Are you tired of staring at loading screens while your friends are already deep into the action? In the fast-paced world of PC gaming, having a top-tier system isn’t just about a powerful CPU or a beastly graphics card. The storage solution you pick plays a monumental role in overall game performance, boot times, and even how quickly your levels load. If you’re looking to truly elevate your gaming experience, investing in the best internal SSD for gaming is a total game-changer.
Gone are the days when traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) were enough. Modern games demand rapid data access, and that’s precisely where Solid State Drives (SSDs) shine. They slash load times, make game installations snappier, and ensure smoother gameplay by quickly fetching textures and assets. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one?
Fear not, fellow gamers! We’ve dived deep into the world of high-speed storage to bring you a comprehensive list of the best internal SSD for gaming drives available today. We’ll break down their features, pros, cons, and what makes each of them stand out. Let’s get your rig up to speed!
Our Top Picks for the Best Internal SSD for Gaming
1. WD_BLACK 1TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
The WD_BLACK SN7100 is built for gamers who demand a serious performance boost without breaking the bank. This PCIe Gen4 drive offers blistering speeds that significantly cut down on load times, getting you into the action faster. With its focus on power efficiency and high endurance, it’s a fantastic choice for both desktop and portable gaming setups, ensuring your drive keeps up with your longest sessions.
- Key Features:
- Speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- Up to 35% faster performance than previous drives.
- PCIe Gen4 interface and TLC 3D NAND.
- Capacities up to 4TB available.
- Designed for laptops and handheld gaming devices with high power efficiency.
- Up to 2,400TBW endurance.
- Pros:
- Extremely fast read/write speeds for rapid loading.
- Excellent power efficiency, great for laptops.
- High endurance rating for long-term reliability.
- PCIe Gen4 benefits for future-proofing.
- Cons:
- May require a compatible motherboard to utilize full PCIe Gen4 speeds.
- No mention of an included heatsink for sustained peak performance.
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise the SN7100 for its noticeable speed improvement in games and overall system responsiveness. Many appreciate its reliability and efficiency, making it a solid upgrade.
- See it on Amazon here
2. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
If you’re looking for the absolute pinnacle of gaming performance, the WD_BLACK SN850X is your weapon of choice. This drive is engineered to transform your PC or workstation, offering insane speeds and features like Game Mode 2.0 to optimize your gaming sessions. With optional heatsink versions and massive capacities, it’s designed to keep your system cool and stocked with all your favorite titles.
- Key Features:
- Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- Capacities up to 8TB built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
- Optional heatsink version available for all capacities.
- Downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard for monitoring, RGB customization (heatsink versions), and Game Mode 2.0.
- Future-forward features: Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
- Pros:
- Among the fastest NVMe SSDs available.
- Massive storage capacities for huge game libraries.
- Optional heatsink ensures sustained performance during intense gaming.
- Advanced features like Game Mode 2.0 truly optimize for gaming.
- Cons:
- Premium price point due to its top-tier performance.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows-only.
- User Impressions: Gamers rave about the SN850X’s unmatched speed and how it drastically reduces load times. The optional heatsink is a highly valued feature for those with demanding setups, ensuring peak performance.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State…
While NVMe drives steal the spotlight, the Samsung 870 EVO proves that SATA SSDs are still incredibly relevant, especially for older systems or those needing a reliable, cost-effective upgrade. As an “SSD All-Star,” it delivers indisputable performance and industry-defining reliability, making it a fantastic choice for general computing and gaming where SATA speeds are sufficient. It’s also incredibly easy to upgrade!
- Key Features:
- Maximizes SATA interface limit to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
- Accelerates write speeds with a larger variable buffer.
- Designed for heavy workloads of high-end PCs, workstations, and NAS.
- Up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty.
- Broad compatibility with major host systems and applications.
- Easy 2.5-inch SATA form factor for simple upgrades.
- Samsung Magician software for drive management.
- Pros:
- Excellent performance within the SATA interface limits.
- Industry-leading reliability and endurance.
- Highly compatible with a wide range of devices.
- Simple installation process.
- More affordable than NVMe counterparts.
- Cons:
- Slower than NVMe SSDs (due to SATA interface limitations).
- Not ideal for cutting-edge gaming PCs requiring PCIe Gen4 speeds.
- User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 870 EVO for its rock-solid reliability, ease of installation, and significant speed upgrade over traditional hard drives. It’s often recommended as a robust and dependable primary drive.
