In today’s fast-paced digital world, slow storage is a major bottleneck. Whether you’re a gamer looking for lightning-fast load times, a content creator handling massive video files, or just someone who wants their PC to boot up in a flash, a Solid State Drive (SSD) is an absolute game-changer. And when it comes to SSDs, Samsung consistently stands out as a leader, renowned for its performance, reliability, and innovation.
But with so many options available, how do you sort through them all to find the best price for Samsung SSD that fits your needs? It can feel like a maze! Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. We’ve compiled a list of 10 top Samsung SSDs, covering everything from blazing-fast internal drives to super-durable portable solutions. We’ll break down their unique features, pros, and cons, and help you make an informed decision without breaking the bank. Let’s dive in and find your perfect storage upgrade!
Our Top 10 Samsung SSDs Reviewed
1. Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid…
The Samsung 870 EVO is a true workhorse, an all-star in the SATA SSD realm. It’s built on Samsung’s pioneering technology, offering a fantastic blend of performance, reliability, and broad compatibility for both desktops and laptops. If you’re looking to upgrade an older hard drive without delving into NVMe, this 2.5-inch internal SSD provides excellent value and a noticeable speed boost for everyday computing and even professional workloads. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a dependable internal storage solution.
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Key Features:
- Maximizes SATA interface limits with up to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
- Enhanced write speeds and sustained high performance with a larger variable buffer.
- High endurance (up to 600 TBW) with a 5-year limited warranty.
- Extensive compatibility with major host systems, chipsets, and motherboards.
- Easy plug-and-play upgrade with a standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor.
- Includes Samsung Magician 6 software for easy drive management and optimization.
- AES 256-bit Encryption (Class 0), TCG/Opal, IEEE1667 support.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for a SATA SSD.
- Industry-leading reliability and endurance.
- Broad compatibility with older and newer systems.
- Easy to install and manage with Magician software.
- Great value for general-purpose upgrades.
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe SSDs due to SATA interface limitations.
- Not ideal for cutting-edge gaming or intensive professional applications that demand NVMe speeds.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 870 EVO for its straightforward installation and immediate performance improvement. Many highlight its reliability and the peace of mind that comes with Samsung’s brand reputation. It’s often recommended as the go-to upgrade for older laptops and desktops.
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2. Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive,…
For the creators, explorers, and anyone needing portable yet powerful storage, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a fantastic pick. This sleek, compact external drive utilizes PCIe NVMe technology to deliver lightning-fast data transfers, making it perfect for quickly backing up large files, editing videos on the go, or expanding storage for consoles and mobile devices. It’s almost twice as fast as its predecessor, the T5, offering serious speed in a pocket-sized package.
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Key Features:
- Fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s thanks to PCIe NVMe.
- Compact design with capacities up to 4TB (this model is 1TB).
- Extensive compatibility with PCs, Macs, Android devices, and gaming consoles.
- Supports Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fps) video recording directly from cameras/phones.
- Shock-resistant and fall protection up to 6 feet due to solid aluminum unibody.
- Samsung’s in-house flash memory components ensure quality.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast for an external drive.
- Highly portable and durable design.
- Wide range of compatibility.
- Ideal for content creators and professionals on the move.
- Great for expanding storage for consoles and iPhone 15 Pro.
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Cons:
- Can run warm during sustained heavy transfers.
- Price per GB can be higher than internal SSDs.
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User Impressions: Users love the T7’s incredible speed and compact form factor, often noting how it simplifies their workflow for video editing and large file transfers. Its robust build also gets high marks, making it a reliable companion for travel.
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3. Samsung T7 Shield 2TB, Portable SSD, up-to 1050MB/s, USB…
Ready for adventure? The Samsung T7 Shield is the ruggedized sibling of the popular T7, designed to brave the elements while still delivering impressive speeds. With IP65 water and dust resistance, plus enhanced drop protection, this 2TB portable SSD is perfect for photographers, videographers, or anyone whose digital life takes them into challenging environments. It’s the dependable sidekick that won’t let you down, even when the going gets tough.
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Key Features:
- IP65 rated for water and dust resistance.
- Drop protection up to 9.8 feet (3 meters).
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface with read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s.
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android devices, gaming consoles, and iPhone 15 Pro.
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
- Samsung Magician software for optimization and drive health monitoring.
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Pros:
- Exceptional durability against water, dust, and drops.
- Fast data transfer speeds suitable for large files.
- Wide device compatibility.
- Peace of mind for outdoor or demanding use.
- Palm-sized for easy portability.
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Cons:
- Slightly bulkier than the standard T7 due to the protective casing.
