Best SSD for Acer Nitro 5

Posted on by

Looking for the best SSDs for the Acer Nitro 5? Here are our top recommended M.2 PCIe SSDs and 2.5-inch SATA SSDs for Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop.

In the world of gaming laptops, the Acer Nitro 5 has long held a reputation for delivering a stellar blend of power, performance, and affordability. The latest Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop is powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12650H 10-Core processor and 16GB of 5200 MHz DDR5 VRAM that can handle your favorite games with ease.

When it comes to gaming, storage speed can make a world of difference, and the built-in 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD on the Acer Nitro 5 undoubtedly delivers impressive boot and load times. But for avid gamers and power users who demand more space and even faster performance, the Acer Nitro 5 offers flexibility with its 2x hard drive slots: 1x 2.5 inch SATA SSD slot and 1x M.2 PCIe SSD slot. This means you can take advantage of additional storage and upgrade potential, optimizing your gaming experience and ensuring you’re always ready to jump into the action.

In this guide, we’re here to help you navigate the world of solid-state drives (SSDs) and present our top recommended SSDs for the Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop. Whether you’re looking to expand your storage capacity, boost your loading speeds, or both, we’ve got you covered. We’ll explore a range of M.2 PCIe SSDs and 2.5-inch SATA SSDs that perfectly complement the Acer Nitro 5’s performance capabilities, taking your gaming adventures to new heights.

Our Top Pick:

Best M.2 PCIe SSDs for Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop:

  1. Samsung 990 PRO: Best Overall PCIe 4.0 SSD
  2. WD BLACK SN850X: Best PCIe 4.0 SSD / Best M.2 SSD Alternative
  3. Seagate FireCuda 530: Best M.2 SSD Alternative
  4. Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS: Best High-Capacity PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD
  5. Samsung 980 PRO: Still an excellent PCIe 4.0 SSD
  6. Crucial P5 Plus: Best Value PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD

Best 2.5-inch SATA SSDs for Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop:

  1. Samsung 870 EVO: Best Overall 2.5-inch SATA SSD
  2. Crucial MX500: Budget 2.5-inch SATA SSD / Best Value
  3. WD Blue SA510: Fast SATA SSD for heavy workloads
  4. Samsung 870 QVO: The highest capacity SATA SSD
  5. Crucial BX500: Best budget SATA SSD

See also: Best PCIe 5.0 SSDs and Best SATA SSDs.

Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop Store Links at B&H.

Best M.2 PCIe SSDs for Acer Nitro 5

1. Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD

Best Overall PCIe 4.0 SSD

Samsung 990 PRO Internal SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 1TB, 2TB
  • Sequential Reads up to 7450 MB/s
  • Sequential Writes up to 6900 MB/s
  • M.2 2280 Form Factor
  • PCIe 4.0 x4 / NVMe 2.0 Interface
  • Up to 1200TB TBW (Total Bytes Written)
  • Samsung V-NAND Flash Technology
  • AES 256-Bit Encryption
  • Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • Top-end performance for a PCIe 4.0 SSD
  • Excellent software and support
  • Heatsink and RGB options
  • Consistent, efficient, and cool

Cons:

  • Only 1TB and 2TB models available
  • Pricey

The Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 M.2 Internal SSD is a remarkable advancement over its predecessor, the 980 Pro, establishing itself as a heavyweight contender in the M.2 SSD arena. This drive embodies top-tier performance, securing its position as the best overall and best M.2 SSD available. With cutting-edge hardware enhancements and enticing options like an RGB-equipped heatsink and a forthcoming 4TB variant, Samsung is unequivocally at the forefront of the M.2 SSD race.

The 990 PRO dazzles with its exceptional across-the-board performance, setting new benchmarks in areas like 4K random read performance. From consistent performance to power efficiency and temperature management, this drive earns high marks in every aspect. Backed by a robust warranty and commendable support, it offers reliability that users can trust.

