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- Best overall: ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD
- Best budget: Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD
- Best premium: Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
- Best for gaming: WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
- The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD suits upgrades for computers with a 2.5-inch SATA bay.
- The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD is a faster option for compatible M.2 systems, with sequential reads up to 7,400 MB/s.
- The Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD and Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD are simple choices for SATA storage upgrades.
- The WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD and Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD suit fast gaming and workstation builds.
The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD is a practical upgrade for a computer with a 2.5-inch SATA bay, while the ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD delivers up to 7,400 MB/s sequential reads in a compatible system. I researched and compared specifications, reviews and owner feedback to build this Black Friday 2026 guide around fit, speed, capacity and everyday value.
The key difference is the interface: the MX500 uses SATA, while the LEGEND 960 uses PCIe Gen4 NVMe. That means the fastest option is not automatically the right one for every computer. Below, each pick names its form factor and strongest use case so you can shortlist a drive before checking the fit and current listing. My pick for most people depends first on the computer’s available connection.
How We Picked
- Interface and fit: we separated 2.5-inch SATA drives from M.2 NVMe drives because the connectors are not interchangeable.
- Published speed: we compared manufacturer-listed sequential read and write speeds, with the understanding that actual performance varies by system and workload.
- Capacity and endurance: we considered available capacities and published terabytes written ratings where specified.
- Use case: we weighed suitability for everyday upgrades, gaming, content creation and large file transfers.
- Ownership context: we reviewed warranty information, product specifications and owner feedback without claiming research.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Sequential read (MB/s) | Interface | Form factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD | 2.5-inch SATA upgrades | 560 | SATA 6Gb/s | 2.5-inch |
| ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD | Fast PCIe Gen4 storage | 7,400 | PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe | M.2 2280 |
| Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD | Reliable SATA storage | 560 | SATA 6Gb/s | 2.5-inch |
| WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PC gaming | 7,300 | PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe | M.2 2280 |
| Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | Premium Gen4 performance | 7,450 | PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe | M.2 2280 |
| Kingston KC3000 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | Large files and demanding workloads | 7,000 | PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe | M.2 2280 |
| Crucial P3 Plus 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | Everyday NVMe upgrades | 5,000 | PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe | M.2 2280 |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD
The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD is the best straightforward SATA upgrade for desktop and laptop owners with a 2.5-inch bay, delivering sequential reads up to 560 MB/s.
Best for: 2.5-inch SATA upgrades
- Capacity
- 1TB
- Form factor
- 2.5-inch
- Interface
- SATA 6Gb/s
- Sequential read/write
- Up to 560/510 MB/s
- Fits standard 2.5-inch SATA bays
- Sequential read speeds reach 560 MB/s
- Five-year limited warranty
- SATA performance trails modern NVMe drives
Is the Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD is a sensible Black Friday 2026 choice for a computer with a 2.5-inch SATA bay. The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD's 560 MB/s sequential read rating suits everyday storage and boot-drive upgrades.
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#2 · Top pick
ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD
The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD is the best high-speed pick for compatible Gen4 systems, with sequential reads up to 7,400 MB/s.
Best for: Fast PCIe Gen4 storage
- Capacity
- 1TB
- Form factor
- M.2 2280
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
- Sequential read/write
- Up to 7,400/6,000 MB/s
- High sequential read speed for Gen4 storage
- Compact M.2 2280 design
- Suitable for demanding storage workloads
- Requires a compatible M.2 NVMe slot
Is the ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD is a strong fit for a compatible PCIe Gen4 computer that needs fast storage. The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD's sequential read rating reaches 7,400 MB/s, far above SATA SSD specifications.
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#3
Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD
The Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD is the best established SATA option for everyday PC upgrades, with sequential reads up to 560 MB/s.
Best for: Reliable SATA storage
- Capacity
- 1TB
- Form factor
- 2.5-inch
- Interface
- SATA 6Gb/s
- Sequential read/write
- Up to 560/530 MB/s
- Broad compatibility with 2.5-inch SATA bays
- Sequential write rating reaches 530 MB/s
- Five-year limited warranty
- SATA interface limits peak transfer speeds
Is the Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD is a good Black Friday 2026 pick for a SATA-based computer that needs a familiar 1TB upgrade. The Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD's 560 MB/s sequential read rating is near the practical ceiling for SATA.
