Hey there, fellow gamers! Ever find yourself waiting an eternity for your games to load, or for your PC to boot up? If so, it might be time for an SSD upgrade. When you’re searching for lightning-fast storage, terms like “Crucial best 120gb ssd for gaming” often pop up. While searching for a Crucial best 120gb ssd for gaming might be your starting point, the landscape of gaming storage has evolved, and for good reason!
Modern game installations can easily eat up 50GB, 100GB, or even more. A 120GB SSD, while fantastic for a boot drive and perhaps one or two smaller games, quickly becomes cramped. That’s why, while we understand the appeal of a budget-friendly 120GB drive, this guide expands to cover excellent Crucial options and other top SSDs that offer a more robust gaming experience. We’ve curated a list of 7 fantastic SSDs that promise to cut down load times, boost responsiveness, and get you into the action faster. Let’s dive in!
Why an SSD is Crucial for Gaming (Even if It’s Not 120GB)
Gone are the days when hard disk drives (HDDs) were your only option. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are a game-changer, literally. They offer significantly faster read and write speeds, leading to:
- Blazing-fast Boot Times: Your operating system will load in seconds.
- Rapid Game Loading: Say goodbye to long loading screens between levels or during game launches.
- Smoother Gameplay: Assets can load quicker, reducing stuttering in open-world games.
- Improved System Responsiveness: Everything from opening applications to transferring files feels snappier.
While a 120GB SSD can make a huge difference compared to an HDD, for serious gamers, a bit more capacity is often a smart move to accommodate multiple AAA titles and future proof your rig.
Our Top 7 SSD Picks for Gaming
Let’s get down to business and explore the drives that will elevate your gaming setup.
1. Crucial BX500 240GB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
The Crucial BX500 240GB is a fantastic entry-level internal SSD for anyone looking to ditch their old hard drive without breaking the bank. It’s a simple, reliable upgrade that brings noticeable speed improvements to everyday computing and light gaming. While not the fastest NVMe drive, its SATA interface makes it broadly compatible with older systems, giving them a new lease on life with faster boot-ups and quicker application loading.
- Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness
- 300% faster than a typical hard drive
- Improves battery life because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive
- Micron 3D NAND – advancing the world’s memory and storage technology for 40 years
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Excellent value for money
– Significant speed upgrade over traditional HDDs
– Broad compatibility with older laptops and desktops
– Energy-efficient, extending battery life in laptops
– Backed by Crucial’s reliability
Cons:
– SATA speeds are slower than NVMe
– 240GB capacity might still feel limited for multiple large games
– Not ideal for cutting-edge gaming performance
User Impressions: Users frequently praise the BX500 for its easy installation and immediate performance boost, especially for older systems. Many highlight its affordability as a key selling point for transforming sluggish PCs into snappy machines. It’s seen as a solid choice for a primary boot drive.
2. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Stepping into the world of NVMe, the Crucial P310 1TB offers a significant leap in performance over SATA drives. This PCIe Gen4 M.2 SSD is perfect for gamers and power users who demand faster load times and smoother multitasking. With a generous 1TB of storage, you’ll have ample space for your operating system, a robust game library, and all your essential applications. It’s also backward compatible with Gen3 systems, making it a flexible upgrade option.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking
- Spacious 1TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with standard Gen4 NVMe performance for casual gamers and home users
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles including ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun. Also backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems for flexible upgrades
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation. Improve performance for real world tasks like booting Windows, starting applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and working in applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users
Pros:
– Exceptional Gen4 NVMe speeds for quick loading
– Large 1TB capacity for extensive game libraries
– Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3, offering upgrade flexibility
– Excellent for both gaming and demanding productivity tasks
– Reliable performance backed by Micron quality
Cons:
– Requires an M.2 slot and PCIe Gen4 compatibility for full speed
– More expensive than SATA SSDs
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the P310’s incredible speed, noting dramatic reductions in game load times and overall system responsiveness. Its 1TB capacity is frequently praised as being “just right” for modern gaming needs, making it a highly recommended upgrade for PC and compatible handheld console gamers.
3. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
For gamers on the go or those who need extra storage for console gaming, the Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD is an absolute lifesaver. This external drive combines robust durability with impressive transfer speeds, making it ideal for storing large game files, media, and backups. Its IP55 water and dust resistance, along with drop protection, means you can take your game library anywhere without worrying about bumps or splashes.
- High-speed Performance: Designed for casual gamers and everyday use, this external SSD with up to 1050MB/s accelerates large file transfers, media editing, and backup processes outperforming traditional hard drives
- Built to Last: Perfect for travel and all types of weather with IP55 water and dust resistance. Plus, it’s drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters). This portable drive is designed for durability and reliability wherever you go
- Broad Compatibility: External drive connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A for easy and fast file transfers
- High-Capacity Storage: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more with this compact 2TB SSD. It’s perfect for students, everyday users, and anyone needing secure and reliable storage for their files
- Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image when you purchase and register your external drive
Pros:
– Massive 2TB portable storage capacity
– Rugged and durable design (IP55, drop-resistant)
– Fast 1050MB/s transfer speeds, great for external game storage
– Universal compatibility across many devices and operating systems
– Compact and lightweight for ultimate portability
Cons:
– External drives are generally slower than internal NVMe SSDs
– Requires a USB-C or USB-A port
User Impressions: Users love the X9 for its perfect blend of speed, capacity, and ruggedness. It’s a top choice for console gamers wanting to expand their library and PC users needing reliable external backup or secondary game storage. The peace of mind from its durability is a frequently mentioned benefit.
4. INLAND Professional 120GB SSD 3D NAND SATA III 6Gb/s 2.5″
If you’re still set on finding a true 120GB SSD for gaming, especially as a dedicated boot drive or for a single favorite game on a budget, the INLAND Professional offers a compelling, no-frills option. This internal SATA III SSD provides a significant speed upgrade over traditional HDDs, making your system feel much snappier without a big investment. It’s an excellent choice for breathing new life into older laptops or desktops with limited upgrade budgets.
- SSD Capacity 120GB. Ideal for mainstream PCs, laptops and ultra books for personal, gaming and business use
- Sequential Read/Write Speed up to 520MB/s and 410MB/s respectively; Random Read/Write 4K: up to 38k and 80k IOPS respectively
- SATA III 6Gb/s interface, faster boot-up, shutdown, application loading and file transfer
- 3D TLC NAND flash, resistant to shock, vibration, and movement. No overheat, No noise
- Performance may vary based on system hardware and configuration. 3 Year Limited Parts and Labor Warranty
Pros:
– Extremely budget-friendly 120GB capacity
– Significant speed upgrade for basic system tasks and light gaming
– Standard 2.5-inch form factor for wide compatibility
– Durable 3D TLC NAND flash construction
– No noise or overheating issues
Cons:
– 120GB is very limited for modern gaming libraries
– SATA speeds are much slower than NVMe alternatives
– Not a “Crucial” brand SSD
User Impressions: Customers often purchase this SSD for older systems, reporting a dramatic improvement in boot times and general responsiveness. It’s frequently recommended as a cost-effective way to get into the SSD market or for secondary drives where speed isn’t the absolute top priority.
5. Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read, USB 3.2 Gen2x2
For professional creators, serious gamers, or anyone needing ultra-fast external storage, the Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD is a powerhouse. Boasting incredible read and write speeds of up to 2100MB/s and 2000MB/s respectively, this drive handles massive files and game transfers with ease. Its rugged, IP55-rated design ensures your valuable data is protected even in challenging environments, making it ideal for field work or competitive events.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Designed for professional creators, this external SSD delivers fast data access with up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow. Unlike a hard drive, SSDs offer significantly faster performance
- Built to Last: Perfect for field work and all-weather shoots with IP55 water and dust resistance. Plus, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters). This portable drive includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection for on-the-go security.
