Ready to give your computer a serious speed boost? If you’re tired of agonizingly slow boot times, sluggish application loading, or just need more responsive storage, upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the best decisions you can make. And when it comes to hitting that sweet spot between capacity and affordability, a 500GB SSD often reigns supreme. It’s usually enough for your operating system, essential applications, and a decent chunk of your files or games, all while keeping the price tag reasonable.
In this comprehensive best 500 GB SSD review, we’re diving deep into some of the top 500GB SSDs on the market today. We’ve got a mix of internal SATA drives for everyday upgrades, lightning-fast NVMe options for power users, and even super-convenient portable SSDs for on-the-go storage. Our goal is to help you cut through the noise and find the perfect storage solution that fits your needs and budget. Let’s get cracking!
Our Top 7 Best 500 GB SSD Picks
SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State
The Samsung 870 EVO is truly an all-star in the world of SATA SSDs, building on Samsung’s long-standing reputation for pioneering technology. This internal drive offers exceptional performance for a SATA interface, making it a fantastic upgrade for both desktops and laptops still relying on traditional hard drives or older SSDs. It’s known for its robust reliability and broad compatibility, ensuring a smooth transition and long-term dependable performance for everything from daily computing tasks to more demanding workflows like 8K video processing.
Key Features:
– Maxizes 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.
– Up to 600 TBW (Terabytes Written) under a 5-year limited warranty for industry-defining reliability.
– Broad compatibility tested for major host systems, chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices.
– Simple 2.5-inch SATA form factor for easy installation.
– Includes Samsung Magician 6 software for easy drive management, updates, and performance enhancement.
– World’s #1 flash memory brand with in-house produced components (DRAM, NAND, firmware).
Pros:
– Excellent performance for a SATA III SSD.
– Outstanding reliability and long lifespan.
– Comes with powerful and user-friendly Samsung Magician software.
– Very broad compatibility with various systems.
– Easy to install and upgrade.
Cons:
– Maxes out SATA III speeds, so it won’t be as fast as NVMe drives.
– Might be slightly pricier than some budget SATA alternatives.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 870 EVO for its straightforward installation and the immediate, noticeable speed boost it provides to older systems. Many highlight the peace of mind offered by Samsung’s reliability and the helpfulness of the Magician software. It’s often considered the gold standard for SATA SSD upgrades.
See it on Amazon here
PNY CS900 500GB 3D NAND 2.5″ SATA III Internal Solid
The PNY CS900 is a fantastic entry-level option if you’re looking for an affordable yet effective way to breathe new life into an aging laptop or desktop. This 2.5-inch SATA III internal SSD provides a significant performance leap over traditional hard drives, delivering noticeably faster boot times and application loads. It’s a no-frills, reliable workhorse designed for the everyday user who wants a simple, cost-effective storage upgrade.
Key Features:
– 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, beneficial for laptop battery life.
– Backwards compatible with SATA II 3GB/sec interfaces.
Pros:
– Very competitive price point.
– Significant speed improvement over HDDs.
– Low power consumption, great for notebooks.
– Easy to install.
– Reliable for general use.
Cons:
– Performance is standard for a SATA III SSD, not as fast as NVMe.
– Lacks advanced software features found with premium brands.
User Impressions: Customers often recommend the PNY CS900 for its excellent value. They appreciate how easy it is to install and how dramatically it improves the responsiveness of older machines. It’s frequently chosen as a budget-friendly option for simple system upgrades or as a secondary storage drive.
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SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s
For those who need robust, high-speed storage on the go, the SanDisk 500GB Extreme Portable SSD is an absolute standout. This isn’t just any external drive; it harnesses NVMe solid-state performance to deliver blazing fast read/write speeds that make transferring large files a breeze. Beyond its speed, its rugged design, offering impressive drop protection and water/dust resistance, means you can take your data almost anywhere without worry.
Key Features:
– 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 for extreme durability.
– Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment to bags or belts.
– Password protection featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption for data security.
– SanDisk Memory Zone app for easy file management and space freeing.
Pros:
– Incredible speed for an external drive.
– Extremely durable and ruggedized for outdoor use.
– Compact and lightweight design with a practical carabiner loop.
– Hardware encryption adds an extra layer of security.
– Ideal for photographers, videographers, and users who travel frequently.
Cons:
– More expensive than internal SATA SSDs of similar capacity.
– Performance can vary slightly depending on the host device and USB port.
User Impressions: Users rave about the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD’s incredible speed, especially when transferring large media files. Its tough, durable build is frequently highlighted as a major selling point for those who need reliable storage in challenging environments. The compact size and security features also receive high praise.