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#4
WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
The WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is the best gaming-focused choice for a compatible PCIe Gen4 PC, with sequential reads up to 7,300 MB/s.
Best for: PC gaming
- Capacity
- 1TB
- Form factor
- M.2 2280
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
- Sequential read/write
- Up to 7,300/6,300 MB/s
- Fast sequential reads for large game files
- Compact M.2 installation
- Designed for demanding PC storage
- Needs an M.2 NVMe slot for installation
Is the WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is worth considering for a PCIe Gen4 gaming PC that needs fast storage. The WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD's sequential read speed reaches 7,300 MB/s, and its M.2 form factor keeps installation compact.
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#5
Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
The Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is the best premium all-rounder for high-performance Gen4 systems, with sequential reads up to 7,450 MB/s.
Best for: Premium Gen4 performance
- Capacity
- 1TB
- Form factor
- M.2 2280
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
- Sequential read/write
- Up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s
- Sequential reads reach 7,450 MB/s
- Fast sequential write specification
- Compact NVMe drive for compatible systems
- Requires an M.2 NVMe connection
Is the Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is a premium choice for a compatible Gen4 PC handling gaming, editing or large transfers. The Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD's sequential read rating reaches 7,450 MB/s, with writes rated up to 6,900 MB/s.
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#6
Kingston KC3000 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
The Kingston KC3000 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is the best fit for heavy file transfers on a compatible Gen4 PC, with sequential reads up to 7,000 MB/s.
Best for: Large files and demanding workloads
- Capacity
- 1TB
- Form factor
- M.2 2280
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
- Sequential read/write
- Up to 7,000/6,000 MB/s
- Fast Gen4 sequential transfer ratings
- M.2 2280 format suits many desktop boards
- Suitable for high-demand storage tasks
- Compatibility depends on an available M.2 NVMe slot
Is the Kingston KC3000 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Kingston KC3000 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD suits a compatible PCIe Gen4 system used for large file transfers and demanding workloads. The Kingston KC3000 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD's sequential read and write ratings reach 7,000 MB/s and 6,000 MB/s.
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#7
Crucial P3 Plus 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
The Crucial P3 Plus 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is the best entry-level NVMe choice for a compatible Gen4 upgrade, with sequential reads up to 5,000 MB/s.
Best for: Everyday NVMe upgrades
- Capacity
- 1TB
- Form factor
- M.2 2280
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe
- Sequential read/write
- Up to 5,000/3,600 MB/s
- Sequential reads reach 5,000 MB/s
- Compact M.2 2280 design
- Useful capacity for games and applications
- Lower sequential speeds than flagship Gen4 drives
Is the Crucial P3 Plus 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Crucial P3 Plus 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is a practical entry-level NVMe upgrade for a compatible Gen4 computer. The Crucial P3 Plus 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD's 5,000 MB/s sequential read specification is substantially faster than the SATA limits of the Crucial MX500.
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What is the difference between the Crucial MX500 and ADATA LEGEND 960?
The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD reads up to 7,400 MB/s, while the Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD reads up to 560 MB/s. The large speed gap comes from their different interfaces: NVMe over PCIe Gen4 versus SATA.
The Crucial MX500 fits a standard 2.5-inch SATA bay, making it a practical choice for many older desktops and laptops. The ADATA LEGEND 960 needs an M.2 2280 NVMe slot with PCIe Gen4 support to reach its rated performance. Check the computer manual before choosing either drive; a matching capacity does not mean matching compatibility.
Which SSD is better for gaming?
The WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD reads up to 7,300 MB/s, making it the strongest gaming-focused pick here for a compatible Gen4 PC. The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD and Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD also offer high sequential speeds.
