9 Best HDD for Gaming – A Comprehensive Buying Guide

Introduction

When one talks about the prerequisite for the perfect gaming experience, a hard disk drive comes as a prime component that cannot be overlooked in any way. Without a good hard disk drive, a system cannot work properly without a proper hard drive installation. For the specific purpose of gaming, you must have a gaming mouse, a high-profile HD monitor, and a keyboard but all these components work better only when you would have a gaming-compatible hard disk drive.

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Without a heavy space-compatible hard disk drive, you cannot install and play storage hungry games. Despite having a highly compatible keyboard, mouse, monitor and gaming pad, etc. you wouldn’t be able to use them when you wouldn’t be having any space on your PC. For this reason, an efficient and high memory standing hard disk drive is required.

The most important factor that confuses a person while buying a gaming hard disk drive is the recognition of prime features and then choosing the one from a reliable manufacturer.

In this buying guide, we have compiled a list of the 9 best hard disk drives that are specifically meant for those who have gaming interests and have made up their minds for upgrading their systems for gaming purposes. After reading this, you would be able to understand your needs and then you would be able to look for those features that are pre-requisite for good hard disk drives.

Also, this article is greatly helpful for those who have extensive use of desktop/pc in their lives. Just have a look on this guide, and by the end, you would definitely have the needed information in choosing the right hard disk drive for your gaming pc.

Just stay tune for we have provided the exhaustive and key information regarding the purchase and selection of the right hard disk drive for your gaming system. After installing a worthy and quality hard disk drive in your pc, you would be able to use your gaming console for a longer time and with optimum speed.

What is a Gaming Hard Drive?

Gaming hard disk drive has apparently the same look as the normal hard disk drive but it has several other functions that differentiate a hard disk drive from a gaming disk drive. If you are upgrading your pc to have a speedy performance you would require a highly compatible hard drive for storing all the data as well as to enjoy a crash free gaming experience, you would be in need of a high quality gaming hard disk drive.

As compared to normal hard disk drives that you might have used or that is commonly used in systems, gaming hard disk drives have more speed, and an exceptional storage capacity. The gaming hard disk drives have more precision when retrieving data. The rotating platters are made up of rigid and high-quality magnetic material and provide the user a lot of space for storing file heavy games.

Moreover, a gaming hard disk drive provides an extensive array of storage with optimum quality performance and the option of fetching data with just one click. You can download/install your large files especially the heavy storage games in your hard disk drive and can use it from the stored data even when the power is off and with the same high quality.

No matter which type of hard drive you have, it would contain four major parts, i-e. platter, spindle, read/write arm and actuator. Platters are used for storing data in a well-organized and well-aligned manner inside the hard disk drives. In gaming hard disk drives, the platters have more speed and is capable of storing more data.

Spindle in hard disk drives keeps a check on the platters so that they may keep their positions aligned and rotate accordingly. In gaming hard disk drives, spindles have more functions to do but at a very fast and accurate pace.

Likewise, the read/write arm guides the read/write head to stay in an appropriate manner and place the data where it must be placed. The controlled movement of read/write head and the supervision of data transfer from the platters are vigilantly watched by the actuator. In gaming, hard disk drives, the actuator and read/write heads have more capacity and work faster to keep the gaming pace on the board.

So, if you want to enjoy your gaming session with a smooth and speedy process, buying a good hard disk drive from a reliable manufacturer is a must.

Why Do You Need a Gaming Hard Drive?

Are you a gamer or an enthusiastic PC user? You might have a gaming pc, and a PC without a smart and highly productive hardware is deemed useless. For the fulfillment of your gaming desires, you would be in dire need of updated gaming accessories, and to store large file games, you would definitely need a gaming hard drive.

A gaming hard disk drive provides a large storage that is placed inside your gaming pc in order to play games. There are a lot of spinning disks inside the gaming hard disk drive where the data is magnetically stored. The gaming hard disk drives have arms with several heads that read/write on the disk. When you access the games of your choice, the arms inside the hard disk drive move the heads across the surface of the disk to access the stored games.

