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2.5-inch SSDsHelping You Find the Best
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2.5-inch SSDsHelping You Find the Best
13 Best 2.5-Inch SSDs  [Tested and Reviewed]

13 Best 2.5-Inch SSDs [Tested and Reviewed]

A 2.5-inch SSD is a quick, convenient upgrade for older laptops and an easy way to expand storage in a desktop PC with a SATA slot. Compared to a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD) is faster, lighter, and more durable. However, SSDs are also more expensive so you’ll want to make sure you’re buying the right one for your needs. To help you out, we’ve ranked the best 2.5-inch SSDs based on our extensive testing.

Our list features the 13 top-selling 2.5-inch SSDs from popular manufacturers such as Crucial and Samsung. We tested each drive in four key areas and then assigned a final score based on its performance. Generally speaking, you’ll want an SSD that’s not only fast but also not prone to drive failure from overheating. (We’ll provide more tips on finding the right SSD here, as well.)
Last updated 03/27/2024
Daniel Alnasir
Expert
Biomedical Engineer / IT specialist
Daniel Alnasir

Daniel is an IT expert and bioengineer. He gained a background in computer hardware and electronics while serving as an IT Helpdesk Technician for three years. After completing his Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering, he began working in biotechnology. He currently does research on heart surgery and invents new electronic devices.

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Syuri Taguchi
Guide
Former PC sales; Head of PC Products at mybest
Syuri Taguchi

After graduating from the University of Tsukuba's School of Art and Design, she joined a major home electronic retailer to put her knowledge of digital devices and software to use. Not only was she tasked with selling computers, she was responsible for sales of tech equipment such as printers and routers, proposing internet and communication services, and was in charge of forming comprehensive contracts for computer sales. Putting sales quotas and profits aside, she made it her goal to put the customers' needs first and match them with the best products. In 2022, she joined mybest as the head guide of PC equipment. Utilizing her experience and knowledge of various digital devices from major manufacturers such as Fujitsu and Dell, she is committed to producing articles that help connect users to the best PC products.

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How We Tested the Products

We gathered the 13 bestselling 2.5-Inch SSDs and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Sequential Access Speed

    1
    Sequential Access Speed

    Our gold standard for an SSD with excellent sequential access speeds is a maximum output of 600MB/s via SATA3.

  2. Random Access Speed

    2
    Random Access Speed

    Our gold standard for an SSD with excellent random access speeds is a maximum output of 600MB/s via SATA3.

  3. Processing Speed of Applications

    3
    Processing Speed of Applications

    We based our standard for processing speed on the PCMark 10 set of tests. The theoretical maximum score a SATA SSD can achieve here is 1,500.

  4. Internal Temperature

    4
    Internal Temperature

    An SSD should be able to operate while maintaining a steady operating temperature, as overheating can cause the drive to fail.

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.

Table of Contents

What is the Purpose of a 2.5-Inch SSD?

Wondering if your laptop or desktop could benefit from a 2.5-inch SSD? Below, we’ll explain the reasons why you might need one.

It Gives Your Laptop a Speed Boost

It Gives Your Laptop a Speed Boost

2.5-inch SSDs are an excellent option for laptop storage. It’ll boost read/writing speeds, help your system run faster, and resist most physical shocks (very important if you’re not very careful with your laptop!). Of course, you’ll have to back up your data before swapping to a new SSD, but transfer times are relatively quick so you’ll be up and running in no time.


There are a couple of things to keep in mind. First, 2.5-inch SSDs are more expensive than HDDs, so you’ll need to budget accordingly. Plus, you’ll have to check your laptop to see which interface it supports, as there are multiple standards like M.2 and mSATA.

It’s a Good Way to Fill Spare SATA Slots in a Custom-Made PC

It’s a Good Way to Fill Spare SATA Slots in a Custom-Made PC

If you have a desktop PC, you may be able to take advantage of the benefits of a 2.5-inch SSD if you have a spare SATA slot in your motherboard. While an NVMe-connected M.2 SSD may be faster, a 2.5-inch SSD is still a good way to expand storage if you can swing it.