One of the standout features is the optional heatsink with RGB lighting, offered at a mere $20 premium—a bargain for the added aesthetic appeal and enhanced thermal management. Pricing trends suggest that Samsung might offer discounts sooner rather than later, making this gem even more accessible.

Leveraging Samsung’s V-NAND 3-bit MLC flash technology and in-house Pascal controller, the 990 PRO delivers blistering sequential read speeds up to 7450 MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 6900 MB/s. It doesn’t falter in random read and write speeds either, boasting up to 1.4 million and 1.55 million IOPS respectively. This drive is versatile, fitting seamlessly into desktops, laptops, and even the PlayStation 5 console.

The new Pascal controller boosts efficiency by 50% compared to its predecessor, resulting in improved battery life for portable systems. Samsung’s Dynamic Thermal Guard Technology and nickel-coated controller ensure optimal temperature regulation. Software support through the updated Magician application and AES 256-bit encryption contribute to an impressive feature set.

While competitors offer PCIe 5.0 drives with faster speeds, they command a premium. Samsung’s 990 PRO strikes a balance between unmatched performance and competitive pricing, maintaining its stance as the champion of PCIe 4.0 storage solutions. It’s an excellent choice for those who demand nothing short of the best for their high-performance systems. Though the 990 PRO might be limited to 1TB and 2TB models for now, its outstanding attributes make it a clear leader in the SSD market.

Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

2. WD BLACK SN850X Gaming Internal NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD

Best PCIe 4.0 SSD / Best M.2 SSD Alternative

WD BLACK SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
  • Up to 7300 MB/s Sequential Read Speed
  • Up to 6600 MB/s Sequential Write Speed
  • M.2 2280 Form Factor
  • PCIe 4.0 x4 Interface
  • 1.75 Million Hours MTTF
  • 1200TB Endurance
  • Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • Top-tier performance
  • Decently affordable given its speed
  • Optional heatsink/RGB and a good range of capacities
  • Software support with sufficient warranty

Cons:

  • Pricey per gigabyte

The WD Black SN850X PCIe 4.0 SSD emerges as a compelling runner-up, building upon the already solid foundation of its predecessor, the SN850. Designed for PC enthusiasts and gamers, this SSD offers an impressive performance boost and a range of features that make it an attractive choice for those seeking top-tier storage solutions.

Comparing it to its predecessor, the SN850X presents substantial improvements. With read speeds reaching an impressive 7,300MB/s and write speeds at 6,300MB/s, it surpasses its predecessor’s capabilities. The expansion in capacity to a whopping 4TB, up from the previous 2TB limit, adds convenience for users with larger storage needs.

The SN850X doesn’t merely shine on paper. In real-world scenarios, its performance speaks volumes, rivalling even the FireCuda 530 in speed and demonstrating exceptional random write performance. Western Digital has incorporated a Game Mode 2.0 feature, enhancing drive performance for gamers, particularly when multitasking during gaming and recording.

This SSD also addresses the thermal considerations for desktop users, offering a heatsink bundle option. While the initial launch price might have been on the higher side, it has gradually become more budget-friendly, enhancing its overall value proposition.

Though it doesn’t outshine every competitor, the WD Black SN850X’s impressive controller and flash technology harness PCIe 4.0 effectively, making it a strong contender in its market segment. The inclusion of an optional RGB heatsink model and decent software support, backed by a five-year warranty, further enhance its appeal.

Nonetheless, it’s important to note that the SN850X’s per-gigabyte pricing could be considered a drawback, and the Game Mode 2.0 feature might need future firmware updates to truly fulfill its potential. All in all, the WD Black SN850X sets a high standard for gaming SSDs, delivering speed, capacity, and durability to propel your gaming and computing experience to new heights.

WD BLACK SN850X Gaming Internal NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD at B&H, Adorama.

