Feeling like your computer is stuck in slow motion? A sluggish startup, endless loading screens, or lagging file transfers can really grind your gears. If you’re looking to give your desktop or laptop a serious speed boost without breaking the bank, upgrading to a solid-state drive (SSD) is one of the best moves you can make. And when it comes to finding that sweet spot between ample storage and affordability, a best 400 or 500 gigabyte SSD often hits just right.
These capacities offer enough space for your operating system, essential applications, and a decent chunk of games or media files, all while delivering lightning-fast performance compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). But with so many options out there – from blazing-fast NVMe drives to reliable SATA models, and even portable powerhouses – how do you pick the right one?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the legwork for you. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the top 10 best 400 or 500 gigabyte SSDs on the market today, helping you find the perfect match for your needs and budget. Let’s get your system running like a dream!
Our Top Picks for the Best 400 or 500 Gigabyte SSDs
Here’s a detailed look at the SSDs that truly stand out in the 400-500GB range:
1. SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive
The Samsung 870 EVO continues Samsung’s legacy of excellence in the SATA SSD space. If you’re looking to upgrade an older system that doesn’t support NVMe, or simply want a rock-solid, incredibly reliable drive that maximizes the SATA interface, this is your go-to. It boasts impressive sequential speeds that push the limits of SATA, ensuring your everyday computing, from booting up to launching apps, feels incredibly snappy. Its widespread compatibility makes it a fuss-free upgrade for almost any desktop or laptop.
- Key Features:
- Maximizes SATA interface with up to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
- Industry-defining reliability with up to 600 TBW endurance and a 5-year warranty.
- Highly compatible with major host systems, motherboards, NAS, and more.
- Easy plug-and-play installation in standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor.
- Includes Samsung Magician software for easy drive management and optimization.
- Pros:
- Exceptional reliability and long-term performance for a SATA drive.
- Broad compatibility makes it suitable for almost any older system.
- Excellent value for money and a trusted brand.
- Included software helps manage drive health and performance.
- Cons:
- Limited by SATA interface speeds, slower than NVMe alternatives.
- Doesn’t offer the extreme speeds needed for professional 8K video editing or heavy gaming on modern systems.
- User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 870 EVO for its straightforward installation and the immediate, noticeable speed improvement it brings to older PCs. Many highlight its reputation for reliability and consistent performance, making it a favorite for system revivals.
- See it on Amazon here
2. SAMSUNG 980 SSD 500GB PCIe 3.0×4, NVMe M.2 2280, Internal
Stepping into the world of NVMe, the Samsung 980 SSD offers a phenomenal leap in speed over SATA drives, perfect for gamers, creative professionals, or anyone who simply demands faster loading times. With sequential read/write speeds that are more than 6 times faster than SATA SSDs, it truly transforms your computing experience. Its intelligent thermal control and “Full Power Mode” ensure consistent, high performance even during intense workloads, all backed by Samsung’s renowned reliability.
- Key Features:
- Impressive NVMe PCIe 3.0×4 speeds up to 3,500/3,000 MB/s.
- “Full Power Mode” for continuous, consistent high performance.
- Optimized endurance (up to 600 TBW) with a 5-year limited warranty.
- Reliable thermal control with nickel coating and a heat spreader label.
- Managed by Samsung Magician software for health monitoring and optimization.
- Pros:
- Significantly faster than SATA SSDs, ideal for boosting overall system responsiveness.
- Excellent endurance and trusted Samsung reliability.
- Effective thermal management prevents performance throttling.
- Full Power Mode ensures peak performance without latency.
- Cons:
- Requires an M.2 slot and NVMe support on your motherboard.
- While fast, it’s PCIe 3.0, so not as bleeding-edge as newer Gen 4 drives.
- User Impressions: This drive is a fan favorite for its dramatic speed improvements, especially when upgrading from an HDD or SATA SSD. Users frequently mention how quickly games load and how much smoother their general workflow becomes.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Kingston NV3 500GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0
The Kingston NV3 brings PCIe 4.0 performance into the accessible 500GB range, offering a significant upgrade path for modern systems. While specific speeds for this capacity aren’t detailed in the features, its Gen 4×4 NVMe PCIe interface inherently means it’s designed for much faster data transfer rates than PCIe 3.0 drives, making it an excellent choice for new builds or systems that can take advantage of the latest standard. Its focus on low power consumption is also a big plus for laptops and power-efficient desktops.
- Key Features:
- Gen 4×4 NVMe PCIe performance for high speeds.
