Best SSD for Intel Core i5-13500

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Designed to provide strong performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and content creation, the Intel Core i5-13500 is the 13th generation desktop processor builds upon the Hybrid Core architecture and Intel 7 process by fitting 14 cores (6 Performance cores and 8 Efficient cores), 20 threads onto a single processor while still supporting the LGA 1700 socket. If you’re the proud owner of the Intel Core i5-13500, you’re already well-acquainted with its impressive capabilities.

However, to truly unlock the potential of this processor, you’ll need a storage drive (SSD) that can keep up with its lightning-fast speeds and multitasking prowess. This Intel Core i5-13500 processor supports up to four PCIe 4.0 and sixteen PCIe 5.0 lanes, delivering 20 lanes in total for exceptional data throughput with compatible devices.

In this article, we delve into the realm of solid-state drives (SSDs) to uncover the best SSDs for the Intel Core i5-13500, ensuring your system operates at peak efficiency while delivering an unparalleled user experience. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a creative professional, or a dedicated gamer, choosing the right SSD is essential to harness the full might of your Intel Core i5-13500.

Our Top Pick: The best SSDs for Intel Core i5-13500

  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

Intel Core i5-13500 Store Links at B&H.

Best SSDs for Intel Core i5-13500

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 establishes itself as the new champion of high-performance storage, dethroning its own predecessor, the 980 Pro. This impressive update comes equipped with cutting-edge hardware enhancements, and a variety of options including an RGB-equipped heatsink and a forthcoming 4TB variant, affirming Samsung’s renewed dominance in the M.2 SSD arena. The performance of the 990 PRO is nothing short of exceptional, boasting impressive records across multiple metrics, including an outstanding 4K random read performance. During our extensive testing, the drive demonstrated remarkable consistency, energy efficiency, and maintained cool temperatures.

What truly sets the 990 PRO apart is its comprehensive software suite, offering one of the best SSD toolboxes available. Furthermore, Samsung’s commitment to quality is evidenced by its competent warranty and robust support infrastructure.

The inclusion of an optional heatsink with RGB for a mere $20 surcharge is a fantastic value proposition. Additionally, as market trends dictate, prices for this drive are likely to decrease over time, making it even more appealing. While it’s true that there are PCIe 5.0 alternatives boasting slightly superior performance, the 990 PRO remains an appealing option thanks to its more approachable price point.

Leveraging Samsung’s advanced V-NAND 3-bit MLC flash technology and proprietary controller, the 990 PRO promises unparalleled efficiency and performance. With impressive sequential read and write speeds of up to 7450 MB/s and 6900 MB/s respectively, it stands as one of the fastest SSDs available. The inclusion of features like TCG/Opal 2.0 security and robust encryption support further underscore its suitability for a wide range of applications.

In conclusion, the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 M.2 Internal SSD sets new benchmarks for speed, durability, and compatibility. Designed to cater to the needs of high-performance systems, this SSD is a clear winner in terms of both raw power and overall value. Its exceptional performance, alongside Samsung’s reputable brand and support, places the 990 PRO in a league of its own. While pricier than some alternatives, the investment is well justified for users seeking top-tier storage that won’t compromise on performance, reliability, or innovation.

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 SSD is a powerhouse among PCIe 4.0 drives, designed to cater to the demanding needs of gaming enthusiasts and performance-hungry users. Boasting impressive sequential read speeds of up to 7300 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 6600 MB/s, the SN850X showcases near-maximum potential within the PCIe Gen 4 interface, ensuring swift load times and seamless gaming experiences.

Designed with gamers in mind, the SN850X comes equipped with Game Mode 2.0, a feature-packed utility that enhances gaming performance through load prediction, overhead balancing, and adaptive thermal management. These innovations, combined with its top-tier speeds, provide a smooth and immersive gaming environment.

The SN850X’s superior performance extends to real-world transfers and random operations, making it an exceptional alternative to its rivals. Its endurance rating of up to 1200TB and an impressive MTTF of 1.75 million hours contribute to its reliability and durability, assuring consistent performance over extended periods of intense use.

This SSD caters to a variety of needs, offering capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB. The inclusion of an optional heatsink and RGB lighting adds a touch of style and practicality, making it a standout choice for users looking to enhance their PC setup.

