Contents
Choosing the right SSD can be tough. Our top pick for ssd reviews is the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB. It has blazing speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s. For a budget option, consider the Patriot P210 256GB. You give up speed and capacity compared to our top pick.
Most buyers must decide between high speed and capacity. Samsung offers speed, while Patriot focuses on a lower cost. The rest of the page will guide you through comparing other options and their features.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for SSDs, including details on their specs 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 is our Editor’s Choice for ssd reviews. Its impressive read speed of up to 7,450 MB/s sets a high standard. This performance is excellent for gamers and professionals alike, offering great efficiency in demanding tasks.
Compared to models like the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, the Samsung offers superior speed. While Sandisk’s SSD provides great portability and decent speeds, it cannot match Samsung’s raw performance. The 990 PRO is truly a powerhouse for high-intensity tasks, making it suitable for the most demanding users.
One limitation is its price, which might not fit every budget. If you prioritize speed and performance, however, this tradeoff is worth it. Many users will find the investment in speed beneficial for their needs.
Pros
- Lightning-fast read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s
- High capacity at 2TB for large file storage
- Built for power efficiency and performance
Cons
- Higher cost compared to budget SSDs
- May be overkill for casual users
- Requires compatible hardware for full speed
Best for: Gamers and professionals needing high performance. Not ideal for: Casual users who don’t require top speed.
A top choice for anyone seeking maximum performance in an SSD.
2. Most Versatile
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 our Most Versatile pick. It offers a great balance of performance and portability. With speeds up to 1,050 MB/s, it’s perfect for users who need a reliable external drive for frequent travel.
Compared to the Samsung SSD 990 PRO, this model sacrifices raw speed. However, it’s still significantly faster than traditional hard drives. The added portability makes it a great choice for photographers and video editors on the go. It also has IP65 water and dust resistance, which adds extra durability.
The main tradeoff here is speed. If you need extreme performance, you might prefer Samsung’s option. However, for users who prioritize flexibility and portability, the Sandisk provides excellent value.
Pros
- Portable and lightweight design
- IP65 water and dust resistance
- Decent read speeds up to 1,050 MB/s
Cons
- Slower than internal SSDs like Samsung
- Higher capacity models are bulkier
- Dependent on USB connections for speed
Best for: Users needing a portable SSD for travel. Not ideal for: Those requiring extreme speed for gaming or heavy tasks.
A great choice for users who want speed and portability in one package.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
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 powerful option for performance seekers. It offers read speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s, similar to its larger sibling. This makes it suitable for gamers and creatives who need quick access to files.
When compared to the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD, the Samsung model excels in speed. This makes it ideal for tasks like video editing and gaming. However, the Extreme Portable SSD is much easier to carry around, making it better for users who travel often.
A limitation of the 1TB model is its reduced storage capacity compared to the 2TB version. Users may find themselves needing more space for large projects. For many, the speed of the 990 PRO will justify the smaller capacity.
Pros
- Fast read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s
- Compact M.2 form factor
- Excellent for gaming and video editing
Cons
- Limited to 1TB capacity
- Higher storage demands may require upgrades
- Price may be high for some users
Best for: Users needing high speed in a compact form. Not ideal for: Those needing more than 1TB of storage.
A solid choice for those prioritizing speed in a smaller package.
4. Best Design
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 is a budget-friendly SSD option. Its SATA 3 controller allows reliable performance at a lower price point. With read speeds of up to 500 MB/s, it appeals to users with light storage needs.
While it lags behind the Samsung SSDs in speed, it still offers decent performance for everyday tasks. Compared to the Sandisk models, the Patriot is more affordable but sacrifices speed and capacity. This makes it a suitable choice for users who primarily store files and documents.
The main limitation is its lower storage capacity. At 256GB, it may not meet the needs of users with large files or extensive collections. This makes it less favorable for gamers or content creators.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Reliability of SATA 3 interface
- Compact 2.5-inch design
Cons
- Lower speeds compared to NVMe SSDs
- Limited storage capacity of 256GB
- Not suitable for large file storage
Best for: Casual users on a budget. Not ideal for: Gamers or heavy users needing more storage.
A practical choice for those who need basic SSD functionality without high costs.
5. Best Budget
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 users who need large storage on the go. While it’s not an SSD, its 2TB capacity makes it appealing for storing large files. It’s a reliable choice for those who need to back up data easily.
Compared to the SSD selections, the Seagate lacks the speed advantages. However, it is a more affordable alternative for users who prioritize storage over performance. It is suitable for backing up photos, videos, and large documents that don’t need fast access.
The main limitation is its slower read and write speeds compared to SSDs. Users needing quick access to data will find it frustrating compared to the speed of SSDs. This makes it less ideal for tasks requiring immediate file access.
Pros
- Large 2TB storage capacity
- User-friendly drag-and-drop setup
- Compatible with both Windows and Mac
Cons
- Slower than SSDs
- Bulkier compared to portable SSDs
- Not ideal for fast file transfers
Best for: Users needing large storage for backups. Not ideal for: Those requiring fast data access for tasks.
A good choice for those who prioritize storage over speed.
6. Runner-Up
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 combination of speed and portability. With transfer speeds up to 2,000 MB/s, it’s one of the fastest in its category. This makes it perfect for photographers and videographers who need quick access to large files.
When compared to the 2TB model, this version offers similar performance but with less storage. Those who travel frequently will appreciate its lightweight design and durability against drops. While it may not match the speed of the Samsung 990 PRO, it excels in portability.
A limitation is its reduced capacity of 1TB. Users dealing with large files may find this insufficient. However, for most users, the speed and portability make it an excellent choice.
