Best Budget Gen 5 SSD: Fast, Cool & Affordable
▼ Summary
– PC Gamer previously avoided recommending PCIe 5.0 SSDs due to high cost, heat issues, and minimal gaming benefits over Gen 4 drives.
– The WD Black SN8100 and Crucial P510 are now recommended, with the P510 offering strong performance at a lower price.
– The Crucial P510 delivers sequential read/write speeds of 10,973 MB/s and 9,394 MB/s, surpassing Gen 4 drives but lagging behind some PCIe 5.0 competitors.
– Priced at $183 for 2TB, the P510 is a cost-effective option for tasks like file transfers, video editing, or 3D modeling, with potential for further price drops.
– The P510 uses a Phison E31T controller and Micron 276-Layer TLC NAND for efficient cooling and performance, making it the best budget PCIe 5.0 SSD despite not leading in 4K workloads.
Finding an affordable yet powerful PCIe 5.0 SSD no longer feels like chasing a unicorn. While early models came with sky-high prices and overheating issues, recent releases have changed the game. Two standout options now dominate the conversation: the blazing-fast but premium WD Black SN8100 and the surprisingly budget-friendly Crucial P510.
The Crucial P510 delivers impressive performance without breaking the bank. Sequential read and write speeds clock in at 10,973 MB/s and 9,394 MB/s, respectively, far outpacing any Gen 4 drive. Though it doesn’t quite match the absolute fastest Gen 5 competitors, its 2TB model currently sells for just $183, making it a smart choice for upgraders who want next-gen speeds without overspending.
What makes the P510 particularly appealing is its cool and efficient operation, thanks to the Phison E31T controller and Micron’s 276-layer TLC NAND. Unlike some early PCIe 5.0 drives that throttle under heavy loads, this one maintains consistent performance, making it ideal for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or large file transfers.
That said, it isn’t perfect. Random 4K workloads aren’t its strong suit, and it lags slightly behind pricier alternatives in raw speed. But for most users, the trade-off is worth it, especially when considering the significant price advantage.
If you’re still on the fence, remember that PCIe 4.0 SSDs remain excellent options for those prioritizing value over cutting-edge performance. But if you’re ready to step into Gen 5 territory without emptying your wallet, the Crucial P510 stands out as the best budget-friendly choice available today.
For those seeking alternatives, our full SSD buying guide includes everything from high-end beasts to wallet-friendly workhorses, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every need and budget.
(Source: PCGAMER)