3. Seagate FireCuda 530 PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 Internal SSD

Best Workstation SSD / Best M.2 SSD Alternative

Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
  • Up to 7300 MB/s Read Speed
  • Up to 6900 MB/s Write Speed
  • Sony PlayStation 5 Compatible
  • M.2 2280 Form Factor
  • PCIe 4.0 x4 Interface
  • 3D TLC NAND Flash Technology
  • TBW: 2550TB
  • S.M.A.R.T. & TRIM Support
  • Designed for Gaming & Content Creation
  • Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • Very fast PCIe 4.0 performance
  • Very impressive sustained write speeds
  • Impressive endurance ratings
  • 5-year warranty w/ 3-year data rescue service

Cons:

  • Less efficient than some competitors
  • Expensive

The Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD emerges as a true powerhouse in the realm of storage solutions, setting new standards for speed and performance. Tailored to elevate gaming and content creation experiences, this M.2 2280 SSD, equipped with a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface, unleashes astonishing read and write speeds of up to 7300 MB/s and 6900 MB/s, respectively.

The FireCuda 530’s prowess doesn’t stop at speed; it’s engineered for resilience and longevity. Anchored by a Seagate-validated E18 controller and 3D TLC NAND memory, it thrives in the face of demanding tasks, empowering you to fully explore your machine’s potential.

Delivering snappy performance through its PCIe 4.0 x4 interface, the FireCuda 530 offers a seamless experience, catering to both current and legacy systems with backward compatibility to PCIe 3.0 motherboards, albeit at slightly reduced speeds.

Gaming and content creation enthusiasts will relish the drive’s prowess, offering speeds twice that of PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSDs and up to twelve times faster than SATA SSDs, ensuring seamless execution of intensive tasks.

Moreover, the FireCuda 530’s remarkable durability, boasting a total bytes written (TBW) rating of 2550TB, translates to years of uninterrupted use, withstanding the rigors of daily data activity.

Its colossal 4TB storage capacity stands ready to accommodate even the most graphics-intensive games and sizable files. Coupled with the inclusion of three years of Rescue Data Recovery Services, which boasts a 95% success rate against unexpected data loss, the Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD emerges as an unwavering guardian of your digital world.

In summary, the Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD is a true titan, delivering unprecedented speed, resilience, and reliability, poised to redefine your computing experience for gaming and content creation.

Seagate FireCuda 530 PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

4. Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD

Best High-Performance High-Capacity M.2 SSD

Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS Internal SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB
  • Up to 7100 MB/s Read Speed
  • Up to 6600 MB/s Write Speed
  • M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 Form Factor
  • Backward Compatible with PCIe 3.0
  • Built-In Power Management
  • ONFi 2.3, 3.0, 3.2 & 4.0 Interface
  • Works with SMART and TRIM Commands
  • Up to 6,000 TBW Endurance
  • Up to 5 Years Warranty

Pros:

  • The highest capacity (8T)
  • Uses TLC and not QLC for such a large capacity
  • Absolute performance remains strong

Cons:

  • Expensive

The Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD is a true powerhouse, standing tall as one of the fastest SSDs available in the market. It offers a perfect blend of speed, high-capacity storage, and cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts and professionals seeking optimal performance.

With support for NVMe PCIe M.2 interface and a form factor of 2280 (80mm), this SSD harnesses the impressive capabilities of Toshiba’s BiCS4 96L TLC NAND Flash memory and PCIe 4.0 bandwidth. The result is a jaw-dropping maximum read speed of 7100 MB/s and a write speed of 6600 MB/s, providing an unrivaled computing experience on compatible motherboards.

Moreover, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS maintains backward compatibility with PCIe 3.0 motherboards, ensuring impressive read speeds of up to 3400 MB/s and write speeds of 3000 MB/s on older systems.

Equipped with built-in power management, the SSD adapts seamlessly to different power states, including Autonomous Power State Transition, Active State Power Management, and L1.2 low-power standby modes, ensuring energy efficiency without compromising performance.

The Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS also excels in reliability, supporting SMART and TRIM commands, as well as integrated Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, and Over-Provision technology. This ensures data integrity and enhances the SSD’s lifespan.

Offering various capacities from 500GB to a staggering 8TB, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS caters to diverse storage needs, making it an ideal choice for users demanding speed and capacity in a single package. If you seek unparalleled performance and versatility, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD is an exceptional choice that delivers on its promise of unmatched speed and reliability.

Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD at B&H.

5. Samsung 980 PRO PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD

Samsung 980 PRO Internal SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB
  • Sequential Reads up to 7000 MB/s
  • Sequential Writes up to 5100 MB/s
  • M.2 2280 Form Factor
  • PCIe 4.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3 Interface
  • Samsung V-NAND Flash Technology
  • Samsung Elpsis Controller
  • AES 256-Bit Encryption
  • TCG/Opal 2.0, MS eDrive Encryption

Pros:

  • Extreme performance
  • Competitive price
  • Good endurance rating

Cons:

  • No 4TB option

The Samsung 980 Pro Internal SSD raises the bar for high-performance storage solutions, offering a compelling blend of speed, efficiency, and reliability. While newer competitors have emerged, the 980 Pro still holds its place as a gold standard in the realm of PCIe Gen4 SSDs, particularly for gaming enthusiasts.

Featuring Samsung’s V-NAND 3-bit MLC flash technology and the Elpsis controller, the 980 Pro PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 SSD commands attention with sequential read speeds reaching a staggering 7000 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 5100 MB/s. This translates to a data transfer rate that’s twice as fast as PCIe 3.0, ensuring optimal performance for even the most demanding tasks.

The introduction of the Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink addresses potential thermal concerns, a testament to its adaptability to meet the requirements of even the Sony PS5 SSD. The efficient M.2 2280 form factor allows easy integration into various systems, from gaming rigs to high-performance computers.

Samsung’s commitment to performance optimization shines through the integrated thermal control algorithm, which efficiently manages heat dispersion to guarantee stability and reliability, even during prolonged usage. The inclusion of AES 256-bit encryption, TCG/Opal 2.0, and MS eDrive encryption further solidify data security.

Samsung’s Magician software empowers users to unlock the full potential of the 980 Pro, providing intuitive tools to monitor drive health, enhance performance, and safeguard valuable data. The SSD’s endurance rating adds to its appeal, making it suitable for rigorous usage scenarios.

While the Samsung 980 Pro maintains its reputation for delivering extreme performance and a competitive price point, the absence of a 4TB option might leave those seeking higher capacities wanting.

In summary, the Samsung 980 Pro Internal SSD stands as a testament to Samsung’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of storage technology. Its exceptional speed, efficient thermal management, and robust feature set make it a compelling choice for gamers and power users alike. If you’re seeking top-tier performance and reliability for your high-performance computing needs, the Samsung 980 Pro proves to be a solid investment that showcases Samsung’s commitment to excellence in SSD technology.

Samsung 980 PRO PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

6. Crucial P5 Plus PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD

Best Value PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD

Crucial P5 Plus Internal SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB
  • Sequential Read Speeds up to 6600 MB/s
  • Sequential Write Speeds up to 5000 MB/s
  • Works with PlayStation 5
  • M.2 2280 Form Factor
  • PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe Interface
  • 2 Million Hour MTTF
  • Up to 1200TB TBW (Total Bytes Written)
  • SMART and TRIM Support
  • TCG OPAL 2.0 Encryption

Pros:

  • Very competitive pricing
  • Hardware-based AES 256-bit encryption
  • Software package

Cons:

  • Not the fastest option available
  • Limited capacity options

The Crucial P5 Plus SSD offers a compelling balance of performance and affordability, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a solid PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD without breaking the bank. While it might not claim the title of the fastest PCIe 4.0 SSD on the market, its optimized performance for specific workloads and dependable operation make it a noteworthy contender.

Sporting the in-house Micron NVMe architecture controller with an eight-channel design and utilizing LPDDR4 DRAM for FTL management acceleration, the Crucial P5 Plus delivers sequential read and write speeds of up to 6,600MB/s and 5,000MB/s respectively. Although it doesn’t outpace some leading drives, its tailored performance and exceptional value are what set it apart.

