Fastest NVMe SSD: In-Depth Speed Benchmark Analysis for 2023
Note: We have researched 13 NVMe SSDs for you.
Last updated on 19.05.24 um 11:19
With the ever-growing demand for rapid data transfer and lightning-quick load times, the technology of storage solutions is constantly evolving. NVMe SSDs stand at the pinnacle of performance, offering unparalleled read and write speeds that can take any computing experience to the next level.
In this competitive landscape, manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of what's possible, leveraging the latest in flash memory technology to deliver drives that stand out from the rest. The search for the ultimate speed has resulted in a range of products that promise to cater to the needs of gamers, content creators, and professionals alike.
In this competitive landscape, manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of what's possible, leveraging the latest in flash memory technology to deliver drives that stand out from the rest. The search for the ultimate speed has resulted in a range of products that promise to cater to the needs of gamers, content creators, and professionals alike.
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.
Pictured: SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD
What to Look for in Fastest NVMe SSDs
Important criteria
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High sequential read/write speeds
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High random read/write IOPS
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Low latency
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High TBW (Total Bytes Written) rating
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Good warranty and reliability
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PCIe interface, preferably the latest generation
1.) Performance
When purchasing the fastest NVMe SSD, the foremost aspect to consider is its performance, particularly the read and write speeds. NVMe SSDs are known for their high throughput and low latency, so look for drives that offer the highest possible speeds within your budget. Performance can vary considerably between different models and manufacturers, thus studying benchmarks and user reviews is crucial. Additionally, pay attention to the drive's endurance rating, which will give you an indication of how long it can operate reliably under intensive workloads.
2.) Compatibility
Ensure that your system supports NVMe SSDs before making a purchase. Check your motherboard's specifications to verify whether it has an M.2 slot and if it supports the NVMe protocol, as some M.2 slots might only support SATA SSDs. Also, consider the physical size of the SSD, as they come in various lengths, like 2280 or 22110, which may or may not fit in your device. If you're upgrading a laptop, space considerations and compatibility are especially important.
Pictured: SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD
3.) Capacity
Deciding on the capacity of your NVMe SSD is a balance between your storage needs and your budget. Larger drives not only offer more space but can also come with improved performance due to greater parallelism in the drive's NAND configuration. Keep in mind that SSDs can start to slow down as they get full, so it's wise to choose a capacity slightly larger than what you think you'll need. For most users, a 1 TB NVMe SSD is a good starting point, providing ample storage while allowing for high performance.
4.) Thermal Management
High-performance NVMe SSDs generate a significant amount of heat, which can lead to thermal throttling and impact performance. Check if the SSD includes built-in thermal management solutions like heatsinks or if your setup facilitates good airflow. In some cases, you may need to add additional cooling solutions to maintain optimal performance. For gaming or high-performance workstations, adequate cooling is an essential consideration to prevent performance degradation over time.
The Fastest NVMe SSDs of our Choice
Our Pick
SAMSUNG 980 PRO SSD 2TB PCIe
Size: 2TB
Properties
- Adobe membership: 2-month membership of Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan
- Internal Storage: Samsung V-NAND 3-bit MLC
- Next-level SSD performance: Samsung 980 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
- 2x data transfer rate of PCIe 3.0, compatible with PCIe 3.0
- Maximum speed: Read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s
- Elpsis controller and PCIe 4.0 interface for superior speed
- High-performance bandwidth and throughput for heavy-duty applications
- Fast loading games for more play time
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor for easy installation
- Optimized power efficiency for high-performance computing systems
- Reliable thermal control with nickel coating and heat spreader
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 6 in Fastest M.2 SSD
- Rank 2 of 5 in Fastest SSD for PC
- Rank 3 of 18 in Fastest SSD
- Rank 14 of 16 in Fastest PCIe SSD
2
Samsung 990 EVO SSD 1TB
Type/Color: Black
Size: 1 TB
Properties
- Read/write speeds of 5,000/4,200 MB/s.
- Power efficiency saves power with up to 70% improved performance per watt over 970 EVO Plus.
- Smart thermal control prevents overheating for continuous high performance.
- PCIe 5.0 interface for higher data processing and performance.
- Always updated via Magician Software for optimal performance.
