Is your computer feeling sluggish? Are those loading screens taking an eternity? Upgrading to an SSD, especially a speedy M.2 NVMe drive, is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to breathe new life into an aging system or complete a new budget build. While high-capacity SSDs can be pricey, you don’t always need terabytes of storage, especially if you’re just looking for a lightning-fast boot drive or a place to store your most-played games. That’s where the best budget 250GB M.2 SSD comes into play!
A 250GB M.2 NVMe SSD offers a fantastic balance of performance and affordability. It’s often enough space for your operating system, essential applications, and a handful of your favorite games, dramatically cutting down boot times and application loading. In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the top contenders for the best budget 250GB M.2 SSD drives, helping you find the perfect blend of speed and value. Let’s dive in!
Our Top Picks for the Best Budget 250GB M.2 SSDs
1. SanDisk 250GB SSD Plus M.2 NVMe SSD
The SanDisk SSD Plus is a solid entry-level NVMe drive that punches above its weight in the budget category. If you’re currently stuck with a traditional hard drive or even an older SATA SSD, this SanDisk drive will feel like a night-and-day difference. It’s designed for easy installation and delivers reliable PCIe Gen 3.0 speeds, making it an excellent choice for a snappy boot drive or for upgrading an older laptop.
- Key Features:
- Speedy PCIe Gen 3.0 interface (up to 2,400 MB/s read)
- 250GB storage capacity for OS, apps, and some games
- Western Digital Dashboard for drive health monitoring
- Easy one-screw installation for M.2 2280 slots
- Pros:
- Noticeable speed improvement over SATA SSDs and HDDs
- Very easy to install
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks
- Comes with useful monitoring software
- Cons:
- PCIe Gen 3.0 speeds won’t match newer Gen 4 drives
- Lower write speeds compared to some competitors
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise this drive for its excellent value and significant performance boost for basic computing needs. Many highlight its simplicity and reliability as key selling points, making it a favorite for budget-conscious upgrades.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Patriot Memory P400 Lite M.2 PCIe Gen 4 x4 250GB
Don’t let the “Lite” in its name fool you; the Patriot Memory P400 Lite brings impressive PCIe Gen 4 speeds to the budget segment. This drive is a fantastic option if your system supports PCIe Gen 4 and you want to experience faster data transfer without splurging on high-end NVMe drives. Its slim Graphene heatshield is a nice touch, helping maintain performance under load.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 x4 controller for next-gen speeds
- Sequential Read up to 3,200MB/s; Write up to 1,300MB/s
- End-to-end data path protection for integrity
- High-efficiency slim Graphene heatshield included
- Pros:
- Excellent sequential read speeds for a budget Gen 4 drive
- Graphene heatshield helps with thermal management
- Great value for an entry-level PCIe Gen 4 SSD
- Cons:
- Write speeds are moderate for a Gen 4 drive
- May not reach its full potential on PCIe Gen 3 systems
- User Impressions: Many users are pleasantly surprised by the performance of the P400 Lite, especially given its price point. It’s often recommended for those building new systems with Gen 4 support looking for an affordable primary drive.
- See it on Amazon here
3. LinkMore XE400 250GB M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 NVMe 1.4 Internal
The LinkMore XE400 is another strong contender in the budget PCIe Gen 4 market, offering impressive sequential read speeds that will dramatically reduce loading times. Manufactured in Taiwan, it emphasizes reliable components and a durable build. This drive is perfect for users seeking a significant speed bump for their operating system and frequently accessed applications without a hefty price tag.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe 1.4 interface for high performance
- Sequential read speeds up to 4650MB/s; write up to 1900MB/s (Note: speeds may vary based on system and capacity)
- M.2 2280 form factor for broad compatibility
- Made in Taiwan with carefully selected chips for durability
- Pros:
- Very high read speeds for its price class (if your system supports it)
- Good balance of price and performance for a Gen 4 drive
- Compact M.2 2280 design fits most modern PCs and laptops
- Cons:
- Brand might be less familiar to some users
- Write speeds are good but not top-tier for Gen 4
- User Impressions: Users report excellent performance, especially in terms of boot times and game loading, often noting it performs well above expectations for a budget drive. Its Gen 4 capability is a major draw.