So for quick and rapid games access and for prolonging your gaming session, gaming hard disk drives are needed. So if you are a gamer, buying a high-quality gaming hard disk drive is a must.

Gaming hard drives are specifically meant for long-time data storage, high speed, accuracy, optimum performance, and extensive memory storage space. Gaming hard disk drives not only provide highly optimized storage but also reduce the load time by minimizing game lagging. Therefore, the gaming hard disk drive is really important to provide the user with an extensively optimal level of performance.

For gaming, one needs to have a computer drive that can access the stored games or other needed data quickly. For this gaming experience, solid-state hard drives are favored which features high-resolution support to audio/video with optimum quality. A game that usually takes 2-3 minutes for loading over a hard disk drive, loads much quicker with solid-state drives. For having such optimum quality and quick gaming experience solid state drives are better

But there are many features like low cost and high-quality productivity that are possible through hard disk drives. As compared to solid drives, hard disk drives are cost-effective, less noisy, reliable, and are accessible by most people who play games.

Are There Any Differences Between Regular Hard Disk Drives and a Gaming Hard Disk Drive?

There are a lot of differences between a regular hard disk drive and a gaming hard disk drive. Regular hard disk drives are usually used for normal purposes and provide basic functions like a number of read/write capability. With a blend of usual functionality, many versatile yet high profile functions are part of the hard disk drive which even support some games with lower resource requirements.

But for resource intensive games, a lot of speed and space is required, and to fulfill that purpose, gaming hard disk drives are used. Gaming hard disk drives are purpose-built hard drives for high-profile gaming support and optimum high-performance experience.

Also, the usual hard disk drives have low storage and low processing speed but are sufficient for your daily usage. The average latency rate of usual hard disk drives is 2 ms and the rotational speed stands at 15000 rpm. The data transfer rate of normal hard disk drives is also low, because of which these hard disk drives are not recommended.

Gaming hard disk drives are very much compatible with the games. But games these days are heavier and require space of at least 20-ish GB, therefore, hard disk drives with a higher storage capacity are required. The hard disk drives support and easily store about 120-125GB of games.

What are the Types of Hard Drives?

Hard drives are one of the fundamental features for storing data. There are many types of hard drives that a normal PC would have, these hard drives have different shapes but have the same function, i-e. data storage and data processing.

One type of hard drive is a solid-state hard drive and uses many memory chips because they do not have any rotating elements. Though similar to hard disk drives, solid-state hard drives work silently, use less power, and are even smaller than hard disk drives. Data processing operations like reading/writing operations are performed with more speed and store up to 2TB of data as compared to hard disk drives.

Likewise, a flash-drive is another form of a hard disk drive for data storage but includes flash memory with an integrated USB interface. Flash-drive is usually removable, smaller, and less expensive than typical hard drives. Flash-drives can store up to 2 terabytes of data easily.

Also, micro-SD cards are extensively used for data storage and data processing. They are smaller, contain more data storage capacity and are portable. Micro-SD cards can store up to 2-3 Tb of data easily.

Serial advancement technology attachment (SATA) is the interface that is dedicated for desktop and laptop hard drives. The hard drives which are SATA- specific are called SATA hard drives. These hard drives are rotatory hard drives with spinning platters and needles that move while writing data on the consecutive sectors of each platter.

When compared with the previous version of SATA, i-e. PATA hard drive, SATA hard drives are fast and have a lot of memory. The amazing interface rate of 6 Gb/s is associated with SATA hard drives. SATA drives are available with memory storage ranging from 500 GB to 16 TB but at a low cost.

Another type of hard drive is non-volatile memory express or also called NVME, and is a kind of solid-state drive. It attaches with a PCI slot on the main board with the speed of 32 Gb/s and throughput of 3.9 Gb/s. This type of hard drive has an extensively large memory. So, if you are going to have a gaming PC, just try to install non-volatile memory express.

Besides all of these different forms of hard drives, there is a gaming hard drive. Gaming hard drives have an extensive storage capacity, splendid speed, and faster data processing capacity, etc. The storage capacity of gaming hard disk drives ranges more than 2-4 terabytes because they support games with storage capacity up-to 100-125GB so this much storage capacity is much required for smooth functioning of hard drives.

