Are you tired of sluggish boot times and applications that drag their feet? Upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the most impactful ways to breathe new life into an aging computer or supercharge a new build. When you’re looking for that sweet spot of performance and affordability, the phrase “Crucial best 120gb ssd for the money” often pops up. While 120GB SSDs were once the go-to budget upgrade, today’s market offers incredible value across various capacities. The “best for the money” now often means looking slightly beyond that 120GB mark for even better cost-per-gigabyte, but don’t worry, we’ve still got excellent 120GB options in the mix!
In this article, we’re diving deep into some top contenders, including several from the renowned Crucial brand and other strong players, to help you find the absolute best value SSD for your needs. We’ll explore both internal drives for system upgrades and portable solutions for on-the-go storage. Let’s get your computer running like a dream!
Why an SSD is a Smart Move
Traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) rely on spinning platters, which are slow and prone to mechanical failure. SSDs, on the other hand, use flash memory, offering dramatic improvements:
- Blazing Speed: Experience lightning-fast boot-ups, quicker application loading, and snappier file transfers.
- Enhanced Durability: With no moving parts, SSDs are more resistant to drops and bumps, making them ideal for laptops.
- Energy Efficiency: They consume less power, leading to longer battery life for portable devices.
- Silent Operation: Enjoy a quieter computing experience without the whirring of an HDD.
What to Look for in a Best Value SSD
When searching for the Crucial best 120GB SSD for the money or any budget-friendly SSD, consider these factors:
- Capacity: How much storage do you actually need? For just an operating system and a few core applications, 120GB or 240GB might suffice. For more games, photos, or videos, 500GB or 1TB is a better bet.
- Form Factor: Most internal drives are 2.5-inch SATA. Portable SSDs are smaller and connect via USB.
- Read/Write Speeds: Higher numbers mean faster performance. SATA drives typically max out around 500-550 MB/s. Portable SSDs using USB 3.2 Gen 2 can reach over 1000 MB/s, with even faster options available.
- Reliability & Warranty: A good warranty (3-5 years) provides peace of mind.
- Brand Reputation: Brands like Crucial, Western Digital, and Lexar are known for quality.
Now, let’s explore our top picks!
Crucial BX500 240GB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
If you’re looking to revitalize an old laptop or desktop on a budget, the Crucial BX500 240GB is a fantastic starting point. It’s a no-frills internal SSD that delivers a noticeable performance boost over traditional hard drives. While not strictly a 120GB model, its slightly larger capacity often comes at such an appealing price point that it easily qualifies as a contender for the Crucial best SSD for the money when considering overall value and usability. You’ll instantly feel the difference in daily tasks, from browsing the web to opening documents.
Key Features:
– Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
– 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
– Improves battery life because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive.
– Micron 3D NAND – advancing the world’s memory and storage technology for 40 years.
– Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Excellent performance upgrade for the price.
– Significantly faster boot and load times compared to HDDs.
– Energy-efficient design helps improve laptop battery life.
– Backed by Crucial’s reputation and a solid 3-year warranty.
– Easy to install in most 2.5-inch drive bays.
Cons:
– Not the fastest SATA SSD on the market, but still a huge upgrade from HDD.
– 240GB might feel limiting for users with many applications or large media files.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the BX500 for its transformative effect on older computers. Many highlight how easy it is to install and clone their existing drives, immediately experiencing faster boot times and smoother overall operation. It’s often cited as the perfect entry-level SSD for anyone on a tight budget.
Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen2x2
For creators, gamers, or anyone needing serious speed on the go, the Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD is an absolute powerhouse. While a far cry from a 120GB internal drive, if your definition of “best for the money” extends to portable, high-performance storage, this is a top-tier choice. Its incredible read speeds make transferring large video files, game libraries, or extensive photo collections a breeze. This isn’t just an external drive; it’s an extension of your high-speed workflow.
Key Features:
– Ultra-fast Speeds: Designed for creators, students, and PC gamers, this matte blue external SSD delivers fast data access with up to 2,100MB/s read speeds.
