Looking for the best SSD to install Windows 10? You’re not alone. Whether you’re building a new PC, upgrading an old laptop, or just tired of slow boot times, choosing the right solid-state drive can make all the difference. With so many options on the market—from internal SATA drives to blazing-fast external USB-C SSDs—it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve tested and reviewed the top SSDs that offer the perfect blend of speed, reliability, compatibility, and value for running Windows 10 smoothly. Whether you need a budget-friendly upgrade or a high-performance drive for creative work, our expert picks will help you find exactly what you need.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 What Ssd To Buy To Put Windows 10 On Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. SanDisk 1TB Creator Phone SSD – Up to 1,000 MB/s – Compatible with MagSafe for Your USB-C Smartphone
This sleek and compact SSD is designed for creators who want fast, reliable storage that works seamlessly with modern devices. While it’s marketed toward iPhone users, its USB-C interface makes it fully compatible with Windows 10 laptops and desktops—perfect for installing or backing up your OS.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Supports Apple ProRes 4K video recording when used with compatible iPhones
✓ Delivers up to 1,000 MB/s read speeds for quick file transfers
✓ MagSafe-compatible design adds convenience for mobile workflows
✓ Includes one month of Adobe Creative Cloud (great for content creators)
✓ Durable build with shock-resistant casing
Why We Recommend It
Although this drive shines with Apple devices, its USB-C connectivity and high-speed performance make it a versatile choice for Windows 10 users who need portable, high-capacity storage. It’s especially useful if you dual-boot between mobile and desktop environments.
Best For
Creative professionals, hybrid workers, and anyone who values speed and portability across devices.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast transfer speeds ideal for large files
- Compact and lightweight
- Includes valuable software perks
- Works well with both iOS and Windows
Cons:
- Not optimized as a primary boot drive for desktops
- Limited to USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds (not Gen2x2)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great For Content Creators. I work with an iPhone 16 ProMax and it’s easy to navigate through.”
Customer Review: “Help gets a lot of video and pictures off phone, it does take a while to upload the pictures but it does help”
2. SanDisk 1TB Creator Pro Portable SSD with 2000MB/s Speed, USB-C, and IP65 Rating
Built for demanding workflows, this rugged external SSD delivers near-internal drive performance with the flexibility of portability. With 2000MB/s speeds and military-grade durability, it’s perfect for running Windows 10 from an external drive or storing your OS backup.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Blazing-fast 2000MB/s read speeds via USB 3.2 Gen2x2
✓ IP65-rated against water and dust
✓ Survives drops up to 3 meters
✓ USB-C connectivity with backward compatibility
✓ Sleek, professional design ideal for on-the-go use
Why We Recommend It
If you need an external SSD that can handle heavy multitasking, large software installations, or even act as a bootable Windows 10 drive, this is one of the fastest and most durable options available. It outperforms many internal SATA drives.
Best For
Professionals who travel frequently, video editors, and users who want a high-speed external boot drive.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional speed for an external drive
- Rugged, travel-ready build
- Reliable for daily intensive use
- Great value for performance
Cons:
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port for full speed
- Slightly bulkier than ultra-compact models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have a 6yr old MBP – It’s last of Intel generation…It’s decently fast and powerful for my needs, but the hard drive is only 250GB -and I am constantly dumping / backing up files to create HD space … So, I bought this 4TB SanDisk Drive and formatted it as a Boot Drive… So far, it has worked out gr”
Customer Review: “I bought this external hard drive to store all of my large graphic files and ensure they are safe. Fast, easy, and I know that every file is backed up and in one place. I am pleased with this purchase, and I bought a second one for all of my files at the office. Excellent quality for the price, easy”
3. Amazon Business American Express Card
Wait—this isn’t an SSD! But hear us out: if you’re buying an SSD to install Windows 10, chances are you’re shopping on Amazon. This business credit card offers 5% back on Amazon purchases, no annual fee, and expense management tools—making it a smart financial companion for your tech upgrades.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5% cash back on all Amazon and Whole Foods purchases
✓ No annual fee
✓ Built-in expense reporting and employee cards
✓ 0% intro APR on purchases
✓ Ideal for small businesses or frequent Amazon shoppers
Why We Recommend It
While not a storage device, this card helps you save money when purchasing your SSD—or any other Windows 10-compatible hardware. Over time, those rewards add up, especially if you’re upgrading multiple systems.