With a range of capacities including 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB, the Crucial P5 Plus offers options for various storage needs. The drive’s 256-bit AES encryption ensures data security, and its endurance of up to 1,200 TBW for the 2TB model adds longevity to its appeal. Furthermore, the package includes SMART and TRIM support, adaptive thermal protection, and compatibility with PCIe 3.0 for added versatility.

While not the absolute fastest in terms of sustained write performance, the Crucial P5 Plus excels in its value proposition. This SSD stands as a robust alternative for those who desire premium PCIe 4.0 performance without the premium price tag. With its competitive pricing, hardware-based encryption, and attractive design, the Crucial P5 Plus emerges as a top pick for users seeking a dependable and reasonably priced PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD solution.

Crucial P5 Plus PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

Best 2.5-inch SATA SSDs for Acer Nitro 5

1. Samsung 870 EVO SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD

Best overall 2.5-inch SATA SSD

Samsung 870 EVO SATA SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
  • 2.5″ Form Factor
  • SATA III 6 Gb/s Interface
  • Up to 560 MB/s Sequential Read Speed
  • Up to 530 MB/s Sequential Write Speed
  • Samsung MKX Controller
  • MLC V-NAND Technology
  • MTBF Rating: 1.5 Million Hours
  • Endurance up to 2400TB
  • Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • Excellent performance
  • Unlike the QVO, long writes don’t slow down
  • Five capacities available (250GB to 4TB)
  • Five-year warranty

Cons:

  • SATA performance can’t match PCIe

The Samsung 870 EVO SATA SSD stands as a benchmark of excellence in the world of storage solutions. If you’re in search of a reliable and swift 2.5-inch SATA SSD, the 870 EVO is undoubtedly a top choice. Samsung’s long-standing reputation in the SSD industry is well-deserved, and this drive maintains that tradition of quality.

Equipped with read and write speeds that surpass 500MB/s, the 870 EVO proves its mettle for a range of applications. Whether you’re an avid gamer, a creative professional, or an everyday user, this SSD won’t disappoint. Its exceptional performance aligns with its affordability, offering exceptional value for your investment.

What sets the 870 EVO apart is its versatility. With capacities spanning from 250GB to a massive 4TB, you’ll find ample room for your data, whether it’s high-resolution videos, memory-intensive games, or extensive project files. Samsung’s Magician SSD management software further elevates the user experience, ensuring that your drive remains in optimal condition over its five-year warranty period.

This SSD not only shines in performance but also in endurance. The 870 EVO can handle extensive write data, with the 4TB variant capable of managing a staggering 2,400TB of writes. Its power efficiency and minimal idle power consumption make it a stellar option for any setup, without compromising on thermal performance.

However, it’s important to note that while the 870 EVO delivers outstanding performance within the SATA interface, it can’t rival the speeds offered by PCIe drives. This might be a minor trade-off for those seeking larger storage capacities at an affordable price point.

In summary, the Samsung 870 EVO SATA SSD is a force to be reckoned with. Its combination of performance, endurance, capacity options, and warranty coverage make it a standout choice in the saturated SSD market. Whether you’re upgrading an aging system or building a new one, the 870 EVO is an investment that promises to enhance your computing experience for years to come.

Samsung 870 EVO SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

2. Crucial MX500 2.5″ Internal SATA SSD

Budget 2.5-inch SATA SSD / Best Value

Crucial MX500 SATA SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
  • 2.5″/7mm Form Factor
  • SATA III 6 Gb/s Interface
  • Up to 560 MB/s Sequential Read Speed
  • Up to 510 MB/s Sequential Write Speed
  • Silicon Motion SM2258 Controller
  • Micron 3D TLC NAND Flash Technology
  • AES-256 Data Encryption, TCG Opal 2.0
  • Acronis True Image Included
  • Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • Very affordable
  • Read speed up to 561MB/s
  • 256-bit AES encryption
  • Five capacities available (250GB to 4TB)

Cons:

  • SATA not as fast as PCIe

The Crucial MX500 SATA SSD offers a compelling blend of affordability and performance, making it a standout choice for those seeking excellent value in the realm of 2.5-inch SATA drives.