- Broad Compatibility: External drive connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A for easy and fast file transfers
- Massive Storage Capacity: Store high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and current projects with this compact 1TB SSD, offering secure and reliable storage for professionals and content creators
- Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image when you purchase and register your external drive
Pros:
– Phenomenally fast external transfer speeds (USB 3.2 Gen2x2)
– Robust IP55 water/dust resistance and drop protection
– Excellent for large game libraries, 4K/8K video editing, and professional tasks
– Universal compatibility across various devices and OS
– Includes security features like password protection
Cons:
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port for full speed potential (otherwise speed is limited to Gen2, ~1000MB/s)
– Premium price point
User Impressions: Users are blown away by the X10 Pro’s speed, calling it a “game-changer” for transferring huge files quickly. Its durability is a significant plus for those who need reliable storage on location, and console gamers appreciate the fast game loading times directly from the drive.
6. Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen2x2
The Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD is another excellent choice for gamers and content creators seeking high-speed external storage. Offering read speeds up to 2,100MB/s, it’s designed to significantly reduce load times for games and accelerate file transfers. What truly sets the X10 apart is its exceptional IP65 dust and water resistance, along with an impressive 9.8 ft (3 meters) drop resistance, making it one of the most durable portable drives on the market.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Designed for creators, students and PC gamers, this matte blue external SSD delivers fast data access with up to 2,100MB/s read speeds. Unlike a hard drive, SSDs offer significantly faster performance
- Built to Last: Perfect for travel and all types of weather with IP65 dust and water resistance. Plus, it’s drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres). This portable drive is designed for durability and reliability wherever you go
- Broad Compatibility: External drive connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A for easy and fast file transfers
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more with this compact external 1TB SSD. It’s perfect for students, gamers, and everyday users needing secure and reliable storage for their files
- Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image when you purchase and register your external drive
Pros:
– Outstanding durability with IP65 rating and 9.8ft drop resistance
– Very fast 2,100MB/s read speeds for quick game access
– Generous 1TB capacity for a portable drive
– Broad compatibility with a wide range of devices
– Stylish matte blue finish
Cons:
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port for maximum performance
– Write speeds are not specified but generally slightly lower than read.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend the X10 for its robust build quality, stating it feels incredibly solid and reliable for on-the-go use. Gamers particularly appreciate the fast loading times for games stored on the drive, whether connected to a PC or console, while its resistance to the elements offers great peace of mind.
7. Crucial T710 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD, Up to 14,500 MB/s
For the absolute pinnacle of gaming performance, the Crucial T710 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD is in a league of its own. This drive is built for the future, leveraging PCIe Gen5 technology to deliver mind-boggling sequential read/write speeds of up to 14,900 MB/s and 13,800 MB/s respectively. If you want the fastest game load times, seamless multitasking, and to fully experience features like DirectStorage and advanced ray tracing, the T710 is your ultimate weapon. The integrated heatsink ensures optimal performance without throttling.
- WIN BIGGER: Experience Gen5 gameplay at the speed of thought. With up to 14,900/13,800 sequential read/write speeds, you’ll be faster out of the gate
- ENHANCE YOUR GAMING EXPERIENCE: Don’t miss out on the detailed atmospheres of your favorite games. Activate advanced ray tracing in applicable games to see all the reflections, fog and lighting to improve your gameplay
- POINT. CLICK. DONE.: Spend more time being creative and less time waiting on your latest renders. Included DirectStorage speeds up your creative process and allows you to create as fast as you can imagine
- LEADING GEN5 TECHNOLOGY: Crucial is a pioneer in blazing-fast Gen5 storage, built for maximum performance. The T710 showcases Crucial’s innovation and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming, creativity, and beyond
- STREAMLINE YOUR SYSTEM WITH A PREMIUM HEATSINK: The T710 offers an integrated heatsink to maximize heat dissipation for optimal performance without noisy fans or liquid cooling. A non-heatsink option is also available
- SSD ENCRYPTION SUPPORT: Protect your data with hardware encryption. Install the latest T710 firmware exclusively via Crucial’s official support page (Support > Firmware Updates) to enable encryption
Pros:
– Unrivaled Gen5 NVMe speeds for zero-compromise performance
– Massive 2TB capacity for an enormous game library
– Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management and sustained speed
– Supports DirectStorage for future-proof gaming
– Enhances ray tracing and overall visual fidelity in games
– Hardware encryption for data security
Cons:
– Requires a compatible PCIe Gen5 motherboard to utilize full speeds
– Premium price, making it an investment
– Might be overkill for casual users
User Impressions: Gamers and tech enthusiasts are astounded by the T710’s raw speed, reporting instantaneous load times and unparalleled system responsiveness. Its performance with demanding applications and AAA titles is frequently highlighted, with users agreeing it truly delivers on its promise of next-gen storage.
