Deciding whether to buy a used SSD from Amazon can be tricky—on one hand, you might snag a high-capacity drive at a fraction of the cost; on the other, you risk inheriting someone else’s wear, hidden defects, or even counterfeit hardware. While Amazon’s return policy and customer reviews offer some protection, it’s crucial to know what to look for and which models are worth considering if you do go the pre-owned route. In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed seven top SSD options (both new and potentially available used) to help you make a smart, informed decision—without compromising your data or peace of mind.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Should I Buy A Used Ssd From Amazon Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Samsung 870 EVO 500GB SATA SSD for PC and Laptop Storage Upgrade
The Samsung 870 EVO is a legendary SATA SSD known for its rock-solid reliability and consistent performance. If you’re considering a used model, this is one of the safest bets—thanks to Samsung’s industry-leading build quality and long lifespan. It delivers near-max SATA speeds and handles everyday tasks, gaming, and even light content creation with ease.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sequential read/write speeds up to 560/530 MB/s
- ✓ Up to 600 TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating
- ✓ 5-year limited warranty (even on refurbished units if sold by authorized sellers)
- ✓ Compatible with laptops and desktops via standard 2.5″ SATA interface
Why We Recommend It
Samsung’s EVO series has earned trust over decades, and the 870 EVO continues that legacy. Even if bought used, its robust NAND and controller design mean it’ll likely outlast cheaper alternatives. Just verify the seller’s reputation and check for warranty coverage.
Best For
Users upgrading older systems or seeking a reliable internal SSD for daily computing, office work, or casual gaming.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional durability and longevity
- Consistently high performance within SATA limits
- Widely compatible and easy to install
- Strong resale value and trusted brand
Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives (but still fast enough for most users)
- Used units may have unknown write history
Customer Reviews
“I got this Samsung 500gb 2.5″ SATA SSD to upgrade from the 512gb HDD in an old HP Pavilion laptop (model HP 15-f233wm). It’s a perfect fit and works great. It’s made the old device MUCH faster and improved the overall performance immensely. I consider myself a functioning illiterate when it comes to tech, but even I could install it!”
“It’s a shame SATA III will likely be disappearing in the next 5 to 7 years—the form factor is so much nicer than NVMe and it is still more than fast enough for like 99 percent of people. There are SATA III drives available with real ECC error correction and super durable enterprise-grade drives. Trying to future-proof? Maybe go NVMe. But for reliability today? This is it.”
2. MOVE SPEED 1TB USB Drive, 570MB/S Read Speed External SSD with Dual Port Type C + USB 3.2
This compact external SSD from MOVE SPEED packs serious speed in a pocket-sized design. With dual USB-C and USB-A ports, it bridges the gap between modern phones, tablets, and older computers—making it ideal for travelers, students, or remote workers. Buying used here is less risky since external SSDs typically see lighter workloads than internal drives.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blazing 570MB/s read and 520MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Dual-interface design (USB-C + USB 3.2 Type-A)
- ✓ Works plug-and-play with Windows, macOS, Android, and smart TVs
- ✓ Durable aluminum casing with heat dissipation
Why We Recommend It
For a portable SSD, this model offers excellent value—even secondhand. Since it’s not constantly running inside a hot PC chassis, used units often retain most of their lifespan. Plus, the dual ports eliminate adapter hassles.
Best For
Students, freelancers, and mobile professionals who need fast, cross-platform storage for documents, media, or backups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-speed transfers for large files (videos, photos, games)
- No drivers needed—works across devices seamlessly
- Compact and lightweight for travel
- Affordable compared to branded equivalents
Cons:
- Not water or shock-resistant (unlike premium rugged SSDs)
- Limited warranty support if bought from third-party sellers
Customer Reviews
“This flash drive is great. I like the dual ports, which make it easy to use with both my phone and computer without adapters. The metal casing feels sturdy and keeps it cool during use. A reliable and compact storage option for work and travel.”
“Very easy to use—works great for storing files while resetting or upgrading your PC. Transferred 40GB of photos in under 2 minutes!”
3. DATO 1TB External SSD, ARES Amber Shield Portable SSD w/LED, Up to 1600/1500 MB/s, OTG-Supported
The DATO ARES Amber Shield delivers near-NVMe speeds in a portable USB SSD—perfect if you want desktop-level performance on the go. At just palm-sized and built with graphene cooling, it’s surprisingly robust for the price. Buying used is reasonable here, as long as the physical condition looks good and the LED indicator works.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-fast 1600MB/s read, 1500MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Built-in LED activity indicator
- ✓ Supports OTG for direct phone/tablet use
- ✓ Survives 4-foot drops and stays cool under load
Why We Recommend It
For budget-conscious buyers, this SSD offers incredible performance per dollar. Even pre-owned, it outperforms many new mid-range drives. The amber shield design isn’t just stylish—it helps dissipate heat during heavy transfers.