– Built to Last: Perfect for travel and all types of weather with IP65 dust and water resistance. Plus, it’s drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres).
– Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
– Ultimate Storage Capacity: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more with this compact external 1TB SSD.
– Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
– Exceptional read speeds (up to 2100MB/s) for rapid data access.
– Highly durable with IP65 water/dust resistance and significant drop protection.
– Wide compatibility across multiple devices and operating systems.
– Generous 1TB capacity for extensive media and game libraries.
– Compact and portable design for easy transport.
Cons:
– Premium price point due to high performance and capacity.
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port on the host device to achieve maximum speeds.
User Impressions:
Users are blown away by the speed of the X10, especially those working with large video files or running games directly from the drive. Its robust build quality also gets high marks, giving users confidence in its durability for fieldwork or travel. The broad compatibility is a big plus for multi-device owners.
Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen2
The Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD strikes an excellent balance between performance and affordability for external storage. While not as blindingly fast as its X10 sibling, its 1050MB/s speeds are still incredibly rapid, making it a fantastic choice for casual gamers, photographers, or anyone needing to transfer large files without breaking the bank. It’s a versatile, durable external drive that easily qualifies for “best value” in the portable SSD category.
Key Features:
– High-speed Performance: Designed for casual gamers and everyday use, this external SSD with up to 1050MB/s accelerates large file transfers, media editing, and backup processes.
– Built to Last: Perfect for travel and all types of weather with IP55 water and dust resistance. Plus, it’s drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
– Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
– High-Capacity Storage: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more with this compact 1TB SSD.
– Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
– Excellent balance of speed and price for a portable 1TB SSD.
– Good durability with IP55 water/dust resistance and drop protection.
– Wide-ranging compatibility with modern devices.
– Ample 1TB storage for most users’ needs.
– Compact and lightweight design.
Cons:
– Not as fast as the higher-end X10 Pro or X10 models.
– IP55 rating is good, but not as robust as the X10’s IP65.
User Impressions:
Reviewers love the X9 for its impressive speed that’s significantly better than external HDDs, making it perfect for quick backups or transporting project files. Its compact size and solid build are frequently mentioned, along with its hassle-free plug-and-play experience across different devices.
Patriot Memory Burst Elite SATA 3 120GB SSD 2.5″
If your search truly began with “Crucial best 120gb ssd for the money,” then the Patriot Memory Burst Elite 120GB is definitely one to consider. This internal SSD offers a bare-bones, cost-effective solution for those who need just enough space for an operating system and essential applications. It’s an ideal choice for reviving an old desktop or laptop with minimal investment, providing that crucial speed boost without unnecessary frills.
Key Features:
– Latest SATA 3 Controller.
– Capacity: 120GB – available in 10-pack for bulk needs.
– Interface: SATA III 6Gb/s.
– Static and Dynamic Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management.
– Low Power Management.
– Form Factor: 2.5″.
– Warranty: 3 Years.
Pros:
– Very affordable entry point for an SSD upgrade.
– Provides a significant speed boost over traditional HDDs.
– Low power consumption helps with battery life in laptops.
– Includes wear-leveling features for enhanced longevity.
– Standard 2.5-inch form factor for broad compatibility.
Cons:
– Limited 120GB capacity fills up quickly.
– Performance is standard for a budget SATA SSD, not groundbreaking.
– May not come with data migration software (check specific bundles).
User Impressions:
Many users find the Patriot Burst Elite 120GB to be an excellent choice for breathing new life into older machines or for use as a dedicated OS drive. The price point is a major selling factor, and the performance upgrade from an HDD is consistently highlighted as impactful for everyday computing.
Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
For those who need serious storage capacity without sacrificing SSD speed, the Crucial BX500 2TB internal SSD is an incredible value proposition. While it moves far beyond the “120GB” in our search, it embodies the “best for the money” ethos by offering a massive amount of fast storage at a competitive price point. This drive is perfect for users with large game libraries, extensive media collections, or anyone looking to consolidate multiple drives into one speedy solution.
