Tired of agonizingly slow game load times and constantly running out of storage on your gaming laptop? You’re not alone. Modern games are massive, and internal storage, no matter how generous, can fill up surprisingly fast. That’s where an external SSD comes into play, transforming your gaming experience by offering blazing-fast access to your game library and crucial data. If you’re looking for a performance boost and expanded space, finding the Crucial best external SSD for gaming laptop is a game-changer.
Crucial, a brand synonymous with reliable memory and storage, offers a fantastic range of external SSDs that cater specifically to gamers’ needs. These portable powerhouses not only give you extra room for your ever-growing collection of AAA titles but also drastically cut down on those frustrating loading screens. We’ve meticulously reviewed ten top contenders, including a standout pick from Samsung, to help you make an informed decision and upgrade your gaming setup.
Why an External SSD is a Must-Have for Gaming Laptops
Let’s face it, gaming laptops often come with a primary SSD that, while fast, might not offer the gargantuan storage needed for today’s massive game files. An external solid-state drive bridges this gap perfectly. Here’s why it’s crucial:
- Lightning-Fast Load Times: Forget traditional hard drives. SSDs, especially NVMe-based ones, offer superior read and write speeds, meaning your games load in a flash.
- Portability: Take your entire game library with you, plug it into any compatible device, and you’re good to go. Perfect for LAN parties or playing on a friend’s setup.
- Performance Boost: While an external drive won’t magically give your laptop a better GPU, it significantly improves game loading, texture streaming, and overall responsiveness for installed games.
- Easy Expansion: It’s a simple plug-and-play solution for adding significant storage without opening up your laptop.
Ready to dive into our top picks for the Crucial best external SSD for gaming laptop? Let’s get started!
Product Reviews
1. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent entry point for casual gamers and everyday users needing reliable, fast external storage. Its compact design doesn’t compromise on durability or performance, making it a stellar choice for those who need to carry their games and files on the go without breaking the bank. With speeds significantly outperforming traditional HDDs, it’s a smart upgrade for improving game load times and overall data access.
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read/write speeds for fast data transfers.
- Built to Last: IP55 water/dust resistance and drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: 1TB of compact storage for games, media, and backups.
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Bonus Software: Includes three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and affordability.
- Very durable and portable design.
- Wide range of device compatibility.
- Good capacity for a starter gaming library.
- Cons:
- Not the absolute fastest compared to NVMe drives.
- Speeds might not satisfy hardcore competitive gamers.
User Impressions: Users love the X9’s solid build quality and how easy it is to set up and use across different devices. Many mention its reliable performance for backing up large files and noticeably speeding up game load times compared to their old external HDDs. It’s often praised as a great value for the features it offers.
2. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
If you found the 1TB Crucial X9 appealing but need more elbow room for your ever-growing game library, this 2TB version is your go-to. It offers the same reliable, speedy performance and rugged design as its smaller sibling but doubles the storage capacity. This makes it a fantastic choice for gamers who want ample space for multiple AAA titles and media without constant juggling, all while enjoying the peace of mind of its durable build.
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read/write speeds for fast data transfers.
- Built to Last: IP55 water/dust resistance and drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: 2TB of compact storage for games, media, and backups.
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Bonus Software: Includes three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity for extensive game collections.
- Excellent durability for travel and outdoor use.
- Plug-and-play simplicity with broad compatibility.
- Good performance for casual and mainstream gaming.
- Cons:
- Identical speed to the 1TB model, so not an upgrade in raw speed.
- May still feel slow to users accustomed to internal NVMe drives.
User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the perfect balance of capacity and portability with the 2TB X9. They appreciate its robust construction and consistent speed, making it ideal for storing a large number of games and important data for quick access. It’s often recommended for students and gamers who need reliable bulk storage on the move.
3. Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
Stepping up the game, the Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD is designed for those who demand serious speed and massive capacity. With read speeds up to 2,100MB/s, this matte blue drive delivers twice the performance of the X9 series, making it ideal for PC gamers, content creators, and students who handle very large files. Its enhanced ruggedness also ensures your precious data is safe, even in demanding environments, solidifying its place as a strong contender for the Crucial best external SSD for gaming laptop for high-end users.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for rapid data access.
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop-resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Massive 4TB capacity for extensive game libraries, 4K/8K videos, and large projects.
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Bonus Software: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds significantly reduce game load times.
- Superior durability with higher drop and water/dust resistance.
- Enormous 4TB storage is future-proof for most users.
- Perfect for performance-demanding tasks beyond just gaming.
- Cons:
- Higher price point due to increased speed and capacity.
- May require a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on your laptop to achieve maximum speeds.