In other categories
- Rank 4 of 18 in Fastest SSD
- Rank 5 of 16 in Fastest PCIe SSD
- Rank 15 of 19 in Cheapest NVMe SSD
Price Pick
Western Digital 1TB WD Blue SN580 NVMe
Type/Color: Blue
Size: 1TB
Properties
- 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 2 of 18 in Fastest SSD
- Rank 2 of 19 in Cheapest NVMe SSD
- Rank 7 of 19 in Cheapest SSD
- Rank 9 of 16 in Fastest PCIe SSD
4
SK hynix Gold P31 1TB PCIe NVMe Gen3 M.2 2280 Internal SSD
Type/Color: Gold
Size: 1TB
Properties
- Top-tier performance - Read speeds up to 3,500 MB/s and write speeds up to 3,200 MB/s
- Pioneering thermal efficiency - Runs cool while primed for performance
- 5-year warranty, superior reliability, and stability - Tested through 1,000 hours of HTOL with MTBF up to 1.5 million hours
- Easy installation across multiple devices, pairing with SK hynix edition Macrium cloning software
- Gen3 PCIe NVMe SSD with M.2 2280 form factor
- NOT compatible with SONY PS5, please contact for compatibility
- Does not include screws, cables, or any other accessories
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 16 in Fastest PCIe SSD
- Rank 3 of 6 in Fastest M.2 SSD
- Rank 4 of 5 in Fastest SSD for PC
5
acer Predator GM7000 2TB M.2 SSD
Type/Color: Black
Size: 2TB
Properties
- PCIe Gen4 Standard: Sequential read/write speeds up to 7400/6700 MB/s.
- Efficient Heat Dissipation: Customized heat spreader for better temperature control.
- Less Energy: Integrated PMU power management unit for energy savings.
- Free Acronis Clone Software: Transfer, back-up, or clone data.
- Warranty: 5-year limited warranty and up to 1300TBW.
In other categories
7
ASUS TUF Gaming A1 External M.2
Type/Color: TUF Gaming A1
In other categories
- Rank 13 of 15 in Fastest SSD Enclosure
8
WD_BLACK Western Digital 2TB SN770 NVMe
Type/Color: Black
Size: 2TB
Properties
- Fast load times with speeds up to 5,150MB/s
- PCIe Gen4 interface for in-game responsiveness
- Large capacities up to 2TB for games and updates
- Supports Microsoft's DirectStorage technology
- Optimize performance and monitor health with WD_BLACK Dashboard
- Backwards-compatible with PCIe Gen3
- Sequential Read Performance: 5150MB/s
- Sequential Write Performance: 4850MB/s
In other categories
- Rank 3 of 16 in Fastest PCIe SSD
- Rank 5 of 6 in Fastest 2TB SSD
- Rank 7 of 19 in Cheapest NVMe SSD
- Rank 8 of 18 in Fastest SSD
9
INLAND TN470 SSD 2TB Gen4 NVMe
Model: TN470
Type/Color: Black
Size: 2TB
10
Crucial P3 Plus 1TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2 SSD
Type/Color: Black
Size: 1TB
Properties
- NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology with up to 5000MB/s sequential reads, random read/write 650K/800K IOPS
- Spacious storage up to 4TB
- Performs up to 43% faster than Gen3 NVMe SSDs
- Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours
- Backward compatibility with Gen3
- We can be contacted here: Toll-free for US & Canada: 800-336-8915 Phone: 1-208-363-5790 Email: crucial.support@micron.com Hours (MST): Monday - Friday: 7am - 6pm
In other categories
- Rank 10 of 16 in Fastest PCIe SSD
11
SABRENT NVMe SSD M.2 1TB Gen 5 13,000MB/s Lesen
Size: 1TB
Properties
- Fast SSD: Upgrade storage performance with Sabrent Rocket 5
- Speed: Transfer data at up to 14 GB/s
- DirectStorage firmware for top performance
- Business & Pleasure: Boost productivity with fast speeds
- Stylish design with optional custom heatsink
- Compatibility: Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.
