Solid State Drives have evolved from niche upgrades into essential components for nearly every type of user—from casual laptop owners to hardcore gamers and professional content creators. Their speed, durability, and falling cost have made them the go-to option for storage in 2025. But with so many choices on the market, picking the right SSD can feel overwhelming. Some users need raw speed, while others prioritize price, form factor compatibility, or rugged portability. Whether you’re building a high-performance rig, upgrading an old laptop, or just need a fast external drive for media projects, this guide breaks down the best SSDs available right now. We’ve ranked them based on performance, features, reliability, and overall value.
Best SSDs for 2025 – Ranked
These SSDs cover a wide spectrum of use cases. The top-tier Samsung 990 PRO and EVO Plus deliver unmatched NVMe speed for gamers and professionals. Midrange picks like the WD_BLACK SN770 and Samsung 870 EVO offer an excellent balance of value and performance. Portable options like the T7 and T7 Shield give creators speed and durability on the go. And budget-friendly options like the Crucial BX500 and Kingston A400 offer solid upgrades for older machines without stretching your wallet.
Best SSDs for 2025
Solid State Drives (SSDs) have revolutionized storage technology with faster speeds and improved reliability compared to traditional hard drives. Modern SSDs offer exceptional performance for everyday computing tasks, gaming, and professional workloads while prices continue to drop as technology advances. Our comprehensive list highlights the top SSDs available today, considering factors like speed, durability, capacity options, and value.
Crucial BX500 2TB SSD
The Crucial BX500 2TB SSD delivers exceptional value with its blend of reliability, speed, and capacity, making it an ideal upgrade for anyone looking to boost their system’s performance.
Pros
- 300% faster performance than traditional hard drives
- Energy efficient design extends laptop battery life
- Backed by Micron’s 40 years of memory technology experience
Cons
- Limited to SATA interface speeds (up to 540MB/s)
- No built-in encryption features
- Basic feature set compared to premium SSDs
This 2TB model offers ample storage space for most users while delivering the speed benefits of solid-state technology. With read speeds reaching 540MB/s, files load quickly and system responsiveness improves dramatically compared to mechanical drives. The drive fits standard 2.5-inch laptop and desktop bays with its 7mm form factor.
Installation requires minimal technical knowledge. The BX500 connects via standard SATA interface, making it compatible with most computers manufactured in the last decade. Many users report significant performance improvements even in older systems, breathing new life into aging hardware without requiring a complete replacement.
Crucial designed this drive with efficiency in mind. It consumes 45 times less energy than typical hard drives, which translates to longer battery life for laptop users. This efficiency also means less heat generation, potentially extending the lifespan of surrounding components. The 3-year warranty provides additional peace of mind for buyers concerned about long-term reliability.
The dust-resistant design helps maintain performance in less-than-ideal environments. For gamers and productivity users alike, the BX500 eliminates the frustrating loading delays associated with mechanical drives. At its price point, this SSD represents an excellent balance between performance, capacity, and affordability.
Samsung 990 PRO SSD
The Samsung 990 PRO offers exceptional speed and efficiency that makes it a top choice for gamers and heavy computing users who need premium storage performance.
Pros
- Lightning-fast read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s
- Excellent power efficiency compared to previous models
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires PCIe 4.0 support for maximum performance
- Heatsink version costs extra but may be necessary for sustained loads
Samsung’s 990 PRO represents a significant leap in NVMe storage technology. This Gen4 SSD delivers near-maximum PCIe 4.0 performance with read speeds reaching 7450 MB/s. Users upgrading from previous generation drives will immediately notice faster boot times, quicker application loads, and smoother overall system performance.
Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the substantial improvement in loading times. The 990 PRO shows a 55% boost in random performance compared to the previous 980 PRO model, which translates to faster texture loading and reduced stuttering in demanding titles. Video editors and content creators can transfer large files almost instantly, streamlining workflow.
Power efficiency sets this drive apart from competitors. Samsung engineered the 990 PRO with smart heat control that maintains high performance while consuming less power. This means users get more performance per watt – up to 50% better than previous models. The 2TB capacity offers plenty of space for modern game libraries or professional workloads without requiring constant storage management.
Installation proves straightforward in compatible systems. The standard M.2 2280 form factor fits most modern motherboards and laptops. Users should verify their system supports PCIe 4.0 to unlock the drive’s full potential, though it remains backward compatible with PCIe 3.0 systems at reduced speeds.
Samsung backs this product with their reputation as a leading flash memory manufacturer. The drive represents the culmination of their storage expertise, delivering performance that approaches the theoretical limits of the PCIe 4.0 interface.
Samsung 990 EVO Plus 2TB SSD
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus offers exceptional speed and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for gamers and professionals who need reliable high-performance storage.
