Is your computer feeling a bit sluggish? Does loading programs or games feel like an eternity? Chances are, your old hard drive is holding you back. Upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the most impactful changes you can make to breathe new life into your system. And for many users, a 500GB SSD strikes the perfect balance – offering ample space for your operating system, essential applications, and a decent chunk of games or media files, all without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into some of the best 500GB SSD options available on the market today. We’ve hand-picked a variety of drives, from lightning-fast NVMe options perfect for gaming and content creation, to reliable SATA drives for everyday use, and even super-portable external solutions. Let’s find the ideal storage upgrade for you!
Our Top Picks for the Best 500GB SSD
Here’s a closer look at each contender:
Kingston NV3 500GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0
The Kingston NV3 is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a serious speed upgrade without a hefty price tag. This internal M.2 NVMe SSD leverages the power of PCIe 4.0, meaning incredibly fast data transfer rates that will make your operating system boot in a flash and applications load almost instantly. It’s perfect for giving your desktop or compatible laptop a significant performance boost for everyday tasks, gaming, and even light content creation.
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Key Features:
- Ideal for high speed, low power storage
- Gen 4×4 NVMe PCIe performance
- Capacities up to 4TB (this model is 500GB)
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast PCIe 4.0 speeds for quick boot times and app loading
- M.2 2280 form factor is compact and easy to install
- Energy-efficient for laptops
- Excellent performance for its price point
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Cons:
- Requires an M.2 slot with PCIe 4.0 support for full performance
- Not suitable for older systems lacking M.2 slots
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Kingston NV3 for its remarkable speed improvement over traditional SATA SSDs, noting a dramatic difference in system responsiveness. It’s often highlighted as a great value for those stepping into the PCIe 4.0 world.
SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s
When you need high-speed storage that goes where you go, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is an absolute game-changer. This rugged external drive delivers impressive NVMe solid-state performance in a compact, durable package. Whether you’re a photographer needing to quickly offload shots on location, a student carrying large projects, or just someone who wants lightning-fast backups, its robust design and blazing speeds make it an indispensable tool. It’s built to withstand life’s adventures, too!
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Key Features:
- Get NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device & other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating (Previously rated for 2-meter drop protection and IP55 rating. Now qualified for the higher, stated specs.)
- Use the handy carabiner loop to secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
- Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.
- Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app.
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Pros:
- Excellent portable speeds for large file transfers
- Extremely durable with drop and water/dust resistance
- Compact and lightweight with a convenient carabiner loop
- Hardware encryption for enhanced data security
- Broad compatibility with various devices
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Cons:
- Higher price per gigabyte compared to internal SSDs
- Performance can vary slightly depending on the connected device
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User Impressions: Customers love the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for its rugged durability and impressive speed, making it a reliable companion for travel and fieldwork. Many highlight its compact size and peace of mind from the drop and water resistance.
SanDisk Ultra 3D NAND 500GB Internal SSD – SATA III
For those looking to upgrade an older laptop or desktop that doesn’t have an M.2 slot, the SanDisk Ultra 3D NAND SATA III SSD is a fantastic and highly compatible option. This drive offers a significant performance leap over traditional hard drives, delivering faster boot-ups, quicker application loading, and overall snappier system responsiveness. Its 3D NAND technology ensures greater endurance and lower power usage, making it a reliable and energy-efficient choice for everyday computing.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds of up to 560MB/s/510MB/s (Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon drive capacity, host device, OS and application. 1 megabyte (MB) = 1,000,000 bytes.)
- Faster app load and response times; faster boot-up and shut-down (As compared to 7200 RPM SATA 2.5” hard drive. Based on published specifications and internal benchmarking tests using PCMark Vantage scores.)
- Greater drive endurance and reliability, plus lower power usage with new 3D NAND technology
- nCache 2.0 technology delivers blazing-fast speeds
- Shock-resistant to help keep your data safe—even if you drop your computer
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Pros:
- Excellent upgrade for traditional hard drives
- Widely compatible with most laptops and desktops
- Good read/write speeds for a SATA drive
- Enhanced durability and reliability with 3D NAND
- Energy-efficient operation
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe SSDs
- Limited by the SATA III interface speed
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User Impressions: Users consistently report that the SanDisk Ultra 3D NAND dramatically improves the performance of older systems, transforming sluggish machines into fast and responsive ones. Its ease of installation and reliability are frequently praised.
