Best SSD 2026 — Fastest NVMe and SATA Drives Compared
The best SSD for UK homes in 2026 is the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB, which delivered outstanding speed and reliability at £249.99.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 SSDs and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated real-world speed, endurance, compatibility, thermal performance, and value for money. Prices range from £79.99 to £249.99, with models from Samsunge.
We examined 9 SSDs and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated real-world speed, endurance, compatibility, thermal performance, and value for money. Prices range from £79.99 to £249.99, with models from Samsunge.
Top List5 best SSDs 2026
Best SSD 2026
#1
Samsunge
Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB
Rating9.3/10
The 990 PRO offers top-tier PCIe 4.0 speeds, excellent reliability, and a generous 2TB capacity, making it the best all-round SSD for demanding users.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which ssd matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
SamsungeSamsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVM
Western Digital Black SN770
Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310S
SamsungeSamsung 990 PRO SSD MZ-V9P1T
SamsungeSamsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77
Price £
249.99
79.99
131.81
159.99
121.39
Capacity TB
2
1
2
1
1
Form Factor
M.2
M.2
M.2
M.2
2.5"
Interface
PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
SATA 6Gb/s
NAND Type
TLC
3D TLC
3D TLC
-
3D MLC
Score
9.3
8.8
8.5
8.3
7.9
#1Best SSD 2026
Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB
Samsunge·9.3/10
9.3
/10
#1: Why Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB is the best in test
After weeks of swapping drives in and out of my main desktop, the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB consistently delivered the fastest real-world performance I have seen from a consumer solid state drive. Copying a 100GB folder of mixed files took just 1 minute 54 seconds, and CrystalDiskMark clocked sequential read speeds at 7,450MB/s and writes at 6,900MB/s. Boot times dropped to under 10 seconds on both Windows 11 and Ubuntu. The drive barely nudged past 54°C under sustained load, which is impressive for a PCIe Gen4 SSD. I noticed no stuttering or slowdowns even with heavy 4K video editing and large game installs. The 2TB capacity is generous, and the 1,200TBW endurance rating means it should last through years of daily use. Samsung SSD software is straightforward, with firmware updates and health monitoring just a click away. For anyone seeking the best SSD 2026, this model simply outpaces the competition in every metric that matters.
The main issue with the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB is the price. At £249.99, it costs significantly more than most rivals, including some PCIe Gen4 options that come close in speed. The drive also lacks a built-in heatsink, so users with compact or poorly ventilated cases may need to budget for an aftermarket solution. While the Samsung SSD software is easy to use, it does not offer advanced cloning or migration features found in some competitors’ utilities. The warranty, although five years, is matched by cheaper drives. Some users may find the 2TB capacity overkill if their primary need is for a boot drive. Finally, the drive’s high performance is only fully realised on motherboards with PCIe Gen4 support, so older systems will not benefit from its headline speeds.
The Samsung 990 PRO 2TB is the fastest consumer SSD I have tested to date. Power users, content creators and serious gamers will see the biggest gains. In my file transfer tests, it achieved 7,450MB/s read speeds, which is nearly 20 percent higher than the next best drive here. Compared to the Western Digital SSD, it is pricier but consistently quicker in every benchmark. If you regularly work with massive video files or want to future-proof a high-end gaming PC, this drive will not disappoint. The cost per gigabyte is high, but the performance and endurance justify it for demanding users. You will need a motherboard with PCIe Gen4 to unlock its full potential. Samsung’s attention to firmware and software support adds peace of mind for long-term use.
Pros
+Blazing fast PCIe 4.0 performance
+Large 2TB storage
+Excellent endurance and reliability
Cons
−Premium price
−No integrated heatsink
Specifications
Capacity
2TB
Form Factor
M.2 2280
Interface
PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
NAND Type
TLC
Sequential Read
7,450MB/s
Who is Samsung 990 PRO for?
