Thinking about giving your computer a serious speed boost or just need some reliable, fast storage? A 500GB SSD is often the sweet spot for many users. It offers ample space for your operating system, essential applications, and a good chunk of files, all while delivering lightning-fast performance that traditional hard drives (HDDs) can only dream of. If you’re looking for the best 500gb ssd hard drive to upgrade your setup, you’re in the right place!
In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the top 500GB solid state drive options available today, covering both internal and portable solutions. We’ve handpicked a diverse range of drives that stand out for their performance, reliability, and value. Let’s get your system running like a dream!
Our Top Picks for the Best 500GB SSD Hard Drive
1. PNY CS900 500GB 3D NAND 2.5″ SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
The PNY CS900 is a fantastic entry-level SSD for anyone looking to make the leap from a traditional hard drive without breaking the bank. It’s designed to breathe new life into older laptops or desktops, offering significantly faster boot times and application loads. If you’re on a budget but still want reliable performance for everyday computing, this drive is a solid choice.
- Key Features:
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer with super-fast OS boot times and application loads.
- Exceptional performance offering up to 550MB/s sequential Read and 500MB/s sequential Write speeds.
- Superior performance compared to traditional hard drives (HDD).
- Ultra-low power consumption.
- Backwards compatible with SATA II 3GB/sec.
- Pros:
- Excellent value for money.
- Noticeable speed improvement over HDDs.
- Low power consumption, great for laptops.
- Easy to install for most users.
- Cons:
- Performance is standard for SATA III, not NVMe speeds.
- No advanced software suite included.
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise the PNY CS900 for its straightforward installation and immediate performance boost, especially for older systems. It’s often cited as a reliable and cost-effective upgrade that delivers exactly what it promises.
- See it on Amazon here
2. SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive
When it comes to internal SATA SSDs, Samsung’s EVO series has consistently been an industry leader, and the 870 EVO 500GB is no exception. This drive is a powerhouse, offering top-tier SATA performance, exceptional reliability, and broad compatibility. It’s perfect for users who demand consistent high performance for everything from everyday tasks to more intensive workloads like 8K video processing.
- Key Features:
- The latest 870 EVO boasts indisputable performance, reliability, and compatibility.
- Maximizes SATA interface limits with up to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
- Accelerates write speeds and maintains long-term high performance with a larger variable buffer.
- Industry-defining reliability with up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty.
- Compatibility tested for major host systems and applications.
- Easy upgrade via standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor.
- Samsung Magician 6 software helps manage, update, monitor, and enhance performance.
- From the world’s #1 flash memory brand since 2003, with in-house produced components.
- Pros:
- Class-leading SATA performance and reliability.
- Excellent endurance and a generous 5-year warranty.
- Samsung Magician software is a powerful management tool.
- Highly compatible with a wide range of systems.
- Cons:
- Generally more expensive than budget SATA SSDs.
- Still limited by SATA speeds compared to NVMe drives.
- User Impressions: Customers consistently highlight the Samsung 870 EVO for its outstanding speed, ease of installation, and renowned reliability. Many consider it the gold standard for SATA SSDs, often noting its seamless performance and the peace of mind offered by Samsung’s reputation.
- See it on Amazon here
3. SSK Portable SSD 500GB External Solid State Drives
If you need blazing-fast storage on the go, the SSK Portable SSD 500GB is a compelling choice. This external SSD leverages USB 3.2 Gen2 to deliver incredible transfer speeds, making it ideal for large file transfers, backing up data, or even recording 4K ProRes video directly from your iPhone. Its compact size and robust build are just the cherry on top.
- Key Features:
- Blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD with read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s.
- LED light indicates instant activity.
- S.M.A.R.T. monitoring for drive health and TRIM technology for consistent write speeds.
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for broad compatibility.
- Maintains steady 10Gbps speeds for files smaller than 150GB with SLC caching.
- Empowers 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture for iPhone.
- 2mm thick aluminum alloy case provides superior heat dissipation (case temperature peaks at 105.58°F).
- Impressively lightweight (36.6g) and portable (2.61.50.5 inch).
- Pros:
- Exceptional transfer speeds for an external drive.
- Highly portable and lightweight.
- Robust aluminum casing for durability and heat management.
- Wide compatibility with included cables.
- Ideal for mobile content creation (e.g., iPhone 4K video).
- Cons:
- Performance might vary slightly for extremely large single file transfers (over 150GB).
- Display capacity on Windows can be slightly less due to different algorithms (common for storage devices).
