Cheapest SSD Fares Against Costs: Affordable Solid State Drives
Note: We have researched 13 SSDs for you.
Last updated on 25.07.24 um 02:32
In the fast-paced world of technology, finding the perfect blend of performance and affordability can be a tough feat. Solid-state drives (SSD) have revolutionized storage with their lightning-fast speeds, but often come with a high price tag. However, for those who prioritize cost without compromising on the essential boost in speed and reliability, there are options out there that won't break the bank.
In this guide, we delve into a range of SSDs that promise not only to inject new life into your computer but also to maintain fiscal prudence. Whether you're building a PC from scratch or upgrading your current setup, these selections aim to provide the best value for every dollar spent, ensuring you don't have to sacrifice performance for price.
In this guide, we delve into a range of SSDs that promise not only to inject new life into your computer but also to maintain fiscal prudence. Whether you're building a PC from scratch or upgrading your current setup, these selections aim to provide the best value for every dollar spent, ensuring you don't have to sacrifice performance for price.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
What to Look for in Cheapest SSDs
Important criteria
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Storage capacity
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Read and write speed
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Durability
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Brand reputation
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NAND type
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Controller quality
1.) Performance and Speed
It's important to pay attention to the performance level and speed of an SSD, which is measured in MB/s for both read and write operations. Entry-level SSDs may offer slower speeds compared to mid-range or high-end models, affecting data transfer times and overall system responsiveness. Additionally, look for SSDs with high IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second) ratings as they indicate better multitasking performance, particularly beneficial when running multiple applications or transferring various file types simultaneously.
2.) Durability and Lifespan
SSDs are generally more reliable than traditional hard drives, but it's crucial to consider the durability of the cheapest options. Examine the TBW (Total Bytes Written) or DWPD (Drive Writes Per Day) rating, which indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime. Be mindful of the warranty period provided by the manufacturer, as it often reflects their confidence in the drive's longevity. A shorter warranty could signal a lower-quality product that might not endure as long as you would like.
3.) Storage Capacity
Determine how much storage you actually need; buying the cheapest SSD with insufficient storage can be a false economy if you need to upgrade soon after. Cheaper SSDs often come with smaller storage capacities, which might not accommodate the operating system, applications, and files you intend to store. It's wise to balance cost with capacity to avoid the expense and hassle of a swift replacement.
4.) Brand and Reviews
While you may be tempted to go for the least expensive option, consider reputable brands that have a history of reliability and customer satisfaction. Research online reviews and ratings from other buyers to gauge their experiences with the product. Avoid non-branded or unfamiliar manufacturers, as their products might not live up to quality standards and can end up costing more in the long run due to potential failures or data loss.
The Cheapest SSDs of our Choice
Our Pick
Kingston 240GB A400 SATA 3 2.5"
Type/Color: Black
Size: 240 GB
Features
- Fast start up, loading and file transfers
- Reliable and durable, better than hard drives
- Multiple capacities for applications or hard drive replacement
In other categories
- Rank 11 of 19 in Fastest SATA SSD
2
Patriot P210 SATA 3 256GB
Type/Color: Black
Size: 256gb
Features
- Capacity of 256GB with Latest SATA 3 Controller
- Built-in end-to-end data path protection
- SmartECC technology for data reliability
- Thermal throttling technology to prevent overheating
- Sequential Performance Read up to 500MB/s, Write up to 400MB/s
- 4K Aligned Random Write: up to 30K IOPs
- 3 Year Warranty
- Operating System Supported: Windows 7/8.0/8.1/10
3
Western Digital 1TB WD Blue SN580 NVMe
Type/Color: Blue
Size: 1TB
Features
- Upgrade to PCIe Gen 4.0 SSDs for faster speeds
- nCache 4.0 technology for quick copying of large files
- Up to 2TB of storage on a slim form-factor
- Low-power storage to maximize battery life
- NVMe for application responsiveness while multitasking
- Rated up to 900TBW with a 5-year warranty
- Actual capacity may be less depending on environment
- Read speeds based on internal testing
- TBW values vary by product capacity
- 5-year warranty or Max Endurance, whichever occurs first
In other categories
- Rank 5 of 20 in Fastest NVMe SSD
- Rank 9 of 19 in Fastest PCIe SSD
- Rank 12 of 20 in Cheapest NVMe SSD
4
WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming
Type/Color: Black
Size: 4TB
Features
- Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for top-level performance.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB for more game storage.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard monitors drive's health and controls RGB style.