How to Choose 2.5-Inch SSDs

Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best 2.5-Inch SSDs.

1

Pay Attention to the Read/Write Speeds

Consider an SSD’s read/write speeds if you want your system to boot quickly and handle data transfers with ease.

There Are Two Types of Read and Write Speeds: Sequential and Random

There Are Two Types of Read and Write Speeds: Sequential and Random

Sequential access refers to the continuous reading and writing of data. It’s commonly used for editing and transferring large video files.


Random access refers to the reading and writing of individual, disparate data. It’s commonly used for everyday applications and games.

Both Are Important So Choose an Overall Fast SSD

Both Are Important So Choose an Overall Fast SSD

There are drives available that are dedicated to either sequential access or random access. However, it’s rare that you’ll ever need to exclusively rely on one over the other.

 
For example, sequential access is useful for reading and writing lengthy video files, while random access is essential for working with shorter clips. To make the entire video editing process as seamless as possible, you’d want an SSD with fast sequential and random access speeds.

2

An SSD That Doesn’t Overheat Is Less Prone to Malfunctioning

To reduce the risk of drive failure, look for a 2.5-inch SSD that maintains a low enough internal temperature to keep it running smoothly.

The Risk of a Data Crash Increases Beyond 70℃

The Risk of a Data Crash Increases Beyond 70℃

Naturally, when an SSD is used continuously its internal temperature gradually rises. If that temperature exceeds 158℉, the drive will likely overheat and then crash

All of the SSDs We Tested Didn’t Exceed 50℃

All of the SSDs We Tested Didn’t Exceed 50℃

Fortunately, all of the 2.5-inch SSDs we tested didn’t pose a high risk of overheating, as none of them exceeded 122. (Originally, SATA connections were capable of maintaining lower temperatures than the NVMe connections used in M.2 SSDs.)


Still, if you’re particular about this spec, you can sort the drives in our ranking by “internal temperature” and find the ones with the highest scores (lowest temperatures).

3

If You’re Not Picky, Choose a Drive Based on Capacity and Price

If You’re Not Picky, Choose a Drive Based on Capacity and Price

All of the 2.5-inch SSDs we tested fared well when it came to basic performance, so we recommend choosing based on how much storage space you need and how much money you’re willing to spend.

 
SSDs with more free space are less likely to slow down, so look for a drive capacity that’s a notch above the minimum amount you need. While you’ll want to do your best to buy within your means, don’t opt for a super cheap SSD, either – there are counterfeit SSDs that may erase your data without permission in order to free up space.

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13 Best 2.5-Inch SSDs Ranking

Here are the best 2.5-Inch SSDs we found after testing them. We ranked them after weighting each of our testing specs.
Recommended
Price Performance
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mybest Score
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Key features
Main Score
Details
Sequential Access Speed
Random Access Speed
Processing Speed of Various Applications
Low Internal Temperature
Nominal Maximum Read Speed
Nominal Maximum Write Speed
Connection Type
Cell Type
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)
Sequential Access Read Speed
Sequential Access Write Speed
Random Access Read Speed
Random Access Write Speed
Maximum Temperature Under High Load
Range of Capacities
Manufacturer Warranty Period
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
1

SAMSUNG

SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State DriveMZ-77E1T0B/AM

SAMSUNG SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive 1
4.61

mybest's Top Choice: Boasts Fast Performance Without Overheating

4.45
4.50
4.71
5.00

560 MB/s

530 MB/s

SATA

TLC

600

559.96MB/s

525.64MB/s

387.47MB/s

333.99MB/s

37℃

1TB

60 months

2

Lexar

NS100 1TB 2.5” SATA III Internal SSDLNS100-1TRBNA

Lexar NS100 1TB 2.5” SATA III Internal SSD 1
4.56

This SSD Stands Out for Its Well-Balanced Performance

4.43
4.51
4.58
5.00

550MB/s

unknown

SATA

TLC

512

560.88MB/s

512.21MB/s

394.76MB/s

334.27MB/s

35℃

1TB

36 months

3

Crucial

MX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5 Inch Internal SSDCT1000MX500SSD1

