Choosing the right SSD size can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Whether you’re upgrading an old laptop, building a new PC, or just need more storage for games and files, knowing what size SSD you should buy today depends on your usage, budget, and future needs. In this guide, we’ve tested and compared the top SSDs across different capacities—from budget-friendly 256GB drives to high-capacity 2TB powerhouses—to help you pick the perfect fit.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 What Size Ssd Should I Buy Today Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Samsung 870 EVO 1TB SATA III 2.5 Inch Internal SSD for PC and Laptop
The Samsung 870 EVO 1TB is a standout choice for anyone asking what size SSD should I buy today—it strikes the perfect balance between capacity, speed, and long-term reliability. Whether you’re upgrading an aging laptop or adding storage to a desktop, this drive delivers consistent performance that rivals much pricier NVMe options.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sequential read/write speeds up to 560/530 MB/s—maxing out SATA III limits
- ✓ Up to 600 TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance with a 5-year warranty
- ✓ Advanced 3D NAND technology for improved durability and efficiency
- ✓ Broad compatibility with PCs, laptops, and even some consoles
Why We Recommend It
This SSD is built for users who want enterprise-grade reliability without the enterprise price tag. It’s fast enough for gaming, video editing, and multitasking, while the 1TB capacity gives you room to grow without breaking the bank.
Best For
General users, students, and professionals who need a reliable, high-performance SSD for everyday computing and moderate workloads.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent real-world performance and consistency
- Proven track record with Samsung’s reputation for quality
- Great value for a 1TB drive with long lifespan
- Easy installation and wide system compatibility
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than budget SATA drives
- Not as fast as NVMe alternatives (but still very capable)
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 (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!”
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. There are SATA III drives available with real ECC error correction and super durable enterprise-grade drives—try finding that in NVMe!”
2. Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD, up to 540MB/s
If you’re looking for massive storage at a surprisingly low price, the Crucial BX500 2TB answers the question what size SSD should I buy today with a resounding “go big!” This drive offers excellent value, especially for users who need ample space for games, media, or backups without sacrificing SATA-level speeds.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Impressive 2TB capacity at a budget-friendly price point
- ✓ Read/write speeds up to 540/500 MB/s—solid for SATA III
- ✓ 45x more energy efficient than traditional HDDs
- ✓ Lightweight and shock-resistant design ideal for laptops
Why We Recommend It
The BX500 proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get serious storage. While it lacks a DRAM cache (common in budget drives), it still delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks and is perfect for secondary storage or large-file workflows.
Best For
Gamers, content creators, and anyone needing large-capacity storage on a budget. Also great as a secondary drive in dual-drive setups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional value per gigabyte
- Reliable brand with good customer support
- Low power consumption extends laptop battery life
- Easy drop-in replacement for old HDDs
Cons:
- No DRAM cache may affect sustained write performance
- Plastic casing feels less premium than metal-bodied drives
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 good for sustained write performance: ❌ Bragging rights on read and write speed: ❌ On the other hand, it works perfectly for basic upgrades.”
Customer Review: “I recently purchased the Crucial BX500 4TB SSD and wanted to share my experience so far. Here’s a breakdown of its performance and features: Performance—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 for my photo library and video projects.”
3. Samsung Electronics 870 EVO 2TB 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD
When it comes to answering what size SSD should I buy today for heavy workloads or future-proofing, the Samsung 870 EVO 2TB is a no-brainer. It combines massive capacity with Samsung’s legendary reliability, making it ideal for power users who refuse to compromise.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 2TB capacity with up to 2,400 TBW endurance
- ✓ Maxed-out SATA III speeds: 560/530 MB/s read/write
- ✓ 5-year limited warranty and Samsung Magician software support
- ✓ Ideal for workstations, media servers, or high-end gaming rigs
Why We Recommend It
This isn’t just storage—it’s an investment. With double the capacity of the 1TB model and four times the endurance, it’s built to handle years of intensive use while maintaining peak performance.
Best For
Professionals, video editors, streamers, and enthusiasts who need high-capacity, high-reliability storage for demanding applications.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched reliability and longevity in the SATA category
- Consistent performance even under heavy load
- Large capacity reduces need for external drives
- Trusted brand with excellent firmware updates
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to budget drives
- Overkill for casual users who only browse and stream
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 (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.”