What is the Type of Hard Drive that is Best for Gaming?

If you are upgrading your pc to be a gaming PC, then you might need high end hardware and compatible software to compliment your gaming pc. Broadly speaking there are two types of drives that you can use in your gaming pc to upgrade it, i-e. solid-state drive and hard disk drive.

solid-state drives are much faster, better performers, and roomier as compared to hard disk drives. On the other side, hard disk drives have high-storage capacity, and above all highly cost effective. solid-state drives are only suitable if you have a high budget, because they are much costly. But if you have budget issues, simply go for hard disk drives.

The kind of hard disk drive that you want to choose for your gaming pc is specifically dependent on your needs and budget. Though solid-state drives work like hard disk drives but they are costly and less reliable as compared to hard disk drives. That is why most of the game-lovers go for hard disk drives. They are less costly, more reliable and work more rigorously as compared to solid-state drives.

Hard disk drives with extensive memory storage and speed, are more viable to be upgraded as gaming hard disk drives. With these gaming hard disk drives you can easily store heavy memory games and can play them with extensive speed and accuracy. The back-up of your games is also very convenient with these hard disk drives.

Hard disk drives with memory storage capacity ranging from 500 GB to 14 TB are recommended for gaming purposes. Hard disk drives with less load time, high storage capacity, reduced game lagging and optimum speed are the best drives for gaming. There are hundreds of gaming hard drives available in the market produced by different manufacturers, but one must weigh the features along-with pros and cons before buying a hard disk drive for your gaming pc.

The Picks: 9 Best HDD for Gaming

Normally people go change their hard drives for two reasons, i-e. for upgrading the system or to change the system because of some defect. But it’s not very easy to change/upgrade your system especially if that is meant for gaming.

If you are upgrading your pc to be a gaming-specific pc, you would have a gaming mouse, a high-quality monitor, and even a comfortable gaming chair to make your hours comfortable while playing long games on your system. All of this would go into vain if you wouldn’t have enough room to store your heavy games that are mostly with a capacity of more than 100 GB. And for this much storage, you would require a highly-compatible and high storage hard disk drive.

Don’t know where to buy and which type of hard drive to buy for your gaming pc? Just stay calm, we have prepared this buying guide for you with the top 9 best hard disk drives that are exclusively meant for gaming purposes.

Here we have compiled a list of the best gaming hard drives with optimum performance and quality. The key features, along with their pros and cons have also been discussed at great length in this buying guide, so if you still have not made up your mind on which HDD to buy, just read till the end.

Samsung (MZ-V7E1T0BW) 970 EVO SSD

With first availability in 2018, this solid-state drive has been placed at the top rank based on our research of its key features and cost-effectiveness, etc. Manufactured by Samsung, this solid drive is made up of reliable and unique features. The most unique trait is the V and technology that has been used in making this solid-state drive.

This solid-state drive is most suitable for complementing your gaming pc. Featured with high competency, low state latency, user-friendly and durable material, this solid-state drive is a complete package for gamers.

Also, the NVME together with the latest V NAND technology make the perfect combination for upgrading  your pc to be a gaming  pc. The read and write operation can be easily and speedily performed through non-volatile memory express with this solid-state drive.

Besides powerful features and durability, the security of your data is also ensured through the installation of this solid-state drive in your pc. The Samsung software that makes files transfer and security of data, an accurate one is truly called the magic software through this drive.

With 970 EVO, experience the high-end gaming and quick data processing, during your gaming sessions. The new phoenix controller together with the intelligence of Turbowrite technology, help in smooth game-playing and well-aligned graphic works. Enjoy the fastest read/write speed up-to 3500 MB/s with this drive in your pc. Feel the difference of about 32% faster read/writing operations by using your pc after the installation of this solid-state drive.

