Looking to give your computer a serious speed boost or expand your storage capacity? Solid State Drives (SSDs) are the way to go, and when it comes to reliability, performance, and innovation, Samsung is consistently at the top of the game. But with so many options, how do you find the best price for Samsung SSD that perfectly fits your needs and budget?
You’re in the right place! We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to 10 of Samsung’s top SSDs, ranging from lightning-fast internal NVMe drives to incredibly durable portable options. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a content creator, or just someone tired of slow loading times, we’ll help you navigate the features, pros, and cons to uncover the ideal Samsung storage solution for you. Let’s dive in and find that perfect deal!
Why Choose a Samsung SSD?
Samsung has cemented its reputation as a leader in flash memory technology for good reason. They produce their own components in-house, ensuring tight quality control and cutting-edge innovation. This commitment translates into SSDs that offer:
- Blazing Speeds: From quick boot times to rapid file transfers, Samsung SSDs dramatically reduce lag.
- Exceptional Reliability: Built to last, these drives often come with generous warranties and high endurance ratings.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Samsung is often among the first to bring new standards like PCIe Gen 5 and advanced thermal management to market.
- Magician Software: Their proprietary software helps you monitor drive health, optimize performance, and keep your SSD up-to-date.
Ready to explore your options? Let’s get to the reviews!
Our Top 10 Samsung SSD Picks
1. Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive
The Samsung 870 EVO is truly an SSD all-star, perfect for breathing new life into older laptops or desktops still relying on a SATA interface. It perfectly balances price and performance, offering incredible reliability and wide compatibility. If you’re looking for a dependable upgrade that delivers a noticeable speed bump without breaking the bank, this 2.5-inch internal SSD is an excellent choice. It’s built on Samsung’s pioneering technology, ensuring professional-level performance for everyday computing and even heavier workloads.
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Key Features:
- Sequential speeds up to 560/530 MB/s.
- Up to 600 TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance.
- 5-year limited warranty for long-term reliability.
- Wide compatibility with major host systems, motherboards, and NAS devices.
- Easy 2.5-inch SATA form factor installation.
- Samsung Magician 6 software for drive management and optimization.
- AES 256-bit Encryption for data security.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for a SATA SSD.
- Extremely reliable and durable.
- Broad compatibility makes it a safe upgrade choice.
- Easy to install and manage with Magician software.
- Great value for money.
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe PCIe SSDs.
- Limited by the SATA interface speed.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 870 EVO for its straightforward installation and the immediate, noticeable improvement in system responsiveness. Many call it a “workhorse” SSD, perfect for general use and gaming where SATA speeds are sufficient.
See it on Amazon here
2. Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive
For content creators, photographers, and anyone who needs fast, compact storage on the go, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a game-changer. This sleek external drive is “made for the makers,” offering blazing-fast transfer speeds in a pocket-sized package. Whether you’re backing up large video files, editing photos directly from the drive, or just need reliable external storage, the T7’s PCIe NVMe technology ensures you spend less time waiting and more time doing.
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Key Features:
- Read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Broad compatibility with PCs, Macs, Android devices, and gaming consoles.
- Supports Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fps) video recording directly from devices.
- Shock resistance up to 6 feet due to solid aluminum unibody construction.
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Pros:
- Incredibly fast for a portable SSD.
- Highly portable and durable for everyday travel.
- Excellent for large media files and mobile workflows.
- Wide device compatibility, including iPhone 15 Pro.
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Cons:
- Not as ruggedized as the T7 Shield.
- Could be considered pricey compared to traditional HDDs.
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User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the T7’s speed and portability, highlighting its convenience for backing up large projects quickly. Many appreciate its sturdy build and stylish design.
See it on Amazon here
3. Samsung T7 Shield 2TB, Portable SSD
When your adventures take you off the beaten path, the Samsung T7 Shield is your trusty companion. This 2TB portable SSD is designed to “go the distance,” boasting impressive water, dust, and drop resistance without sacrificing speed. It’s the ideal solution for photographers in harsh environments, videographers shooting on location, or anyone who needs truly rugged portable storage that can withstand the elements.
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Key Features:
- IP65 rating for water and dust resistance.
- Drop resistance up to 9.8 feet.
- Read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, and gaming consoles.
- Samsung Magician software for optimization.
- Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video.
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Pros:
- Exceptional durability against water, dust, and drops.
- Maintains high-speed performance despite its ruggedness.
