I'm considering experimenting with Linux by dual booting it on a cheap SSD since Windows 10 is reaching the end of its life. However, I'm trying to figure out how low I can safely go with the price of a >500 GB SATA SSD without risking data loss. I want to save space for games but don't want to spend too much on an SSD in case my Linux experience isn't great. I've had bad experiences with low-quality brands, so I'm looking for recommendations on what price is acceptable without compromising too much on reliability. Any suggestions for brands or price ranges I should consider?
2 Answers
For a decent balance between cost and reliability, I wouldn't go below $30-$50 for a SATA SSD. At this price point, you can still find reliable options with DRAM caches. If you’re in the U.S., check out the Samsung 870 Evo—it's on sale for about $55 at Best Buy. While it’s a bit pricier, it’s from a reputable brand. You might also find cheaper 500GB SSDs from brands like Kingston, Sandisk, TeamGroup, Adata, Crucial, and Western Digital, but I'd recommend sticking to a minimum of $30 to avoid some of the lower-quality models that use QLC technology.
Make sure to check the warranty and user reviews while picking an SSD. Availability often varies by location, so it might be helpful to browse local tech stores or online platforms. This way, you can find the best options that fit your budget.
Absolutely! Warranties can give you peace of mind, especially with cheaper products.
Great tip on the Samsung! I’ve had issues with cheaper brands before, so it’s good to know which ones to avoid.