Best For
Gamers, videographers, and creators needing fast portable storage without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightning-fast for an external SSD
- Rugged build with drop protection
- Works with phones, laptops, and consoles
- Includes lanyard loop for portability
Cons:
- Brand is less established than Samsung or SanDisk
- No IP rating for water resistance
Customer Reviews
“Absolutely great to have this. I use it to hold all of my PC games because they load so fast. Looks great too. It has a lanyard holder on the end of it also, so you can carry it around with you.”
“This is a powerful SSD. And you can run all your games from it plus store files on it. It’s small so it will fit anywhere. Also can be used with cell phone or laptop. It’s a solid drive well worth the purchase.”
4. Amazon Business American Express Card
While not an SSD, this card is worth mentioning if you’re shopping for tech on Amazon. It offers 5% back on eligible purchases (including SSDs), no annual fee, and expense management tools—making it a smart companion for anyone buying used or new hardware regularly.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5% cash back on Amazon Business purchases
- ✓ No annual fee
- ✓ Detailed spending reports and employee cards
- ✓ Fraud protection and purchase alerts
Why We Recommend It
If you’re serious about saving on SSD upgrades—or any tech gear—this card pays for itself quickly. Use it to buy your next drive and earn rewards toward future upgrades.
Best For
Small business owners, IT managers, or frequent Amazon shoppers building or upgrading systems.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Significant savings on bulk or frequent purchases
- Easy application and instant digital card
- Integrates with accounting software
Cons:
- Only beneficial if you spend heavily on Amazon
- Credit approval required
Customer Reviews
“The Amazon Business Prime American Express Card is a strong option for small businesses that frequently make purchases from Amazon and its associated businesses, offering enhanced rewards and financing options for eligible Prime members with no annual fee. The card is less suitable for businesses that don’t shop primarily on Amazon.”
“It is a great card to have—we purchase almost everything on our card. The 5% back adds up fast!”
5. Amazon Gift Card Balance Reload
Reloading your Amazon gift card balance is a simple way to manage spending—especially when hunting for deals on used SSDs. Set up auto-reload to ensure you never miss a flash sale, and keep your budget in check while shopping for storage upgrades.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Add funds instantly with a credit/debit card
- ✓ Set up Auto-Reload when balance drops below a set amount
- ✓ No fees or expiration on gift card balances
- ✓ Secure and trackable spending
Why We Recommend It
It’s not an SSD, but smart shoppers use gift cards to lock in budgets and avoid impulse buys. Plus, you can often stack gift card discounts with SSD deals.
Best For
Anyone looking to control tech spending or take advantage of Amazon’s frequent SSD promotions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Full control over spending limits
- Works with all Amazon purchases
- No risk of overspending
Cons:
- Not a physical product—just a payment method
- Requires discipline to use effectively
Customer Reviews
“I recently used the Amazon.com Gift Card Balance Reload option, and I’m thoroughly satisfied with the process and the overall experience. The Gift Card Balance Reload feature is incredibly convenient for anyone who shops frequently on Amazon. It allows me to add funds securely and shop confidently.”
“In the quiet contemplation of our modern lives, where the complexity of desire meets the simplicity of provision, the Amazon Gift Card Balance Reload emerges as a tool of both practicality and subtle freedom. With a few deliberate clicks, one replenishes not merely a monetary sum, but the capacity to choose wisely.”
6. SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, IP65 Water and Dust Resistant
SanDisk’s Extreme Portable SSD is built for adventurers and pros alike. With IP65 rating, 3-meter drop protection, and carabiner loop, it’s one of the most durable external drives out there. Buying used is relatively safe—especially if it shows minimal wear—since these are designed to endure harsh conditions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fast 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- ✓ IP65 water and dust resistance
- ✓ Drop-tested up to 3 meters
- ✓ Includes carabiner loop for attachment
Why We Recommend It
If you need reliable storage for fieldwork, travel, or outdoor shoots, this SSD won’t let you down—even secondhand. SanDisk’s reputation for quality means used units often perform like new.
Best For
Photographers, videographers, hikers, and anyone needing rugged, high-capacity portable storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable and weather-resistant
- High-speed NVMe-level performance
- Trusted brand with global support
- Compact and lightweight
Cons:
- More expensive than non-rugged alternatives
- Used models may lack original packaging or accessories
Customer Reviews
“I picked up the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD as an upgrade from my older external hard drives, and it’s easily one of the best storage devices I’ve used. The speed difference alone makes it worth it—transfers that used to take minutes on my traditional hard drives now finish in seconds. Large files fly!”