Pros
- Up to 2,000 MB/s transfer speeds
- Compact and lightweight design
- IP65 rating for water and dust resistance
Cons
- Limited to 1TB of storage
- May not fit all content needs
- Dependent on USB for connectivity
Best for: Users needing speed in a portable form. Not ideal for: Those needing more than 1TB of storage.
A solid option for users wanting fast performance in a compact package.
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 is designed for content creators. It offers impressive read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s, making it suitable for demanding applications. This enables quick loading and saving of large files, ideal for video and photo editing.
Compared to the Patriot P210, this SSD is much faster and can handle larger files. While the Patriot is cheaper, it cannot compete with the Optimus in performance. The 5100’s NVMe interface enhances performance significantly.
A limitation is its 500GB capacity, which may not be enough for some users. Those with extensive content libraries might need additional storage. However, for users focusing on speed, the 5100 is an excellent choice.
Pros
- High read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s
- NVMe interface for improved performance
- Compact M.2 form factor
Cons
- Limited to 500GB storage
- Higher capacity options are bulkier
- May not fit all storage needs
Best for: Content creators needing high speed for projects. Not ideal for: Users needing more than 500GB of storage.
An excellent choice for those emphasizing speed in content creation.
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 another strong choice for speed and performance. With read speeds also reaching up to 7,100 MB/s, it caters well to users who need fast access for large files. This makes it perfect for gaming and professional applications.
When compared to the 500GB version, this model offers double the storage without sacrificing speed. It meets the needs of most users looking for a balance of space and performance. However, it may still fall short compared to Samsung’s offerings.
A potential downside is that it may be overkill for casual users. Some may not need such high speeds for everyday tasks. However, for serious gamers and professionals, the 1TB capacity with excellent speed is compelling.
Pros
- Fast read speeds of up to 7,100 MB/s
- 1TB storage capacity meets many needs
- Ideal for high-performance tasks
Cons
- May be too fast for casual tasks
- Potentially higher cost for some users
- Requires compatible hardware for full performance
Best for: Gamers and professionals needing fast SSD performance. Not ideal for: Casual users with lower storage needs.
A powerful option for those who need speed and capacity in one SSD.
Ssds Compared Side by Side
The following table compares various SSD models. It shows key specifications such as capacity, speed, and unique features. This helps you find the best option based on the ssd reviews.
| # | 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 | Most Versatile | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $289.99 | Check |
| 3 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB | Best Heavy-Duty | Samsung | $239.99 | Check |
| 4 | Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD | Best Design | Patriot Memory | $37.99 | Check |
| 5 | Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 | Best Budget | Seagate | $129.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD | Runner-Up | 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 to Choose Ssds
Consider the Interface Type
Look for SSDs with PCIe 4.0 interface for the best speed. This type allows for faster data transfer compared to SATA drives. If you need high performance, choose a model like the Samsung SSD 990 PRO.
Check the Read and Write Speeds
Focus on SSDs with read speeds above 1,000 MB/s for good performance. Higher write speeds also help with tasks like video editing. Fast SSDs, such as the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD, offer up to 2,000 MB/s.
Capacity Matters
Select an SSD with enough storage for your needs. A 1TB model is good for most users. For heavy users, consider 2TB options like the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB for large files.
Durability Features
Look for SSDs with water and dust resistance if you travel often. Models with an IP65 rating, like the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD, can withstand spills and dust.
Price vs. Performance
Think about how much performance you need compared to your budget. Higher-priced SSDs often provide better speed and features. However, budget options like the Patriot P210 still offer decent performance at lower costs.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reputable tech review sites, manufacturer specifications, and user reviews. Our focus was on current models with good reputations as of 2023.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 30 SSDs based on popularity and specifications. Each model was filtered for speed, capacity, and user ratings, resulting in our final 8 picks.
What we ruled out and why
Models with slow speeds below 1,000 MB/s or poor user reviews were eliminated. We also excluded outdated models that no longer meet current standards.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand or in labs. We relied on available data and user experiences to create our reviews and comparisons.
How often this page is updated
We plan to update this page every six months. This ensures you have the most current information on SSDs and any new releases.
Frequently asked questions
What does SSD stand for?
SSD stands for Solid State Drive. It is a type of storage device that uses flash memory to store data.
How fast are SSDs compared to traditional hard drives?
SSDs are much faster than traditional hard drives. They can transfer data at speeds over 7,000 MB/s, while hard drives are typically around 150 MB/s.
Are SSDs more reliable than HDDs?
Yes, SSDs are generally more reliable. They have no moving parts, which reduces the risk of failure compared to hard disk drives (HDDs).
How long do SSDs last?
Most SSDs can last up to 10 years or longer, depending on usage. Regular backup is still recommended.
What are the main benefits of SSDs?
SSDs offer faster boot times, quicker file transfers, and improved durability. They also consume less power than traditional hard drives.
What to look for
Speed
Speed is a key factor in choosing an SSD. Look for read speeds above 1,000 MB/s for everyday tasks. High-performance drives can reach up to 7,450 MB/s, making them great for gaming and video editing.
Capacity
Capacity is another important aspect. If you store a lot of files, consider a minimum of 1TB. For heavier users, 2TB or more is better to avoid running out of space.
Durability
Durability features matter, especially for portable SSDs. Choose models with an IP rating for water and dust resistance. This ensures your drive can withstand spills and rough handling.
Form Factor
The form factor of an SSD affects its compatibility. M.2 drives fit directly on the motherboard and are smaller. 2.5-inch SSDs are more common and fit into standard drive bays.
Interface
The interface type impacts speed and compatibility. PCIe 4.0 offers the fastest speeds. SATA drives are slower but may be more compatible with older systems.
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