SanDisk 500GB SSD Plus M.2 NVMe SSD – PCIE Gen
The SanDisk 500GB SSD Plus M.2 NVMe SSD offers an accessible entry point into the world of faster storage for systems equipped with an M.2 slot. While it utilizes PCIe Gen 3.0, it still offers speeds up to 5x faster than traditional SATA drives, making it a noticeable upgrade for daily computing, multimedia editing, and even some gaming. Its easy, one-screw installation makes it a breeze to slot into compatible desktops and laptops, quickly expanding your storage capacity and boosting overall system speed.
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Key Features:
- Feel the difference with speedy PCIe Gen 3.0 up to 2,400 MB/s, up to 5x faster than SATA drives. (1 MB=1,000,000 bytes. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon drive capacity, interface, host device, OS and application. Actual user storage capacity less. As compared to SanDisk SSD PLUS SATA Solid State Drive. Based on published specifications and internal benchmarking tests using PCMark Vantage scores.)
- Help maximize your file collection with up to 500GB storage capacity for your photos, videos, music, and important documents. (1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage capacity less.)
- Directly access your SSD’s health reports using the Western Digital Dashboard.
- Fits and installs easily with a one-screw application for many desktops and laptops with a PCIe Gen M.2 2280 slot.
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Pros:
- Significantly faster than SATA SSDs
- Easy to install in M.2 2280 slots
- Good performance for general use and gaming
- Western Digital Dashboard for drive health monitoring
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Cons:
- Not as fast as PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives
- Requires an M.2 slot on your motherboard/laptop
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User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight this SSD as a great bang-for-your-buck option for those seeking an NVMe upgrade without spending top dollar. Its noticeable speed improvements for everyday tasks are a common positive comment.
Kingston NV2 500G M.2 2280 NVMe Internal SSD | PCIe
The Kingston NV2 is another solid contender for the best 500GB SSD, particularly for laptop users and those with small form factor PCs. This internal NVMe SSD delivers impressive Gen 4×4 PCIe 4.0 performance, offering read speeds up to 3500MB/s. What makes it particularly appealing is its combination of high speed with lower power requirements and minimal heat generation, which is crucial for optimizing system performance and battery life in compact devices. It’s a versatile upgrade that brings modern speeds to a wide range of systems.
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Key Features:
- Ideal for laptops & small form factor PCs
- Gen 4×4 NVMe PCIe 4.0 performance with speeds up to 3500MB/s Read
- Lower power requirements & minimal heat to help optimize system performance.
- Available in a range of capacities up to 2TB to meet your data storage requirements.
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Pros:
- Fast PCIe 4.0 speeds, great for demanding tasks and gaming
- Energy-efficient and runs cool, ideal for laptops
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor for easy installation
- Strong performance-to-price ratio
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Cons:
- Requires a compatible M.2 slot for installation
- Actual speeds may vary based on system configuration
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User Impressions: Customers often praise the Kingston NV2 for its excellent value, delivering high-speed performance that significantly improves system responsiveness, especially in laptops where heat and power consumption are key considerations.
Kingston NV3 500GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD | Up to
This specific Kingston NV3 model stands out due to its unique M.2 2230 form factor, making it an ideal storage solution for highly specialized devices like compatible handheld gaming systems (e.g., Steam Deck, ROG Ally) and ultra-small form factor PCs. Despite its diminutive size, it still packs a punch with Gen 4×4 NVMe PCIe performance, offering high-speed, low-power storage that’s essential for portable devices. If you’re looking to upgrade the internal storage of one of these niche devices, this 500GB SSD is tailor-made for the job.
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Key Features:
- Ideal for high-speed, low-power storage
- Gen 4×4 NVMe PCIe performance
- Capacities up to 4TB (this model is 500GB)
- Upgrade storage solutions for compatible handheld gaming devices and SFF PC.
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Pros:
- Perfect for handheld gaming devices and SFF PCs due to 2230 form factor
- Offers PCIe 4.0 speeds in a compact design
- Low power consumption for portable devices
- Significant upgrade over stock storage in many compatible devices
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Cons:
- Niche form factor, not suitable for standard laptops or desktops
- Compatibility must be verified for specific devices
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User Impressions: Enthusiasts with handheld gaming consoles rave about this SSD, citing its perfect fit and the dramatic improvement in game load times and overall device responsiveness. Its specific form factor makes it a standout choice for those particular upgrades.
SETMSPACE External Hard Drive, External SSD 500G, Portable
The SETMSPACE External SSD 500G is a stylish and speedy solution for anyone needing portable, high-performance storage. With its unique carbon fiber imitation surface and IML process, it’s not just durable but also looks premium. More importantly, it delivers perfect speeds for backup, reaching up to 1030MB/s read thanks to USB 3.2 Gen2 and UASP acceleration. Its broad compatibility with Windows, Linux, Mac OS, gaming consoles, and even mobile devices, coupled with a durable 2-in-1 cable, makes it an incredibly versatile and reliable partner for all your data needs, without the worry of overheating.
