Looking to breathe new life into your aging laptop or desktop, or perhaps speed up your new build without breaking the bank? A 500GB solid state drive (SSD) is often the sweet spot, offering ample storage for your operating system, essential applications, and a decent chunk of games or files, all while delivering a dramatic performance boost over traditional hard drives. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best 500GB SSD for cheap that doesn’t compromise on quality?
We’ve done the legwork for you! In this guide, we’ll dive into 7 top contenders, reviewing each based on performance, features, value, and user satisfaction. Whether you’re after blistering NVMe speeds or a reliable, cost-effective SATA upgrade, you’re sure to find a fantastic deal here. Let’s get your system flying!
Why Upgrade to a 500GB SSD?
If you’re still using a mechanical hard drive (HDD), you’re missing out. SSDs offer incredible advantages:
- Blazing Fast Speeds: Experience near-instant boot times, rapid application loading, and quicker file transfers.
- Enhanced Durability: With no moving parts, SSDs are more resistant to drops and shocks, making them ideal for laptops.
- Energy Efficiency: They consume less power, leading to longer battery life for portable devices and cooler running temperatures.
- Silent Operation: No noisy spinning platters means a quieter computing experience.
A 500GB SSD hits that perfect balance of affordability and utility for most users. It’s enough space for Windows and a good collection of software, games, and personal documents, giving you a noticeable performance upgrade without the premium price tag of larger capacities.
Our Top Picks: Best 500GB SSD for Cheap
Let’s take a closer look at each contender that made our list.
PNY CS900 500GB 3D NAND 2.5″ SATA III Internal Solid…
The PNY CS900 is a fantastic entry-level option for anyone looking to easily replace their old hard drive or boost an older system’s performance. It’s a no-frills, reliable SATA III SSD that delivers a noticeable improvement in daily computing tasks, from booting up your PC to loading your favorite apps. If you’re on a tight budget and just want a simple, effective upgrade, this drive is definitely worth considering. It truly offers a great way to get the best 500GB SSD for cheap.
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Key Features:
- Super-fast OS boot times and application loads.
- Exceptional sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 500MB/s.
- Superior performance compared to traditional hard drives (HDD).
- Ultra-low power consumption.
- Backwards compatible with SATA II 3GB/sec.
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Pros:
- Very affordable price point.
- Significant speed improvement over HDDs.
- Low power draw for laptops.
- Easy to install in most desktops and laptops.
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Cons:
- SATA speeds aren’t as fast as NVMe drives.
- Not ideal for cutting-edge gaming or heavy video editing (though perfectly fine for general use).
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User Impressions: Many users praise the CS900 for its straightforward installation and the immediate, dramatic performance boost it provides for older systems. It’s often highlighted as a reliable and cost-effective choice for basic upgrades.
fanxiang S101 500GB SSD SATA III 6Gb/s 2.5″ Internal…
The fanxiang S101 makes a strong case for being one of the best budget-friendly SATA SSDs on the market. It’s designed to give your computer a serious shot in the arm, boasting solid read/write speeds that will make your system feel snappier than ever. What really stands out, beyond its performance, is the inclusion of 3D NAND TLC chips for enhanced durability and a generous 5-year quality assurance, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
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Key Features:
- Achieves blazing 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, all-in-one PCs across Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.
- Comes with a 5-year quality assurance.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for a SATA SSD.
- Enhanced durability with 3D NAND TLC.
- Impressive 5-year warranty, rare for a budget brand.
- Broad compatibility for easy upgrades.
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Cons:
- Brand recognition isn’t as high as Samsung or WD.
- Might not hit peak advertised speeds under all conditions.
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User Impressions: Customers often express pleasant surprise at the performance and reliability of the fanxiang S101, especially given its price. The 5-year warranty is a frequent point of praise, reassuring buyers about its long-term viability.
SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State…
When it comes to SATA SSDs, the Samsung 870 EVO is practically royalty. It’s renowned for its indisputable performance, bulletproof reliability, and broad compatibility. While it might be a tad more expensive than some other 2.5-inch drives, you’re paying for Samsung’s pioneering technology, industry-leading endurance (up to 600 TBW), and sophisticated Magician software. If you’re looking for the absolute best 500GB SSD for cheap within the SATA category, and value top-tier quality, this is it.
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Key Features:
- Maximizes SATA interface limit with 560MB/s sequential read and 530MB/s sequential write speeds.
- Industry-defining reliability with up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty.
- More compatible than ever, tested for major host systems and applications.
- Easy upgrade process via standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor and migration software.
- Samsung Magician 6 software for drive management, health monitoring, and performance enhancement.
- From the world’s #1 flash memory brand.
