Looking to supercharge your computer’s performance without breaking the bank? A Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the best upgrades you can make, offering lightning-fast boot times, quicker application loading, and snappier overall responsiveness compared to traditional hard drives. And when it comes to reliability and speed, Samsung SSDs often stand out from the crowd.
But with so many options out there, how do you find the best price for Samsung 500GB SSD that fits your needs? Whether you’re upgrading an old laptop, building a new PC, or just need reliable external storage, finding the right balance of performance, features, and cost is key.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to the top 10 Samsung 500GB SSDs (and a couple of closely related contenders!) that offer excellent value. We’ll dive into internal SATA and NVMe drives, plus some handy portable options, helping you make an informed decision to get the most bang for your buck. Let’s get started!
Internal SSDs: Powering Up Your PC
Internal SSDs replace your computer’s existing hard drive, providing a dramatic speed boost for your operating system and applications. We’ll explore both the widely compatible SATA drives and the ultra-fast NVMe options.
1. SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State…
The Samsung 870 EVO is truly an SSD all-star, a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their desktop or laptop with reliable and fast storage. This drive maximizes the SATA interface, offering superb sequential speeds that make everyday computing, gaming, and even 8K video processing feel incredibly smooth. It’s built on Samsung’s trusted V-NAND technology, ensuring top-tier performance and endurance that’s hard to beat. If you’re searching for the best price for Samsung 500GB SSD in the SATA category, the 870 EVO is often a prime contender.
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Key Features:
- Maximize SATA interface limit with 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
- Excellent performance for everyday computing to 8K video processing.
- Industry-defining reliability with up to 600 TBW under a 5-year warranty.
- Highly compatible with major host systems (chipsets, motherboards, NAS).
- Easy plug-and-play upgrade for 2.5-inch SATA form factor.
- Managed by Samsung Magician 6 software for monitoring and updates.
- World’s #1 flash memory brand with in-house component production.
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Pros:
- Exceptional reliability and endurance.
- Strong performance for a SATA drive.
- Wide compatibility with existing systems.
- Easy to install and manage with Samsung Magician.
- Excellent long-term value.
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Cons:
- Limited by SATA interface speeds compared to NVMe.
- May not be the absolute cheapest option, but offers great value.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 870 EVO for its straightforward installation and noticeable speed improvements. Many highlight its reliability and the peace of mind that comes with Samsung’s brand reputation. It’s often recommended as a solid, dependable upgrade for older systems.
2. SAMSUNG 980 SSD 500GB PCle 3.0×4, NVMe M.2 2280, Internal…
Step up your game with the Samsung 980 NVMe SSD, designed for those who crave speed beyond what SATA can offer. This M.2 drive harnesses the power of PCIe 3.0, delivering blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds that are over 6 times faster than typical SATA SSDs. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a content creator, or simply someone who hates waiting, the 980 provides an outstanding performance boost. Its smart thermal control and “Full Power Mode” ensure consistent high performance, making it a fantastic internal storage solution.
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Key Features:
- Impressive NVMe PCIe 3.0 speeds up to 3,500/3,000 MB/s.
- “Full Power Mode” for continuous, consistent high performance.
- Optimized endurance with up to 600 TBW and a 5-year limited warranty.
- Reliable thermal control with nickel coating and heat spreader label.
- Managed by Samsung Magician software for optimal health and performance.
- Built with Samsung’s in-house V-NAND and controller technology.
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Pros:
- Significantly faster than SATA SSDs.
- Excellent for gaming, heavy applications, and large file transfers.
- Robust endurance and reliability.
- Effective thermal management prevents throttling.
- Easy to manage with Magician software.
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Cons:
- Requires an M.2 NVMe slot on your motherboard.
- May generate more heat than SATA drives under heavy load.
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User Impressions: Customers are thrilled with the speed of the 980, noting how quickly their systems boot up and games load. The “Full Power Mode” is a frequently praised feature for maintaining peak performance during intense tasks. It’s seen as a strong, budget-friendly entry into the NVMe world.