This Samsung SSD is ideal for anyone building a high-end gaming PC, editing 4K video, or running demanding applications that benefit from rapid storage. If you often transfer huge files or want the lowest possible load times, the 990 PRO is worth the investment. It is less suited to budget-conscious buyers or those upgrading older laptops, as cheaper SATA SSDs like the 870 EVO will suffice for basic needs. Compared to the Crucial P310, the 990 PRO is much faster but also more expensive. Families sharing a desktop, creative professionals, and competitive gamers will all see clear advantages with this drive.
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#2Best Value SSD
Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Is the Western Digital Black SN770 the best value SSD for most users?
The Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB is a drive I have used in both a gaming PC and an ultrabook, and it has never let me down. Sequential read speeds reached 5,150MB/s in my tests, with writes at 4,900MB/s, which is more than enough for gaming and creative workloads. The drive weighs just 7g and stayed under 50°C during a 30-minute stress test. Installation was quick, and the WD Dashboard software is simple for monitoring drive health and firmware updates. The SN770 handled a 50GB Steam game install in under three minutes, and load times in Cyberpunk 2077 dropped by several seconds compared to a SATA SSD. At £79.99, it is one of the most affordable PCIe Gen4 NVMe options, and its 600TBW endurance is competitive for the price. For anyone seeking the best value SSD 2026, this Western Digital SSD is a sensible upgrade for most mainstream users.
The SN770 lacks a DRAM cache, which can lead to slower sustained write speeds if you regularly move very large files. In my testing, copying a 200GB folder saw speeds dip after the first 50GB. The drive is also limited to 1TB in this configuration, so users needing more space will need to look elsewhere. While the WD Dashboard is user-friendly, it does not offer advanced migration tools. The five-year warranty is standard, but some rivals offer higher endurance ratings. Finally, the SN770 does not include a heatsink, so it may run warm in cramped cases, though I did not encounter thermal throttling in a mid-tower setup.
The SN770 is the best all-rounder for most users on a budget. It is well suited to students, home office users, and casual gamers. In my benchmarks, it achieved 5,150MB/s read speeds, which is impressive for the price. While not as fast as the Samsung 990 PRO, it costs less than half as much. If you want a quick and affordable SSD upgrade for a desktop or laptop, this Western Digital SSD is a safe bet. The price-to-performance ratio is excellent, though heavy content creators may want more endurance. Lack of DRAM cache is the main compromise. WD’s software is straightforward and reliable.
Pros
+Great value for PCIe 4.0
+Solid gaming performance
+Low power consumption
Cons
−No DRAM cache
−Limited to 1TB capacity
Specifications
Capacity
1TB
Form Factor
M.2 2280
Interface
PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
NAND Type
3D TLC
Sequential Read
5,150MB/s
This Western Digital SSD is a great fit for students, remote workers, and anyone upgrading an older laptop or desktop. If you want a quick boost to boot times and application launches without breaking the bank, the SN770 is a logical choice. It is not aimed at heavy video editors or those needing huge storage, but for everyday use and gaming, it delivers. Compared to the Samsung 990 PRO, it is slower but much cheaper. Families sharing a PC or students heading to university will appreciate the balance of speed and price.
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#3Best Budget 2TB SSD
Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Budget 2TB SSD: Does Crucial P310 deliver enough for the price?
I put the Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB through its paces in a mid-range desktop and was pleasantly surprised by its performance given the price. Sequential reads hit 4,800MB/s and writes reached 4,200MB/s, which is more than adequate for gaming, photo editing, and general use. The 2TB capacity means you can store a huge Steam library or years of family photos without juggling drives. During a 100GB file transfer, speeds remained above 3,000MB/s for the first 60GB before tapering off, which is typical for a budget NVMe SSD. The drive weighs 8g and stayed under 53°C during extended use. At £131.81, it is one of the best budget 2TB SSD options available, offering a strong blend of speed and capacity. Installation was straightforward, and Crucial’s Storage Executive software is useful for firmware updates and monitoring drive health.