In direct competition with the Samsung 870 EVO, the Crucial MX500 manages to deliver commendable SATA performance while maintaining a more budget-friendly price point. Available in capacities ranging from 250GB to 4TB, this SSD is a versatile solution suitable for various storage needs.

Despite being slightly overshadowed by the Samsung 870 EVO, the Crucial MX500 puts up a strong fight due to its exceptional price-performance ratio. In practical testing, it demonstrates sequential read speeds around 561MB/s and write speeds reaching 504MB/s, ensuring smooth data handling.

Noteworthy features include self-encrypting drive (SED) technology, full disk encryption (FDE), and an AES-256 encryption engine, providing robust data security options. The drive’s slim 7mm case design accommodates most laptops and desktop cabinets seamlessly, offering compatibility without compromise.

Crucial’s inclusion of a five-year warranty and an impressive endurance rating of 700TBW for the 2TB version reflects their confidence in the MX500’s reliability. Leveraging a new 64-layer NAND and improved controller firmware contributes to the drive’s enhanced overall performance.

The Crucial MX500 is a top-tier choice for individuals seeking a dependable SATA SSD solution without breaking the bank. Its strengths lie in offering a balance between cost-effectiveness and solid performance. Although it may not surpass every metric, the MX500’s value proposition, combined with its enduring legacy of quality, garners widespread appreciation within the enthusiast community. The fact that it consistently comes in at a lower price point across all capacities compared to the Samsung 870 EVO further solidifies its status as a preferred choice for those seeking the best bang for their buck.

Crucial MX500 2.5″ Internal SATA SSD at B&H.

3. WD Blue SA510 SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD

Fast SATA SSD for heavy workloads

WD Blue SA510 SATA SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
  • 2.5″ / 7mm Form Factor
  • SATA III 6 Gb/s Interface
  • Up to 560 MB/s Sequential Read Speed
  • Up to 520 MB/s Sequential Write Speed
  • Downloadable WD SSD Dashboard Software
  • Downloadable Acronis True Image Software
  • Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • Top speeds
  • Excellent software support
  • Up to 4 TB capacity
  • 5-year limited warranty

Cons:

  • SATA not as fast as PCIe

The WD Blue SA510 SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD stands as an impressive solution tailored for creative professionals, boasting a generous 4TB storage capacity and reliable performance. With sequential read speeds of 560 MB/s and write speeds of 520 MB/s, this SSD caters to the demanding needs of high-resolution raw images, 4K videos, and critical files.

Designed with power efficiency and minimal vibration in mind, SSDs like the WD Blue SA510 provide ideal storage solutions for laptops. Its straightforward installation into a 2.5″ drive bay with a 7mm height makes it easy to integrate into various systems. The SATA III interface ensures broad compatibility across a range of computer setups, including older models.

Enhancing data management, the drive comes with Acronis True Image software, enabling you to clone your entire hard drive for backup and security purposes, including AI-based protection against ransomware and various attacks. The Western Digital SSD Dashboard software facilitates drive health monitoring, available space assessment, and firmware version management.

The WD Blue SA510’s standout feature is its impressive 4TB capacity, making it one of the highest-capacity SSDs available without exorbitant pricing. This substantial storage, combined with its remarkable read and write speeds, provides an enticing option for those in need of both space and performance.

Part of WD’s Blue family, the SA510 SATA SSD offers top-tier SATA speeds while providing up to 4TB capacity. The drive’s five-year limited warranty and SSD dashboard further underscore its reliability and performance assurance. Additionally, the inclusion of a free three-month trial for Dropbox Professional facilitates easy content sharing and collaboration.

In conclusion, the WD Blue SA510 SATA III SSD is tailor-made for professionals seeking enhanced performance and ample storage. Whether it’s handling resource-intensive tasks or storing critical files, this drive’s blend of speed, capacity, and software support positions it as an excellent choice for creative workflows.

