Best SSD for X670E & X670 Motherboards

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The AMD X670E and X670 motherboards have firmly established themselves as high-performance solutions tailored for the latest Zen 4 desktop processors, including the impressive Ryzen 9 7950X3D, Ryzen 9 7900X3D, and Ryzen 7 7800X3D. These motherboards cater to gaming enthusiasts and power users alike, boasting exceptional capabilities that harness the full potential of cutting-edge hardware. To complement the prowess of these motherboards, selecting the right SSD is paramount. In this guide, we delve into the top recommendations for SSDs that seamlessly integrate with the X670E and X670 motherboards, ensuring an optimal computing experience for users.

To address this, we’ve meticulously reviewed and tested the latest SSD offerings, presenting you with a curated list of top recommended M.2 PCIe SSDs and 2.5-inch SATA SSDs for X670E & X670. These storage solutions not only harness the power of these high-end motherboards but also ensure a seamless and lightning-fast computing experience. So, whether you’re eyeing an M.2 PCIe SSD for lightning-fast data access or a 2.5-inch SATA SSD for a balanced blend of performance and storage, our recommendations cater to diverse needs and preferences.

Our Top Pick:

Best M.2 PCIe SSDs for X670E & X670 Motherboards:

  1. Crucial T700: The Fastest SSD / Best PCIe 5.0 SSD
  2. Samsung 990 PRO: Best Overall PCIe 4.0 SSD
  3. WD BLACK SN850X: Best PCIe 4.0 SSD / Best M.2 SSD Alternative
  4. Seagate FireCuda 530: Best M.2 SSD Alternative
  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

Best 2.5-inch SATA SSDs for X670E & X670 Motherboards:

  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.

Best M.2 PCIe SSDs for X670E & X670 Motherboards

1. 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

If speed is your ultimate pursuit, look no further than the Crucial T700 Internal SSD – a true powerhouse and the paramount choice for PCIe 5.0 SSD enthusiasts. This exceptional drive encapsulates unrivaled speed, positioned as the fastest in the market, boasting an impressive 12,400 MB/s max read speeds and 11,800 MB/s write speeds in sequential transfers. What’s even more remarkable is its affordability, offering superior performance at just a marginally higher cost than entry-level PCIe NVMe SSDs.

The Crucial T700 leverages an M.2 2280 single-side form factor, equipped with an NVMe controller, DRAM chip, and two flash packages. These flash packages house Micron’s cutting-edge 232-layer TLC NAND3, showcasing peak speeds of 2.4GB/s. This advantage stems from Crucial’s affiliation with Micron, enabling optimized SSD performance through early access to advanced technology.

Presenting itself in capacities of 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, with or without heatsinks, the T700 acknowledges the thermal demands of PCIe 5.0 SSDs. To ensure efficient operation, heatsinks are crucial due to the higher heat generation associated with these drives. Models equipped with pre-attached heatsinks cater to systems without built-in cooling mechanisms.

Furthermore, the Crucial T700 embraces Microsoft’s DirectStorage, enhancing data transfer between graphics cards and SSDs, bypassing CPU involvement. This feature translates to reduced loading times for textures, decreased CPU usage, and accelerated asset rendering – a feature set poised for optimal performance in gaming and content creation.

Endorsed by a robust five-year warranty, the Crucial T700 Internal SSD shines as a beacon of innovation. With its groundbreaking 232-layer TLC NAND and awe-inspiring read and write speeds, this drive redefines the upper echelons of storage performance, making it a fitting companion for your pursuit of seamless gaming, rapid multitasking, and dynamic content creation.

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

2. 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 Internal SSD stands as the definitive choice for those seeking unmatched performance and unyielding reliability in the world of storage solutions. Labeled the best overall PCIe 4.0 SSD, the 990 PRO represents the pinnacle of technological advancement, setting unprecedented benchmarks for speed and efficiency.

A successor to the esteemed 980 Pro, the Samsung 990 PRO is a testament to Samsung’s dedication to innovation. This SSD raises the bar across all aspects – read and write speeds, power efficiency, and heat management. Available in 1TB and 2TB sizes, with or without a heatsink, this SSD also comes with a reassuring five-year warranty, ensuring the longevity of your investment.

