I have a powerful PC, but my current SSD is holding it back and I want to replace it. I'm looking for a reliable 512GB drive costing no more than $100, or roughly 350 zł. It will mainly be used for games such as Call of Duty and Forza, along with game development. I'm open to either SATA or M.2, depending on what offers the best value and is compatible with my system.
3 Answers
I’d be cautious with the Kingston NV3 because some versions use QLC flash. For gaming it can still work, but a drive with TLC NAND is generally preferable for heavier game-development workloads. You could also look at reputable used-hardware stores for a 512GB NVMe drive; prices can be much lower, though you should check its health and warranty before buying.
That budget may be difficult in Poland right now. 500GB SATA SSDs are usually around 360 zł, while M.2 models often start closer to 420 zł. A Patriot P300 around 409–440 zł may be one of the more affordable new options.
Keep in mind that the P300 is an M.2 drive, so make sure your motherboard has an available compatible slot.
For a PCIe Gen 3 M.2 drive, the Patriot P300 is worth checking out. If your motherboard supports PCIe Gen 4, the Kingston NV3 is another option, although prices may be higher than your target budget.
Used drives can be a good deal, but check the total writes, power-on hours, and remaining health before relying on one for important projects.