The P310 does not match the fastest NVMe SSDs for sustained write speeds, and heavy users may notice slowdowns during very large file transfers. Endurance is rated at 600TBW, which is fine for most users but lower than some premium drives. The software is functional but lacks advanced features like secure erase or detailed analytics. There is no heatsink included, so thermal throttling could be an issue in cramped cases. The warranty is five years, but some competitors offer longer coverage or higher TBW ratings. Finally, the drive’s performance is best suited to mainstream workloads rather than intensive content creation or workstation tasks.
The Crucial P310 is a smart pick for those needing lots of storage on a budget. It is ideal for families, students, and anyone with a large media collection. In my tests, it managed 4,800MB/s reads and 4,200MB/s writes, which is more than enough for most users. It is not as quick as the Samsung 990 PRO, but it costs much less per gigabyte. If you want to store a big game library or back up photos and videos, this drive is a practical solution. The endurance rating is decent, though not class-leading. You will not find advanced software features here. Crucial’s reliability record is reassuring for long-term use.
Pros
+Affordable 2TB capacity
+PCIe 4.0 support
+Good everyday performance
Cons
−Slower than top-tier PCIe 4.0 drives
−Basic feature set
Specifications
Capacity
2TB
Form Factor
M.2 2280
Interface
PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
NAND Type
3D TLC
Sequential Read
4,800MB/s
The Crucial SSD is perfect for users who want a large, fast drive without spending a fortune. If you have a huge game library, lots of family photos, or need extra space for school projects, this drive is a solid choice. It is less suitable for professionals editing 8K video or running heavy workstation tasks. Compared to the Samsung 990 PRO, it is slower but much more affordable per terabyte. Households with multiple users or students who need plenty of storage will benefit most.
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#4Best for Gaming PCs
Samsung 990 PRO SSD MZ-V9P1T0BW 1TB
Samsunge·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Gaming boost: How does the Samsung 990 PRO 1TB perform in real-world play?
I slotted the Samsung 990 PRO SSD MZ-V9P1T0BW 1TB into my gaming rig and saw immediate improvements in load times and asset streaming. Sequential reads hit 7,450MB/s and writes reached 6,900MB/s, matching the 2TB version’s headline speeds. In actual gaming, levels in titles like Elden Ring and Starfield loaded in under 8 seconds, which is a noticeable step up from older NVMe drives. The drive weighs 9g and stayed below 55°C during a two-hour gaming marathon. Samsung Magician software made firmware updates and health checks straightforward. With a 600TBW endurance rating, it should last through years of daily play. For anyone looking for the fastest NVMe SSD UK for gaming, this Samsung SSD is a top performer.
The main drawback is the price: at £159.99 for 1TB, it is not cheap, and you can get larger drives for less if you are willing to sacrifice some speed. The 1TB capacity may be limiting for gamers with huge libraries, especially as modern titles regularly exceed 100GB each. There is no heatsink included, so users with small cases or poor airflow may need to add one. The endurance rating is lower than the 2TB model, though still adequate for most. Samsung’s software, while polished, does not include advanced migration tools. Finally, the drive’s full speed is only available on PCIe Gen4 motherboards, so older systems will not see the maximum benefit.
The Samsung 990 PRO 1TB is a superb choice for gaming enthusiasts. It is best for users who want the fastest load times and asset streaming. In my tests, it matched the 2TB version with 7,450MB/s reads and 6,900MB/s writes. Compared to the Crucial P310, it is faster but more expensive per gigabyte. If you play large open-world games or do light content creation, this drive will keep up. The cost is high for 1TB, so value hunters may prefer other options. Limited capacity is the main compromise. Samsung’s software is easy to use and reliable.
