Best SSD for GeForce RTX 3070 & RTX 3070 Ti

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NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 3070 and RTX 3070 Ti are both excellent graphics cards for gamers and creators alike, thanks to their exceptional performance and cutting-edge ray tracing and AI-enhanced capabilities. While the RTX 3070 impresses with its formidable output, the RTX 3070 Ti takes it up a notch, delivering a boost in power that avid enthusiasts appreciate. Both options offer remarkable value for their performance.

However, to harness their capabilities to the fullest, pairing them with a robust SSD is not just a choice – it’s an imperative. Seamlessly loading games, accessing data swiftly, and managing resource-intensive applications hinge on the right SSD choice.

In this article, we delve into the universe of SSDs, uncovering the best SSDs for GeForce RTX 3070 & RTX 3070 Ti. Our team of experts has meticulously examined and tested the latest offerings, evaluating criteria such as speed, capacity, durability, and compatibility. Whether you’re an ardent gamer in pursuit of the most responsive gameplay or a creative professional grappling with massive files, we have meticulously curated the best SSDs that harmonize flawlessly with your high-performance graphics card.

Our Top Pick: The best SSDs for GeForce RTX 3070 & RTX 3070 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 3070 & RTX 3070 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 sets a new benchmark for high-performance storage solutions. This successor to the acclaimed 980 Pro demonstrates Samsung’s commitment to pushing the envelope of what an SSD can achieve. Boasting remarkable sequential read speeds of up to 7450 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 6900 MB/s, the 990 PRO is undoubtedly one of the fastest drives available.

Powered by Samsung’s cutting-edge Pascal controller and V7 TLC NAND flash, this SSD not only delivers outstanding speed but also brings about enhanced efficiency. The integration of a high-power mode and optional heatsink with RGB further highlights Samsung’s focus on providing customization options to enthusiasts.

The 990 PRO exhibits unwavering performance across various tasks, making it a perfect match for gaming, professional applications, and content creation. Its compact M.2 2280 form factor ensures versatility, fitting seamlessly into desktops, laptops, and even the PlayStation 5 console. Additionally, Samsung’s Dynamic Thermal Guard Technology and nickel-coated controller keep temperatures in check during demanding tasks, maintaining optimal performance without thermal throttling.

The software suite accompanying the 990 PRO, including the updated Magician application, empowers users to unlock its full potential. Advanced optimization tools, data protection features, and real-time drive health monitoring are all at your fingertips. Backed by a sturdy warranty and Samsung’s reputation for quality support, the 990 PRO offers peace of mind for your investment.

While the 990 PRO is an unequivocal marvel, its main drawbacks lie in its limited capacity options. As of now, only 1TB and 2TB variants are available, and the pricing reflects its premium performance. However, with its impending 4TB model release, the Samsung 990 PRO addresses the demand for larger capacities.

In conclusion, the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 M.2 Internal SSD is a tour de force in the SSD landscape. Its exceptional speed, efficiency, and features make it a prime choice for discerning users seeking peak performance. While its price point and available capacities may present some considerations, the 990 PRO unquestionably redefines what’s possible in the realm of high-performance storage.

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 offers an impressive upgrade over its predecessor, the SN850, catering to PC enthusiasts and gamers seeking optimal performance. This high-end SSD presents read speeds of up to 7,300MB/s and write speeds of up to 6,600MB/s, effectively delivering an exceptional computing experience. Available in capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, this SSD provides ample space for games, applications, and multimedia.

The inclusion of Game Mode 2.0 enhances Windows-based systems’ performance, predicting game asset loading, managing overhead, and adapting thermal controls. Notably, the optional heatsink bundle further ensures consistent performance during extended play sessions. The SSD’s durability is ensured with a remarkable 1.75 million-hour MTTF and endurance of 1,200TB, complemented by a 5-year manufacturer warranty.

The WD Black SN850X demonstrates its prowess across synthetic benchmarks, attaining peak speeds close to PCIe Gen 4’s limits. In terms of real-world application, it impressively minimizes latency and sustains a high level of performance. The addition of RGB lighting and the heatsink option provides a touch of style to gaming setups.