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Pros:
- Best-in-class SATA performance and consistency.
- Exceptional reliability and endurance.
- Excellent compatibility and easy installation.
- Powerful software suite for optimization.
- Backed by a global leader in flash memory.
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Cons:
- Generally more expensive than other SATA options.
- Still limited by SATA interface speeds compared to NVMe.
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User Impressions: The Samsung 870 EVO consistently receives rave reviews for its rock-solid performance and reliability. Users love the seamless upgrade experience and the peace of mind that comes with a Samsung product. It’s often recommended as the go-to SATA SSD.
TEAMGROUP MP44L 500GB SLC Cache NVMe 1.4 PCIe Gen 4×4…
Stepping into the world of NVMe, the TEAMGROUP MP44L is an absolute speed demon. If your motherboard supports PCIe Gen4, this drive will blow away any SATA SSD with its incredible read/write speeds, making it ideal for gamers, content creators, or anyone who demands the fastest possible data transfer. What’s super cool is its innovative, ultra-thin graphene-coated label that acts as a heat spreader, preventing thermal throttling without needing a bulky heatsink (though it can work with one!).
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Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High-Speed Interface with sequential read/write speeds up to 5,000MB/s / 3,700MB/s.
- Performance more than doubled compared to PCIe Gen3.
- First product to introduce conductive graphene coating on aluminum foil to the SSD label for heat dissipation.
- M.2 2280 specification, suitable for Intel and AMD next-gen platforms (desktops and notebooks).
- Supports SLC Caching technology for enhanced computing performance.
- 5-year or TBW limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Incredibly fast NVMe Gen4 speeds for rapid loading and transfers.
- Innovative, slim heat dissipation solution.
- Excellent for high-performance tasks like gaming and video editing.
- Good 5-year warranty.
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Cons:
- Requires a compatible PCIe Gen4 M.2 slot; not for older systems.
- More expensive than SATA SSDs.
- May still benefit from a motherboard’s built-in M.2 heatsink for sustained heavy loads.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the sheer speed of the MP44L, noting dramatic improvements in game loading times and overall system responsiveness. The slim profile and effective cooling solution are also frequently praised.
SSK Portable SSD 500GB External Solid State Drives, up to…
This isn’t an internal drive, but if you’re looking for incredibly fast and portable storage, the SSK Portable SSD is a game-changer. Weighing just 36.6g and incredibly compact, it’s perfect for on-the-go professionals, students, or anyone needing quick access to large files across multiple devices. Its blazing 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen2 speeds mean you can transfer massive files in seconds, and it even supports 4K60Hz ProRes video capture directly from your iPhone!
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD with read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s.
- Data security features like S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology.
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for universal compatibility.
- Remains fast during large file transfers (up to 150GB) with SLC caching.
- Empowers 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture for iPhone.
- 2mm thick aluminum alloy case for superior heat dissipation.
- Impressively lightweight (36.6g) and portable (2.61.50.5 inch).
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Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- Very high external transfer speeds.
- Broad compatibility across devices (PC, Mac, smartphones, tablets).
- Excellent heat management.
- Ideal for content creation on the go.
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Cons:
- Higher price point compared to internal SATA SSDs.
- Not suitable for internal system upgrades.
- Capacity display can vary slightly between OS (Windows vs. MacOS).
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User Impressions: Users rave about the SSK Portable SSD’s compact size, robust build, and incredible speed. Its versatility with both USB-C and USB-A devices, and especially its iPhone compatibility, makes it a favorite among mobile creatives and everyday users alike.
FS810 500GB SSD, 2.5″ SSD SATA III 6Gb/s, Solid State…
The Fikwot FS810 is another solid choice for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly internal storage upgrade. This 2.5-inch SATA III SSD offers excellent performance, making your computer feel significantly faster with quick boot-ups and responsive application loading. Utilizing 3D NAND TLC technology, it balances high storage capacity, speed, and great value, proving that you can get a best 500GB SSD for cheap without cutting too many corners on quality.
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Key Features:
- Easy upgrade solution for laptops and desktops, replacing traditional HDDs.
- Excellent performance with SATA III interface up to 6Gb/s and read speeds up to 560MB/s.
- Adopts 3D NAND TLC technology for high capacity, faster speed, and excellent value.
- Super compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, and backward compatible with SATA Rev. 2.0.
- Comes with a 3-year service warranty and strict quality control.
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Pros:
- Cost-effective way to boost system performance.
- Good read speeds for a SATA drive.
- Durable 3D NAND TLC technology.
- Wide operating system and interface compatibility.
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Cons:
- Write speed not explicitly stated in the features (though generally similar to read for SATA).