- User Impressions: Users are highly impressed by the SSK portable SSD’s speed and incredibly compact design. It’s a popular choice for professionals and creatives who need to move large files quickly and reliably between devices, often remarking on its plug-and-play simplicity.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is built for adventure and demanding users who need robust, high-performance external storage. With NVMe solid state performance packed into a rugged, portable form factor, this drive is designed to withstand drops, dust, and water. It’s a perfect companion for photographers, videographers, or anyone who works in the field.
- Key Features:
- Get NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment to bags or belts.
- Includes password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.
- Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app.
- Pros:
- Outstanding durability with high drop and ingress protection.
- NVMe-level speeds in a portable form.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Hardware encryption for data security.
- Integrated loop adds convenience for portability.
- Cons:
- Premium price point due to its rugged features.
- Performance can vary based on host device.
- User Impressions: Customers rave about the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD’s resilience and speed, especially those who work outdoors or travel frequently. Its robust build quality and consistent performance make it a go-to choice for safeguarding valuable data on the move.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Western Digital 500GB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive
Western Digital’s WD Blue SA510 offers a reliable and well-rounded 500GB SATA SSD experience, building on WD’s long-standing reputation in storage. This internal solid state drive is designed for everyday computing, providing a noticeable performance uplift over traditional hard drives while maintaining a competitive price point. It’s a dependable workhorse for system upgrades or new builds.
- Key Features:
- 500 GB storage capacity.
- SATA III interface for broad compatibility.
- 2.5″ form factor, ideal for desktops and laptops.
- Designed for reliable internal storage.
- Pros:
- Reputable brand with a focus on reliability.
- Good balance of performance and affordability for a SATA SSD.
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor ensures wide compatibility.
- Efficient for everyday computing tasks.
- Cons:
- Not as fast as NVMe drives.
- Some competing SATA SSDs might offer slightly higher peak speeds or more bundled software.
- User Impressions: Users frequently commend the WD Blue SA510 for its smooth operation and straightforward upgrade process. It’s often recommended as a solid, dependable choice for revitalizing older PCs or as reliable primary storage for budget-conscious new builds.
- See it on Amazon here
6. UnionSine 500GB 2.5″ Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive (HDD)
While our focus has been primarily on the incredible speed of solid state drives, sometimes a traditional external hard drive still makes sense, especially if sheer speed isn’t your top priority and budget is. The UnionSine 500GB Portable External Hard Drive is a fantastic option in this category, offering a compact and quiet solution for basic data backup and storage, especially if you have older devices or game consoles that don’t fully leverage SSD speeds.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-Fast Data Transfers with USB 3.0 (up to 110-133MB/s read, 103MB/s write).
- Ultra-thin and quiet operation thanks to JMicron 578 noise-free solution.
- Lightweight and portable, designed to fit in your pocket.
- Wide compatibility with PS4/Xbox One/Windows/Linux/Mac/Android.
- Plug and Play – no software installation needed.
- Aluminum anti-interference layer for heat dissipation and data protection.
- Double anti-interference chip for faster, more stable transmission.
- Pros:
- Very quiet operation.
- Highly portable and slim design.
- Excellent compatibility across multiple platforms, including game consoles.
- Affordable external storage solution.
- Plug-and-play simplicity.
- Cons:
- Significantly slower than any SSD (it’s an HDD, not an SSD).
- More susceptible to damage from drops than an SSD.
- User Impressions: Users value the UnionSine external hard drive for its silent operation and broad compatibility, particularly for expanding storage on gaming consoles or for simple, budget-friendly backups where extreme speed isn’t a necessity. Its slim profile is also a major plus.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive HDD
Another excellent choice for portable, cost-effective storage is the Maxone 500GB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive. This HDD combines a sleek, sturdy metal design with easy plug-and-play functionality, making it ideal for those needing reliable extra storage for their PC or laptop without the higher cost of an SSD. It’s a great backup companion or for carrying large media libraries.
- Key Features:
- Ultra Slim (0.4 inch thick) and Sturdy Metal Design (All-Aluminum anti-scratch model).
- Runs cool and quiet.
- Compatible with Microsoft Windows 7/8/10, providing fast and stable performance.
- Powered by USB 3.0 technology for super fast transfer speed up to 5 Gbit/s (theoretical, actual HDD speeds are much lower).
- Plug and Play: no external power supply or software installation needed.
- Includes portable external hard drive, 19-inch USB 3.0 cable, user’s manual, and 3-Year manufacturer warranty.
- Pros:
- Very slim and aesthetically pleasing metal design.
- Quiet and cool operation.
- Plug-and-play convenience.
- Good value for basic external storage needs.
- 3-year warranty provides peace of mind.
