Storage is an essential component of a PC, laptop, or any smart gadget. You can not make a PC without having system storage. Storage technology has developed a lot and is still improving as time passes. SSD is a standard storage technology that is widely used by all types of users. There are various types of SSDs based on speed, interface, connectivity protocols, utilization, etc. We have selected some of the best SSDs for gaming according to price, availability, and user convenience.
What to Check While Buying the Best SSD for Gaming
Compatibility: One of the most important things you have to check before buying a new SSD is the compatibility with the motherboard. If you are getting an NVMe or PCIe-based SSD, you will also have to check the processor support for generations and lanes.
The fastest SSDs for gaming are mostly M.2 NVMe-based. They have different generations and revisions; you will have to check the motherboard specifications before buying a new SSD.
Types: There are numerous types of SSDs for gaming PCs, and they keep growing every day. The oldest version is SATA SSD; this type of SSD uses the same interface and protocol as a traditional HDD with SATA connectivity.
Then, there is M.2 SATA, which has a similar data transfer speed as the SATA port, up to 6Gbps. After that, you will find NVMe-based SSDs that share bandwidth with PCIe lanes of CPU or motherboards based on specifications.
More recent ones are U.2 and DRAM-based SSD storage facilities, which are not very common. If you need the best SSDs for gaming without any compromises, choose SSDs that are PCIe 4.0-based NVMe or PCIe add-on card base SSDs.
They are blazing fast in the data process and responsiveness. Furthermore, if you need reliable and secure storage along with super-fast performance, choose PCIe NVMe SSDs with MLC chips and additional cache memories.
Capacity: You have to decide the storage size of the SSD. The large ones tend to be pricier, but they provide value over the smaller ones. It is always better to buy medium or large ones for better overall performance.
For example, a 256Gb SATA SSD has less sequential read/write speed than its 512Gb and 1 TB versions. We have seen this in NVMe SSDs too. The bigger the storage size, the better.
Budget: Another important factor is your budget for storage units. You must have an adequate budget if you want the best SSD for gaming in a large capacity. Also, no one should choose small variations in late 2021. You can buy a 512GB NVMe SSD for under 80 USD and a 1TB high-quality SSD for over 150 USD.
If you have an additional budget, you can get a 512GB PCIe-based NVMe SSD along with another 1TB or 2TB SATA SSD. In this way, you can install the OS and important apps on the super-fast NVMe SSD. Other files and game files can be stored in the SATA SSD drive. Furthermore, you can ask the experts to guide you according to the estimated total budget.
Warranty Period: Warranty offers peace of mind. The more the warranty, the better, but this is true for well-known brands. You should buy SSDs with at least 5 years of warranty. Most of the SSDs in the market come with 3 to 5 years of warranty.
Some brands even provide replacement warranties for problems and sudden deaths. Our favorite brands are Samsung, Micron, and Corsair. Furthermore, do not forget to check the rated endurance capacity.
Where to Find the Best SSD for Gaming
This is a widespread computer component. You will find SSDs in almost all types of computer hardware shops worldwide. However, the latest models and ultra-fast SSDs are always in demand and rare to find.
To check availability, you can try online giants like eBay, Amazon, NewEgg, Walmart, PC part picker, etc. You can also find all types of SSDs in your local online-based computer shops.
You choose a reasonably priced SSD from the well-known and tested best NVMe SSD for gaming. The NVMe-based SSDs are The fastest SSDs for gaming. You will find plenty of high-quality choices in the market.
You can also buy from the computer shop from where you get your everyday gadgets. Furthermore, if you follow the guidelines or buy one of the suggested SSDs from the list, you will indeed have a great experience ahead.