Crucial MX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5 Inch Internal SSD 1
4.53

This SSD Boasts Fast Speeds and Low Operating Temperature

4.43
4.51
4.51
5.00

560MB/s

510MB/s

SATA

TLC

360

561.05MB/s

511.98MB/s

395.81MB/s

335.07MB/s

36℃

1TB

60 months

4

Patriot Memory

Patriot P210 1TB Internal SSD - SATA 3 2.5" - Solid State DriveP210S1TB25

Patriot Memory Patriot P210 1TB Internal SSD - SATA 3 2.5" - Solid State Drive 1
4.52

A Speedy, Affordable Drive That Can Withstand the Rigors of Daily Use

4.45
4.32
4.59
5.00

520MB/s

430MB/s

SATA

unknown

480

562.07MB/s

517.43MB/s

357.72MB/s

272.09MB/s

37℃

1TB

36 months

4

fanxiang

S102 Pro SATA III Internal SSD

fanxiang S102 Pro SATA III Internal SSD 1
4.52

Excellent Read Speeds But Below Average Write Speeds

4.44
4.38
4.58
4.85

560 MB/s

500 MB/s

SATA

SLC

600

561.41MB/s

515.82MB/s

386.66MB/s

285.66MB/s

43℃

1TB

36 months

6

SAMSUNG

870 QVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5" Internal Solid State DriveMZ-77Q1T0B

SAMSUNG 870 QVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5" Internal Solid State Drive 1
4.51

An Expensive SSD With Just-Above Average Speeds

4.45
4.48
4.48
4.95

560MB/s

530MB/s

SATA

MLC

360

559.30MB/s

526.40MB/s

364.22MB/s

334.27MB/s

41℃

1TB

36 months

7

Western Digital

1TB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive SSDWDS100T3B0A

Western Digital 1TB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive SSD 1
4.50

Fast Random Access Speeds Plus Low Operating Temperatures

4.45
4.45
4.46
5.00

560MB/s

520MB/s

SATA

unknown

400

558.07MB/s

527.77MB/s

354.68MB/s

326.16MB/s

32℃

1TB

60 months

8

FanXiang

S101 1TB SSD 2.5 inches SATA III 6Gb/s Internal Solid State Hard Drive up to 550MB/s

FanXiang S101 1TB SSD 2.5 inches SATA III 6Gb/s Internal Solid State Hard Drive up to 550MB/s 1
4.44

Slow Random Access Speeds But Otherwise Suitable For Daily Use

4.41
4.22
4.51
4.80

550 MB/s

500 MB/s

SATA

TLC

unknown

558.11MB/s

503.11MB/s

285.47MB/s

299.69MB/s

44℃

1TB

60 months

9

PNY

CS900 1TB 3D NAND 2.5" SATA III Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)SSD7CS900-1TB-RB

PNY CS900 1TB 3D NAND 2.5" SATA III Internal Solid State Drive (SSD) 1
4.42

An Average SSD Hindered By Slow Random Read Speeds

4.41
4.17
4.47
5.00

535MB/s

515MB/s

SATA

unknown

unknown

560.37MB/s

502.18MB/s

254.53MB/s

310.76MB/s

37℃

1TB

36 months

10

Team Group

CX2 SSDT253X6001T0C101

Team Group CX2 SSD 1
4.40
Currently unavailable

A Budget SSD That Underperforms In Key Areas (Except Temperature Control)

4.40
4.41
4.26
5.00

540 MB/s

490 MB/s

SATA

SLC

800

541.98MB/s

514.65MB/s

327.71MB/s

334.40MB/s

33℃

1TB

36 months

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1
Top Choice 2.5-Inch SSDs
No.1 in Sequential Access Speed
No.1 in Processing Speed of Various Applications
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State DriveMZ-77E1T0B/AM

mybest Score
4.61
Sequential Access Speed
4.45
Random Access Speed
4.50
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.71
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
View on Amazon
SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive 1
Lowest price
$144.99
High
Lowest price
$144.99
High
Sequential Access Read Speed559.96MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed525.64MB/s
Random Access Read Speed387.47MB/s
Random Access Write Speed333.99MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load37℃

mybest's Top Choice: Boasts Fast Performance Without Overheating

What we loved

  • Blazing fast performance
  • Maintains a low internal temperature
  • Excellent read/write speeds

What we didn't love

  • Nothing in particular.

