Best Internal SSD of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Internal SSDs, or solid-state drives, are an essential component in modern computer systems. These drives offer faster read and write speeds than traditional hard drives, resulting in improved system performance and faster data access times. They are also highly reliable and durable, with no moving parts that can break or fail. Internal SSDs come in a variety of storage capacities to suit different needs, from smaller capacities for basic computing needs to larger capacities for gaming, video editing, and other intensive tasks. Their compact size and easy installation make them a popular choice for upgrading older systems or building new ones.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 Gaming SSD Cover #TOP 1
WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 Gaming SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Crucial P310 500GB NVMe SSD Cover #TOP 2
Crucial P310 500GB NVMe SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD Cover #TOP 3
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Internal SSD

#TOP 1

WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 Gaming SSD

WDS200T4X0E
Black
WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 Gaming SSD Cover
WD_Black SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD - Gen4 PCIe, M.2 2280, Up to 7,250 MB/s Read Speed, Up to 6,900 MB/s Write Speed, Next Gen TLC 3D NAND, for Laptops, Handheld Gaming Devices - WDS200T4X0E

The WD_BLACK Gaming SSD offers lightning-fast speeds, reaching up to 7,250MB/s for reading and 6,900MB/s for writing. This means you can load games and applications almost instantly, enhancing your gaming experience. Designed specifically for serious gamers, it utilizes a PCIe Gen4 interface and advanced TLC 3D NAND technology, providing improved performance by up to 35% compared to older models. With a generous storage capacity of up to 2TB, you can store all your favorite games without worrying about space. Additionally, this SSD is optimized for laptops and handheld devices, delivering double the power efficiency of its predecessors.

What We Like
Blazing fast read/write speeds
Exceptional power efficiency
Easy installation
Runs cool under load
High storage capacity
What We Don't Like
Software compatibility minor issue
Cloning software not included

Crucial P310 500GB NVMe SSD

CT500P310SSD801
Black
500GB
Crucial P310 500GB NVMe SSD Cover
Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280, Up to 6,600MB/s, for Laptop, Desktop (PC), & Handheld Gaming Consoles, Includes Acronis Data Recovery Software, Solid State Drive - CT500P310SSD801

The Crucial P310 SSD delivers impressive performance with speeds reaching up to 6,600MB/s, allowing you to experience quicker boot times, faster file transfers, and smoother game loading. You will appreciate the enhanced efficiency, as it boosts your productivity in applications like Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Excel by nearly 20%. Additionally, this SSD extends your device's storage capacity, ensuring you can keep more important files. With up to 40% better performance-to-power ratio, you can achieve more tasks without draining your battery quickly, making it an excellent choice for both work and play.

What We Like
High-speed PCIe Gen4 performance
Easy installation process
Large storage capacity options
Reliable brand reputation
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Limited by motherboard PCIe version
Occasional stock fluctuation/pricing concerns

Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD

CT1000BX500SSD1
Black
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD Cover
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD, up to 540MB/s - CT1000BX500SSD1, Solid State Drive

Upgrade to the Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD for a faster boot up, quicker file loading, and improved overall system responsiveness. This internal SSD is 300% faster than a typical hard drive and 45x more energy efficient, which also improves battery life. With Micron 3D NAND technology, it advances the world's memory and storage for 40 years.

What We Like
Fast load times
Easy installation
Reliable performance
Good value for money
Runs cool and quiet
What We Don't Like
Cloning software issues
No DRAM cache
#TOP 4

Samsung 990 PRO 4TB PCIe 4.0 SSD

MZ-V9P4T0B/AM
Samsung 990 PRO 4TB PCIe 4.0 SSD Cover
Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 7,450 MB/s for High End Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations, MZ-V9P4T0B/AM

The Samsung 990 PRO SSD offers blazing fast speeds designed to enhance your computing experience, whether you're gaming or working on heavy tasks. With its next-generation PCIe 4.0 technology, you get lightning-fast data transfers that help you load games and applications quickly. This SSD also delivers a significant boost in random performance compared to previous models, making it ideal for demanding workloads. Storage options up to 4TB provide plenty of space to save your games, videos, and important files, giving you freedom and convenience to keep everything in one place without worrying about running out of room.