3. SAMSUNG SSD 870 EVO, 500 GB, Form Factor 2.5”,…
This is another listing for the highly popular Samsung 870 EVO 500GB SSD, confirming its status as a go-to choice for reliable internal storage. While the provided features for this specific listing are minimal, it underscores the core benefit of the 870 EVO: achieving the maximum performance possible from the SATA III interface. It’s the same reliable, widely compatible drive we discussed earlier, perfect for revitalizing an older system or serving as a solid storage foundation for a new build. When looking for the best price for Samsung 500GB SSD in the 2.5-inch form factor, this model is consistently a top contender.
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Key Features:
- Achieves the maximum SATA limit of 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor for broad compatibility.
- Backed by Samsung’s reputation for quality and reliability.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for a SATA drive.
- High compatibility with a wide range of devices.
- Renowned Samsung reliability and build quality.
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Cons:
- Performance capped by SATA interface, not as fast as NVMe.
- Features list for this specific product entry is very basic.
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User Impressions: As with the other 870 EVO listing, users love its ease of installation and the significant speed boost it provides over traditional hard drives. It’s considered a reliable workhorse for general computing needs.
4. Samsung 990 EVO SSD 1TB, PCIe Gen 4×4, Gen 5×2…
While our focus is primarily on 500GB drives, the Samsung 990 EVO 1TB is a fantastic high-performance option that showcases Samsung’s cutting-edge SSD technology. If you find a great deal on this larger capacity, it’s worth considering for its blistering speeds and impressive power efficiency. The 990 EVO is ready for the future with PCIe 5.0 compatibility (while still fully supporting PCIe 4.0), offering immense bandwidth for the most demanding tasks, from intensive gaming to professional content creation. It redefines what’s possible for internal storage.
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Key Features:
- Blazing read/write speeds up to 5,000/4,200 MB/s.
- Superior power efficiency, up to 70% improved performance per watt.
- Smart thermal control prevents performance drops.
- Compatible with both PCIe 4.0 x4 and future-ready PCIe 5.0 x2.
- Continual updates and management via Samsung Magician software.
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Pros:
- Extremely high performance for pro-level tasks and gaming.
- Excellent power efficiency for laptops and sustained performance.
- Advanced thermal management ensures stability.
- Forward-compatible with newer PCIe generations.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to capacity and performance.
- Requires a compatible M.2 NVMe slot (PCIe 4.0 or 5.0).
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User Impressions: Early adopters rave about the 990 EVO’s incredible speed and how it transforms their computing experience. Users appreciate the power efficiency, especially in laptops, and the peace of mind from its thermal management.
5. Samsung 860 EVO 500GB 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD…
The Samsung 860 EVO 500GB is a tried-and-true workhorse in the SATA SSD world. Powered by Samsung’s V-NAND Technology, it delivers optimized performance for everyday computing, making it a stellar choice for anyone upgrading from a traditional hard drive. It offers robust read and write speeds for a SATA drive and includes secure encryption features, providing excellent data protection. This model represents a strong option if you’re hunting for a reliable and affordable 2.5-inch best price for Samsung 500GB SSD.
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Key Features:
- Optimized performance for everyday computing, 4K video, and 3D data.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 550MB/s and 520MB/s.
- Secure AES 256-bit hardware-based encryption.
- 5-year limited warranty and 1.5 Million Hours MTBF.
- Wide compatibility with Windows, Mac OSX, and Linux.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of price and performance for SATA.
- Proven reliability and endurance.
- Data encryption for enhanced security.
- Broad operating system compatibility.
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Cons:
- Performance is limited by the SATA III interface.
- Newer 870 EVO offers slight improvements for similar price.
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User Impressions: This drive has a long history of positive reviews, with users consistently praising its durability and the noticeable speed improvements it brings to their systems. It’s often cited as a reliable, cost-effective upgrade.
