Best SSD for GeForce RTX 3080 & RTX 3080 Ti

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In the realm of gaming and graphics supremacy, NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 3080 and RTX 3080 Ti reign supreme, delivering unparalleled performance for enthusiasts and professionals alike. With the RTX 3080 excelling in 1440p gaming and the RTX 3080 Ti unleashing 4K prowess, both cards redefine the boundaries of visual excellence through ray tracing, AI enhancements, and DLSS technology.

But while the spotlight often shines on these GPUs, the backstage star that ensures their peak potential often goes unnoticed: a reliable storage solution. Solid-State Drives (SSDs) emerge as the unsung heroes, ensuring fast loading times, nimble data access, and seamless multitasking.

In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a journey through the SSD landscape, navigating the intricacies to unveil the best SSDs for the GeForce RTX 3080 & RTX 3080 Ti. Our panel of experts has meticulously assessed the newest SSD entrants, weighing speed, capacity, endurance, and compatibility. Whether you’re an ardent gamer chasing responsive gameplay or a content virtuoso maneuvering through colossal files, our selection of top-tier SSDs harmonize flawlessly with these graphics titans, delivering a holistic high-performance experience.

Our Top Pick: The best SSDs for GeForce RTX 3080 & RTX 3080 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 3080 & RTX 3080 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 stands tall as the pinnacle of high-performance storage solutions, reaffirming Samsung’s dominance in the SSD arena. This formidable drive elevates speed and efficiency to new heights, outpacing its predecessors and rivaling competitors. Armed with Samsung’s cutting-edge V7 TLC NAND flash and a revolutionary Pascal controller, the 990 PRO redefines the boundaries of PCIe 4.0 technology.

Impressively versatile, this SSD offers optional high-power mode and an eye-catching heatsink with RGB lighting – a fusion of aesthetics and performance. Samsung’s commitment to excellence is evident in this drive’s power efficiency, unwavering consistency, and temperature management. It takes the crown for 4K random read performance, demonstrating its prowess across a range of tasks.

A stellar software package, headlined by the updated Magician application, complements this drive’s capabilities. The toolbox is unrivaled, ensuring peak performance, data protection, and optimal usage. With a robust warranty and reliable support, Samsung reinforces its commitment to customer satisfaction.

The 990 PRO isn’t just about speed; it’s about pushing the boundaries of innovation. Offering sequential read speeds up to 7450 MB/s and write speeds up to 6900 MB/s, this drive’s capabilities are awe-inspiring. Its random read and write speeds of up to 1.4M and 1.55M IOPS, respectively, redefine responsiveness. The TCG/Opal 2.0 security feature ensures data protection, fitting snugly into a range of devices, from PCs to laptops to the PlayStation 5 console.

Samsung’s decision to offer the 990 PRO in 1TB, 2TB, and the forthcoming 4TB variant demonstrates their understanding of user needs. Although the 990 PRO commands a premium, it’s a small price to pay for a drive that raises the bar for PCIe 4.0 storage. If peak performance and reliability are non-negotiable, the Samsung 990 PRO stands as an unrivaled choice in the market. Its speed, efficiency, and compatibility make it a heavyweight contender in the SSD landscape. While alternative options exist, the 990 PRO’s dominance cannot be ignored – it’s the gold standard for users who demand the best.

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 an upgraded iteration of its predecessor, the SN850, aimed at avid PC enthusiasts and gamers. Sporting impressive speed improvements, larger capacities, and lasting durability, the SN850X is a powerhouse choice.

Initially, the WD Black SN850 garnered acclaim as a premier M.2 SSD. Yet, WD’s release of the SN850X aims squarely at the enthusiast crowd seeking peak performance. This newer model elevates read speeds from 7,000MB/s to 7,300MB/s and write speeds from 5,300MB/s to 6,300MB/s. Furthermore, the capacity has expanded to 4TB, a leap from the former 2TB limit, all while maintaining durability.

The introduction of Game Mode 2.0 for Windows PCs enhances drive performance, especially during simultaneous gaming and video recording. Additionally, an optional heatsink bundle safeguards consistent performance during lengthy gameplay sessions.

Notably, the SN850X touts value, delivering competitive performance at a lower price than comparable options. The enhanced controller and updated flash drive maximize PCIe 4.0 capabilities, rivaling other top-tier contenders.

