Looking for the best 2TB SSD to buy in 2024? Whether you’re upgrading your gaming rig, boosting your laptop’s performance, or need reliable external storage for work and travel, a 2TB solid-state drive offers the perfect balance of speed, capacity, and value. With so many options on the market—from blazing-fast NVMe Gen4 drives to rugged portable SSDs—it can be tough to pick the right one. That’s why we’ve tested and compared the top 2TB SSDs across different use cases, budgets, and form factors to help you make a smart, informed decision.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 What 2Tb Ssd To Buy Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WD Black SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD Gen4 M.2 2280 for Gaming Laptops and Handheld Devices
The WD Black SN7100 2TB is built for gamers who demand speed and reliability. With blazing read speeds up to 7,250MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900MB/s, this Gen4 NVMe SSD delivers near-instant load times and smooth multitasking—even in the most demanding titles.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 interface with next-gen TLC 3D NAND
- ✓ Up to 35% faster than previous-gen WD Black drives
- ✓ Compact M.2 2280 form factor fits most laptops and handhelds
- ✓ Optimized for gaming laptops, Steam Deck upgrades, and compact builds
Why We Recommend It
This SSD strikes the perfect balance between performance, compatibility, and value. It’s purpose-built for gamers on the go, offering high-octane speeds without overheating or throttling under load.
Best For
Gamers upgrading handheld devices like the Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally, and anyone needing fast, reliable internal storage in a compact build.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Gen4 speeds
- Low power consumption
- Solid thermal performance
- WD Black reliability and warranty support
Cons:
- No included heatsink (may need aftermarket cooling in tight cases)
- Not the cheapest Gen4 option
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought the WD_BLACK SN7100 4TB to replace my smaller WD SN570 Gen3 boot drive. Installation was straightforward i.e just slide it into the M.2 slot, and done. Using CrystalDiskMark V9.5.0, I consistently saw around 7000 MB/s read and 6200 MB/s write on the 4 GB test, and about 6800 MB/s.”
Customer Review: “Great SSD for the price. Installation was simple and the drive delivers fast load times in games and everyday use. The performance is definitely noticeable. Overall, a solid upgrade for any gaming PC!!”
2. Crucial P310 2TB NVMe Gen4 M.2 SSD for Laptops, Desktops, and Gaming Consoles
The Crucial P310 2TB delivers premium Gen4 performance at a surprisingly accessible price. With read speeds up to 7,100MB/s and write speeds up to 6,000MB/s, it’s ideal for gamers, creators, and anyone upgrading from older SATA or Gen3 drives.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe 4.0 NVMe interface with Micron 3D NAND
- ✓ Broad compatibility with laptops, desktops, and handheld consoles
- ✓ 2TB capacity offers ample space for games, apps, and media
- ✓ Energy-efficient design helps extend laptop battery life
Why We Recommend It
It’s rare to find a Gen4 SSD this fast and reliable at this price point. The P310 outperforms many pricier competitors and works seamlessly across a wide range of devices—including the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go.
Best For
Users upgrading handheld gaming devices, budget-conscious builders, and anyone wanting high-speed storage without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Fast boot and load times
- Compatible with a wide range of systems
- Crucial’s solid reputation for reliability
Cons:
- No bundled software or cloning tools
- Slightly lower sustained write performance under heavy workloads
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently upgraded to the Crucial P310 2TB SSD (CT2000P310SSD801) and it’s been a fantastic addition to my setup. Plenty of space: 2 TB gives me lots of room for OS, apps, games, and files without tight space concerns. Fast speeds: For Gen4 NVMe, load and boot times are super quick.”
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this Crucial P310 2TB SSD for 4 months now in my small form factor PC build and it’s been fantastic. Installation was simple and straightforward – no issues at all. The performance is outstanding for both gaming and everyday use.”
3. Samsung T7 2TB Portable SSD USB 3.2 Gen 2 for Gaming, Work, and Travel
The Samsung T7 2TB is a sleek, pocket-sized powerhouse perfect for creatives, travelers, and gamers who need fast, reliable external storage. With USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, it delivers up to 1,050MB/s read speeds—making file transfers feel nearly instant.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact, lightweight design with aluminum casing
- ✓ USB-C connectivity (backward compatible with USB-A)
- ✓ Password protection with AES 256-bit hardware encryption
- ✓ Drop-resistant and shockproof build
Why We Recommend It
It’s one of the most reliable portable SSDs on the market, offering excellent performance, strong security features, and Samsung’s legendary build quality—all at a reasonable price.