12
Crucial P3 1TB PCIe Gen3 3D NAND NVMe M.2 SSD
Type/Color: Black
Size: 1TB
Properties
- NVMe technology with fast sequential reads
- Spacious storage up to 4TB
- Performs 33% better than previous generation
- Good Gen3 performance
- Longevity and reliability with MTTF of 1.5M hours
In other categories
- Rank 2 of 6 in Fastest M.2 SSD
- Rank 12 of 16 in Fastest PCIe SSD
13
SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD
Type/Color: Black
Size: 2TB
Properties
- Near max performance with PCIe 4.0
- Smart heat control for power efficiency
- 40% faster random read/write speeds
- Up to 1400K/1550K IOPS and 7450/6900 MB/s
- 50% improved performance per watt
- Thermal control and no performance drops
- Fits PlayStation 5, desktops, laptops
- 55% improvement in random performance
- RGB LED lights for style and function
- Advanced optimization tools with Samsung Magician
- World's #1 flash memory brand since 2003
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 5 in Fastest SSD for PC
- Rank 4 of 6 in Fastest 2TB SSD
- Rank 4 of 16 in Fastest PCIe SSD
- Rank 4 of 6 in Fastest M.2 SSD
* 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: Lightning-Fast NVMe SSDs for Every User
Tech Enthusiasts
For those who crave cutting-edge speed and performance, our selection caters to the tech-savvy. Delve into the world of rapid data transfer and quick load times with our recommended NVMe SSDs.
Professional Editors
Editors requiring swift file handling will benefit from our curated NVMe SSDs. Experience seamless video editing and content creation with drives that can keep up with your workflow.
Gamers
Gamers looking for minimal load times and maximum performance can find the top SSD options here. Immerse yourself in enhanced gaming with drives designed for speed.
Budget-Conscious Buyers
Discover NVMe SSDs that balance cost and speed, perfect for buyers seeking value without compromising on performance. Upgrade your storage without breaking the bank.
Questions You Might Ask
NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs are a type of solid-state drive specifically designed to leverage the high speeds of PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interface, offering faster data transfer rates compared to traditional SATA SSDs which use the older SATA interface. NVMe drives are ideal for tasks requiring high data throughput, such as video editing or gaming.
Important factors include storage capacity, read/write speeds, endurance (TBW - terabytes written), form factor (e.g., M.2, U.2, or add-in card), interface version (PCIe Gen 3 x4, Gen 4 x4, etc.), brand reliability, warranty length, and price. Higher performing drives typically offer better speeds and endurance but come at a higher cost.
Yes, NVMe SSDs commonly come in the M.2 form factor which is compact and plugs directly into the motherboard. They also come in standard card sizes like AIC (Add-In Card) that fits into a PCIe slot, and U.2 form factor which is less common and typically used in enterprise environments. M.2 drives also vary in length; the most common are 2280 (22mm wide, 80mm long) and 22110.
While not always necessary, a heatsink can help maintain lower operating temperatures for an NVMe SSD, potentially enhancing performance and longevity, especially during heavy or prolonged use. Some high-performance NVMe SSDs come with a built-in heatsink or are designed to integrate with motherboard heatsink solutions.
Not all systems support NVMe SSDs as they require a motherboard with an available M.2 or U.2 PCIe NVMe-compatible slot, or an available PCIe slot for an AIC. Additionally, the system’s BIOS needs to support NVMe. Laptops are more restrictive than desktops since they often have fewer or no expansion options.
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How to Choose the Fastest NVMe SSD: Your Buying Guide
Our Pick: SAMSUNG 980 PRO SSD 2TB PCIe
In the hunt for blistering computer performance, choosing the right NVMe SSD can be akin to fitting your system with a pair of turbocharged wings. This guide is your co-pilot in navigating the landscape of state-of-the-art storage solutions. We'll dissect the essentials of NVMe technology and highlight what you need to focus on to pick the fastest SSD for your needs, ensuring your rig flies at the speed of thought.
Understanding NVMe SSD Technology
First things first, NVMe stands for Non-Volatile Memory Express, a communication protocol specifically designed for SSDs to capitalize on the strengths of flash-based storage. It allows drives to connect directly to your system's PCIe interface, skipping over slower interfaces like SATA, and as a result, offers jaw-dropping speed improvements. Deciphering this tech talk translates to lightning-fast read and write speeds that can dramatically boost system responsiveness.
NVMe drives come in a few common form factors, with M.2 being the most widespread. It's crucial to ensure your motherboard has the appropriate slots for these drives, or you might need an adapter. Remember, while all NVMe drives are SSDs, not all SSDs are NVMe, so check the specifications carefully when scouting for options.