Pros
- Lightning-fast read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s
- Advanced thermal control system prevents overheating
- Compatible with both PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 interfaces
Cons
- Higher price point than some competitor models
- Maximum performance requires newer motherboard support
- Power users may prefer the Pro series for sustained workloads
Speed defines the 990 EVO Plus experience. Samsung’s latest NAND memory technology delivers remarkable transfer rates that significantly reduce loading times for applications and games. The drive’s Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 technology maintains consistent performance during large file transfers, preventing the slowdowns common in lesser SSDs.
Thermal efficiency sets this drive apart from competitors. The nickel-coated controller runs cooler while using less power, extending battery life in laptops and reducing thermal throttling during intensive tasks. This balance of performance and efficiency makes the 990 EVO Plus suitable for compact builds where heat management is crucial.
Compatibility with both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 interfaces ensures this drive works well with current systems while remaining future-proof. Samsung’s Magician Software provides regular firmware updates and health monitoring tools that help maintain optimal performance throughout the drive’s lifespan. With 2TB of storage space, most users will find plenty of room for operating systems, applications, and game libraries.
Installation proves straightforward in both desktop and laptop systems thanks to the standard M.2 2280 form factor. The drive’s impressive 4.8-star rating from over 2,600 customers reflects its reliability and performance in real-world use. For those building high-performance systems or upgrading aging computers, the 990 EVO Plus represents an excellent balance of speed, efficiency, and dependability.
PNY CS900 500GB SSD
The PNY CS900 offers excellent value for anyone seeking a reliable and affordable SSD upgrade that will significantly boost their computer’s performance.
Pros
- Impressive speed improvement over traditional hard drives
- Budget-friendly price point with solid reliability
- Simple installation process for most computers
Cons
- Not the fastest SSD compared to premium models
- Limited included software tools
- 3-year warranty is shorter than some competitors
The PNY CS900 500GB SSD provides a straightforward path to better computing performance. Users switching from traditional hard drives will notice dramatically faster boot times and quicker application loading. This SATA III drive delivers sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 500MB/s, which transforms everyday computing tasks.
Storage reliability remains a key advantage of this model. The CS900 uses 3D NAND technology that enhances durability while reducing power consumption compared to mechanical hard drives. Many users report years of stable operation without issues, making it suitable for both desktop and laptop upgrades.
Compatibility rarely poses problems with this drive. The standard 2.5-inch form factor fits most computers, and at just 7mm in height, it works well even in slimmer laptops. Installation requires minimal technical knowledge – simply connect the SATA cable and power. The drive’s lightweight design (only 1.9 ounces) makes it especially appealing for portable computer upgrades where every ounce matters.
Budget-conscious shoppers will appreciate the balance of performance and affordability. While premium SSDs might offer marginally faster speeds, the real-world difference remains negligible for typical users. Gamers and creative professionals with demanding workloads may want higher-end options, but for general computing, web browsing, and basic productivity, the CS900 delivers excellent performance at its price point.
Samsung 870 EVO SSD
The Samsung 870 EVO offers exceptional performance and reliability for users seeking a high-quality SATA SSD upgrade that maximizes the potential of older systems without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Pushes SATA interface to its limits with 560/530 MB/s read/write speeds
- Extensive compatibility with various systems including PCs, laptops, and NAS devices
- Backed by Samsung’s 5-year warranty with high endurance rating (600 TBW for 1TB model)
Cons
- SATA interface limits absolute performance compared to newer NVMe drives
- Price premium over budget SATA SSDs from competing brands
- Software utilities require additional installation
Samsung’s 870 EVO represents the culmination of years of SATA SSD development. This drive effectively maximizes what’s possible within the SATA interface constraints, delivering consistent performance that approaches the theoretical bandwidth limits of SATA III. Users upgrading from mechanical hard drives will experience dramatically improved system responsiveness.
The drive utilizes Samsung’s in-house components including NAND flash memory and controller technology. This vertical integration contributes to the 870 EVO’s excellent reliability record and consistent performance characteristics. Samsung’s reputation as the world’s leading flash memory manufacturer since 2003 provides additional confidence in the product’s quality.
Installation requires minimal technical knowledge. The standard 2.5-inch form factor fits most desktop and laptop computers, while Samsung provides migration software to simplify the transfer process from existing drives. The Samsung Magician software offers helpful tools for monitoring drive health and optimizing performance over time.
For content creators and professionals, the 870 EVO’s larger variable buffer helps maintain performance during intensive tasks like video editing. The drive supports various encryption standards including AES 256-bit, making it suitable for business environments with data security requirements. While newer PCIe-based SSDs offer higher absolute performance, the 870 EVO remains an excellent choice for maximizing the potential of systems with SATA connections.
