When it comes to gaming, your SSD isn’t just about storage—it’s about speed, responsiveness, and immersion. The best kind of SSD for gaming delivers lightning-fast load times, smooth asset streaming, and reliable performance that keeps up with today’s demanding titles. Whether you’re building a high-end PC, upgrading your PlayStation 5, or just tired of waiting for games to load, choosing the right solid-state drive can transform your experience. From blazing-fast NVMe Gen4 drives to budget-friendly SATA options and rugged portable SSDs, we’ve tested and ranked the top performers so you can game without compromise.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 What Kind Of Ssd For Gaming Best Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD – M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds, Up to 6,300 MB/s write speeds
The WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB is the ultimate SSD for serious gamers who demand top-tier performance and massive storage. With read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, this Gen4 NVMe drive slashes load times and delivers seamless gameplay even in the most demanding AAA titles.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 performance with up to 7,300 MB/s read and 6,300 MB/s write speeds
- ✓ 2TB capacity gives you room for dozens of large games without constant deletions
- ✓ Optional heatsink version available for optimal thermal management during long sessions
- ✓ Built with SanDisk TLC 3D NAND for durability and long-term reliability
- ✓ Compatible with PS5 (with heatsink) and high-end gaming PCs
Why We Recommend It
This SSD doesn’t just meet expectations—it exceeds them. Whether you’re loading open-world maps in seconds or installing massive game libraries, the SN850X handles it all with ease. It’s fast, reliable, and built specifically for gaming workloads.
Best For
Enthusiast gamers, content creators, and anyone building a high-performance rig who wants the best speed and capacity combo on the market.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds that maximize Gen4 bandwidth
- Large 2TB capacity ideal for modern game libraries
- Excellent thermal performance, especially with heatsink
- Trusted brand with strong warranty and support
Cons:
- Pricier than budget SATA or Gen3 options
- Heatsink version required for PS5 compatibility (sold separately on some models)
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. Speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s are no joke.”
2. WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD for Gaming with Fast Read and Write Speeds
If you want flagship NVMe performance in a more compact 1TB size, the WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB is our Editor’s Choice. It packs the same Gen4 speed and gaming-focused engineering as its bigger sibling, making it perfect for mid-range builds or PS5 upgrades.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 interface with up to 7,300 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Optimized firmware for low latency and consistent gaming performance
- ✓ Available with integrated heatsink for easy PS5 installation
- ✓ Uses high-quality SanDisk TLC NAND for endurance and stability
- ✓ Low power consumption ideal for laptops and small-form-factor builds
Why We Recommend It
This drive strikes the perfect balance between speed, size, and value. It’s fast enough to eliminate stutter in open-world games and compact enough to fit almost anywhere—including inside a PlayStation 5 without modification.
Best For
Gamers upgrading their PS5 or building a compact PC who want near-top-tier performance without overspending on storage they won’t use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Matches the performance of much more expensive drives
- Heatsink version simplifies PS5 compatibility
- Reliable and consistent under heavy gaming loads
- Great price-to-performance ratio for a Gen4 SSD
Cons:
- 1TB may fill up quickly with modern AAA games (80–100GB each)
- Non-heatsink version can run warm under sustained load
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. Speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s are no joke.”
3. Samsung 870 EVO 1TB SATA III 2.5-Inch Internal SSD for PC and Laptop Storage
Don’t let its SATA interface fool you—the Samsung 870 EVO 1TB is a legendary SSD that still holds up incredibly well for gaming. While not as fast as NVMe drives, it offers rock-solid reliability, excellent compatibility, and a price that makes it our Best Budget pick.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sequential read/write speeds up to 560/530 MB/s—maxing out the SATA III limit
- ✓ Industry-leading endurance rating of up to 600 TBW (terabytes written)
- ✓ Compatible with nearly every PC, laptop, and older system with a 2.5″ bay
- ✓ Samsung Magician software for monitoring health and optimizing performance
- ✓ 5-year limited warranty backed by decades of SSD innovation
Why We Recommend It
For gamers on a budget or upgrading older systems, the 870 EVO delivers a massive leap over traditional hard drives. Games load significantly faster, OS boots in seconds, and multitasking becomes smooth—all without breaking the bank.
Best For
Budget-conscious gamers, laptop users, or anyone upgrading from an HDD who wants reliable, proven performance at an affordable price.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched reliability and longevity in the SATA category
- Widely compatible with desktops, laptops, and older hardware
- Excellent value per gigabyte
- Consistently high user and professional ratings
Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives (but still vastly faster than HDDs)
- Requires SATA power and data cables (not plug-and-play like M.2)
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 installed the Samsung 870 EVO 2TB SSD in my Alienware Aurora 11 as additional storage for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and it performs flawlessly. Installation was quick and easy, and the speed improvement is impressive. Load times are much faster, and everything runs smoothly.”
4. Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD with Rugged Design for Gaming and Creators
The Samsung T7 Shield 2TB is the ultimate portable SSD for gamers on the go. With ruggedized design, USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, and compact form factor, it lets you carry your entire game library anywhere—perfect for LAN parties, travel, or expanding console storage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface with read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s
- ✓ IP65-rated for water and dust resistance—built to survive drops, spills, and rough handling
- ✓ Compact and lightweight (just 3.8 oz) with a rubberized, non-slip casing
- ✓ Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, and gaming consoles via USB-C
- ✓ Includes USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables for universal connectivity
Why We Recommend It
This isn’t just another external drive—it’s a durable, high-speed companion for mobile gamers. Whether you’re backing up saves, expanding your Steam library, or playing directly from the drive, the T7 Shield handles it all with style and toughness.
