When it comes to buying or upgrading a gaming setup, it needs to be equipped with the best hardware components. It ensures smooth gaming and makes the system compatible with the new generation of games. Various components are given special attention to increase the performance of a gaming setup. An SSD is one such crucial hardware component for gaming.
Solid-state drives (SSDs) are storage devices that store, load, and offer the loading of stored files. The SATA SSDs are the most popular storage devices due to their high capacities, better performance, and lower price tag. Before selecting a SATA SSD for your system, there are certain factors that need attention.
- Drive Type: SATA SSDs are available in different types. Each type differs based on various factors like size, capacity, ease of installation, etc. These types are specially developed to churn out the expected performance for a certain device. The most popular types of SATA SSDs are the M.2 and 2.5-inch drives.
- Read/ write Speed: Apart from storing data, the SATA SSDs are also used to access the data files. These drives have two different speeds related to this “access” function. The read speed tells us how quickly a drive can access or read a file. The write speed gives us an idea about a drive’s data-modifying and copying speed. For the SATA interface III SSDs, this speed lies between 400 to 600 mb/s.
- Storage capacity: The most important function of a SATA SSD is to store all the data safely for future usage. More storage capacity helps in storing large data files. The SATA SSDs are available in different capacities, based on their type. The M.2 drives have a maximum storage capacity of 2 GB, while the 2.5-inch drives offer a storage capacity range between 128 GB to 4 TB.
With the help of these factors, you can select a SATA SSD that qualifies for your requirement. There are numerous SATA SSDs available to choose from in the market for computer hardware components. To avoid any confusion, this article has filtered out the best SATA SSDs for gaming. We have also included a “Buying Guide” to help you focus on the important parameters of an SSD while buying it.
Best SATA SSD For Gaming Chart
Best SATA SSD For Gaming Reviews
1. Western Digital SATA SSD
Our first product comes from an innovative brand, Western Digital. It has developed a range of high-quality products by focusing on the consumers’ needs. With the help of technology, these products offer effective solutions for gaming enthusiasts.
The Western Digital WDS100T3B0B Blue SA510 SATA SSD has a 3D NAND configuration. This SSD runs on the SATA III interface, allowing it to transmit data at a speed of 6 Gb/s. It has a maximum read speed of 560 MB/s and a write speed of 530 MB/s. This ensures a faster transfer of game data and, thereby a quicker loading of the game.
To store larger games or software, this SSD offers a storage capacity of 1 TB. The M.2 2280 form factor makes it compatible with gaming systems where space is limited. With a 1.7M hrs MTTF (mean time to failure) and 500 TBW (terabytes written), this SSD makes sure to last long. It can be internally installed with the motherboard.
Best Features:
- An 3D NAND M.2 SATA SSD
- SATA interface III with 6 Gb/s data transmission speed
- Read and write speeds of 560 MB/s and 530 MB/s
- A storage capacity of 1 TB
- 7M hrs MTFF and 500 TBW
Pros:
- It offers better performance even after being a generation old
- One of the most durable SSDs available
- The M.2 form factor makes it compatible with ultra-thin gaming laptops or notebooks
Cons:
- Being a generation older, it still carries an expensive price tag
2. PNY CS900 SATA SSD
PNY is one of the leading global manufacturers of business-grade electronic products. With an experience of 3 decades, it has managed to develop a range of performance-oriented components.
The PNY CS900 M280CS900-1TB-RB SATA SSD can handle large data files to offer a faster boot time. The reason behind this performance is a read and write speed of 535 MB/s and 515 MB/s respectively. The SATA interface offers faster data handling compared to HDDs. It easily transmits data files with a maximum speed of 6 Gb/s.
It comes with a storage capacity of 1 TB, to make sure you won’t run out of storage space. This unit is also available in different storage capacities, making upgrading gaming systems easy. The M.2 form factor suits it for internal installations on thin notebooks or gaming laptops.