- Perfect for outdoor use or demanding professional environments.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
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Cons:
- Slightly bulkier and heavier than the standard T7.
- Higher price point due to enhanced durability features.
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User Impressions: Users consistently laud the T7 Shield’s robust build and peace of mind it offers. It’s a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who need their data safe in challenging conditions.
See it on Amazon here
4. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 1TB, PCIe Gen 4×4, Gen 5×2
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus is a fantastic internal NVMe SSD that offers “groundbreaking read/write speeds” for demanding users. What makes it stand out is its impressive performance on PCIe 4.0 systems while also offering compatibility with future PCIe 5.0 systems. This makes it an excellent, somewhat future-proof investment for gamers, content creators, and professionals who need rapid data access for huge file transfers and intense applications.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300 MB/s.
- Compatible with PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 for enhanced bandwidth.
- Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 for enhanced large-file performance.
- Efficient thermal control with a nickel-coated controller.
- Less power consumption while maintaining high performance.
- Managed by Samsung Magician Software for optimal health and updates.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast performance on current PCIe 4.0 systems.
- Forward-compatible with PCIe 5.0 for longevity.
- Excellent for gaming, video editing, and professional software.
- Efficient power usage and good thermal management.
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Cons:
- Requires an M.2 NVMe slot on a compatible motherboard.
- Higher price compared to SATA or PCIe 3.0 SSDs.
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User Impressions: Users report significant improvements in game loading times and application responsiveness. Many appreciate its performance-to-power efficiency ratio, making it a solid choice for high-performance builds.
See it on Amazon here
5. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re after the absolute pinnacle of PCIe 4.0 performance, the Samsung 990 PRO SSD delivers a “huge speed boost” that sets it apart. This M.2 internal drive is engineered for the most demanding tasks, from competitive gaming to professional video editing. Its optimized random performance makes it a “champion maker” for PS5 and DirectStorage PC games, reducing load times dramatically and enhancing your overall experience.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s.
- Up to 1400K/1550K IOPS random read/write speeds.
- Up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO.
- Nickel-coated controller for effective thermal control.
- Optimized for PS5 and DirectStorage PC games.
- Managed with Samsung Magician Software.
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Pros:
- Near maximum PCIe 4.0 performance.
- Exceptional power efficiency.
- Specifically designed for next-gen gaming and heavy workloads.
- Reliable thermal management ensures consistent performance.
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Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Requires a motherboard with a PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot.
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User Impressions: Gamers and professionals are consistently impressed by the 990 PRO’s ability to nearly eliminate loading screens and handle intense multitasking without breaking a sweat. It’s often cited as a top-tier choice for those who need the best.
See it on Amazon here
6. Samsung T9 Portable SSD 2TB, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 External
The Samsung T9 Portable SSD takes external storage speed to the next level, offering “nonstop speed” for creative professionals who need to move massive files quickly. This 2TB powerhouse features the cutting-edge USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, allowing for sustained read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s. Its advanced Dynamic Thermal Guard ensures it stays cool even during intense, prolonged transfers, making it an ideal companion for high-resolution video editing and large project workflows.
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Key Features:
- Sustained read/write speeds up to 2,000MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2).
- Dynamic Thermal Guard for maintaining optimal temperatures.
- Broad compatibility with desktops, cameras, and gaming consoles.
- Durable build for heavy use.
- Samsung Magician Software for management.
- Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast sustained performance for a portable drive.
- Excellent thermal management under load.
- Highly versatile for professional content creation.
- Robust and designed for longevity.
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on your device to achieve full speeds.
- Premium price tag.
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User Impressions: Users are blown away by how quickly they can transfer large video projects and graphic files, noting that it significantly speeds up their workflow. The T9 is considered a must-have for professional videographers and photographers.
See it on Amazon here
7. Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 1TB, PCIe 5.0×4 M.2 2280
Prepare for the future with the Samsung SSD 9100 PRO, which delivers “breakthrough PCIe 5.0 performance.” This 1TB M.2 internal SSD is designed for those who demand the absolute bleeding edge of speed, boasting sequential read/write speeds that are double those of its PCIe 4.0 predecessors. If you’re building a top-tier system for AI applications, professional-grade gaming, or intense content creation, the 9100 PRO offers virtually no lag and nonstop performance.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 14,800/13,400 MB/s (PCIe 5.0).
- Random read/write speeds up to 2,200K/2,600K IOPS.