Samsung’s reputation for stellar performance and unwavering reliability is upheld through their range of storage products, and the 990 PRO stands as the crown jewel of this legacy. With sequential read speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s and write speeds of up to 6,900 MB/s, the 990 PRO transcends the boundaries of speed, outperforming its predecessor, the 980 Pro, in every aspect.

PC specialist Matthew Connatser attests to the 990 PRO’s prowess, recommending it for those who frequently engage with large files. The SSD’s 1TB and 2TB capacities cater to various needs, ensuring a perfect fit for a diverse range of users. The inclusion of a heatsink option and RGB lighting adds versatility, making it an optimal choice for laptops or systems lacking adequate cooling.

Samsung’s expertise is evident in their meticulous design, featuring a smart thermal feature that maintains optimal temperature levels. Boasting the innovative Pascal controller and V7 TLC NAND flash, the 990 PRO guarantees not only speed but also efficiency. Compatibility spans from desktops to laptops to the PlayStation 5 console.

Undoubtedly, the Samsung 990 PRO is a trailblazer, breaking performance records and enhancing efficiency. The road to premium performance does come at a cost, but the drive’s excellence justifies the investment. While there are PCIe 5.0 drives with faster performance available, they often come with a premium. Samsung offers an unbeatable package of performance, reliability, and support, making the 990 PRO a trailblazer in the world of SSDs.

In summary, the Samsung 990 PRO Internal SSD is the embodiment of power and speed, redefining the limits of PCIe 4.0 storage. Its high-speed performance, endurance, and compatibility make it an unparalleled choice for users demanding exceptional storage for their high-performance systems. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or professional, the 990 PRO’s exceptional attributes position it as a top contender in the SSD market.

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

3. 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 stands as an embodiment of power and speed, solidifying its position as a leading contender in the PCIe 4.0 SSD market. Boasting remarkable performance, this drive offers an unrivaled experience for both gaming enthusiasts and demanding professionals.

A true champion in speed, the SN850X’s sequential read speeds of up to 7300 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 6600 MB/s leave little room for sluggishness. Its remarkable throughput is further demonstrated with random read and write speeds of 1,200,000 IOPS and 1,100,000 IOPS, respectively. This not only ensures rapid game and application loading but also establishes it as an ideal choice for multitasking.

The introduction of Game Mode 2.0, exclusive to Windows PCs, heightens performance during gaming and content creation, allowing you to maintain your competitive edge. The drive’s 20-82-20035-B1 controller optimally utilizes the PCIe 4.0 interface, presenting peak performance that rivals top contenders.

Western Digital’s dedication to quality is evident in the optional RGB-equipped heatsink, catering to those seeking consistent performance during prolonged usage. With capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, this drive accommodates diverse needs, while the 1.75 million hours MTTF and 1200TB endurance underscore its durability.

Despite fierce competition, the WD Black SN850X captures the spotlight as a valuable alternative to pricier counterparts, offering top-tier performance at a reasonable cost. Supported by robust software and backed by a limited 5-year manufacturer warranty, this SSD reaffirms Western Digital’s commitment to excellence. In the realm of high-performance SSDs, the WD Black SN850X boldly asserts itself as a prime choice for those who refuse to compromise on speed and reliability.

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

4. 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 true speed demon among its peers. Engineered to ignite performance and elevate storage capabilities, this SSD is a game-changer for both gamers and content creators. Sporting a cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 x4 interface, the FireCuda 530 boasts remarkable read and write speeds of up to 7300 MB/s and 6900 MB/s, respectively, delivering a level of responsiveness that redefines the user experience.

A notable advantage of the FireCuda 530 is its unwavering durability, a result of its Seagate-validated E18 controller and 3D TLC NAND memory. This ensures not just exceptional performance, but the ability to withstand demanding usage, allowing you to explore the limits of your machine confidently.

Whether you’re engaging in intensive gaming sessions or tackling resource-intensive content creation tasks, the FireCuda 530’s transfer speeds, up to two times faster than PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSDs and a staggering twelve times faster than SATA SSDs, make it an indispensable tool for boosting productivity.

Moreover, its colossal total bytes written (TBW) rating of 2550TB attests to its robustness under prolonged use, effectively translating into years of reliable operation. Adding to its allure, the 4TB storage capacity ensures that you can store vast amounts of data, including graphics-intensive games and hefty files, without a hitch.

For those unforeseen data mishaps, the FireCuda 530 offers a reassuring safety net with its included 3-year Rescue Data Recovery Services, promising a remarkable 95% success rate in data retrieval.