- See it on Amazon here
4. TEAMGROUP MP33 256GB SLC Cache 3D NAND TLC NVMe 1.3
The TEAMGROUP MP33 is a well-regarded budget-friendly NVMe SSD that offers a significant performance upgrade over traditional SATA drives. Utilizing SLC Cache and 3D NAND TLC, it provides consistent speeds suitable for a variety of tasks, from everyday computing to handling larger files like game data and multimedia. It’s an ideal choice for a primary boot drive or as a fast storage solution for a few demanding applications.
- Key Features:
- NVMe 1.3 interface with SLC Cache and 3D NAND TLC
- Transfer performance up to 5 times higher than SATA III interface
- M.2 2280 specification for Intel and AMD platforms
- Suitable for both desktop and notebook PCs
- Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Great for reducing loading times in games and software
- Widely compatible with modern systems
- Reliable performance for a budget drive
- Cons:
- PCIe Gen 3.0 speeds are not as fast as Gen 4 alternatives
- Performance may dip slightly during very large, sustained writes
- User Impressions: This drive is a consistent favorite among budget builders. Users frequently mention its ease of installation and the immediate, noticeable speed boost it provides for their systems, making it a go-to for affordable upgrades.
- See it on Amazon here
5. WD_BLACK 250GB SN770 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
For gamers on a budget, the WD_BLACK SN770 offers a taste of high-end performance without the steep price tag. While its top-tier speeds (up to 5,150MB/s) are typically for higher capacities (1TB and 2TB models), the 250GB version still provides formidable PCIe Gen 4 speeds that drastically improve game load times and overall system responsiveness. It’s built for gaming, supporting future technologies like Microsoft’s DirectStorage.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 interface (backward compatible with Gen3)
- Designed to fuel in-game responsiveness and smooth streaming
- Supports Microsoft’s DirectStorage technology
- WD_BLACK Dashboard for performance optimization and health monitoring
- Pros:
- Optimized for gaming performance
- Excellent build quality from a trusted brand
- Good value for an entry-level gaming NVMe
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is a useful tool
- Cons:
- 250GB capacity limits the number of games you can install
- Peak advertised speeds are for higher capacities
- User Impressions: Gamers love the SN770 for its noticeable impact on load times and overall game fluidity. Users often highlight the brand’s reliability and the peace of mind that comes with using a WD_BLACK product, even at the budget tier.
- See it on Amazon here
6. SAMSUNG 970 EVO Plus SSD 250GB NVMe M.2 Internal Solid
Even though the Samsung 970 EVO Plus is a PCIe Gen 3.0 drive, it often outperforms many entry-level Gen 4 drives in real-world scenarios due to Samsung’s innovative V-NAND technology and refined controller. This drive is a powerhouse for its generation, offering exceptional sequential read/write speeds and robust performance optimization through Samsung Magician software. It’s a premium experience in a budget-friendly capacity.
- Key Features:
- Innovative V-NAND Technology for enhanced performance
- PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 NVMe 1.3 interface
- Breakthrough Sequential Read/Write: up to 3,500MB/s and 3,300MB/s (for higher capacities, 250GB will be slightly lower but still very fast)
- Samsung Magician Software for optimization and data security
- Dynamic Thermal Guard for optimal operating temperatures
- Pros:
- Class-leading PCIe Gen 3.0 performance
- Excellent reliability and durability
- Feature-rich Samsung Magician software
- Superior thermal management for sustained performance
- Cons:
- Still a Gen 3 drive in an increasingly Gen 4 world
- Can be slightly pricier than other budget 250GB options
- User Impressions: Consistently praised for its top-tier Gen 3 performance and Samsung’s reputation for quality. Users frequently commend its speed, reliability, and the usefulness of the Magician software.
- See it on Amazon here
7. OEM Samsung PM9B1 256GB M.2 PCI-e GEN 4X4 NVME SSD
The OEM Samsung PM9B1 offers a compelling package for those seeking genuine Samsung performance at an unbeatable price. As an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) drive, it’s typically sold without retail packaging, keeping costs down. This Gen 4×4 NVMe SSD provides excellent speeds and reliability, making it a fantastic choice for a main drive in a new build or as a zippy upgrade for compatible laptops and desktops.