Best SSD for Your Gaming PC
There are lots of different types of SSDs in the market. The suitable one you are looking for depends upon the motherboard and processor you use on your current PC or laptop. The fastest SSDs for gaming are generally the PCIe-based NVMe and U.2 storage solutions. We have checked many aspects and mentioned some of the best SSDs for gaming in 2021 in the following section
1. Crucial MX500
Form Factor: 2.5” 7mm | Transfer Interface/Protocol: SATA 3 / AHCI | Capacities: 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: Up to 560 MBps / 510 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Endurance: Up to 700 TBW
+ Offers exceptional performance being a SATA SSD
+ Includes hardware-based AES-256 encryptions for optimal protection
+ Integrates built-in power failure protection
+ Comes in four different storage capacities
+ Value for money
+ Supports TCG Opal 2.0 SED technology
+ Compatible with almost all external 2.5″ enclosures
– Old technology
– Utilizes SATA-based AHCI protocol
– The 250GB version is slower than the other variations
Crucial MX500 is the budget king S.S.D. for any type of user. You can get up to 2 TB of fast and responsive storage by spending a tiny amount of money comparing other alternatives.
So, we have placed it on the list as it provides the best storage solution for gamers who require a large capacity. This traditional SATA-based S.S.D. has a maximum read speed of 560MBps, which is quite good for large media and game files.
It is best if you get the 1 TB version for its exceptional sustainability compared to other available sizes. Suppose you don’t want to buy a higher-priced NVMe-based SSD. Then this should be your first choice.
It offers unbeatable value. Moreover, on online giants like Amazon, Walmart, NewEgg, etc., you will find quite a hefty amount of discounts now and then. This SSD also packs its toolbox and cloning application for users’ convenience.
2. Corsair MP600 Pro XT
Form Factor: M.2 2280 Double-sided | Transfer Interface/Protocol: PCIe 4.0 x4 / NVMe 1.4 | Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 7,100 MBps / 6,800 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Endurance: Up to 3,000 TBW
+ Improve sustained write speed
+ Comes with AES 256-bit encryption
+ Long warranty
+ Higher sequential read speed
+ PCle 4.0 performance supported
+ Impressive endurance
– Comparative expensive
– More power efficiency
Secondly, I would like to recommend the Corsair MP600 Pro XT. And for sure, it’s among the best high-end SSDs for gaming. You can buy for robust performance if the heatsink or water block for the cooling system is your priority; this SSD must be on your bucket list.
Being a comparatively recent product, Corsair 600 has already gotten a big name. People also love its air-cooled MP600 Pro XT features the most. Besides, you will definitely love its high endurance performance.
You can find this high-end SSD with capacities of 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB. Both of them are available with a proper heatsink. However, the water-cooled hydro X variant is not available in the 1 TB card.
Besides, if you consider its price, its performance, and competitors’ prices, I cannot say that you will be happy. Still, I cannot deny that it lacks anything when it comes to performance. So, if you plan to build your PC with a high-end SSD, just give it a chance.
3. WD. Blue SN550
Form Factor: M.2 2280 Single-sided | Transfer Interface/Protocol: PCIe 3.1 x4 / NVMe 1.3 | Capacities: 250GB, 500GB, 1TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 2,400 MBps / 1,750 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Endurance: Up to 600 TBW
+ Comparatively affordable
+ Long-term warranty
+ Excellent endurance
+ Available Single-sided PCB at all capacities
+ Impressive power efficiency
+ Variations in capacities
– Unflattering aesthetic
– Relatively smaller cache
– Poor write speed
Next, we have WD. Blue SN550 is recommended for people looking for an affordable SSD with excellent budget value. With a complete five-year warranty, this budget-packed SSD will provide you with a satisfying overall performance.
The power efficiency and endurance of this SSD must attract your attention. Years back, WD didn’t offer this card with more than 500GB. But now, you can find it with 1TB.
The sequential read speed of this SSD is up to 2,400 MBps, where the write speeds of up to 1,750 MBps. This can be a fact, and you might get disappointed in it. Also, the smaller cache can be a reason to avoid it.
But if you consider its price, I’m sure you will understand. Also, this budget SSD comes with supported Trim and SMART data reports. Besides, many standard flash management technologies are also available here to aid the NAND flash’s longevity.