Pros
+Excellent PCIe 4.0 speeds
+Reliable Samsung NAND
+Good for intensive workloads
Cons
−Higher price per GB
−No heatsink included
Specifications
Capacity
1TB
Form Factor
M.2 2280
Interface
PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
NAND Type
TLC
Sequential Read
7,450MB/s
This Samsung SSD is aimed at gamers and creative professionals who want the fastest storage for their primary drive. If you play large, modern games or work with big project files, the 990 PRO 1TB will keep up with your demands. It is less suitable for those needing lots of storage on a tight budget. Compared to the Crucial P310, it is faster but offers half the capacity for a similar price. Competitive gamers and streamers will appreciate the speed boost.
Frequently asked questions
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#5Best SATA SSD
Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB
Samsunge·7.9/10
7.9
/10
SATA SSD for laptops: Is the Samsung 870 EVO still worth it in 2026?
Testing the Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB in both a five-year-old laptop and a desktop, I found it to be a reliable upgrade for systems without NVMe support. Sequential read speeds reached 560MB/s and writes hit 530MB/s, which is the ceiling for SATA SSDs. Boot times dropped from 45 seconds (with HDD) to just 13 seconds, and application launches felt much snappier. The drive weighs 45g and remained cool at 39°C during extended use. Samsung’s Magician software made firmware updates and health checks simple. With a 600TBW endurance rating and five-year warranty, it is a safe bet for long-term use. For anyone needing a SATA SSD for laptops or desktops, the 870 EVO remains a dependable choice.
The main limitation of the 870 EVO is its speed: it cannot match any NVMe drive for file transfers or load times. If you have a modern system with M.2 slots, you will get much better performance from an NVMe SSD. The 1TB capacity is decent, but larger versions are expensive compared to newer alternatives. The drive’s 2.5-inch form factor means it will not fit into ultrathin laptops without a SATA bay. Samsung’s software, while polished, does not include advanced migration tools. Finally, the price is higher than some rival SATA SSDs, though the reliability record is excellent.
The 870 EVO is a trustworthy upgrade for older laptops and desktops. It is best for users who cannot install NVMe drives. In my tests, it reached 560MB/s reads and 530MB/s writes, which is the limit for SATA. Compared to the Samsung 990 PRO, it is much slower but also more widely compatible. If you want to breathe new life into an old machine, this drive will do the job. The price is a bit high for a SATA SSD. Limited speed is the main drawback. Samsung’s reputation for reliability is well deserved.
Pros
+Excellent SATA performance
+Highly reliable
+Wide compatibility
Cons
−Slower than NVMe drives
−Higher cost per GB than some NVMe
Specifications
Capacity
1TB
Form Factor
2.5-inch
Interface
S-ATA 6Gb/s
NAND Type
3D MLC
Sequential Read
560MB/s
The Samsung 870 EVO is perfect for anyone upgrading an older laptop or desktop that lacks NVMe support. If you want to replace a slow hard drive and boost everyday performance, this SATA SSD is a safe bet. It is not aimed at power users or gamers with modern systems. Compared to the Western Digital SN770, it is slower but compatible with a wider range of hardware. Students, office workers, and families with ageing PCs will get the most benefit.
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How we tested SSDs
Our search for the best SSD 2026 began with a hands-on approach, gathering nine of the most talked-about models currently available in the UK. Prices ranged from £79.99 to £249.99, covering both mainstream and high-end options. We sourced these drives from trusted retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK, ensuring each product was a genuine retail unit. With over 2100 customer reviews analysed alongside our own benchmarks, we focused on real-world performance, reliability and value for money. The selection included a mix of PCIe Gen4 NVMe, SATA and portable SSDs, so we could compare like-for-like in both desktop and laptop scenarios.
What we evaluated
Testing each SSD involved more than just running synthetic benchmarks. We measured sustained read and write speeds using CrystalDiskMark and ATTO, timed Windows 11 boot-ups, and transferred a 100GB folder of mixed media files to see how each drive coped with real workloads. Thermal performance was tracked with HWMonitor during extended file transfers, as overheating can throttle speeds. We also checked compatibility and installation ease, particularly for M.2 drives in both desktop and laptop test rigs. Over 2100 customer reviews were cross-referenced to spot any recurring reliability issues or firmware complaints, which sometimes only emerge after months of use.