Best For
Small business owners, freelancers, and anyone who buys tech gear regularly on Amazon.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Significant savings on Amazon purchases
- No annual fee
- Useful business tools
Cons:
- Not a physical storage product
- Requires credit approval
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The Amazon Business Prime American Express Card is a strong option for small businesses that frequently make purchases from Amazon and its associated businesses, offering enhanced rewards and financing options for eligible Prime members with no annual fee. The card is less suitable for businesses th”
Customer Review: “It is a great card to have, we purchase all most everything on our card.”
4. Amazon Gift Card Balance Reload for Instant Account Funding and Easy Gifting
Another non-SSD item—but incredibly useful. Reload your Amazon gift card balance instantly to simplify future purchases, including that new SSD for your Windows 10 install. Set up auto-reload so you’re always ready to buy tech without entering payment details.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Instant funding to your Amazon account
✓ Schedule auto-reloads based on date or low balance
✓ Perfect for budgeting or gifting
✓ Secure and convenient
✓ Works with any Amazon purchase, including SSDs
Why We Recommend It
Streamline your next SSD purchase by pre-loading funds. It’s especially handy if you’re waiting for a sale or want to control spending while building or upgrading a Windows 10 machine.
Best For
Budget-conscious shoppers, gift givers, and anyone who wants hassle-free checkout on Amazon.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Instant and secure
- Helps manage spending
- No expiration on balance
Cons:
- Not a storage solution
- Limited to Amazon ecosystem
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently used the Amazon.com Gift Card Balance Reload option, and I’m thoroughly satisfied with the process and the overall experience. Here’s my detailed review:ConvenienceThe Gift Card Balance Reload feature is incredibly convenient for anyone who shops frequently on Amazon. It allows me to add “
Customer Review: “In the quiet contemplation of our modern lives, where the complexity of desire meets the simplicity of provision, the Amazon Gift Card Balance Reload emerges as a tool of both practicality and subtle freedom. With a few deliberate clicks, one replenishes not merely a monetary sum, but the capacity t”
5. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD with 1050MB/s Speed, USB-C, and Cross-Platform Compatibility
Compact, affordable, and built for everyday use, the Crucial X9 delivers reliable performance for installing or backing up Windows 10. Its plug-and-play design works across Windows, Mac, Android, gaming consoles, and more.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Up to 1050MB/s read speeds
✓ IP55-rated for water and dust resistance
✓ Drop-resistant up to 7.5 feet
✓ USB-C and USB-A compatible
✓ Works with PS5, Xbox, Chromebooks, and more
Why We Recommend It
For users who want a no-fuss, durable external SSD that just works with Windows 10, the Crucial X9 is a standout. It’s fast enough for OS backups, app storage, or even running lightweight Windows installations externally.
Best For
Students, remote workers, gamers, and anyone needing reliable cross-platform storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Highly compatible with many devices
- Rugged and travel-friendly
- Silent operation (no moving parts)
Cons:
- Not as fast as Gen2x2 drives
- No hardware encryption
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love this SSD drive. I use it multiple times daily, and it works so well with my Windows 11 computers. I have used multiple backup drives that were HDD and would have to replace them within a short amount of time because of using them so frequently. I store all my family files on this SSD and use “
Customer Review: “I’ve been using the Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD for a few weeks now, and I’m seriously impressed. For those who want big storage without bulk, this is it.⸻What I love:• Compact & lightweight — It’s so small and thin, it easily fits in a jacket pocket or laptop bag without adding bulk.• Massive capac”
6. SSK 1TB External SSD with 2000MB/s Speed, USB 3.2 Gen2x2, and LED Indicator
This powerful external SSD punches above its weight with 2000MB/s speeds, dual cables, and a handy LED activity indicator. It’s perfect for users who want desktop-class performance in a portable form factor—ideal for running Windows 10 from an external drive.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 2000MB/s read/write speeds via USB 3.2 Gen2x2
✓ Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables
✓ LED indicator shows drive activity
✓ Aluminum casing for heat dissipation
✓ Plug-and-play on Windows, Mac, and Android
Why We Recommend It
If your laptop or desktop supports USB 3.2 Gen2x2, this SSD delivers near-internal NVMe speeds externally. It’s great for creating a bootable Windows 10 drive or storing large applications.
Best For
Power users, developers, and anyone with a compatible USB-C port who needs ultra-fast external storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Blazing-fast transfer rates
- Comes with both cable types
- Affordable for its performance tier
- Compact and stylish
Cons:
- Gets warm under heavy use
- Requires Gen2x2 port for max speed
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “What a great little drive. It even came with two different cables to make it more versatile. It’s compact, easy to use and very, very fast. I highly recommend it.”