- Automatically detects games to turn on Game Mode 2.0.
- Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management features.
- Supports future games with Microsoft's DirectStorage technology.
- Read speed tested internally; performance may vary.
- Actual user capacity may be less depending on environment.
- Requires WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only).
In other categories
- Rank 7 of 20 in Fastest NVMe SSD
5
Lexar 240GB NQ100 SSD 2.5” SATA
Type/Color: Gray
Size: 240GB
Features
- Faster startups and application loads with up to 550MB/s read speeds
- Improved performance and reliability compared to traditional hard drives
- Resistant to shock and vibration with no moving parts
- Three-year limited product support
In other categories
- Rank 3 of 19 in Fastest SATA SSD
6
LEVEN JMS600 mSATA SSD 512GB 3D NAND SATA III 6 Gb/s
Type/Color: MSATA
Size: 512GB
Features
- More efficient: Sequential read speeds up to 560MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 460MB/s.
- More reliable: Solid state design is more durable and reliable than traditional hard drives.
- MTBF of JMS-600 SSD is 1.5 Million Hours for long-lasting quality.
- More choices: Available capacities of 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.
- Warranty: 3 years limited warranty provided by the manufacturer.
- Note: Actual available capacity may be slightly smaller due to different calculations.
7
fanxiang S101 512GB SSD SATA III
Type/Color: Previous Generation
Size: 512GB
Features
- SSD 512GB SATA with fast read and write speeds
- Boots up at least 50% faster than HDDs
- Longer lifespan in writes compared to QLC
- Compatible with various devices and operating systems
- Extensive 3-year warranty for quality assurance
In other categories
- Rank 9 of 19 in Fastest SATA SSD
$ 36.99 *
View
on Amazon
8
TEAMGROUP AX2 512GB 3D NAND TLC
Model: AX2
Type/Color: AX2
Size: 512GB
Features
- Amazon Special edition SSD.
- Manufacturer Warranty: 3-year or TBW (Terabytes Written) limited warranty.
- Free Technical Support and Customer Service on TEAMGROUP's official website.
- The definition and conditions of TBW are based on the JEDEC standard.
- High Efficiency Performance - Uses SATA III 6Gb/s transfer interface.
- Read/write speed up to 540/490 MB/s for efficient data transferring.
- Lower power consumption and quiet operation experience.
- Capacities available in 256GB ~ 2TB for diverse needs.
- Trustworthy and Reliable - With garbage collection, wear-Leveling technology, ECC (Error Correction Code), S.M.A.R.T., and TRIM functions.
- AX2 SSD ensures operational efficiency and monitors drive status.
- Prolongs service life of the SSD.
- 4 Times Faster Than HDD - AX2 solid state drive is 4 times faster than traditional hard drive.
- Speeds up boot time, shutdown time and application response time.
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 19 in Fastest SATA SSD
9
Ediloca EN206 256GB 3D NAND TLC M.2 SSD
Model: EN206
Type/Color: Black
Size: 256GB
Features
- Ultimate performance with high-speed solid-state drive
- Shorten boot time and program execution time
- Boost computer system performance for business people, professionals, and gamers
- High-speed transfer with sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s
- Write speeds up to 460MB/s
- SATA III 6Gb/s interface for fast and stable transfers
- Compact form factor for Ultrabooks, Tablet Computers, and Mini PCs
- Compatible with Windows 7/8/10 and later
- Reliable and stable data transmission and access
- Built-in LDPC error correction for data integrity
- 3-year limited warranty with strict quality control
- Tested extensively before shipping
- Available customer support for any inquiries
$ 25.99 *
View
on Amazon
10
Timetec 256GB SSD NVMe PCIe Gen3x4
Size: 256GB
Features
- Breakthrough Read and Write Speeds
- Sequential Read Speed up to 2,000MB/s
- Write Speed up to 1,600MB/s
- SLC Cache Technology for performance boost
- Longer lifespan with advanced technology
- 1,500,000 hours mean time before failure (MTBF)
- Compatible with various Operating Systems
- Supports desktops and laptops with M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 SSD
- Backwards Compatible with PCIe Gen 2 and Gen 1
- Supports latest NVMe 1.3 protocol
- Support for S.M.A.R.T. technology, TRIM command functions
- Wear-Leveling technology and Power Management Support
- RAID, ECC, LDPC for optimized performance
- Included Contents: M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe3x4 SSD
- Five years limited warranty with free technical support
11
Bliksem SSD 128GB SATA III 6Gb/s
Type/Color: Black 128GB
Size: Black 128GB
Features
- Multiple capacity options: 128gb, 256gb, 512gb...