- M.2 2280 form factor.
- Ideal for high-speed, low-power storage solutions.
- Pros:
- Leverages the faster PCIe 4.0 standard for future-proof performance.
- Low power consumption is great for laptops and energy-efficient systems.
- A solid upgrade for users moving from older NVMe or SATA drives.
- Cons:
- Specific read/write speeds, TBW, and warranty details for the 500GB model are not explicitly provided in the product description.
- Requires a motherboard with PCIe 4.0 M.2 support to achieve full potential.
- User Impressions: Users upgrading to a Gen 4 system find this drive to be a cost-effective way to get into the newer, faster standard. They appreciate its snappiness for daily tasks and gaming, though some desire more detailed performance specs.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s
For those who need performance on the go, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is an absolute champion. It combines impressive NVMe speeds with incredible ruggedness, making it perfect for photographers, videographers, or anyone who carries large files and needs them protected. Its compact size, secure carabiner loop, and robust drop/water/dust resistance mean you can take your data anywhere with peace of mind. Plus, the built-in hardware encryption adds an extra layer of security.
- Key Features:
- NVMe solid-state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water/dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for easy attachment.
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption for private content.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management.
- Pros:
- Extremely durable and rugged, ideal for outdoor or travel use.
- Very fast portable speeds for quick transfers of large files.
- Excellent security features with hardware encryption.
- Compact and lightweight design with useful accessories.
- Cons:
- External drive, so not suitable for internal system upgrades.
- Generally more expensive per gigabyte than internal SSDs.
- User Impressions: Outdoor photographers and content creators especially rave about this drive’s durability and speed. They love that they can trust it with valuable data even in challenging environments.
- See it on Amazon here
5. WD_BLACK 500GB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
Designed specifically with gamers in mind, the WD_BLACK SN7100 is a powerhouse PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD ready to slash load times and deliver ultra-responsive gameplay. While the top speeds of 7,250MB/s are for higher capacities, even the 500GB model will offer fantastic performance for a gaming rig. It’s built with Western Digital’s latest TLC 3D NAND and boasts improved power efficiency, making it an excellent choice for gaming laptops and handheld devices where battery life matters.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 interface for lightning-fast gaming performance.
- Up to 35% faster performance than previous drives.
- Built with Western Digital’s latest TLC 3D NAND technology.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- Monitor drive health with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only).
- Pros:
- Excellent choice for serious gamers due to its speed and responsiveness.
- Improved power efficiency makes it great for gaming laptops.
- The WD_BLACK Dashboard offers useful monitoring tools.
- Built for reliability and endurance.
- Cons:
- Peak speeds are quoted for higher capacity models, so the 500GB might be slightly less.
- Dashboard software is Windows-only.
- User Impressions: Gamers consistently report a massive improvement in game loading times and overall system fluidity. Many specifically praise its compatibility and performance with new gaming consoles and systems that support PCIe Gen4.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Western Digital 500GB WD Blue SN5000 NVMe Internal Solid State Drive
The WD Blue SN5000 offers a compelling blend of PCIe Gen 4 speed and reliable performance, making it ideal for everyday users, multitasking, and creative workloads. While its peak speeds are a step below the top-tier gaming drives, it still offers a significant upgrade from PCIe 3.0 or SATA SSDs. With Western Digital’s nCache 4.0 Technology and dependable endurance, it’s a solid choice for those who need a robust drive for productivity and managing various applications simultaneously. The included Acronis True Image software for data migration is a welcome bonus.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 speeds up to 5,500MB/s read (4TB model).
- Harnesses AI and streamlines workflows with Western Digital nCache 4.0 Technology.
- High-end NVMe storage technology for smooth multitasking.
- Dependable endurance (up to 1,200TBW for 4TB model).
- Free Acronis True Image for Western Digital data migration software.
- Pros:
- Good balance of speed and endurance for general computing and creative tasks.
- Included data migration software simplifies the upgrade process.
- Reliable performance from a trusted brand.
- Efficient for multitasking and running demanding applications.
- Cons:
- Peak speeds and endurance figures are for higher capacities.
- Not the absolute fastest PCIe Gen4 drive available, but still a solid performer.
