Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for Gaming
- 3. Best Budget
- 4. Best Premium
- 5. Best for Daily Use
- 6. Best Value
- 7. Most Versatile
- 8. Best Splurge
- 9. Best for Small Spaces
- 10. Runner-Up
- Ssds Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Ssds
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
You may wonder what is the best ssd for gaming. The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB stands out due to its PCIe 4.0 interface and speeds up to 7,450 MB/s. For a good value, consider the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD. It offers decent speed at up to 1,050 MB/s but sacrifices some performance and portability.
Most buyers face a choice between capacity and speed. The Samsung model gives you powerful speed, while the Sandisk offers larger storage. The rest of this page will guide you through other options to help you make the right choice.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 10
Top 10 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
In this guide, you’ll find the best SSDs for gaming. Each product has unique features that cater to gamers.
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 powerful option for gamers. It features a PCIe 4.0 interface with speeds reaching up to 7,450 MB/s. This makes it one of the fastest SSDs available. Its large capacity ensures you have enough space for multiple large games and files. This drive is ideal for high-performance gaming and offers both speed and durability.
Compared to other picks, the Samsung 990 PRO leads in speed and storage capacity. While the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD offers decent performance, it can’t match the speed of the Samsung model. The performance difference can be noticeable in gaming. However, the 990 PRO may be more expensive than some alternatives.
A limitation of the Samsung 990 PRO is its size. It is an M.2 2280 format, which may not fit in all systems. If your setup does not support this format, you will need to consider other options. This SSD is best suited for gamers looking for high performance and speed.
Pros
- Speed up to 7,450 MB/s
- 2TB capacity for ample storage
- PCIe 4.0 interface for performance
- Power efficiency for longer use
Cons
- M.2 2280 size may not fit all systems
- Can be pricier compared to other options
- Less portable than external drives
Best for: Gamers seeking high-speed performance and large capacity. Not ideal for: Users with limited upgrade options or smaller systems.
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB is the best choice for gamers who want speed and space.
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 designed for gamers who value portability alongside speed. With speeds up to 1,050 MB/s, it offers solid performance for most gaming needs. This external SSD is IP65 rated, meaning it is resistant to water and dust, making it durable and suitable for on-the-go usage. The 2TB capacity is generous for storing a variety of games and media files.
In comparison to the Samsung 990 PRO, the Sandisk SSD offers lower speeds. However, it compensates for this with its portable design. If you need an SSD that can easily travel with you, the Sandisk is a great option. Other picks in this list may offer higher speeds but lack the durability that this one provides.
A limitation is that while it is portable, it is slower than some internal SSDs. This means load times might be longer when compared to faster internal options. If speed is your top priority, another model may suit you better.
Pros
- 2TB capacity for plenty of games
- IP65 water and dust resistance
- Portable, easy to carry
- Solid read speeds up to 1,050 MB/s
Cons
- Slower speeds than internal SSDs
- Not ideal for high-performance gaming
- Bulkier than other portable options
Best for: Gamers needing a portable SSD with good storage. Not ideal for: Those wanting the fastest loading times.
The Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is great for gamers who need storage on the move.
3. Best Budget
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 a great choice for gamers who want top performance in a smaller size. It features the same PCIe 4.0 technology as the 2TB version, delivering speeds up to 7,450 MB/s. With 1TB of storage, it still offers ample space for most gaming setups. This SSD is perfect for those who want fast loading times without needing a large capacity.
When compared to its larger counterpart, the 1TB version is more affordable while still retaining high performance. However, it may not provide enough space for gamers with extensive libraries. Other options, like the Sandisk Extreme, offer larger capacities but at lower speeds.
One limitation is that 1TB may not be enough for users with multiple large games. If you frequently play many titles, you might find yourself running out of space quickly. This drive excels in speed but could leave some users wanting more storage.
Pros
- Speed up to 7,450 MB/s
- 1TB capacity for solid storage
- PCIe 4.0 technology for top performance
- Improved power efficiency
Cons
- Only 1TB may not be enough for all users
- Higher price for lower capacity
- Less storage than the 2TB model
Best for: Gamers wanting high speed with lower capacity. Not ideal for: Users with large game libraries.
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB is perfect for those who prioritize speed over capacity.
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 for gamers. It offers decent performance with read speeds up to 500 MB/s and write speeds up to 400 MB/s. This model is a good choice for casual gamers or those looking to store less data. It is a 2.5-inch SATA SSD, making it easy to install in most systems.
Compared to other options in this list, the Patriot P210 has much lower speeds. SSDs like the Samsung 990 PRO deliver significantly better performance. However, the price makes it an attractive option for those on a strict budget. If you don’t need the fastest speeds, this SSD can still work well for light gaming.
A limitation is its small 256GB capacity. For gamers with larger game libraries, this size may not be sufficient. If you plan to play multiple games or larger titles, you may find this SSD lacking.