- Can still experience some heat during very prolonged, heavy use.
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User Impressions: Customers rave about the T7 Shield’s ruggedness and how it holds up in real-world scenarios, making it ideal for field work. The speed is consistently praised, affirming it as a top choice for professionals who need reliable performance no matter the conditions.
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4. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 1TB, PCIe Gen 4×4, Gen…
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus represents a significant leap forward in internal SSD performance, blending PCIe Gen 4×4 and Gen 5×2 compatibility for groundbreaking read/write speeds. This 1TB M.2 drive is a beast for users demanding extreme performance for gaming, large file transfers, and intensive creative applications. It pushes the boundaries of speed and efficiency, ensuring your system runs faster and cooler.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300 MB/s.
- Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 for enhanced large-file performance.
- Optimized thermal control with nickel-coated controller for power efficiency.
- Compatible with both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2.
- Samsung Magician Software for continuous firmware updates and health monitoring.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast read and write speeds.
- Excellent thermal management reduces overheating.
- Future-proof with PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility.
- Ideal for high-end gaming rigs and professional workstations.
- Improved power efficiency over previous models.
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Cons:
- Requires a motherboard with an M.2 slot and PCIe 4.0/5.0 support to reach full speeds.
- Higher price point compared to SATA or PCIe Gen 3 drives.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the sheer speed of the 990 EVO Plus, noting how it transforms boot times, application loading, and file transfers. Its efficient thermal performance also receives positive feedback, ensuring sustained peak operation.
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5. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal…
For gamers and demanding professionals, the Samsung 990 PRO is a true champion. This 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD delivers a massive speed boost, significantly improving random read/write speeds over its predecessors. With near-max PCIe 4.0 performance, it’s designed to deliver an ultimate gaming experience with faster loads on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games, making it a top-tier choice for those who need every ounce of speed.
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Key Features:
- Random read/write speeds up to 1400K/1550K IOPS.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s.
- Up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO.
- Samsung’s nickel-coated controller for effective thermal control.
- Slim M.2 2280 form factor, perfect for desktops and laptops meeting PCI-SIG D8.
- Samsung Magician Software for optimal performance and health.
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Pros:
- Extreme read/write speeds, nearing PCIe 4.0 limits.
- Significantly faster game loading times.
- Excellent power efficiency.
- Reliable thermal management prevents throttling.
- Perfect for high-end gaming and professional applications.
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Cons:
- Requires a PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot to achieve full speeds.
- Premium price tag reflects its top-tier performance.
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User Impressions: Gamers especially highlight the dramatic reduction in load times and overall system responsiveness. Professionals appreciate its ability to handle intensive workloads without breaking a sweat, confirming its status as a high-performance king.
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6. Samsung T9 Portable SSD 2TB, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 External…
The Samsung T9 Portable SSD is built for creators who can’t afford to slow down. This 2TB external drive utilizes the latest USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, delivering sustained read and write speeds up to 2,000MB/s. Whether you’re loading, editing, or transferring colossal files, the T9 ensures a smooth, uninterrupted workflow, even during extended, heavy usage. It’s truly a powerhouse for those who demand nonstop speed and portability.
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Key Features:
- Sustained read/write speeds up to 2,000MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
- Dynamic Thermal Guard system to maintain ideal temperatures.
- Broad compatibility with desktops, cameras, gaming consoles, and iPhone 15 Pro.
- Rugged design for longevity and durability.
- Samsung Magician Software for optimizing performance and monitoring health.
- All components produced in-house for trusted quality.
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Pros:
- Incredibly fast external transfer speeds.
- Excellent thermal management prevents performance dips.
- Highly versatile compatibility.
- Robust and built to last through heavy use.
- Ideal for professional content creation on the go.
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on your device to achieve maximum speeds.
- Premium pricing due to advanced interface and performance.
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User Impressions: Users are blown away by the T9’s raw speed, especially for large video files. The ability to maintain performance during long transfers without overheating is a frequent point of praise, making it a go-to for serious professionals.
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7. Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 1TB, PCIe 5.0×4 M.2 2280, Seq….
Step into the future of storage with the Samsung SSD 9100 PRO. This 1TB M.2 drive leverages the groundbreaking PCIe 5.0 x4 interface to deliver absolutely phenomenal sequential read/write speeds, double that of even the mighty 990 PRO. If you’re building a bleeding-edge PC for competitive gaming, AI content creation, or massive data processing, the 9100 PRO offers virtually no lag and nonstop performance, setting a new benchmark for speed.
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Key Features:
- Breakthrough sequential read/write speeds up to 14,800/13,400 MB/s.
