Switching to a solid-state drive is one of the best upgrades you can make for your PC. These devices significantly improve boot times, program responsiveness, and gaming performance, making your computer feel faster overall. However, not all SSDs are created equal. You can opt for high-end SSDs with top-notch read and write speeds, or you can choose more affordable options that offer solid performance without breaking the bank.
While many SSDs come in a 2.5-inch form factor and connect via a SATA port, newer NVMe and PCIe drives are becoming increasingly common. These drives offer faster speeds and can significantly enhance your PC’s performance. With so many options available, choosing the perfect SSD can be more complex than ever.
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At PCWorld, our reviewers have been testing PC hardware for decades. Our storage evaluations are rigorous and thorough, from performance benchmarks to real-world use. We understand what makes a product stand out, and only the best SSDs make it to our list. For more about our testing process, read on to the bottom of this article.
If you’re interested in portable storage solutions, check out PCWorld’s guide to the best external drives. We update our recommendations regularly, so you can always stay informed about the latest SSD options.
See below for our latest reviews and recommendations:
Samsung 870 EVO – Best SATA SSD
Pros
- Excellent performance, especially with small file operations
- Long writes don’t slow down like with the QVO
Price When Reviewed: 250GB/$40, 500GB/$70, 1TB/$130, 2TB/$250, 4TB/$480
If you’re looking for a traditional 2.5-inch SATA drive, the Samsung 870 EVO is an excellent choice. It’s the fastest SATA SSD we’ve tested, available in up to 4TB capacity, and offers great value for its speed. Samsung’s Magician SSD management software and long warranty period also add to its appeal. The EVO series is a top-tier SSD for good reason.
Read our full Samsung 870 EVO SATA SSD review
For more SSD reviews and recommendations, see DeFi Daily News.
Our Latest External Drive Reviews
NVMe SSD Setup: What You Need to Know
Be sure to check the compatibility of NVMe drives with your system before making a purchase. If your system supports NVMe and PCIe connections, these drives can significantly enhance your PC’s speed and responsiveness. However, older systems may not be compatible with NVMe SSDs, so it’s important to verify before buying. NVMe drives are ideal for users who transfer large amounts of data frequently, as they offer superior performance in these scenarios.
What to Look for in an SSD
When choosing an SSD, consider factors like capacity, price, and warranty. Look for drives with a solid warranty to ensure longevity and reliability. Additionally, pay attention to the type of connection technology used (SATA, PCIe, NVMe) as this can impact performance. It’s essential to choose an SSD that meets your specific needs and offers the best value for your budget.
SSDs vs. Hard Drives
While SSDs can be more expensive than traditional hard drives, they offer significantly faster speeds, making them an excellent choice for upgrading your PC. By combining an SSD for booting and a traditional hard drive for storage, you can strike a balance between speed and capacity. SSDs are the best upgrade you can make for your computer, providing a noticeable improvement in performance and responsiveness.
How We Test SSDs
Our drive tests are conducted on a Windows system with modern hardware to ensure optimal performance. Each test is performed on a newly formatted drive to provide accurate results. SSD performance can vary by capacity, so it’s essential to consider the specific capacity being tested. We strive to provide thorough and reliable reviews to help you make informed decisions when choosing an SSD for your PC.
For more SSD reviews and recommendations, visit DeFi Daily News for the latest trending articles and updates.
Upgrade your PC with the best SSDs today and experience a significant boost in speed and performance!