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If you’re wondering whether you should buy an SSD for gaming, the short answer is a resounding yes. Upgrading to a solid-state drive dramatically improves game load times, reduces stuttering in open-world titles, and enhances overall system responsiveness. Whether you’re building a new gaming rig or expanding storage on your PS5, investing in a high-quality SSD is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the best SSDs for gaming in 2024—covering speed, compatibility, value, and real-world performance—so you can make an informed decision that fits your setup and budget.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Should You Buy An Ssd Got Gaming Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink
The WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB with heatsink is a powerhouse NVMe SSD built specifically for gamers who demand top-tier performance and reliability. With blazing read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, this drive slashes game load times and ensures smooth gameplay even in the most demanding titles.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 interface delivering up to 7,300 MB/s read and 6,300 MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Integrated heatsink prevents thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions
- ✓ 2TB capacity provides ample space for dozens of AAA games
- ✓ Built with SanDisk TLC 3D NAND for enhanced durability and longevity
- ✓ Optimized firmware for low latency and consistent performance under load
Why We Recommend It
This SSD strikes the perfect balance between raw speed, thermal management, and storage capacity. Whether you’re installing it in a high-end gaming PC or using it as primary storage, the SN850X with heatsink delivers elite performance without compromise.
Best For
Enthusiast PC gamers and content creators who need maximum speed, large storage, and reliable thermal performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds that max out PCIe Gen4 bandwidth
- Heatsink design keeps temperatures in check during heavy use
- Reliable performance with strong endurance ratings
- Easy installation with M.2 2280 form factor
Cons:
- Higher price per GB compared to budget options
- Overkill for casual users or older systems without PCIe Gen4 support
Customer Reviews
“Upgraded to the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe from a Gen 3 SSD, and the difference is massive. This drive delivers exactly what it promises — insane speeds, great thermal performance, and rock-solid reliability.”
“The 1TB WD_BLACK SN850X was one of the best upgrades I made to my PC. Installation in M.2 format was quick and easy, and I noticed the difference from the very first boot: game loading times were drastically reduced, and the system responded with impressive smoothness.”
2. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD (No Heatsink)
The non-heatsink version of the WD_BLACK SN850X offers the same incredible performance as its cooled counterpart but at a slightly lower price point. Ideal for users with motherboard-integrated M.2 heatsinks or compact builds where space is tight.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Same PCIe Gen4 speeds: up to 7,300 MB/s read and 6,300 MB/s write
- ✓ 2TB capacity for storing large game libraries
- ✓ Compatible with most modern motherboards and laptops supporting NVMe
- ✓ SanDisk TLC 3D NAND ensures data integrity and long-term reliability
Why We Recommend It
If your PC already has a robust cooling solution or you’re installing this in a laptop, the standard SN850X gives you all the speed without the added bulk of a heatsink—making it our editor’s pick for flexibility and value.
Best For
Gamers with pre-installed M.2 heatsinks, SFF (small form factor) builds, or laptop upgrades needing high-speed storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Identical performance to the heatsink version
- Lower cost and more compact design
- Great for laptops and tightly packed desktops
Cons:
- May require third-party cooling in high-load scenarios
- Not ideal for open-air test benches or poorly ventilated cases
Customer Reviews
“I installed this in my laptop and it’s been flawless. Boot times are instant, and games load way faster than my old SATA SSD. No overheating issues even after hours of gameplay.”
“Perfect drop-in replacement for my aging NVMe drive. Speeds are consistent, and the lack of heatsink made installation in my mini-ITX build a breeze.”
3. 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD PCIe 4.0 with Heatsink for PS5 and PC Gaming
This affordable yet powerful 1TB NVMe SSD delivers near-flagship speeds at a fraction of the cost. Designed for both PS5 and PC gamers, it includes a sleek heatsink and hits up to 7,350 MB/s—making it one of the best budget SSDs for gaming in 2024.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 x4 interface with up to 7,350 MB/s read speeds
- ✓ Includes pre-installed heatsink for PS5 and PC compatibility
- ✓ Plug-and-play installation with all necessary mounting hardware
- ✓ Optimized for gaming workloads with low latency and high IOPS
Why We Recommend It
For gamers on a budget who still want Gen4 performance, this drive is a steal. It’s officially compatible with PS5 expansion slots and works great in desktops too—offering premium features without the premium price tag.