See it on Amazon here
SSK Portable SSD 500GB External Solid State Drives, up to
The SSK Portable SSD is another excellent choice for external storage, bringing impressive speed and compact portability to the table. This drive focuses on consistent, high-speed data transfers thanks to its 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen2 interface and intelligent SLC caching. What sets it apart are its thoughtful features like dual USB-C and USB-A cable support for broad device compatibility, efficient heat dissipation, and especially its support for iPhone 4K ProRes video capture, making it a dream for content creators on the go.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD read up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s.
– S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for data security and extended lifespan.
– Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for seamless cross-platform file transfers.
– Consistent 10Gbps speed during large file transfers (under 150GB) with SLC caching.
– Supports 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture for iPhone with low power consumption.
– 2mm thick aluminum alloy case for superior heat dissipation and premium feel.
– Extremely lightweight (36.6g) and compact (2.61.50.5 inch) for unparalleled portability.
Pros:
– Outstanding transfer speeds for an external drive.
– Excellent heat dissipation keeps performance stable.
– Dual cable compatibility (USB-C & USB-A) is highly convenient.
– Ideal for iPhone video creators due to ProRes support and low power draw.
– Incredibly portable and lightweight.
Cons:
– The 150GB SLC cache limit for sustained 10Gbps speed might be a minor consideration for extremely large, single-file transfers (though still very fast).
– Display capacity on Windows might appear lower due to different GB calculations.
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the SSK Portable SSD’s raw speed and its ability to handle demanding tasks like direct 4K video recording from iPhones. Its tiny footprint and sturdy aluminum build also frequently get positive mentions, making it a favorite for mobile professionals and multimedia enthusiasts.
See it on Amazon here
Western Digital 500GB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid
The Western Digital WD Blue SA510 500GB SATA SSD is a reliable workhorse designed for everyday computing, offering a noticeable upgrade from traditional hard drives. It’s part of WD’s popular “Blue” lineup, known for balancing performance and value. This 2.5-inch internal drive is an excellent choice for breathing new life into older desktops or laptops, providing faster boot times, quicker application launches, and an overall more responsive system. It’s a solid, dependable choice if you’re looking for a tried-and-true storage solution.
Key Features:
– Standard 500 GB storage capacity.
– SATA drive interface for broad compatibility.
– Internal 2.5″ form factor, fitting most laptops and desktops.
– Designed for reliable everyday performance.
Pros:
– Reputable brand with a history of reliable storage.
– Good value for a general-purpose SSD upgrade.
– Easy to install in most standard PCs.
– Improves overall system responsiveness significantly over HDDs.
Cons:
– Performance is typical for SATA III SSDs, not NVMe speeds.
– May not come with extensive proprietary software tools compared to some competitors.
User Impressions: Users often choose the WD Blue SA510 for its brand reliability and straightforward functionality. They appreciate its easy installation process and the instant performance boost it provides to their systems, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious upgrades without compromising on quality for standard use.
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Crucial P3 500GB PCIe Gen3 3D NAND NVMe M.2 SSD
If you’re looking for a serious speed upgrade and your system supports NVMe, the Crucial P3 500GB NVMe M.2 SSD is an excellent contender. This internal drive leverages PCIe Gen3 technology to deliver significantly faster sequential read/write speeds and much higher IOPS than traditional SATA SSDs. It’s an ideal choice for gamers, content creators, or anyone demanding quicker load times and snappier system performance. Plus, Crucial’s reputation for quality 3D NAND ensures robust reliability.
Key Features:
– NVMe (PCIe Gen3 x4) technology for superior performance.
– Up to 3500MB/s sequential reads for blazing-fast data access.
– High random read/write speeds (350K/460K IOPS).
– Performs up to 33% better than the previous generation of Crucial NVMe drives.
– Rated at MTTF (Mean Time To Failure) greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity.
– M.2 2280 form factor, compatible with modern motherboards.
Pros:
– Dramatically faster than SATA SSDs.
– Excellent value for an NVMe drive.
– Reliable 3D NAND technology.
– Compact M.2 form factor saves space.
– Great for gaming, content creation, and demanding applications.
Cons:
– Requires an M.2 slot on the motherboard with NVMe support.
– May generate more heat than SATA drives under heavy load (though generally within spec).
User Impressions: Users upgrading to the Crucial P3 frequently report an immediate and substantial improvement in boot times, game loading, and overall system snappiness. It’s highly praised for its solid performance-to-price ratio, making it a go-to choice for those making the jump to NVMe without breaking the bank.
See it on Amazon here
Kingston NV3 500GB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0
The Kingston NV3 500GB NVMe SSD is a compelling option for those seeking high-speed storage, especially if your system supports the latest PCIe 4.0 standard. While still providing excellent performance on PCIe 3.0, it truly shines when paired with a compatible motherboard, offering incredible data transfer rates ideal for gaming, heavy multitasking, and professional applications. Its M.2 2280 form factor makes it a sleek and space-efficient upgrade for modern desktop and laptop builds.
