Best Internal SSDs of 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Summary

Sources

pcmag.comrockpapershotgun.com

Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help consumers make better buying decisions. In recent years, solid-state drives (SSDs) have experienced significant advancements in speed, capacity, and affordability. Adding an internal SSD to an older PC as a new boot drive remains a cost-effective upgrade. PCMag analysts have independently reviewed hundreds of SSDs, evaluating them based on cost, value, rated endurance, and features. Among the top-rated internal SSDs is the Crucial T500, a full-featured PCIe 4.0 internal solid-state drive considered one of the best for building or upgrading a high-end PC. It is available in heatsink and non-heatsink versions, boasts strong benchmark scores, includes high-quality software, and is compatible with PlayStation 5. However, it has a fairly high cost per gigabyte and does not yet offer a four terabyte version. Another standout is the Samsung SSD 870 QVO, a 2.5-inch SATA SSD known for its excellent price-to-performance ratio. It features very fast four kilobyte read and write speeds and comes with feature-rich Magician management software. While it offers an eight terabyte version soon, its warranty is only three years, and its QLCs modest durability ratings make it less suited for heavy write duty. For gaming and PlayStation 5 upgrades, the Acer Predator GM7000 exceeds its rated speeds, offers good all-around benchmark performance, and includes 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption. It ships with a graphene-embedded foam heat spreader rather than an aluminum heatsink. The Crucial T705 stands out as the fastest internal SSD tested, with the fastest throughput speeds, AES 256-bit encryption, and an optional heatsink in two color choices. However, it requires a PCIe 5.0-compatible motherboard and CPU to reap its full benefits and is expensive. The Addlink AddGame A93 is a high-performance, inexpensive internal M.2 SSD great for gamers or anyone upgrading or building a new PC on a budget. It lacks AES 256-bit hardware-based encryption, and its DRAM-less architecture could affect sustained large-file transfers. The WD Black SN850X offers capacities up to four terabytes and comes with or without a heatsink. It exceeded both its sequential read and write speed ratings and aced PCMark and 3DMark storage tests. However, it lacks 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption. For PCI Express 3.0 upgrades, the Crucial P3 provides good performance, low cost per gigabyte for all models, and includes a link for Acronis True Image cloning software. Its relatively low write-durability ratings and lack of 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption are potential drawbacks. The Samsung SSD 980 is a mid-tier M.2 drive that edges out the Intel SSD 670p in four kilobyte random reads, offering competitive pricing for its performance class and a field-leading SSD software suite. However, it is still capped at PCI Express 3.0s natural ceiling. For maximum capacity, the TeamGroup MP44, available in capacities up to eight terabytes, has a high durability rating and an excellent PCMark 10 Overall score. However, its cost per gigabyte is much higher for the eight terabyte version, and it scores low in four kilobyte (random) write and small-file copy scores. Understanding the difference between internal and external SSDs, the nuances of how fast each kind can be, and the importance of SSD form factors and bus types is crucial. When buying an internal SSD, determining what the system can accept and the right SSD to buy depends on what one is doing with the computer and the aim. SSD capacity, speed, endurance, and price per gigabyte are important factors to consider, along with the SSDs warranty and endurance rating. Solid-state drives, or SSDs, have revolutionized data storage technology, offering substantial benefits over traditional hard disk drives. At the heart of the SSD evolution are the interfaces and form factors that define their functionality, speed, and application in computing environments. Understanding these elements is crucial for anyone looking to upgrade their system or grasp the advancements in SSD technology. The interfaces for SSDs primarily include SATA and NVMe. SATA, standing for Serial ATA, is an older interface designed initially for hard disk drives but later adopted for SSDs. It offers a maximum bandwidth of six gigabits per second, which translates to around 600 megabytes per second in real-world data transfer speeds. While SATA SSDs represent a significant leap over traditional hard disk drives in terms of speed, they are bound by the limitations of the SATA interface. Enter NVMe, or Non-Volatile Memory Express, a newer interface designed specifically for SSDs to exploit the speed potential of flash-based storage. Unlike SATA, which communicates over a single channel, NVMe utilizes the high-speed PCIe bus in computers, offering multiple lanes for data transfer. This architecture allows NVMe SSDs to reach speeds several times higher than SATA SSDs. For instance, a typical NVMe SSD can utilize four PCIe lanes, offering speeds up to 3.9 gigabytes per second, significantly outpacing SATA SSDs. Form factors further define SSDs, with 2.5-inch, M.2, and PCIe being the most common. The 2.5-inch form factor is shared with traditional hard drives, making these SSDs compatible with the existing bays in laptops and desktops. M.2 is a smaller form factor designed for internally mounted storage cards. M.2 SSDs are compact and connect directly to the motherboard via the M.2 slot, supporting both SATA and NVMe interfaces, depending on the SSD and motherboard specifications. PCIe SSDs, on the other hand, resemble expansion cards and slot directly into the PCIe slots on a motherboard, offering the highest performance levels among SSDs due to the direct connection to the computer’s PCIe bus. The technology