What We Like
Blazing fast read/write speeds
Reliable performance and stability
Excellent heat management
Large storage capacity options
Easy installation process
What We Don't Like
Slightly higher price point
Third-party heatsink recommended for heavy use
#TOP 5

Samsung 9100 PRO PCIe 5.0 SSD

MZ-VAP4T0B/AM
Black
Samsung 9100 PRO PCIe 5.0 SSD Cover
Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 4TB, PCIe 5.0x4 M.2 2280, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 14,800MB/s, Best for AI Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations (MZ VAP4T0B/AM)

The Samsung 9100 PRO SSD offers blazing-fast PCIe 5.0 speeds, allowing you to handle large files and intense gaming sessions with ease. With sequential read and write speeds reaching up to 14,800MB/s and 13,400MB/s, you'll experience quicker load times and smoother workflows. Its impressive random read/write speeds ensure that multitasking, running AI applications, and gaming happen without lag or delays. Whether you're working on a laptop or desktop, this SSD provides up to 8TB of storage, making it perfect for video editing, gaming, and creative projects. With the Samsung 9100 PRO SSD, your system performance gets a serious boost, letting you work and play faster than ever.

What We Like
Blazing fast transfer speeds
Large 4TB storage capacity
Solid build quality
Future-proof PCIe 5.0 interface
Runs cool under heavy load
What We Don't Like
Premium price point
Sequential speeds depend on hardware
#TOP 6

SAMSUNG 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB

MZ-V9S2T0B/AM
Black
2 TB
SAMSUNG 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB Cover
Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen 4x4, Gen 5x2 M.2 2280, Speeds Up-to 7,250 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S2T0B/AM)

The SAMSUNG 990 EVO Plus offers cutting-edge speed and capacity for your computing needs. With impressive read speeds reaching up to 7,250 MB/s, transferring large files becomes a breeze, allowing you to finish tasks quickly. Its 2TB storage ensures you have ample space for your important data. The drive is designed with advanced thermal management, helping to keep it cool during intense usage, which maintains performance and battery life. Additionally, it supports the latest PCIe technology, providing you with enhanced bandwidth and processing power for a smoother experience.

What We Like
Fast performance
Easy installation
Large storage capacity
Reliable and stable
Good value
What We Don't Like
Requires compatible motherboard for max speed
Longevity lower than pro models
#TOP 7

WD_BLACK SN850X Gaming SSD

WDS200T2X0E
Black
WD_BLACK SN850X Gaming SSD Cover
WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD - M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds, Up to 6,300 MB/s write speeds, Gaming Expansion, High Performance Internal Solid State Drive - WDS200T2X0E

The WD_BLACK Gaming SSD offers insane speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s, giving you a significant edge in gaming performance with super-fast load times. With capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, you can store multiple large games without worry. The WD_BLACK Dashboard allows you to monitor your drive's health, control RGB settings, and activate Game Mode 2.0 automatically. Additionally, features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management enhance your gaming experience, optimizing performance and reliability.

What We Like
Blazing fast Gen4 speeds
Excellent reliability and stability
Easy installation and setup
High capacity options
Great for gaming and multitasking
What We Don't Like
Can run warm without heatsink
Premium price

Crucial T710 PCIe Gen5 1TB SSD

CT1000T710SSD8-01
Black
Crucial T710 PCIe Gen5 1TB SSD Cover
Crucial T710 PCIe Gen5 NVMe 1TB SSD, Up to 14,900 MB/s, Laptop & Desktop Compatible (PC), for Creatives and Hardcore Gamers, Solid State Drive, Includes 1Mo Adobe CC – CT1000T710SSD8-01

The Crucial T710 Gen5 SSD offers blazing-fast performance thanks to its PCIe 5.0 interface, letting you enjoy quick game load times, fast bootups, and smooth multitasking. With a generous 1TB capacity, you have plenty of space to store large AAA games, 8K videos, and creative files without slowing down. This SSD is designed to perfectly fit Intel 13th/14th Gen and AMD Ryzen 7000 systems with its M.2 2280 Gen5 slot compatibility, ensuring seamless integration. Plus, its heatsink-friendly design means you can keep the drive cool during intense gaming or heavy workloads, maintaining top performance when you need it most.