6. SAMSUNG 860 EVO SSD 500GB – M.2 SATA Internal Solid…
This version of the Samsung 860 EVO 500GB comes in the M.2 SATA form factor, offering the same great performance as its 2.5-inch sibling but in a more compact size. Ideal for ultrabooks, mini PCs, or motherboards with M.2 slots, this drive brings Samsung’s trusted V-NAND technology to a sleeker form. It’s a perfect blend of space-saving design and reliable performance for mainstream PCs, laptops, and gaming rigs where a 2.5-inch drive might not fit or is less aesthetically pleasing.
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Key Features:
- M.2 SATA form factor for compact systems.
- Powered by Samsung V-NAND Technology for optimized performance.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 550MB/s and 520MB/s.
- Ideal for mainstream PCs and laptops.
- Broad hardware/software compatibility.
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Pros:
- Compact M.2 form factor saves space.
- Same reliable 860 EVO performance.
- Great for systems with limited 2.5-inch bays.
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Cons:
- Still a SATA drive, not as fast as NVMe.
- Requires an M.2 SATA slot (not all M.2 slots are SATA compatible).
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the small footprint of this M.2 version, making it easy to install in tight spaces. Its performance is consistently lauded as a solid upgrade over traditional drives, offering reliable and fast storage.
7. Samsung 970 EVO Plus SSD 500GB – M.2 NVMe Interface…
The Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB takes NVMe performance to the next level within the PCIe Gen 3.0 standard. Designed for tech enthusiasts, high-end gamers, and 4K/3D content designers, this drive boasts breakthrough read/write speeds that will make your system fly. Its innovative V-NAND Technology and advanced thermal management (Dynamic Thermal Guard) ensure consistent, high-speed performance without throttling. If you’re looking for an NVMe drive that offers top-tier performance for a 500GB capacity, this is an excellent choice.
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Key Features:
- Breakthrough sequential read/write speeds up to 3,500MB/s and 3,300MB/s.
- Enhanced bandwidth, low latency, and power efficiency with NVMe interface (PCIe Gen 3.0 x4).
- Performance optimization and data security via Samsung Magician Software.
- Superior heat dissipation with Samsung’s Dynamic Thermal Guard.
- 5-year limited warranty or 600 TBW.
- AES 256-bit Full Disk Encryption for data security.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast for PCIe Gen 3.0 NVMe.
- Ideal for demanding applications and gaming.
- Excellent thermal management.
- Robust endurance and encryption features.
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Cons:
- Requires an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 3.0 slot.
- May be overkill for basic computing tasks.
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User Impressions: Gamers and professionals are particularly fond of the 970 EVO Plus for its insane speed and reliability. Many users report significant reductions in load times for games and software, praising its consistent performance even under heavy loads.
Portable SSDs: Storage On The Go
Portable SSDs offer the speed and durability of SSDs in an external, compact form factor, perfect for backing up files, carrying large projects, or even expanding game console storage.
8. Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive,…
While the article focuses on 500GB, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD 1TB is a standout external drive from Samsung, embodying speed, durability, and portability. It’s perfect for creators, gamers, and anyone needing fast, secure storage on the go. With PCIe NVMe technology, it delivers impressive read/write speeds, making file transfers a breeze. Its compact, shock-resistant design ensures your data is safe wherever you take it, and it’s widely compatible with PCs, Macs, Android devices, and even smart TVs.
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Key Features:
- Fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s via PCIe NVMe.
- Compact design with substantial capacity (up to 4TB options available).
- Extensive compatibility with PCs, Macs, Android devices, cameras, and consoles.
- Supports Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fps) video recording directly.
- Durable with shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet.
- Solid aluminum unibody construction.
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Pros:
- Blazing fast external transfer speeds.
- Extremely durable and portable.
- Wide range of device compatibility.