Key Features:
– Compatible devices: This drive is compatible with desktops and laptops that accept 2.5″ 7mm SATA drives.
– (Additional features are similar to the 240GB BX500, focusing on speed, efficiency, and Micron 3D NAND).
Pros:
– Massive 2TB capacity for extensive storage needs.
– Excellent price-per-gigabyte for an internal SSD.
– Significant speed upgrade over HDDs.
– Energy-efficient design.
– Reliable Crucial brand with a 3-year warranty.
Cons:
– SATA III speeds are not as fast as NVMe SSDs (but still much faster than HDDs).
– Some users might find the included software (if any) to be basic.
User Impressions:
Customers rave about the BX500 2TB’s ability to store vast amounts of data while maintaining quick access speeds. It’s a popular choice for gamers wanting to install many titles and for media professionals needing fast access to large project files. The ease of installation and the reliable performance from Crucial are frequently praised.
Western Digital 120GB WD Green Internal PC SSD Solid State Drive
The Western Digital 120GB WD Green SSD is another strong contender for the “Crucial best 120gb ssd for the money” title, offering a reliable entry-level SSD experience. WD Green drives are known for their efficiency and value, making this a solid choice for basic system upgrades where performance needs a boost but budget is key. It’s a dependable option for giving new life to an older machine without overspending.
Key Features:
– SLC (single-level cell) caching boosts write performance to quickly perform everyday tasks.
– Shock-resistant and WD F.I.T. Lab certified for compatibility and reliability.
– Ultra low power-draw so you can use your laptop PC for longer periods of time.
– Includes a 3-year limited warranty so upgrading your storage is worry-free.
– The free, downloadable WD SSD Dashboard* lets you easily monitor the status of your drive.
Pros:
– Very affordable option for a 120GB SSD.
– SLC caching enhances write performance for common tasks.
– Low power consumption is excellent for laptop battery life.
– Certified for compatibility and reliability by WD’s F.I.T. Lab.
– WD SSD Dashboard software for monitoring and maintenance.
Cons:
– 120GB capacity is quite small for modern needs beyond a basic OS drive.
– Performance is geared towards efficiency and budget, not top-tier speed.
User Impressions:
Users frequently choose the WD Green 120GB for its exceptional value and reliability. It’s a common recommendation for first-time SSD upgraders who want a noticeable speed improvement for their operating system and core applications. The low power consumption is also a big win for laptop users.
Silicon Power 128GB SSD 3D NAND A55 SLC Cache Performance Boost SATA III
The Silicon Power 128GB SSD A55 is a dark horse in the race for the “Crucial best 120gb ssd for the money,” often outperforming its price point. With 3D NAND and SLC Cache technology, it aims to deliver a snappy experience for an incredibly affordable drive. This drive is designed for those who need a fundamental upgrade to SSD speed without making a significant financial commitment, making it perfect for a secondary PC or a budget-focused system revival.
Key Features:
– Uses 3D NAND Flash technology.
– SLC Cache technology for performance boost.
– SATA III 6Gb/s interface.
– Ultra-slim 7mm design.
– Shock and vibration resistant.
– Supports TRIM command, Garbage Collection, and S.M.A.R.T. monitoring.
Pros:
– Extremely competitive price for a 128GB SSD.
– 3D NAND and SLC cache offer decent performance for its class.
– Durable design with no moving parts.
– Standard form factor for easy installation.
– Supports essential SSD health management features.
Cons:
– Silicon Power might be a less recognized brand for some users.
– Performance, while good for the price, won’t match premium SSDs.
– 128GB capacity is very limited.
User Impressions:
Customers are pleasantly surprised by the performance of the Silicon Power A55, often noting that it brings their older machines back to life with quick boot times and application loading. The value-for-money aspect is a consistent highlight, making it a popular choice for budget builds and simple upgrades.
Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read, 2000MB/s Write
For professional creators and demanding users, the Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD offers an unmatched blend of speed, security, and durability. While definitely a premium product and not a 120GB internal drive, its “Pro” moniker signifies its top-tier performance, making it a strong contender for the Crucial best SSD for the money for those who value speed and reliability in a portable format above all else. This is the drive you grab when every second counts for your workflow.
Key Features:
– Ultra-fast Speeds: Designed for professional creators, this external SSD delivers fast data access with up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds.
– Built to Last: Perfect for field work and all-weather shoots with IP55 water and dust resistance. Plus, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters). Includes a 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: Store high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and current projects with this compact 1TB SSD.
– Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast sequential read and write speeds, ideal for professional media work.
– Robust IP55 water and dust resistance, along with drop protection.
– Hardware-level SSD password protection for sensitive data.
– Excellent 1TB capacity for large project files.
– Wide device compatibility, including game consoles.
Cons:
– High price point, a significant investment.
– Requires a compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port to reach full speeds.
User Impressions:
Professionals are extremely impressed with the X10 Pro’s performance, citing its ability to handle 4K/8K video editing directly from the drive with ease. The added security features and robust build quality are highly valued for field use, making it a reliable workhorse for creative tasks.
Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
The Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD offers another solid option if you’re laser-focused on finding the “Crucial best 120gb ssd for the money” or a direct competitor. It’s a straightforward, performance-enhancing internal drive designed to be a significant upgrade over a traditional HDD. Lexar is a well-established name in flash memory, and this drive delivers reliable, everyday speed for a very attractive price.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads.
– Sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s.
– Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives.
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts.
– [128GB] 60TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating.
– Three-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Affordable price point for a 128GB internal SSD.
– Significantly improves system responsiveness and boot times.
– Durable and reliable with no moving parts.
– Standard 2.5-inch form factor for easy integration.
– Decent TBW rating for its class, indicating good longevity.
Cons:
– 128GB capacity is quite limited for modern operating systems and applications.
– Performance is typical for a budget SATA SSD, not class-leading.
User Impressions:
Users frequently recommend the Lexar NS100 as a great budget pick for giving an old computer a new lease on life. They appreciate the noticeable speed increase and the straightforward installation process. Its reliability and low cost are consistent themes in positive reviews.
Crucial BX500 SATA SSD 2TB, 2.5 Inch Internal Hard Drive
Rounding out our list is another iteration of the Crucial BX500, this time the 2TB model, solidifying its place as a top contender for the “Crucial best SSD for the money” for high-capacity internal storage. This drive is ideal for users who need a vast amount of fast storage for games, media, or professional applications without jumping to the higher cost of NVMe. It offers all the benefits of an SSD with the storage capacity to replace traditional hard drives entirely.
Key Features:
– Boot up your system in seconds: Load files almost instantaneously and accelerate even demanding applications with the Crucial BX500.
– Dynamic Write Acceleration Technology uses flexible high-speed single-level cell flash memory to achieve fast speeds.
– Store up to 4TB of data (mentioning 2TB is likely the specific model here, but the family supports up to 4TB).
– Upgrade with reliability: Our award-winning SSDs are backed by thousands of validation hours, dozens of qualification tests, and a 3-year limited warranty.
– Installation confidence: Includes free Acronis True Image HD software for easiest data migration.
– Hardware-based encryption Protect personal files and sensitive data from hackers and thieves with 256-bit AES encryption that meets common industry standards.
Pros:
– Massive 2TB capacity, offering ample space for almost any user.
– Excellent value for money in terms of cost per gigabyte.
– Includes Acronis True Image HD for easy data migration.
– Hardware-based encryption for enhanced data security.
– Reliable performance and energy efficiency from the Crucial BX500 line.
Cons:
– Performance is limited by the SATA III interface compared to NVMe drives.
– Some users might not utilize the full 2TB capacity and could save money with a smaller drive.