What We Like
Blazing fast read/write speeds
High reliability and stability
Easy installation process
Effective with good heatsink
Great for gaming and OS
What We Don't Like
High temperatures under load
Stock heatsink may be inadequate
#TOP 9

SanDisk WD_Black SN8100 2TB PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD

WDS200T1X0M
Black
SanDisk WD_Black SN8100 2TB PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD Cover
WD_Black SN8100 2TB NVMe SSD - PCIe 5.0x4, M.2 2280, Up to 14,900MB/s Read Speed, up to 11,000MB/s Write Speed, Best for AI Applications, Gaming, and Video Editing - WDS200T1X0M

The SanDisk WD_Black PCIe 5 SSD offers a major boost in speed and efficiency for gamers and content creators. With PCIe Gen 5 technology, you get faster data transfer that makes loading games and editing videos smoother than ever. Its incredible read speeds up to 14,900MB/s and write speeds up to 14,000MB/s help you handle large files quickly, saving you time. Plus, it uses power more efficiently, meaning your system stays cooler and uses less energy without sacrificing performance. This SSD is a great choice if you want both speed and reliability in your PC storage.

What We Like
Blazing fast read/write speeds
Excellent heat management
Easy installation process
Future-proof PCIe Gen 5 support
Reliable performance for gaming
What We Don't Like
High price point
Requires PCIe Gen 5 motherboard
#TOP 10

WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD

WDS200T2XHE
Black
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Cover
WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink - M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds, Up to 6,300 MB/s write speeds, Works with Playstation 5, High Performance Internal Solid State Drive - WDS200T2XHE

The WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD is the perfect choice for gamers looking to upgrade their PlayStation 5 storage. With insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, a range of capacities from 1TB to 4TB, and a range of features like Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management, this drive is sure to take your gaming performance to the next level. Plus, it comes with a heatsink and a 5-year or 600 TBW warranty for added peace of mind.

What We Like
Ultra-fast read/write speeds
Excellent thermal management
Easy installation
Ideal for gaming and PS5
Reliable, high-quality build
What We Don't Like
No mounting screw included
Buying Guide Image

The Right Internal SSD for You

We all know the importance of Solid-State Drives (SSDs). Many people are shifting from the use of hard disk drives (HDDs) to SSDs. Therefore, you need to know the Pros and Cons of SSD before you buy it. Let’s have a look at the best Internal SSDs buying guide:

What are Solid-State Drives

An SSD is an advanced storage device that is faster and reliable. In modern computers, the SSD has widely replaced HDD. SSDs are both internal and external. We are concerned with internal SSDs. Internal SSDs have three primary forms. They are different based on the type of hardware and the aim of using a computer. The right SSD for building a new PC is Internal M.2 or 2.5-inch SSD. But if you are upgrading the older hardware, a 2.5-inch SSD is a good fit.

Factors to Consider Before Buying an Internal SSD

To buy a perfect and optimized SSD for your computer, consider these factors. Here they are:

Bus Type

Bus type may be SATA or PSI Express. SATA stands for Serial ATA. It is the first interface that you need to use to connect SSD to the motherboard. SATA is a good fit, but it shows a problem when it comes in terms of games.

For gamers and streamers, the PCI Express is a good choice.

Capacity

Choosing a capacity for an SSD mainly depends on the use of the computer. If you have simple document work, then 256GB is enough. For games and high-duty work, 1TB is enough.

Endurance Rating

Endurance rating is essential, and it is measured in terabyte written (TBW). It is a point once reached; the data fails to write into the drive. Usually, it is between 100TBW and 3,500TBW, depending on the company. Therefore, it is necessary to look for the endurance rating of an SSD.

FAQs

Is an internal SSD faster than an external?

Yes. Even a cheaper and low-quality SSD is faster than any other expensive HDD counterpart. SSDs provide faster loading speed and boot time. It improves the overall performance of the computer.

How long do internal SSDs last?

The life of an SSD is around ten years that is usually longer than any other HDDs. An SSD doesn’t create heat. You need to know that heat is the main reason for the failure of many hard drives. Therefore, SSD is more reliable and shock-resistant. Thus, it lasts longer.

Is it wrong to have your SSD full?

You need to have free space for better performance. When your SSD is occupied fully, the performance reduces dramatically.

Is an internal SSD more efficient than HDD?

Yes. It is more efficient because of less power consumption. As an SSD produces less heat, the performance is excellent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are internal SSDs better?

Yes, internal SSDs are generally better than external SSDs in terms of speed. Internal SSDs have faster reading and writing speeds because they are not limited by factors that can affect external SSDs. However, with modern interfaces like USB 3.0, you can achieve comparable performance with both types of drives.

