Best SSD for GeForce RTX 3060 & RTX 3060 Ti

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The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 & RTX 3060 Ti have emerged as the latest offerings from the company, promising stunning visuals, remarkable performance, and exceptional value for both gamers and professionals. As the allure of these cards continues to grow, enthusiasts are eager to integrate them into their gaming setups. However, capitalizing on the potential of these powerhouse GPUs demands a crucial companion: the right storage drive. This realization has led us to compile a definitive list of the best SSDs for the GeForce RTX 3060 & RTX 3060 Ti.

In this article, we delve into the SSD realm, navigating towards the best SSDs for the GeForce RTX 3060 & RTX 3060 Ti. Our adept team of experts has painstakingly reviewed and rigorously tested the latest SSDs available, scrutinizing aspects like speed, capacity, durability, and compatibility. Whether you’re a committed gamer craving responsive gameplay or a content creator managing substantial files, our selection of top-tier SSDs stands poised to impeccably complement your high-performance graphics card, propelling your endeavors to new heights.

Our Top Pick: The best SSDs for GeForce RTX 3060 & RTX 3060 Ti

  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. Crucial T700: The Fastest SSD / Best PCIe 5.0 SSD
  5. Crucial P5 Plus: Best Value PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD
  6. Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS: Best High-Capacity PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD
  7. Samsung 980 PRO: Still an excellent PCIe 4.0 SSD

See also: Best PCIe 5.0 SSDs

Best SSDs for GeForce RTX 3060 & RTX 3060 Ti

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 powerhouse in the realm of storage solutions, redefining performance benchmarks and offering a versatile range of features. As the successor to the well-regarded 980 Pro, Samsung has taken a leap forward with this model, propelling it to the top of the M.2 SSD hierarchy.

Bolstered by cutting-edge hardware enhancements, including the new Pascal controller and V7 TLC NAND flash, the 990 PRO stands out as one of the fastest SSDs available. Its sequential read speeds of up to 7450 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 6900 MB/s obliterate previous records and set a new industry standard. This speed translates into exceptional performance for a wide array of applications, from gaming to content creation.

The 990 PRO is not just about sheer speed; it’s also backed by innovation. With optional features such as a high-power mode and an RGB-equipped heatsink, users have the flexibility to customize their experience for optimal efficiency and aesthetics. Samsung’s dedication to quality shines through with the inclusion of features like AES 256-bit encryption, ensuring data security alongside lightning-fast speeds.

Samsung’s Magician software adds another layer of value, offering comprehensive optimization tools that empower users to monitor drive health, enhance performance, and safeguard valuable data. Coupled with a robust warranty and reliable support, this drive promises a worry-free ownership experience.

While the 990 PRO excels in many aspects, it’s important to note that its larger 4TB variant is expected in the near future. Despite its prowess, the drive’s availability is currently limited to 1TB and 2TB models, catering primarily to users with more modest storage needs.

In conclusion, the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 M.2 Internal SSD emerges as an unparalleled choice for users demanding peak performance from their systems. Its blend of exceptional speed, durability, and customization options positions it as a dominant force in the SSD landscape. Although the price point might be a consideration, the 990 PRO’s impressive capabilities make it a compelling investment for enthusiasts, gamers, and professionals alike.

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, an enhanced version of the SN850, offers a remarkable leap in performance and capabilities. Catering to gaming enthusiasts and PC aficionados, it shines with incredible speed, ample capacities, and durability.

Western Digital’s SN850X emerges as an evolution of the already impressive SN850. With upgraded read speeds reaching 7,300MB/s and write speeds at 6,300MB/s, it significantly outpaces its predecessor. Storage sizes have expanded too, up to 4TB, a substantial increase from the previous 2TB limit. Its robust build ensures long-term resilience, maintaining a high TBW rating.

The introduction of Game Mode 2.0 on Windows PCs is particularly beneficial for gamers concurrently recording gameplay. In terms of pricing, the SN850X offers enhanced affordability, especially in comparison to the original SN850.

Positioned as an alternative to the FireCuda 530, the SN850X distinguishes itself with its balanced performance and a competitive price point. Real-world transfers and random write performance are especially commendable, granting it a spot among the upper echelon of SSDs. The inclusion of an RGB-equipped heatsink option for 1TB and 2TB drives adds flair and ensures consistent peak performance during intense gaming sessions.