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. There are SATA III drives available with real ECC error correction and super durable enterprise-grade drives—try finding that in NVMe!”
4. Samsung 870 EVO 500GB SATA III 2.5 Inch Internal SSD for PC Upgrade
The 500GB Samsung 870 EVO is the sweet spot for users who want proven performance without overspending. If you’re wondering what size SSD should I buy today for a basic upgrade or secondary system, this drive delivers Samsung quality at a manageable capacity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Reliable 500GB capacity for OS, apps, and essential files
- ✓ Same 560/530 MB/s speeds and 600 TBW endurance as larger models
- ✓ Compact 2.5-inch form factor fits most laptops and desktops
- ✓ Backed by Samsung’s 5-year warranty and Magician toolkit
Why We Recommend It
It’s hard to beat the peace of mind that comes with a Samsung SSD. This 500GB model is perfect for reviving an older machine or building a lightweight system where speed matters more than sheer storage.
Best For
Students, home users, and anyone upgrading from an HDD who needs a fast, reliable boot drive without excess capacity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Trusted brand with consistent firmware support
- Fast boot and load times for everyday computing
- Low failure rate and strong resale value
Cons:
- 500GB may fill up quickly with modern games and apps
- Not the cheapest option in its class
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 (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.”
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.”
5. fanxiang 256GB SATA SSD 2.5” SSD SATA III 6 Gb/s Internal Solid State Drive Up to 560 MB/s
For ultra-budget builds or lightweight systems, the fanxiang 256GB SSD offers surprising value. While small in capacity, it’s a solid answer to what size SSD should I buy today if you’re on a tight budget or need a basic OS drive.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Affordable entry point for SSD upgrades
- ✓ Reads up to 560 MB/s—matching premium SATA drives
- ✓ Supports TRIM, S.M.A.R.T., and wear-leveling for longevity
- ✓ Lightweight and energy-efficient
Why We Recommend It
Don’t let the low price fool you—this drive performs reliably for everyday tasks. It’s perfect for reviving an old netbook or serving as a minimal boot drive in a dual-storage setup.
Best For
Budget-conscious users, secondary systems, or as a temporary OS drive while saving for larger storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very low cost per gigabyte for a name-brand SSD
- Decent speeds for web browsing and office work
- Easy installation with no drivers needed
Cons:
- 256GB fills up fast with Windows and modern apps
- Limited long-term reliability data compared to Samsung/WD
- No included cloning software or accessories
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Haven’t benched too many hours with it yet, early in but tested throughput against my other name-brand SSD’s it measures up, so for the price this seems like a good expenditure. As always time will tell but so far it is working fine and up to specs.”
Customer Review: “This drive replaced a slower and older drive for a Ubuntu Linux computer. Installed out of the box without any problems or issues. Has good boot times. The long term reliability is unknown, but it was a good buy for about $20.00.”
6. Western Digital 2TB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive SSD
The WD Blue SA510 2TB combines Western Digital’s trusted reputation with generous capacity, making it a strong contender when deciding what size SSD should I buy today for media-heavy users.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 2TB capacity ideal for games, videos, and backups
- ✓ SATA III 6 Gb/s interface with reliable performance
- ✓ WD F.I.T. Lab certified for compatibility and durability
- ✓ Sleek 7mm design fits most laptops
Why We Recommend It
Western Digital is known for consistent quality, and the SA510 lives up to that standard. It’s not the fastest SATA drive, but it’s rock-solid for long-term storage and everyday use.
Best For
Users who prioritize brand reliability and large storage over cutting-edge speed—great for consoles, desktops, and backup drives.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Trusted brand with global support network
- Good balance of price and capacity
- Compatible with Xbox One, PS4, and most PCs
- Low failure rate in real-world usage
Cons:
- Performance lags slightly behind Samsung EVO series
- No included cloning software
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “OK, besides the initial glitches with Windows, once I updated the SSD Firmware with WD/Sandisk Dashboard the drive worked perfectly! That said, my initial issues drove me nuts trying to update the firmware in Windows!!! I blame Microsoft more than WD for this instance. I would still buy WD drives over others.”