Best For
PS5 owners needing affordable storage expansion or budget-conscious PC builders wanting fast Gen4 speeds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Comes with heatsink and installation kit
- PS5-certified fit and function
Cons:
- Only 1TB capacity—may fill up quickly with modern games
- Brand is less established than Samsung or WD
Customer Reviews
“The SIX NVMe M.2 SSD PCIe 4.0 (1TB, 2280) absolutely exceeded my expectations. It arrived well packaged with everything I needed — an optional heatsink, screwdriver, screw, and standoff — which honestly saved me a trip to the store.”
“I decided to get this for my laptop as I needed more drive space and was looking for something that would also be high speed. So far this drive has been working great! Really fast for the price, speeds have been working just as advertised.”
4. WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink
The 1TB version of the SN850X retains all the high-end features of its larger sibling—including the integrated heatsink and Gen4 speeds—but in a more compact capacity. Perfect for gamers who want top performance without maxing out their storage budget.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Up to 7,300 MB/s read and 6,300 MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Built-in heatsink for sustained performance
- ✓ 1TB capacity ideal for OS, apps, and a solid game library
- ✓ Backed by WD’s reputation for reliability and performance
Why We Recommend It
If 2TB feels like overkill but you still want flagship-tier speed and cooling, this 1TB model hits the sweet spot. It’s especially great for mid-range gaming PCs or as a primary drive in a dual-SSD setup.
Best For
Gamers building balanced systems who prioritize speed and thermals over massive storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Top-tier Gen4 performance in a manageable size
- Heatsink prevents throttling during long sessions
- Reliable brand with strong warranty support
Cons:
- 1TB may feel limiting for users with large game collections
- Higher cost per GB than budget SATA or Gen3 options
Customer Reviews
“Upgraded to the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe from a Gen 3 SSD, and the difference is massive. This drive delivers exactly what it promises — insane speeds, great thermal performance, and rock-solid reliability.”
“The 1TB WD_BLACK SN850X was one of the best upgrades I made to my PC. Installation in M.2 format was quick and easy, and I noticed the difference from the very first boot.”
5. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD – Officially Licensed for PS5
Specifically engineered for PlayStation 5, the WD_BLACK SN850P is Sony’s officially licensed SSD expansion solution. It meets all PS5 requirements out of the box—including the custom heatsink design—and delivers seamless compatibility and performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Officially licensed by Sony for PS5 storage expansion
- ✓ Optimized heatsink fits perfectly inside the PS5 expansion bay
- ✓ Up to 7,300 MB/s read speeds ensure no bottleneck in gameplay
- ✓ 2TB capacity lets you store up to 50+ modern AAA games
Why We Recommend It
If you own a PS5, this is the safest and most hassle-free way to expand your storage. No compatibility worries, no third-party adapter needed—just plug, play, and enjoy more games.
Best For
PS5 owners who want guaranteed compatibility, easy installation, and high-speed storage without any guesswork.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Guaranteed PS5 compatibility with official certification
- Custom heatsink designed for PS5 airflow
- Large 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries
Cons:
- Premium pricing due to licensing and branding
- Overkill for PC-only users
Customer Reviews
“I bought this SSD to expand my storage on my PS5 since my storage got ran up pretty fast. The installation was very simple and they video they have is very easy to follow. I was able to get it installed and setup in a matter of 10 minutes.”
“Very easy to install the video in the description is a perfect step by step installation. It performs well, no noise. I also have no issues with it over heating.”
6. Samsung 870 EVO 1TB SATA III SSD
The Samsung 870 EVO remains one of the most reliable SATA SSDs on the market. While not as fast as NVMe drives, it’s perfect for upgrading older systems or adding secondary storage with proven durability and consistent performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Maxes out SATA III bandwidth at 560 MB/s read and 530 MB/s write
- ✓ Industry-leading reliability with up to 600 TBW endurance
- ✓ 2.5-inch form factor fits most laptops and desktops
- ✓ Backed by Samsung’s 5-year limited warranty
Why We Recommend It
For gamers with older PCs or those needing a dependable backup drive, the 870 EVO offers unmatched stability and brand trust. It’s not the fastest, but it’s one of the most reliable SSDs you can buy.
