3 Best SSDs Under $100 for Fast, Reliable Storage on a Budget
Looking for a quick, dependable SSD that won’t break the bank? You’re in luck. Budget-friendly options like the Lexar ES3, which booms past 1000MB/s for fast file transfers and broad device compatibility, the durable ORICO 512GB with its solid performance up to 460MB/s, and the enterprise-grade Water Panther 800GB SAS drive prove that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing speed or reliability. But which one suits your needs best? Let’s find out.
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD
- High-speed Data Transfer: Lexar external SSD ES3 supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write to transfer files fast for more efficient work....
- Wide Compatibility: Lexar Portable SSD ES3 compatibility with iPhone 15 series (Not supported on iPhone 14 and older models), Android mobile devices, laptops,...
- On The Go: Lexar external solid state drive ES3's thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g and is only 10.5mm thick, making it smaller than a card...
If you want a cheap external SSD that’s still fast, check out the Lexar ES3 1TB. It uses USB 3.2 Gen 2, so it can reach speeds of up to 1050MB/s for reading and 1000MB/s for writing. That means you can move big files, videos, or backups in just seconds. The drive has a slim, sturdy metal case that weighs only 42 grams and is 10.5mm thick. It’s small enough to fit easily in your pocket. You can use it with iPhone 15, Android phones, laptops, and game consoles. Just remember, your device needs to support USB 3.2 Gen 2 to get the full speed. This SSD is good for anyone who wants a quick, reliable, and portable storage device without spending too much money.
Best For: People who want an affordable, fast external SSD that works with new devices and is easy to carry around.
Pros:
- Very fast with USB 3.2 Gen 2, reaching over 1000MB/s.
- Compact and lightweight metal design, easy to carry.
- Has DataShield encryption to keep your files safe.
Cons:
- Speed depends on whether your device supports USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Not compatible with iPhone 14 or older iPhones.
- It doesn’t have Magsafe or wireless options.
ORICO 512GB External SSD with USB C&A Cable
- Strong Magnetic: Attach your cell phone with magnetic attraction, don't worry about falling off. The package includes a magnetic attraction ring, which can...
- Expand Capacity: This external solid state drive could plug and play for devices, it can solve your insufficient memory problem in a moment, ORICO portable SSD...
- Share Idea in A Flash: Ultra speed transfer speed of 460MB/s helps you record all kinds of details in your life. Instant editing without delay, record your...
Choosing the right external SSD can be tricky. You want it to be fast, durable, and easy to use. The ORICO 512GB External SSD makes this easy. It has a strong metal body made from aluminum alloy. This helps keep it cool during big file transfers. Its small size, just over 2 inches long, makes it easy to carry everywhere. It works well with new devices like the iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max and tablets, thanks to the USB C&A 2-in-1 cable. It can transfer data at speeds up to 460MB/s. This makes it simple to move large files or edit 4K videos. It is a good choice for both work and fun.
Best For: Anyone who needs a tough, fast, and portable external SSD. It’s great for professionals and casual users who want extra storage for multimedia files.
Pros:
- Its metal body is strong and helps it stay cool.
- Supports fast speeds up to 460MB/s for quick files transfers.
- Works with iPhones, tablets, and computers, using the included cable.
Cons:
- The magnetic ring does not fit with iPhones that have Lightning ports.
- It is slightly bigger than some tiny options, so it might not fit in the tiniest pockets.
- It does not have extra features like encryption or extra rugged protection.
This SSD is a good choice if you want a durable, quick, and travel-friendly storage device. It works well with most modern gadgets and helps you store big files easily.
Water Panther 800GB SAS 12Gbps Enterprise SSD in 2.5-inch Tray
- Compatible in Dell servers with 2.5in chassis: R440 R640 R260 R660 R760 R860
- Equipped with a Dell Gen. 14 (14G) hot-swap HDD caddy tray (DXD9H)
- Designed for 24x7 availability in high data workload environments
The Water Panther 800GB SAS 12Gbps Enterprise SSD fits in a 2.5-inch tray. It is a good choice for busy enterprise servers. It works well with Dell servers like the R440, R640, or R860. This SSD is made for Dell’s 2.5-inch slots and can be put into different trays, including hot-swap caddies. This makes it easy to install and swap out when needed.
The SSD offers 800GB of storage and supports fast connections like 14G, 15G, and 16G. This means it can handle big workloads with reliability. It is built to run all day, every day. It’s good for data centers and important applications that need steady, dependable storage. Using this SSD can save time and reduce server problems.
Best For: IT staff and data center teams who want reliable, fast storage for Dell servers in busy environments.
Pros:
- Reliable and durable for continuous use.
- Works with many Dell servers and trays, including hot-swap models.
- Supports several connection types for easy setup.
Cons:
- Its 15mm height might need a matching tray.
- Only 800GB storage may be small for some large data centers.
- Made for Dell hardware, so it might not work with other brands.
This SSD gives you a fast, reliable way to store data. It is easy to install and works well with Dell servers. If you need a dependable storage piece that fits into your Dell setup, this could be a good choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing SSDs Under $100
When selecting an SSD under $100, you’ll want to evaluate your storage capacity needs—are 256GB enough, or do you need more space for big files or games? Data transfer speeds matter too, especially if you transfer large files regularly; a faster SSD saves you time and frustration. Finally, make sure it’s compatible with your device, secure for your data, and easy to carry around if portability is important, so you avoid surprises when setting up or using your new drive.