within SSDs also varies, with terms like TLC (Triple-Level Cell) and QLC (Quad-Level Cell) indicating the type of NAND flash memory used. TLC NAND stores three bits of data per cell, offering a balance between cost, performance, and endurance. QLC NAND stores four bits per cell, increasing storage density and reducing cost but typically offering slower write speeds and lower endurance than TLC NAND. Understanding these differences is important when choosing an SSD, as they directly affect the drives performance and longevity. Read and write speeds are critical metrics for evaluating an SSDs performance. Read speed indicates how quickly data can be retrieved from the SSD, impacting everything from system boot times to how quickly applications load. Write speed refers to how fast data can be saved to the drive, affecting file transfer times and the performance of tasks that require frequent data writes. Higher read and write speeds translate to better overall system responsiveness and efficiency. In summary, the landscape of SSD technology is marked by a variety of interfaces, form factors, and internal technologies. From the widespread adoption of SATA and the high-speed capabilities of NVMe to the compact design of M.2 form factors and the significance of NAND flash types, these elements collectively influence the performance, application, and value of SSDs in modern computing environments. Understanding these aspects is essential for making informed decisions when selecting an SSD for any given need, ensuring the best balance of speed, capacity, and cost. In the swiftly evolving world of solid-state drives, selecting the optimal SSD for your needs can be a daunting task. The year 2024 brings an array of exceptional internal SSDs to the forefront, each excelling in different categories such as overall performance, budget-friendliness, gaming prowess, and high-capacity storage solutions. Among these top contenders, the Crucial T500, WD Black SN850X, and Samsung 870 Evo stand out for their remarkable performance, durability, and value. The Crucial T500 emerges as the best overall pick for most users in 2024. This M.2 form factor SSD leverages the PCIe 4.0 interface to deliver outstanding read and write speeds, up to 7400 megabytes per second and 7000 megabytes per second, respectively. With its inclusion of high-quality software and compatibility with PlayStation 5, the Crucial T500 caters to a wide range of users, from professional creatives to avid gamers, making it a versatile choice for those seeking top-tier performance without compromises. For budget-conscious consumers seeking substantial performance upgrades without breaking the bank, the Addlink AddGame A93 shines as the best budget M.2 drive for PCI Express 4.0 upgrades. Despite its moderate price point, the AddGame A93 does not skimp on speed, offering read and write speeds competitive with higher-priced models. Its compatibility with PlayStation 5 and inclusion of a compact heatsink further enhance its appeal, providing strong benchmark results and good durability ratings that defy its budget-friendly status. Gamers, in particular, will find the WD Black SN850X to be an unrivaled SSD in 2024, specifically tailored to meet the demands of high-end gaming rigs and consoles. With capacities reaching up to four terabytes and the option to include a heatsink for improved thermal management, the WD Black SN850X not only offers ample storage for expansive game libraries but also excels in performance. It boasts read and write speeds that exceed its predecessors, along with top results in PCMark and 3DMark storage tests, ensuring smooth, swift loading times and a seamless gaming experience. For users with extensive data storage needs, the Samsung SSD 870 Qvo stands out as the best choice for high-capacity storage. Available in sizes up to an impressive eight terabytes, this 2.5-inch SATA SSD provides an excellent price-to-performance ratio, making it an ideal solution for storing large volumes of data, be it multimedia files, extensive software suites, or massive game collections. The 870 Qvos strong 4K read and write speeds, coupled with its feature-rich Magician management software, guarantee a reliable and efficient storage solution that doesnt compromise on speed despite its vast capacity. In conclusion, the landscape of internal SSDs in 2024 is rich with options tailored to diverse needs and preferences. Whether prioritizing sheer performance, cost efficiency, gaming enhancements, or storage capacity, theres an SSD model designed to excel in each category. The Crucial T500, WD Black SN850X, Addlink AddGame A93, and Samsung 870 Evo each represent the pinnacle of current SSD technology, offering users a range of choices to significantly boost their systems speed, efficiency, and storage capabilities. In the dynamic realm of PC and console gaming, the advent of solid-state drives has heralded a new era of performance and efficiency. The impact of SSDs on gaming is multifaceted, influencing everything from game load times to installation sizes, and even the overall gaming experience. Among the plethora of SSDs available, certain models stand out for their gaming prowess, notably the WD Black SN850X and the Crucial T500, both of which have proven to be game-changers—quite literally—for gamers seeking the upper edge. The significance of load times in gaming cannot be overstated. With traditional hard disk drives, gamers often found themselves at the mercy of prolonged load screens, which not only disrupted the gaming experience but also detracted from the immersive nature of modern games. Enter SSDs, and the scenario transforms dramatically. The WD Black SN850X, with its exceptional read and write speeds of up to 7300 megabytes per second and 6300 megabytes per second respectively, slashes load times drastically. This means gamers can transition from game menus to action-packed gaming worlds in mere seconds, a feature that is especially beneficial in games