The SN850X’s excellence shines in real-world transfers and random write tasks. This drive’s strong performance is accentuated by a comprehensive Dashboard application and a substantial five-year warranty. While initially steep, the SN850X’s price has since moderated. Its potential is slightly constrained by the evolving Game Mode 2.0 feature and pricing per gigabyte.

In a market brimming with contenders, the WD Black SN850X’s blend of speed, reliability, and affordability earns it a prominent place. It’s a powerful gaming SSD, offering extreme performance and exceptional value, backed by a five-year warranty. The SN850X’s compelling features and capabilities solidify its status as a top PCIe 4.0 SSD option for discerning gamers and PC enthusiasts.

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 is a true speed demon, poised to revolutionize your computing experience. Designed with gamers and content creators in mind, this powerhouse delivers unparalleled performance with its PCIe 4.0 x4 interface, achieving breathtaking read and write speeds of up to 7300 MB/s and 6900 MB/s respectively.

But it’s not just about speed – it’s about endurance and reliability. The FireCuda 530 is built to withstand the toughest challenges, boasting a remarkable 2550TB total bytes written (TBW) rating. This means you can confidently tackle intensive tasks, knowing that this SSD can handle the load.

Whether you’re an avid gamer or a creative professional, the FireCuda 530 is your ultimate companion. With transfer speeds up to two times faster than PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSDs and a staggering twelve times faster than SATA SSDs, your gaming and content creation endeavors will reach new heights.

The Seagate-validated E18 controller and 3D TLC NAND memory ensure optimal durability, pushing your machine to its limits without compromising performance. Plus, the included 3-year Rescue Data Recovery Services provide peace of mind, offering a 95% success rate in case of unexpected data loss.

In conclusion, the Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD is more than just a storage solution – it’s a game-changer. With its lightning-fast speeds, exceptional endurance, and added data recovery safety net, it’s a must-have for anyone seeking top-tier performance for gaming and content creation.

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 out as a pinnacle of performance and innovation in the world of solid-state drives. With its revolutionary PCIe 5.0 interface, the T700 unleashes unprecedented speeds, making it the undisputed champion of SSDs for both gaming enthusiasts and professionals alike.

At the heart of the T700 is Micron’s cutting-edge 232-layer TLC NAND, a testament to Crucial’s commitment to harnessing the latest technological advancements. This collaboration between Crucial and Micron brings forth an SSD that redefines speed and efficiency, boasting mind-bending sequential read speeds of up to 12,400 MB/s and write speeds of up to 11,800 MB/s. These numbers aren’t just impressive; they’re transformative. The T700 is nearly 2x faster than its PCIe 4.0 predecessor, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to progress.

The impact of this speed is felt across various applications. Gamers will revel in the T700’s ability to render high-resolution textures up to 60% faster, slashing loading times and enhancing overall gaming experiences. Content creators, video editors, and 3D rendering professionals will find their workflows streamlined, thanks to the T700’s remarkable capabilities. Microsoft DirectStorage and GPU decompression further elevate performance, allowing for up to 99% less CPU utilization and enabling seamless multitasking.

The T700’s prowess extends beyond its speed. It boasts an impressive 1.5 million hours of Mean Time To Failure (MTTF) and up to 1200TB of endurance (TBW), ensuring long-term reliability and durability. The inclusion of DirectStorage support, combined with the Microsoft-backed efficiency enhancements, cements the T700 as a future-proof choice.

Crucial’s T700 isn’t just a step forward; it’s a giant leap in SSD technology. The drive is available in capacities of 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, offering ample storage for a variety of needs. Whether you’re a gamer seeking instant world loading, a content creator in pursuit of seamless editing, or a professional demanding unmatched performance, the Crucial T700 Internal SSD emerges as the ultimate choice. Backed by a limited 5-year manufacturer warranty, the T700 exemplifies Crucial’s commitment to quality and innovation, setting a new standard for PCIe 5.0 SSDs. If you’re ready to embrace the bleeding edge of technology, the Crucial T700 is your gateway to extreme performance and unrivaled speed.

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

5. 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 impressive blend of performance, value, and features, making it a worthy contender in the PCIe 4.0 SSD market. While it may not claim the top spot for sheer speed, its competitive pricing and optimization for specific workloads make it an attractive option for budget-conscious users seeking solid performance.

