Best SSD in India - Reviews and Comparison 2021

It is an obvious need to ensure that motherboard of your computer has a slot for the SSD interface (we will discuss that in detail) and also the size of the SSD should be such that fits into the PC Chassis.

SSD is essentially meant to speed up the information processing inside a system. Further, it is used for reading and writing data and maintaining the stored data in a permanent state much like the traditional hard disk drives (HDD). However, the HDDs are much slower due to its inherent mechanism of reading and writing the data. Based on moving parts, it has a read/write head that goes back and forth for gathering the data.

SSDs are much faster as it uses the NAND flash memory, and have so much more room for storage than the HDD. Having said that, even with the SSDs, we recommend going for capacity above 500 GB.

There are different interfaces available for connecting the SSD to your computer. Some of the most common interfaces include:

• PCIe and NVMe

• SATA

The overall performance of the SSD is largely dependent upon these interfaces. Let us look into them one by one.

PCIe and NVMe is a high bandwidth and low latency interface which is normally used to connect high-performance peripherals like graphics cards, network card etc. It is also an ideal component to suit your need for super-fast communications between the SSD and your RAM or CPU. SSDs that runs on PCIe is based on the Nonvolatile Memory Express standard (NVMe), which has higher input-output per second (IOPS) and low latency.

SATA refers to Serial Advanced Technology Attachment which was crafted specifically for storage and is a quite popular interface for SSD. Although cheaper than the above mentioned NVMe-PCIe, it is also slower in comparison. It has a speed of up to 6 GBit/s or about 600 MB per second. It is still usable if you cannot afford to have a NAVME-PCIe interface due to cost constraints.

While most budgeted SSD offers a space of more than 500 GB or above, usually the SSD has a range that starts from 250 GB and goes up to 1 TB. Some super pricey models offer the storage capacity of 2 TB as well. However, we recommend not to look for models at either of the extremes but choose best value models that offer enough space to meet regular storage needs at a decent price. If you still have the need for some high-end models with a lot more storage than the usual, you can pick from some really good options offered by Samsung.

Form factor refers to the physical configuration and size and of a device. So simply put, the form factor is the size and shape in which SSD’s are available. The form factor is further classified into four:

• M.2 SSD

• 2.5 inch SSD

• Add-in Card

• U.2 SSD

M.2 SSD has now become a standard for slim laptops and is compatible for and could be found on a desktop motherboard these days Many high-quality motherboards have multiple M.2 slots, so the drives could run in RAID too.

Standard size M.2 drives are mostly 22mm wide and 80mm long, There are some other size variations (both long and short) are available. The size of the drive can be identified by a five-digit number mentioned in their names, while the first two digits represent the width the others indicates the length of the drive. The most common size being M.2 Type-2280. Laptops are mostly compatible with only one size, many desktop motherboards bear anchor points for a range of drive sizes.

U.2 SSDs are thicker than 2.5-inch hard drives and SSDs, but is also more expensive and has higher capacity than M.2 drives. This appears very similar to the 2.5 SATA drive and is typically useful for servers which have a lot of bay space.

2.5-inch Serial ATA (SATA) is the most commonly used types and these drives resemble with laptop hard drives uses the SATA cables and interface to connect to your computer. This drive is compatible with laptops or desktops that has a 2.5-inch hard drive bay and a SATA connector,

SSD Add-in Card (AIC): 

These are potentially the fastest among all. These operate with the help of PCI Express bus interface and can be plugged into slots used for peripherals like graphic cards etc. which also implies that they can only be plugged in a desktop in a PCIe x4 or x16 slot. Alongside that, the larger surface area allows better cooling as moving the data rapidly may result in a heat-up often.

The drives also follow the general rule of power consumption. Bigger the size, more the power consumption and vice versa. This consideration, however, gets more important if you are buying a drive for a laptop and require the device to retain the battery for long and earn some extra unplugged run time. So, you should be looking at a sweet spot of a decent capacity drive with less drainage of battery.

The component that processes the reads and writes of a drive and does all the inherent and vital function relating to the performance and maintenance is called the controller of the drive. It’s literally the processor of your drive like a processor is to your PC, and much like PC’s, more cores are better for high end and high storage drives.

Honestly speaking, the type of storage memory is not a controllable factor on the buyers' end, nor much of attention is required to be paid unless you want to have a broader understanding of some intricate details. However, we have discussed some of the common and not-so-common storage memory types just to enhance your understanding.

• Single-Level Cell (SLC) basically stores a single bit of data per cell and it was aflash memory storage initially. Though considerably fast and efficient for its time, this memory flash type is long obsolete amid new tech advancements. It is not even as denser compared to its new-age successors and is also a bit expensive. 

• Multi-Layer Cell (MLC) struck in after the SLC and became the new favourite due to its capability of storing more data and having a compact shape. In spite of being slower, it was being widely used for a long time to raise the writing speed. Many of such drives feature a small amount of faster SLC cache, that works as a write buffer. Even the MLC is now replaced by a more advanced successor called triple-level cell (TLC) flash memory. 