In conclusion, the Seagate FireCuda 530 Internal SSD emerges as a powerhouse solution for performance-hungry users, epitomizing speed, endurance, and dependability, all within a compact M.2 2280 form factor. Whether you’re gaming, creating, or both, this SSD’s prowess is poised to elevate your computing endeavors to new heights.

Seagate FireCuda 530 PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe 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 boldly claims its position as one of the fastest SSDs available, ushering in a new era of storage excellence. Ideal for those seeking rapid, high-capacity storage solutions, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD is a testament to cutting-edge technology. Designed with Toshiba’s BiCS4 96L TLC NAND Flash memory and harnessed with PCIe 4.0 bandwidth, this SSD achieves remarkable speeds, boasting an impressive 7100 MB/s for read operations and 6600 MB/s for write tasks when matched with a compatible motherboard.

Diving into its versatility, the Rocket 4 PLUS seamlessly adapts to varying setups, catering to both PCIe 4.0 and 3.0 motherboards. Even on PCIe 3.0 platforms, it surges ahead with read speeds reaching 3400 MB/s and write speeds at 3000 MB/s, ensuring consistent performance across systems.

An embodiment of robust engineering, this SSD embraces open NAND Flash Interfaces, including ONFi 2.3, ONFi 3.0, ONFi 3.2, and ONFi 4.0. Its integrated power management effortlessly maneuvers through different power states, while support for SMART and TRIM commands bolsters data integrity.

Additionally, the Rocket 4 PLUS excels in endurance, featuring Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code, and Over-Provision technology. Available in capacities ranging from 500GB to a staggering 8TB, this SSD caters to diverse storage needs, catering to demanding tasks with ease.

In sum, the Sabrent Rocket 4 PLUS NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD redefines speed and reliability, propelling computing experiences to unparalleled heights. It’s a testament to innovation, addressing the needs of tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.

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 PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Internal SSD, though succeeded by the 990 PRO, remains an exceptional PCIe 4.0 SSD choice. Renowned for its remarkable performance and top-notch quality, the 980 PRO has garnered widespread acclaim. The 2TB variant of this SSD stands out as one of the finest in the market, delivering impressive Gen4 speeds, sustained write rates, and robust hardware-based AES 256-bit encryption. The SSD’s sleek design, bundled software suite, and a 5-year warranty further elevate its appeal.

While its endurance ratings may be average and its cost slightly higher than some competitors, the 980 PRO excels in delivering outstanding SSD performance. It stands strong amongst PCIe Gen 4 contenders for gaming, though newer drives have since surpassed it in speed. However, the introduction of the Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink rectifies this, making it an ideal choice for Sony PS5 SSD expansion.

Crafted with V-NAND 3-bit MLC flash technology and Elpsis controller, the 980 PRO SSD boasts an M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe 4.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3 interface, delivering sequential read speeds up to 7000 MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 5100 MB/s. Its TCG/Opal 2.0 and MS eDrive encryption options further enhance security.

The Samsung 980 Pro’s performance is truly top-tier within the Gen4 SSD realm. Despite its cost, it remains a solid pick for those seeking one of the best SSDs available. With its next-level data transfer rates, compatibility with PCIe 3.0, and exceptional build quality, the 980 PRO delivers unrivaled performance and reliable thermal management, making it an ideal choice for gamers, tech enthusiasts, and power users alike.

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 offers an enticing blend of performance and affordability, positioning itself as a compelling option for users seeking excellent value in the PCIe 4.0 SSD market. While it may not achieve the absolute fastest speeds available, its balanced approach caters to specific workloads and delivers consistent, reliable performance.

Powered by Micron’s NVMe architecture controller, the P5 Plus employs an eight-channel design with LPDDR4 DRAM to enhance FTL management. With sequential read and write speeds of up to 6,600MB/s and 4,000MB/s respectively, it stands as a solid performer within its price range. Notably, the 2TB model boasts endurance up to 1,200 TBW, ensuring prolonged usability for demanding tasks.

A standout feature is the P5 Plus’s data security. With AES 256-bit full-disk encryption, TRIM, and S.M.A.R.T. data reporting, it offers robust protection. Its compatibility with Windows BitLocker further elevates its security credentials.