“Well made and easy to use portable SSD. Nice bright blue color helps quick identification in a dark pack. Reasonable fast read and write speeds for a USB 3.2 product. Bought this SSD to transfer my photos from my camera when I am traveling. Light weight and small SSD make a great traveling storage solution.”
7. Fanxiang S101 256GB SATA III 2.5″ Internal SSD for Laptops and Desktops
The Fanxiang S101 is a no-frills SATA SSD that punches above its weight for the price. Using 3D NAND TLC chips (more durable than QLC), it offers solid performance for basic computing tasks. If you find a used unit in good condition, it’s a great budget-friendly upgrade for older machines.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 550MB/s read/write speeds
- ✓ 3D NAND TLC for better longevity
- ✓ 2.5″ form factor fits most laptops and desktops
- ✓ Low power consumption
Why We Recommend It
For users on a tight budget or upgrading legacy systems, this SSD delivers reliable speed without overspending. Just avoid heavily used units—check seller feedback and ask about usage history.
Best For
Students, home users, or anyone replacing an aging HDD in an older laptop or desktop.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Faster boot and load times vs. HDDs
- Energy-efficient and quiet
- Easy installation
Cons:
- Lower capacity (256GB may fill up quickly)
- Unknown long-term reliability (less established brand)
- No official warranty if bought used
Customer Reviews
“My PC is formatting this drive at a block rate of around 300mbps which is pretty standard. Formatting at this rate will take a little over an hour and I will monitor the drive’s temperature and test transfer rate. I’m going to go ahead and install an OS on the drive because I think it will perform better than my old HDD.”
“Even though it’s a random brand, it is so reliable—anyone questioning the bad reviews, it was most likely user error that caused them to put it as one star! Mine has been running flawlessly for 8 months.”
Complete Buying Guide for Should I Buy A Used SSD From Amazon
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating whether to buy a used SSD from Amazon, we prioritize brand reputation, warranty status, seller credibility, and drive health indicators. Stick to well-known brands like Samsung, SanDisk, or Crucial—they offer better consistency and are less likely to be counterfeit. Always check if the listing includes original packaging, accessories, and a clear description of usage (e.g., “lightly used,” “refurbished by manufacturer”). Avoid sellers with low ratings or vague descriptions. If possible, ask for S.M.A.R.T. data or proof of functionality before purchasing.
Budget Planning
Used SSDs can save you 20–50% off retail, but don’t let price alone drive your decision. A $30 “bargain” SSD with unknown wear could fail in weeks, costing you time and data. Set a realistic budget: for example, aim to spend at least 60% of the new price for a reputable used model. Use tools like Amazon’s gift card reload or business cards to stretch your budget further. And remember—external SSDs are generally safer used buys than internal ones, since they endure less continuous stress.
Final Thoughts
Buying a used SSD from Amazon isn’t inherently risky—if you’re smart about it. Stick to trusted brands, verify seller history, and prioritize drives with visible condition reports or return guarantees. For most users, a lightly used Samsung 870 EVO or SanDisk Extreme Portable offers the best balance of cost, performance, and peace of mind. And if you’re unsure, consider starting with a small-capacity used drive for non-critical tasks to test the waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to buy a used SSD from Amazon?
A: Yes—if you buy from highly rated sellers, check for warranty coverage, and avoid drives with unclear usage history. Stick to reputable brands and look for “Amazon Renewed” or “Sold by Amazon” labels for added protection.
Q: How can I tell if a used SSD is still reliable?
A: Ask the seller for S.M.A.R.T. status screenshots, check review photos for physical damage, and prefer models with high TBW (Terabytes Written) ratings like the Samsung 870 EVO. Avoid drives that show signs of heavy wear or missing components.
Q: Can a used SSD fail soon after purchase?
A: It’s possible, especially if the previous owner ran intensive workloads (like video editing or server use). That’s why we recommend choosing SSDs known for endurance and always backing up your data immediately after installation.
Q: Are external SSDs better to buy used than internal ones?
A: Generally, yes. External SSDs typically experience lighter workloads and cooler operating temperatures, meaning they retain more lifespan when resold. They’re also easier to test upon arrival.
Q: What should I do immediately after buying a used SSD?
A: Run a full diagnostic using tools like CrystalDiskInfo (Windows) or DriveDx (Mac), securely erase the drive, and perform a fresh OS install or format before storing important data.
Still weighing your options? Don’t rush—your data deserves protection. But if you find a well-documented used SSD from a trusted seller, it can be a smart, cost-effective upgrade. Ready to make the leap? Click any “Check Price” button above to explore current deals and compare listings. Your faster, smoother computing experience is just one SSD away!