Best Features:
- A SATA M.2 SSD
- Read and write speeds of 535 MB/s and 515 MB/s
- The maximum storage capacity of 1 TB
- SATA III interface with a maximum data transfer speed of 6 Gb/s
Pros:
- It is compatible with thin notebooks and laptops
- It offers better data handling of large files
- This drive offers over 50% faster boot-up, compared to the regular HDDs
Cons:
- It needs a dedicated M.2 slot for installation on gaming PCs
3. Timetec SATA SSD
Timetec is one of the leading manufacturers of memory products. By adhering to industrial standards, it maintains good quality and reliability in its products. With a good after-sales service, it makes sure to swerve consumers and compete with the other brands.
The Timetec SATA SSD has been tuned for performance thanks to the 3D NAND architecture. The SSD is connected to the latest SATA III interface which delivers a data transmission speed of 6 Gb/s. Paired with this, a read/write speed of 550 MB/s and 490 MB/s further improves the gaming session. With a storage capacity of 2 TB, this drive offers enough space to store the games and their data files.
To ensure uninterrupted gaming for years, this drive offers 1,500,000 hrs of mean time before failure (MTBF) and 650 TB Written (Terabyte Written). It is compatible with operating systems like Windows 7 to Windows 11 and Linux. Functions like TRIM, garbage collection, etc. allow efficient management of data. A 3-year warranty further guarantees reliability from this SSD.
Best Features:
- A SATA M.2 SSD with 3D NAND architecture
- SATA III interface with a maximum data transfer speed of 6 Gb/s
- The read/write speed of 550 MB/s and 490 MB/s
- A maximum storage capacity of 2 TB
- Comes with 1,500,000 hrs of mean time before failure and assured 650 terabytes written
- Compatible with Windows 7 to 11 and Linux OS
- Supports commands like TRIM, wear leveling, etc
Pros:
- It is backward compatible with SATA interface II and I
- It comes with a 3-year warranty and free technical support
- One of the most reliable drives on the list
Cons:
- The connection cables need for this drive needs to be bought separately
4. TEAMGROUP SATA SSD
TEAMGROUP has its presence over the world thanks to its memory products. With innovative R&D and manufacturing, it offers a range of high-quality products. These products suit modern consumers and gaming enthusiasts.
The TEAMGROUP MS30 SATA SSD offers an optimum data transfer speed as it uses the SATA III interface. With a rate of 6 Gb/s, all the game data is transferred quickly to ensure lag-free gaming. The read/write speed of 530 MB/s and 480 MB/s further makes sure that the data is quickly accessed, modified, and copied. It has 3D NAND TLC (triple layered cells flash), which helps in retaining data efficiently even in the absence of power.
To accommodate modern games or software, this SSD comes with a 2 TB storage capacity. It uses Intel SRT to manage the data efficiently, allowing better boot speed. Functions like TRIM, wear leveling, etc. keep the SSD efficient for a long period of time. With a 3-year warranty, you no longer have to worry about repairs and damages.
Best Features:
- A SATA M.2 SSD with 3D NAND TLC architecture
- Read and write speeds of 530 MB/s and 480 MB/s respectively
- SATA interface III with 6 Gb/s data transmission speed
- The maximum storage capacity of 2 TB
- Features Intel SRT
- Comes equipped with functions like TRIM, power saving, wear leveling, etc
Pros:
- It offers accent performance with low-consumption of power
- Storing and handling large data files is possible
- It comes with a 3-years warranty
Cons:
- It has a lower write speed compared to the other options on the list
5. Western Digital SA510 SATA SSD
Another product from Western Digital has made it to the list. This product is developed for gaming desktops and laptops. With a different form factor, this product offers similar performance as compared to the previously mentioned product from Western Digital.