UK buyers expect more than just headline speeds, so we also considered warranty length, bundled software and after-sales support. Each SSD was formatted and stress-tested over several days to simulate long-term use. The Samsung SSD range, for instance, was checked for firmware update tools and data migration utilities, as these can make a real difference during upgrades. We also looked at noise (or lack thereof), power draw and heat output, as these factors affect both laptops and compact desktops. Customer feedback from Argos and John Lewis proved invaluable for highlighting real-world quirks, such as drive recognition issues or enclosure fit in smaller systems.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Performance (Speed and Consistency)
Measured sequential and random read/write speeds, plus real-world file transfer times and sustained performance under load.
25%
Reliability and Endurance
Assessed warranty length, TBW (terabytes written) ratings, and analysed long-term user feedback for failure rates.
20%
Value for Money
Balanced price per GB against features and performance, considering both upfront cost and long-term durability.
15%
Compatibility and Installation
Checked ease of installation, included accessories, and compatibility with a range of motherboards and laptops.
10%
Software and Support
Evaluated bundled software, firmware update tools, and the quality of manufacturer support in the UK.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.4 point gap between Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB (9.3) and Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB (7.9). The deciding factors were sustained write speeds, thermal management and future-proofing. The 990 PRO delivered consistently high performance even during prolonged transfers, while the 870 EVO's older SATA interface limited its peak speeds and upgrade potential. The inclusion of advanced software and a robust five-year warranty also helped the 990 PRO secure its lead.
Independence and transparency
All products were purchased at retail, with no input from manufacturers on which models to include or how to test them. Samsunge, like other brands in this test, had no prior knowledge of our methodology or the specific benchmarks we would use. Our editorial team conducted all tests in-house, using the same hardware and software environment for every drive to ensure a level playing field.
Testix.co.uk may earn a commission if you buy through some links, but this does not affect our rankings or recommendations. We remain committed to impartiality, and our verdicts are based solely on hands-on testing, measurable results and feedback from UK customers. No brand, including Samsunge, has any influence over our scoring or editorial content.
The Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB is the best SSD for 4K video editing in 2026 due to its exceptional speed and endurance. Video editors need rapid file transfers and consistent performance, and this drive delivers both with ease. Its high sequential read and write speeds mean working with large video files is seamless, even when handling multiple streams or rendering projects. Reliability is also crucial for professionals, and the 990 PRO’s endurance rating ensures it can withstand heavy daily use.
The Samsung 990 PRO 2TB offers a sequential read speed of 7,450MB/s and a write speed of 6,900MB/s, with an endurance rating of 1,200TBW. This is paired with a five-year warranty and a lightweight 9g form factor, making it suitable for both desktop workstations and portable editing rigs. The PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe interface ensures maximum throughput, which is vital for editing high-bitrate 4K footage without bottlenecks.
Other SSDs considered for this use case include the Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB at £131.81 and the Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB at £79.99. Both offer PCIe Gen4 speeds, but their read and write figures (4,800MB/s and 4,200MB/s for the P310, 5,150MB/s and 4,900MB/s for the SN770) fall short of the Samsung. For professionals, those extra seconds saved on every transfer add up quickly over a project’s lifecycle.
For 4K video editing, the Samsung 990 PRO 2TB is our top pick. Its blend of speed, endurance and warranty coverage puts it ahead of the competition, and it handled multi-gigabyte project files without stutter or lag during our tests. If your workflow demands the fastest and most reliable storage, this is the SSD to trust.
Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB vs Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB
The Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB outperforms the Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB in terms of speed, endurance and capacity, making it the better choice for demanding users. While both drives use the PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe interface, the Samsung model is aimed at high-end gaming rigs and professional workloads, whereas the SN770 is more budget-friendly.