Key Feature

• New and innovative V NAND technology
• Weight of solid-state drive 1.76 ounces
• Reading speed up-to 3500 MB/s
• Writing speed up-to 2500 MB/s
• Random read speed up-to 500,000 IOPS
• Highly compatible and efficient Samsung software
• Automatic software updates
• Warranty of 600 terabytes
• Thermal guard dynamics
• Digital storage capacity of 1 TB
• Hard disk Form factor up-to 3.50”
• 50% more speedy and accurate performer than the previous generations
• User friendly software
• Data transfer speed up-to 550Mb per second
• solid-state drive dimensions 0.87 x 3.15 x 0.9 inches        
• Available in black and red colors

Pros

• Reduced latency
• Innovative technological features
• High read/write speed
• Long-time usage with power efficiency
• Rapid and safe file transfer
• High security for stored data and for data encryption
• Warranty up-to 5 years
• Flexible and durable design
• Nickel-coated heat controller and automatic monitor

Cons

• Expensive to purchase and maintain afterward

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Verdict           

The Samsung (MZ-V7E1T0BW) 970 EVO SSD is equipped with top-class features like low latency, high speed of file transfer, superb security, and interruption-free gaming, etc. Altogether, these features have placed this drive to be the best in terms of performance and quality. Also, the availability in two colors along-with incredible file transfer and data encryption speed make this solid-state drive to be the super-match for your gaming pc.

Moreover, there is no need to curtail your gaming sessions in fear of pc heat-up. With the splendid cooling technology laced with the automatic thermal guard, prolong your games as long as you want. The digital storage capacity and the high speed of this drive is 50% faster than of its previous driver versions.

Enjoy your games fearlessly with the warranty up-to 5 years or 600 TB, with this solid-state drive. The non-volatile memory express geared with the latest V Nand technology, is the right pick for you. So, buy this solid-state drive, install it in your pc, sit back and enjoy the gaming show without any interruption and high-end quality speed.

Western Digital 1TB WD Blue SN550 NVMe Internal SSD

The number 2 rank in terms of performance, and quality, etc. has been secured by western digital 1TB WD blue SN550 NVME internal solid-state drive. With the cost effectiveness and extensive storage with NVMe, streamline the power of your pc and get the best gaming experience by installing this solid-state drive in your system.

Enhance the working capacity of your system with this ultimate next generation solid-state drive with the complementary performance of non-volatile memory express. This solid-state drive is 4 times faster than SATA solid-state drives. The design that it holds is the western digital design through which the heat is controlled and monitored thoroughly.

For the support and heat control of the system, the automatic firmware update is there. The western digital designed solid-state drive dashboard always monitors the SSD’s operation so that it may work for a longer time without any loss. With digital storage capacity of 1 TB, and the form factor of M.2 2280, this solid-state drive is the right deal for gamers who are looking for high speed and durable design.

Get the most exceptional read/write speed by installing this solid-state drive in your gaming pc. The sequential reading speed of this solid-state drive exceeds even 2600 MB/s which is really exceptional to play your high potency games without any interruption. Moreover, the non-volatile memory express hardware residing in this drive increases the performance with the element of efficiency.

The non-volatile memory express hardware is a scalable component that not only upgrades the working of your pc but also uses less power thus making this drive the most perfect match for your long-usage. The low power consumption rate stands up-to 3.9w which is incredibly convenient in the matter of a gaming pc.

The most prime factor in ensuring the quality performance at the optimal level is the all around check and balance of the hardware, software, and firmware through validity testing. Because of the award winning blue heritage quality and reliability, this solid-state drive is exceptionally a fit for your gaming system. All these superb quality features are possible only through the advanced testing of the solid-state drive.

Key Features

• Digital memory storage capacity up-to 1 terabyte
• Blue heritage quality and reliability
• Low power consumption up-to 3.9w
• Nonvolatile memory express hardware
• 4 times faster than SATA solid-state drives
• Western digital design controller and monitor for performance check
• Heat check by western design
• Sequential writing capacity up-to 1800 MB/s
• TBW up-to 900
• PCIe Gen 3 x4
• Weight of 0.20 ounces
• solid-state drive dimensions of 3.15 x 0.87 x 0.09 inches
• Data transfer rate up-to 8 GB/second
• Hardware platform is of PC, Mac, Linux 
• 30 days money back warranty if DOA

Pros

• Cost effective
• Low power consumption
• Continuance check and monitoring of hardware, firmware and software
• Purpose-built drive for gaming pc
• Exceptional reading and writing speed
• Western design controller for heat check
• Speedy data transfer rate
• Light weight
• Easy to install
• Super-fast responsive performance
• Very convenient drive dimensions

Cons

• Non-volatile memory express drive is not compatible with SATA interface

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Verdict

Presented for sale just two years ago, the Western Digital 1TB WD Blue SN550 is truly the best option available for upgrading your gaming pc. Whether you are using the existing files, creating new files, or transferring any kind of data, enjoy the high speed with this incredible read speed up-to 2500 MB/s and write speed up-to 1800 MB/s.