- See it on Amazon here
4. WD_BLACK 1TB SN770 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State…
The WD_BLACK SN770 strikes a sweet spot between performance and value, making it another contender for the best internal SSD for gaming. It offers blazing fast PCIe Gen4 speeds that zoom past load times, minimize stutter, and provide smoother gameplay. With support for DirectStorage and generous capacities, it’s a smart choice for gamers looking for a noticeable performance boost without splurging on the absolute top-tier models.
- Key Features:
- Blazing speeds of up to 5,150MB/s read and 4,900MB/s write (1TB and 2TB models).
- PCIe Gen4 interface (backwards-compatible with PCIe Gen3).
- Capacities up to 2TB for games and content.
- Supports future games developed for Microsoft’s DirectStorage technology.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard for health monitoring and gaming mode optimization.
- Pros:
- Excellent speed-to-price ratio for a PCIe Gen4 drive.
- Supports DirectStorage for future game optimization.
- Good capacities available for large game libraries.
- Trusted brand reliability.
- Cons:
- Not as fast as the high-end PCIe Gen4 drives like the SN850X or Samsung 990 Pro.
- No included heatsink.
- User Impressions: Many gamers find the SN770 to be an exceptional value, noting a dramatic improvement in game load times and overall system responsiveness. Its balance of speed and affordability makes it a popular choice for upgrades.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal…
The Samsung 990 PRO is a powerhouse, delivering a huge speed boost that brings it right up to the maximum performance of the PCIe 4.0 interface. This drive is a champion maker, offering incredible random performance that translates to faster loads for demanding games, including those on PS5 and DirectStorage PC titles. With breakthrough power efficiency and smart thermal control, it’s built for the most intense gaming sessions.
- Key Features:
- Random read/write speeds up to 1400K/1550K IOPS.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s.
- Up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO.
- Samsung’s nickel-coated controller for effective thermal control.
- Slim size, perfect for desktops, laptops, and PS5.
- Up to 65% improvement in random performance for ultimate gaming.
- Samsung Magician software for optimization.
- Pros:
- Near-max PCIe 4.0 performance, one of the fastest drives available.
- Excellent power efficiency.
- Advanced thermal control ensures sustained high performance.
- Ideal for PS5 and DirectStorage PC games.
- Samsung’s renowned reliability and software support.
- Cons:
- Premium price tag.
- May require a heatsink for prolonged heavy use, although the controller helps.
- User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the 990 PRO’s speed, noting significant reductions in loading screens and a smoother overall gaming experience. Its compatibility with PS5 is a big plus for console gamers.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Crucial T500 4TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD
The Crucial T500 is a formidable Gen4 NVMe SSD, offering lightning-fast speeds that promise to load games up to 16% faster and provide quicker texture renders. Beyond gaming, it excels in content creation, offering up to 42% faster performance in relevant applications. Its compatibility with Microsoft DirectStorage makes it a forward-thinking choice for any serious gamer or professional.
- Key Features:
- Sequential reads/writes up to 7,000/6,900MB/s.
- Random read/writes up to 1.05M/1.05M IOPs.
- Easy M.2 slot installation for laptops, desktops, or workstations.
- Loads games up to 16% faster with Microsoft DirectStorage.
- Up to 42% faster performance in content creation apps.
- Includes one month of Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan.
- Pros:
- Very high speeds for both gaming and professional workloads.
- Excellent random performance.
- DirectStorage compatibility for next-gen gaming.
- Value-added Adobe Creative Cloud offer.
- Cons:
- No mention of an included heatsink for the 4TB model, which might be beneficial for sustained heavy use.
- Speeds are slightly lower than the very top-tier PCIe 4.0 drives.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the T500’s balanced performance, excelling in both gaming and professional tasks. The noticeable speed increase and DirectStorage support are frequently highlighted benefits.
- See it on Amazon here
7. fanxiang S101 SATA SSD 1TB, Internal State Drive SATA III…
The fanxiang S101 is a solid and affordable option for anyone looking to speed up an older computer or add reliable storage without needing the absolute fastest speeds. This 2.5-inch SATA III SSD offers decent read/write speeds that are a massive improvement over traditional HDDs. With its 3D NAND TLC chips, it promises long-lasting durability, making it a dependable choice for general use and gaming on a budget.
- Key Features:
- Read and write speeds of 550MB/s.
- Boots up at least 50% faster compared to HDDs.