While slightly more affordable than some competitors, the SN850X is still relatively pricey per gigabyte. Nonetheless, its top-tier performance, broad capacity options, software support, and decent warranty make it an excellent choice for gamers and enthusiasts seeking peak PCIe Gen 4 speeds.

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 stands as a pinnacle of speed and performance in the SSD market. Tailored for gamers and content creators, this SSD harnesses the prowess of a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface to unleash staggering read and write speeds, clocking in at an impressive 7300 MB/s and 6900 MB/s respectively. These blistering transfer rates redefine the boundaries of performance, elevating the FireCuda 530 to a league of its own.

Beyond speed, the FireCuda 530 is a testament to durability and reliability. Its Seagate-validated E18 controller and 3D TLC NAND memory ensure the drive’s optimum durability, enabling it to withstand the demands of heavy usage and push your machine’s limits without hesitation. With a remarkable total bytes written (TBW) rating of 2550TB, equivalent to writing and deleting 70% of the drive’s capacity every day for five years, the FireCuda 530 is built for the long haul.

The drive’s expansive 4TB storage capacity offers ample room to house graphics-intensive games and sizable files effortlessly, rendering storage concerns a thing of the past. Additionally, the inclusion of a 3-year Rescue Data Recovery Services plan, boasting a 95% success rate, provides added assurance against unforeseen data loss.

In sum, the Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD is a force to be reckoned with, embodying unparalleled speed, resilience, and convenience. Whether you’re engaged in intense gaming sessions or demanding content creation tasks, the FireCuda 530 is primed to exceed your expectations.

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 stands as an epitome of cutting-edge technology, dominating the PCIe 5.0 SSD landscape with unparalleled speed and performance. It doesn’t just excel; it redefines the standards of SSD excellence. Boasting mind-boggling sequential read speeds of up to 12,400 MB/s and write speeds of up to 11,800 MB/s, the T700 propels your computing experience into hyperdrive. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast, a video editing maestro, or a creative professional, this SSD is your ticket to lightning-fast load times, seamless multitasking, and accelerated rendering.

Crafted with innovation in its DNA, the T700 houses Micron’s revolutionary 232-layer TLC NAND3 technology, which operates at an astonishing maximum speed of 2.4GB/s. Backed by its parent company Micron, Crucial gains an edge in optimizing this SSD to its peak potential.

The T700 arrives in multiple capacities – 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB – ensuring ample room for your digital realm. Its optional heatsinks ensure optimum thermal management, a vital element given the scorching performance this SSD is capable of. Furthermore, its compatibility with Microsoft’s DirectStorage elevates your gaming escapades, rendering high-resolution textures up to 60% faster while efficiently offloading the CPU.

Crucial’s dominance continues with the T700’s staggering 1.5 million random read/write IOPS, a feat untouched by its competitors. This SSD is a workhorse, adeptly tackling heavy workloads and showcasing exceptional endurance with its 600TB of write endurance per TB of capacity.

The Crucial T700 isn’t just a storage device; it’s a performance revolution, and its remarkable speeds are only amplified by its innovative design. Whether it’s for gaming or professional tasks, the T700 doesn’t just keep up; it surges ahead, leaving competitors in its wake. Factor in the exceptional build quality, the influence of Micron’s expertise, and Crucial’s reputation for reliability, and the T700 becomes the undeniable ruler of the SSD realm. Though investing in this masterpiece might require a premium, the premium performance it offers in return makes it a worthy investment.

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 NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD sets a new standard for storage performance, firmly establishing itself as one of the fastest SSDs on the market. This dynamic solid-state drive is a game-changer for those seeking both speed and high-capacity storage solutions.

Engineered to deliver exceptional results, the Rocket 4 PLUS harnesses Toshiba’s BiCS4 96L TLC NAND Flash memory and PCIe 4.0 bandwidth, culminating in astounding read speeds of up to 7100 MB/s and write speeds of 6600 MB/s when paired with a compatible motherboard. Notably, it remains versatile with backward compatibility, offering up to 3400 MB/s read and 3000 MB/s write speeds on PCIe 3.0 motherboards.