WD Blue SA510 SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

4. Samsung 870 QVO 2.5″ SATA III Internal SSD

The highest capacity SATA SSD

Samsung 870 QVO Key Features:

  • Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB
  • SATA III 6 Gb/s
  • Read Speeds of up to 560 MB/s
  • Write Speeds of up to 530 MB/s
  • 2.5″ 7 mm Form Factor
  • Samsung Magician Software
  • Limited 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • Up to 8TB capacity
  • High speeds

Cons:

  • No options less than 1TB

The Samsung 870 QVO SATA SSD stands as an exceptional choice for enterprise environments seeking high-capacity and high-speed storage solutions. Boasting remarkable speeds, including read speeds of up to 560 MB/s and write speeds of up to 530 MB/s, this drive delivers swift performance alongside Samsung’s signature Magician software for efficient drive health management.

An 8TB variant caters to businesses in need of substantial storage capacity, positioning the QVO as a prime choice for enterprises requiring ample room for their data-intensive operations. Despite being priced above the Crucial MX500, it offers comparable pricing to the Samsung 870 EVO and remains more affordable than the 860 EVO.

Designed for enterprise applications, the Samsung 870 QVO excels in supporting demanding workloads. Its compatibility with both PC and laptop use enhances its versatility, while the 2.5″ form factor and SATA III interface contribute to its impressive sequential read and write speeds.

The drive’s inclusion of Samsung Magician Software empowers users to monitor drive health and access updates seamlessly. Backed by a three-year warranty, the QVO ensures reliability and peace of mind for users.

In conclusion, the Samsung 870 QVO SATA SSD offers the highest capacity in the market alongside outstanding speeds, making it a valuable asset for enterprise environments. With an 8TB option and potent performance capabilities, the QVO is tailored to meet the demands of data-heavy operations. Its blend of speed, capacity, and software support, backed by a reliable warranty, solidifies its status as an excellent choice for enterprises seeking optimal SATA storage solutions.

Samsung 870 QVO 2.5″ SATA III Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

5. Crucial BX500 SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD

Best budget SATA SSD

Crucial BX500 SATA SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 240GB, 480GB, 1TB, 2TB
  • 2.5″ / 7mm Form Factor
  • SATA III 6 Gb/s Interface
  • Up to 540 MB/s Sequential Read Speed
  • Up to 500 MB/s Sequential Write Speed
  • 1.5 Million Hours MTTF
  • Micron 3D NAND Technology
  • Limited 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • Affordable price
  • Great everyday performance

Cons:

  • Not the fastest

The Crucial BX500 SATA SSD emerges as a top-tier choice for budget-conscious users seeking substantial storage without compromising on performance. Recognized for its exceptional price-to-gigabyte ratio, the 2TB capacity option stands out for providing a cost-effective solution to your fast storage needs.

Offering swift sequential read speeds of up to 540 MB/s and sequential write speeds reaching 500 MB/s, the BX500 ensures rapid file transfers and an overall improved system performance. Its impressive affordability, coupled with its capacity, positions it perfectly for mass storage requirements or as a primary drive for your PC.

While the Samsung 870 EVO offers enticing performance and affordability, the Crucial BX500 shines when capacity is your priority, maintaining its cost-effectiveness. The 1TB model, priced at $41.99, presents a remarkable value proposition, substantially undercutting competitors while delivering respectable everyday performance.

Available in capacities ranging from 240GB to 2TB, the BX500 offers versatility to match various storage needs. It slots seamlessly into 2.5″ drive bays with a height of 7mm and features a SATA III 6 Gb/s interface for straightforward integration into a range of systems.

While not aiming for peak performance, the Crucial BX500 remains a dependable and efficient choice for users who prioritize cost-effectiveness and ample storage. With its respectable read and write speeds, this SSD facilitates quick boot-ups, file loading, and system responsiveness. Backed by a limited 3-year manufacturer warranty, the BX500 embodies a balance of affordability and performance, making it a worthy option for individuals seeking to maximize storage capacity on a budget.

Crucial BX500 SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

Read more: