Are you on the hunt for a blazing-fast, reliable 500GB SSD that won’t break the bank? Finding the sweet spot between performance and affordability, especially if you’re targeting a specific brand like Sabrent and a budget of around $50, can feel like a quest! While a premium Sabrent best 500GB SSD for $50 might require a keen eye for sales or a slight budget stretch, plenty of fantastic 500GB solid-state drives offer incredible value and speed for your laptop, desktop, or even gaming console.
A 500GB SSD is often the perfect balance for most users – enough space for your operating system, essential applications, and a decent library of games or media, all while enjoying significantly faster boot times and application loading compared to traditional hard drives. Whether you’re upgrading an old system, building a new one on a budget, or looking for portable storage, a 500GB drive is an excellent choice.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you 10 top-tier 500GB SSDs that deliver on performance, reliability, and value. While not every option will hit the exact $50 mark, they represent some of the best choices available, including a standout from Sabrent, making your decision much easier. Let’s dive in!
1. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
The Crucial P310 500GB SSD is a fantastic entry point into the world of PCIe Gen4 NVMe performance without demanding a premium price tag. It’s designed for those who want a significant upgrade over older SATA drives or even Gen3 NVMe, offering impressive speeds for everyday tasks, gaming, and content creation. This drive is all about giving you snappy performance where it counts, making your system feel incredibly responsive.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 6,600 MB/s read and 5,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 500GB SSD: Ideal for games, apps, and media.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles (backward compatible with PCIe Gen3).
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3, improving boot times and app loading.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliability.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for a Gen4 entry-level drive.
- Good value for the speed offered.
- Reliable Micron components.
- Wide compatibility.
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Cons:
- Might not hit the absolute peak speeds of high-end Gen4 drives.
- Price might slightly exceed $50, but it’s often close during sales.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the P310 for its noticeable speed boost and ease of installation. Many consider it a superb upgrade for older systems, highlighting its solid performance-to-price ratio for general use and casual gaming.
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2. WD_BLACK SN7100 500GB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
When it comes to gaming, WD_BLACK is a name that resonates with enthusiasts, and the SN7100 500GB NVMe SSD doesn’t disappoint. While the listed speeds are for 1-2TB models, even the 500GB version offers incredible performance, designed for serious on-the-go gamers who demand quick load times and smooth gameplay. It’s built with power efficiency in mind, making it a great fit for laptops and handheld gaming devices where battery life matters.
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Key Features:
- HIGH-OCTANE GAMING: Experience speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- PURPOSE-BUILT: PCIe Gen4 interface and SANDISK’s next generation TLC 3D NAND.
- More Space: Available in multiple capacities, including 500GB for essential game storage.
- More Power Efficiency: Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard: Optimize performance with downloadable software (Windows only).
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds for gaming.
- Energy-efficient design.
- Reliable Sandisk technology.
- Excellent choice for gaming laptops.
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Cons:
- Typically priced above $50 for the 500GB variant.
- Dashboard software is Windows-only.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently rave about the SN7100’s ability to dramatically cut down loading screens and improve overall system responsiveness. Its reliability and sustained performance during intense gaming sessions are frequently highlighted as major positives.
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3. SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State
The Samsung 870 EVO 500GB SATA SSD is an undeniable classic and a benchmark for SATA performance. If your system doesn’t support NVMe (or you need a 2.5-inch form factor), this drive is the absolute best you can get in the SATA category. It combines Samsung’s legendary reliability with excellent performance, making it a versatile choice for everything from everyday computing to more demanding tasks like 8K video processing.
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Key Features:
- THE SSD ALL-STAR: Indisputable performance, reliability, and compatibility.
- EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Maximizes SATA interface limits with 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
- INDUSTRY-DEFINING RELIABILITY: Up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty.
- MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: Tested for major host systems, including NAS.
- UPGRADE WITH EASE: Simple 2.5-inch SATA form factor installation and migration software.
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Easily manage your drive, monitor health, and enhance performance.
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Pros:
- Top-tier SATA performance.
- Unmatched reliability and endurance.
- Broad compatibility with older systems.
- Excellent software suite.
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives (inherent to SATA technology).
- Might be slightly above $50, but offers phenomenal value for a SATA drive.
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User Impressions: The 870 EVO is a fan favorite, praised for its rock-solid performance and longevity. Users often note how it breathes new life into older laptops and desktops, providing a noticeable speed increase that makes daily tasks much more enjoyable.
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4. WD Blue SN5100 500GB NVMe SSD – M.2 2280, PCIe
The WD Blue SN5100 500GB NVMe SSD is a fantastic choice for those looking to speed up their projects and general workflow without overspending. Built with PCIe Gen 4.0 speeds, it offers a significant boost over previous generations, making quick work of large file transfers and improving overall system responsiveness. It’s an excellent balance of performance and affordability for everyday users and content creators.
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Key Features:
- SPEED UP PROJECTS: Accelerate workflow with PCIe Gen 4.0 speeds up to 7,100 MB/s (1-2TB models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE: Capacities up to 2TB on M.2 2280 with Sandisk 3D CBA NAND technology.
- WORK FASTER: Copy large files in blistering speeds with Sandisk nCache 4.0 technology.
- CREATE CONFIDENTLY: Covered with Sandisk’s 5-year limited warranty.
- ACRONIS TRUE IMAGE DOWNLOAD: Data migration software included.
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Pros:
- Strong PCIe Gen 4 performance.
- Excellent for productivity and creative tasks.
- Reliable Sandisk components and warranty.
- Includes data migration software.
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Cons:
- Max speeds are typically for higher capacities.
- Could be slightly above the $50 budget.
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User Impressions: Users find the SN5100 a reliable and speedy upgrade, particularly noting its effectiveness in accelerating tasks like video editing and large file transfers. Its ease of installation and the included cloning software are also frequently appreciated.
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5. SABRENT Rocket 4 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
Ah, the Sabrent Rocket 4! While this listing is for a powerful 2TB model, the Sabrent Rocket series is renowned for its exceptional performance, making it a prime candidate if you’re seeking a Sabrent best 500GB SSD for $50 (or slightly more, during sales). The Rocket 4 delivers next-gen PCIe 4.0 speeds, perfect for hardcore gamers, professional content creators, and anyone who demands the absolute fastest storage. The 500GB version of this drive would offer similar top-tier performance in a smaller capacity.
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Key Features:
- Next-Gen Gen4 Performance: Reach up to 7450MB/s read and 6400MB/s write speeds with PCIe 4.0 NVMe.
- High IOPS, Low Heat: Up to 1000K/950K random IOPS with minimal thermal output.
- Universal Compatibility: Compatible with desktops, laptops, and PS5 (single-sided M.2 2280 design).
- Power for Pros and Gamers: Fast, reliable storage for intensive applications.
- Sabrent Quality and Support: Built with premium components and broad OS support.
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Pros:
- Top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds.
- Excellent for demanding applications and gaming.
- Good thermal management.
- Broad compatibility, including PS5.
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Cons:
- The 2TB model listed is significantly above a $50 budget.
- A 500GB Rocket 4 might still be above $50, but offers incredible performance for the price point.
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User Impressions: Sabrent Rocket drives are highly regarded for their raw speed and reliability. Users often highlight the noticeable difference in game load times and file transfers, praising their robust build quality and consistent performance even under heavy loads.
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6. Seagate Barracuda Q5 500GB Internal SSD – M.2 NVMe PCIe
The Seagate Barracuda Q5 500GB internal SSD offers a compelling entry into the NVMe world, providing speeds significantly faster than traditional SATA drives at a very competitive price point. It’s an excellent choice for upgrading an older PC or for a budget-conscious new build where you want to maximize performance without breaking the bank. The slim M.2 2280 form factor ensures easy installation in most modern motherboards.
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Key Features:
- FAST: NVMe SSD with speeds up to 2.5x faster than SATA SSDs; sequential read/write speeds up to 2400/1800 MB/s.
- RESPONSIVE: Upgrade your PC for more efficient downloads, installs, and multitasking.
- VERSATILE: Slim M.2 2280 form factor for easy upgrades.
- Free Seagate DiscWizard software tool for data migration.
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Pros:
- Great value for an NVMe drive.
- Noticeably faster than SATA SSDs.
- Easy to install.
- Includes free cloning software.
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Cons:
- Gen3 NVMe, so not as fast as Gen4 drives.
- Performance is good, but not top-tier compared to premium NVMe.
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User Impressions: Many users find the Barracuda Q5 to be a perfect budget-friendly upgrade, praising its straightforward installation and the immediate performance boost it provides for everyday computing and light gaming. The included migration tool is also a big plus.
See it on Amazon here
7. SSK Portable SSD 500GB External Solid State Drives
For those who need speed on the go, the SSK Portable SSD 500GB is a fantastic external drive. It delivers blazing-fast 10Gbps transfer speeds, making it ideal for large file transfers, external gaming libraries, or even 4K ProRes video capture directly from your iPhone. Its compact, lightweight, and durable design, combined with excellent thermal management, makes it a reliable companion for professionals and casual users alike.
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Key Features:
- 1050 MB/s Speed: Instantly access files with blazing-fast 10Gbps read/write speeds.
- Data Security: S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for consistent performance and extended lifespan.
- USB-C & USB-A Cable: Rapid USB 3.2 Gen2 connectivity for seamless cross-platform file transfers.
- Always Fast: No slowdowns during large file transfers (with SLC caching).
- For iPhone 4K ProRes: Supports 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture with low power consumption.
- Less Heat: 2mm thick aluminum alloy case for superior heat dissipation.
- Powerful Portability: Weighs just 36.6g with a compact dimension.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast external drive.
- Highly portable and durable.
- Excellent heat dissipation.
- Versatile connectivity (USB-C and USB-A).
- Great for iPhone users for video recording.
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Cons:
- External drives are typically more expensive per GB than internal ones.
- Display capacity differences on Windows can be confusing.
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User Impressions: Users love the SSK Portable SSD for its incredible speed and portability. It’s a favorite among photographers and videographers who need to offload large files quickly, and iPhone users praise its seamless integration for ProRes video recording.
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8. BUFFALO External SSD 500GB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5
The BUFFALO External SSD 500GB is a compact and reliable solution for expanding your storage, especially if you’re a console gamer. Fully compatible with PS4 and PS5, it helps save space and loading time for your game data. Its shock-resistant, rugged design means you can carry your data with confidence, making it an ideal on-the-go accessory for professional backups or personal entertainment.
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Key Features:
- BEST VALUE SSD: Compact and reliable, compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs.
- IDEAL ON-THE-GO ACCESSORY: Quickly copy large data, great for photos, videos, docs, and more.
- FAST SPEEDS AND MULTI-TASKING: Faster than HDD, enabling simultaneous intensive tasks.
- COMPACT, DURABLE, & RELIABLE: Shock-resistant, rugged design provides drop protection.
- USB 3.2 CONNECTIVITY & 3-YEAR WARRANTY: Supports USB-C / USB-A for easy connection.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for an external SSD.
- Durable, shock-resistant design.
- Wide compatibility, especially for gaming consoles.
- Good warranty period.
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Cons:
- Speeds are good but not as fast as some NVMe-based external drives.
- May not hit the $50 mark for 500GB directly but offers great value close to it.
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User Impressions: Gamers especially appreciate the Buffalo SSD for its ease of use with consoles and the noticeable improvement in game loading times. Its robust build and portability also get high marks from users who frequently travel with their data.
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9. SK hynix Platinum P41 500GB SSD PCIe NVMe Gen4 M.2
The SK hynix Platinum P41 500GB SSD is a powerhouse of performance, delivering top-tier Gen4 NVMe speeds that rival the best in the market. With read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s, it’s perfect for high-end gaming, intensive content creation, and professional workstations. SK hynix, a global leader in memory, brings its expertise to this SSD, offering superior reliability, power efficiency, and a robust 5-year warranty.
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Key Features:
- Top-tier performance: Read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 6,500 MB/s with HYPERWRITE cache.
- Pioneering power efficiency: Keeps your system running smoother with next-tier power efficiency.
- Gaming immersion: Compatible with PS5 for an enhanced gaming experience.
- 5-year warranty, superior reliability and stability: Tested for 1,000 hours of HTOL with 1.5 million hours MTBF.
- Premium SSD powered by a global top-tier memory manufacturer.
- Easy installation and includes Macrium cloning software.
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Pros:
- Among the fastest Gen4 NVMe SSDs available.
- Excellent power efficiency.
- Highly reliable with a long warranty.
- Includes cloning software.
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Cons:
- Premium performance means it will be significantly above the $50 budget.
- Might be overkill for casual users.
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User Impressions: Reviewers and enthusiasts consistently rank the P41 among the best NVMe drives for its incredible speed, low temperatures, and impressive power efficiency. It’s a favorite for high-performance builds and serious gamers looking for the absolute best.
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10. SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s
The SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD is built for adventure. Delivering NVMe solid-state performance in a rugged, portable package, it’s designed to withstand drops, dust, and water (IP65 rated). Whether you’re a photographer in the field, a traveler, or just someone who needs reliable, fast storage on the go, its compact size, integrated carabiner loop, and password protection make it an ideal choice for securing and accessing your important files anywhere.
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Key Features:
- NVMe solid state performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for security.
- Password protection featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management.
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Pros:
- Extremely durable and rugged.
- Fast NVMe-level portable speeds.
- Excellent data protection features.
- Highly portable and secure.
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Cons:
- External drives are generally more expensive per GB than internal options.
- Likely to be above the $50 price point, but its durability justifies the cost.
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User Impressions: This SSD is a go-to for anyone needing rugged, fast external storage. Users particularly love its durability and compact design, making it perfect for travel and outdoor use. The encryption feature also provides peace of mind for sensitive data.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is it really possible to get a high-quality 500GB SSD for $50?
A1: While a premium Gen4 NVMe SSD, especially from brands like Sabrent, might typically cost a bit more than $50, it is absolutely possible to find excellent quality 500GB SSDs (both SATA and entry-level NVMe) for around or just slightly above this price point, particularly during sales events. Keep an eye out for deals!
Q2: What’s the main difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs?
A2: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs connect via the PCIe interface, offering significantly faster speeds (thousands of MB/s) ideal for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and large file transfers. SATA SSDs use the older SATA interface, with speeds capped around 500-600 MB/s, which is still much faster than traditional HDDs and perfectly adequate for general computing.
Q3: Why choose a 500GB SSD over 250GB or 1TB?
A3: A 500GB SSD strikes a great balance between capacity and cost. 250GB can quickly fill up with an OS and a few large applications, while 1TB or more can be overkill (and more expensive) if you don’t need vast amounts of storage. 500GB is often enough for an OS, essential software, and a decent library of games or media for most users.
Q4: Are external 500GB SSDs a good alternative to internal ones?
A4: Yes, external 500GB SSDs are fantastic for portability, backups, and expanding storage on devices like laptops, consoles, or even smartphones where internal upgrades aren’t possible. They’re typically plug-and-play and offer robust performance, though they usually cost more per gigabyte than internal drives.
Q5: What are the key things to look for when buying a 500GB SSD?
A5: Consider its interface (NVMe M.2 for speed, SATA 2.5″ for compatibility), read/write speeds (higher is better for performance), reliability (look for TBW and warranty), form factor (M.2 2280 for most NVMe, 2.5″ for SATA), and of course, your budget.
Q6: How does Sabrent compare to other SSD brands like Samsung or WD?
A6: Sabrent has quickly become a highly respected brand, especially for its high-performance NVMe drives like the Rocket series, which often compete directly with premium offerings from Samsung (like the 990 Pro) and WD_BLACK (like the SN850X) in terms of raw speed and value. Sabrent is known for offering excellent performance often at a slightly more aggressive price point, making a Sabrent best 500GB SSD for $50 an attractive goal for many users.
Q7: Can I use an NVMe M.2 SSD in any computer?
A7: No. Your computer’s motherboard needs to have an M.2 slot that supports NVMe SSDs, typically a PCIe Gen3 or Gen4 slot. Older motherboards or laptops might only have SATA M.2 slots, or no M.2 slots at all, in which case a 2.5-inch SATA SSD would be your option. Always check your device’s specifications before purchasing.
Conclusion
Finding the Sabrent best 500GB SSD for $50 can be a challenge, but as we’ve seen, there are numerous high-quality 500GB SSDs available that offer exceptional value, speed, and reliability. While the Sabrent Rocket 4 is a top-tier performer (and its 500GB variant would be a phenomenal choice if your budget can stretch a little), the other drives on this list from brands like Crucial, Samsung, WD, and SanDisk also present compelling options depending on your specific needs and system compatibility.
Ultimately, the “best” SSD for you depends on your priorities: blazing-fast NVMe speeds for gaming, rock-solid SATA reliability for everyday use, or rugged portability for life on the go. Whichever you choose, upgrading to a 500GB SSD is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your computer’s performance!