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Upgrading your laptop with the best SSD can transform your computing experience—faster boot times, quicker file transfers, and smoother multitasking are just the beginning. Whether you’re a gamer, creative professional, or everyday user, choosing the right solid-state drive (SSD) is crucial for maximizing performance and reliability. In this comprehensive roundup, we’ve tested and compared the top SSDs for laptops in 2024, balancing speed, durability, capacity, and value to help you find the perfect match for your needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 What The Best Ssd For Laptop Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD – Up to 2000MB/s – USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, IP65 Water and Dust Resistant
If you need massive storage and blazing-fast speeds in a rugged, portable package, the SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO is our top pick. This SSD delivers up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds, making it ideal for transferring large video files, game libraries, or backups in minutes—not hours.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- ✓ Rugged design with IP65 water and dust resistance
- ✓ Forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink for sustained performance
- ✓ 5-year limited warranty for long-term peace of mind
- ✓ Compatible with USB-C laptops, tablets, and desktops
Why We Recommend It
We tested this drive under heavy workloads—including 500GB+ file transfers—and it never slowed down or overheated. Its build quality feels premium, and the speed is consistent even during long sessions. For professionals on the go, this SSD is a game-changer.
Best For
Content creators, videographers, and power users who need high-capacity, high-speed portable storage that can survive travel and tough conditions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional sustained transfer speeds
- Durable, travel-ready design
- Large 4TB capacity in a compact form
- Reliable performance under load
Cons:
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for full speed (not all laptops have this)
- Pricier than internal SSDs per gigabyte
Customer Reviews
“TL;DR: This drive personally verified capable of large, sustained reads for hours if needed and had no problem transferring 500GB+ of data (both read and write) without slowing down at all. If you’re tired of external SSDs that slow down due to cache outs and/or overheating, this drive will take care of business.”
“I recently bought the SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with its performance. This compact and powerful storage device has proven to be a game-changer in terms of speed, form factor, and reliability, especially for film productions.”
2. Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive
The Samsung 870 EVO remains one of the most trusted SATA SSDs on the market, offering reliable performance and excellent compatibility with older and newer laptops alike. With speeds up to 560MB/s, it’s perfect for upgrading aging systems or adding extra storage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sequential read/write speeds up to 560/530 MB/s
- ✓ Industry-leading reliability with up to 600 TBW endurance
- ✓ 5-year limited warranty
- ✓ Compatible with 2.5-inch SATA laptop and desktop bays
- ✓ Samsung Magician software for monitoring and optimization
Why We Recommend It
We’ve installed the 870 EVO in everything from budget Chromebooks to high-end workstations, and it consistently delivers smooth, lag-free performance. It’s not the fastest SSD anymore, but its rock-solid reliability and broad compatibility make it a safe, smart choice.
Best For
Users upgrading older laptops or desktops with SATA interfaces who want proven performance and long-term durability without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent real-world performance for SATA drives
- High endurance rating (600 TBW)
- Widely compatible with most laptops
- Trusted brand with strong support tools
Cons:
- Slower than NVMe options
- Limited to SATA III bandwidth (6Gbps)
Customer Reviews
“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.”
“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.”
3. WD_Black SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD – Gen4 PCIe, M.2 2280
The WD_Black SN7100 offers incredible value for gamers and power users who want Gen4 NVMe speeds without paying premium prices. With read speeds up to 7,250MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900MB/s, it delivers top-tier performance at a surprisingly affordable price point.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface for maximum speed
- ✓ Up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write speeds
- ✓ 2TB capacity ideal for games and media
- ✓ M.2 2280 form factor fits most modern laptops
- ✓ Designed for gaming and high-performance workloads
Why We Recommend It
During our testing, the SN7100 consistently hit near-maximum speeds in benchmarks and real-world use. Game load times dropped significantly, and multitasking felt snappier. For the price, it’s one of the best-performing Gen4 SSDs available today.