WD’s Black SN850X stands as a remarkable successor to its predecessor, exhibiting performance enhancements and additional features, including Game Mode 2.0, which sets it apart from the competition. In a rapidly advancing field, this SSD manages to deliver substantial improvements, placing it at the forefront of mainstream consumer SSDs.

From synthetic benchmark tests to practical application scenarios, the SN850X consistently ranks among the best, showcasing peak sequential and random performance. While it may not represent a revolutionary leap beyond the SN850, it undoubtedly demonstrates commendable progress in performance and functionality.

Overall, the WD Black SN850X SSD is a true force to be reckoned with in the PCIe 4.0 SSD landscape. With its remarkable speed, enhanced features, and a variety of capacities, it offers a compelling option for users seeking top-tier performance and a reliable storage solution for gaming, content creation, and other demanding tasks.

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 undoubtedly one of the fastest and most powerful SSDs available in the market today. Geared towards gamers and content creators, this SSD utilizes a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface to deliver blazing read and write speeds of up to 7300 MB/s and 6900 MB/s, respectively. This kind of performance ensures a seamless and responsive experience, whether you’re gaming or handling resource-intensive content creation tasks.

The FireCuda 530’s remarkable speed is complemented by its exceptional durability. Thanks to the Seagate-validated E18 controller and 3D TLC NAND memory, this SSD is built to withstand heavy use and tackle demanding workloads without breaking a sweat.

With a massive 4TB storage capacity, the FireCuda 530 offers ample room for storing graphics-intensive games, large files, and multimedia content, making it a reliable and future-proof storage solution.

Furthermore, the inclusion of S.M.A.R.T. and TRIM functions ensures the drive’s performance is automatically optimized, ensuring top-notch efficiency at all times.

For added peace of mind, Seagate offers a 3-year Rescue Data Recovery Services package, providing a 95% success rate in recovering lost data in case of unexpected mishaps.

In summary, the Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD redefines speed, endurance, and reliability, making it an excellent choice for gamers and content creators looking to elevate their performance and storage capabilities to new heights.

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 is undeniably the pinnacle of SSD performance, standing as the fastest and most cutting-edge PCIe 5.0 SSD on the market. With a dazzling sequential read speed of up to 12,400 MB/s and an awe-inspiring sequential write speed of up to 11,800 MB/s, this SSD pushes the boundaries of data transfer rates to unprecedented levels.

Crafted with innovation at its core, the T700 boasts Micron’s revolutionary 232-layer TLC NAND3 technology, a testament to the drive’s blazing speed and efficiency. Crucial’s affiliation with Micron gives it a significant edge, allowing for optimal SSD design that leverages the latest technological advancements.

The T700 doesn’t merely excel in speed; it offers tangible benefits for gaming, content creation, and intensive workloads. Harnessing the power of Microsoft DirectStorage and GPU decompression, the drive elevates your gaming experience by rendering high-resolution textures up to 60% faster. Furthermore, it significantly reduces CPU utilization by up to 99%, freeing up system resources for multitasking seamlessly.

With options ranging from 1TB to a capacious 4TB, the T700 caters to various storage needs while maintaining its exceptional performance. It’s worth noting that, to achieve peak performance, proper heat management is essential. The drive comes with a stylish passive heatsink, ensuring optimal temperature regulation and sustained speed during demanding tasks. Additionally, versions without heatsinks allow compatibility with third-party cooling solutions or built-in M.2 heatsinks.

The Crucial T700 isn’t just a speed demon; it’s built to last. With a remarkable 600TB of write endurance per terabyte of capacity, it’s a workhorse that can handle intensive workloads without compromising performance or longevity. Backed by a five-year manufacturer warranty, the T700 showcases Crucial’s commitment to quality and reliability.

While the T700’s exceptional performance does come at a premium, it’s a small price to pay for the unmatched speed and capabilities it offers. If you’re an enthusiast seeking the ultimate SSD experience, the Crucial T700 Internal SSD stands as an unrivaled choice that sets a new standard for PCIe 5.0 SSDs. It’s not just a drive; it’s a leap into the future of 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 sets a blazing trail as one of the market’s fastest solid-state drives, introducing a new era of rapid, high-capacity storage. Equipped with Toshiba’s cutting-edge BiCS4 96L TLC NAND Flash memory and PCIe 4.0 bandwidth, this drive redefines performance benchmarks. With an astonishing maximum read speed of 7100 MB/s and a write speed of 6600 MB/s, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS ensures lightning-quick data access and transfer, catering to even the most demanding tasks.