- User Impressions: Users value this drive for its consistent performance and reliability in daily use. The inclusion of Acronis True Image is frequently highlighted as a significant convenience, making upgrades hassle-free.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Vansuny 500GB Portable External SSD, USB 3.1 Gen2 450MB/s
The Vansuny Portable External SSD is a fantastic choice if you need a compact, durable, and versatile external storage solution. While not as blisteringly fast as some NVMe-based portables, its USB 3.1 Gen2 speeds (450/400 MB/s) are more than enough for everyday backups, carrying media files, or running applications directly from the drive. Its mini metal design provides excellent heat dissipation and makes it remarkably resistant to shocks and wear, plus it’s compatible with a wide range of devices, from PCs to smartphones.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-fast transfer speeds of up to 450MB/s read and 400MB/s write.
- Mini, lightweight, and metal-made design for durability and heat dissipation.
- Waterproof, shockproof, and wear-resistant performance.
- Strong compatibility with Windows, Mac OS, and Android systems, USB-A and Type-C ports.
- Includes Type-A to Type-C adapter, cable, and storage bag.
- Pros:
- Extremely portable and durable, great for on-the-go use.
- Good speeds for general external storage needs.
- Excellent compatibility across various devices and operating systems.
- Comes with useful accessories right in the box.
- Cons:
- Slower than NVMe external SSDs.
- USB 3.1 Gen2 is not the very latest USB standard.
- User Impressions: Customers love the Vansuny for its tiny footprint and robust build. It’s a popular choice for carrying essential files, backing up photos on the go, and as a portable drive for various devices due to its wide compatibility.
- See it on Amazon here
8. fanxiang 500GB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD for
For gamers seeking a high-performance PCIe Gen 4 drive that won’t break the bank, the fanxiang S880E is a compelling option. It boasts impressive sequential read speeds of up to 6300 MB/s, making it excellent for rapid game loading and large file transfers. This drive is specifically optimized for gaming, including compatibility with PS5 and DirectStorage, ensuring a smooth and immersive experience. Its clever thermal design, featuring graphite and aluminum foil layers, helps maintain peak performance even during intense gaming sessions, preventing thermal throttling.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller with NVMe 2.0 technology.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 6300/3100 MB/s.
- Optimized for gaming, compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage.
- Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
- Efficient thermal control with a graphite-coated copper foil layer and aluminum foil.
- 5-year warranty from a brand with over 20 years of manufacturing experience.
- Pros:
- Very high PCIe Gen 4 read speeds, excellent for gaming and large file access.
- Strong compatibility with modern gaming platforms like PS5.
- Effective thermal management helps sustain high performance.
- Good warranty and brand experience.
- Cons:
- Write speeds, while good, are notably lower than read speeds.
- Explicitly stated “Not for Mac OS.”
- User Impressions: Gamers often highlight the noticeable reduction in loading screens and the overall fluidity this drive brings to their systems. The effective thermal solution is also a frequently praised feature, keeping performance consistent during long gaming sessions.
- See it on Amazon here
9. fanxiang S101 500GB SSD SATA III 6Gb/s 2.5″ Internal
The fanxiang S101 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to revitalize an older computer that relies on the SATA interface. This 2.5-inch SSD offers a significant performance boost over traditional HDDs, with blazing read and write speeds of 550MB/s, ensuring faster boot-ups and application loading. Built with durable 3D NAND TLC chips, it promises a longer lifespan and reliable data storage. Its extensive compatibility across desktops, laptops, and various operating systems makes it a versatile and dependable upgrade solution.
- Key Features:
- SATA III 6Gb/s interface with 550MB/s read and write speeds.
- Boots up at least 50% faster compared to HDDs.
- Long-lasting durability with 3D NAND TLC chips.
- Extensive compatibility with desktops, laptops, and various OS (Windows, Linux, Mac OS).
- 5-year quality assurance.
- Pros:
- Significant speed upgrade from traditional HDDs, bringing new life to older systems.
- High endurance due to TLC NAND.
- Very wide compatibility, making it a versatile choice.
- Excellent value and a solid warranty.
- Cons:
- Performance is limited by the SATA interface, slower than any NVMe drive.
- Not ideal for brand-new, high-performance builds.
- User Impressions: Many users praise the S101 for its ease of installation and the dramatic speed improvements it delivers to older machines. It’s often recommended as a cost-effective way to get rid of HDD bottlenecks.
- See it on Amazon here
10. FS810 500GB SSD, 2.5″ SSD SATA III 6Gb/s, Solid State Drive
The Fikwot FS810 is another strong contender in the 2.5-inch SATA SSD category, offering a straightforward and effective way to upgrade your computer. With speeds up to 560MB/s, it promises faster startups, quicker application loading, and overall improved system responsiveness compared to mechanical hard drives. It utilizes 3D NAND TLC technology, balancing performance and value, and boasts super compatibility with various operating systems. For those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly internal SSD to breathe new life into an older machine, the FS810 is an excellent choice.
