When it comes to gaming, every second counts—whether you’re loading into a match, fast-traveling across open worlds, or booting up your system. The right SSD doesn’t just improve performance; it transforms your entire gaming experience. With faster load times, smoother gameplay, and support for next-gen consoles and PCs, upgrading to a high-speed NVMe SSD is one of the smartest moves a gamer can make. In this roundup, we’ve tested and compared the top SSDs on the market to help you find the best SSD for gaming in 2024.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Which Ssd Is Best For Gaming Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink for PlayStation 5 and High-Speed Gaming
The WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink is built for gamers who demand top-tier performance and reliability. Whether you’re upgrading your PlayStation 5 or building a high-end gaming PC, this SSD delivers blazing-fast speeds and excellent thermal management thanks to its integrated heatsink.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sequential read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for near-instant game loads
- ✓ Built-in heatsink prevents thermal throttling during long gaming sessions
- ✓ 2TB capacity gives you room for dozens of AAA titles
- ✓ Optimized for both PS5 and PC gaming rigs
- ✓ Uses Sandisk TLC 3D NAND for durability and long-term reliability
Why We Recommend It
This SSD strikes the perfect balance between speed, capacity, and cooling—making it ideal for serious gamers. We tested it on both a custom gaming PC and a PS5, and in both cases, load times dropped dramatically compared to older Gen3 drives.
Best For
Gamers looking for a future-proof, high-performance SSD that works seamlessly with PlayStation 5 and high-end desktops.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds
- Heatsink included—no need to buy separately
- Great thermal performance under load
- Reliable and consistent performance over time
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than non-heatsink versions
- Overkill for casual or older systems
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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.”
Customer Review: “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.”
2. WD_Black SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD – Gen4 PCIe, M.2 2280, Up to 7,250 MB/s Read Speed, Up to 6,900 MB/s Write
The WD_Black SN7100 is a newer addition to the WD gaming SSD lineup, offering impressive Gen4 performance at a more accessible price point. With read speeds up to 7,250 MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900 MB/s, it’s designed for gamers who want high-octane performance without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 interface for maximum bandwidth
- ✓ Up to 35% faster than previous-gen drives
- ✓ 2TB capacity ideal for large game libraries
- ✓ M.2 2280 form factor fits most modern motherboards
- ✓ Built with Sandisk’s next-gen TLC 3D NAND
Why We Recommend It
We were impressed by how consistently this drive performs under real-world gaming loads. It doesn’t have a built-in heatsink, but we didn’t notice any thermal throttling during extended play sessions on a well-ventilated PC.
Best For
PC gamers building or upgrading a Gen4-compatible system who want flagship-level speed without the premium price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for Gen4 performance
- Fast boot and load times across all tested games
- Reliable and quiet operation
- Easy installation—just plug and play
Cons:
- No included heatsink (may need aftermarket cooling)
- Not compatible with PCIe 5.0 systems (but still very fast)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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. Using CrystalDiskMark, I consistently saw around 7000 MB/s read and 6200 MB/s write.”
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!!”
3. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD for High-Performance Gaming and Fast Load Times
This version of the WD_BLACK SN850X comes without a heatsink, making it a more budget-friendly option while still delivering the same core performance. It’s perfect for gamers who already have motherboard heatsinks or plan to use it in a well-cooled chassis.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Same 7,300 MB/s read speeds as the heatsink model
- ✓ 2TB of high-quality Sandisk TLC 3D NAND storage
- ✓ Lower price point than the PS5-ready version
- ✓ Compatible with most M.2 slots on gaming motherboards
- ✓ Ideal for PC gamers who don’t need console compatibility
Why We Recommend It
If you’re building a gaming PC and don’t need the PS5-specific heatsink, this is the smarter buy. You get nearly identical performance at a lower cost—just make sure your motherboard has adequate cooling.
Best For
Budget-conscious PC gamers who want top-tier NVMe performance without paying extra for features they don’t need.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Same speed as premium models
- More affordable than the heatsink variant
- Reliable and durable construction
- Great for upgrading older gaming rigs
Cons:
- No built-in heatsink (requires third-party cooling)
- Not optimized for PS5 out of the box
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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.”
Customer Review: “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.”
4. Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive, Speeds Up to 1,050MB/s
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD isn’t your typical internal gaming drive—but don’t let that fool you. For gamers who travel, stream, or need backup storage for large game libraries, this compact powerhouse offers fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds and military-grade durability.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact and lightweight—fits in your pocket
- ✓ USB 3.2 Gen 2 delivers up to 1,050 MB/s transfer speeds
- ✓ AES 256-bit hardware encryption for security
- ✓ Shock-resistant and built to last
- ✓ Works with PC, Mac, and even some consoles via USB
Why We Recommend It
While not ideal as a primary boot drive, the T7 is perfect for storing and backing up games, especially if you play on multiple systems or want to carry your library to a friend’s house.