Best For
Photographers, videographers, remote workers, and gamers who need fast, secure, and portable storage for large files on the go.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast transfer speeds for a portable drive
- Durable and compact design
- Strong security with hardware encryption
- Works plug-and-play with most devices
Cons:
- Not as fast as Thunderbolt SSDs
- No IP rating for water/dust resistance
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Top quality, no issues, uploading is fast, as well as downloading. The memory is huge. 200 hours of video, and it didn’t even use 1% of storage space.”
Customer Review: “The T7 was received in Fat32 Format with MBR Partition. I’m using this as a backup drive for a Win 11 Pro Desktop PC, so the first thing I did was reformat the Drive as NTFS with GPT partitions which is better suited for the Win 10/11 OS.”
4. Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD, up to 540MB/s – CT2000BX500SSD1
The Crucial BX500 2TB is a no-frills SATA SSD that delivers solid performance for everyday computing. While not as fast as NVMe drives, it’s a fantastic upgrade from traditional hard drives—offering faster boot times, quicker app launches, and improved system responsiveness.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3D NAND technology for improved endurance
- ✓ Up to 540MB/s read and 500MB/s write speeds
- ✓ 2.5-inch form factor fits most laptops and desktops
- ✓ Energy efficient—45x more efficient than HDDs
Why We Recommend It
If you’re upgrading an older system or building a budget PC, the BX500 offers reliable performance at an unbeatable price. It’s perfect for general use, office work, and light gaming.
Best For
Budget builders, students, and anyone replacing an old hard drive with a reliable, affordable SSD.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable for 2TB capacity
- Easy installation in most systems
- Improves system responsiveness significantly over HDDs
- Low power consumption
Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives
- No DRAM cache (affects sustained performance)
- Basic design with minimal features
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Review of BX300 480GB drive. Let me be frank. This is a budget drive that likely uses decent, reliable but not top of the line NAND. Things pricier drives will give you: DRAM cache: ❌ Heat-sink metal casing: ❌ Bragging rights on speed: ❌”
Customer Review: “I recently purchased the Crucial BX500 4TB SSD and wanted to share my experience so far. Although I’m not sure how to measure the exact read/write speeds, the drive has performed excellently in terms of loading times and file transfers.”
5. Samsung 990 PRO 2TB NVMe Gen4 M.2 SSD for High-Performance Gaming and Workstations
The Samsung 990 PRO 2TB is a flagship NVMe SSD designed for enthusiasts, content creators, and hardcore gamers. With read speeds up to 7,450MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900MB/s, it delivers near-theoretical-max Gen4 performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Samsung’s in-house controller and V-NAND technology
- ✓ Excellent thermal management with optional heatsink version
- ✓ Optimized for heavy workloads like 4K video editing and AAA gaming
- ✓ Up to 2,400 TBW endurance rating
Why We Recommend It
If you want the best of the best and don’t mind paying a premium, the 990 PRO is one of the fastest and most reliable Gen4 SSDs available. It’s built to handle intense workloads without breaking a sweat.
Best For
High-end gaming rigs, workstations, and professionals who need top-tier performance and reliability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Top-tier Gen4 speeds
- Excellent cooling and thermal throttling resistance
- Long lifespan with high TBW rating
- Samsung Magician software for monitoring and optimization
Cons:
- Expensive compared to alternatives
- Overkill for casual users
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am using two of these 1TB drives in a custom NAS box I put together running TrueNAS. While the majority of my backups are on the mirrored HDD drives, I use these NVMe drives for high-speed cache—and they perform flawlessly.”
Customer Review: “This SSD is an absolute beast. The Samsung 990 PRO delivers insane read and write speeds — my system boots in seconds and large sessions in Logic load almost instantly. It runs cool, installs easily, and performs flawlessly under heavy workloads.”