• Triple-Level Cell (TLC) flash is commonly used in consumer SSDs and despite being slower, it offers more storage space then the MLC with shape going even sleeker. The price of the TLC also remains affordable. Most present-day TLC drives employ some sort of caching mechanisms to increase its speed as the TLC could not go faster than a hard drive without a buffer. 

• Quad-Level Cell (QLC) flash has become a more obvious choice in the current times and the most advance output as yet of the flash memory evolution. These spacious drives are less-expensive and bear the limitation of slow writing speed and low endurance.

Flash memory has a limited life span which means that any storage cell when written (filled with data) a certain number of times, it will stop holding data beyond that. This is called a drive’s rated endurance which is rated by the manufacturers in terms of total terabytes written (TBW), or drive writes per day (DWPD). Though endurance or durability are not the factors to worry about if you are into just general-purpose computing as the average life span of an SSD is at least 3-5 years unless it is been put to some heavy-duty and 24/7 usage on servers.

Since SSD works with a flash memory, wherein the flash in SSDs is arranged in a single planar (layer), and now with further advancement, drive makers began stacking storage cells on top of each other in layers. Stacking more and more layers over each other has a significance as this leads to more dense, spacious, and less-expensive drives. There are drives that have 96-layer NAND, 128-layer NAND and even a 160-layer NAND, which apart from the compressed size, are also much economical. It is commonly known as 3D Flash or 3D NAND.

SSD (Solid State Drive), which came in as a replacement of the traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD). It is significantly faster. Older hard-disk storage technologies run slower, which often makes your computer run slower than it should. SSD speed up computers significantly due to their low read-access times and fast throughputs.

NAND flash is a type of nonvolatile memory that is accessed like a mass storage device (e.g. a hard drive). Being a type of electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), NAND flash is programmed, erased, and reprogrammed in large blocks.

A motherboard is a space that features all the interlinked circuits and is alternatively referred to as the main printed circuit board (PCB) that lies within the general-purpose computers.

Brandwidth is referred to the amount of data transmitted over an internet connection in a given amount of time. Bandwidth is often confused with internet speed, however, it is actually the volume of information that can be transmitted via an internet connection. It is calculated in Mbps (megabits per second).

Latency is described as the ability of a computer network to process a very high volume of data messages with minimal delay (lag). These networks are designed to support the operations that require near-real-time access to rapidly changing data.

The usage of SSD started in high-performance and core technology areas where the drives with extremely low access time and high throughput became a requirement and hence justified the high cost. But they have become a more common and accepted option for low-cost laptops and computers. And owing to this, it has also enhanced the scope of usage of SSD across industry verticals. The SSDs are widely used in areas elaborated below.

Business: Companies having and dealing in a huge amount of data rely on SSDs, as quick access time and overall file-transfer speeds through SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) are critical for an organization. It's normally one of the routines and vital operation for enterprises.

Gaming: Gaming computers have always tried to surpass and enhance the pressed limits of the computing technology, and has justified relatively expensive equipment due to superior gaming experience. SSD vitally supports the storage aspect of such computers as modern games are all about constantly loading and writing files, consuming the cache and overall storage. 

Mobility: SSDs have low power requirements, thus it contributes to better battery life in laptops and tablets. SSDs are also shock resistant which reduces the chances of data loss when mobile devices are mistakingly dropped.

Servers: Enterprise servers need SSDs to get fast reads and writes in order to properly serve their client PCs.

• Transferring data to a new hard drive

If you want to change your existing drive and install a new one, it is highly recommended to use the data migration (cloning) software for the file transfer.

• Installing

Avoid touching the connectors on the drive. Keep the drive secure and also do not open the SSD else you will use the warranty provided on the product.

• Pre-installation phase

Shut down your computer/laptop and unplug the power cable. 

• Refer manual

Refer your system manual for detailed installation instructions. 

Locate the storage bay.

Refer to the manual to get the exact location for placing the SSD. 

Some storage bays could be larger for a standard size SSD to fit in.

In that case, you may need a 2.5-inch to 3.5-inch converter to put in the SSD properly.

If you have located an appropriate bay, remove your old drive from there and disconnect any cables and brackets attached.

• Plug the SSD into your computer/laptop

• Reassemble your desktop

• Power on your computer - SSD Installed!

Crucial has brought in this powerhouse SSD that has almost all the great things to encourage you to stop using a hard disk. It is a blazing fast peripheral and gives your rig the speed it should have! With a 500 GB storage, this SSD hits just the right notes every time.

With a SATA interface and a 2.5-inch form factor, this can be an ideal fit for any hardware platform including PC, Mac or Unix. Having excellent data reliability, it has a reading speed of 510MB/s and it uses a 3D NAND flash memory which makes it faster and energy efficient all at the same time.

An AES 256-bit hardware-based encryption ensures watertight data security and the thermal protection technology of the SSD keeps a check on the SSD temperature which tends to rise after rapid data transfers.

There is also a software that is provided from the companies' end to help you manage the nuances of the drive and install firmware updates for enhanced drive performance. This SSD has a 5 years manufacturers' warranty.