Our pick for the best 2.5-inch SSD overall is the Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5 Internal Solid State Drive. It’s peppy and capable of reading and writing data at great speeds – all without running too hot.


This SSD advertises sequential read speeds of up to 560MB/s and 530MB/s for sequential writes. In our tests, it hit 559.96MB/s and 525.64MB/s, respectively. Meanwhile, the average speed for random reads was 387.47MB/s and 333.99MB/s for random writes. These rate at or near the top in either category.


However, it really shines when it comes to everyday computing. Using the PCMark10 to benchmark performance, the Samsung 870 blew the rest of the competition away and was three times faster than the slowest SSD in our tests. The maximum operating temperature was 98.6℉. which is the average of all the drives we tested.


Price-wise, this SSD falls somewhere in the middle but it’s more affordable than the Samsung 870 QVO further down this list. We’d recommend stretching your budget a bit further if possible if you want a reliable drive that’ll be able to handle just about anything you throw at it.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed560 MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed530 MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeTLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)600
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period60 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

Lexar
NS100 1TB 2.5” SATA III Internal SSDLNS100-1TRBNA

mybest Score
4.56
Sequential Access Speed
4.43
Random Access Speed
4.51
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.58
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
Lowest price
$82.99
High Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed560.88MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed512.21MB/s
Random Access Read Speed394.76MB/s
Random Access Write Speed334.27MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load35℃

This SSD Stands Out for Its Well-Balanced Performance

What we loved

  • Very low internal temperature
  • Fast read and write speeds
  • Excellent all-around performance

What we didn't love

  • Nothing in particular.

The Lexar NS100 1TB 2.5” SATA III Internal SSD may not be as fast as the Samsung 870 EVO above, but it still showcases a well-balanced performance.


It clocked an average sequential read speed of 560.88MB/s, and an average sequential write speed of 512.21MB/s. Meanwhile, the average random read and write speeds were 394.76MB/s and 335.07MB/s, respectively – both of which are slightly higher than the Samsung 870 EVO’s random read/write speeds. Its processing speeds are in the top-tier, and a maximum operating temperature of 95°F is one of the lowest we recorded in our tests.


You’ll pay a little more for this 2.5-inch SSD than others on our list, but it’s still on the more affordable side. This all-rounder should satisfy anyone who needs a drive that’ll be able to keep up with their workloads or games.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed550MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speedunknown
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeTLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)512
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.3
No.1 in Random Access Speed
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

Crucial
MX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5 Inch Internal SSDCT1000MX500SSD1

mybest Score
4.53
Sequential Access Speed
4.43
Random Access Speed
4.51
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.51
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
Lowest price
$104.99
High Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed561.05MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed511.98MB/s
Random Access Read Speed395.81MB/s
Random Access Write Speed335.07MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load36℃

This SSD Boasts Fast Speeds and Low Operating Temperature

What we loved

  • Very fast random read/write speeds
  • Low, stable operating temperature
  • Above-average performance speeds

What we didn't love

  • Nothing in particular.