Choosing the Right SSD for Your Gaming Needs
Deciding on the perfect SSD involves weighing a few factors:
- Internal vs. External: Internal NVMe SSDs (like the P310 or T710) offer the fastest speeds for your primary OS and demanding games. External SSDs (like the X9 or X10 Pro) provide portability and easy console storage expansion.
- Capacity: While searching for a Crucial best 120gb ssd for gaming is a valid starting point, we recommend at least 500GB, but ideally 1TB or 2TB, for a decent game library to avoid constant uninstalling.
- Interface: SATA (BX500, Inland) is slower but more affordable and widely compatible. NVMe (P310, T710) offers vastly superior speeds but requires an M.2 slot. PCIe Gen5 (T710) is the absolute fastest but needs the latest motherboard.
- Budget: SSDs come at various price points. Determine what you’re willing to spend for a performance upgrade that fits your system and gaming habits.
Ultimately, the Crucial best 120gb ssd for gaming for you might not be 120GB at all, but one of these higher-capacity, high-performance Crucial drives that offer a much more satisfying and future-proof gaming experience.
FAQs About Gaming SSDs
Q1: Is a 120GB SSD enough for gaming?
A1: A 120GB SSD is generally only sufficient for your operating system and maybe one or two smaller games. For modern AAA titles, which can be 50GB to over 100GB each, it’s quickly limiting. We recommend at least 500GB or 1TB for a comfortable gaming experience.
Q2: What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A2: SATA SSDs connect via the SATA interface and offer speeds up to around 550MB/s. NVMe SSDs connect via the PCIe interface (often in an M.2 slot) and are significantly faster, with speeds ranging from 3,000MB/s to over 14,000MB/s for Gen5 drives. NVMe is preferred for gaming due to its superior performance.
Q3: Can I use an external SSD for gaming?
A3: Absolutely! External SSDs like the Crucial X9 or X10 Pro are excellent for storing games, especially for console gaming (PS4, PS5, Xbox) or for easily transporting your game library between PCs. While slightly slower than internal NVMe drives, they still offer much faster load times than external HDDs.
Q4: Do I need a heatsink for my NVMe SSD?
A4: For high-performance NVMe SSDs, especially PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 drives like the Crucial T710, a heatsink is highly recommended. It helps dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling which can reduce performance during intense gaming sessions or heavy file transfers. Many modern motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks.
Q5: How much SSD storage do I need for my gaming PC?
A5: For a dedicated gaming PC, a good starting point is a 500GB NVMe SSD for your OS and essential games, paired with a larger 1TB or 2TB SSD for your main game library. If budget allows, a single 1TB or 2TB NVMe SSD for everything is ideal.
Q6: What does “3D NAND” mean?
A6: 3D NAND (or V-NAND) is a type of flash memory where cells are stacked vertically in multiple layers. This allows manufacturers to pack more storage capacity into a smaller physical space and generally improves endurance and efficiency compared to older 2D NAND technology.
Q7: Will an SSD improve my frame rates in games?
A7: An SSD primarily improves game load times and system responsiveness. It won’t directly increase your frame rates (FPS) during gameplay, as that’s handled by your CPU and GPU. However, in open-world games or titles that stream assets dynamically, an SSD can reduce stuttering and texture pop-in by loading data faster, leading to a smoother perceived experience.
Conclusion
Upgrading to an SSD is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your gaming PC or console. While you might have started your search specifically for a Crucial best 120gb ssd for gaming, we hope this guide has shown you the wider landscape of excellent options available, including powerful Crucial drives with more generous capacities.
Whether you opt for a budget-friendly SATA drive, a blazing-fast internal NVMe, or a durable portable SSD, you’re in for a significant boost in speed and overall enjoyment. Don’t let slow load times hold you back – pick your perfect SSD and get back to dominating your favorite virtual worlds!