Pros
- Affordable price for budget users
- 256GB capacity for basic storage needs
- Easy to install in most systems
- Good for casual gaming
Cons
- Low performance compared to other SSDs
- Only 256GB may limit storage options
- Not suitable for heavy gaming
Best for: Casual gamers or those on a budget. Not ideal for: Users with large game collections.
The Patriot P210 256GB is a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers.
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 designed for gamers who need extra storage. It connects via USB 3.0 and is easy to set up with any system. While not an SSD, its 2TB capacity provides ample space for storing games and files. Its portable nature makes it easy to transport your data.
When compared to SSDs, this hard drive is slower. SSDs like the Samsung 990 PRO deliver far superior speed. However, the Seagate offers a good value for users who prioritize storage over speed. If you’re looking to back up files or store a library of games, this hard drive is a suitable option.
One limitation is its slower read and write speeds compared to SSDs. Longer load times can be a drawback for gaming. If you require fast access to game data, this may not be the best option.
Pros
- 2TB capacity for plenty of storage
- Easy USB 3.0 connection
- Portable design for easy transport
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
Cons
- Slower performance than SSDs
- Longer load times for games
- Not as durable as SSDs
Best for: Users needing extra storage for games. Not ideal for: Gamers who need fast loading times.
The Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive is a good choice for extra storage but lacks speed.
6. Best Value
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 a compact storage solution for gamers on the go. It features transfer speeds up to 2,000 MB/s, making it nearly twice as fast as previous models. This drive also has an IP65 rating, ensuring it is resistant to dust and water damage. Its small size makes it easy to carry with you.
Compared to the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, this one offers faster speeds but less storage. If you prioritize speed over capacity, this drive may be more appealing. Many users find that the extra speed can improve gaming experiences by reducing load times.
A downside to consider is the 1TB capacity, which may not be enough for extensive game libraries. If you play many games, you might need additional storage options. This SSD is great for speed but may fall short for users with larger needs.
Pros
- Up to 2,000 MB/s transfer speeds
- 1TB compact size for easy portability
- IP65 rated for water and dust resistance
- Quick access to games and files
Cons
- 1TB storage may be limiting for users
- Faster than some SSDs but not high-capacity
- More expensive than traditional hard drives
Best for: Gamers needing speed in a portable drive. Not ideal for: Users with large game libraries.
The Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is excellent for portable speed but may not suffice for all users.
7. Most Versatile
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 a great performer for gamers looking for speed. With read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s, it provides quick access to games. The 500GB capacity is suitable for users with a smaller game library. Its compact M.2 design makes installation easy.
When compared to larger SSDs, it offers impressive speed but limited storage. Users who play many games might find the 500GB insufficient. Other models, like the Samsung 990 PRO, provide larger capacities and similar speeds.
A limitation is that the 500GB capacity may restrict users. Gamers with a larger number of titles might need more space. This SSD is perfect for speed lovers who play fewer games.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s
- Compact M.2 design for easy installation
- 500GB capacity for various applications
- Fast performance for gaming
Cons
- 500GB may not be enough for heavy gamers
- Lower capacity than other options
- Pricey for the amount of storage
Best for: Users prioritizing speed in a compact form. Not ideal for: Gamers with extensive libraries.
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD is ideal for those who need speed over storage.
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 is an excellent choice for gamers who want both speed and capacity. With read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s and 1TB of space, it is a balanced option. This model allows players to manage larger game libraries easily. Its M.2 form factor ensures it fits in most systems without issue.
Compared to the 500GB version, this 1TB model offers doubled storage. It is still highly competitive in terms of speed. Other drives like the Samsung 990 PRO might have higher speeds, but this SSD provides a good mix of performance and capacity.
A downside is that while it has 1TB of storage, it might not satisfy hardcore gamers. Users with extensive collections may want even larger options. This drive is great for users needing speed with manageable storage.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s
- 1TB capacity for ample storage
- M.2 form factor for compatibility
- Fast performance for gaming needs
Cons
- May not be enough for users with large libraries
- Higher price point for the performance
- Less storage compared to some alternatives
Best for: Gamers needing a balance of speed and storage. Not ideal for: Users with massive game libraries.
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD balances speed and capacity effectively.
9. Best for Small Spaces
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 SATA III Internal SSD is a solid entry-level option for gamers. It offers read speeds up to 550 MB/s and write speeds of 500 MB/s. This model is great for casual gamers looking for a reliable and affordable SSD. Its 2.5-inch size makes it easy to install in many systems.
Compared to faster models in this list, the PNY CS900 offers lower performance. High-end SSDs like the Samsung 990 PRO significantly outperform it. However, this drive serves well for users who play less demanding games. Its budget-friendly price makes it a good first SSD.
A limitation is its lower speed and capacity compared to others. Users wanting to play more intensive titles might find it lagging. This SSD works best for basic gaming and storage needs.
Pros
- Affordable entry-level SSD
- 500GB capacity suitable for casual gaming
- Easy to install in various systems
- Good performance for simple tasks
Cons
- Lower speeds than high-performance SSDs
- Only 500GB may limit storage for some users
- Not suitable for demanding games
Best for: Casual gamers or those new to SSDs. Not ideal for: Serious gamers needing high performance.