The Crucial MX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5 Inch Internal SSD has some of the fastest random read and write speeds we recorded in our tests. The average random read was 395.81MB/s, while the average random write speed was 335.79MB/s. Paired with sequential read and write speeds of 561.05MB/s and 511.98MB/s, respectively, this is another well-balanced SSD


The processing speed of various apps measured by PCMark10 was slightly above average. The highest operating temperature we recorded was 96.8℉, indicating a low risk of disk failure due to overheating.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed560MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed510MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeTLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)360
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period60 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.4
No.1 in Sequential Access Speed
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

Patriot Memory
Patriot P210 1TB Internal SSD - SATA 3 2.5" - Solid State DriveP210S1TB25

mybest Score
4.52
Sequential Access Speed
4.45
Random Access Speed
4.32
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.59
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
Lowest price
$55.99
Low Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed562.07MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed517.43MB/s
Random Access Read Speed357.72MB/s
Random Access Write Speed272.09MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load37℃

A Speedy, Affordable Drive That Can Withstand the Rigors of Daily Use

What we loved

  • Faster-than-advertised sequential read/write speeds
  • Impressive processing speeds
  • Among the least expensive SSDs in our ranking

What we didn't love

  • Random read/write speeds aren’t quite as high

The Patriot P210 1TB Internal SSD - SATA 3 2.5" Solid State Drive has an average sequential read speed of 562.07MB/s and an average sequential write speed of 517.43MB/s. This is well beyond what Patriot claims (520MB/s and 430MB/s, respectively).


Its average random read and write speeds are among the lowest in our tests, but they’re still quite satisfactory at 357.72MB/s (read) and 272.09MB/s (write). On the flip side, processing speeds significantly outpaced most of its competitors. A maximum operating temperature of 98.6℉ (the average among the drives we ranked) indicates a low risk of heat-related drive failure.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed520MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed430MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell Typeunknown
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)480
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.4

fanxiang
S102 Pro SATA III Internal SSD

mybest Score
4.52
Sequential Access Speed
4.44
Random Access Speed
4.38
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.58
Low Internal Temperature
4.85
Lowest price
$63.99
Low Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed561.41MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed515.82MB/s
Random Access Read Speed386.66MB/s
Random Access Write Speed285.66MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load43℃

Excellent Read Speeds But Below Average Write Speeds

What we loved

  • Superb sequential and random read speeds
  • Blazing fast performance speeds

What we didn't love

  • Sequential and random write speeds below average
  • Higher temperature than most drives we tested

The FanXiang S102 Pro 1TB 2.5" SSD Internal Hard Drive SATA III 6Gb/s has excellent sequential and random read speeds (561.41MB/s and 386.66MB/s). However, its average write speeds fall below average at 515.82MB/s (sequential) and 285.66MB/s (random). Despite that imbalance, it still performs well when it comes to everyday computing tasks, although it runs slightly warmer than most of the SSDs we tested (109.4℉).

Nominal Maximum Read Speed560 MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed500 MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeSLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)600
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.6
No.1 in Sequential Access Speed

SAMSUNG
870 QVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5" Internal Solid State DriveMZ-77Q1T0B

mybest Score
4.51
Sequential Access Speed
4.45
Random Access Speed
4.48
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.48
Low Internal Temperature
4.95
Lowest price
$115.11
High Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed559.30MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed526.40MB/s
Random Access Read Speed364.22MB/s
Random Access Write Speed334.27MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load41℃

An Expensive SSD With Just-Above Average Speeds

What we loved

  • Balanced read and write speeds
  • Performs well for multiple computing tasks

What we didn't love

  • Not as good a value as the Samsung 870 EVO
  • Runs warmer than other drives we tested

The Samsung 870 QVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5" Internal Solid State Drive recorded above average read, write, and performance speeds in our tests. Although it doesn’t outpace the Samsung 870 EVO that sits at the top of our list, we think it’s an otherwise balanced drive that can withstand daily computing tasks. However, it’s the most expensive SSD on our list and tends to run warmer than its competitors with a max recorded temperature of 105.8℉.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed560MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed530MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeMLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)360
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.7
No.1 in Sequential Access Speed
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

Western Digital
1TB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive SSDWDS100T3B0A

mybest Score
4.50
Sequential Access Speed
4.45
Random Access Speed
4.45
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.46
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
Lowest price
$84.99
High Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed558.07MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed527.77MB/s
Random Access Read Speed354.68MB/s
Random Access Write Speed326.16MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load32℃