The performance ceiling of NVMe SSDs is dictated by the bandwidth of PCIe lanes they utilize. More lanes often mean better performance. Latest-gen drives leverage PCIe 4.0 and even 5.0, offering staggering speeds you didn't think were possible. Be aware, though, that to use a newer-gen NVMe SSD to its full potential, your computer must support the corresponding PCIe generation.
Speed Metrics: Decoding Read/Write Speeds
The heralds of SSD dominance are the advertised read and write speeds. They are quoted in MB/s (megabytes per second) or GB/s (gigabytes per second), depicting how quickly data can be read from or written to the drive. For the consumer chasing the fastest NVMe SSD, these figures are prime real estate, with top-tier models boasting sequential read speeds north of 7,000 MB/s.
However, don't get caught up in the speed battle without considering the difference between sequential and random speeds. Sequential speeds shine in tasks involving large files, while random speeds are crucial for general system snappiness, as operating systems and applications often involve numerous small file transactions.
Real-world performance also depends on the drive's IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second) capability—another important metric that quantifies how well the drive handles multiple file requests. This is particularly pivotal for users running demanding applications, like high-end gaming, large database operations, and content creation workloads that require high transaction rates.
Capacity and Longevity: Finding the Sweet Spot
While speed often steals the spotlight, ignoring capacity and endurance can lead to buyer's remorse. NVMe SSDs typically range from 250GB to several terabytes. However, it's not just about storing more data; larger drives usually sport better performance and longevity. They come with more NAND flash chips that can be accessed simultaneously, as well as a technique called over-provisioning which extends drive life.
Speaking of longevity, bear in mind the SSD's TBW (Terabytes Written) rating—a measure of how many terabytes can be written over the drive’s lifespan. High-performance drives not only provide speed but also can handle a higher volume of data written over time. This is vital for intensive use cases where the drive will be written to and erased frequently.
Don't forget, larger capacities and higher endurance specs usually equate to a heftier price tag. Balance your budget with your need for speed, capacity, and longevity. Opting for a mid-range capacity with excellent speed and endurance can sometimes offer the best value for money.
Compatibility and Future Proofing
Investing in the fastest NVMe SSD should not be a decision made in isolation from the rest of your hardware. Compatibility is key. The motherboard should not only have an M.2 slot but also one that supports the exact PCIe generation of your SSD for optimal performance. Checking for BIOS updates prior to installation is also a good idea as they can provide crucial support for newer SSD technologies.
Another aspect to consider is the roadmap of your tech journey. Are you planning to upgrade your system soon or build a new one? Going for a current-gen NVMe SSD can be a future-proof choice if upgrades are on the horizon. However, if you're content with your current setup, there's no need to spring for the most cutting-edge drive—unless you're committed to pushing your hardware to the limit.
Finally, keep an eye out for software support like NVMe drivers and SSD toolboxes which offer performance optimization and monitoring capabilities. These can sometimes be the differentiator between squeezing every bit of speed out of your SSD or merely operating at standard rates.
Price vs. Performance: Striking the Right Balance
Price is an inescapable factor in the search for the fastest NVMe SSD. It's easy to be tempted by the premium options boasting stratospheric speeds, but consider first whether those speeds will make a tangible difference to your computing experience. Sometimes, the performance gains above a certain threshold can be imperceptible, especially for general computing tasks.
Setting a budget before diving into product comparisons can save you from the all-too-familiar sales siren song of 'just a few dollars more for X times the speed.' Do your research on benchmark tests and user reviews. They can provide insight into how these drives hold up under real-world conditions and whether the extra cost is justified.
Lastly, keep an eye on flash sales, holiday deals, and local discounts. The SSD market is competitive, and with regular promotions, a bit of patient sleuthing can land you a top-tier NVMe SSD at a more palatable price. Combine smart shopping with informed choices, and you'll strike the right balance between price and breakneck NVMe performance.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
To assist you in finding the most reliable and fastest NVMe SSDs, we've sourced and curated a collection of top-rated resources. Our curation is organized into four distinct categories for ease of navigation: professional reviews, expert forum discussions, insightful Reddit threads, and informative videos. Each category is purposefully chosen to offer a well-rounded perspective on the best NVMe SSD options available.
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Gigabyte's Aorus Gen5 10000 PCIe 5.0 SSD offers easily the fastest sustained transfer rates of any drive we've tested.
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