The drive’s value proposition extends to its competitive pricing, making it a cost-effective alternative for users looking to harness PCIe 4.0 speeds without breaking the bank. The Crucial P5 Plus bridges the gap between top-tier PCIe 3.0 SSDs and newer PCIe 4.0 models, making it an attractive choice for those seeking optimal balance between price and performance.

Though not the fastest contender, the Crucial P5 Plus confidently addresses the needs of gamers, creative professionals, and power users. Its impressive feature set, competitive pricing, and commitment to data security make it a noteworthy investment for those aiming to enhance their system’s capabilities without overstretching their budget.

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

Best 2.5-inch SATA SSDs for X670E & X670 Motherboards

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 testament to Samsung’s reputation for excellence in the SSD market. It has consistently delivered outstanding performance and reliability, making it the best overall 2.5-inch SATA SSD available. Whether you’re a gamer, a professional, or a general user seeking value, the 870 EVO has got you covered.

One of the key highlights of the 870 EVO is its remarkable read and write speeds that exceed 500MB/s, ensuring quick access and rendering for large files like 4K videos and 3D data. Its versatility shines through, making it suitable for various purposes, from gaming to professional work. The drive comes in sizes ranging from 250GB to a whopping 4TB, giving you ample space for all your storage needs, be it PC games, videos, or photos.

Samsung’s commitment to quality is evident in the Magician SSD management software, which allows you to monitor the health and performance of the drive. This feature complements the impressive endurance of up to 2400TB, ensuring the drive remains in peak condition throughout its lifespan. Furthermore, Samsung’s confidence in their product is highlighted by the included five-year warranty, providing users with peace of mind.

While the SATA performance may not match that of PCIe drives, the 870 EVO’s sustained performance, affordability, and variety of capacities make it an unbeatable option for those seeking dependable mass storage solutions. It’s an ideal choice for users looking to add storage through a traditional 2.5-inch SATA drive, and its compatibility with both notebooks and desktops further adds to its appeal.

In conclusion, the Samsung 870 EVO SATA SSD is a solid investment for anyone in need of reliable and high-performing storage. With its excellent performance, wide range of capacities, enduring reliability, and user-friendly features, it continues to hold its place as the best SATA SSD on the market.

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 stands as a compelling choice for those seeking a budget-friendly storage solution without compromising on performance. Offering exceptional value and reliability, the MX500 competes closely with the Samsung 870 EVO SSD, providing a cost-effective alternative that doesn’t sacrifice SATA performance.

Available in various capacities ranging from 250GB to 4TB, the MX500 caters to a diverse range of storage needs. In our Crucial MX500 review, the drive showcased sequential read speeds of around 561MB/s and sequential write speeds of about 504MB/s, confirming its efficiency in handling data transfers.

Crucial’s commitment to security is evident through features like self-encrypting drive (SED) and full disk encryption (FDE), alongside the AES-256 encryption engine. While enabling TCG/Opal or ATA Security command via the system BIOS is required, this ensures comprehensive data protection.

The MX500’s slim 7mm case design, commonly found in notebooks, assures seamless compatibility with various laptop and desktop configurations. Thanks to its improved 64-layer NAND and controller firmware, the MX500 achieves commendable overall performance, making it a reliable workhorse.

Backed by a five-year warranty and boasting an endurance rating of up to 700TBW for the 2TB version, the MX500 proves its durability and longevity. Despite its SATA interface not matching the speed of PCIe alternatives, the MX500 excels as a power-efficient and trustworthy storage solution.

The MX500 stands as an outstanding choice for those seeking a dependable SATA SSD without breaking the bank. Its combination of affordability, diverse capacities, and respectable performance earns it praise from the community. If you’re after solid speeds and reasonable pricing, the Crucial MX500 emerges as an ideal contender, especially when considering its affordability across all capacities compared to the Samsung 870 EVO.

In summary, the Crucial MX500 SATA SSD delivers excellent value, reliable performance, and security features. Its affordability, range of capacities, and dependable speeds make it a prime choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable storage upgrade.

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 a remarkable solution for creative professionals, enhancing workflow efficiency with its massive 4TB storage capacity and dependable performance. Engineered to cater to high demands, this solid-state drive boasts impressive sequential read and write speeds of 560 MB/s and 520 MB/s, respectively. Its speed capabilities ensure swift access to raw high-resolution images, 4K videos, and crucial files, elevating the creative process.