Although the Game Mode 2.0 feature felt somewhat unfinished in testing, Western Digital’s commitment to future firmware updates to refine it is reassuring. The SN850X’s impressive attributes, encompassing speed, real-world performance, and advanced features, make it an outstanding choice for gamers and power users alike. With a slightly more budget-friendly edge compared to its rivals, it secures its position as a strong contender in the PCIe 4.0 SSD landscape.

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 sets a blazing benchmark for speed and performance, making it a formidable choice for gamers and content creators alike. Harnessing the power of a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface, this SSD achieves remarkable read and write speeds of up to 7300 MB/s and 6900 MB/s, redefining the concept of speed in the storage realm.

With its 4TB storage capacity, the FireCuda 530 boasts ample space for graphics-intensive games and hefty files, providing a seamless experience without compromise. Backed by a Seagate-validated E18 controller and 3D TLC NAND memory, the SSD offers an unparalleled level of durability, allowing you to push your machine to its limits without hesitation.

The drive’s ability to handle heavy workloads shines through its impressive total bytes written (TBW) rating of 2550TB, equating to the ability to write and delete a substantial portion of the drive capacity daily for an impressive five years.

An additional layer of assurance comes in the form of the included 3-year Rescue Data Recovery Services, providing a 95% success rate against unforeseen data loss.

In conclusion, the Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD emerges as a powerhouse in both speed and endurance, perfect for gamers, creators, and power users seeking uncompromising performance and reliability for their endeavors.

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

4. Crucial T700 PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD

The Fastest SSD / Best PCIe 5.0 SSD

Crucial T700 Internal SSD Key Features:

  • Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
  • Up to 12,400 MB/s Sequential Read Speed
  • Up to 11,800 MB/s Sequential Write Speed
  • M.2 2280 Form Factor
  • PCIe Gen 5.0 x4 Interface
  • Up to 1200TB Endurance (TBW)
  • 1.5 Million Hours MTTF
  • Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Pros:

  • The fastest to date
  • Heatsink options
  • Excellent software and support
  • Up to 4TB in capacity

Cons:

  • Extremely pricey
  • Requires the still rare PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot

The Crucial T700 Internal SSD sets an unparalleled standard for performance, making it the definitive choice for those seeking the pinnacle of storage speed. Boasting remarkable speeds of up to 12,400 MB/s for sequential reads and 11,800 MB/s for sequential writes, this SSD eclipses its competition with ease. Its Gen 5.0 PCIe x4 interface delivers unprecedented throughput, rendering it almost twice as fast as its Gen 4.0 predecessor, exemplifying the leading-edge innovation that Crucial brings to the market.

This SSD excels not only in speed but also in versatility. Whether you’re a passionate gamer, a creative professional, or a power user dealing with intensive workloads, the Crucial T700 delivers. Thanks to Microsoft DirectStorage and GPU decompression, you can embrace gaming like never before, with up to 60% faster high-resolution texture rendering and drastically reduced CPU utilization.

Under the hood, the Crucial T700 leverages Micron’s pioneering 232-layer TLC NAND, a testament to its parent company’s industry-defining expertise. The 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities ensure you have ample space for your games, media, and applications. With a robust 1,200TB endurance rating, this SSD is engineered to withstand the most demanding tasks without faltering.

The Crucial T700 doesn’t merely shine in performance—it also embodies a commitment to quality. With an impressive 1.5 million hours Mean Time To Failure (MTTF) and a limited 5-year manufacturer warranty, you can trust that this SSD is built to last.

One notable feature is the option to choose between versions with and without a heatsink, demonstrating Crucial’s consideration for various system configurations. This drive’s versatility extends to compatibility, as it can be paired with either motherboard-integrated M.2 heatsinks or third-party cooling solutions.

In conclusion, the Crucial T700 Internal SSD stands as the uncontested leader of the SSD landscape, harnessing unmatched speed, innovation, and reliability. While its premium performance comes at a cost, the T700’s prowess justifies the investment. If you’re in pursuit of the ultimate SSD experience, the Crucial T700 unquestionably earns its title as the Best PCIe 5.0 SSD, raising the bar for what’s possible in storage technology.

Crucial T700 PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD at B&H, Adorama.

5. 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 Internal SSD stands as an exemplar of speed and efficiency in the SSD landscape. Renowned for its rapid performance, this NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 SSD ushers in a new era of high-capacity storage solutions.

Boasting Toshiba’s BiCS4 96L TLC NAND Flash memory and PCIe 4.0 bandwidth, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS achieves remarkable feats with a staggering maximum read speed of 7100 MB/s and a write speed of 6600 MB/s, delivering unparalleled data transfer rates. Even on PCIe 3.0 motherboards, it maintains impressive read speeds of up to 3400 MB/s and write speeds of 3000 MB/s, ensuring versatility across systems.

