SSD or solid state drive is a form of storage device that stores data on a permanent basis. As a long-term form of storage, it handles large amounts of data. While looking for the best SSD for PC, you can understand your primary workload and features for the right choice. It works along with the processor for running applications and operating systems. When the CPU needs to run a particular application, it goes to the SSD to seek the information. The SSD can transfer the data to RAM that saves it for a short time.
The advantage of SSD lies in its ability to process data at an incredibly faster speed. SSD makes use of flash memory chips for saving the data. It can transfer all the data at once as it does not contain any moving parts like in an HDD. Additionally, this fast speed makes it an ideal choice for saving operating systems, files, images, programs, and applications.
Features that affect performance of SSD for PC
There are different types of SSD that differ in their overall performance. The performance depends on a number of factors such as capacity, speed, data security, reliability, and type of connectivity. Large capacity and fast speed are the primary benefits of opting for SSD. As it does not depend on any mechanical action, it has longer durability for handling larger volume.
In order to look at the best SSD for PC in 2021, you must consider factors such as connectivity and cost. Connectivity of SSD and motherboard can be achieved by a number of ways such as using a SATA cable or through newer options such as PCIe for express speed. You can also look at the best mid-range or budget SSD depending on the cost.
Let us look at different options of Best SSD for PC in 2021:
1. Best SSD with faster speed- Samsung 970 Evo Plus
When you see the specifications of the Samsung 970 Evo Plus, you will realize that it delivers exceptional fast performance at an excellent cost. There are different choices of capacities ranging from 250GB to up to 2TB. It is one of the fastest drives in the market at a valuable price, making it a clear favorite among users. Also, it has a PCIe slot for connectivity, ensuring fast-speed transfer without the need for any wires or cords. This is helpful for excellent productivity with optimum performance capability.
2. Best NVMe SSD – Samsung 970 Pro
With express connectivity and incredibly faster speed, the Samsung 970 Pro is one of the best NVMe SSDs in the market for a good price. But, if speed is your primary concern, you can go for the Samsung 970 Pro with write speeds of up to 2,700 MB/s. You can take advantage of up to 1TB capacity that can handle large volumes of data.
3. Best PCIe SSD- SK Hynix Gold P31
For incredible fast speed on the PCIe 3.0 interface, you can choose the SK Hynix Gold P31. It delivers good results even when compared against the PCIe 4.0 drives. But as it does not support PCIe 4.0, it may limit the connectivity.
4. Best mid-range SSD for PC- Samsung 980
The Samsung 980 is an excellent choice if you are looking for PCIe 3.0 slot and NVMe connectivity. Also, it is cost effective as compared to the Samsung 980 Pro and acts as a highly capable drive with storage capacity of up to 1TB. You can take advantage of read and write speeds of up to 3500MB/s, achieving a lot of purpose for quite less cost.
5. Best M.2 SSD- Silicon Power US70
M.2 SSDs are the smallest and fastest SSDs that can make it easy for higher workloads. Supported by PCIe 4.0, it is an ideal choice at an excellent price. It has a capacity of up to 8TB. Though it faces tough competition with other SSDs with similar speed and capacity, it is perfect when you are seeking a PCIe 4 connectivity.
6. Best SATA 3 SSD for PC- Samsung 680 Pro
SATA connectivity can lower the speed of data transfer. When you need a serious fast-paced drive with speeds of up to 3500MB/s, you may not find it in SATA SSDs. It can limit your performance to a great level. But, if you require an SSD with large capacity of up to 4TB storage, you can go with the Samsung 680 Pro. You can take advantage of data security and reliability by picking the SATA option. This is useful while dealing with sensitive data in a workplace.
7. Best U.2 SSD- Intel 750 series
This futuristic option is a perfect choice, offering a large capacity of up to 1.2TB. It uses the PCIe x4 slot and can transfer large volumes of data. It also offers a cable connectivity option in case you have to keep the drive away from your workplace.
8. Best Budget SSD- Samsung 860 Evo
Enjoy fast speed at an affordable rate with the Samsung 860 Evo SSD. You would find improved write/read speeds and many form factors. The connectivity option is through SATA 3 cable. Though this may prove to be a deterrent, it is a good entry-level choice. It can also act as a good starting point when you are new to the use of SSDs. After understanding your workload and requirement for upgrades, you can opt for one with PCIe support or the M.2 type of SSD for PC.
9. Best External SSD- Samsung X5 Portable
If you are looking for an external NVMe SSD for PC, you can pick the Samsung X5 Portable. As it can save huge workloads, it is ideal for a creative professional who needs a large capacity for huge files and intensive applications. Additionally, the Samsung X5 Portable makes use of Thunderbolt 3 for fast speed and an AES 256-bit encryption for a secured transfer.
10. Best SSD boot drive- Intel 760p Series
The Intel 760p Series is priced at an affordable level if you are seeking a NVMe SSD. Also, it can deliver read speed of up to 3,056 MB/s. Though NVMe SSDs are costly as compared to the other types, the Intel 760p series may change the scenario with newer additions and improvements going forward.
11. Best Gaming SSD- Corsair MP400
Strong value, excellent speed, and large space are the right words to describe the Corsair MP400. Due to these features, it ranks as one of the best SSDs for gaming with a PCIe NVMe type.
By matching your purpose with the budget, you can choose the right SSD. In recent years, the rates of SSDs have been to a great extent. There are many options of SSDs and hence it is easy to find the best SSD for PC in 2021. If you would like to upgrade to one of these best choices, you can get rid of the used HDD or SSD at BuySellRam. We are happy to offer an excellent price for all types of used and new storage.