User Impressions: Gamers and content creators alike rave about the X10’s incredible speed, noting a dramatic improvement in workflow and game loading. The robust build and ample storage are frequently highlighted as major selling points, offering peace of mind for those who travel or work in varying conditions. It’s often seen as a premium choice that delivers on its promises.
4. Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
For the ultimate hoarders of digital content and dedicated gamers, the Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD is an absolute behemoth. Offering the same lightning-fast 2,100MB/s speeds as its 4TB counterpart, this drive doubles down on storage, providing an astounding 8TB of space. It’s truly an “ultimate storage capacity” solution for those who want to carry an entire digital universe – from countless AAA games to vast media libraries – without ever having to delete anything. This is arguably the Crucial best external SSD for gaming laptop if capacity is your number one priority.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for rapid data access.
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop-resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Mind-blowing 8TB capacity for virtually limitless games, 4K/8K videos, and large projects.
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Bonus Software: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Unrivaled 8TB capacity – perfect for extensive digital libraries.
- Blazing-fast 2,100MB/s speeds for zero-compromise performance.
- Exceptional durability with high IP rating and drop resistance.
- Ideal for professional content creators and serious gamers.
- Cons:
- Premium price point, making it a significant investment.
- Max speed requires a compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port.
User Impressions: Users who invest in the 8TB X10 are consistently amazed by its sheer capacity, often stating they no longer worry about storage limits. The combination of its massive space and incredible speed makes it a favorite among professionals and gamers with huge game collections. Its robust build quality also receives high praise, ensuring data safety.
5. Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
Bringing the best of both worlds – ample storage and reliable speed – the Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD is a fantastic sweet spot for many gamers. You get the robust, travel-friendly design of the X9 series, along with dependable 1050MB/s transfer speeds, but with a generous 4TB capacity. This means you can comfortably house a substantial library of games, movies, and other large files without frequent data management, all within a durable and broadly compatible package.
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read/write speeds for efficient data handling.
- Built to Last: IP55 water/dust resistance and drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: Generous 4TB of compact storage for all your digital needs.
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Bonus Software: Includes three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent 4TB capacity for a large gaming library.
- Very durable and portable, perfect for active users.
- Strong compatibility across multiple platforms.
- More affordable than the X10 series for similar capacity.
- Cons:
- Speeds are good but not in the “ultra-fast” tier of NVMe drives.
- Might be overkill for users with smaller storage needs.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise the 4TB X9 for hitting the perfect balance between cost, capacity, and durability. It’s seen as a reliable workhorse for storing extensive game collections and multimedia, offering consistent performance and peace of mind thanks to its rugged construction. Many find it an ideal solution for expanding laptop storage without breaking the bank.
6. Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read
Designed with professional creators and demanding gamers in mind, the Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD elevates performance with not just ultra-fast read speeds (up to 2,100MB/s) but also impressive write speeds (up to 2,000MB/s). This level of sustained performance is critical for seamless workflows, whether you’re editing 4K/8K video or playing competitive games. Its enhanced features like a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection emphasize its professional-grade utility, making it a top contender for users who need maximum security and speed in a portable package.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds for seamless workflow.
- Built to Last: IP55 water/dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Compact 1TB SSD for high-resolution content and current projects.
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Bonus Software: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Exceptional read and write speeds, ideal for demanding applications.
- Professional-grade durability with added security features.
- Very compact and portable with an activity light for status.
- Excellent for high-resolution content creation and serious gaming.
- Cons:
- Premium price for 1TB capacity.
- May require USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for full speed potential.
User Impressions: Professional users and hardcore gamers laud the X10 Pro for its consistent high performance, particularly appreciating the balanced read/write speeds. The added security features and sturdy design make it a reliable choice for fieldwork or intensive gaming sessions. Many find it worth the investment for its robust capabilities.
7. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
The Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD hits a sweet spot for professional creators and gamers who prioritize high capacity with robust, dependable performance and enhanced security features. While its speeds (up to 1050MB/s read/write) are similar to the standard X9, the “Pro” designation brings added peace of mind with SSD password protection, a lanyard loop, and an activity light – features crucial for those who rely on their external drive for mission-critical tasks or sensitive data. With 4TB of space, it’s a powerhouse for storing massive game libraries and large creative projects.
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds for seamless workflow.
- Built to Last: IP55 water/dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Generous 4TB SSD for high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and current projects.
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Bonus Software: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent 4TB capacity combined with solid professional features.
- Enhanced security with SSD password protection.
- Durable and reliable for fieldwork or everyday heavy use.
- Good balance of speed and storage for demanding users.
- Cons:
- Speeds are not as fast as the X10 Pro series.