Samsung T7 Portable SSD
The Samsung T7 offers exceptional speed, durability, and portability, making it an ideal investment for anyone seeking reliable external storage.
Pros
- Lightning-fast transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s
- Compact, pocket-sized design with robust aluminum body
- Versatile compatibility across multiple devices
Cons
- Premium pricing compared to traditional external drives
- Requires newer hardware for maximum speed benefits
- May run warm during extended file transfers
The Samsung T7 represents a significant upgrade from traditional external hard drives. This sleek device delivers transfer speeds up to 9.5 times faster than conventional options, allowing users to move large files quickly and efficiently. The 1TB capacity provides ample space for important documents, high-resolution photos, and even extensive video projects.
Durability stands out as a key feature of the T7. The solid aluminum unibody construction offers protection against drops of up to six feet, making it a reliable companion for professionals on the go. Samsung’s reputation for quality extends throughout the device, with all components produced in-house for consistent performance and reliability.
Compatibility is another advantage of this portable SSD. It works seamlessly with Windows PCs, Mac computers, Android devices, and various gaming consoles. The included USB Type-C to Type-C and Type-C to Type-A cables enhance this versatility, eliminating the need for additional adapters in most situations. This drive performs particularly well for creative professionals who need to transfer large files between different devices.
The T7’s performance truly shines when handling demanding tasks. Video editors can record 4K footage directly to the drive, while gamers benefit from faster load times. Its PCIe NVMe technology enables read/write speeds of up to 1050/1000 MB/s, significantly reducing wait times compared to previous generation external drives.
Samsung has also incorporated practical security features into the T7. Users can protect their data with optional password protection and AES 256-bit hardware encryption. This combination of speed, durability, and security makes the Samsung T7 a standout choice in the portable SSD market.
SP Silicon Power 1TB SSD
This affordable 1TB SSD delivers impressive performance for everyday computing tasks while maintaining excellent reliability at a price point that won’t strain your budget.
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds with 3D NAND technology
- Slim 7mm design fits ultrabooks and slim laptops
- Includes reliability features like TRIM and ECC support
Cons
- Not the fastest option for intensive workloads
- Some users report formatting issues
- Limited technical support resources
The SP Silicon Power 1TB SSD offers solid performance for users seeking reliable storage without premium pricing. Its 3D NAND flash technology enables faster boot times and improves overall system responsiveness compared to traditional hard drives. The slim 7mm form factor makes this drive particularly suitable for thin laptops and ultrabooks.
Advanced SLC Cache Technology helps maintain consistent performance while extending the drive’s lifespan. This feature proves especially beneficial during sustained file transfers where slower SSDs might experience performance degradation. The SATA III interface provides compatibility with most systems, though it won’t match the speeds of newer NVMe drives.
Reliability stands out as a key strength with this SSD. It supports TRIM commands and Garbage Collection technology to maintain performance over time. The drive also includes Error Checking & Correction (ECC) and RAID support, features typically found in more expensive options. SP Silicon Power backs this drive with a 3-year limited warranty after registration through their website.
Users upgrading from traditional hard drives will notice dramatic improvements in daily computing tasks. Application loading, file transfers, and system boot times see significant speed increases. The drive’s size and standard SATA interface make installation straightforward in most desktop and laptop computers.
Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD
The Samsung T7 Shield delivers exceptional performance in a durable package, making it ideal for users who need reliable storage on the go.
Pros
- Outstanding transfer speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s
- Rugged design with IP65 water and dust resistance
- Compatible with multiple devices including PC, Mac, and gaming consoles
Cons
- Premium price point compared to standard external drives
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2 for maximum performance
- Bulkier than non-rugged portable SSDs
The T7 Shield stands out in Samsung’s portable storage lineup with its focus on durability. Unlike standard external drives, this SSD features a protective elastomer exterior that can withstand drops from up to 9.8 feet. This makes it particularly valuable for photographers, videographers, and other content creators who work in challenging environments.
Performance is another area where this drive excels. With read speeds reaching 1,050 MB/s and write speeds of 1,000 MB/s, the T7 Shield transfers large files significantly faster than traditional hard drives. Users can edit video directly from the drive without the lag typically associated with external storage solutions. The drive works especially well with modern devices, including iPhone 15 models for Pro Res 4K video storage.
Physical dimensions remain modest despite the added protection. At just 3.39 x 2.24 x 0.49 inches and weighing 3.42 ounces, the T7 Shield fits easily in a pocket or camera bag. The blue color option provides a distinctive look, though it’s also available in other colors. Samsung backs this drive with their reputation as the leading flash memory manufacturer, providing additional peace of mind for those investing in portable storage.
