Switching to a solid-state drive (SSD) is a great way to upgrade your PC. SSDs offer faster boot times, improved program and game responsiveness, and an overall faster computing experience. However, not all SSDs are created equal. Some SSDs offer top-notch performance at a higher price point, while others provide solid performance without breaking the bank.
There are different form factors for SSDs, including the traditional 2.5-inch SATA drives and the smaller NVMe “gumstick” SSDs that fit into M.2 slots on modern motherboards. Additionally, there are PCIe 4.0 and 5.0 SSDs that offer even faster speeds for compatible PCs. Choosing the right SSD for your needs can be a bit more complicated than before.
PCWorld, with decades of experience in testing PC hardware, provides expert reviews to help you make the right choice. Only the best SSDs make it to their list, ensuring that you get reliable and high-performing storage solutions. If you’re looking for an external drive, PCWorld also offers a guide to the best options available.
In the latest update, Sabrent’s Rocket Nano 2242 is recommended for Lenovo Legion Go or Thinkpad upgrades, while Corsair’s MP700 Pro SE is highlighted for its PCIe 5.0 performance potential. The article also features detailed reviews of the top SSDs in different categories, such as the Samsung 870 EVO for best SATA SSD, Crucial BX500 for best budget SATA SSD, Crucial P3 for best PCIe 3.0 SSD, WD Blue SN580 for best budget PCIe 4.0 SSD, Solidigm P44 Pro for best PCIe 4.0 SSD, Teamgroup Z540 for best PCIe 5.0 SSD, WD Black SN770M for best SSD for Steam Deck, Seagate Game Drive SSD for best SSD for PS5, Crucial X9 Pro for best external SSD, and Adata Elite SE880 for most portable SSD.
Additional information on NVMe SSD setup and what to look for in an SSD is provided to help readers understand the technology better. Factors such as capacity, price, warranty, and connection type (SATA, PCIe, NVMe, M.2) are crucial when selecting an SSD. The article also compares SSDs to traditional hard drives, emphasizing the significant speed difference and recommending SSD upgrades for improved performance.
PCWorld’s testing methodology is outlined to provide transparency and ensure that readers can trust the reviews. Performance tests are conducted on different systems to evaluate speed, capacity, and overall reliability of the SSDs. Detailed insights into each SSD category and recommendations for specific use cases are included to assist readers in making informed decisions when purchasing an SSD.
