Top SSD Picks for 2025

If your computer is running slowly, and you’re frustrated with how long it takes for games and applications to load, switching to a solid-state drive (SSD) could make a big difference. SSDs are significantly faster than traditional hard drives. They can help your computer start up in just a few seconds, quickly open large files, and generally make everyday tasks much more responsive. It doesn’t matter if you’re upgrading a laptop, putting together a gaming PC, or just looking for extra storage for work or creative projects; the right SSD can boost your system’s performance.

But with a variety of options like PCIe Gen 4, Gen 5, SATA, and NVMe, it can be confusing to figure out which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best SSDs available, so you can choose one that offers a good mix of speed, storage capacity, and affordability, ensuring that you get a worthwhile upgrade without overspending on features you might not need.

When it comes to adding fast storage to a computer, a 2.5-inch SATA drive is usually the most budget-friendly option. It’s also one of the easiest to install because almost every computer made in the last 20 years has SATA connections. This makes SATA SSDs a smart choice for extending the life of older PCs. Installing one is straightforward; you just need to secure the SSD in a drive bay and connect it to the motherboard and power supply.

The downside of SATA drives is that they can’t match the speed of the newer NVMe drives, with SATA III maxing out at 600MB/s. However, they’re still much faster than traditional hard drives. Plus, large 1TB SATA SSDs are typically priced around $100, making them a good option for bulk storage.

If you have a newer computer, it likely has space for M.2 SSDs, which are the fastest on the market. M.2 drives can use either SATA or PCIe connections. The latter, known as NVMe drives, are much quicker—Gen3 models reach sequential write speeds of up to 3,000MB/s. Gen4 drives double this speed, but you need a compatible motherboard and processor to take full advantage.

For AMD users, this means having at least a Ryzen 3000 or 5000 CPU alongside an X570 or B550 motherboard. Intel users will need at least an 11th or 12th Gen processor with a Z490, Z590, or Z690 motherboard. Note that Gen4 SSDs are usually priced higher than Gen3 ones.

The latest Gen5 models offer speeds up to 16,000MB/s, but they’re often not worth the investment right now, as few applications and games can utilize these speeds. Instead of spending on a Gen5 drive, it may be better to invest in other components, like improving your graphics card.

For installing an M.2 SSD, you just need to attach it directly to the motherboard using a single screw, which makes installation easy and minimizes cable clutter. However, remember that SATA M.2 drives can fit in PCIe slots, but NVMe drives cannot fit in SATA-only slots, so make sure you choose the right one.

M.2 drives also come in different sizes, and while many motherboards support the standard size 2280, it’s a good idea to check your computer’s specifications before purchasing to ensure compatibility.

For external storage options, portable SSDs and USB drives differ slightly in features. When shopping for a portable SSD, it’s important to consider the connection type. Most people will benefit from a portable SSD with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt connection for faster data transfer rates. If you travel often, look for models that are IP-rated for water and dust resistance. Some brands even provide rugged versions designed for high durability.

If you’re considering upgrading your console, such as an Xbox Series X|S or PS5, the process is comparatively simpler than with a PC. For Xbox consoles, you can choose from options by Seagate and Western Digital, which are regularly on sale. For the PS5, look for NVMe storage with a built-in heatsink to avoid clearance issues.

In short, when choosing an SSD, aim for at least 1TB for solid performance and don’t fall for the latest tech unless you specifically need those features. Consider practical storage needs and check read/write speeds while shopping, since these factors will impact the overall performance. This way, you’ll find an SSD that fits your needs without paying extra for unnecessary features.