4. Seagate FireCuda 530
Form Factor: M.2 2280 Double-sided | Transfer Interface/Protocol: PCIe 4.0 x4 / NVMe 1.4 | Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 7,300 MBps / 6,900 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Endurance: Up to 5,100 TBW
+ Long warranty with data recovery services
+ Excellent heatsink and structure
+ Includes XTS-AES 256-bit encryption
+ Satisfying overall performance
+ Advanced and sustained write speeds with great endurance
+ Ensures the fastest PCIe 4.0 performance
– Comparatively expensive
– Poor efficiency level
If price is your most minor thing to consider while buying an SSD, then the Seagate FireCuda 530 Cloud is a perfect option for you. This PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD is the lightning-fast one you should try, and it provides the best performance so far.
Though its flash interface speeds clocking may feel slightly less than a few alternatives, it works just perfectly on your PC. Indeed, it ensures quite longer and more reliable performance when used in daily life. In addition, it comes with a five-year warranty on all storage capacity variations, thus making it one of the best SSDs for gaming.
As for its robust performance, durably, and 3000 P/E cycles flash, the Seagate FireCuda 530 should be a clever choice if you are a professional. On the other hand, there are many cheaper options if you intend to do personal tasks or average gaming with it.
Plus, its thermal throttle-protected controller is assembled on a 12nm process with ASPM, ASPT, and L1.2 support. This is also offered in optional heatsink SKU options. Apparently, it is now thermally protected up to 90C, where 70C was the limit for previous models.
5. Samsung 860 PRO
Form Factor: 2.5” 7mmTransfer | Interface/Protocol: SATA 3 / AHCI | Capacities: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 560 MBps / 530 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Endurance: Up to 4,800 TBW
+ High-end SATA performance
+ Five Capacities available to 4TB
+ Realizable and great endurance
+ Comes with enough consistency
+ Pro-level Software package
– Extremely expensive compared to its performance
Samsung 860 PRO is, so far, Samsung’s top-line SSD, and it can be a great solution for professional work. This is one of the fastest SATA-based S.S.D. that is truly reliable even under a high load. With the new MJX controller and 64-layer 3D flash, this SSD is much faster and more compatible than the 850 Pro.
Its enormous 560/530MB/s read/write speed is the core reason for its fluent performance in high workloads. Therefore, it would be a worthy choice for any SATA-based home computer or office desktop.
Moreover, the MJX controller that has been used in the Samsung 860 PRO supports low-powered DDR4 memory. Because of a 64-layer disk, it is 30% more energy efficient. So, buying it would be a significant step since SATA-based computers are behind in energy saving.
Samsung also reduced its program time to 500 microseconds, which ensures a lag-free experience. Another fact you should consider is that this SSD supports TCG Opal hardware encryption and Microsoft’s Drive, which are great for SSD’s system adjustability.
6. Sabrent Rocket Q
Form Factor: M.2 2280 Double-sided | Transfer Interface/Protocol: PCIe 3.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3 | Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 3,300 MBps / 2,900 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years (with registration) | Endurance: Up to 1800 TBW
+ Rare 8TB options in the Rocket Q line
+ Five years of warranty
+ Supports software
+ excellent performance
+ Enough efficiency and consistency
+ 4K read and write scores in the Crystal DiskMark
– Poor write-durability ratings
– Can be throttled if there’s no cooler
– Price is high when considering its gigabyte number
If you are planning to buy the best “value for money” SSD for gaming, the Sabrent Rocket Q must be the best option for sure. This one performs the best among all M.2 SSDs. With its rare up to 8 TB variations and performance, it efficiently emits the needs of all types of professional requirements.
Also, if you are involved in video making/editing or game designing, then it is a convenient solution. It features multiple power states, which is an excellent benefit to mobile devices like laptops.
This SSD uses a Phison E12S NVMe controller, the latest variant of Phison E12. It allows the SSD to perform outstandingly while taking up a smaller footprint on the PCB. Moreover, Sabrent Rocket Q supports Trim, secure erase, and SMART data reporting, which are really helpful nowadays.