Best For
Users upgrading from HDDs, building budget systems, or needing secondary storage with rock-solid reliability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional longevity and error correction
- Widely compatible with nearly any system
- Consistent performance over time
Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives (SATA bottleneck)
- Larger physical size compared to M.2 options
Customer Reviews
“I got this Samsung 500gb 2.5″ SATA SSD to upgrade from the 512gb HDD in an old HP Pavilion laptop. It’s a perfect fit and works great. It’s made the old device MUCH faster.”
“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.”
7. WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD – Officially Licensed for PS5
The 1TB version of the officially licensed SN850P brings PS5-certified performance in a smaller, more affordable package. It includes the same custom heatsink and plug-and-play compatibility as the 2TB model.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sony-officially licensed for PS5 expansion
- ✓ Custom-designed heatsink ensures proper fit and cooling
- ✓ Up to 7,300 MB/s read speeds for lag-free gaming
- ✓ 1TB capacity ideal for core game library and updates
Why We Recommend It
If you don’t need 2TB but still want guaranteed PS5 compatibility and high-speed performance, this is the best 1TB option available. No compatibility risks, no extra adapters—just seamless expansion.
Best For
PS5 owners who want official support and fast load times without overspending on storage they won’t use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Guaranteed to work with PS5 out of the box
- Includes perfectly fitted heatsink
- High-speed Gen4 performance
Cons:
- 1TB may fill up quickly with large game files
- Higher cost than non-licensed alternatives
Customer Reviews
“I bought this SSD to expand my storage on my PS5 since my storage got ran up pretty fast. The installation was very simple and they video they have is very easy to follow.”
“Very easy to install the video in the description is a perfect step by step installation. It performs well, no noise. I also have no issues with it over heating.”
Complete Buying Guide for Should You Buy An Ssd Got Gaming
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing an SSD for gaming, we evaluate speed (measured in MB/s), interface type (PCIe Gen3 vs Gen4), form factor (M.2 or 2.5-inch), thermal management (heatsink inclusion), compatibility (PS5, PC, laptop), and real-world performance under load. We also consider brand reputation, warranty length, and value for money. For PS5 users, official licensing ensures hassle-free installation, while PC gamers benefit from raw speed and upgrade flexibility.
Budget Planning
SSD prices vary widely: budget SATA drives like the Samsung 870 EVO start around $60 for 1TB, while high-end NVMe Gen4 drives like the WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB can cost $150–$200. For most gamers, a 1TB Gen4 NVMe SSD offers the best balance of speed and capacity. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a 1TB Gen3 NVMe or even a reliable SATA SSD—any SSD is a massive upgrade over an HDD.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you should absolutely buy an SSD for gaming. The improvement in load times, system responsiveness, and overall experience is night and day. Whether you’re upgrading a PC or expanding your PS5, there’s an SSD on this list that fits your needs and budget. Prioritize Gen4 NVMe for new builds, stick with SATA for older systems, and always check compatibility—especially for console use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is an SSD really worth it for gaming?
A: Absolutely. An SSD drastically reduces game load times, minimizes stuttering in open-world games, and makes your entire system feel faster. Even a budget SATA SSD is a massive upgrade over a traditional hard drive.
Q: Can I use any NVMe SSD in my PS5?
A: Not necessarily. The PS5 requires an NVMe SSD with a heatsink (or you must add one) and specific speed and size requirements. For guaranteed compatibility, choose an officially licensed drive like the WD_BLACK SN850P.
Q: Do I need PCIe Gen4 for gaming?
A: Not strictly necessary, but it helps. Gen4 SSDs offer faster load times than Gen3, especially in newer titles optimized for fast storage. However, Gen3 is still excellent and more affordable if you’re on a budget.
Q: How much SSD storage do I need for gaming?
A: We recommend at least 1TB. Modern AAA games can take 80–150GB each, so 500GB fills up quickly. 2TB gives you room for 10+ large games plus your OS and apps.
Q: Will an SSD improve FPS in games?
A: Not directly. An SSD improves load times and asset streaming but doesn’t increase frame rates. For higher FPS, you’ll need a better GPU or CPU.
Ready to level up your gaming experience? Don’t wait—click any “Check Price” button above to grab the SSD that’s right for you. Whether you’re expanding your PS5 or building the ultimate gaming PC, these drives deliver the speed, reliability, and performance you need to stay ahead of the competition.
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