The Western Digital WDS100T3B0A Blue SA510 SATA SSD is a larger version of the Western Digital WDS100T2B0B SSD. This drive has a form factor of 2.5 inches, making it suitable for gaming desktops and laptops. With the SATA III interface, this drive easily delivers a data transfer speed of 6 Gb/s.
To further improve the data handling process, it offers read/write speeds of 560 MB/s and 520 MB/s. A storage capacity of 1 TB helps in keeping your favorite games and software in one place. This SSD is designed in a way to support internal installations.
Best Features:
- A SATA 2.5 SSD
- SATA interface III with a data transmission speed of 6 Gb/s
- Read/write speed of 560 MB/s and 520 MB/s
- A storage capacity of 1 TB
- Supports internal installation
- Suitable for gaming desktops and laptops
Pros:
- It comfortably fits a wider range of gaming desktops and laptops
- It is one of the new-generation SSDs
- It can handle large-size files efficiently
Cons:
- Not compatible with thin gaming systems with space restrictions
6. SanDisk SATA SSD
SanDisk is a synonymous name when it comes to flash memory products. From memory cards to USB drives, it offers a variety of products. Each product shows unmatched quality along with good performance.
The SanDisk Ultra SDSSDH3-2T00-G25 SATA SSD is tuned to boost the gaming setup. This unit offers read/write speeds of 560 MB/s and 530 MB/s, resulting in an accelerated performance. The nCache 2.0 technology prioritizes writing processes to optimize data transfer. The SATA III interface makes sure that game data is transferred quickly with a speed of 6 Gb/s. The 2.5-inch form factor makes it compatible with gaming desktops and laptops.
With a storage capacity of 2 TB, all types of games and software can be stored in this drive. Since it features 3D NAND, the drive uses power more efficiently with zero compromises over performance. To assure durability, this drive promises 500 TBW in its lifetime. Adding more safety to the drive, it comes with a warranty of 5 years.
Best Features:
- A SATA 2.5 SSD with 3D NAND architecture
- Read/write speed of 560 MB/s and 530 MB/s supported with nCache technology
- SATA interface III with a data transfer speed of 6 Gb/s
- A maximum storage capacity of 2 TB
- Guaranteed durability with 500 TBW (terabytes written)
Pros:
- It offers better durability and reliability
- It is one of the SSDs with the best read/write speeds
- It comes with a 5-year warranty
Cons:
- It is one of the most expensive SSDs on the list
7. PNY 3D NAND SATA SSD
We have another product from PNY on the list. This product is an alternative to the previously mentioned product from the same brand.
The PNY CS900 SSD7CS900-2TB-RB SATA SSD is a larger version of the PNY M280CS900-1TB-RB SSD. With a form factor of 2.5 inches, it is designed specifically for gaming desktops and laptops. This SSD offers exceptional performance, thanks to the read and write speeds of 550 MB/s and 530 MB/s. With the help of the SATA III interface, a data transfer speed of 6 Gb/s is achieved.
A storage capacity of 2 TB helps in storing large games, software, or files for future use. This drive offers 50% faster loading of games compared to HDDs. Even with this performance, the 3D NAND architecture ensures a low power consumption.
Best Features:
- A SATA 2.5 SSD with 3D NAND architecture
- Read /write speed of 550 MB/s and 530 MB/s
- SATA III interface with a data transfer speed of 6 Gb/s
- A storage capacity of 2 TB
Pros:
- It offers better performance with efficient consumption of power
- It offers a wide range of storage capacity options, from 120 GB to 4 TB
- This drive is compatible with gaming desktops and laptops
Cons:
- It does not support mounting for applications with space restrictions
8. SAMSUNG 870 SATA SSD
SAMSUNG has been a leader in the electronic market since its inception. It has a wide range of computer hardware components. The products are known for their high quality and reliability, and hence garnered consumer’s attention.