- Key Features:
- SATA III 6Gb/s interface with blazing-fast read speeds of up to 560MB/s.
- Uses 3D NAND TLC technology for high storage capacity and speed.
- Super compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, and backward compatible with SATA Rev. 2.0.
- Easy upgrade for laptops or desktop computers, replacing traditional HDDs.
- 3-year service (warranty) and strict quality control.
- Pros:
- Excellent performance for a SATA drive, significantly faster than HDDs.
- Good value proposition with reliable TLC NAND.
- Broad compatibility ensures it works with many existing systems.
- Simple installation process.
- Cons:
- Limited by SATA speeds, not suitable for cutting-edge performance needs.
- 3-year warranty is slightly shorter than some competitors.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the FS810 for its affordability and the noticeable performance boost it provides to older laptops and desktops. Its straightforward installation and compatibility are often highlighted.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section: Your Questions Answered!
Still got questions about choosing the best 400 or 500 gigabyte SSD? We’ve got you covered!
Q1: Why should I choose a 400 or 500 gigabyte SSD instead of a larger or smaller one?
A1: A 400 or 500GB SSD is often the sweet spot for many users. It provides enough space for your operating system, essential software, and a good selection of games or media, offering a significant speed boost without the higher cost of 1TB+ drives. For most everyday users and even many gamers, it hits the perfect balance between capacity, performance, and price.
Q2: What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A2: The main difference is speed and connection type. SATA SSDs use the older SATA interface, offering speeds up to around 550 MB/s. They typically come in a 2.5-inch form factor. NVMe SSDs, on the other hand, use the PCIe interface (usually M.2 slots) and are significantly faster, with speeds ranging from 2,000 MB/s to over 7,000 MB/s. NVMe is ideal for new systems that support it, while SATA is great for upgrading older PCs that lack M.2 slots.
Q3: Can I install an SSD in my old laptop/desktop?
A3: Most likely, yes! If your old laptop or desktop uses a 2.5-inch hard drive, you can easily replace it with a 2.5-inch SATA SSD. If your system has an M.2 slot, you might be able to install an NVMe SSD for even faster performance. Always check your device’s manual or manufacturer specifications to confirm compatibility.
Q4: Will an SSD make my computer much faster?
A4: Absolutely! Upgrading from a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) to an SSD is often the single most impactful upgrade you can make for overall system speed. You’ll notice much faster boot times, quicker application loading, snappier file transfers, and a more responsive system experience.
Q5: What is TBW and why does it matter?
A5: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance, indicating how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it’s expected to fail. A higher TBW means the drive is rated to last longer under heavy use. For most users, modern SSDs have more than enough TBW to last many years, but it’s an important spec for power users or those with write-intensive workloads.
Q6: Do I need to reinstall Windows when upgrading to an SSD?
A6: Not necessarily! While a clean installation is always an option, many SSD manufacturers provide (or recommend) data migration software (like Acronis True Image, often included with WD drives) that allows you to clone your existing operating system and data from your old drive to the new SSD. This saves you the hassle of reinstalling everything.
Q7: Are external SSDs as fast as internal ones?
A7: Internal NVMe SSDs are generally faster than external SSDs because they connect directly to the motherboard’s PCIe lanes. External SSDs are limited by the speed of the USB interface they use (e.g., USB 3.0, USB 3.1 Gen2, USB 3.2 Gen2x2, Thunderbolt). While some high-end external NVMe drives can be very fast, internal NVMe drives typically offer the best performance for system operations.
Conclusion
Choosing the best 400 or 500 gigabyte SSD is a fantastic way to revitalize your computer, whether it’s an aging desktop or a new build. From the rock-solid reliability of SATA drives like the Samsung 870 EVO and fanxiang S101, to the blistering speeds of NVMe powerhouses like the Samsung 980 and WD_BLACK SN7100, and even rugged portable solutions like the SanDisk Extreme, there’s a perfect drive for every need.
Consider your budget, your system’s compatibility (SATA vs. NVMe M.2), and your primary use case (gaming, general productivity, portability) when making your decision. Whichever SSD you choose from this list, you’re in for a significant performance upgrade that will make your computing experience smoother and more enjoyable. Happy upgrading!