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Key Features:
- 【High-End and Unique Appearance】External hard drive’s surface imitates carbon fiber and uses the IML process which is also used in the automotive industry. That makes the housing beautiful, scratch resistant, dirt-proof and durable.
- 【Perfect Speed As Back-Up】The external hard drive adopts the transmission standard of USB 3.2Gen2 and uses the UASP acceleration protocol. The max read speed we got on an Intel platform reaches 1030MB/s. Highly recommended for home and office using.
- 【Durable USB Cable】The portable hard drive comes with a 2-in-1 durable braided cable. With type A and type C plug, you can use the SSD on all hosts in the market.
- 【Reassuring Compatibility】Portable hard drive is compatible with three major computer systems, Windows, Linux and Mac OS. So it can used on different hosts, such as PCs, laptops, gaming consoles, cell phones, tablets and so on. Enjoy the technology of life and work!
- 【Don’t Get Hot】Thanks to the good heat dissipation material and aluminum alloy frame, the SSD maintains good heat dissipation. External SSD keeps ordinary temperatures while transfers data. What a reliable partner.
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Pros:
- Stylish and durable design with scratch and dirt resistance
- Very fast external transfer speeds for backups and large files
- Excellent universal compatibility with various devices and operating systems
- Includes a versatile 2-in-1 USB-A/USB-C cable
- Good heat dissipation, stays cool during operation
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Cons:
- May not be as robust as some ruggedized external SSDs
- Performance may vary based on host device’s USB port capabilities
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User Impressions: Users are impressed by the SETMSPACE external SSD’s sleek design and the real-world speed it delivers for backups and transfers. Its wide compatibility and the thoughtful inclusion of both USB-A and USB-C connectors are highly appreciated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I choose a 500GB SSD over a traditional hard drive (HDD)?
A1: SSDs offer significantly faster boot times, application loading, and overall system responsiveness compared to HDDs. They also have no moving parts, making them more durable, quieter, and more energy-efficient. A 500GB SSD provides a great balance of capacity for your OS, essential software, and some personal files without a huge cost.
Q2: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs? Which one is better?
A2: SATA SSDs connect via the SATA interface and typically offer speeds up to around 550MB/s. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs connect via the PCIe interface and are much faster, with speeds often reaching several thousands of MB/s. NVMe is generally “better” for performance-intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, or large file transfers, but SATA SSDs are still a huge upgrade from HDDs and are more compatible with older systems.
Q3: Is 500GB enough storage for a gaming PC?
A3: For a gaming PC, 500GB is often sufficient for your operating system and a handful of your most frequently played games. However, modern games can be very large (often 50GB-100GB+ each), so if you plan on having a vast library installed simultaneously, you might want to consider a larger SSD (1TB+) or pair your 500GB SSD with a larger HDD for game storage.
Q4: Can I install an internal SSD in my laptop?
A4: Many laptops, especially newer ones, support M.2 NVMe SSDs, which are small, stick-like drives. Older laptops typically use 2.5-inch SATA SSDs. It’s best to check your laptop’s specifications or open it up to see what type of slot it has before purchasing an internal SSD. Installation is usually straightforward, often requiring just a single screw.
Q5: What are the benefits of an external 500GB SSD?
A5: External 500GB SSDs offer high-speed, portable storage. They are excellent for fast backups, transferring large files between computers, running portable applications, or expanding storage for devices like gaming consoles or tablets. Their durability and compact size make them ideal for on-the-go professionals or students.
Q6: Do I need to format a new SSD before using it?
A6: If you’re installing an operating system on a new internal SSD, the installation process will typically handle the formatting for you. If you’re adding it as a secondary drive or using an external SSD, you might need to initialize and format it through your operating system’s disk management tools before it appears and can be used.
Q7: How long do 500GB SSDs last?
A7: SSDs have a finite number of write cycles, but for average users, this limit is extremely high. Most modern 500GB SSDs are rated for hundreds of terabytes written (TBW), meaning they can reliably last for many years, often exceeding the lifespan of the computer they are installed in. It’s highly unlikely you’ll “wear out” an SSD through normal use.
Upgrading to one of the best 500GB SSDs on this list is a smart move for anyone looking to revitalize their computer. Whether you prioritize blazing-fast internal speeds, rugged portability, or broad compatibility, there’s a 500GB SSD out there that fits your needs and budget. Make the switch and experience a whole new level of speed and responsiveness!