Like the Rocket NVMe 4.0, it also has a copper label on its top. Apparently, it is a great aid for keeping the SSD cool. Plus, the manufacturers offer some software support for making internal adjustments if needed.
7. Patriot Viper VPR100
Form Factor: M.2 2280 Double-sided w/heatsink | Transfer Interface/Protocol: PCIe 3.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3 | Capacities: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 3,300 MBps / 2,900 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Endurance: Up to 1600 TBW
+ Topnotch performance
+ Excellent consistency and endurance
+ Capacities available in up to 2TB
+ PCle 3.0 supported
+ Double-sided heatsink
– Write cache is small
– SSD Toolbox is missing
– Poor RGB light setting
Patriot Viper VPR100 could be a great choice if you are building a PC with a transparent case or for a case-less setup. Its integrated RGB will provide your PC with an eye-catching look. That’s why, if you are a full-time gamer or social platform streamer, it can greatly help you.
You can even customize the RGB through the VIPER RGB app. As for the performance, it comes with a 4 PCIe 3.0 setup. Besides, for additional cooling, its included heatsink is a great help to handle such aggressive and sudden pressures.
Since this SSD is made mainly targeting gamers, it can easily handle overclocking and extra workloads. Besides, its eight-channel controller offers a DRAM-based architecture to confirm its reliability under heavier workloads.
Patriot Viper VPR100 also supports Trim and SMART data reporting like the latest SSDs. But you may not like a few facts here. This SSD has storage variants ranging up to 2 TB, whereas most SSDs are available up to 4 TB. Also, it doesn’t provide an SSD Toolbox.
8. Crucial P5 M.2 NVMe SSD
Form Factor: M.2 2280 Single-sided | Transfer Interface/Protocol: PCIe 3.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3 | Capacities: 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 3,400 MBps / 3,000 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Endurance: Up to 1,200 TBW
+ Excellent Budget value
+ Topnotch results in benchmark
+ High-end write-durability ratings
+ 5 years of warranty
+ Great AES 256-bit encryption
+ Quite affordable
– Poor 4K write speed
– Often get hot
– Performance is not up to satisfaction
Built for gamers and professional workflows, the Crucial P5 M.2 NVMe SSD is one of the highest performers among the NVMe SSDs. It comes with a six-core NVMe controller along with Micron’s third-generation 96L TLC NAND flash.
This incredible SSD for gaming not only performs well but also protects your stored data with full hardware-based encryption. In addition, its six layers of adaptation make it much more durable and a reliable place to store your crucial digital data. Also, its Adaptive Thermal Protection is linked to the temperature sensors in the NAND components.
Moreover, Crucial P5 M.2 NVMe SSD comes with NVMe Autonomous Power State Transition (APST) to provide better efficiency. Apparently, it keeps the components much cooler and will throttle cooling while the temperature reaches 70°C.
Another appealing fact is the one-sided form factor that makes it convenient for mobile devices. Plus, the manufacturers feature “Acronis True Image cloning software,” which can be used to clone existing operating systems and user data over other SSDs.
9. SK Hynix Gold P31
Form Factor: M.2 2280 Single-sided | Transfer Interface/Protocol: PCIe 3.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3 | Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 3,500 MBps / 3,200 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Rated Endurance: Up to 1,200 TBW
+ Relatively affordable
+ Impressive endurance and power efficiency
+ Comes with AES 256-bit encryption
+ High-end overall performance
+ Built with single-side form factor
+ Long-term warranty
– Black P.C.B. is not available in the 1 TB capacity
– 2 TB comes to be a little bit slower than 1 TB.
Before you head towards the final option for today, I have SK Hynix Gold P31 to introduce you to. If you are looking for an affordable SSD with high-tier performance, don’t spend a second being confused about this option.
I am sure you will love its high-end features, including complete AES 256-bit encryption. Also, it is a pretty modern SSD that comes with the company’s 4D NAND flash, as they mostly use their own FABs.