Fast Random Access Speeds Plus Low Operating Temperatures

What we loved

  • Super fast random access speeds
  • The lowest temperature we recorded in our tests

What we didn't love

  • Overall performance speeds aren’t anything to write home about

The Western Digital 1TB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive SSD is an excellent choice if you prioritize random access read and write speeds, which we recorded at 354.68MB/s and 326.16MB/s on average, respectively. It also has the among the lowest operating temperatures we measured (89.6℉). Other than that, the sequential read/write speeds and processing speeds are just okay.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed560MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed520MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell Typeunknown
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW) 400
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period60 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.8

FanXiang
S101 1TB SSD 2.5 inches SATA III 6Gb/s Internal Solid State Hard Drive up to 550MB/s

mybest Score
4.44
Sequential Access Speed
4.41
Random Access Speed
4.22
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.51
Low Internal Temperature
4.80
Lowest price
$69.00
Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed558.11MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed503.11MB/s
Random Access Read Speed285.47MB/s
Random Access Write Speed299.69MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load44℃

Slow Random Access Speeds But Otherwise Suitable For Daily Use

What we loved

  • Very good sequential read/write speeds
  • Above average processing speeds

What we didn't love

  • Poor random access read/write speeds
  • Higher temperature than most drives we tested

The Fanxiang S101 1TB SSD 2.5 inches SATA III 6Gb/s Internal Solid State Hard Drive boasts very good sequential read and write speeds (558.11MB/s and 503.11MB/s on average, respectively) but its random access speeds are comparatively paltry at 285.47MB/s (read speed) and 299.69MB/s (write speed). Otherwise, it’s capable of handling everyday computing tasks at above-average speeds, although a 111.2℉ max operating temperature is among the highest in our tests.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed550 MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed500 MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeTLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)unknown
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period60 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.9
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

PNY
CS900 1TB 3D NAND 2.5" SATA III Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)SSD7CS900-1TB-RB

mybest Score
4.42
Sequential Access Speed
4.41
Random Access Speed
4.17
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.47
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
Lowest price
$64.99
Low Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed560.37MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed502.18MB/s
Random Access Read Speed254.53MB/s
Random Access Write Speed310.76MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load37℃

An Average SSD Hindered By Slow Random Read Speeds

What we loved

  • Good sequential read/write speeds
  • Decent random write speeds
  • Above-average performance speeds

What we didn't love

  • Poor random read speeds

The PNY CS900 1TB 3D NAND 2.5" SATA III Internal Solid State Drive is quite average, but its recorded random read speed (254.53MB/s) is an obvious blind spot. On the other hand, processing speeds are above average on the PCMark 10 scale. A max internal temperature of 98.6°F will ensure a virtually non-existent risk of drive failure due to overheating.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed535MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed515MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell Typeunknown
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)unknown
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.10
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

Team Group
CX2 SSDT253X6001T0C101

mybest Score
4.40
Sequential Access Speed
4.40
Random Access Speed
4.41
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.26
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
CX2 SSD 1
CX2 SSD 2
CX2 SSD 3
CX2 SSD 4
Sequential Access Read Speed541.98MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed514.65MB/s
Random Access Read Speed327.71MB/s
Random Access Write Speed334.40MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load33℃

A Budget SSD That Underperforms In Key Areas (Except Temperature Control)

What we loved

  • Budget-friendly price
  • Very low maximum operating temperature

What we didn't love

  • Slow sequential speeds
  • Subpar performance speeds

The Team Group CX2 2.5" 1TB SATA III 3D NAND Internal Solid State Drive is one of the cheapest drives on our list. However, it suffers from slow sequential access speeds on average (541.98MB/s read speed and 514.65MB/s write speed) as well as subpar processing speeds. On the flip side, a max temperature of 91.4℉ is among the lowest we measured, so you won’t have to worry about overheating at all.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed540 MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed490 MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeSLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)800
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.10
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