Best For
Gamers who need portable, reliable storage for backups, game transfers, or multi-device use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely portable and durable
- Fast enough for external game storage
- Includes USB-C and USB-A cables
- Great for content creators and streamers
Cons:
- Slower than internal NVMe drives
- Not suitable as a primary OS or game boot drive
- Limited to 1TB in this model (higher capacities cost more)
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.”
5. WD_Black SN8100 2TB NVMe SSD – PCIe 5.0×4, M.2 2280, Up to 14,900MB/s Read Speed
The WD_Black SN8100 is one of the fastest consumer SSDs available, leveraging PCIe 5.0 technology to deliver mind-blowing speeds up to 14,900 MB/s read and 11,000 MB/s write. It’s built for enthusiasts and future-proof gaming rigs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe 5.0 interface doubles the bandwidth of Gen4
- ✓ Sequential read speeds up to 14,900 MB/s
- ✓ Up to 100% more power efficient than Gen4 drives
- ✓ 2TB capacity with excellent endurance rating
- ✓ Backward compatible with Gen4 systems
Why We Recommend It
If you’ve invested in a high-end AMD Ryzen 7000 or Intel 13th/14th Gen system with PCIe 5.0 support, this SSD unlocks the full potential of your hardware. Load times are nearly instantaneous.
Best For
Enthusiast gamers and content creators with PCIe 5.0-compatible systems who want the absolute fastest storage available.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched speed for gaming and file transfers
- Excellent power efficiency
- Future-proof investment
- Backward compatible with older systems
Cons:
- Requires PCIe 5.0 motherboard for full performance
- Higher price per GB than Gen4 drives
- May run hot without proper cooling
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Coming from SN850x, those m.2 were already so fast but this one is almost double the speed, loading window only takes 3s (after initial mobo check). Heat management is not an issue at all unlike Samsung 9100 Pro that runs much hotter and very easy to install.”
Customer Review: “Expanding the storage on my children’s PlayStation 5 was a worthwhile investment. The chosen solution offers excellent value, rapid performance, and ample capacity for future game downloads, eliminating the need to delete existing titles.”
Complete Buying Guide for Which Ssd Is Best For Gaming
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best SSD for gaming, we focus on four key areas: speed, capacity, compatibility, and cooling. NVMe Gen4 drives like the WD_BLACK SN850X offer the sweet spot for most gamers, while Gen5 drives like the SN8100 are ideal for cutting-edge builds. Always check your motherboard or console specs to ensure compatibility.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get great gaming performance. Budget around $100–$150 for a quality 1TB Gen4 SSD, or $180–$250 for 2TB. If you’re building a new high-end PC, consider investing in a Gen5 drive for future-proofing. Remember: more capacity means fewer deletions and faster access to your favorite games.
Final Thoughts
The best SSD for gaming depends on your setup, budget, and goals. For most players, the WD_BLACK SN850X (with or without heatsink) offers unbeatable value. Console gamers should prioritize PS5-compatible models, while PC builders can choose based on their motherboard’s PCIe generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I really need an NVMe SSD for gaming?
A: While not strictly necessary, an NVMe SSD dramatically reduces load times, improves system responsiveness, and enhances overall gaming immersion—especially in open-world titles. It’s one of the most impactful upgrades you can make.
Q: Can I use any M.2 SSD in my PlayStation 5?
A: No—your PS5 requires an NVMe SSD with a heatsink (or you must add one) and specific speed and size requirements. The WD_BLACK SN850X with heatsink is officially recommended and tested for PS5 compatibility.
Q: Is PCIe 5.0 worth it for gaming right now?
A: For most gamers, PCIe 4.0 is still plenty fast. However, if you have a new high-end PC with PCIe 5.0 support and plan to keep it for years, investing in a Gen5 SSD like the WD_Black SN8100 ensures you’re ready for future games and applications.
Q: How much SSD storage do I need for gaming?
A: We recommend at least 1TB for casual gamers and 2TB or more for serious players. Modern AAA games can take up 100GB+ each, so capacity fills up quickly.
Q: Does an SSD improve FPS in games?
A: Not directly—FPS is handled by your GPU and CPU. However, an SSD eliminates stuttering, reduces texture pop-in, and speeds up level loads, making gameplay feel smoother and more responsive.
Ready to level up your gaming experience? Whether you’re upgrading your PS5, building a new rig, or just tired of waiting on load screens, one of these SSDs will deliver the speed and reliability you need. Click any “Check Price” button above to find the best deal and start gaming faster today!