- 3-year warranty is decent but shorter than some competitors (e.g., fanxiang, Samsung).
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User Impressions: Many users find the Fikwot FS810 to be a pleasant surprise, delivering on its promise of a quick and easy system upgrade. Its straightforward installation and noticeable speed improvements are frequently highlighted in positive reviews.
Western Digital 500GB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid…
Western Digital is a household name in storage, and their WD Blue SA510 500GB SSD continues that legacy of reliability. This 2.5-inch SATA internal solid state drive is designed for everyday computing tasks, offering a dependable boost to your system’s overall responsiveness. While it might not boast the cutting-edge speeds of an NVMe, it provides a very stable and trustworthy performance upgrade for those sticking with the familiar SATA interface. It’s a solid, no-nonsense choice for a reliable 500GB SSD for cheap.
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Key Features:
- Standard 500 GB storage capacity.
- Uses SATA drive interface (6Gb/s).
- Internal drive type with a 2.5″ form factor.
- Designed for desktop and laptop upgrades.
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Pros:
- Backed by a highly reputable brand (Western Digital).
- Reliable and stable performance for general use.
- Easy to install in most computers with a 2.5-inch bay.
- Good choice for general system responsiveness.
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Cons:
- Specific speed figures aren’t highlighted (though generally in line with other SATA III SSDs).
- May not offer the same peak performance as premium SATA drives like the Samsung 870 EVO.
- No advanced features like Magician software.
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User Impressions: WD Blue drives are known for their consistency, and the SA510 is no different. Users appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a trusted brand and report smooth, reliable operation, making it a safe bet for a dependable upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 500GB SSDs
Q1: What’s the main difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A1: The key difference is speed and interface. SATA (Serial ATA) SSDs connect via a SATA port and typically offer speeds up to around 550MB/s. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs, on the other hand, connect via a PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) slot (often in an M.2 form factor) and can reach speeds well over 5,000MB/s, making them significantly faster for demanding tasks like gaming or video editing. NVMe drives are generally more expensive and require a compatible M.2 slot on your motherboard.
Q2: Is a 500GB SSD enough storage for my computer?
A2: For most everyday users, yes, a 500GB SSD is quite sufficient. It provides plenty of space for your operating system (like Windows or macOS), essential applications (web browser, office suite, etc.), and a good selection of games or personal files. If you store a massive amount of large files (e.g., extensive 4K video libraries, huge game collections), you might eventually want a larger SSD or a secondary traditional hard drive for bulk storage.
Q3: How difficult is it to install an internal 2.5-inch SSD?
A3: Installing a 2.5-inch SATA SSD is generally quite easy! For desktops, you typically just need a SATA data cable, a SATA power cable (from your power supply), and a drive bay. For laptops, it usually involves unscrewing a panel on the bottom, sliding out the old drive, and sliding in the new one. Many SSDs come with migration software to help you transfer your old operating system and files seamlessly.
Q4: Can I use an external 500GB SSD for gaming?
A4: Yes, absolutely! An external 500GB SSD, especially a fast one like the SSK Portable SSD reviewed above, can be excellent for gaming. It allows you to carry your game library between different PCs or even play games directly from the drive, offering significantly faster loading times than external HDDs. Just ensure your computer has a high-speed USB port (like USB 3.0, 3.1, or 3.2) to take full advantage of the SSD’s speed.
Q5: What does “TBW” mean for an SSD’s reliability?
A5: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written.” It’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance, indicating the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its warranty expires or its reliability might start to degrade. For example, an SSD with 300 TBW means you can write 300 terabytes of data to it. For a 500GB drive, this is an enormous amount of data and far more than the average user will ever write, so don’t typically worry about hitting this limit.
Q6: Are cheaper SSDs less reliable than expensive ones?
A6: Not necessarily, but there can be a difference. Reputable brands, whether budget or premium, generally produce reliable drives. Cheaper SSDs might use slightly less advanced NAND flash memory (like QLC vs. TLC), have shorter warranties, or offer slightly lower sustained performance. However, for everyday use, even a budget-friendly 500GB SSD will be vastly more reliable and faster than an old HDD. Always check user reviews and the warranty period when considering a cheaper option.
Q7: Should I get a 500GB SSD or a 1TB SSD?
A7: This depends on your budget and needs. A 500GB SSD is a great balance of cost and capacity for most users, providing enough space for the OS and many applications. A 1TB SSD offers double the storage for more games, larger files, and future-proofing, but will naturally cost more. If you can stretch your budget, a 1TB SSD is often recommended for greater flexibility, but if you’re truly looking for the best 500GB SSD for cheap, the smaller capacity is perfect.