Team Group
QX SSDT253X7001T0C101

mybest Score
4.40
Sequential Access Speed
4.40
Random Access Speed
4.16
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.44
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
QX SSD 1
QX SSD 2
QX SSD 3
QX SSD 4
Reference price
$56.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$56.99
Low Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed552.66MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed502.64MB/s
Random Access Read Speed253.39MB/s
Random Access Write Speed309.23MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load28℃

An Inexpensive SSD That Won’t Overheat But Underwhelming Otherwise

What we loved

  • Very cheap
  • Low operating temperature

What we didn't love

  • Performance-wise, you get what you pay for

The Team Group QX 2.5" 1TB SATA III 3D NAND Internal Solid State Drive is the least expensive of the SSDs we tested. It also boasts the lowest temperature we recorded (82.4°F), so overheating won’t be a worry here. While its performance is decent for the price, its overall speeds lag behind its pricier and more sophisticated rivals.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed530MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed470MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeSLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)300
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.12
No.1 in Low Internal Temperature

SanDisk
SanDisk SSD PLUS 2.5" 1TB SATA III SLC Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)SDSSDA-1T00-G27

mybest Score
4.07
Sequential Access Speed
4.33
Random Access Speed
3.67
Processing Speed of Various Applications
4.03
Low Internal Temperature
5.00
Lowest price
$69.99
Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed554.27MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed452.99MB/s
Random Access Read Speed126.83MB/s
Random Access Write Speed105.85MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load40℃

Slow Random Access Speeds Set The Tone For This Underperforming SSD

What we loved

  • Low risk of overheating
  • Affordable mid-range price

What we didn't love

  • Slow speeds (especially random access)

The SanDisk SSD PLUS 2.5" 1TB SATA III TLC Internal Solid State Drive is a mid-priced SSD hobbled by slow speeds, especially when it comes to random access (126.83MB/s read speed and 105.85MB/s write speed), which we believe is the reason behind its overall lackluster performance. On the plus side, it shouldn’t overheat.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed535MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed350MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeSLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)unknown
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all
No.13

Western Digital
WD Green SATA SSD 2.5”WDS100T3G0A

mybest Score
4.02
Sequential Access Speed
4.34
Random Access Speed
3.67
Processing Speed of Various Applications
3.98
Low Internal Temperature
4.60
Lowest price
$74.99
Mid
Sequential Access Read Speed554.11MB/s
Sequential Access Write Speed463.53MB/s
Random Access Read Speed126.71MB/s
Random Access Write Speed107.27MB/s
Maximum Temperature Under High Load48℃

A Slow SSD That Also Runs Hotter Than Any Other Option We Tested

What we loved

  • Affordable
  • Sequential read/write speeds not too bad

What we didn't love

  • Struggles with tasks that require random access
  • Poor performance speeds
  • Highest temperature among drives we tested

The Western Digital 1TB WD Green SATA SSD recorded average random read speeds of 126.71MB/s and average random write speeds of 107.27MB/s, which are both well below the baseline of the drives we tested. Processing speeds for various applications measured by PCMark10 were also significantly below average. A max operating temperature of 118.4℉ is the highest we recorded – although we should note that the risk of this drive overheating is still rather low.

 
Meanwhile, we recorded an average sequential read speed of 554.11MB/s, and an average sequential write speed of 463.53MB/s. Those aren’t terrible, but this SSD will struggle with common tasks that call upon random access, like saving photos.

Nominal Maximum Read Speed545MB/s
Nominal Maximum Write Speed545MB/s
Connection TypeSATA
Cell TypeSLC
DRAM-less
Total Bytes Written (TBW)unknown
Range of Capacities1TB
Manufacturer Warranty Period36 months
Includes Cloning/Data Migration Software
View all

How We Tested the 2.5-Inch SSDs

2.5-Inch SSDs Evaluation

In searching for the best 2.5-inch SSDs, we looked for products with fast overall speeds (sequential and random access, as well as general computing tasks) that were unlikely to fail due to overheating. Our top picks are among the most popular SSDs at Amazon, Target, and other major retailers.