- 5nm controller boosts power efficiency by up to 49% over 990 PRO.
- Advanced thermal control to maintain performance.
- Compatible with PCIe 5.0 x4.
- Managed by Samsung Magician Software.
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Pros:
- Unprecedented speeds for gaming, AI, and professional tasks.
- Highly power-efficient despite extreme performance.
- Future-proof technology for next-gen systems.
- Excellent random performance for quick application loads.
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Cons:
- Requires a motherboard with a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, which are less common.
- Highest price point among consumer SSDs.
- May require additional cooling solutions depending on system.
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User Impressions: Early adopters are thrilled with the 9100 PRO’s phenomenal speed, reporting instantaneous application launches and game loads. It’s seen as a true investment for future-proof computing.
See it on Amazon here
8. Samsung MU-PE4T0S T7 4TB Shield Portable SSD, USB 3.2
Combining the rugged durability of the T7 Shield with a massive “make room for memories” 4TB capacity, this portable SSD is an absolute powerhouse. The Samsung MU-PE4T0S T7 4TB Shield is designed to “go the distance” with its IP65 water and dust resistance and 9.8-foot drop protection. For professionals handling colossal amounts of data in challenging environments, this drive offers both peace of mind and lightning-fast access to all your critical files.
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Key Features:
- IP65 water and dust resistance, 9.8-foot drop protection.
- 4TB storage capacity.
- Read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Broad compatibility with various devices.
- Samsung Magician software.
- Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video.
- Includes both USB Type-C and USB Type-A cables.
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Pros:
- Exceptional durability combined with massive storage.
- Fast and reliable data transfer for large projects.
- Ideal for professional field use (photography, videography).
- Offers significant peace of mind for data security in harsh conditions.
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Cons:
- Premium pricing, as expected for 4TB rugged portable storage.
- Slightly larger and heavier than non-Shield portable SSDs.
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User Impressions: This drive is highly valued by professional videographers and photographers who need vast, secure storage while on location. Its combination of speed and extreme durability makes it an indispensable tool.
See it on Amazon here
9. SAMSUNG 980 SSD 500GB PCIe 3.0×4, NVMe M.2 2280, Internal
For those looking to “upgrade to impressive NVMe speed” without a hefty investment, the Samsung 980 SSD 500GB is a fantastic entry point. This PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 drive offers a significant performance leap over traditional SATA SSDs, making it an excellent choice for a boot drive, primary gaming storage, or giving an older system a new lease on life. It’s a smart choice for outstanding SSD performance at a more accessible price.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 3,500/3,000 MB/s.
- Over 6.2x faster than SATA SSDs.
- Full Power Mode for continuous high performance.
- Up to 600 TBW endurance and a 5-year limited warranty.
- Reliable thermal control with nickel coating and heat spreader.
- Samsung Magician software for optimization.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for its PCIe 3.0 class.
- Much faster than SATA SSDs for a relatively low cost.
- Good endurance and warranty for peace of mind.
- Effective thermal management.
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Cons:
- Slower than PCIe 4.0/5.0 NVMe drives.
- 500GB capacity might be limited for users with many large games or files.
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User Impressions: Users consistently report that the 980 SSD provides a noticeable speed boost, making their PCs feel much snappier. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious users seeking solid NVMe performance.
See it on Amazon here
10. Samsung PM883 MZ7LH3T8HMLT 3.84TB SATA 6Gb/s 2.5-Inch Enterprise SSD
The Samsung PM883 is a specialist, offering “enterprise-grade reliability and capacity” for demanding server and workstation environments. This 3.84TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD is built for continuous, heavy-duty operation, prioritizing endurance and data integrity over raw consumer speeds. If you’re running a server, a NAS, or need a robust, high-capacity drive for professional data center applications, the PM883 is engineered to deliver rock-solid performance 24/7.
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Key Features:
- 3.84TB storage capacity.
- SATA 6Gb/s interface.
- 2.5-inch form factor.
- Designed for enterprise workloads.
- High endurance and reliability for continuous operation.
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Pros:
- Exceptional reliability and endurance for server use.
- Massive capacity in a standard 2.5-inch form factor.
- Built for consistent performance under heavy, prolonged load.
- Cost-effective for large-scale data storage in a business context.
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Cons:
- SATA interface limits its speed compared to NVMe SSDs.
- Overkill and potentially less cost-efficient for standard consumer PC use.