Beyond raw performance, this SSD exhibits remarkable adaptability. Its compatibility with a range of Open NAND Flash Interfaces, including ONFi 2.3, ONFi 3.0, ONFi 3.2, and ONFi 4.0, attests to its versatility. Moreover, its built-in power management, featuring Autonomous Power State Transition, Active State Power Management, and L1.2 low-power standby modes, optimizes energy consumption without compromising efficiency.

The Rocket 4 PLUS stands as a testament to reliability, boasting integrated features such as Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code, and Over-Provision technology. Furthermore, support for SMART and TRIM commands enhances data integrity and system longevity.

With capacities ranging from 500GB to an impressive 8TB, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS caters to various needs, from intensive workloads to expansive file storage. In essence, this SSD exemplifies both innovation and top-tier performance, making the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS a compelling choice for those seeking an unparalleled SSD experience.

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 is still an excellent and popular PCIe Gen4 SSDs, delivering blazing fast performance that places it among the top-tier options available. While newer releases have inched ahead in speed, the 980 PRO remains a formidable contender, especially with the introduction of the Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink variant, addressing a key improvement area.

Engineered with Samsung’s renowned V-NAND 3-bit MLC flash technology and the Elpsis controller, the 980 PRO offers a PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 interface and an NVMe 1.3 compatibility. Sequential read speeds soaring up to 7000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 5100 MB/s provide a significant leap forward in data transfer rates, enhancing computing experiences across the board. Data security is fortified with options for TCG/Opal 2.0 and MS eDrive encryption, ensuring your valuable information remains protected.

The SSD’s performance is nothing short of exceptional, capitalizing on the PCIe Gen4 capabilities to deliver double the data transfer rates of its predecessor, even while being backwards compatible with PCIe 3.0 systems. The Elpsis controller synergizes seamlessly with the flash memory, contributing to its remarkable speeds.

Gaming enthusiasts and power users will find the 980 PRO to be an exceptional choice, offering swift game loading and seamless application performance. Its compact M.2 2280 form factor and optimized power efficiency make it an ideal fit for high-performance computing setups. One standout feature is the reliable thermal management. With a nickel-coated controller and thermal control algorithm, the 980 PRO maintains consistent performance even under heavy workloads, minimizing performance fluctuations due to heat.

The Samsung Magician software further elevates the SSD’s capabilities, allowing users to fine-tune and optimize performance, monitor drive health, and receive important updates. It’s a comprehensive toolset that complements the SSD’s advanced technology.

In summary, the Samsung 980 PRO Internal SSD is a powerhouse of performance and innovation. With its exceptional speeds, durable build, and advanced features, it stands as a testament to Samsung’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of SSD technology. While it may no longer be the absolute fastest, its competitive price, good endurance rating, and impressive overall performance make it a solid choice for anyone seeking a high-performance storage solution. The absence of a 4TB option is a minor drawback, but for those looking to experience next-level SSD performance, the 980 PRO is undoubtedly a top contender.

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 SSD stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of performance and affordability. While it may not claim the crown for the fastest PCIe 4.0 SSD on the market, its price-to-performance ratio is hard to beat. Geared towards specific workloads, the P5 Plus offers consistent and reliable performance, catering to budget-conscious users without compromising quality.

Powered by the Micron NVMe architecture controller and featuring LPDDR4 DRAM, this drive optimizes FTL management. Its sequential read and write speeds of up to 6,600MB/s and 4,000MB/s, while not the absolute fastest, ensure efficient data access. With variants offering 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB capacities, users have ample options to choose from.

Impressively, the P5 Plus includes security features such as AES 256-bit full-disk encryption, TRIM, and S.M.A.R.T. data reporting, enhancing data protection. The drive’s compatibility with Windows BitLocker adds another layer of security. The five-year warranty and endurance ratings of up to 1,200 TBW (for the 2TB model) provide peace of mind.

The P5 Plus’s positioning between top-performing PCIe 3.0 SSDs and newer PCIe 4.0 models, coupled with its strong focus on value, makes it an enticing proposition. While it might not outshine the swiftest drives, its specialized optimization makes it an attractive option for various computing needs.

For gamers, professionals, and creatives seeking enhanced performance without breaking the bank, the Crucial P5 Plus stands as a testament to affordable Gen4 SSD excellence. With a blend of speed, reliability, and security features, it’s a valuable asset for modern computing needs.

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

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