- Premium price compared to the standard X9 4TB model.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the X9 Pro’s blend of high capacity and professional-grade features. The added security and activity light are frequently mentioned as useful additions, making it a reliable choice for storing important data and large gaming libraries. It’s considered a solid investment for those needing robust and secure portable storage.
8. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Now, this one is a bit different! While primarily an internal NVMe SSD, the Crucial P310 1TB is a fantastic choice for serious gamers who might consider using an external NVMe enclosure (purchased separately) or who own compatible handheld gaming devices like the ROG Ally X or Lenovo Legion Go. It boasts impressive PCIe Gen4 performance, delivering up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds. This translates to incredibly fast game load times and system responsiveness, making it a powerful internal option that can extend its high-speed benefits to an external setup or specialized gaming portables. This is a powerful, high-performance option for those looking for the absolute best speed for gaming, even if it requires an extra step to make it “external” for a laptop, or if you’re upgrading a compatible handheld.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds for ultra-quick game load times and bootups.
- Spacious 1TB SSD: Ample space for AAA games, apps, and media.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles including ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun. Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation, improving performance for real-world tasks.
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Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance.
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Pros:
- Phenomenal speeds, far surpassing typical external USB SSDs.
- Ideal for internal upgrades or high-performance external enclosures.
- Specific compatibility with popular handheld gaming devices.
- Offers a noticeable boost for both gaming and general productivity.
- Cons:
- Not a standalone external SSD; requires an external enclosure for laptop use.
- 1TB might fill up quickly with very large game files.
User Impressions: Users who understand this is an internal drive for specific external uses praise its mind-boggling speed. It’s a popular upgrade for compatible handhelds, where users see dramatic improvements in loading times. Those who pair it with a quality external enclosure report desktop-level NVMe performance in a portable format.
9. SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive
The SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD stands out as a formidable competitor in the external storage arena, and it’s certainly a contender for the best external SSD for gaming laptop alongside Crucial’s offerings. Built with “makers” in mind, its PCIe NVMe technology delivers fast read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, making it incredibly efficient for game data, video editing, and large file transfers. Its robust aluminum unibody construction provides excellent shock resistance and fall protection, ensuring your valuable data is safe wherever your adventures take you. Plus, its wide compatibility extends to recording high-resolution videos directly from cameras and even the iPhone 15 Pro, making it a versatile powerhouse.
- MADE FOR THE MAKERS: Fast speeds and durable features for various creative and gaming endeavors.
- SHARE IDEAS IN A FLASH: PCIe NVMe technology with up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s read/write speeds.
- ALWAYS MAKE THE SAVE: Compact design with capacities up to 4TB (this model is 1TB).
- ADAPTS TO EVERY NEED: Extensive compatibility with PCs, mobile phones, cameras, and consoles.
- HI RESOLUTION VIDEO RECORDING: Supports 4K 60fps video recording directly, including iPhone 15 Pro Res.
- ALL FOR THE SHOT: Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet with solid aluminum unibody.
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WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: Performance and reliability from Samsung’s in-house produced components.
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for gaming and multimedia tasks.
- Superior durability with shock resistance and aluminum build.
- Outstanding compatibility, including direct video recording from devices.
- Trusted brand reputation for flash memory.
- Cons:
- 1TB capacity might be limiting for some gamers’ libraries.
- Speeds are great but not as fast as top-tier NVMe external drives.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Samsung T7 for its sleek, compact design and robust feel. Many highlight its reliable performance for transferring large files quickly and its excellent compatibility across different operating systems and devices. Gamers appreciate the noticeable reduction in loading times and the peace of mind from its durable construction.
10. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read
Rounding out our list is the Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD, a stellar choice for serious gamers and creative professionals who need substantial storage combined with top-tier performance. This drive mirrors the 1TB X10 Pro’s exceptional 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds, but doubles the capacity to a more generous 2TB. It’s built tough with IP55 resistance and includes professional features like a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection, ensuring your data is secure and accessible even in challenging conditions. For those who demand both speed and space, this is undoubtedly a strong contender for the Crucial best external SSD for gaming laptop.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow.
- Built to Last: IP55 water/dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Compact 2TB SSD for high-resolution content, 4K/8K videos, and current projects.
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Bonus Software: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Exceptional read and write speeds, ideal for intense gaming and professional work.
- Generous 2TB capacity for a solid game library and large files.
- Professional-grade durability with added security features.
- Excellent balance of speed, capacity, and portability.
- Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Full speed potential requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port.