WD_BLACK SN770 NVMe 2TB Gaming SSD
The WD_BLACK SN770 delivers exceptional speed and reliability that makes it an outstanding choice for gamers seeking faster load times and smoother gameplay experiences.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 5,150 MB/s read speeds drastically reduce loading screens
- PCIe Gen4 compatibility ensures future-proofing while maintaining backward compatibility
- WD_BLACK Dashboard software allows easy performance monitoring and optimization
Cons
- Heat output may require adequate system cooling during intensive tasks
- No included heatsink unlike some competitor models
- Dashboard software limited to Windows users only
This high-performance NVMe drive transforms gaming experiences with its impressive speed capabilities. Games load in seconds rather than minutes, and system responsiveness feels noticeably improved. With PCIe Gen4 technology, the SN770 prevents in-game stuttering and enhances streaming quality.
Storage capacity is generous at 2TB, providing ample space for extensive game libraries including modern titles that often exceed 100GB each. The drive also supports Microsoft’s DirectStorage technology, making it future-ready for upcoming games designed to take advantage of this faster loading architecture.
Reliability matches the impressive speed specs. Western Digital has established a solid reputation in storage solutions, and the 4.8-star rating from over 21,000 customers confirms the quality. Installation proves straightforward in compatible motherboards or laptops with M.2 slots.
Temperature management deserves consideration when pushing the drive with intensive operations. While not requiring a dedicated heatsink for most uses, ensuring proper airflow within your system will help maintain optimal performance during extended gaming sessions.
Value represents another strong point for the SN770. It delivers premium performance metrics without the premium price tag of some competitors. Gamers upgrading from standard SSDs or HDDs will notice dramatic improvements in loading times and system responsiveness.
Western Digital’s gaming-focused optimization makes this drive particularly well-suited for dedicated gaming rigs. The WD_BLACK Dashboard software provides useful performance monitoring tools and gaming mode optimization, though this benefit applies only to Windows users.
Kingston A400 SSD
The Kingston A400 SSD delivers exceptional value with its impressive speed increase over traditional hard drives and reliability at an affordable price point.
Pros
- 10x faster performance than traditional hard drives
- Shock and vibration resistant for mobile use
- Slim 7mm form factor fits in various systems
Cons
- Lacks DRAM cache found in premium models
- Not the fastest SSD on the market
- Limited to SATA interface speeds
The Kingston A400 offers a simple yet effective storage solution for users looking to upgrade from mechanical hard drives. With read speeds up to 500MB/s and write speeds reaching 450MB/s, this drive significantly reduces boot times and file transfers compared to traditional HDDs. Many users report their older systems feeling completely rejuvenated after installation.
Durability stands out as a key advantage for the A400. Unlike mechanical drives with moving parts prone to failure, this solid-state drive uses flash memory technology. This design choice makes it more resistant to drops and bumps, particularly valuable for laptop users who transport their devices regularly. The drive also runs cooler and quieter than conventional HDDs.
Installation simplicity adds to the A400’s appeal for less technical users. Its standard 2.5-inch form factor with a slim 7mm profile ensures compatibility with most laptops and desktops. The 480GB capacity hits a sweet spot for many users, providing enough space for an operating system and essential applications without a premium price tag. For those seeking reliability on a budget, the Kingston A400 represents an excellent balance of performance and affordability.
Buying Guide
Selecting the right SSD for your needs requires understanding several key factors. Storage capacity should match your usage patterns – casual users might find 250-500GB sufficient, while professionals often need 1TB or more.
Form Factors
SSDs come in various physical sizes to fit different devices:
- 2.5-inch SATA: Common in laptops and desktops
- M.2: Slim, stick-shaped drives for modern motherboards
- PCIe add-in cards: High-performance options for desktops
- External SSDs: Portable drives connected via USB
Interface Types
The connection type significantly impacts performance:
| Interface | Sequential Read Speeds | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| SATA III | ~550 MB/s | Budget builds, older systems |
| PCIe 3.0 NVMe | ~3,500 MB/s | Mid-range systems |
| PCIe 4.0 NVMe | ~7,000 MB/s | High-end workstations, gaming |
Durability matters for long-term reliability. Check the TBW (Terabytes Written) rating, which indicates how much data can be written before potential failure.
Power users should consider DRAM cache presence, which improves performance with frequently accessed files. Many budget SSDs omit this feature to reduce costs.
Cost Considerations
Price per gigabyte varies widely based on technology. SATA drives offer the most affordable storage, while PCIe 4.0 NVMe commands premium prices. Consider your performance needs against your budget constraints.
Warranty length often reflects manufacturer confidence in their product. Quality SSDs typically offer 3-5 year warranties and higher TBW ratings.
