Are you tired of sluggish load times, slow file transfers, and games that take ages to launch? If you’re looking to give your PC or console a much-needed speed boost without breaking the bank, upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the smartest moves you can make. And when it comes to finding the sweet spot between capacity, speed, and affordability, a 500GB SSD often hits just right.
While Sabrent is renowned for its high-performance drives, many folks are specifically hunting for the Sabrent best 500gb ssd for cheap or other great value alternatives. You want that snappy performance, reliable storage, and a price tag that makes you smile. Good news! The market is brimming with fantastic options that deliver on all fronts.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into some of the best 500GB SSDs available today, focusing on those that offer excellent value and performance. Whether you’re a gamer, a casual user, or someone in between, we’ve got something for you. Let’s get your system running faster, shall we?
Our Top Picks for 500GB SSDs
We’ve rounded up seven excellent 500GB SSDs, including some stellar Sabrent choices, that offer a great balance of speed, reliability, and affordability. Let’s check them out!
1. SABRENT Rocket 4 Plus SSD with Heatsink 500GB PCIe Gen4
If you’re building a new PC or have a motherboard that supports PCIe Gen4, then the Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus is an absolute beast. It’s designed to push the boundaries of current technology, offering incredible speeds that will dramatically cut down on load times for games, applications, and large files. The included heatsink is a huge bonus, ensuring your drive stays cool even under intense workloads, making it a fantastic choice for serious gamers and creative professionals alike.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe 1.4 interface for extreme speeds.
- Sequential Read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s.
- Includes a high-quality heatsink for optimal thermal management.
- Features TLC NAND and DRAM for consistent performance.
- Comes with Sabrent Acronis True Image for Sabrent cloning software.
- Supports re-formatting for specific sector sizes (512e or 4Kn).
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen4 speeds suitable for gaming and demanding tasks.
- Integrated heatsink prevents thermal throttling.
- High endurance and reliability with TLC NAND and DRAM.
- Future-proof technology.
- Excellent for console upgrades (PS5 compatibility).
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Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard to achieve full speeds.
- Can be a bit pricier than Gen3 or SATA options.
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User Impressions: Users consistently rave about the insane speed improvements, especially for gaming and video editing. Many appreciate the pre-installed heatsink, noting stable temperatures even during heavy use. It’s often highlighted as a top-tier upgrade for those seeking the best performance.
2. WD_BLACK SN7100 500GB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
Western Digital’s WD_BLACK line is synonymous with gaming performance, and the SN7100 500GB NVMe SSD lives up to that reputation. Purpose-built for serious gamers, this drive offers impressive speeds and excellent power efficiency, making it ideal for both desktop rigs and gaming laptops. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-octane drive to store your favorite titles and ensure smooth gameplay, this one’s a winner.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 interface with up to 7,250MB/s read speeds (for higher capacities, 500GB will be slightly lower but still very fast).
- Designed with SANDISK’s next-generation TLC 3D NAND.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency than previous generations, great for laptops.
- Downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard software for performance optimization (Windows only).
- Manufactured by Sandisk Technologies.
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Pros:
- Excellent gaming performance and faster load times.
- Great power efficiency, beneficial for portable gaming devices.
- Reliable Western Digital brand quality.
- Software utility for monitoring and optimization.
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Cons:
- Specific speeds for the 500GB model might be slightly lower than advertised maximums (which usually apply to 1TB/2TB versions).
- Requires an M.2 NVMe slot.
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User Impressions: Gamers absolutely love the SN7100 for its snappy performance and reliability. Many report significantly reduced load times and a much smoother overall gaming experience. The power efficiency is also a big plus for laptop users.
3. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Looking to dip your toes into PCIe Gen4 speeds without spending a fortune? The Crucial P310 500GB SSD is a fantastic entry point. It offers solid Gen4 performance for quicker boot-ups, faster game loads, and smoother multitasking. Its broad compatibility, even with select handheld gaming consoles, makes it a versatile and wallet-friendly upgrade for many users who want better than Gen3 speeds.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 2280 interface.