Western Digital is a veteran American data company which has proven its mettle in manufacturing world-class storage-related peripherals, and this 480 GB SATA based SSD could be the perfect specimen of what an ideal SSD looks like.

By the virtue of being an SSD, the drive uses flash memory and has no moving parts which make it a lot safer than the traditional hard drive. In addition to that, the manufacturer also assures the Mean Time Before Failure (MTBF) to be of around 1.7 million hours which is quite a claim and promises durability.

The 3D NAND flash memory makes the SSD significantly power-efficient and particularly suitable for laptops that cannot afford the batteries draining frequently. Also, with a SATA III interface, the reading and writing capabilities of the drive reach 545 MB/s while the data transfer speeds up to 6GB/sec.

The WD SSD Dashboard application aids in managing the data storage in the hard disk and also monitors vital factors such as SSD temperature fluctuations. The WD Acronis True Image software, on the other hand, helps to take a backup from your PC to your SSD at a blazing fast speed. It is available in M.2 2280 and 2.5”/7mm form factors to be suitable for PCs and laptops alike.

This Shock-resistant and WD F.I.T. LabTM certified SSD has a 3 years manufacturers warranty.

Crucial has yet another robust SSD offering at a slightly higher price.

This 480 GB SSD has a Sequential 128KB Read and Write speed of 540MB/s and 500MB/s respectively. The 3D NAND Flash memory types make it a compact and energy-efficient SSD with a lot more space than a Single-Level Cell (SLC) flash memory.

Highly compatible with laptops and computers, it uses a 2.5Inch,/SATA 6 Gb/s interface, ATA modes which help in retrieving and faster data reading to improve the overall performance of your PC/laptop and enhances the responsiveness.

Acting as a great catalyst in saving the battery of your laptop, it is also 45-times more energy efficient than a hard drive. The Crucial SSD bears a 3-year limited warranty.

Kingston is another well-known brand for storage-related IT peripherals and has gained significant goodwill over the years with its top-notch deliveries. The SSD has great synergy between enough storage space and affordable pricing. If you are someone who’s new to the world of SSD and is looking to upgrade from a hard drive, then this SSD is one for you.

Additionally, this SSD is accompanied by your traditional HDD for storage, it’s memory type is TLC which provides ample storage space at an affordable price while having a decent pace of data transfer. However, this could feel a little slower than the SSDs having single Level Cell memory and also, it is less durable.

It is available in multiple storage variants of 120 GB, 240 GB and 960 GB, and the interface is SATA III standard. moreover, it has read speed up to 550 MB/sec while the write speed goes up to 500 MB/sec.

Its solid body makes it capable of enduring a fall and absorbing shocks, while a 2.5-inch form factor and a slim profile make it suitable for both laptop and PC. It has a 5 years manufacturers warranty against defects.

Samsung has earned quite a reputation in the high capacity SSD segment over 1 TB and this SSD tells you why. With sequential reading and writing speed up to 550/520 MB/s respectively, it has a SATA interface and an exceptional speed of transferring the data.

It has a form factor of 2.5 inches which makes it compatible with most modern-day computers and laptops. Also, the SSD is well suited for gaming and business use. This SSD is available in capacities up to 4 TB.

The Samsung Magician Software aids in advanced Drive Management which helps you in keeping your drive up to date, monitor drive heating and enhance the performance. This Samsung SSD has a 3-year manufacturer warranty.

This is another Western digital SSD on the list for all the right reasons. It meets regular computing and storage needs at an affordable price. This is an ideal fit for your laptop and uses a NAND flash memory as we have seen in all the models in the comparison.

The  Single Level Cell (SLC) technology is the core element that helps to keep this SSD in the budget segment which is both cheap and reliable. It gives a 3GB/s reading speed and a 3.8 GB/s writing speed.

With a Mean Time Before Failure (MTBF) that's around 1.75 million hours, its unlikely to be damaged any soon, even upon frequent usage. With compatibility ranging to both PC and laptop, the SSD has a total warranty of 3 years.

Alongside this, a western digital proprietary software and Acronis software helps to monitor the variables and important indices of SSD such as temperature after every data transfer cycle.

The only external SSD on the list, this could be a better option to use as a supplement of an internal SSD if there is lesser space in an internal SSD in your PC chassis. However, despite being an external drive, it does not differ in performance from in-bound drives. The only requirement here is that you should have a slot on tour motherboard for the SSD interface.

The salient features of a BarraCuda Fast SSD is reliable performance and lightning-fast speed ranging to 540 MB/s for file transfers. This portable SSD features a green LED light that indicates that the SSD is operating. It has a sleek and minimal design.

This SSD is conveniently compatible with external Xbox or PlayStation and has room for media storage including photos, files, and videos with a 500 GB capacity.

It can be seamlessly connected to a Mac laptop, mini PC, or desktop computer via a reversible USB-C cable and enable rapid data transfer and storage. It also has software to keep the backup secure which is called sync plus.

It bears 3 years manufacturers warranty. Checkout reviews and comparison of best computer monitors, best wireless mouse, best pen drives, best 15 inch laptops in India.