notorious for their long load times. Game installation sizes have also ballooned in recent years, with many titles now exceeding 100 gigabytes. This trend underscores the need for substantial storage solutions that do not compromise on speed. The Crucial T500 excels in this regard, offering sizes up to two terabytes. This capacity, combined with its PCIe 4.0 interface, ensures that gamers have ample space for their favorite titles, along with the rapid read/write speeds necessary for smooth gaming and quick content loads. The suitability of SSDs for gaming rigs and consoles has become an essential consideration for gamers. The PlayStation 5, for example, has specific requirements for SSD expansion, necessitating drives that not only fit physically but also match the consoles high-performance benchmarks. Both the WD Black SN850X and the Crucial T500 meet these criteria, offering compatibility with the PlayStation 5. This compatibility ensures that gamers can expand their consoles storage without sacrificing performance, making these SSDs ideal for console gamers looking to enhance their gaming library and reduce load times. Moreover, the inclusion of technologies such as 256-bit AES encryption in certain SSD models adds an extra layer of data security, ensuring that gamers data remains protected. This feature, while not directly impacting gaming performance, provides peace of mind, especially in an era where digital security is paramount. In conclusion, the transition to SSDs represents a monumental shift in gaming technology, offering benefits that extend well beyond reduced load times. The WD Black SN850X and the Crucial T500 exemplify the best of what SSDs can offer to the gaming community—blazing-fast speeds, ample storage capacities, and compatibility with the latest gaming consoles. As games continue to evolve, demanding more from the hardware they run on, SSDs like these will not only become the standard but will also continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in gaming. Choosing the right solid-state drive (SSD) for your needs is a critical decision that can significantly affect your computers performance, efficiency, and usability. With a wide array of SSDs on the market, each offering different capacities, speeds, endurance levels, and price points, navigating through the options can be overwhelming. This guide aims to simplify the selection process, focusing on key factors such as capacity, speed, endurance, and price per gigabyte, while highlighting important considerations and trade-offs. Capacity is often the first consideration when selecting an SSD. It determines how much data you can store on your device, from operating systems and applications to personal files and games. While larger capacities offer more storage space, they also come with higher price tags. Balancing your storage needs with your budget is essential. For most users, a 500 gigabyte to one terabyte SSD strikes a good balance between space and cost, providing ample room for everyday computing needs. Gamers and professionals who deal with large files may require higher capacities, such as two terabytes or more, to accommodate their extensive data and applications. Speed is another critical factor, directly impacting your systems responsiveness and performance. SSDs are generally faster than traditional hard disk drives, but theres considerable variation among SSDs themselves, primarily dictated by the interface—SATA or NVMe. NVMe SSDs, leveraging the PCIe bus, offer significantly higher speeds than SATA SSDs, making them ideal for tasks that demand rapid data access, such as gaming, video editing, and large-scale data analysis. However, this superior performance comes at a higher cost, making NVMe SSDs a premium choice. Endurance, or the lifespan of an SSD, is measured in terabytes written (TBW), indicating the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifetime. SSDs with higher endurance are typically more durable and reliable, making them suitable for intensive write operations and long-term use. When selecting an SSD, consider your usage patterns and choose a drive with a TBW rating that aligns with your expected data writing activities. For average users, a drive with a moderate TBW rating will suffice, while power users and professionals should look for higher-rated drives. Price per gigabyte helps gauge an SSDs value, offering a straightforward comparison between different models and capacities. Generally, larger-capacity drives offer a lower price per gigabyte, providing better value. However, its important to balance cost with your specific needs and not over-purchase capacity you may never use. Additionally, consider the drives speed and endurance when evaluating its price, as these factors also contribute to the overall value. The trade-off between speed and capacity is a common consideration. High-speed NVMe SSDs with large capacities tend to be expensive, potentially stretching beyond some users budgets. In such cases, prioritizing your primary need—speed for performance or capacity for storage—can guide your decision. Alternatively, a hybrid approach, using a smaller NVMe SSD for the operating system and frequently used applications, paired with a larger SATA SSD or hard drive for bulk storage, can offer a balanced solution. The SSD landscape continues to evolve, with new technologies and standards emerging that promise even higher speeds, larger capacities, and better endurance. Staying informed about these developments can help you make a future-proof investment in your storage solution. In summary, selecting the right SSD involves careful consideration of capacity, speed, endurance, and price per gigabyte, along with an understanding of your specific needs and usage patterns. By balancing these factors and staying abreast of technological advancements, you can choose an SSD that enhances your computing experience, meets your performance and storage requirements, and offers lasting value.