Storage Capacity Needs
Thinking about your storage needs is the first step when choosing an affordable SSD. You should think about the types of files you save daily. Do you keep big photos, 4K videos, or just documents? The size of those files helps you decide how much space you need now and in the future. If you plan to add data often, a 512GB or 1TB drive might save you from needing to upgrade soon. Check your device to see what maximum storage it can support to avoid compatibility issues. SSDs under $100 usually range from 128GB to 1TB. Pick a size that matches your current needs and expected growth. Balancing storage size with features makes sure your drive is useful and dependable for your tasks.
Data Transfer Speed
Choosing an SSD with the right data transfer speed helps your device run smoothly. This speed shows how fast files move between your device and the SSD. It’s measured in MB/s. For everyday tasks or small files, speeds of 300–500MB/s work well. But if you work with big media files or back up large folders, look for drives that support 500MB/s or more. This saves you time and keeps things moving fast.
USB 3.2 Gen 2 can reach speeds up to 1050MB/s, which is great for quick file transfers. USB 3.0 maxes out around 500MB/s. Always check if your device supports these speeds. Using a fast drive with a compatible port makes sure you get the best speed possible.
Device Compatibility
To make sure your SSD works with your device, check a few simple things. First, look at the connection type. Does your device use USB-C, USB 3.2, Thunderbolt, or SATA? The SSD should match that connection. Next, check the size and shape. Does it fit in your device’s slot or case? For example, a 2.5-inch drive works in many laptops, while M.2 drives are small and fit into tiny slots. Also, see if your computer’s operating system can support the SSD. Windows, macOS, and Android usually support most drives, but it’s good to double-check. Sometimes, you may need an adapter or cable to connect the SSD if the ports don’t match. Finally, look at the instructions from the manufacturer or user manual. They often list which drives are compatible. Following these steps helps you pick the right SSD that works smoothly with your device.
Security Features
Security features are important when you buy a cheap SSD, especially if you store sensitive files. Many budget drives have hardware encryption, like AES-256. This encryption acts like a lock on your data, keeping it safe. You can also use software options like password protection or encrypted containers. These add extra security when you move files or store them on other devices. Some drives can erase data completely when you want to delete it. This stops old data from being found later.
Many SSDs support security standards like TCG Opal or Microsoft eDrive. These help protect sensitive or business data. Also, manufacturers often release firmware updates. These updates fix security problems and help keep your data safe. Even budget SSDs can have good security features.
Portable Design Ease
When choosing a portable SSD that fits your budget, pick one that is easy to carry and tough enough to handle daily use. Look for models that are thin and light—ideally less than 100 grams—so they slip into your pocket or bag without feeling bulky. Strong materials like metal or tough plastic help the drive resist shocks and bumps. Select a size similar to a credit card or small phone, which makes it simple to take with you everywhere. Many portable SSDs have built-in cables or are small enough to fit in your pocket, so you don’t need extra accessories. Easy-to-use connections such as USB-C or USB 3.0/3.2 make setting up quick and simple. Overall, a good portable SSD is small, sturdy, and easy to carry, making it a reliable companion for your files on the go.
Price and Value
If you want to buy an SSD for less than $100, you need to find a good balance. Look for a drive that offers enough storage for your files. Decide if you need a higher capacity or faster speeds. Most best options have read and write speeds over 500MB/s, making your computer feel faster. Check the price-to-performance ratio. Sometimes, spending a little more can give you a more durable drive or faster speeds. Think about what matters most to you—more space or quicker access to data. Features like a metal case can help your SSD last longer. Also, some drives have encryption to keep your data safe, without costing extra. Lastly, verify that the SSD works with your computer. This helps you get the best value for your $100.
FAQs
Do Budget SSDS Impact Gaming Performance or Load Times?
Budget SSDs can improve your gaming performance and load times, making gameplay smoother and reducing waiting periods. While they might not match high-end drives, they still offer markedly better speeds than traditional HDDs, enhancing your overall gaming experience.
Which SSDS Offer the Best Durability for Frequent Travel or Usage?
You should look for SSDs with high endurance ratings like the Samsung T7 or SanDisk Extreme Portable, as they’re designed for durability, withstand frequent travel, and keep your data safe during rough handling or environmental stresses.
Are There Noise or Heat Concerns With Affordable SSD Models?
You might notice minimal noise since SSDs have no moving parts, and heat is generally low during normal use. However, high workloads could cause slight heating, so guarantee proper airflow to maintain peak performance and longevity.
How Do Warranty Durations Compare Among Inexpensive SSD Brands?
You’ll find warranty durations vary by brand, with some offering three-year coverage and others up to five years. Check each model’s details, but generally, inexpensive SSDs come with solid warranties, giving you decent protection on your investment.
Can These SSDS Be Easily Upgraded or Replaced in Laptops?
Upgrading or replacing SSDs in laptops depends on the model. Most laptops let you swap out drives easily if you have access, but some ultrabooks may have soldered storage. Check your laptop’s specifications to be sure.
DK is a technology expert who specializes in AI tools, software, and tech gadgets. He writes for How to Tech Info, providing detailed reviews and practical guides. DK helps readers discover the best AI applications, navigate new software, and choose the right tech gadgets.
Last update on 2025-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