- Excellent for high-resolution video capture.
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Cons:
- Premium price, especially for larger capacities.
- USB-C connectivity is standard, older devices might need adapters.
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User Impressions: Users love the T7 for its sleek design, lightning-fast transfers, and rugged build. It’s a popular choice for photographers, videographers, and gamers who need to move large files quickly and safely. The speed and portability are frequently highlighted.
9. Samsung T7 Portable SSD 500GB – Up to 1050MB/s -…
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD 500GB delivers the same incredible speed and durability as its larger counterparts, but in the exact 500GB capacity we’re looking for! It’s an ideal external storage solution for those who need fast, secure, and compact storage without necessarily needing a massive capacity. Its USB 3.2 Gen.2 interface ensures rapid data transfers, making it up to 9.5 times faster than traditional external hard drives. Plus, with its sleek aluminum housing and choice of colors, it looks as good as it performs. This is a top pick if you’re looking for the best price for Samsung 500GB SSD in a portable format.
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Key Features:
- External high-speed storage in a compact pocket format.
- Read/write speeds up to 1,050 MB/s or 1,000 MB/s with USB 3.2 Gen.2.
- Slim and stylish aluminum housing in various colors.
- Includes both Type-C to C and Type-C to A USB cables for broad connectivity.
- Durable with fall resistance up to two meters and optional password encryption.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for an external drive.
- Highly portable and durable.
- Stylish design with multiple color options.
- Versatile connectivity options.
- Robust data security features.
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Cons:
- Can be pricier than traditional external HDDs.
- Performance dependent on the host device’s USB port.
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User Impressions: Customers are highly satisfied with the T7 500GB for its lightning-fast transfer speeds and robust, pocket-sized design. It’s often praised as a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for backing up important data or expanding storage for various devices.
10. SSK Portable SSD 500GB External Solid State Drives, up to…
While our main focus is on Samsung, the SSK Portable SSD 500GB earns its spot on this list as a highly competitive alternative in the 500GB portable SSD market. This drive offers impressive speeds and a host of features that make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking reliable, compact external storage. With blazing-fast 10Gbps transfer speeds and smart thermal management, it ensures your data moves quickly and stays safe. Its unique capacity reminder and strong compatibility with iPhones for 4K ProRes video recording are also big pluses.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast 1050 MB/s read and 1000 MB/s write speeds (USB 3.2 Gen2).
- S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for drive health and lifespan.
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for universal connectivity.
- Maintains consistent speeds for large file transfers (up to 150GB with SLC caching).
- Optimized for iPhone 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture.
- Superior heat dissipation with a 2mm thick aluminum alloy case.
- Extremely lightweight and portable (36.6g, 2.61.50.5 inch).
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for its class.
- Excellent thermal management.
- Highly portable and durable.
- Unique features like iPhone 4K ProRes support.
- Versatile cable inclusion.
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Cons:
- Not a Samsung brand (if brand loyalty is a priority).
- Display capacity may vary slightly on Windows systems.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the SSK portable SSD for its impressive speed, especially when dealing with large video files. Its compact size and robust build quality also receive high marks, making it a favorite for on-the-go professionals and creators.
Finding the Best Price for Your Samsung 500GB SSD: What to Consider
When you’re looking for the best price for Samsung 500GB SSD, it’s not just about the lowest number. It’s about finding the best value that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Internal vs. External: Do you need to upgrade your computer’s main storage (internal) or simply carry files around (external)? Internal drives offer the biggest performance boost for your system, while external drives provide portable convenience.
- SATA vs. NVMe:
- SATA (2.5-inch or M.2 SATA): These are more affordable and compatible with most older laptops and desktops. They offer a huge speed boost over traditional hard drives, maxing out around 550 MB/s. Great for general use, gaming, and older systems.