- Incorporates 3D NAND TLC chips for longer lifespan.
- Extensive compatibility with desktops, laptops, and various operating systems.
- 3 years of quality assurance.
- Pros:
- Significant speed upgrade over traditional hard drives.
- Very budget-friendly.
- Wide compatibility with older and newer systems.
- Good durability with TLC NAND.
- Cons:
- Limited by SATA III speeds, much slower than NVMe drives.
- Not suitable for high-end gaming rigs demanding top performance.
- User Impressions: Users praise the S101 as a cost-effective upgrade for older laptops and desktops, noting the substantial improvement in boot times and application loading. It’s seen as a reliable and practical choice for everyday computing and casual gaming.
- See it on Amazon here
8. fanxiang 1TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD for PS5 with…
The fanxiang S880ER is specifically designed with gamers in mind, particularly those with a PS5 or looking to leverage DirectStorage on PC. This PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD boasts extreme performance with sequential speeds up to 7100/5300 MB/s and features a unique heatsink design for efficient thermal control. It’s engineered to deliver an extraordinary gaming experience, ensuring consistent high performance even during extended sessions.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller, supports NVMe 2.0 technology.
- Sequential read/write speeds of up to 7100/5300 MB/s.
- Includes an integrated heatsink for PS5 and PC.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage.
- High-quality 3D NAND flash memory for fast boot times and application loading.
- Efficient thermal control with unique heatsink design.
- 5-year service and lifetime technical support.
- Pros:
- High-speed PCIe Gen4 performance.
- Integrated heatsink is excellent for thermal management and PS5 compatibility.
- Specifically optimized for gaming and DirectStorage.
- Long warranty and technical support.
- Cons:
- Write speeds are decent but not as high as some top-tier PCIe 4.0 competitors.
- A newer brand compared to industry giants, though offers a good warranty.
- User Impressions: PS5 owners especially appreciate this drive for its seamless compatibility and included heatsink, reporting significantly faster game loading. PC users also note its strong performance and stable temperatures during gaming.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Samsung 980 SSD 1TB PCle 3.0×4, NVMe M.2 2280, Internal…
For those looking to upgrade an older system or build a mid-range gaming PC, the Samsung 980 SSD is a smart choice. This PCIe 3.0 NVMe drive offers impressive speeds that are a massive leap over SATA SSDs, delivering a seamless workflow and outstanding performance for gaming and heavy graphics. With Samsung’s optimized endurance and full power mode, it’s built for the long run and consistent high performance.
- Key Features:
- PCIe 3.0×4 NVMe 1.4 M.2 2280 interface.
- 3,500MB/s sequential reads, 3,000MB/s sequential writes.
- Full Power Mode for continuous and consistent high performance.
- Up to 600 TBW endurance for reliability.
- AES 256-bit Full Disk Encryption.
- Pros:
- Excellent performance for a PCIe 3.0 drive.
- More affordable than PCIe 4.0 options.
- Full Power Mode ensures consistent speed.
- High endurance and data security features.
- Samsung’s trusted reliability.
- Cons:
- Slower than newer PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives.
- No DRAM cache (though Samsung’s Host Memory Buffer (HMB) tech compensates well).
- User Impressions: Users frequently commend the Samsung 980 for providing a significant performance upgrade from SATA drives at a very reasonable price. It’s highly rated for its reliability and consistent speeds, making it a favorite for general use and gaming.
- See it on Amazon here
10. Addlink S70 Lite 512GB Ultra Durability Gaming SSD Maximum…
The Addlink S70 Lite is a compact yet durable gaming SSD, perfect for those needing a cost-effective upgrade for their PC builds or laptops. With its PCIe Gen3x4 NVMe 1.3 interface, it offers sequential read speeds up to 3000 MB/s, which is a considerable boost for faster loading times and overall system responsiveness. Its enhanced DRAM-less architecture with HMB ensures optimized performance while maintaining ultra-low power consumption, making it ideal for portable devices.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen3x4 NVMe 1.3 interface with 3D TLC NAND.
- Sequential Read Speeds Up To 3000 MB/s.
- Enhanced DRAM-Less Architecture with HMB (Host Memory Buffer).
- Supports SLC Cache for optimized performance.
- Enables Ultra-Low Power Consumption for Laptops & PCs.
- Compatible with Intel (Raptor Lake Gen 13 Core i9/i7/i5/i3) and AMD Ryzen (7000/5000/3000) CPUs.