Built on the Micron NVMe architecture with an eight-channel design and LPDDR4 DRAM acceleration, the P5 Plus strikes a balance between efficiency and power. It boasts sequential read speeds of up to 6,600MB/s and write speeds of up to 4,000MB/s, making it a suitable choice for various computing tasks. Although not the absolute fastest, the drive’s reliability and workload optimization shine through.

The inclusion of a five-year warranty, AES 256-bit full-disk encryption, TRIM, and S.M.A.R.T. data reporting underscore its commitment to data security and long-term usability. With a focus on specific use cases like gaming and creative work, the P5 Plus confidently keeps pace with competitors, even if it doesn’t claim the absolute speed crown.

Its compatibility with both PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0 systems adds flexibility, ensuring a broad user base can enjoy its benefits. If you’re seeking a PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD that delivers commendable performance without breaking the bank, the Crucial P5 Plus deserves serious consideration. It might not be the fastest, but its amalgamation of affordability, reliability, and functionality positions it as a valuable asset for diverse computing needs.

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

6. 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 tall as a powerhouse among storage solutions, solidifying its position as one of the fastest SSDs available today. Elevate your computing experience with this marvel of technology, as it ushers in an era of rapid data access and high-capacity storage.

With its NVMe PCIe M.2 interface and 2280 (80mm) form factor, the Rocket 4 PLUS harnesses the might of Toshiba’s BiCS4 96L TLC NAND Flash memory and PCIe 4.0 bandwidth. Boasting a staggering read speed of up to 7100 MB/s and a write speed of 6600 MB/s, this SSD redefines the boundaries of data transfer rates, ensuring that even the most demanding tasks are executed with finesse.

Equipped with a wealth of features, including backward compatibility with PCIe 3.0 motherboards and support for Open NAND Flash Interfaces such as ONFi 2.3, 3.0, 3.2, and 4.0, this SSD caters to diverse needs while seamlessly transitioning between power states. Its commitment to data integrity is underscored by its support for SMART and TRIM commands, as well as integrated Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code, and Over-Provision technology.

Available in capacities ranging from 500GB to a whopping 8TB, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS Internal SSD adapts to your requirements, whether you’re a content creator or a data-driven professional. It’s more than just storage; it’s a testament to speed, reliability, and cutting-edge engineering. The Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS is a technological marvel, revolutionizing the storage landscape and delivering performance that exceeds expectations.

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

7. 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 PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD stands as a testament to cutting-edge SSD technology, garnering acclaim for its exceptional performance and build quality. In particular, the 2TB variant of this SSD has elevated itself to become a hallmark of excellence in the storage realm. Bolstered by remarkable PCIe Gen4 capabilities, sustained write speeds, and fortified by hardware-based AES 256-bit encryption, the 980 PRO encapsulates power and security in one sleek package.

Undoubtedly, the SSD’s aesthetic allure is matched by its functional attributes. Complemented by an inclusive software suite and a generous 5-year warranty, the 980 PRO redefines high-performance storage. While its endurance ratings are commendable, it does concede an advantage to its peers in this regard. Furthermore, the premium attached to its name might give pause to some budget-conscious consumers.

The advent of the Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink introduces a substantial enhancement, addressing one of its notable shortcomings. The factory-fitted heatsink, tailored for the Sony PS5 SSD, not only bolsters performance but also enhances versatility.

Crafted on the bedrock of V-NAND 3-bit MLC flash technology and the Elpsis controller, the 980 PRO dazzles with sequential read speeds reaching 7000 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 5100 MB/s. The SSD’s M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe 4.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3 interface contribute to an impeccable experience.

Although not the newest contender, the 980 PRO is undeniably a frontrunner in the PCIe Gen 4 arena, ideal for gaming and data-intensive tasks. Its ability to maximize PCIe 4.0 potential, coupled with its adept thermal management and the power of Samsung’s Magician software, solidifies its position among the elite SSDs.

In summary, the Samsung 980 PRO Internal SSD’s rapid speeds, efficient thermal control, and reliable performance maintenance, make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Despite the absence of a 4TB option, the 980 PRO’s prowess cements its status as a must-have for those seeking the pinnacle of SSD technology.

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

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