 
We evaluated each 2.5-inch SSD in the following categories:


  • Sequential Access Speed
  • Random Access Speed
  • Processing Speed of Applications
  • Internal Temperature

Products we tested

  1. CrucialMX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5 Inch Internal SSDCT1000MX500SSD1
  2. FanXiangS101 1TB SSD 2.5 inches SATA III 6Gb/s Internal Solid State Hard Drive up to 550MB/s
  3. LexarNS100 1TB 2.5” SATA III Internal SSDLNS100-1TRBNA
  4. PNYCS900 1TB 3D NAND 2.5" SATA III Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)SSD7CS900-1TB-RB
  5. Patriot MemoryPatriot P210 1TB Internal SSD - SATA 3 2.5" - Solid State DriveP210S1TB25
  6. SAMSUNGSAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State DriveMZ-77E1T0B/AM
  7. SAMSUNG870 QVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5" Internal Solid State DriveMZ-77Q1T0B
  8. SanDiskSanDisk SSD PLUS 2.5" 1TB SATA III SLC Internal Solid State Drive (SSD)SDSSDA-1T00-G27
  9. Team GroupCX2 SSDT253X6001T0C101
  10. Team GroupQX SSDT253X7001T0C101
  11. Western Digital1TB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive SSDWDS100T3B0A
  12. Western DigitalWD Green SATA SSD 2.5”WDS100T3G0A
  13. fanxiangS102 Pro SATA III Internal SSD
1

Sequential Access Speed

Sequential Access Speed

Our gold standard for an SSD with excellent sequential access speeds is a maximum output of 600MB/s via SATA3.

Scoring Method

We used Crystal Disk Mark benchmark software to measure sequential access values. Read and write speeds for each SSD were measured thrice, and the average values were evaluated on a 5:5 ratio.

Test Conditions

Each evaluation took place using the following PC:
  • OS: Windows 11 Pro

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-12700KF

  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti

  • Memory: 32GB DDR5

2

Random Access Speed

Random Access Speed

Our gold standard for an SSD with excellent random access speeds is a maximum output of 600MB/s via SATA3.

Scoring Method

We used Crystal Disk Mark benchmark software to measure random access values. Read and write speeds for each SSD were measured thrice, and the average values were evaluated on a 5:5 ratio.

Test Conditions

Each evaluation took place using the following PC:
  • OS: Windows 11 Pro

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-12700KF

  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti

  • Memory: 32GB DDR5

3

Processing Speed of Applications

Processing Speed of Applications

We based our standard for processing speed on the PCMark 10 set of tests. The theoretical maximum score a SATA SSD can achieve here is 1,500.

Scoring Method

We used PCMark 10 to measure benchmark scores, assuming the use of various apps. Higher PC Mark 10 scores yielded stronger ratings from us.

Test Conditions

Each evaluation took place using the following PC:
  • OS: Windows 11 Pro

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-12700KF

  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti

  • Memory: 32GB DDR5

4

Internal Temperature

Internal Temperature

An SSD should be able to operate while maintaining a steady operating temperature, as overheating can cause the drive to fail.

Scoring Method

We used a specialty software that can measure the temperature of an SSD and logged the results from startup to the final benchmark test. Considering the risk of failure, the upper limit is 40°C/ 104°F. SSDs with lower internal temperatures scored higher.

Test Conditions

Each evaluation took place using the following PC:
  • OS: Windows 11 Pro

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-12700KF

  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti

  • Memory: 32GB DDR5

Top 5 2.5-Inch SSDs

No. 1: SAMSUNGSAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State DriveMZ-77E1T0B/AM

No. 2: LexarNS100 1TB 2.5” SATA III Internal SSDLNS100-1TRBNA

No. 3: CrucialMX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5 Inch Internal SSDCT1000MX500SSD1

No. 4: Patriot MemoryPatriot P210 1TB Internal SSD - SATA 3 2.5" - Solid State DriveP210S1TB25

No. 4: fanxiangS102 Pro SATA III Internal SSD

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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