A fast SSD helps move large game files and supports quick loading, but compatibility and capacity still matter. Check the motherboard or console specifications for supported M.2 size, interface and any required heatsink. Skip it if your system only accepts a 2.5-inch SATA drive; choose the Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD for that connection instead.
Can I install an M.2 NVMe SSD in a SATA computer?
The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD uses a different connection from the ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD, so the two are not interchangeable. A computer needs a compatible M.2 NVMe slot for the ADATA drive and a 2.5-inch SATA bay for the Crucial drive.
M.2 describes a physical drive format, not a guarantee of NVMe support; some M.2 slots support SATA only, while others support NVMe. Confirm the slot’s protocol, supported drive length and PCIe generation in the computer documentation. For laptops, also check physical clearance and whether the drive is replaceable before buying.
Which SSD should I choose for an older laptop or desktop?
The Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD and Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD suit computers with a 2.5-inch SATA bay, and both list sequential reads up to 560 MB/s. Either drive is a straightforward option when the existing storage uses the same form factor and interface.
The first step is identifying the current drive and available connections. A slim laptop with only an M.2 slot will not fit a 2.5-inch drive, and an older M.2 slot does not always support NVMe. Check the exact computer model and use the listed drive length and interface to avoid ordering a drive that cannot be installed.
How should I choose an SSD for Black Friday 2026?
The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD offers a simple 2.5-inch upgrade, while the ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD targets compatible high-speed systems. Compare the product listing with your computer’s supported interface, size and capacity before deciding.
For gaming or large transfers, compare the Gen4 choices by published read and write speeds, capacity and any heatsink requirement. For a basic storage replacement, prioritize fit, warranty and enough room for your operating system, applications and files. A Black Friday shortlist works best when every candidate matches the computer before you compare listing details.
Buying Guide
Confirm the drive connection
The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD needs a 2.5-inch SATA bay, while the ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD needs an M.2 NVMe slot. Verify the computer’s supported interface before choosing.
Choose the right form factor
The Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD measures 2.5 inches, while the Samsung 990 PRO 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD uses an M.2 2280 card. Check available space, mounting hardware and laptop clearance.
Match speed to your workload
The WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD lists sequential reads up to 7,300 MB/s, while the Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD lists up to 560 MB/s. Fast NVMe is useful for compatible demanding systems; SATA fits simpler upgrades.
Pick enough capacity
Every SSD in this guide has a 1TB capacity, a useful starting point for an operating system, applications and a game library. Check your existing storage use and choose a larger capacity when your regular files need more room.
Check the complete listing
The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD and the other model names identify specific drive types, but listing bundles and heatsink versions can differ. Confirm the exact model, included accessories, warranty and compatibility details before checkout.
FAQ
Is the Crucial MX500 faster than the ADATA LEGEND 960?
No. The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD lists sequential reads up to 7,400 MB/s, while the Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD lists up to 560 MB/s. The Crucial drive remains useful for compatible SATA upgrades.
Does the ADATA LEGEND 960 work in a laptop?
The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD works in a laptop with a compatible M.2 2280 NVMe slot. Check the laptop’s storage specifications, supported PCIe generation and available physical clearance before ordering.
Is the Crucial MX500 a good SSD for an older computer?
Yes. The Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD is a suitable upgrade for an older computer with a 2.5-inch SATA bay. Its sequential read speed reaches 560 MB/s, near the practical limit for a SATA SSD.
Which SSD is best for a Gen4 gaming PC?
The WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD is a strong gaming pick for a PCIe Gen4 PC, with sequential reads up to 7,300 MB/s. The Samsung 990 PRO and ADATA LEGEND 960 also offer fast Gen4 storage.
Can I use the Samsung 870 EVO in an M.2 slot?
No. The Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD is a 2.5-inch drive with a SATA connection, not an M.2 card. Choose an SSD that matches the computer’s specific slot and interface.
Is a Gen4 NVMe SSD worth choosing over SATA?
The ADATA LEGEND 960 1TB PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 2280 SSD offers much higher sequential speeds than the Crucial MX500 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD. Choose Gen4 NVMe for a compatible system and demanding transfers; choose SATA when the computer requires a 2.5-inch drive.