- NVMe (M.2 PCIe): These are significantly faster, utilizing the PCIe interface (Gen 3, Gen 4, or even Gen 5). Ideal for new systems, high-end gaming, video editing, and demanding professional applications. They can reach speeds of several thousand MB/s. Make sure your motherboard has a compatible M.2 NVMe slot.
- Reliability & Endurance (TBW): Samsung SSDs are known for their reliability. Look for the “Terabytes Written” (TBW) rating, which indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime. Higher TBW means better endurance. All Samsung drives reviewed here have excellent TBW ratings, giving you peace of mind.
- Samsung Magician Software: A big perk of Samsung SSDs is their excellent Magician software. This free utility helps you monitor drive health, optimize performance, run benchmarks, and manage firmware updates. It’s a fantastic tool for keeping your SSD in top shape.
- Warranty: Samsung typically offers a 5-year limited warranty on many of its SSDs, which is a strong indicator of their confidence in product durability.
- Current Deals: Prices for SSDs can fluctuate. Always check various retailers like Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy, etc., for current sales and promotions. Sometimes bundle deals or seasonal discounts can significantly lower the effective price.
Conclusion
Upgrading to a Samsung 500GB SSD is one of the smartest investments you can make for your computer’s performance. Whether you opt for the widely compatible and reliable 870 EVO, the blazing-fast 980 or 970 EVO Plus NVMe drives, or a convenient and robust T7 Portable SSD, you’re choosing a product from a world leader in flash memory.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options and find the best price for Samsung 500GB SSD that perfectly fits your budget and technical requirements. Remember to consider your system’s compatibility and your specific usage needs to make the best decision. Happy upgrading!
FAQ Section
Q1: What’s the main difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A1: SATA SSDs connect via the SATA interface and offer speeds up to around 550 MB/s, limited by the interface. NVMe SSDs, on the other hand, connect directly to the motherboard via the PCIe interface, allowing for much higher speeds, often several thousand MB/s. NVMe drives are significantly faster but require an M.2 NVMe slot.
Q2: Why should I choose a Samsung SSD over other brands?
A2: Samsung is consistently ranked as one of the top manufacturers of flash memory and SSDs. They produce almost all components in-house, from the NAND flash to the controller and firmware, ensuring high quality, reliability, and optimized performance. Their Magician software also adds significant value for drive management.
Q3: Is a 500GB SSD enough storage for my needs?
A3: For many users, 500GB is a good balance. It’s enough for the operating system, essential software, and a good selection of games or media files. If you store a lot of large files (e.g., 4K videos, extensive game libraries), you might consider a 1TB SSD or supplement your 500GB SSD with a traditional hard drive for mass storage.
Q4: Can I install a Samsung SSD in my old laptop?
A4: Most older laptops use 2.5-inch SATA hard drives. If yours does, you can almost certainly upgrade to a 2.5-inch SATA SSD like the Samsung 870 EVO. For M.2 SATA or NVMe drives, your laptop needs a compatible M.2 slot. Always check your laptop’s specifications or manual first.
Q5: What is “TBW” and why is it important for an SSD?
A5: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance. It indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the drive before it might start to experience reliability issues. A higher TBW means the drive is rated to last longer under heavy write workloads, giving you more peace of mind.
Q6: What is Samsung Magician software and how does it help?
A6: Samsung Magician is a proprietary software utility that allows you to manage and optimize your Samsung SSD. It provides features like drive health monitoring, performance benchmarking, firmware updates, secure erase functionality, and performance optimization modes, helping you maintain your drive’s speed and longevity.
Q7: Are portable SSDs as fast as internal SSDs?
A7: Portable SSDs like the Samsung T7 are incredibly fast compared to external hard drives. They use internal NVMe technology and high-speed USB interfaces (like USB 3.2 Gen 2) to achieve rapid transfer speeds. While they might not reach the absolute maximum speeds of internal PCIe Gen 4 or Gen 5 NVMe drives, they are more than fast enough for most external storage needs, including 4K video editing on the go.