SSDs are renowned for their power efficiency and minimal vibration, making them an optimal choice for long-lasting laptop storage. Installation is straightforward; fit the drive into an available 2.5″ drive bay with a 7mm height, and experience the benefits. The SATA III interface ensures broad compatibility across various computer systems, including older models. The package includes Acronis True Image software for data transfer and protection, along with the Western Digital SSD Dashboard for health monitoring.

The WD Blue SA510 offers a substantial 4TB capacity, a luxury that might come at a slightly higher price point, but it’s worth it. The drive’s impressive read and write speeds are accompanied by top-tier SATA performance. As part of WD’s Blue family, it’s equipped with a five-year limited warranty and offers free cloning software.

Upgrading creativity is at the forefront of the WD Blue SA510, providing exceptional sequential read speeds of up to 560 MB/s. This drive ensures the capability to tackle demanding workloads seamlessly. Its durability, energy efficiency, and reduced vibrations set it apart from mechanical hard drives, making it an excellent choice for dependable and efficient storage.

Data protection is well-covered with downloadable Acronis True Image software, while the Western Digital SSD Dashboard aids in managing the drive’s health and performance. Furthermore, a three-month trial for Dropbox Professional enhances sharing and collaboration capabilities.

In conclusion, the WD Blue SA510 SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD marries expansive storage capacity with high-speed performance, ideal for creative professionals seeking to streamline their workflows. Its compatibility, endurance, and comprehensive software support make it an attractive choice for those demanding both efficiency and reliability from their storage solutions.

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 stands as an exceptional choice for enterprise environments and businesses requiring substantial storage capacities. Boasting some of the highest speeds in the market, this second-generation QLC SSD is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to quality and performance.

Offering capacities ranging from 1TB to a remarkable 8TB, the 870 QVO caters to businesses seeking extensive storage. Its speeds of up to 560 MB/s for read and 530 MB/s for write operations ensure efficient data access and transfer, enhancing productivity.

The inclusion of Samsung’s signature Magician software, coupled with drive health features, allows users to monitor and manage their drive effectively. Although priced comparably to the Samsung 870 EVO, it provides a more budget-friendly alternative to the 860 EVO, making it a cost-effective option.

The 870 QVO’s 8TB variant is especially well-suited for enterprise applications, delivering high capacity and impressive speeds to support demanding workloads. This drive adheres to a 2.5″ 7mm form factor and utilizes the SATA III interface, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of systems.

The Samsung Magician Software further enhances the drive’s appeal, enabling users to keep track of drive health and stay updated with the latest advancements. Backed by a limited 3-year manufacturer warranty, the 870 QVO provides reassurance of its reliability.

In summary, the Samsung 870 QVO SATA SSD is a powerful contender in the realm of high-capacity, high-speed storage. Designed with enterprise environments in mind, it strikes an ideal balance between performance and storage, making it a valuable asset for businesses seeking efficient data management and 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 stands as a prime choice for budget-conscious users seeking impressive capacity without compromising on performance. With an emphasis on exceptional price-to-gigabyte value, this drive offers fast and capacious storage at an affordable rate, making it a standout option for those looking to maximize storage without breaking the bank.

The 2TB capacity of the Crucial BX500 presents an appealing proposition for mass storage requirements, while remaining cost-effective. Offering impressive sequential read speeds of up to 540 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 500 MB/s, the drive ensures swift data transfers, quicker system boot times, and an overall enhanced computing experience.

The BX500 represents a compelling alternative to pricier drives like the Samsung 870 EVO. For instance, the 1TB model is priced at just $41.99, a substantial saving compared to competitors. With 240GB, 480GB, and 2TB versions available as well, the drive caters to various storage needs while maintaining its cost-efficient stance.

While not the fastest SSD on the market, the Crucial BX500 proves to be a solid performer, particularly for everyday tasks. Its compatibility with 2.5″ drive bays that support 7mm drive heights ensures ease of installation. With a SATA III 6 Gb/s interface and Micron 3D NAND technology, the drive delivers reliable and consistent performance.

In summary, the Crucial BX500 SATA SSD strikes an excellent balance between affordability and functionality. Its focus on value-driven storage solutions, coupled with commendable sequential read and write speeds, makes it a compelling choice for users seeking budget-friendly yet efficient storage upgrades. Whether you’re looking to enhance mass storage capabilities or improve overall system performance, the Crucial BX500 is a worthy contender.

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

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