The PNY CS900 500GB is a practical choice for newcomers to gaming SSDs.
10. Runner-Up
The Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is a reliable choice for gamers seeking speed. It features read speeds up to 6,000 MB/s, making it suitable for most gaming needs. With 1TB of storage, it can hold a decent number of games. The M.2 design allows for easy integration into compatible systems.
When compared to higher-end models, the Kingston NV3 offers good speed but lags behind the fastest options. The Samsung 990 PRO outperforms it, but the Kingston provides a balance for users not needing top-tier speed. It remains a solid choice for average gamers.
A downside is that while 1TB is sufficient for many, it may not be ideal for gamers with large libraries. Users with extensive collections might require a larger SSD. Overall, this drive is a good option for gamers looking for reliable performance.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 6,000 MB/s
- 1TB capacity for decent storage
- M.2 design for easy installation
- Good balance of performance and price
Cons
- Lower performance than top models
- 1TB may not satisfy heavy gamers
- Not the fastest in its category
Best for: Average gamers seeking reliable performance. Not ideal for: Users with large game libraries.
The Kingston NV3 1TB is a dependable choice for gamers wanting solid performance without breaking the bank.
Ssds Compared Side by Side
This table compares key features of top SSDs for gaming. It includes speed, capacity, and type of connection. Use this to find the best ssd for gaming that fits your needs.
| # | 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 Gaming | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $289.99 | Check |
| 3 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB | Best Budget | 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 Daily Use | Seagate | $129.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best Value | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $259.46 | Check |
| 7 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD | Most Versatile | 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 | Best for Small Spaces | PNY | $89.89 | Check |
| 10 | Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4×4 |… | Runner-Up | 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
Connection Type
Choose an SSD with a PCIe connection for fast performance. PCIe 4.0 is the latest standard and offers higher speeds than older versions.
Storage Capacity
Look for at least 1TB of storage for gaming. Many modern games take up a lot of space, so more capacity is better.
Read and Write Speeds
Select an SSD with read speeds of at least 1,000 MB/s. Higher speeds can improve load times and game performance.
Durability Ratings
Consider SSDs with higher durability ratings, like IP65, which protect against dust and water. This is essential for portability.
Price vs. Performance
Evaluate the price in relation to performance. While high-end SSDs offer fast speeds, they may not always be worth the extra cost for casual gamers.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from manufacturer specifications, user reviews, and expert articles. This gave us a solid understanding of each product’s performance.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 30 SSDs, focusing on speed, capacity, and durability. Only models that met high-performance standards made it to the final list.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products with low read/write speeds below 500 MB/s or with poor user reviews. Reliability is essential for gaming SSDs.
What we did not do
No products were tested hands-on, and we did not take any lab measurements. Our review is based on data and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every three months to reflect changes in product availability and new releases in the SSD market.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best SSD for gaming?
The best SSD for gaming is the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB. It offers fast speeds and high capacity for a great gaming experience.
How much storage do I need for gaming?
A minimum of 1TB is recommended for gaming. This provides enough space for multiple games and updates.
Is PCIe 4.0 worth it for gaming?
Yes, PCIe 4.0 offers faster data transfer speeds, leading to quicker load times and better overall performance in games.
Can I use an SSD for both gaming and storage?
Absolutely, SSDs can serve both purposes. A larger SSD can store your games and files efficiently.
Are portable SSDs good for gaming?
Portable SSDs can be good for gaming, but ensure they have fast read/write speeds and enough capacity for your games.
What to look for
Speed Performance
Speed is a key factor for gaming SSDs. Look for read speeds above 1,000 MB/s. Faster speeds lead to quicker game load times. The Samsung SSD 990 PRO offers exceptional speeds up to 7,450 MB/s, making it a top choice.
Storage Capacity
Many modern games require large amounts of space. At least 1TB is recommended for a smooth gaming experience. If you play multiple games, a 2TB SSD like the Sandisk Extreme Portable is useful.
Durability
Durability is important, especially for portable SSDs. Look for IP ratings that indicate water and dust resistance. A rating of IP65 means it can handle spills and dust effectively.
Thermal Management
Heat can affect SSD performance. Some SSDs, like the Samsung 990 PRO, have features to manage heat effectively. This ensures consistent performance during long gaming sessions.
Price Consideration
Price is an important factor when choosing an SSD. Balance your budget with the features you need. Higher prices often come with better performance and reliability.
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
Similar guides
- 10 Best External Ssd Drive in 2026 Computers & Office
- 10 Best External Ssds in 2026 Computers & Office
- 10 Cheapest Ssds in 2026 Computers & Office
- 10 Best Vr Headset Pc in 2026 Computers & Office
- 10 Best Monitors for Home Office in 2026 Computers & Office
- 9 Best Gaming Laptops under $1000 in 2026 Computers & Office