- Excellent performance: Read/write speeds up to 550MB/s, 450MB/s
- Super compatibility: 2.5in 7mm size, SATA III 6Gb/s interface
- Super durable: More durable than mechanical hard drives
- Capacity and warranty: Decimal vs binary algorithm, 3-year warranty
$ 14.99 *
View
on Amazon
12
Crucial P3 500GB PCIe Gen3 3D NAND NVMe M.2 SSD
Type/Color: Black
Size: 500GB
Features
- NVMe technology with fast sequential reads/writes
- 350K/460K IOPS for random read/write
- Up to 3500MB/s transfer rate
- Suitable for Personal, Gaming, and Business use
- Spacious storage up to 4TB
- 33% better performance than previous generation
- Solid Gen3 performance
- MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for reliability
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 5 in Fastest M.2 SSD
- Rank 1 of 20 in Fastest NVMe SSD
- Rank 2 of 20 in Cheapest NVMe SSD
13
Vansuny 120GB SATA III SSD Internal
Type/Color: SATA 2.5"
Size: 120GB
Features
- Superfast Speed - Optimize SATA 3.0 for 450/330MB read/write.
- Reliable Performance - Top3 flash chips, premium ABS casing.
- Wide compatibility - Fits desktops, PCs, laptops, major OSs.
- Versatile use - Ideal for gaming, design, video editing.
- What you get - 1 x 120GB SSD, User Manual.
$ 15.99 *
View
on Amazon
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Top Picks for Budget-Friendly SSDs
Budget-Conscious Buyer
If you're looking to upgrade your storage without breaking the bank, our selection offers the best deals. Browse through an array of affordable SSDs that don't compromise on performance.
Casual User
Enhance your day-to-day computer use with a reliable SSD that offers faster boot times and quick access to your files. Find the most cost-effective solutions for casual browsing and document storage.
Gaming Enthusiast
Boost your gaming rig with a speedy yet affordable SSD. Experience faster game loads and improved overall performance without spending a fortune.
Tech Savvy Professional
Increase your productivity with an SSD that combines performance with affordability. Perfect for multitasking and handling large files without the need to invest heavily.
Questions You Might Ask
The main types of SSDs are SATA, PCIe/NVMe, and M.2. SATA SSDs are similar in form factor to traditional hard drives and are compatible with most systems. PCIe/NVMe SSDs offer higher performance and connect via a PCIe slot, while M.2 SSDs come in a compact form factor suitable for laptops and compact PCs, and can utilize either SATA or NVMe interfaces.
The form factor of an SSD determines its physical size and connection interface. Older and budget systems may require a 2.5-inch SATA SSD. For compact systems or laptops, an M.2 form factor may be necessary. High-performance desktops can benefit from the NVMe interface, which can come in varying form factors such as M.2 or U.2, depending on motherboard compatibility.
When choosing an SSD, consider your budget and storage needs. A larger capacity SSD can store more data but will be more expensive. A common approach is to use a smaller SSD for your operating system and critical applications to benefit from faster boot and load times, paired with a larger HDD for general storage. The capacity can range from 120GB to several TB.
The type of NAND memory used in SSDs, such as SLC, MLC, TLC, or QLC, impacts performance, durability, and price. SLC (Single-Level Cell) memory is fast and durable but expensive. MLC (Multi-Level Cell) finds a middle ground. TLC (Triple-Level Cell) and QLC (Quad-Level Cell) are more affordable but may have shorter lifespans and slower write speeds.
The read and write speeds of an SSD affect how quickly data can be accessed or written to the drive. Faster read/write speeds result in quicker boot times, application loading, and data transfer. NVMe SSDs typically offer the fastest speeds compared to SATA SSDs. When reviewing an SSD's specifications, look for the sequential read and write speeds measured in MB/s or GB/s.
Currently Active Poll
How to Choose the Best Budget SSD: A Buying Guide
Our Pick: Kingston 240GB A400 SATA 3 2.5"
In the quest for a faster computer, swapping out your old hard drive for a solid-state drive (SSD) is a game-changer. But with so many options on the market, how do you find an SSD that won't break the bank yet still boosts your system's performance? This guide is your trusty companion in navigating the sea of budget SSDs, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck without compromising on quality.