Key Features:
– Gen 4×4 NVMe PCIe performance for ultra-fast speeds.
– Ideal for high-speed, low-power storage solutions.
– M.2 2280 form factor.
– Available in capacities up to 4TB (this review focuses on 500GB).
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds, especially on PCIe 4.0 systems.
– Energy-efficient design.
– Compact M.2 form factor for easy integration.
– Great for demanding users, including gamers and content creators.
Cons:
– Full speed potential only realized on PCIe 4.0 compatible systems.
– Requires an available M.2 slot.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the Kingston NV3’s raw speed and responsiveness, especially those who can take advantage of PCIe 4.0. It’s often highlighted as a reliable and cost-effective entry into the high-performance NVMe market, delivering a noticeable upgrade for system speed and overall user experience.
See it on Amazon here
What to Consider When Choosing Your 500GB SSD
Selecting the best 500 GB SSD review for your needs isn’t just about speed. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Internal vs. External: Internal SSDs (SATA or NVMe) are for upgrading your computer’s primary storage. External SSDs are portable, great for backups, gaming on consoles, or moving large files between devices.
- SATA vs. NVMe: SATA SSDs are generally 2.5-inch drives, widely compatible, and offer speeds significantly faster than HDDs. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs, typically M.2 form factor, are much, much faster and connect directly to the motherboard via PCIe, but require a compatible M.2 slot.
- Form Factor: Most internal SSDs are 2.5-inch (SATA) or M.2 2280 (NVMe). Ensure your computer has the right slot.
- Reliability & Warranty: Look for brands with good reputations and solid warranty periods (e.g., 3-5 years). TBW (Terabytes Written) indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime.
- Price: 500GB is a sweet spot for price-to-performance, but prices can vary widely between SATA, Gen3 NVMe, and Gen4 NVMe drives, as well as external models.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is 500GB SSD enough for my computer?
A1: For most users, a 500GB SSD is an excellent sweet spot. It’s typically enough for your operating system (Windows, macOS), essential software, a good selection of games, and plenty of personal files. If you store a vast amount of large media files (like 4K videos or extensive photo libraries), you might eventually want a larger drive or a secondary traditional hard drive for mass storage.
Q2: What’s the main difference between a SATA SSD and an NVMe SSD?
A2: The main difference is speed and connection interface. SATA SSDs connect via a SATA cable and are limited to around 550 MB/s. NVMe SSDs connect directly to your motherboard via a PCIe slot (usually M.2) and can achieve speeds of 3,500 MB/s or even up to 7,000 MB/s (PCIe 4.0), making them significantly faster for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, or large file transfers.
Q3: Can I install a 500GB SSD in my old laptop?
A3: It depends on your laptop. If your laptop currently uses a 2.5-inch hard drive, you can almost certainly upgrade it to a 2.5-inch SATA SSD. If it’s a newer laptop, it might have an M.2 slot for an NVMe drive. Always check your laptop’s specifications or manual first.
Q4: How do I transfer my old data to a new SSD?
A4: Many SSDs come with migration software (like Samsung Magician for Samsung drives) that can clone your old drive’s contents to the new SSD. Alternatively, you can perform a fresh installation of your operating system on the new SSD and then manually transfer your personal files.
Q5: Will an SSD really make my computer faster?
A5: Absolutely! Upgrading from a traditional hard drive to an SSD is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. You’ll notice much faster boot times, applications opening almost instantly, and overall system responsiveness improving dramatically. Even upgrading from an older SATA SSD to a new NVMe can provide a noticeable bump, especially for demanding tasks.
Q6: What does TBW mean for an SSD?
A6: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance or lifespan. It indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it might start to degrade. A higher TBW rating means the drive is designed to last longer under heavy writing workloads. For a 500GB SSD, a TBW of 300-600 is very good for typical home use.
Q7: Are external 500GB SSDs suitable for gaming?
A7: Yes, many external 500GB SSDs, especially those with high-speed USB 3.2 Gen2 or Thunderbolt connections, are excellent for gaming. They can significantly reduce game loading times compared to external HDDs, making them a great option for console gaming (like PS5 or Xbox Series X) or playing games directly from the drive on a PC without taking up internal storage space.
Final Thoughts on the Best 500 GB SSD Review
Choosing the best 500 GB SSD review for your setup comes down to your specific needs. If you’re looking for an affordable and impactful upgrade for an older system, a reliable SATA drive like the Samsung 870 EVO or PNY CS900 is a fantastic choice. For users with modern systems craving blazing-fast speeds for gaming or demanding applications, NVMe drives such as the Crucial P3 or Kingston NV3 offer incredible performance. And for those who need rugged, high-speed storage on the move, the portable options like the SanDisk Extreme or SSK Portable SSDs are absolute game-changers.
No matter which you pick, upgrading to a 500GB SSD is a surefire way to revitalize your digital experience. Happy computing!