- Delivers up to 6,600 MB/s read and 5,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Provides ample space for games, apps, and media.
- Broad compatibility with laptops, desktops, and select handhelds (e.g., ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go).
- Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems.
- Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable performance.
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Pros:
- Affordable way to experience Gen4 NVMe speeds.
- Noticeably faster than Gen3 drives for daily tasks.
- Highly compatible with various devices.
- Trusted Micron quality and reliability.
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Cons:
- While Gen4, it’s not the absolute fastest Gen4 drive on the market.
- Might be slightly more expensive than basic Gen3 NVMe drives.
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User Impressions: Reviewers often praise the P310 as a great value proposition for Gen4. Users see a clear performance bump over older drives and appreciate its easy installation and reliable operation for everyday use and casual gaming.
4. SABRENT 512GB Rocket NVMe PCIe M.2 2242 DRAM-Less Low Power Consumption
Sometimes, space is just as important as speed. The Sabrent 512GB Rocket 2242 is a fantastic option if you’re dealing with a compact system, like a mini-PC or certain laptops, where a standard M.2 2280 drive won’t fit. Despite being a DRAM-less and Gen3 drive, it still offers excellent NVMe performance for its size and power efficiency, making it a strong contender for the Sabrent best 500gb ssd for cheap in specialized small form factor applications.
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Key Features:
- M.2 PCIe Gen3 x4 interface in a compact 2242 form factor.
- DRAM-less design for lower power consumption.
- Supports Power Management (APST / ASPM / L1.2).
- Supports SMART and TRIM commands.
- Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, and Over-Provisioning.
- Includes FREE Sabrent Acronis True Image for Sabrent Software for cloning.
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Pros:
- Ideal for space-constrained devices due to its compact 2242 size.
- Low power consumption, great for laptops and battery life.
- Still provides significant speed improvements over SATA SSDs.
- Sabrent’s reliable firmware and support.
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Cons:
- DRAM-less design means slightly less sustained performance under very heavy, continuous write loads compared to drives with DRAM.
- PCIe Gen3 speeds are slower than Gen4 drives.
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User Impressions: Users searching for a compact M.2 solution are consistently impressed. They find it perfectly adequate for OS, everyday applications, and even some light gaming, especially given its small size and power efficiency. It’s a lifesaver for devices with limited M.2 slot lengths.
5. PNY CS900 500GB 3D NAND 2.5″ SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
Not every system needs the bleeding edge of NVMe. If you have an older laptop or desktop with a traditional 2.5-inch drive bay, the PNY CS900 500GB SATA III SSD is an excellent and incredibly affordable upgrade. It will breathe new life into an aging machine, offering dramatically faster boot times and application loads compared to a spinning hard drive. This is a classic “bang for your buck” option for those who simply need a reliable, fast storage solution.
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Key Features:
- 2.5-inch SATA III interface.
- Up to 550MB/s sequential read and 500MB/s sequential write speeds.
- 3D NAND technology for improved density and endurance.
- Ultra-low power consumption.
- Backwards compatible with SATA II (3GB/sec).
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Pros:
- Very budget-friendly way to upgrade an older system.
- Massive performance improvement over traditional HDDs.
- Easy installation into any 2.5-inch drive bay.
- Low power draw.
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Cons:
- Limited by SATA III speeds, which are much slower than any NVMe drive.
- Not suitable for M.2 slots.
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User Impressions: This drive is a huge hit for anyone looking to replace an old hard drive. Customers consistently report incredible improvements in system responsiveness, boot times, and application loading. It’s often recommended as a cost-effective way to extend the life of an older PC.
6. SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive
When it comes to SATA SSDs, the Samsung 870 EVO is practically royalty. It represents the pinnacle of SATA performance, reliability, and compatibility. If you need a 2.5-inch drive and demand the best possible speeds and endurance from that form factor, the 870 EVO is a standout choice. Samsung’s in-house components and Magician software ensure a premium experience, making it an undisputed all-star for any system that can’t accommodate NVMe.