Designed for versatility, this SSD seamlessly accommodates both modern and legacy systems, providing backward compatibility with PCIe 3.0 motherboards. Even on PCIe 3.0 setups, it maintains remarkable read speeds of up to 3400 MB/s and write speeds of 3000 MB/s.

The Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS doesn’t just excel in speed; it’s a model of intelligent design. Built-in power management facilitates smooth transitions between various power states, enhancing efficiency. Its compatibility with Open NAND Flash Interfaces, including ONFi 2.3, ONFi 3.0, ONFi 3.2, and ONFi 4.0, showcases its adaptability to evolving technology landscapes.

Furthermore, the SSD ensures data integrity and longevity through its support for SMART and TRIM commands, alongside integrated Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, and Over-Provision technology.

Available in capacities ranging from 500GB to an impressive 8TB, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS Internal SSD caters to diverse storage needs, empowering users with exceptional speed, reliability, and efficiency. In a world where performance matters, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS stands out as a formidable contender, reshaping the SSD landscape.

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 pushing the boundaries of storage technology, delivering an exceptional blend of performance and reliability. While newer contenders have emerged, the 980 Pro continues to shine as one of the top PCIe Gen4 SSDs, making it a solid choice for those who demand the best.

At the core of the 980 Pro’s excellence lies its formidable performance, exemplifying the peak of Gen4 SSD capabilities. With sequential read speeds reaching up to 7000 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 5100 MB/s, this SSD guarantees blazing fast data transfers, drastically reducing load times and enhancing overall system responsiveness. The Elpsis controller, working in harmony with Samsung’s V-NAND 3-bit MLC flash technology, ensures top-tier performance and durability.

The recent addition of the Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink addresses a crucial need for efficient heat management, particularly for Sony PS5 SSD compatibility. The heatsink adds to the already robust thermal control mechanisms, safeguarding the drive’s performance during prolonged and intense usage.

Designed with gamers and tech enthusiasts in mind, the 980 Pro thrives in high-performance computing environments, excelling in gaming, graphics, data analytics, and beyond. It’s a reliable choice for those who crave a seamless gaming experience and rapid application loading.

The inclusion of Samsung’s Magician software further amplifies the SSD’s appeal, providing users with advanced optimization tools for monitoring drive health, enhancing performance, and safeguarding valuable data.

Although newer models have emerged since its launch, the Samsung 980 Pro remains an exceptional choice. Its compelling blend of speed, reliability, and competitive pricing make it a formidable option in the SSD market. While a 4TB variant is notably absent, the available capacities of 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB cater to a range of storage needs.

In conclusion, the Samsung 980 Pro Internal SSD redefines high-performance storage with its exceptional sequential read and write speeds, intelligent thermal management, and advanced features. While newer competitors have entered the arena, the 980 Pro maintains its status as a top-tier SSD choice, offering extreme performance and durability to elevate your computing experience to unparalleled heights.

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 is a compelling option for those seeking an affordable yet high-performance PCIe 4.0 drive. While not the fastest in its class, its exceptional value and tailored optimization make it an attractive choice. It stands out with a well-balanced performance-to-price ratio, offering an ideal compromise between premium speed and budget considerations.

Featuring the Micron NVMe architecture controller with LPDDR4 DRAM, the P5 Plus is designed to excel in specific workloads, ensuring reliable performance. Its sequential read speeds of up to 6,600MB/s and write speeds of up to 5,000MB/s deliver solid results, positioning it between top-performing PCIe 3.0 SSDs and newer PCIe 4.0 contenders. This drive’s value is further enhanced by its compatibility with Windows BitLocker, AES 256-bit full-disk encryption, and TRIM and S.M.A.R.T. data reporting.

With a five-year warranty and up to 1,200TBW endurance for the 2TB variant, the P5 Plus offers durability that aligns with more expensive options. Its bundled software suite, including SSD toolbox and cloning software, simplifies setup and management.

While it may not be the absolute fastest, the Crucial P5 Plus SSD impresses with its balanced performance, affordability, and feature-rich package. Ideal for gamers, professionals, and creative users demanding high-performance computing, this SSD is an investment that promises both speed and data protection.

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

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