Upgrading your PC or laptop? Want better speed but not looking to spend a fortune? You’re in luck! SSDs are now cheaper than ever, and that means you can score blazing-fast storage without burning your wallet.
We’ll take you through the best cheap SSDs on the market today. This guide keeps things simple, fun, and packed with helpful info. So buckle up and get ready to zoom through storage choices!
Why Choose an SSD?
Table of Contents
Before we dive in, let’s quickly touch on why SSDs are better than traditional hard drives (HDDs):
- Speed: SSDs are lightning fast. Your PC boots in seconds and apps open instantly.
- Durability: No moving parts means fewer chances of breaking.
- Energy Efficient: They use less power, perfect for laptops.
- Silent: No spinning discs = no noise!
Sounds good, right?
What to Look for in a Cheap SSD
Cheap doesn’t mean you should settle for junk. Here’s what to keep in mind when browsing:
- Storage Size: 240GB to 1TB is common for budget SSDs—pick one based on your needs.
- Form Factor: Most are 2.5-inch SATA drives. Make sure it’s compatible with your device.
- Read/Write Speeds: For SATA SSDs, 500MB/s is a good average. NVMe is even faster.
- Brand Reputation: Stick to known brands. They’re more reliable and usually have a warranty.
Top 5 Cheap SSDs in 2024 (Ranked)
Now for the juicy part. Here’s a list of the best budget SSDs you can buy right now.
1. Crucial BX500 – The All-Rounder
This SSD is super affordable and works great for general use. If you’re upgrading from an HDD, the speed difference will blow your socks off.
- Type: SATA III 2.5″
- Speed: Up to 540MB/s read
- Available Sizes: 240GB to 2TB
- Price Range: Around $20–$90
Best for: Everyday users and budget laptop upgrades.
2. WD Blue SA510 – Perfect for Workstations
Western Digital’s Blue SA510 offers stable performance at an affordable price. It has a great balance of speed and durability.
- Type: SATA III 2.5″
- Speed: Up to 545MB/s
- Available Sizes: 250GB to 1TB
- Price Range: $25–$60
Best for: Light productivity, home offices, and media buffs.
3. Kingston A400 – The Veteran Choice
This one has been around for years and still rocks! The A400 is basic, no-frills, but delivers good SSD performance at a great price.
- Type: SATA III 2.5″
- Speed: Up to 500MB/s read
- Available Sizes: 120GB to 960GB
- Price Range: $15–$50
Best for: Replacing aging hard drives or breathing new life into old systems.
4. TEAMGROUP GX2 – Hidden Gem
Not everyone knows about TEAMGROUP, but their GX2 SSD is a bang-for-your-buck option! Performance is solid, and it’s one of the cheapest 1TB SSDs you’ll find.
- Type: SATA III 2.5″
- Speed: Up to 530MB/s
- Available Sizes: 128GB to 2TB
- Price Range: $17–$75
Best for: Gamers on a budget and backup storage.
5. Silicon Power A55 – Budget Speedster
This one is fast for the price and has strong user reviews. It’s also frequently on sale, so keep an eye out!
- Type: SATA III 2.5″
- Speed: Up to 560MB/s
- Available Sizes: 128GB to 1TB
- Price Range: $18–$65
Best for: First-time SSD buyers and casual desktop users.
Feeling Fancy? NVMe on a Budget!
If you’re looking for even faster speeds and your computer supports NVMe (usually M.2 slots), you’re in for a treat.
Here are some budget NVMe SSDs worth checking out:
- Western Digital SN570 – Up to 3,500MB/s and usually priced under $50 for 500GB.
- Crucial P3 – Great performance and value for daily use.
- ADATA XPG SX8200 Pro – Slightly pricier, but amazing value per dollar.
Tip: NVMe drives are better for gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking.
How to Choose the Right SSD Size
Not sure how much space you need? Here’s a quick guide:
- 120GB: Good for light use or Chromebooks.
- 240GB–256GB: Enough for OS and a few key programs.
- 480GB–512GB: Perfect balance for most users.
- 1TB: Great for gamers and content creators.
Installing an SSD
Don’t worry—it’s not rocket science. For most 2.5″ SSDs, just follow these steps:
- Turn off your PC or laptop.
- Open up the drive bay (check your manual if unsure).
- Unscrew the old drive (if needed) and plug in the SSD.
- Secure, close the case, and boot up!
Then, install your OS or clone your old drive to the new SSD. You’re all set!
Where to Buy Cheap SSDs
You can find great deals on sites like:
- Amazon
- Newegg
- Best Buy
- eBay (be cautious and check seller ratings!)
Pro tip: Use browser extensions like Honey or CamelCamelCamel to track SSD prices and grab the best discounts.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—the world of cheap SSDs isn’t scary at all. With just $20 to $50, you can drastically improve the speed and lifespan of your computer.
Whether you’re a gamer, student, work-from-home warrior, or just want to make your old laptop snappier, SSDs are a total game-changer.
Still using a spinning hard drive? It’s time for an upgrade, my friend!
Happy speeding and enjoy the storage upgrade!