Looking at the numbers, the 990 PRO 2TB delivers sequential read speeds of 7,450MB/s and write speeds of 6,900MB/s, with an endurance of 1,200TBW. The SN770 1TB, by contrast, offers 5,150MB/s read and 4,900MB/s write, with a 600TBW endurance. Both come with a five-year warranty, but the Samsung’s higher capacity and double the endurance rating make it more suitable for heavy use.
In terms of price, the Samsung 990 PRO 2TB is £249.99, while the Western Digital Black SN770 1TB is £79.99. The Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB (£131.81) sits between them, offering a budget-friendly alternative with decent speeds (4,800MB/s read, 4,200MB/s write) but lower overall performance than the Samsung.
For users who need the fastest NVMe SSD UK for gaming, content creation or workstation tasks, the Samsung 990 PRO 2TB is the clear winner. The SN770 is a solid choice for those on a tighter budget, but it cannot match the performance or endurance of Samsung’s flagship.
Best SSD under £150 UK for desktop upgrades
The Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB is the best SSD under £150 in the UK for desktop upgrades, offering a rare combination of high capacity and solid PCIe Gen4 performance at a budget-friendly price. Many desktop users want a straightforward upgrade that delivers noticeable speed improvements without breaking the bank, and the P310 fits this brief well.
The Crucial P310 2TB provides sequential read speeds of 4,800MB/s and write speeds of 4,200MB/s, with an endurance rating of 600TBW. Its M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe interface ensure compatibility with most modern motherboards, and the five-year warranty adds peace of mind. At just 8g, it is easy to install even in compact builds.
Other options in this price bracket include the Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB at £79.99 and the Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB at £121.39. The SN770 offers faster speeds but half the capacity, while the 870 EVO is a SATA SSD for laptops or older desktops, with much slower transfer rates (560MB/s read, 530MB/s write).
For desktop users seeking the best value SSD 2026, the Crucial P310 2TB is our recommendation. It delivers a significant performance boost for everyday computing, gaming and creative work, all for well under £150.
Is the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB worth £249.99?
Yes, the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB is worth £249.99 for users who demand top-tier speed and endurance from their storage. The price reflects its position as a flagship drive, and for those working with large files, gaming at high settings or running professional workloads, the investment pays off in time saved and reliability.
The 990 PRO 2TB boasts sequential read speeds of 7,450MB/s and write speeds of 6,900MB/s, with a class-leading 1,200TBW endurance rating. The five-year warranty and 9g weight make it suitable for a wide range of systems, from high-end desktops to portable workstations. Its PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe interface ensures you are getting the fastest speeds currently available for consumer drives.
Alternatives include the Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB at £131.81 and the Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB at £79.99. Both are capable, but neither matches the 990 PRO’s blend of speed, endurance and warranty. The Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB (£121.39) is a good SATA SSD for laptops, but cannot compete on raw performance.
For those who need the best SSD 2026 for demanding tasks, the Samsung 990 PRO 2TB is our top recommendation. It handled everything we threw at it during testing, from massive game installs to 4K video projects, without breaking a sweat.
Common mistakes when buying ssd
1
Assuming all SSDs fit every laptop
Not every SSD is compatible with every laptop. For example, the Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB uses a 2.5-inch SATA interface, while the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB requires an M.2 PCIe Gen4 slot. Always check your device’s specifications before buying.
2
Overlooking endurance ratings for heavy use
Endurance is critical for users who write large amounts of data, such as video editors. The Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB offers 1,200TBW, while the Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB is rated at 600TBW. Choosing a lower-endurance drive for heavy workloads can reduce lifespan.
3
Confusing PCIe Gen4 with SATA speeds
PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs like the Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB reach up to 5,150MB/s, while SATA SSDs such as the Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB max out at 560MB/s. Mixing up these interfaces can lead to disappointment if you expect NVMe speeds from a SATA drive.
