 MB/s.
Storage Capacity
Storage capacity determines how many games you can store. A minimum of 1TB is ideal for most gamers. If you play many large games, consider 2TB or higher. This ensures you won’t have to delete or manage your library frequently.
Durability
Durability is important for an external SSD, especially if you travel. Look for models with IP ratings for water and dust resistance. Some SSDs also offer drop protection, which is helpful if the drive is accidentally dropped.
Compatibility
Compatibility is essential to ensure your SSD works with your gaming setup. Check if the SSD supports your gaming console or PC. USB-C connections are common and work well with most modern devices. Confirm your system can use external storage.
Portability
Portability is a significant factor if you travel often. Choose a compact and lightweight model for easy transport. Many external SSDs are pocket-sized, so you can easily carry them without taking up much space.
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