This category covers SSDs that use the SATA interface, made for desktop PCs, laptops, NAS units and servers. Our range has over 400 models, including Transcend, SanDisk, ADATA, Samsung and Toshiba. A SATA SSD is the simplest way to speed up an older computer that still runs from a hard drive.
How to choose a SATA SSD
Capacity. The sizes most often seen in our range are 256 GB, 480 GB, 512 GB, 960 GB, 1 TB and 2 TB. 256 GB is enough for Windows and a handful of programs, but 512 GB or 1 TB leaves much more room. Keep roughly a tenth of the drive free, because a nearly full SSD slows down.
Interface and format. Most drives in our range use Serial ATA III, which also works with older SATA versions at lower speeds. Before buying, check that your device has a free SATA connector and space for a 2.5-inch drive. A few listings use other interfaces such as USB or PCI Express, so read the specification of the specific model.
Speed. SATA III tops out at around 550 MB/s, so read speeds in our range are mostly 500-560 MB/s and write speeds 400-530 MB/s. For office work and browsing, the difference between models is barely noticeable. Write speed matters more if you regularly copy large files.
Memory type and endurance. Cheaper drives generally use TLC memory, while MLC (for example Samsung V-NAND MLC) is usually more durable. The mean time between failures (MTBF) listed for drives in our range runs from 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 hours, but this is a statistical estimate, not a guarantee. For heavy writing, look at the total bytes written (TBW) rating when the manufacturer gives one.
Intended use. Some drives are meant for PCs and laptops, others for servers, workstations or NAS units. Many models operate at 0-70 °C, while some have a narrower range such as 5-50 °C. If the drive is going into a server or NAS, choose a model whose description names that use.
Brands we carry
- Samsung: makes its own memory and controllers, and its drive specifications often list V-NAND memory.
- SanDisk and Western Digital: SanDisk is known for memory cards and USB drives, Western Digital for hard drives, and Western Digital acquired SanDisk in 2016.
- Toshiba: credited with inventing NAND flash memory, so its SSDs come from a company with long experience in the field.
- Transcend, ADATA and Silicon Power: Taiwanese manufacturers whose products include memory modules, memory cards and SSDs.
- Seagate: one of the best-known hard drive makers, which also offers SSDs.
- Patriot Memory: a US company known for RAM modules and components aimed at gamers.
- Dell: a server and workstation maker whose SSDs are mostly bought as spare parts for Dell systems.
Also in our range: 2-POWER and Intenso.
SATA SSD frequently asked questions
Is a SATA SSD still worth buying?
Yes, if your computer has no M.2 NVMe slot or a slow hard drive is holding it back. Replacing a hard drive with a SATA SSD makes startup and program loading noticeably quicker. For a new computer with an NVMe slot, an NVMe drive is often the better fit.
What is the difference between a SATA SSD and an NVMe SSD?
A SATA SSD uses the SATA interface, which tops out at around 550 MB/s, while NVMe drives connect through PCI Express and can be several times faster. SATA drives are mostly 2.5-inch and suit many older computers. The two types are not interchangeable, because the connectors and slots differ.
How much capacity do I need in a SATA SSD?
For an office or home computer, 512 GB is usually enough. If you keep many games, photos or videos, 1 TB or 2 TB is more comfortable. A 256 GB drive works as a system drive with a modest set of programs, and it is wise to leave some space free.
Will a SATA SSD fit my laptop?
It will if your laptop has a 2.5-inch SATA drive bay, where a hard drive is usually fitted now. Check the laptop's specification or the model and thickness of the current drive. Some thin laptops have only an M.2 slot, and those need an M.2 drive instead.