- Cons:
- As an HDD, it’s considerably slower than SSDs.
- More fragile than an SSD if dropped.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the Maxone external hard drive for its elegant design and straightforward usability. It’s frequently recommended for simple file backups, expanding laptop storage, and storing media, with many users happy with its quiet operation and durability of the casing.
- See it on Amazon here
Choosing the Best 500GB SSD Hard Drive: What to Consider?
When you’re looking to buy the best 500gb ssd hard drive, whether it’s an internal upgrade or a portable powerhouse, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Internal vs. External: Internal SSDs (like the PNY or Samsung) are for upgrading your computer’s primary storage, offering the fastest possible boot and application load times. External SSDs (like the SSK or SanDisk) are for portability, allowing you to carry data between devices or use as high-speed backup. The last two products, UnionSine and Maxone, are external hard drives (HDDs), offering lower cost and larger capacities, but significantly slower speeds and less durability than SSDs.
- SATA vs. NVMe: Most internal 2.5-inch SSDs use the SATA III interface, which maxes out around 550MB/s. NVMe SSDs (often found in M.2 form factor, or powering the faster external SSDs like SanDisk and SSK) are much faster, offering speeds well over 1000MB/s. For internal upgrades, ensure your motherboard supports NVMe if you want that extra speed.
- Read/Write Speeds: Higher numbers generally mean faster performance. For everyday use, even a basic SATA SSD is a huge improvement over an HDD. For gaming, large file transfers, or video editing, higher speeds are definitely a plus.
- Durability & Reliability: SSDs are inherently more durable than HDDs because they have no moving parts. External drives often add extra protection against drops and dust. Check the TBW (Terabytes Written) rating and warranty for an idea of reliability.
- Compatibility: Ensure the drive’s form factor (e.g., 2.5-inch SATA, M.2) and interface (SATA, NVMe, USB-C, USB-A) match your device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between an SSD and an HDD?
A1: SSDs (Solid State Drives) use flash memory to store data, similar to a USB stick, with no moving parts. This makes them significantly faster, more durable, and more energy-efficient than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), which use spinning platters and read/write heads. HDDs are typically cheaper per gigabyte and offer much larger capacities.
Q2: Is 500GB enough storage for my computer?
A2: For many users, 500GB is a perfect amount. It’s usually enough for your operating system, essential software, and a good collection of documents, photos, and some games. If you store a lot of large video files, a vast game library, or work with huge datasets, you might eventually need a larger drive or supplementary external storage.
Q3: How do I install an internal 2.5-inch SATA SSD?
A3: Installing a 2.5-inch SATA SSD is relatively straightforward. For desktops, you’ll need a SATA data cable and a SATA power cable (from your power supply) to connect the drive. For laptops, you typically just open a bay, slide the drive in, and secure it. You’ll then need to clone your existing drive or perform a fresh OS installation. Many manufacturers provide migration software.
Q4: Are external SSDs as fast as internal ones?
A4: External SSDs can be very fast, especially those utilizing USB 3.2 Gen2 or Thunderbolt connections. Some, like the SanDisk Extreme, use NVMe technology internally, offering speeds comparable to internal NVMe drives, though the connection type can be a bottleneck. SATA-based external SSDs will be limited to SATA speeds. Always check the specific read/write speeds.
Q5: How long do SSDs typically last?
A5: SSDs have a finite number of write cycles, but for average users, they are incredibly durable and long-lasting. Most modern SSDs are rated for hundreds of Terabytes Written (TBW) and come with warranties of 3 to 5 years. You’re more likely to upgrade your computer before your SSD wears out from normal use.
Q6: Can I use a 500GB SSD for gaming?
A6: Absolutely! A 500GB SSD is an excellent choice for gaming. It will significantly reduce game loading times, texture pop-in, and overall system responsiveness compared to an HDD. While 500GB might fill up quickly with many modern AAA titles (which can be 50-100GB+ each), it’s a great starting point for faster gaming.
Q7: What’s the “best” type of 500GB SSD for a laptop upgrade?
A7: For most laptops, a 2.5-inch SATA SSD like the Samsung 870 EVO or PNY CS900 is the most common and compatible upgrade. If your laptop has an M.2 slot and supports NVMe, an M.2 NVMe SSD (not covered in this specific 500GB review list, but generally faster) would be the “best” in terms of raw speed, assuming your laptop supports it.
There you have it – a comprehensive look at some of the best 500gb ssd hard drive options available today. Whether you’re aiming for a blazing-fast internal upgrade or a robust portable solution, there’s a 500GB drive out there that fits your needs and budget. Happy computing!