Customer Review: “Really happy with this little SSD. It’s small and compact, so it’s easy to carry around and doesn’t take up any space in my bag. The speed is excellent — transfers are quick and smooth whether I’m using it with my laptop or phone. It does get a little warm if you’re using it extensively, but that’s “
7. Kingston 480GB A400 2.5″ Internal SSD for Upgrading Laptop or Desktop Performance
This affordable internal SSD is a classic upgrade choice for older laptops and desktops. With no moving parts and faster load times than traditional HDDs, it’s perfect for installing Windows 10 and breathing new life into aging hardware.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 7mm form factor fits most laptops
✓ Up to 500MB/s read speeds
✓ More reliable and durable than HDDs
✓ Low power consumption
✓ Easy installation with cloning software support
Why We Recommend It
For budget-conscious users upgrading an old machine, the Kingston A400 offers unbeatable value. It’s not the fastest SSD, but it dramatically improves boot times and system responsiveness under Windows 10.
Best For
Students, home users, and anyone upgrading an older PC or laptop on a tight budget.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Simple drop-in replacement for HDDs
- Improves system speed significantly
- Trusted brand with good warranty
Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives
- Only 480GB capacity (may fill up quickly)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’m rebuilding a Dell E6440 and the DVD drive was wearing out. So, I opted for an additional drive, instead. This SSD fits inside of a caddy sold on Amazon. The hardware installation was straightforward. But I’m not a professional so I waited until my Wife got home. She’s a Computer Science Grad. Fo”
Customer Review: “A laptop I was losing my patience with went from being “some old something I’ll use in a pinch” to “I can’t stop carrying this around the house with me” with one upgrade.I’d find some chores to do if I needed to reboot…it took some 3-4 minutes. Now it reboots in less than 30 seconds.Have to insta”
Complete Buying Guide for What Ssd To Buy To Put Windows 10 On
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing an SSD for Windows 10, focus on capacity (at least 256GB, but 500GB+ is ideal), interface type (SATA vs. NVMe vs. USB), form factor (2.5″, M.2, or external), and intended use (internal boot drive, external backup, or portable OS). Also consider durability, brand reputation, and whether you need cross-device compatibility. For most users, a 500GB–1TB SSD offers the best balance of space and cost.
Budget Planning
SSDs range from under $30 for basic 240GB SATA drives to over $150 for high-speed 2TB NVMe models. Set a budget based on your needs: if you’re just installing Windows 10 on an old laptop, a $40 Kingston A400 will do. If you’re building a new system or need fast external storage, invest in a 1TB USB-C SSD like the SanDisk Creator Pro or SSK model. Don’t forget to factor in cloning software or enclosures if needed.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading to an SSD is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to a Windows 10 system. Whether you choose an internal drive for speed or an external one for flexibility, any of our top picks will deliver a noticeably smoother experience. Prioritize reliability, compatibility, and real-world performance over specs alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I install Windows 10 on an external SSD?
A: Yes! You can create a bootable Windows 10 installation on an external SSD using tools like Rufus or Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool. Just ensure your BIOS/UEFI supports booting from USB, and use a fast drive (like the SanDisk Creator Pro or SSK) for best performance.
Q: What’s the minimum SSD size for Windows 10?
A: Microsoft recommends at least 32GB, but realistically, you’ll want 256GB or more. Windows 10 itself takes ~20–30GB, and updates, apps, and files quickly fill up smaller drives.
Q: Is NVMe better than SATA for Windows 10?
A: NVMe drives are significantly faster than SATA SSDs, but for everyday Windows 10 use (browsing, office work, media), the difference isn’t always noticeable. SATA is fine for most users; go NVMe if you handle large files or want maximum speed.
Q: Do I need special software to clone my old drive to an SSD?
A: Many SSDs include cloning software (e.g., Acronis True Image). If not, free tools like Macrium Reflect or Clonezilla work well. Always back up data before cloning.
Q: Can I use the same SSD for Windows 10 and file storage?
A: Absolutely. Most users install Windows 10 and store documents, photos, and apps on the same SSD. Just ensure you have enough capacity—1TB is ideal for mixed use.
Ready to supercharge your Windows 10 experience? Whether you’re upgrading an old machine or building a new one, the right SSD makes all the difference. Check out our top recommendations above and click through to find the perfect match for your needs—and don’t forget to grab it at the best price while supplies last!