6. Samsung 870 EVO 2TB SATA III 2.5-Inch Internal SSD for Reliable Storage
The Samsung 870 EVO 2TB is the gold standard for SATA SSDs. With read speeds up to 560MB/s and write speeds up to 530MB/s, it maxes out the SATA III interface while offering exceptional reliability and longevity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Industry-leading 2,400 TBW endurance rating
- ✓ Samsung’s MJX controller and 1xx-layer TLC NAND
- ✓ Broad compatibility with older laptops and desktops
- ✓ Includes Samsung Magician software for optimization
Why We Recommend It
Even though SATA is older technology, the 870 EVO remains one of the most reliable and consistent SSDs on the market. It’s perfect for upgrading older systems or building a stable, long-lasting storage solution.
Best For
Users with older laptops, business PCs, or anyone prioritizing reliability and longevity over raw speed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely reliable and durable
- Consistent performance over time
- Wide compatibility
- Excellent software support
Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives
- SATA interface limits future-proofing
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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 and improved the overall performance immensely.”
Customer Review: “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. SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, IP65 Water and Dust Resistant
The SanDisk Extreme 2TB Portable SSD is built for adventurers and professionals who need durable, high-speed storage. With IP65 water and dust resistance, drop protection up to 3 meters, and speeds up to 1,050MB/s, it’s ready for anything.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Rugged design with IP65 rating
- ✓ USB-C with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
- ✓ Carabiner loop for easy attachment
- ✓ AES 256-bit hardware encryption
Why We Recommend It
This SSD combines speed, durability, and portability like few others. Whether you’re shooting in the desert or editing videos on a mountain trail, the SanDisk Extreme can handle it.
Best For
Outdoor photographers, travelers, and field workers who need tough, fast, and secure external storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rugged and weather-resistant
- Fast transfer speeds
- Compact and lightweight
- Includes security encryption
Cons:
- More expensive than non-rugged portable SSDs
- Limited to USB 3.2 Gen 2 (not Thunderbolt)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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 now finish in seconds.”
Customer Review: “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 traveling.”
Complete Buying Guide for 2TB SSDs
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best 2TB SSD to buy, we evaluate several key factors: performance (read/write speeds and interface type), form factor (M.2 vs. 2.5-inch vs. portable), compatibility with your device, durability (especially for portable drives), and value for money. We also consider real-world usage—like gaming, content creation, or travel—to match each SSD to the right user.
Budget Planning
Prices for 2TB SSDs range from around $120 for budget SATA models like the Crucial BX500 to over $200 for high-end NVMe drives like the Samsung 990 PRO. Portable SSDs typically fall between $130–$180. Set a budget based on your needs: if you’re upgrading an old laptop, a SATA SSD may suffice. For gaming or creative work, invest in Gen4 NVMe. For travel, prioritize durability and portability.
Final Thoughts
The best 2TB SSD for you depends on your specific use case. Gamers should lean toward NVMe Gen4 drives like the WD Black SN7100 or Crucial P310. Creatives on the go will love the Samsung T7 or SanDisk Extreme. Budget users and upgraders can’t go wrong with the Crucial BX500 or Samsung 870 EVO. No matter your needs, a 2TB SSD is a smart investment in speed, reliability, and future-proofing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a 2TB SSD worth it over a 1TB model?
A: Absolutely—if you can afford it. A 2TB SSD gives you double the space for games, videos, and apps, reducing the need for external storage or constant file management. Prices have dropped significantly, making 2TB drives a great value for most users.
Q: Can I use an NVMe SSD in any laptop?
A: Not always. Check your laptop’s specs to see if it supports M.2 NVMe drives. Some older systems only support SATA M.2 or 2.5-inch drives. Always verify compatibility before buying.
Q: Do I need a heatsink for my NVMe SSD?
A: It depends. In compact builds or high-performance workloads, a heatsink helps prevent thermal throttling. For most laptops and light use, it’s not necessary—but recommended for desktops running intensive tasks.
Q: Are portable SSDs as reliable as internal ones?
A: High-quality portable SSDs from brands like Samsung and SanDisk are very reliable. Look for models with shock resistance, encryption, and good warranties. Avoid cheap no-name brands for critical data.
Q: How long do 2TB SSDs last?
A: Most modern SSDs are rated for hundreds to thousands of terabytes written (TBW). With normal use, a 2TB SSD can easily last 5–10 years. Samsung and Crucial drives often exceed 1,000 TBW, ensuring long-term reliability.
Ready to upgrade your storage? Whether you’re building a gaming PC, backing up your photo library, or just tired of slow boot times, one of these top-rated 2TB SSDs is perfect for you. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare current deals and make your purchase with confidence!