- Features are optimized for enterprise environments, not consumer desktops.
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User Impressions: In enterprise settings, the PM883 is highly regarded for its stability, consistent performance, and long lifespan when dealing with intense read/write cycles, making it a dependable choice for critical data.
See it on Amazon here
Finding Your Perfect Samsung SSD: Beyond the Best Price
Choosing the right SSD isn’t just about finding the best price for Samsung SSD; it’s about matching the drive to your specific needs. Consider these factors:
- Capacity: How much storage do you really need? 500GB-1TB is good for a boot drive and some games, while 2TB-4TB+ is better for large media libraries or extensive game collections.
- Form Factor: Is it for a desktop (2.5-inch SATA, M.2 NVMe) or a laptop (2.5-inch SATA, M.2 NVMe)? Do you need a portable external drive?
- Interface:
- SATA: Widely compatible, good for general use and older systems. More affordable.
- PCIe NVMe (M.2): Much faster, ideal for high-performance tasks like gaming, video editing, and demanding applications. Check your motherboard for compatible M.2 slots (PCIe Gen 3, 4, or 5).
- Speed Requirements: Are you a casual user, a hardcore gamer, or a professional content creator? Your answer will dictate how much speed you truly need.
- Durability (for portable SSDs): Do you need a rugged drive that can withstand drops, dust, and water?
By considering these points, you’ll not only find a great deal but also an SSD that truly enhances your computing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What makes Samsung SSDs stand out from other brands?
A: Samsung’s reputation stems from its end-to-end control over the manufacturing process, from NAND flash memory to controllers and firmware. This ensures high quality, cutting-edge performance, superior reliability, and excellent compatibility. Plus, their Magician software offers great management tools.
Q2: What’s the main difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A: The key difference is speed and interface. SATA SSDs (like the 870 EVO) connect via the SATA 3.0 interface and max out around 550 MB/s. NVMe SSDs (like the 990 PRO) connect via the PCIe interface, which is much faster, offering speeds ranging from 3,000 MB/s to over 14,000 MB/s depending on the PCIe generation (Gen 3, 4, or 5). NVMe drives are ideal for high-performance computing.
Q3: How do I choose the right capacity for my Samsung SSD?
A: Consider your primary use case. For a boot drive and essential applications, 500GB is a good start. 1TB is a versatile choice for most users, offering ample space for the OS, software, and a decent game library. For content creators, gamers with large libraries, or data hoarders, 2TB, 4TB, or even 8TB SSDs are more suitable.
Q4: Are portable SSDs like the Samsung T7 series worth the investment?
A: Absolutely, especially if you regularly transfer large files, work on projects across multiple devices, or need fast, reliable backup on the go. Portable SSDs are significantly faster, more durable, and more compact than traditional portable hard drives, making them ideal for photographers, videographers, and frequent travelers.
Q5: What is Samsung Magician software and why is it important?
A: Samsung Magician is a free software utility designed to help you manage your Samsung SSD. It allows you to monitor drive health, check performance benchmarks, optimize settings, update firmware, and enable data security features like encryption. It’s a valuable tool for ensuring your SSD performs at its best.
Q6: How can I ensure I get the best price for a Samsung SSD?
A: To find the best price for Samsung SSD, always compare prices across multiple retailers (like Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, etc.). Look out for sales events (Black Friday, Prime Day, Cyber Monday), back-to-school deals, and bundled offers. Consider older generations (e.g., PCIe Gen 3 if you don’t need Gen 4) as their prices often drop when new models are released.
Q7: Is upgrading to an SSD difficult for an average user?
A: For 2.5-inch SATA SSDs, it’s often quite straightforward: plug it into a standard SATA data and power cable. For M.2 NVMe SSDs, it involves inserting the drive into a dedicated slot on your motherboard and securing it with a screw. While a bit more involved than external drives, many online tutorials and Samsung’s own migration software make the process manageable for most users.
Q8: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen 3, Gen 4, and Gen 5 SSDs?
A: These refer to different generations of the PCI Express interface, each offering a significant increase in bandwidth (speed). PCIe Gen 3 SSDs are common and offer speeds up to around 3,500 MB/s. PCIe Gen 4 SSDs double that, reaching speeds up to 7,000-7,500 MB/s. PCIe Gen 5 SSDs are the latest and fastest, pushing speeds well over 10,000 MB/s. Your motherboard must support a specific PCIe generation to utilize its full speed.