Best For
Traveling gamers, content creators, or anyone needing fast, portable storage that can handle real-world abuse.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable and weather-resistant design
- Blazing fast for a portable SSD—great for running games directly from the drive
- Works seamlessly across multiple platforms
- Includes both cable types for maximum compatibility
Cons:
- Slower than internal NVMe drives (but still much faster than HDDs)
- Requires external power via USB (no battery)
Customer Reviews
“So far so good. Using with MacBook Air M4 and left it exfat and no issues. Was able to take entire music and photo collection and move from very old hdd to new Samsung SSD. Liked it so much I bought another to have.”
“Great SSD. I got the 2TB version and honestly couldn’t be happier. The price is solid, the brand is reliable, not some random no-name drive. The rubberized casing feels durable and comfortable, and it handles everyday use without issues. It comes with a USB-C high-speed cable, and the transfer speed is plenty fast for what I use it for.”
5. Crucial P310 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD with Heatsink for PS5 and Gaming PCs
The Crucial P310 1TB is a smart choice for PS5 owners and budget-minded PC builders who want Gen4 speeds without the premium price tag. With an included heatsink and impressive 7,100 MB/s read speeds, it’s designed specifically for gaming workloads.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 performance with up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Integrated aluminum heatsink ensures safe installation in PS5 and prevents thermal throttling
- ✓ 1TB capacity ideal for storing multiple AAA titles
- ✓ Backward compatible with Gen3 systems for future-proof flexibility
- ✓ Micron 3D NAND technology for consistent performance and endurance
Why We Recommend It
This SSD delivers near-flagship speeds at a more accessible price point, and the included heatsink makes PS5 installation hassle-free. It’s a no-compromise upgrade that balances performance, compatibility, and value.
Best For
PS5 owners looking for an affordable Gen4 upgrade or PC gamers wanting high-speed storage without overspending.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio for a Gen4 drive
- Heatsink included—no extra purchase needed for PS5
- Reliable Micron NAND and Crucial’s solid reputation
- Low-profile design fits easily in tight spaces
Cons:
- Write speeds slightly lower than top-tier competitors
- Limited availability in higher capacities (currently maxes at 1TB)
Customer Reviews
“Installed this in my PS5 and it was plug-and-play with the heatsink. Booted up instantly, and I immediately noticed faster game loads in Spider-Man 2 and Elden Ring. Great value for a Gen4 drive!”
“Upgraded from a Gen3 SSD and the difference is noticeable. The heatsink keeps temps low even after hours of gaming, and the speed is perfect for my setup. Highly recommend for anyone building a budget gaming PC.”
Complete Buying Guide for What Kind Of Ssd For Gaming Best
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best SSD for gaming, we focus on real-world performance, not just specs. Key factors include interface type (NVMe Gen4 is fastest, SATA is budget-friendly), capacity (1TB minimum for modern games), thermal management (heatsinks prevent throttling), and compatibility (M.2 for PCs, specific sizes for PS5). We also prioritize reliability, warranty, and user feedback to ensure you get a drive that lasts through countless gaming sessions.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to spend $300 to get a great gaming SSD. Budget options like the Samsung 870 EVO offer massive improvements over HDDs for under $100. Mid-range NVMe drives like the Crucial P310 deliver Gen4 speeds for around $120–$150. If you’re building a high-end rig or want maximum capacity, the WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB is worth the investment. Always balance speed, size, and cost based on your needs.
Final Thoughts
Your SSD is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make for gaming. Whether you choose a lightning-fast NVMe drive, a rugged portable SSD, or a reliable SATA option, the right choice will reduce load times, improve responsiveness, and let you focus on what matters—winning. Based on our testing, the WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB stands out as the overall best, but every drive on this list excels in its category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I really need an NVMe SSD for gaming?
A: Not strictly necessary, but highly recommended. While SATA SSDs are much faster than HDDs, NVMe drives (especially Gen4) significantly reduce load times in modern games with large open worlds. If your system supports it, go NVMe.
Q: Can I use any M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A: No—your PS5 requires an M.2 NVMe SSD with a heatsink (or you must add one) and specific performance specs (PCIe Gen4, 5,500 MB/s minimum). The Crucial P310 and WD_BLACK SN850X (with heatsink) are excellent PS5-compatible choices.
Q: Will a faster SSD improve FPS in games?
A: Not directly. FPS (frames per second) depends on your GPU and CPU. However, a faster SSD reduces stuttering, pop-in textures, and load times—making gameplay feel smoother and more immersive.
Q: How much SSD storage do I need for gaming?
A: At least 1TB is recommended. Many AAA games now exceed 80GB, and having extra space ensures you can keep multiple titles installed without constant reinstalls.
Q: Are portable SSDs good for gaming?
A: Yes—for travel or secondary storage. While slightly slower than internal drives, portable SSDs like the Samsung T7 Shield are fast enough to run many games directly and are perfect for expanding console or laptop storage.
Ready to level up your gaming experience? Choose the SSD that fits your setup, budget, and play style from our expert-reviewed list above. Click any “Check Price” button to grab yours today and say goodbye to loading screens forever!