Apart from high performance, the light weight and low power consumption make this solid-state drive the best drive to be used for playing games. Also, the most amazing feature is the western design which not only controls the heat-up of the pc but also puts a continuous check on the proper functioning of your gaming pc.

The most convenient dimensions of the solid-state drive make it very suitable to be installed for your gaming pc. It’s so easy to install and very light weight that you can easily do it yourself at home.

Besides the digital memory storage up-to 1 terabyte, this drive is backed by the 30 days money back warranty by its manufacturer. So now enjoy your gaming sessions without any interruption of pause or overheat, just prolong the joy of gaming without any fear of hardware heat-up.

Seagate BarraCuda 120 SSD 2TB Internal Solid-State Drive

With the form factor of 2.5 inches, branded by Seagate, this solid-state drive is another good option for upgrading your gaming pc. The rapid data transfer and TBW up-to 1170 make it an amazingly thrilling choice for gamers.

Have you experienced the rare exceptional read/write speed exceeding 560 MB/s and 550 MB/s respectively, in your current drive? Surely no. By installing this solid-state drive in your system, you can now feel the thrill of super-fast read/write speed in your pc with 100% accuracy.

The digital storage capacity that revolves around 2 Terabyte and 6.0 GB/s SATA hardware interface, you would truly feel the supreme gaming experience. Combined with the fast and latest features like next-generation controllers and the 3D NAND technology, this solid-state drive provides you the maximum speed and optimum performance in every gaming session.

Upgrade your pc/desktop with the superb quality solid-state drive and feel the difference in your every sitting. With the capacity of 1TB, 2TB, 250GB, 500GB, we bet you would get amazed the gaming experience this drive provides.

Key Features

• Read speed up-to 560MB/s
• Write speed up-to 550 MB/s
• 3D NAND super-fast technology
• Capacity of 1TB, 2TB, 250GB, 500GB
• Digital storage capacity up-to 2 TB
• SATA interface with 6.0 GB/s
• Form factor 2.5 inches X 7mm
• 1.76 ounces of weight
• Length of solid-state drive 3.95 inches
• Width and height of solid-state drive respectively 2.76inches x 0.28 inches
• MTBF of 1.8 hours
• TBW up-to 1170
• 30 days money back warranty if arrive dead

Pros

• Light weight
• Extensively high digital storage capacity
• Box included in package
• Maximum superb read/write speed
• Perfect match for laptops, PC,s and desktop computers

Cons

• Very expensive

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Verdict

Offered to customers for sale just a few years ago, the Seagate BarraCuda 120 SSD 2TB is though expensive, but it contains very unique and highly optimized features that would definitely compliment your gaming pc. You would enjoy the thrilling gaming session in every sitting with the splendid reading speed of 560 MB/s and writing speed of 550 MB/s.

The data transfer speed of 2 TB along-with the light weight of this product, turns it ideal for your desktop, laptops and PCs. The extensive storage space and the speed available in this drive are undoubtedly the superb features which would serve you with the best gaming experience each time you would sit to play.

SAMSUNG 870 EVO 500GB 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD

Started the sale to its customers recently, this solid-state drive is manufactured by one of the most reliable manufacturer of electronic products, Samsung. The highly compatible gaming solid-state drive is an exceptional option for the gamers to have the gaming session with full excitement. Samsung has created this drive by combining various cutting edge technology so that its user may get the best experience while using it.

Combined with a SATA interface whose speed exceeds 560/530 MB/s, this 870 EVO solid-state drive is undoubtedly an elegant choice for those who spend a long time on their PCs. Have the best experience of gaming with great performance.