- Key Features:
- Capacity: 256GB
- Interface: M.2 2280 PCIe NVME Gen 4×4 SSD
- Compact dimension: 22mm x 80mm x 2.38mm
- Compatible with most laptops and desktops supporting M.2 2280 PCIe NVMe
- Genuine Samsung reliability
- Pros:
- True PCIe Gen 4×4 performance from Samsung
- Excellent value for a genuine Samsung NVMe drive
- Compact and widely compatible M.2 2280 form factor
- Very reliable due to Samsung’s engineering
- Cons:
- Comes in bulk packaging (no retail box, screws, or cables)
- Warranty might be through the OEM seller, not Samsung directly
- User Impressions: Users are generally thrilled to get a Samsung Gen 4 NVMe at such an affordable price. They report impressive speeds and consistent performance, often highlighting the ‘bang for buck’ factor, despite the basic packaging.
- See it on Amazon here
Conclusion
Choosing the best budget 250GB M.2 SSD means finding the sweet spot between speed, capacity, and price. Whether you opt for a tried-and-true PCIe Gen 3 option like the TEAMGROUP MP33 or Samsung 970 EVO Plus, or step into the world of PCIe Gen 4 with the Patriot P400 Lite, LinkMore XE400, WD_BLACK SN770, or OEM Samsung PM9B1, you’re in for a significant performance upgrade. These drives are perfect for making your system feel snappier, reducing load times, and getting you back to what you love doing faster. Happy upgrading!
FAQ Section
Q1: What is an M.2 SSD and how is it different from a SATA SSD?
A1: An M.2 SSD is a small, rectangular solid-state drive that plugs directly into an M.2 slot on your motherboard. Unlike traditional SATA SSDs, which use a cable connection, M.2 drives are much more compact. M.2 drives can use either the SATA interface (similar speed to 2.5-inch SATA SSDs) or the NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) interface, which is significantly faster because it uses the PCIe bus. All the drives in our “best budget 250GB M.2 SSD” list are NVMe for maximum performance.
Q2: Is 250GB enough storage for a primary drive?
A2: For many users, 250GB is perfectly adequate as a primary boot drive. It’s typically enough space for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux), essential software, and a few of your most frequently played games or applications. If you have a large library of games, media, or demanding software, you might want to consider a larger secondary drive (either another SSD or a traditional hard drive) for bulk storage.
Q3: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen 3 and PCIe Gen 4 M.2 SSDs?
A3: PCIe Gen 4 is the newer generation of the Peripheral Component Interconnect Express interface, offering roughly double the bandwidth of PCIe Gen 3. This means PCIe Gen 4 SSDs can achieve significantly higher sequential read and write speeds (e.g., 5,000-7,000 MB/s for Gen 4 vs. 3,000-3,500 MB/s for Gen 3). To take full advantage of a PCIe Gen 4 SSD, your motherboard and CPU must support PCIe Gen 4. If your system only supports Gen 3, a Gen 4 SSD will still work but will operate at Gen 3 speeds.
Q4: How do I install an M.2 SSD?
A4: Installing an M.2 SSD is generally straightforward. You’ll need an M.2 slot on your motherboard. Simply open your PC case (or laptop access panel), locate the M.2 slot (it looks like a small horizontal slot with a screw hole at the end), gently insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle, and then push it down until it’s flat. Secure it with the small screw provided with your motherboard (or the SSD itself). After installation, you’ll need to initialize and format the drive in your operating system’s Disk Management utility.
Q5: Are budget M.2 SSDs reliable?
A5: Yes, generally budget M.2 SSDs from reputable brands are quite reliable for everyday use. While they might not offer the same longevity ratings (TBW – Terabytes Written) or advanced features as high-end drives, they are more than sufficient for a typical user’s lifespan of a PC. Always check user reviews and brand reputation, but modern SSD technology is very robust.
Q6: Will a budget 250GB M.2 SSD improve my gaming performance?
A6: Absolutely! While an SSD won’t directly increase your game’s frame rate (that’s mostly up to your CPU and GPU), it will drastically reduce game loading times, texture pop-in, and level transitions. For games with large open worlds or frequent loading screens, the improvement is very noticeable and makes the gaming experience much smoother.
Q7: What should I look for when buying a budget 250GB M.2 SSD?
A7: When shopping for the best budget 250GB M.2 SSD, consider a few key things:
1. Interface (PCIe Gen 3 vs. Gen 4): Match it to your system’s capabilities.
2. Sequential Read/Write Speeds: Higher numbers mean faster data transfer.
3. Controller & NAND Type: These influence performance and longevity (e.g., TLC vs. QLC).
4. Brand Reputation: Trusted brands often offer better reliability and support.
5. Heat Management: Some drives come with heatsinks or graphene pads, which can be beneficial, especially for Gen 4 drives.
6. Warranty: A good warranty provides peace of mind.