Customer Review: “I recently replaced the original hard disk drive (HDD) in my Xbox One X with the Western Digital 1TB WD Blue SA510 SATA SSD, and the results have been nothing short of phenomenal. This upgrade has completely transformed my console, making it feel faster and more responsive in every aspect.”
7. WD Green 480GB Internal PC SSD – SATA III 6 Gb/s, 2.5″/7mm – WDS480G2G0A
The WD Green 480GB is an eco-conscious SSD that answers what size SSD should I buy today for lightweight, energy-efficient systems. It’s not built for speed demons, but it excels in low-power environments.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-low power draw extends laptop battery life
- ✓ SLC caching boosts short-burst write performance
- ✓ Shock-resistant and WD F.I.T. Lab certified
- ✓ 480GB offers more room than typical budget drives
Why We Recommend It
If you’re building a silent PC, upgrading an old laptop, or just want a green storage solution, this drive delivers reliable performance with minimal energy use.
Best For
Eco-friendly builds, older laptops, and systems where power efficiency matters more than raw speed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very low power consumption
- Good capacity for the price
- Reliable for light workloads
- Quiet and cool operation
Cons:
- Slower sustained write speeds due to SLC caching limits
- Not ideal for gaming or video editing
- Basic feature set with no advanced software
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using WD hard drives as long as I’ve been playing with computers, we’re talking about the late 1980s. I’ve installed dozens of them in new builds, upgrades and repairs. This is the first time I’ve tried one of their SSDs. This SSD replaced a WD Blue hard disk and the machine now boots up much faster.”
Customer Review: “I’ve been using WD hard drives as long as I’ve been playing with computers, we’re talking about the late 1980s. I’ve installed dozens of them in new builds, upgrades and repairs. This is the first time I’ve tried one of their SSDs. This SSD replaced a WD Blue hard disk and the machine now boots up noticeably quicker.”
Complete Buying Guide for What Size SSD Should I Buy Today
Essential Factors We Consider
When recommending SSDs, we evaluate capacity, speed, endurance (TBW), brand reputation, warranty, and real-world performance. For most users, what size SSD you should buy today hinges on balancing current needs with future growth. A 500GB–1TB drive suits general use, while 2TB+ is ideal for media creators or gamers. Always check compatibility with your device’s interface (SATA vs. NVMe) and physical space.
Budget Planning
SSD prices have dropped significantly, but capacity still impacts cost. Budget options like the fanxiang 256GB start under $25, while premium 2TB drives like the Samsung 870 EVO run $150–$200. We recommend allocating at least 20% of your build budget to storage—it’s one of the best upgrades you can make for system responsiveness.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what size SSD should I buy today, but our top picks cover every use case and budget. Whether you need a fast boot drive or a massive storage vault, investing in quality SSD technology will breathe new life into any system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is 500GB SSD enough for everyday use?
A: Yes—for most users. 500GB gives you room for Windows, essential apps, and some games or files. However, if you store lots of videos or photos, consider 1TB or more.
Q: Should I buy SATA or NVMe SSD?
A: NVMe is faster, but SATA is cheaper and compatible with older systems. If your device supports NVMe, go for it—but SATA SSDs like the Samsung 870 EVO still offer excellent performance for daily tasks.
Q: Can I use an SSD in an old laptop?
A: Absolutely! Most laptops from the last 10 years support 2.5-inch SATA SSDs. Just ensure the drive thickness (usually 7mm) fits your bay.
Q: How long do SSDs last?
A: Modern SSDs like the Samsung 870 EVO can last 5–10 years under normal use, thanks to high TBW ratings and wear-leveling tech.
Q: Do I need to install drivers for my SSD?
A: No—SSDs work plug-and-play with modern operating systems. Use manufacturer tools (like Samsung Magician) for optimization and monitoring.
Still unsure what size SSD you should buy today? Start with our 🏆 Best Choice—the Samsung 870 EVO 1TB—for the perfect mix of speed, capacity, and reliability. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare deals and upgrade your system today!