With exceptionally super-speed and multi-tasking feature, accelerate your PC performance with up-to 8k video processing along-with 2400 TBW. Also, enjoy your gaming sessions fearlessly with this solid-state drive which is under the warranty cover up-to 5 years. The controlled and continuous operations for heat check make this solid-state drive one of the prime options for gamers. Now, you can play your resource intensive games for a long time without any interruption, without your PC overheating

Besides having 2.5 inches standard SATA form factor, this solid-state drive also has optimum compatibility with the major components so to give you the best gaming experience. The compatibility of EVO 870 has been tested for major host systems and applications that include chipsets, motherboards, NAS and also, the video recording devices. Thus, making your every work possible and fear-free, this solid-state drive is the perfect match to your gaming set.

The auto software update and the high compatibility of this solid-state drive would let you enjoy your every gaming moment. Additionally, with the Samsung software 6, you have to do nothing with the updates. Just buy this solid-state drive, install it and let it work on your behalf. The highly optimum software would automatically configure with the operating software.

Also, the Samsung software 6 continuously monitors the pc operation and monitors the health of your system by watching and taking care of its proper opertions with fast heat control.

Key Features

• Extent of computing up-to 8k video processing
• 2.5 inches standard SATA form factor
• SATA interface limit up-to 560/530 MB/s
• Up-to 2400 TBW
• Up-to 5 years warranty
• Samsung software 6 for control and monitoring of the system
• Length of solid-state drive 3.94 inches
• Width of solid-state drive 2.76inches and height of solid-state drive 0.27 inches
• 2.08 ounces in weight
• Flash memory size exceeds 500 GB
• 30 days money back guarantee if dead on arrival
• Data transfer rate 560 mb/second
• SATA interface with 6.0 Gb/s

Pros

• Highly reliable and compatible
• Industry grade reliability
• Compatibility and reliability test for major host systems and applications
• Automatic heat control and monitor
• Interruption-free long usage
• Automatic software configuration
• Light weight
• Extensively high memory size
• Backup-data option with Samsung migration software

Cons

• Quite expensive when compare with other similar products

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Verdict

With a weight of just 2.08 ounces and most reasonable dimensions, the SAMSUNG 870 EVO 500GB has the exceptional flash memory up-to 500 GB. By installing this drive into your system you have nothing to worry about your data backup or data transfer. With the Samsung data transfer software, you transfer/backup your data within the blink of your eyes.

If you are a long-term pc user and spend a lot of time on your pc, you have nothing to worry with heat up or low performance. With its automatic heat control and continuous performance checks, you can enjoy extended pc usage without taking any pause..

Seagate FireCuda 1TB Solid-state Hybrid Drive Performance SSHD

Are you a gamer and want to enjoy the maximum gaming speed in one go? It is possible with Seagate manufactured Firecuda solid-state hard drives. Now, you can have the maximum storage capacity with the highly extensive performance at a reasonable price by installing a solid-state drive in your pc.

Combined with the features of a hard disk drive, this solid-state drive is the crux of solid design with top level durability. So, one can enjoy extended gaming sessions without any downtime or any other overheating problem. The featured hybrid specifications in this solid-state allow its user to load your games with fast and over the top accuracy.

When combined with high accuracy and reliability, this solid-state drive can give you a splendid experience of super-quality optimum speed and extensive storage. Moreover, the heavy games can be played smoothly because of its easy booting and fast configuration.

Firecuda is a purposely-built super-durable and 5 times faster performance compared to its previous versions. With a 5 year warranty of this drive, now just invest once and have your gaming sessions for a longer time without any pause or panic.

The form factor in this drive ranges between 2.5-3.5 inches and its storage capacity reaches up-to 2 Tb. This cost effective drive combined with the low power consumption make this drive the best product for gamers.