Understanding SSD Technology
Before diving into the purchase, it's essential to understand what makes an SSD a worthy investment. Unlike traditional hard drives, SSDs have no moving parts, which makes them faster, more durable, and less prone to mechanical failure.
The core of SSD technology lies in NAND flash memory, which retains data without power. SSDs use various interfaces such as SATA and NVMe, with NVMe being the newer and faster option. When shopping on a budget, consider whether your system supports NVMe, as some older systems might not.
Capacity is another important factor. While higher capacities are more expensive, a 256GB or 512GB SSD can often strike a comfortable balance between cost and storage space for most users. Remember, an SSD for your operating system and most-used programs can vastly improve your computer's responsiveness.
Performance vs. Cost
Performance is a key differentiator in SSDs, and understanding it is vital. Look at the read and write speeds listed by the manufacturer; these will give you a sense of how fast data can be transferred.
However, the fastest SSDs can be pricey, and for a budget-conscious consumer, it's about finding the sweet spot. Often, an SSD with moderate speeds will provide a noticeable improvement over a traditional hard drive without costing a fortune.
Reliability should not be overlooked. Check for the drive's endurance rating, measured in terabytes written (TBW), and a warranty that gives you peace of mind. A slightly more expensive SSD with a high TBW rating and a longer warranty might save you money in the long run.
Compatibility and Form Factors
Ensure the SSD you're eyeing is compatible with your setup. There are different form factors like 2.5-inch, M.2, and mSATA. The 2.5-inch SSD is common in older laptops and desktops, while M.2 is typical for newer systems.
If using a desktop, you might need a mounting bracket for a 2.5-inch SSD, or to ensure your motherboard has an M.2 slot for that form factor. Double-checking these details can save you from the frustration of buying an SSD you can't use.
Connection interfaces also matter. SATA III interfaces are standard for most 2.5-inch drives, providing decent speeds for everyday use. But if you have a newer computer, you might want to take advantage of NVMe-compatible M.2 slots for much faster performance, though typically at a higher price point.
The Brand and User Reviews
Opting for a known brand can sometimes lead to better reliability and support. However, don't be afraid to consider lesser-known brands that offer competitive pricing and warranties. Ensure you read impartial user reviews to gauge the real-world performance and reliability of the SSDs you're considering.
Many user reviews also mention the support experience with manufacturers, which is crucial if you encounter any issues. A budget SSD with good reviews and a responsive support team could be much more valuable than saving a few dollars on a drive with a reputation for failing.
Lastly, while reviews are helpful, remember that every user's experience is different. Don't be swayed by one-off complaints or over-the-top praise. Focus on consistent trends in reviews to make an informed decision.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
In this section, we'll present a curated collection of resources pertaining to the most affordable SSD options available. The selection has been carefully sorted into four distinct categories for your convenience, encompassing professional reviews, insightful forum threads, engaging Reddit discussions, and informative videos. These resources have been chosen based on their credibility and the value of the information they provide to help guide your purchase decision.
7 days ago — The best of the affordable bunch? The WD Blue SN580 NVMe SSD—and by quite a large margin. At just $50 for a 1TB model, you won't likely find any...
Jan 2, 2023 — Tom's Hardware Verdict. The 2TB Kingston NV2 is a dirt cheap NVMe SSD and not much more. Performance is fairly bad, the drive runs hot, and you...
The result: some really strong Cyber Monday SSD deals. We're now seeing decently fast 2TB SSDs for less than $100 and 4TB models for less than $200. High- ...
forums.tomshardware.com
I need to buy some smaller SSD's and am wondering who makes a decent one at a low price point.
Let's be honest, we're all cheap when it comes to hardware and we like to get as much as possible for our money.
I use an ADATA XPG SX8200 PRO. It's working well so far. It has DRAM and is cheaper than a Samsung 980.
I wouldn't compromise on the drives If you care somewhat about the Data. A few bucks here are good spent.
It is an intel Enterprise SSD 1.6TB. Get 2 of them in a RAID 0 and for $200 you have a drive with outrageous writes per day. They are slow to...
Taking at look at 2 cheap SSDs on Amazon, are they worth the ...
I save some new SSDs on Amazon for some of the lowest prices Ive seen, $27 for a SATA SSD, and $30 for a NVMe drive. I take a look at these ...