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Key Features:
- 2.5-inch SATA III interface, maximizing SATA speed limits.
- Up to 560 MB/s sequential read and 530 MB/s sequential write speeds.
- Industry-leading reliability with up to 600 TBW and a 5-year limited warranty.
- Exceptional compatibility with major host systems and applications.
- Samsung Magician software for drive management and optimization.
- Built with Samsung’s world-renowned DRAM and NAND.
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Pros:
- Best-in-class SATA performance and consistency.
- Unmatched reliability and endurance for a SATA drive.
- Excellent compatibility and easy upgrade process.
- Premium quality with Samsung’s in-house components.
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Cons:
- As a SATA drive, it’s inherently slower than NVMe alternatives.
- Often priced slightly higher than other basic SATA SSDs.
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User Impressions: The 870 EVO is almost universally praised for its rock-solid performance, durability, and ease of use. Users appreciate the smooth operation, long lifespan, and the added value of the Magician software. It’s frequently cited as the go-to choice for SATA upgrades.
7. Western Digital 500GB WD Blue SN5000 NVMe Internal Solid State Drive
The Western Digital WD Blue SN5000 is a fantastic all-rounder, offering modern PCIe Gen4 performance that’s perfect for professional multitasking, creative workflows, and everyday computing. It strikes a great balance between speed and value, bringing that next-generation performance to a broader audience. With Western Digital’s reputation for quality and inclusion of their Acronis True Image software, it’s a smart choice for a dependable system upgrade.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface.
- Up to 5,500MB/s read speeds (for higher capacities, 500GB will be slightly lower).
- Western Digital nCache 4.0 Technology for efficient performance.
- Good endurance for daily creative work and multitasking.
- Includes Acronis True Image for Western Digital data migration software.
- PRO MULTITASKING: Smoothly switch between applications and projects.
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Pros:
- Good entry-level PCIe Gen4 speeds for daily tasks and light creative work.
- Reliable Western Digital brand.
- Useful Acronis data migration software included.
- Improved multitasking capability.
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Cons:
- Speeds are on the lower end for Gen4 drives, so it’s not for extreme power users.
- Requires an M.2 NVMe slot.
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User Impressions: Users find the SN5000 to be a solid, dependable performer that offers a noticeable speed upgrade over Gen3 drives. It’s often recommended for general computing, office work, and light creative tasks, providing great value for a Gen4 NVMe.
Choosing Your Best 500GB SSD for Cheap: What to Consider
Finding the right 500GB SSD for your needs involves a few key considerations. While the Sabrent best 500gb ssd for cheap might lean towards a specific model, it’s essential to look at your system and how you plan to use the drive.
- NVMe vs. SATA: This is the biggest differentiator. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs use the PCIe interface, offering significantly faster speeds (thousands of MB/s) compared to SATA (Serial ATA) SSDs (around 500-600 MB/s). If your motherboard has an M.2 slot and supports NVMe, it’s usually the better choice for performance. SATA drives are excellent and more affordable for older systems or secondary storage.
- PCIe Gen3 vs. Gen4: PCIe Gen4 drives are newer and offer roughly double the theoretical bandwidth of Gen3. To benefit from Gen4 speeds, you need a compatible motherboard and CPU. If your system is older or you don’t perform extremely demanding tasks, a Gen3 NVMe might be a more cost-effective option, still offering huge gains over SATA.
- Form Factor: Most NVMe drives come in the M.2 stick form factor (e.g., 2280, 2242). SATA drives are typically 2.5-inch, similar to laptop hard drives. Ensure your system has the correct slot or bay for the drive you choose.
- DRAM vs. DRAM-less: SSDs with DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) often offer better sustained performance, especially under heavy, continuous write loads. DRAM-less drives are more affordable and still perform well for most everyday tasks, but might see a slight dip in performance during very large file transfers.
- Heatsink: High-performance NVMe drives, especially Gen4, can generate heat. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, preventing thermal throttling (where the drive slows down to prevent overheating). Some motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can buy drives with them pre-attached.