This best SSD for gaming also comes with some drawbacks that disappoint you, but I can assure you that it’s nothing too profound. Well, the 2 TB capacity card is the only option that contains Black P.C.B. But that weird fact is, the 1 TB model is a little bit faster than its big brother, I mean 2TB.
Still, you can check it out, and I am sure you will be amazed at its extended features. Besides, the 3.5 GBps read and 3.2 GBps write speed is another fact that will grab your notice.
10. Samsung 980 Pro
Form Factor: M.2 2280 Single-sided | Transfer Interface/Protocol: PCIe 4.0 x4 / NVMe 1.3c | Capacities: 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB | Sequential Read/Write Speed: 7,000 MBps / 5,000 MBps | Warranty: 5 Years | Rated Endurance: Up to 1,200 TBW
+ High quality black colored PCB
+ Offers the industry’s standard AES 256-bit encryptions
+ Includes 5 years of warranty
+ Integrates Elpis 8nm NVMe SSD controller
+ Uses Samsung’s fastest V-NAND chips for unbeatable performance
+ Top-of-the-line data transfer speed
+ Sustainable performance of over 1 million random read/write IOPS
– A bit pricey
– Relatively low endurance rating
– Smaller capacity ones are slower than the large ones
Samsung 980 Pro is regarded as one of the best mainstream NVMe SSDs. This is certainly rare and always in demand in the market nowadays. You will have almost the maximum bandwidth of a PCIe 4.0 x4 slot with this SSD.
It also packs an additional DRAM cache for sustainable speed and performance. Certainly, it is great for photo editors and extreme gamers. You will have a super fast and smooth gaming experience with this SSD.
This might claim a bit more price premium compared to other NVMe SSDs in the market. Yet, you will have better durability, for which Samsung is known. It includes all the features that should be included in a top-tier SSD.
It is best if you get the 512GB or 1TB versions, as they come at discount prices from time to time. Overall, you will have a blazing-fast OS interface experience and super-fast boot time all the time.
FAQ.
Q: What is the best SSD for gaming?
A: Corsair MP600 Pro XT is the best SSD for gaming with high-tier performance. But we can only recommend this card if you are looking for a high-budget one. Considering the price, its performance is up to the mark.
The read-and-write speed must improve your gaming experience as well. However, if you are looking for the best affordable gaming SSD, you should go for the Crucial MX500 without any doubt.
The Samsung 980 Pro is the best option if your budget is mid-range and, at the same time, you are expecting high-end performance. We can assure you that gaming is also the most remarkable one.
Also, we have already disclosed the 10 best SSDs for gaming, and almost all of them are notably impressive in the case of gaming. So, you can check them right above to get your best pick.
Q: Does having a good SSD matter for gaming?
A: Yes, having a good SSD matters when it comes to PC gaming performance. Seemingly, SSD may not count as hardware to boost one’s gaming performance as it is just the storage of your PC, but things are completely not like that. The read and write speed of the SSD can boost your gaming performance in different ways. It can eventually reduce the loading time and improve the gaming speed.
Q: Which brand SSD is best?
A: Samsung and Crucial (Micron) are the best SSD brands. It’s because these brands provide the most reliable performance, and the rate of failure is low. Also, the cheapest SSDs from these brands are pretty improved and powerful. Corsair and WD also have their name when it’s the best SSD brands.
Q: Does SSD increase FPS?
A: No, SSD cannot increase the FPS, which means the Frame-per-second performance of your PC. Generally, SSD can boost performance in many ways, but it cannot help fix the poor FPS of your PC. You will have increased FSP with a high-end GPU. So, for an FPS boost, you should pair a good quality GPU along with a capable CPU with fewer bottlenecks.
Conclusion
Finally, we are positive that you can choose the right SSD for gaming from now on. Don’t forget to look into the checklist before making any purchasing decisions if the desired SSD in not in our suggestions.
Moreover, try to get the best possible storage device with a large capacity within your budget. You don’t need to get the fastest SSD for a gaming PC at an astronomical price. Thank you for checking this article out. Do not forget to ask us any questions you might have in your mind.