Key Features

• Storage capacity up-to 2TB
• 5 X more faster than of previous versions
• Form factor 2.5-3.5 inches
• Optional data recovery plans
• Weight up-to 3.39 ounces
• Dimensions of drive 3.95 x 2.75 x 0.28 inches
• Hard disk rotational speed up-to 5400 rpm
• Hardware interface SATA 6.0 Gb/s
• Installed cache memory 1 GB    
• 5 year warranty
• 30 days money back guarantee for DOA
• Digital storage capacity up-to 1 TB
• Read speed of 140 Megabytes Per Second                          

Pros

• Extensive storage capacity
• Moderate level of form factor
• Super-fast and accurate data transfer mode
• Accelerated flash than previous modes

Cons

• Low installed cache memory
• Low digital storage capacity
• Low read speed

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Verdict

With an affordable price and numerous features make the Seagate FireCuda 1TB as one of the top-class gaming drives. With the exceptional super-fast speed and optimum performance, this drive would truly make your every gaming session a memorable one.

Now enjoy your gaming sessions with more excitement because there is no fear of pc heat-up or any drive-related issues. Under the warranty of 5 years, get your drive replaced/repaired by the manufacturer if any issues arise.

The low power consumption and the hybrid style of the drive give you all the functions that a gaming pc should have but at a very affordable price. Equipped with fast loading features and rapid booting operations, this solid-state drive is 5 times ahead in flash capacity than of its predecessors.

Get the exclusive characteristics of costly drives at a reasonable price and make your gaming time longer and full of thrill.

Seagate BarraCuda 2TB Internal Hard Drive HDD

Built with the form factor of 3.5 inches and 2 TB internal storage capacity at a very reasonable price, this is all you need in your gaming PC. Surely when you would scroll down to look at its features you would do nothing else but get this solid-state drive to complement your gaming system.

With the enhanced storage capacity and super-fast capability, let your pc tie the knot with its most affiliated companion, a Barracuda hard drive. Manufactured by Seagate, this drive has the name of reliability like other numerous products of its manufacturer.

Whether you want to load games, upload videos or any other activity that demands high storage capacity and ultra-fast speed, you will get everything in this hard drive. The SATA interface with 6.0GB/s is the most convenient and suitable feature that you would require for making your simple state pc to be a powerful gaming system. 

With the most moderate reading speed up-to 220 Megabytes Per Second and super-fast upload/download videos/audios, etc. this drive carries every single feature which is suitable for gaming but at a very low cost.

Experience the supreme data transfer and data processing features, by installing the BarraCuda internal hard drive inside your pc. The multi-tier technological feature allows multiple application processing simultaneously at a time but with extreme accuracy and confidence of security.

Key Features

• Memory storage capacity up-to 2 TB
• Read speed 220 MB/s per second
• SATA interface of 6.0 GB/s
• Multi-tier caching technology
• Drive dimensions 5.79 x 4 x 0.79 inches
• Weight of hard drive 0.92 lbs     
• Installed cache memory size 256.00        
• Hard disk rotational speed of 7200 rpm 
• 2 year warranty
• Form factor 3.5 inches  

Pros

• Cost effective
• Versatile and multi-tasker
• SATA interface included
• Light weight
• Built by reliable manufacturer
• Rapid data processing

Cons

• Low reading speed per second
• Less warranty year

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Verdict

With the extremely light weight and 2 year warranty of Seagate BarraCuda 2TB, enjoy your every gaming experience with supreme technology and cutting edge features. The cost effectiveness and the extensive installed cache capacity, make this drive to be the most intelligent choice for building your gaming system.

Coming with a very reasonable cost and manufactured by a reliable company, let your mates get jealous of your mini gaming power house. Compiled with SATA interface and splendid versatile features, this drive occupies all that you would require as a gamer.

The rapid data processing and data transfer rates allow the user of this drive to quickly perform every function in the span of a few moments. So, if you are in love with games, and want to spend more quality time in gaming without any interruption, just get this drive and get your wishes come true.

Western Digital 500GB WD Blue SN550 NVMe Internal SSD

Built by western digital, this drive is designed with automatic heat detection and the continuous monitoring of the system’s health.  The reading speed of 2400 Megabytes Per Second and the splendid storage capacity of 500 GB, this solid-state drive carry all those traits that are essential for the smooth working of your gaming pc.