The SAMSUNG 870 EVO MZ-77E1T0B/AM SATA SSD is known for its reliability. This unit offers excellent performance thanks to the read/write speed of 560 MB/s and 530 MB/s. With the help of a 6 Gb/s data transfer speed, the SATA III interface processes larger files like 8k video. To store the large files after processing, the drive offers 1 TB storage space.
With a form factor of 2.5 inches, this SSD fits most gaming desktops and laptops. It assures 600 TBW to make sure the drive lasts longer. The user gets peace of mind thanks to a 5-year warranty on this SSD. SAMSUNG also provides the Magician 6 software to monitor the drive’s health and status.
Best Features:
- A SATA 2.5 SSD
- Read/write speed of 560 MB/s and 530 MB/s
- SATA III interface with a data transmission speed of 6 Gb/s
- The storage capacity of 1 TB
- Assured 600 TBW (terabytes written)
- Equipped with SAMSUNG’s Magician 6 software to monitor various parameters
Pros:
- This SSD is suitable for heavy data files like the 8k videos
- It is one of the SSDs with the best read/write speeds
- It comes with a 5-year warranty
Cons:
- It is slower compared to the NVMe SSDs
9. TEAMGROUP 3D NAND SATA SSD
We have another product from TEAMGROUP on the list. This product is designed for gaming laptops and desktops. Even with a different size from its sibling, this product offers similar performance.
The TEAMGROUP AX2 SATA SSD is a budget-oriented unit with excellent performance. This SSD can transfer data at a speed of 6 GB/s thanks to the SATA III interface. To handle the modification of data, it offers read/write speeds of 540 MB/s and 490 MB/s. Due to the 3D NAND TLC, this SSD shows efficient power consumption. The 2.5-inch form factor makes it compatible with gaming desktops, PlayStation, Xbox, and other platforms.
With a storage capacity of 1 TB, the user gets enough space for storing games, software, or personal files. Commands like TRIM, wear-leveling, garbage collection, etc. help maintain the health of SSD. Compared to the HDDs, this drive delivers data 4 times faster to ensure quick loading of files and reduced boot time.
Best Features:
- A SATA 2.5 SSD with 3D NAND TLC architecture
- Read/write speed of 540 MB/s and 490 MB/s respectively
- SATA interface with a data transmission speed of 6Gb/s
- Comes with a storage capacity of 1 TB
- Supports commands like TRIM, wear-leveling, garbage collection, etc
- Compatible with gaming desktops, PlayStation, Xbox, and other platforms
Pros:
- Efficient handling of data with features that promote the health of the drive
- It offers excellent performance with efficient consumption of power
- It is the most cheaper option on the list
Cons:
- It has the lowest write speed compared to the other SATA 2.5 SSDs
Buying Guide For The Best SATA SSD For Gaming
With the evolution of computer hardware components, storage drives also experienced technological advancement. As an alternative to the most commonly used hard disk drives (HDDs), SSDs came with improved performance. The SATA interface combined with the SSDs has already proven its ability for high-performance applications like gaming. We have already gone through the list of the best SATA SSD for gaming. With this buying guide, we will try to understand the importance of a few governing factors in the selection process of these drives.
1. Drive Type
The space availability in gaming PCs, gaming laptops, and notebooks is different. SATA SSDs are popular as they are available in various types. These types offer the same performance with a different form factor. Based on the form factor, the two types of SATA SSD are the SATA 2.5 and SATA M.2 drives. The 2.5 SSDs are named due to their 2.5-inch size. These drives were designed especially for desktops and laptops. The M.2 SSDs have a smaller form factor, making them smaller than the 2.5 drives. With a size of 22mm width and various lengths, this SSD easily fits thin notebooks or laptops. Depending on the form factor, you can choose between these two options. Since gaming enthusiasts find it crucial to make a cleaner setup, they can opt-out for an SSD with a suitable form factor.