Crafted to harmonize with Open NAND Flash Interfaces including ONFi 2.3, ONFi 3.0, ONFi 3.2, and ONFi 4.0, this SSD seamlessly integrates into diverse setups. Its built-in power management fuels efficiency through Autonomous Power State Transition, Active State Power Management, and L1.2 low-power standby modes.

Enriched with SMART and TRIM command support, coupled with Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, and Over-Provision technology, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS not only elevates performance but also enhances data integrity and lifespan.

Available in a range of capacities from 500GB to an expansive 8TB, this SSD flexibly caters to various storage needs. The Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS Internal SSD emerges as an embodiment of speed, power efficiency, and advanced technology, redefining the boundaries of what a storage solution can achieve.

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

6. 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 stands as a testament to Samsung’s commitment to delivering top-tier performance in the realm of solid-state drives. Offering blazing-fast speeds and an array of features, the 980 PRO is a formidable contender in the world of PCIe Gen4 SSDs, making it a desirable choice for those seeking cutting-edge storage solutions.

The 980 PRO harnesses the power of Samsung’s V-NAND 3-bit MLC flash technology and the Elpsis controller to achieve exceptional sequential read speeds of up to 7000 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 5100 MB/s. This performance prowess, coupled with its PCIe 4.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3 interface, ushers in a new era of data transfer rates and responsiveness.

Designed with demanding gamers and tech-savvy users in mind, the 980 PRO delivers unparalleled bandwidth and throughput, making it an ideal companion for intensive applications such as gaming, graphics, and data analytics. Its efficient M.2 2280 form factor ensures easy integration into various computing systems, enhancing overall performance and productivity.

Samsung’s smart thermal solution is a standout feature, maintaining optimal temperature levels through a nickel-coated controller and heat spreader label. This ensures consistent performance even during prolonged usage, minimizing fluctuations that can affect responsiveness.

The availability of Samsung’s Magician software further enhances the 980 PRO’s appeal. With advanced optimization tools, users can monitor drive health, fine-tune performance, safeguard data, and receive important updates, ensuring the SSD operates at peak efficiency.

While the 980 PRO has been outpaced slightly by newer drives, its introduction of a variant with a factory-fitted heatsink tailored for the Sony PS5 SSD showcases Samsung’s adaptability and commitment to meeting evolving needs.

In conclusion, the Samsung 980 PRO Internal SSD excels in delivering unparalleled performance, ensuring data transfer speeds that push the boundaries of PCIe Gen4 technology. With its robust features, impressive endurance, and competitive pricing, the 980 PRO remains a solid choice for users seeking uncompromising speed and reliability. Although the lack of a 4TB option may be a drawback for some, the 980 PRO’s overall performance, innovative design, and Samsung’s reputation for quality solidify its position as a top-tier SSD in the market.

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

7. 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 Internal SSD offers an exceptional balance of performance and affordability, making it an enticing option for users seeking efficient storage solutions. While it might not top the charts in terms of sheer speed, its competitive pricing and thoughtful feature set make it a standout choice.

This SSD showcases a considered optimization for specific workloads, ensuring consistent and reliable performance. Leveraging the Micron NVMe architecture controller with an eight-channel design and LPDDR4 DRAM for FTL management acceleration, the P5 Plus exhibits sequential read speeds of up to 6,600MB/s and write speeds of up to 4,000MB/s. Its performance positions it between the high-performing PCIe 3.0 SSDs and newer PCIe 4.0 modules, catering to those who prioritize efficiency over raw speed.

Notably, the P5 Plus excels in its affordability, making it a prime selection for budget-conscious consumers. It boasts impressive features such as AES 256-bit full-disk encryption, TRIM, S.M.A.R.T. data reporting, and Windows BitLocker compatibility, ensuring robust data security.

The Crucial P5 Plus comes with a five-year warranty and offers varying endurance options, peaking at 1,200 TBW for the 2TB variant. Although its sustained write performance and efficiency under load could be improved, the P5 Plus remains a solid choice for gamers, creatives, and professionals seeking efficient, cost-effective, and secure storage solutions.

In conclusion, the Crucial P5 Plus SSD aptly caters to users who value both performance and value in their storage solutions. With its competitive pricing, impressive feature set, and optimization for specific workloads, it solidifies its position as an appealing option in the realm of PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSDs.

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

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