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently laud the 2TB X10 Pro for its unparalleled speed and robust feature set. Gamers report drastically reduced load times, while creative professionals appreciate the fast write speeds for video editing. The combination of high capacity, durability, and security makes it a highly recommended choice for those who need top-tier portable storage.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in an External SSD for Gaming Laptops
Choosing the right external SSD isn’t just about speed; it’s about finding the perfect blend of features for your specific gaming needs. Here’s what to consider:
- Speed (Read/Write Speeds):
- 1050MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2): Great for most gamers, significantly faster than HDDs, and common for modern portable SSDs.
- 2000-2100MB/s+ (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 or Thunderbolt/USB4): For serious competitive gamers, content creators, or those with very large game files, these NVMe-based drives offer the fastest possible loading. Ensure your laptop has a compatible port (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports are less common but becoming more prevalent, especially on newer high-end gaming laptops).
- Capacity:
- 1TB: Good for a decent selection of games, especially if you’re rotating titles.
- 2TB-4TB: Ideal for most serious gamers who want to keep many AAA titles installed simultaneously without worrying about space.
- 8TB+: For the ultimate game library hoarder or professional use.
- Durability:
- Look for IP ratings (e.g., IP55 for dust/water resistance) and drop resistance. This is crucial if you plan to travel with your drive.
- Compatibility:
- Ensure it works with your operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux).
- Check for compatibility with gaming consoles (PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S) if you plan to use it across platforms.
- Most modern SSDs use USB-C, but check if an adapter for USB-A is included or needed for older ports.
- Form Factor:
- Compact and lightweight designs are best for portability.
- Security Features:
- Some “Pro” models offer hardware encryption or password protection, which is great for sensitive data.
- Price:
- Higher capacities and faster speeds naturally come with a higher price tag. Balance your budget with your performance and storage needs.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do external SSDs actually improve gaming performance on a laptop?
A1: Yes, absolutely! While an external SSD won’t boost your laptop’s GPU or CPU, it drastically reduces game loading times, texture pop-in, and level transitions compared to an internal HDD or a slower external drive. Playing games directly from a fast external SSD can make a noticeable difference in your overall gaming experience.
Q2: What’s the main difference between Crucial’s X9 and X10 series?
A2: The primary difference lies in speed and durability. The Crucial X9 series offers speeds up to 1050MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2) and IP55 resistance, making it great for casual use and everyday gaming. The Crucial X10 series, on the other hand, boasts speeds up to 2100MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2), higher IP65 dust/water resistance, and enhanced drop protection, catering to more demanding users and professionals.
Q3: Can I play games directly from an external SSD?
A3: Yes! That’s one of the biggest advantages. You can install your games directly onto the external SSD and launch them from there. For optimal performance, ensure your laptop’s USB port (preferably USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Gen 2×2) matches or exceeds the drive’s speed capabilities.
Q4: What capacity external SSD should I get for my gaming laptop?
A4: It depends on your game library size.
* 1TB: Good for a few AAA titles and smaller games.
* 2TB: Ideal for most gamers, allowing you to keep a substantial library installed.
* 4TB+: Recommended for gamers with extensive collections or those who also store large media files. Consider how many games you typically play and how often you download new ones.
Q5: Is an external SSD better than an external HDD for gaming?
A5: For gaming, an external SSD is hands down superior to an external HDD. SSDs offer significantly faster read/write speeds, leading to much quicker game load times and smoother gameplay. HDDs are cheaper per gigabyte but are slower and more susceptible to damage from drops due to their moving parts.
Q6: What is USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, and why does it matter for external SSDs?
A6: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 is a USB standard that offers up to 20Gbps (2,500MB/s) theoretical bandwidth, double that of USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps or 1,250MB/s). It matters because external SSDs like the Crucial X10 Pro can utilize this higher bandwidth to achieve their maximum advertised speeds of 2100MB/s. If your laptop only has older USB ports, your external SSD’s speed will be limited by the port’s capabilities.
Q7: Will using an external SSD drain my gaming laptop’s battery faster?
A7: An external SSD does draw power from your laptop’s USB port, which can have a minor impact on battery life. However, the power draw is generally low, especially compared to the power consumption of your laptop’s CPU and GPU during gaming. The impact on battery life is typically negligible for most users.
Conclusion
Finding the Crucial best external SSD for gaming laptop truly can revolutionize your portable gaming experience. No more agonizing over which game to uninstall to make space, and definitely no more staring blankly at loading screens. Whether you opt for the rugged reliability of the Crucial X9, the blistering speeds of the X10 Pro, or the versatile excellence of the Samsung T7, you’re making a smart investment in faster load times and expanded game storage. Pick the one that fits your budget, capacity needs, and speed demands, and get ready to elevate your gaming to the next level!