- Random read/write speeds up to 2,200K/2,600K IOPS.
- 5nm controller boosts power efficiency by up to 49% over 990 PRO.
- Advanced thermal control ensures smooth and reliable performance.
- Available up to 8TB for massive storage capacity.
- Samsung Magician Software for health, updates, and encryption.
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Pros:
- Unparalleled, cutting-edge PCIe 5.0 performance.
- Extremely fast game loads and application responsiveness.
- Superior power efficiency for a drive of this caliber.
- Massive potential storage capacity for the most demanding users.
- Future-proof and built for next-gen computing.
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Cons:
- Requires a motherboard with PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, which is still quite new and less common.
- Highest price point among internal SSDs.
- Might be overkill for average users.
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User Impressions: Early adopters are astonished by the 9100 PRO’s mind-boggling speeds, confirming it as the ultimate drive for uncompromising performance. The efficient thermal management, despite its speed, is also frequently noted as a significant advantage.
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8. Samsung MU-PE4T0S T7 4TB Shield Portable SSD, USB 3.2,…
The Samsung T7 Shield is back on our list, but this time with a massive 4TB capacity. This means you get all the fantastic ruggedness and speed of the T7 Shield, but with ample room for virtually all your digital memories, large projects, or extensive game libraries. It’s the ultimate portable solution for those who need both robust protection and vast storage on the go, making it easier than ever to capture and carry your content.
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Key Features:
- Large 4TB storage capacity.
- IP65 rated for water and dust resistance.
- Drop protection up to 9.8 feet (3 meters).
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface with read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s.
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android devices, gaming consoles, and iPhone 15 Pro.
- Samsung Magician software for optimization.
- Includes USB Type-C and USB Type-C to USB Type-A cables.
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Pros:
- Exceptional storage capacity combined with rugged durability.
- Fast transfer speeds for large files.
- Ideal for extensive media libraries and professional workflows.
- Peace of mind with water, dust, and drop resistance.
- Wide device compatibility.
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Cons:
- Higher investment cost due to the large capacity.
- Maximum speed still limited by USB 3.2 Gen 2.
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User Impressions: Reviewers love the combination of huge storage and robust protection, stating it’s a must-have for videographers and photographers who need to carry vast amounts of data safely. The speed and compatibility are also consistently praised.
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9. SAMSUNG 980 SSD 500GB PCle 3.0×4, NVMe M.2 2280, Internal…
Looking for a significant performance boost without breaking the bank? The Samsung 980 SSD is an excellent entry point into the world of NVMe. This 500GB PCIe 3.0×4 M.2 drive offers impressive sequential read/write speeds far beyond traditional SATA SSDs, making it a smart choice for upgrading your gaming PC or laptop. It balances speed, endurance, and affordability, proving that you don’t always need the absolute latest tech to experience a massive upgrade.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 3,500/3,000 MB/s.
- Over 6.2x faster than SATA SSDs.
- Full Power Mode for continuous and consistent high performance via Magician software.
- High endurance up to 600 TBW and a 5-year limited warranty.
- Reliable thermal control with nickel coating and heat spreader label.
- Samsung’s in-house components for trusted reliability.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for a PCIe 3.0 drive.
- Very competitive price point for an NVMe SSD.
- Strong endurance and reliability.
- Efficient thermal management.
- Significant upgrade from SATA drives or HDDs.
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Cons:
- Slower than PCIe 4.0/5.0 NVMe drives.
- 500GB might be too small for some users’ primary drive needs.
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User Impressions: Many users find the 980 to be the perfect blend of performance and value, especially for gaming and general computing. They frequently highlight the noticeable speed difference compared to their old drives and the ease of installation.
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10. Samsung T5 EVO Portable SSD 8TB, USB 3.2 Gen 1…
The Samsung T5 EVO reimagines portable storage with an emphasis on massive capacity and convenience. This 8TB external SSD is an ideal choice for gamers and content creators who need to carry vast amounts of data without sacrificing portability. While it uses USB 3.2 Gen 1, its optimized Intelligent TurboWrite ensures much faster transfers than traditional HDDs, offering a compact yet mighty solution for all your on-the-go storage needs.
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Key Features:
- Massive 8TB storage capacity in a compact form factor.
- Optimized Intelligent TurboWrite for improved large file transfers.
- Supported by USB 3.2 Gen 1 for superb performance over HDDs.
- Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet.
- Extensive compatibility with desktops, cameras, and gaming consoles.
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Pros:
- Unprecedented 8TB capacity in a portable SSD.
- Much faster than external hard drives.
- Highly durable and shock-resistant.
- Excellent for backing up huge media libraries or game collections.