- Reliability & Warranty (TBW): Look at the drive’s Terabytes Written (TBW) rating and warranty period. TBW indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before potential issues, reflecting its endurance.
Conclusion
Upgrading to a 500GB SSD is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your computer’s responsiveness. Whether you’re chasing the absolute fastest speeds with a Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus or looking for the best value in a classic SATA drive like the Samsung 870 EVO, there’s a fantastic option out there. We’ve highlighted several excellent choices, including drives that deliver the Sabrent best 500gb ssd for cheap performance, alongside other top brands like WD_BLACK, Crucial, PNY, and Samsung.
Consider your budget, your system’s compatibility, and your primary use case. Any of the SSDs on this list will provide a significant performance boost over a traditional hard drive, making your daily computing faster and more enjoyable. Happy upgrading!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why choose a 500GB SSD instead of 250GB or 1TB?
A1: A 500GB SSD is often the sweet spot for many users. It provides enough space for your operating system, essential applications, and a decent selection of games or creative projects without the higher cost of a 1TB drive. For those on a budget, it offers significantly more usable space than a 250GB drive, which can quickly fill up.
Q2: What’s the main difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs?
A2: The primary difference is speed and interface. SATA SSDs connect via a SATA cable and are limited to around 500-600 MB/s. NVMe SSDs connect directly to the motherboard via an M.2 slot using the PCIe interface, offering speeds several times faster (from 2,000 MB/s up to 7,000 MB/s or more). NVMe is generally preferred for performance, while SATA is more compatible with older systems and often cheaper.
Q3: Do I need a PCIe Gen4 SSD, or is Gen3 enough?
A3: It depends on your system and usage. If you have a newer motherboard and CPU that support PCIe Gen4 and you perform demanding tasks like 4K video editing, large file transfers, or competitive gaming, a Gen4 SSD will offer noticeable benefits. For most everyday tasks, general gaming, and older systems, a Gen3 NVMe SSD is still incredibly fast and a huge upgrade over SATA.
Q4: Are Sabrent SSDs reliable?
A4: Yes, Sabrent SSDs generally have a very good reputation for reliability and performance. They often use high-quality components and offer competitive endurance ratings and warranties. Many users consider them a strong alternative to more established brands, particularly for their value in the high-performance NVMe segment.
Q5: Can I install an M.2 SSD in any laptop or desktop?
A5: No, not all laptops or desktops have an M.2 slot. To install an M.2 SSD (which includes most NVMe drives), your motherboard needs to have a compatible M.2 slot. Check your motherboard’s manual or your laptop’s specifications before purchasing. Some M.2 slots only support SATA M.2 drives, not NVMe, so be sure to verify the compatibility.
Q6: How important is DRAM on an SSD?
A6: DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) on an SSD acts as a cache for the drive’s mapping table, which tracks where data is stored. Drives with DRAM generally offer better sustained write performance and more consistent speeds, especially under heavy, continuous workloads. DRAM-less drives are more affordable and perform well for most everyday tasks, but might see a slight performance dip during very large file transfers or intense multitasking.
Q7: What does “for cheap” really mean when looking for a 500GB SSD?
A7: When we talk about “for cheap” in the context of SSDs, it usually means getting the best possible performance and reliability at a highly competitive price point, rather than simply the absolute lowest price. It’s about finding excellent value—a drive that offers significant speed improvements and solid endurance without being prohibitively expensive. This often involves balancing features like Gen3 vs. Gen4, DRAM vs. DRAM-less, and SATA vs. NVMe to match your budget and needs.
Q8: Do I need a heatsink for my NVMe SSD?
A8: For most casual users and PCIe Gen3 NVMe drives, a heatsink isn’t strictly necessary. However, for high-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs, especially if you’re doing intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, or large file transfers, a heatsink is highly recommended. It helps prevent the drive from overheating and throttling its performance. Many newer motherboards include built-in M.2 heatsinks.