- Compatible with NVIDIA (GeForce RTX 4090) GPUs.
- Pros:
- Good speed for a PCIe 3.0 drive.
- Excellent power efficiency, making it great for laptops.
- Very durable with TLC NAND.
- Affordable price point.
- Broad CPU and GPU compatibility.
- Cons:
- Slower than PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives.
- Lower capacity options might be limited for large game libraries.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the Addlink S70 Lite for its solid performance at its price point, particularly highlighting its energy efficiency for laptop users. It’s seen as a reliable and budget-friendly way to get into NVMe speeds.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs for gaming?
A1: The biggest difference is speed. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs connect directly to your motherboard via the PCIe interface, offering significantly faster data transfer rates (thousands of MB/s) compared to SATA (Serial ATA) SSDs, which are limited to around 550 MB/s. For gaming, NVMe drives lead to much faster game load times and smoother asset streaming, especially in modern, graphically intensive titles.
Q2: Do I really need a heatsink for my NVMe SSD?
A2: For most casual use, a heatsink isn’t strictly necessary. However, for intense, prolonged gaming sessions or heavy data transfers, NVMe SSDs can get hot and potentially “throttle” their performance to prevent overheating. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, ensuring your SSD maintains peak performance, especially if it’s a high-speed PCIe Gen4 model or installed in a tightly packed PC case. Some SSDs come with one built-in, or you can purchase one separately.
Q3: How much storage capacity do I need for gaming?
A3: This really depends on your gaming habits.
– 500GB: Good for a few modern games or many older ones. You’ll likely need to manage space carefully.
– 1TB: A popular sweet spot. Enough for a decent library of AAA titles and your OS.
– 2TB+: Ideal for serious gamers with large collections, especially with game sizes consistently growing. It means less time spent uninstalling and reinstalling games.
Q4: Is PCIe Gen4 worth the upgrade over PCIe Gen3 for gaming?
A4: Yes, if your motherboard supports it! PCIe Gen4 SSDs offer double the theoretical bandwidth of Gen3, translating to significantly faster read/write speeds. While the real-world gaming difference isn’t always double, it does lead to noticeably quicker load times, especially with upcoming technologies like Microsoft DirectStorage which leverages these higher speeds. For new builds, a Gen4 NVMe is highly recommended if your budget and motherboard allow.
Q5: Can I install an internal SSD myself?
A5: Absolutely! Installing an internal SSD, especially an M.2 NVMe drive, is generally straightforward. You’ll need to locate the M.2 slot on your motherboard (check your motherboard manual for exact location), gently insert the drive, and secure it with a small screw. For 2.5-inch SATA SSDs, it’s similar to installing an HDD, connecting a SATA data cable and a SATA power cable. Many online tutorials can guide you through the process step-by-step.
Q6: What is DirectStorage and how does it benefit gaming?
A6: DirectStorage is a new API from Microsoft that allows games to load assets directly from the SSD to the graphics card, bypassing the CPU. This significantly reduces load times and improves overall game performance by reducing CPU overhead. For DirectStorage to work effectively, you need a fast NVMe SSD (preferably PCIe Gen4) and a compatible GPU.
Q7: How does an SSD improve my overall PC gaming experience beyond just load times?
A7: Beyond lightning-fast load times, an SSD enhances your gaming experience in several ways:
– Faster Boot Times: Your PC will start up in seconds.
– Quicker Application Launches: Games and other programs open almost instantly.
– Smoother Level Transitions: In-game areas can load more seamlessly as you move, reducing stutters.
– Reduced Texture Pop-In: High-resolution textures can be loaded faster, leading to a more consistent visual experience.
– Faster File Transfers: Moving large game files or recordings becomes a breeze.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Internal SSD for Gaming
Choosing the best internal SSD for gaming boils down to balancing performance, capacity, and your budget. For the absolute bleeding edge and future-proofing, a high-end PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive like the WD_BLACK SN850X or Samsung 990 PRO is unmatched. If you’re on a tighter budget but still want serious speed, options like the WD_BLACK SN770 or Samsung 980 offer excellent value. And don’t count out reliable SATA SSDs like the Samsung 870 EVO for older systems or secondary storage.
No matter which drive you pick from our list, an SSD upgrade is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your gaming rig. Say goodbye to frustrating load screens and hello to a smoother, faster, and more enjoyable gaming journey! Happy gaming!