- Great value for large-scale storage.
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Cons:
- Slower than T7 or T9 series portable SSDs due to USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface.
- Not ideal for continuous, high-speed video editing directly from the drive.
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User Impressions: Users are thrilled with the T5 EVO’s colossal storage capacity, often calling it a game-changer for digital hoarders and professionals with extensive archives. Its surprising portability for such a large drive is also a significant plus.
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Finding the Best Price for Samsung SSD: Your Buying Guide
Choosing the right Samsung SSD means balancing your needs with your budget. As you’ve seen, there’s a Samsung SSD for virtually every use case, from ultra-fast internal NVMe drives perfect for gaming and content creation to robust, high-capacity portable SSDs for on-the-go professionals. When you’re looking for the best price for Samsung SSD, consider the following:
- Usage: Are you upgrading an old laptop, building a new gaming rig, or needing portable storage for field work? This will dictate the type (SATA, NVMe, portable) and capacity you need.
- Speed Requirements: Do you need cutting-edge PCIe 5.0 speeds for competitive gaming and AI, or is a fast SATA or PCIe 3.0 drive sufficient for general use?
- Capacity: How much storage do you realistically need? While 1TB is a common sweet spot, content creators or gamers with large libraries might benefit from 2TB, 4TB, or even 8TB options.
- Portability & Durability: If you’re often on the move, a portable SSD with rugged features like the T7 Shield might be worth the investment.
- Compatibility: Always check your device’s specifications to ensure the SSD’s interface (SATA, M.2 NVMe, USB version) is compatible.
Remember to keep an eye out for sales, especially during major shopping events. Comparing prices across different retailers is also key to securing the best price for Samsung SSD. Whichever Samsung SSD you choose, you’re investing in quality, performance, and reliability from a world leader in flash memory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I choose a Samsung SSD over other brands?
A1: Samsung has been the world’s #1 flash memory brand since 2003. They are known for producing all firmware and components (including DRAM and NAND) in-house, which allows for end-to-end integration and exceptional quality control. This typically translates to higher performance, better reliability, and superior endurance compared to many competitors.
Q2: What’s the main difference between SATA, NVMe (M.2), and Portable SSDs?
A2:
* SATA SSDs: These typically come in a 2.5-inch form factor and use the SATA interface, offering speeds up to around 550 MB/s. They’re great for upgrading older laptops and desktops.
* NVMe (M.2) SSDs: These are smaller, stick-like drives that plug directly into an M.2 slot on your motherboard. They use the PCIe interface (Gen 3, 4, or 5), offering significantly faster speeds (thousands of MB/s) than SATA, ideal for modern PCs, gaming, and professional workloads.
* Portable SSDs: These are external drives that connect via USB (Type-A or Type-C). They offer the speed of internal SSDs but in a convenient, durable, and often pocket-sized form factor, perfect for transferring large files between devices or extending console storage.
Q3: How can I find the best price for a Samsung SSD?
A3: To find the best price for a Samsung SSD, monitor major online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg. Look out for holiday sales (Black Friday, Prime Day, Cyber Monday) and seasonal promotions. Price comparison websites can also help you track deals across different vendors.
Q4: What does “TBW” mean, and why is it important for an SSD?
A4: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written.” It’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance – how much data can be written to the drive before its warranty or expected lifespan is exceeded. A higher TBW rating indicates a more durable and longer-lasting SSD, especially important for users who frequently write or overwrite large amounts of data (e.g., video editors, heavy gamers).
Q5: Is Samsung Magician software really useful?
A5: Yes, Samsung Magician software is very useful. It provides a user-friendly interface to monitor your SSD’s health, optimize its performance (e.g., with “Full Power Mode”), secure data with encryption settings, and easily update firmware. It helps ensure you’re always getting the best out of your Samsung SSD.
Q6: Can I use a Samsung external SSD with my iPhone 15 Pro for video recording?
A6: Yes! Many newer Samsung portable SSDs, such as the T7, T7 Shield, and T9, support direct Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fps) video recording with devices like the iPhone 15 Pro. This is a game-changer for mobile content creators, allowing them to record large ProRes files directly to external storage.
Q7: How much SSD storage do I really need?
A7: It depends on your usage:
* 250GB-500GB: Good for basic users, a primary boot drive, and a few essential programs.
* 1TB: A popular sweet spot for most users, providing ample space for an OS, many applications, and a decent library of games or media.
* 2TB-4TB: Ideal for serious gamers, content creators, or professionals who deal with large files (4K/8K video, high-resolution photos, extensive software libraries).
* 8TB+: For extreme users, large video production studios, or those who need to store massive archives of data.