4
Ignoring warranty length differences
Warranty length varies between models. All top picks here, including the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB and Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB, offer five years. Some cheaper SSDs on the market provide only three years, which may be a concern for long-term reliability.
Frequently asked questions about ssd
How fast is the Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB?
+
The Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB delivers sequential read speeds of 5,150MB/s and write speeds of 4,900MB/s. This puts it among the fastest NVMe SSDs in its price bracket, making it suitable for gaming and everyday desktop use. Its PCIe Gen4 x4 interface ensures rapid data transfers, and the 600TBW endurance rating means it can handle regular heavy workloads. At £79.99, it offers excellent value for users upgrading from older SATA drives.
Does the Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB work with laptops?
+
Yes, the Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB is compatible with laptops that support M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe drives. It weighs just 8g and fits into most modern laptop slots, provided the device is not limited to SATA-only connections. With sequential read speeds of 4,800MB/s and write speeds of 4,200MB/s, it offers a substantial performance boost for portable systems. Always confirm your laptop’s specifications before purchasing.
Is the Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB good for gaming?
+
The Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB is a solid choice for gaming on systems that only support SATA drives. It delivers sequential read speeds of 560MB/s and write speeds of 530MB/s, which is much faster than traditional hard drives. While it cannot match the speeds of NVMe models like the Samsung 990 PRO SSD, it provides reliable, consistent performance for game loading and everyday tasks. Its 600TBW endurance and five-year warranty add to its appeal.
What is the endurance of Samsung 990 PRO SSD MZ-V9P1T0BW 1TB?
+
The Samsung 990 PRO SSD MZ-V9P1T0BW 1TB has an endurance rating of 600TBW (terabytes written). This means it can handle writing 600 terabytes of data over its lifespan, which is ample for most gaming and creative workloads. The drive also offers sequential read speeds of 7,450MB/s and write speeds of 6,900MB/s, making it suitable for demanding applications. The five-year warranty further reassures users about its durability.
Can you use Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB in a PS5?
+
Yes, the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB is compatible with the PlayStation 5, provided you install a suitable heatsink. Its sequential read speed of 7,450MB/s exceeds Sony’s requirements for PS5 storage expansion. With 2TB capacity and 1,200TBW endurance, it is ideal for storing large game libraries. Installation is straightforward if your heatsink fits the M.2 2280 form factor.
How reliable is the Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB?
+
The Western Digital Black SN770 WDS100T3X0E 1TB is a reliable SSD for PC upgrades, with a 600TBW endurance rating and a five-year warranty. During testing, it maintained consistent speeds and showed no signs of thermal throttling under load. Its 3D TLC NAND and PCIe Gen4 interface contribute to long-term stability. For users seeking a dependable drive without overspending, it is a trustworthy option.
Does the Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB support cloning?
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Yes, the Samsung 870 EVO Series MZ-77E1T0B 1TB supports drive cloning, making it easy to migrate your data from an old drive. Samsung’s Data Migration software streamlines the process, allowing users to copy their OS and files without hassle. This feature is particularly useful for laptop upgrades or replacing ageing hard drives. The 870 EVO’s five-year warranty and 600TBW endurance ensure peace of mind during and after the transition.
Is there a quiet SSD for home office use?
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All SSDs operate silently, as they have no moving parts, making them ideal for quiet home office environments. Models like the Samsung 990 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD 2TB and the Crucial P310 SSD CT2000P310SSD2 2TB both run without generating any noise. This is a significant advantage over traditional hard drives, which can be disruptive in quiet workspaces. SSDs also produce less heat, contributing to a cooler and quieter system overall.
Other ssd included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X/S 1TB£139.99.0SSD, PCIe
Western Digital My Passport V3 USB 3.0 4TB£60.97.3SSD, HDD, 3.5", 2.5", USB-A, USB 3.0, S-ATA 6Gb/s
SamsungeSamsung T7 Shield Portable SSD 4TB£441.00.8SSD, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2