2. What is the difference between internal hard drive and internal SSD?

The main difference between an internal hard drive (HDD) and an internal SSD is the technology used to store data. SSDs use newer technology and store data on instantly-accessible memory chips, which results in faster speeds, quieter operation, smaller size, greater durability, and lower energy consumption. On the other hand, HDDs are cheaper, offer larger storage capacities, and may have easier data recovery options if damaged.

3. Is a 256GB SSD better than a 1TB hard drive?

A 256GB SSD is better than a 1TB hard drive if you prioritize faster write and read speeds. However, the trade-off is that the storage space will be significantly smaller. If you are a pro gamer or a video editor, a 256GB SSD may be sufficient. The advantage of a 1TB hard drive is its larger storage capacity.

4. Is a 512GB SSD enough?

In most cases, a 512GB SSD provides enough storage space for regular laptop activities. It can hold over 60,000 photos, approximately 1,200 videos, and around 400 applications. For most laptop users, a 512GB SSD should offer sufficient space.

5. How long do internal SSDs last?

Internal SSDs generally have a long lifespan due to their lack of moving parts. Most SSDs can last over five years, with some more durable units exceeding ten years. The actual lifespan of an SSD depends on how frequently data is written to it, so it can vary based on usage.

6. Is there any downside to an external SSD?

While external SSDs offer the advantage of portability, there are a few downsides to consider. One is the higher cost compared to external HDDs. Another is that SSDs are generally more susceptible to data loss than HDDs. It's important to handle external SSDs with care to minimize the risk of data loss.

7. Why are internal SSDs so expensive?

Internal SSDs can be more expensive due to the use of higher quality NAND flash chips and the complexity of their assembly. The NAND flash chips used in computers are typically of higher quality and cost more than those used in USB flash drives and SD cards. Additionally, the integration of the drive's controller and firmware adds to the cost.

8. Can I turn an external SSD into internal?

In many cases, it is possible to convert an external SSD into an internal one. However, compatibility with your setup is important, so you should check if the external SSD will work internally. If it is compatible, you can carefully take apart the enclosure of the external drive to use the SSD internally.

9. What is the lifespan of an SSD?

SSDs have a long lifespan due to their lack of moving parts. Most SSDs can last over five years, and some more durable units can exceed ten years. However, the actual lifespan of an SSD depends on factors like how frequently data is written to it. Regular usage patterns can be used to estimate the lifespan of an SSD.

Editor's Notes

During our internal ssd research, we found 24 internal ssd products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 774,478 customer reviews through our big data system to write the internal ssd list. We found that most customers choose internal ssd with an average price of $261.47.

The internal ssd are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of internal ssd, including WD_BLACK, Crucial, Samsung, Sandisk. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Internal SSD Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand WD_BLACK Crucial Crucial Samsung Samsung Samsung WD_BLACK Crucial Sandisk Sandisk
Digital Storage Capacity 2 TB 500 GB 1 TB 4 TB 4 TB 2 TB 2000 GB 1 TB 2 TB 2000 GB
Hard Disk Interface NVMe Solid State Solid State Solid State Solid State Solid State PCIE x 4 Solid State PCIE x 4 NVMe
Connectivity Technology PCIe Gen4 NVMe NVMe SATA USB NVMe, PCle 5.0 x4 NVMe NVMe NVMe NVMe, PCIe Gen5 NVMe
Special Feature PCIe Gen4 NVMe Backward Compatible Data Recovery Service AES 256-bit hardware encryption, IP65 Rated, PCIe NVMe Technology, Read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, Rugged durability enduring up to 9.8 ft drop Hardware Encryption, Innovative Power & Thermal Control Backward Compatible WD_BLACK Dashboard Backward Compatible ADVANCED RELIABILITY., BREAKNECK SPEEDS, EXPERIENCE PCIe Gen 5 Heatsink
Hard Disk Description Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Hard Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive
Compatible Devices Desktop, Handheld Gaming Console, Laptop Desktop, Gaming Console, Workstation This drive is compatible with desktops and laptops that accept 2.5" 7mm SATA drives Laptop, Mac, PC Desktop, Laptop Desktop, Laptop Laptop, Motherboards Desktop, Laptop, Workstation Desktop, Laptop Desktop PC, Playstation 5
Installation Type Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Solid State Drive Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Solid State Drive
Color Black Black Black Information Not Available Black Black Black Black Black Black
Hard Disk Form Factor 22 Millimeters 2.5 Inches - 2.5 Inches 22 Millimeters 2.5 Inches 2.5 Centimeters 22 Millimeters 22 Millimeters 0.87 Inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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