2. Read/Write Speed
One of the most important parameters of an SSD is its reading and writing speed. As the name suggests, they refer to the ability of an SSD to read and write within a set time. These speeds eventually affect the performance of an SSD since the speed of data handling depends on these factors. The reading speed usually tells us how fast a drive can access and fetch the data from its storage. Usually, the reading speed of the current generation of SATA SSDs lies between 500 to 600 MB/s. It helps in faster loading of the accessed file or game.
On the other hand, the write speed is related to the drive’s ability to modify and store data quickly. This speed matters while doing basic operations like copying the file from one location to the other. Hence, write speed controls how quickly the file will transfer resulting in faster loading of the game. Similar to the read speed, write speed is also measured in MB/s. Write speed varies between 400 to 600 MB/s. While gaming, the read and write speed allows faster transfer of game data and prevents the game from lagging.
3. Storage Capacity
The data files might need to be accessed on a regular basis. Hence, SSDs offer permanent storage for these files for easy and quick access. The storage capacity of an SSD is crucial while dealing with the large size of games. The capacity of an SSD is usually measured in GB or TB. Depending on the type of SATA SSD, the storage capacity differs.
For the M.2 drives, the storage capacity ranges between 256 GB to 2 TB. Since these drives are used for compact gaming systems, this storage capacity is more than enough. The 2.5 SATA SSDs are available in 128 GB to 4 TB capacity options. Again, for gaming purposes, the 2 TB capacity is more than enough. Choosing an ideal storage capacity option will save you from spending more money on higher variants.
4. Installation Type
The SATA SSDs can be connected to the gaming system in various configurations, depending on the installation type, it can either be installed internally or externally. The SSDs are usually installed internally with the motherboard. This type of installation keeps the SSD close to the motherboard and allows less use of cables. The internal installation is different for both M.2 and 2.5 SATA SSDs. Due to a difference in architecture, the 2.5 SSD needs two cables. One cable is connected to the PSU which supplies power to the storage drive. Another cable is connected to the motherboard to allow data transfer. The M.2 SSDs are directly installed on the motherboard, eliminating the need for separate cables. These drives also support external installation. The storage drives use USB ports of a gaming system to connect with it. This type of installation is suitable when SSD need to be portable. External SSDs are also used for gaming systems where internal installation space is not available.
5. Specific Use For Product
The usage of a SATA SSD is not limited to just storing data files. Being an efficient drive, it can handle multiple operations and is thereby suitable for a number of applications. As mentioned earlier, it is popularly used as a storage device for gaming systems. The game data can be accessed whenever the user needs to.
The SATA SSD can handle large data files in a very short period. Hence, it is an important part of installing the system’s OS, additional software, games, etc. Being a gaming SSD, the loading of all the graphical data is done by this drive which is further processed and sent to the GPU by the CPU. SATA SSDs can also be paired with HDDs for enhanced performance. Due to the support of the external installation, the SATA SSD can be used as a portable storage device.
6. Warranty
The warranty plays an important role when buying a SATA SSD. Being an electrical component, the SSD is always in connection with electricity. Phenomena like overload or power spikes can damage the SSD. It is also susceptible to manufacturing damages and malfunction. The warranty covers certain damages for a given period of time.
If the SSD experiences a specified type of damage or malfunction within the warranty period, expenses on the repairs are covered by the brand. It also instills confidence into the user’s mind about the brand’s quality. Peace of mind to the consumer helps in retaining the consumer’s trust in the brand. Usually, the SATA SSDs are provided with a warranty of 3 to 5 years. However, a user must read about the damages covered by the brand, under warranty.
SATA SSD For Gaming FAQs
Ans: The selection of a suitable SATA SSD for gaming depends on various factors. The topmost priority is given to the type of performance you want from the SSD. A good read/write speed marks the SSD more valuable for gaming as it allows faster loading of games. Besides this, the overall storage capacity is given equal importance as SSD stores files. Depending on the form factor, the M.2 drives are suitable for thin systems while the 2.5-inch drives are for desktops. The pricing of the SATA SSD is also an important factor when the budget is concerned.