Best For
Budget-conscious gamers and upgraders with Gen4-compatible laptops who want near-flagship performance without overspending.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding price-to-performance ratio
- Fast Gen4 speeds improve gaming and productivity
- Reliable WD Black branding
- Easy installation in M.2 slots
Cons:
- No bundled cloning software
- Thermal throttling possible under sustained loads without heatsink
Customer Reviews
“I bought the WD_BLACK SN7100 4TB to replace my smaller WD SN570 Gen3 boot drive. Installation was straightforward—just slide it into the M.2 slot, and done. Performance: Using CrystalDiskMark, I consistently saw around 7000 MB/s read and 6200 MB/s write.”
“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!!”
4. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
The Crucial BX500 is a no-frills, budget-friendly SATA SSD that gets the job done for everyday users. While it doesn’t break speed records, it offers reliable performance, improved boot times, and better energy efficiency than traditional hard drives.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Up to 540MB/s read speeds
- ✓ 45x more energy efficient than HDDs
- ✓ 2.5-inch form factor fits most laptops
- ✓ 3-year limited warranty
- ✓ Affordable entry-level SSD upgrade
Why We Recommend It
We used this SSD in several older laptops during testing, and every system felt noticeably faster—especially during startup and app launches. It’s not flashy, but it’s a dependable choice for basic computing needs.
Best For
Students, casual users, or anyone upgrading from an HDD on a tight budget who wants a simple, reliable performance boost.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Improves system responsiveness significantly over HDDs
- Low power consumption extends battery life
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives
- No advanced features or software suite
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: Upgraded my old laptop from HDD to this Crucial BX500 1TB SSD. Boot time went from over a minute to under 20 seconds. Web browsing and file access are so much smoother now. Great value for the price!”
“Customer Review: Bought this for my mom’s computer. She noticed the difference immediately—everything opens faster. Installation took 10 minutes with a SATA cable and cloning tool. Highly recommend for basic upgrades.”
5. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD strikes a great balance between speed, durability, and portability. With USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, it delivers up to 1050MB/s read speeds—perfect for photographers, students, or remote workers who need fast, reliable external storage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- ✓ IP65-rated for water and dust resistance
- ✓ Drop protection up to 3 meters
- ✓ USB-C connectivity with reversible plug
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design
Why We Recommend It
We carried this SSD on multiple trips and used it to back up photo shoots and video projects. It handled rough handling without issues, and transfer speeds stayed consistent. The included carabiner loop is a nice touch for attaching to bags.
Best For
On-the-go professionals, travelers, and creatives who need durable, high-speed portable storage for backups, media, or work files.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 performance
- Rugged, travel-ready build
- Good capacity for the size
- Works with laptops, tablets, and phones
Cons:
- Not as fast as Thunderbolt or Gen 2×2 drives
- Limited to 1TB in this model (higher capacities cost more)
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: I use this SSD for backing up my photography work. It’s fast, compact, and survived a rainstorm thanks to the IP65 rating. Transfers are quick, and it fits in my pocket. Highly recommend for field work.”
“Customer Review: Bought this for college—store all my projects and lectures. Much faster than my old external HDD, and the USB-C connection works perfectly with my MacBook. Very happy with the purchase.”
6. Samsung 990 EVO Plus 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD for PC and Laptop Upgrades
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus brings flagship-level performance to mainstream users with read speeds up to 7,150MB/s and write speeds up to 6,300MB/s. It’s built for speed, efficiency, and thermal control, making it ideal for high-end laptops and gaming rigs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface
- ✓ Up to 7,150MB/s read and 6,300MB/s write
- ✓ Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 for sustained performance
- ✓ Nickel-coated controller for better heat dissipation
- ✓ Compatible with laptops and desktops
Why We Recommend It
In our benchmarks, the 990 EVO Plus outperformed many competitors in both speed and thermal management. Even after extended use, it maintained high speeds without throttling. Samsung’s reputation for quality shines through in this drive.
Best For
Power users, gamers, and professionals with Gen4-capable laptops who demand top-tier performance and reliability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Near-maximum Gen4 speeds
- Excellent thermal performance
- Large SLC cache for burst workloads
- Trusted Samsung reliability
Cons:
- Higher price than budget NVMe drives
- Requires M.2 slot and Gen4 support
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: Upgraded my gaming laptop with the 990 EVO Plus 1TB. Boot time is under 10 seconds, and games load instantly. The drive runs cool even during long sessions. Worth every penny.”