User Impressions:
This 2TB BX500 is a favorite among those who prioritize capacity alongside SSD speeds. Gamers love being able to install their entire library on one fast drive, and media creators appreciate the quick access to large project files. The inclusion of Acronis software is frequently highlighted as a major benefit for hassle-free upgrading.
The Verdict: Choosing Your Best 120GB SSD for the Money
So, which is the Crucial best 120GB SSD for the money (or best value SSD generally)?
- For the absolute bare-bones 120GB internal upgrade: The Patriot Memory Burst Elite 120GB or Western Digital 120GB WD Green are excellent, budget-friendly choices to kickstart an old system. The Silicon Power 128GB A55 and Lexar 128GB NS100 are also strong contenders here.
- For a slightly larger, better value internal upgrade (most recommended for internal): The Crucial BX500 240GB (or the Crucial BX500 2TB if you need massive storage) provides a much better cost-per-gigabyte, making it often a smarter choice than 120GB if your budget allows just a little more.
- For high-speed portable storage: The Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD offers a fantastic balance of speed and value, while the Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD and Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD are for those who need top-tier portable performance and durability for demanding tasks.
Ultimately, the “best for the money” depends on your specific needs, but by considering these top picks, you’re sure to find a fantastic SSD that dramatically improves your computing experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why consider a 120GB SSD when larger ones are more common?
A1: A 120GB SSD is typically chosen for very specific, budget-conscious scenarios. It’s perfect for reviving an old laptop or desktop where you only need space for the operating system and a few essential applications, using a traditional HDD for bulk storage. It provides a significant speed boost over an HDD for very little cost. However, for modern needs, 240GB or 500GB often offers better long-term value.
Q2: What’s the main difference between internal and portable SSDs?
A2: Internal SSDs (like the Crucial BX500) are installed inside your computer, typically replacing a hard drive, to boost system performance. Portable SSDs (like the Crucial X-series) are external drives that connect via USB, offering fast, durable storage for backups, file transfers, or running applications on the go without internal installation.
Q3: What does “SATA III” mean for an SSD?
A3: SATA III (or SATA 6Gb/s) is the interface that most 2.5-inch internal SSDs use to connect to your computer’s motherboard. It dictates the maximum theoretical speed the drive can achieve, which is around 600 MB/s. While fast, newer NVMe SSDs (which use the PCIe interface) are significantly faster, but also typically more expensive and require a compatible motherboard slot.
Q4: How important are read/write speeds for everyday users?
A4: For everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and launching common applications, any SSD will feel dramatically faster than an HDD. You’ll notice the difference in boot times and general responsiveness. While higher read/write speeds are beneficial for large file transfers, video editing, or professional applications, a basic SATA SSD’s speeds are more than adequate for most casual users.
Q5: Is Crucial a reliable brand for SSDs?
A5: Absolutely! Crucial is a very reputable brand in the memory and storage industry, known for producing reliable and high-performance SSDs. They are owned by Micron, one of the world’s largest memory and flash storage manufacturers, giving them direct access to high-quality NAND flash components.
Q6: Can I use an SSD for gaming?
A6: Yes, definitely! An SSD will significantly reduce game loading times compared to an HDD. While it won’t directly improve your frame rate, getting into the game faster and reducing texture pop-in can greatly enhance the gaming experience. For competitive gaming, faster load times can even provide a small advantage.
Q7: What is 3D NAND technology?
A7: 3D NAND (or Vertical NAND) is a type of flash memory where memory cells are stacked vertically in multiple layers, rather than being laid out horizontally. This allows manufacturers to pack more storage into a smaller space and can improve performance, efficiency, and durability compared to older 2D NAND technology.
Q8: Do I need any special software to install an SSD?
A8: Most SSDs come with a simple installation guide. If you’re replacing your main drive, you’ll need to transfer your operating system and files. Many brands, like Crucial, include or offer free data migration software (e.g., Acronis True Image HD) to make this process much easier. Otherwise, you’ll need to do a fresh installation of your operating system.