Ans: The total number of write cycles decides the lifespan of a SATA SSD. These write cycles are considered till the drive starts degrading. Measured in terabytes written (TBW), the lifespan tells us how much data a drive will write over its lifespan. Other factors like usage, loading conditions, and quality of materials, also affect the lifespan of a SATA SSD. The lifespan of normal SATA SSDs lies between 80 TBW to 700 TBW (some even go beyond 1000 TBW). The SATA SSDs can easily work for an average of 10 years before showing signs of degradation.
Ans: With the help of various precautions, the SSD can be kept healthy for a long time. Using the TRIM command, unnecessary data can be cleaned from the SSD. By keeping the SSD drivers/firmware updated, it is kept away from bugs. The cooling system is also necessary to keep the SSD from getting overheated. By checking the compatibility of the power supply to the SSD, any damage from electricity is avoided.
Ans: There are various brands that are known for manufacturing high-quality SATA SSDs. SAMSUNG is well known for its high-end computer hardware components. TEAMGROUP makes sure budget-oriented gamers won’t feel left out. Other brands like Western Digital, PNY, SanDisk, etc are already known names in the computer component market. Each brand offers reliable SSDs with different specifications. You can choose them depending on your demand.
Conclusion
For a gaming setup, SSDs are a good alternative to HDDs due to their better performance and higher data transfer rate. Since SSDs are available in different types, every type of gaming system can benefit from their performance. The M.2 and 2.5 SSDs are the most popular types of storage drives used for gaming systems. This article includes a list of these SATA SSDs for gaming. It also explains the importance of governing factors in a guiding guide. The FAQ section further answers the questions related to SATA SSDs. With the help of this discussion, we have chosen our favorite option from the list.
- If you want an M.2 SSD with better performance and durability, the Western Digital SATA SSD is the right option. With the SATA III interface, this drive can achieve data transfer rates of up to 6 Gb/s. It can achieve a read speed of 560 MB/s, while the write speed can go up to 530 MB/s. This results in a smooth transfer of game data and thereby faster loading of the game. The 3D NAND architecture takes care of power consumption without affecting performance. This SSD comes with a 1 TB storage capacity, which is enough for storing larger games or software. The M.2 form factor is ideal for gaming systems with limited space. With a mean time to failure (MTTF) of 1.7 million hours and a terabyte written rating of 500, it ensures better durability.
- If a 2.5-inch SATA SSD is your priority, the SanDisk SATA SSD is an ideal choice. Designed for enhanced gaming, it offers read/write speeds of 560 MB/s and 530 MB/s for accelerated performance. The nCache 2.0 technology prioritizes the writing processes to optimize data transfer. The SATA III interface ensures the transfer of large files at a speed of 6 Gb/s. The 2.5-inch form factor makes it suitable for use in both gaming desktops and laptops. This drive offers a storage capacity of 2 TB, providing ample space for all types of games and software. Thanks to its 3D NAND configuration, the drive consumes less power without compromising performance. It ensures 500 terabytes written (TBW) during its lifetime, making it a durable option. Additionally, the drive comes with a five-year warranty for added security.
- To enjoy gaming on a limited budget, the TEAMGROUP SATA SSD offers exceptional performance at an affordable price tag. Utilizing the SATA III interface, it can transfer large data files at speeds of up to 6 GB/s. The read/write speed of 540 MB/s and 490 MB/s allows faster access to the file along with efficient modification and copying of data. It has a 3D NAND TLC architecture, which ensures efficient power consumption. A 2.5-inch form factor makes it compatible with gaming desktops, PlayStation, Xbox, and other platforms. With a storage capacity of 1 TB, users have ample space for storing games, software, or personal files. Features such as TRIM, wear-leveling, and garbage collection help in maintaining the health of the SSD. Even at a lower price point, this SSD delivers data 4 times faster than the HDDs.
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