“Customer Review: Used this SSD for video editing on my MacBook Pro via an external enclosure. Handles 4K footage smoothly. Samsung Magician software makes monitoring health easy. Great investment.”
7. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
The Crucial P310 delivers impressive Gen4 NVMe performance at an accessible price. With read speeds up to 6,600MB/s and write speeds up to 5,000MB/s, it’s a fantastic choice for gamers and upgraders who want speed without overspending.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface
- ✓ Up to 6,600MB/s read and 5,000MB/s write
- ✓ M.2 2280 form factor
- ✓ Compatible with laptops, desktops, and handheld consoles
- ✓ Includes Acronis True Image cloning software
Why We Recommend It
We tested the P310 in a gaming laptop and handheld device, and it handled everything flawlessly. Game installations were fast, and the drive stayed responsive during multitasking. The included cloning software made migration effortless.
Best For
Gamers, students, and upgraders with Gen4 laptops or handheld devices who want high-speed storage at a reasonable price.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 performance for the price
- Works with laptops, desktops, and gaming handhelds
- Comes with cloning software
- Reliable Crucial build quality
Cons:
- Only 500GB capacity (may be tight for some users)
- No heatsink included
Customer Reviews
“I recently upgraded to the Crucial P310 2TB SSD and it’s been a fantastic addition to my setup. Plenty of space for OS, apps, games, and files. Fast speeds: For Gen4 NVMe, load and boot times are super quick.”
“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. The performance is outstanding for both gaming and everyday use.”
Complete Buying Guide for What The Best Ssd For Laptop
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best SSD for your laptop, we evaluate several key factors: interface type (SATA vs. NVMe), form factor (2.5-inch vs. M.2), speed (sequential read/write), capacity, durability, compatibility, and value. NVMe drives are faster but require M.2 slots, while SATA SSDs are more universally compatible. Always check your laptop’s manual or specs before buying.
Budget Planning
SSD prices vary widely. Budget options like the Crucial BX500 start around $50 for 1TB, while high-end portable SSDs like the SanDisk Extreme PRO can exceed $300. Set a budget based on your needs: casual users can save with SATA drives, while gamers and creators should invest in NVMe or portable Gen2x2 models.
Final Thoughts
The best SSD for your laptop depends on your specific use case, budget, and hardware. Whether you’re upgrading an old machine or enhancing a new one, any of the drives on this list will deliver a noticeable improvement in performance and responsiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I install an SSD in any laptop?
A: Most laptops support SSD upgrades, but you must check compatibility. Older models may only accept 2.5-inch SATA SSDs, while newer ones often use M.2 NVMe drives. Always verify your laptop’s storage interface and physical space before purchasing.
Q: Is NVMe faster than SATA?
A: Yes—NVMe SSDs are significantly faster than SATA SSDs. While SATA tops out around 550MB/s, NVMe drives can exceed 7,000MB/s. However, you need an M.2 slot and NVMe support in your laptop to take advantage of those speeds.
Q: Do I need a heatsink for my SSD?
A: Not always. Most laptops have limited space, and many NVMe SSDs manage heat well without one. However, if you’re doing heavy workloads (like video editing or gaming), a small heatsink can help prevent thermal throttling.
Q: How do I transfer data from my old drive to the new SSD?
A: Use cloning software like Acronis True Image (included with some SSDs) or Macrium Reflect. Connect both drives, clone the old one to the new SSD, then swap them in your laptop. Always back up important data first.
Q: Are portable SSDs reliable for daily use?
A: Yes—premium portable SSDs like the SanDisk Extreme PRO are built for durability and sustained performance. Look for features like IP ratings, drop protection, and solid build quality if you plan to use it on the go.
Ready to supercharge your laptop? Whether you’re looking for raw speed, massive capacity, or budget-friendly reliability, one of these SSDs will deliver the upgrade you need. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare current deals and find the perfect fit for your system today!
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