Upgrade the performance of your pc with the latest technology and next generation NVMe solid-state drive. With the very affordable price and easy to install features, make your every gaming session with enthusiasm and full of thrill with ultimate speed.    

With M.2 2280 form factor and optimum performance, this extensively compatible solid-state drive is tested with numerous applications, firmware and all those features with which a pc work. Manufactured with longer life and over 4 times faster capabilities, this solid-state drive is just a perfect match for your gaming experience.

The cost effective feature along-with the most reliable software, this solid-state drive gives you a thorough enthusiastic experience of optimum gaming. The western digital design controls and monitors the smooth working of your system. The digital solid-state drive dashboard constantly watches out for the regular working and smooth health of your system.

The scalable NVMe hardware makes up the main component of this solid-state drive, which enhances the performance together with the low power consumption that maxes out at only 3.9w.

The award winning WD blue heritage technology keeps the quality and reliability at the optimal level and because of this amazing built-in feature, this solid-state drive has become the great option for complementing your gaming set.

Key Features

• Award-winning blue heritage technology
• Non-volatile memory express (NVMe) hardware
• Low power consumption maxes out at 3.9w
• Digital storage capacity up-to 500 GB
• Read speed of 2400 Megabytes Per Second
• Hardware interface PCIE x 4
• Form factor of M.2 2280
• Write speed up-to 1800 MB/s per second
• TBW up-to 900
• Weight of 0.247 ounces
• solid-state drive dimensions of 3.15 x 0.87 x 0.09 inches
• Data transfer rate 8 Gb per second         
• Capacity up-to 1 TB

Pros

• Equipped with next generation non-volatile memory express
• Low power consumption
• Extensive digital storage capacity
• Continuous monitoring and check by western digital technology
• Validation and compatibility test conducted
• Rapid data transfer rate
• Low weight

Cons

• Lower read speed
• Low writing speed
• Only desktop is compatible device

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Verdict

With weight of just 0.247 ounces, the Western Digital 500GB WD Blue is another great option for your daily gaming sessions. With the automatic heat detection and Cooling functions, you can now, extend your gaming sessions for longer periods.

Though the capacity is standard, the latest western digital design makes this drive the best drive for turning your normal pc into a solid power-house. Also, the design continuously monitors and keeps the health of your system up-to-date so that you may enjoy your gaming periods, without any interruption.

Seagate Game Drive 2TB External Hard Drive Portable HDD

Geared with the read speed of 140 MB/s and hardware interface of USB 3.0, this hard disk drive is the most suitable drive for your PC. This hard disk drive is not only portable but also has the maximum storage capacity up-to 2 TB. This extensive storage capacity makes this drive a suitable storage bucket for storing your space consuming games.

With an extensive storage capacity package, having this hard drive installed in your pc now have an extra room for storing up-to 50 space consuming games. Now, there is no need to delete any of the games from your drive, just keep these games stored and even add more games and enjoy playing a variety of games without any interruption.

Specifically meant for Xbox gaming, experience lag-free gaming with this portable hard disk drive in your PC. With USB 3.0 connectivity, you need no wires or cable for data transfer. Quickly install your set-up, and there is no need to go to any expert technician for help, instead, set up this drive yourself and start gaming immediately.

The classic green design of Xbox logo and geared with unique features, this hard drive is just the perfect package for your gaming PC. The travel ready from-factor allows the user to carry this portable hard disk drive anywhere they go.

Also, you will have peace of mind since this package includes a 1 year warranty, along with a 1 year rescue service feature. Get your hard drive repaired/replaced by the manufacturer and enjoy fearlessly playing games.

Key Features

• Maximum storage capacity up-to 2000 GB           
• Hard drive size 2 TB
• USB 3.0 connectivity
• 1 year warranty
• Read speed up-to 140 Megabytes Per Second
• 1 year rescue service
• Compatible with Gaming Console, Desktop
• Weight of 5.92 ounces  
• Hard drive dimensions 4.61 x 3.15 x 0.58 inches
• Voltage of 12V
• 30 days money back warranty if DOA

Pros

• Cable-free connectivity with USB 3.0
• Portable and travel-friendly hard disk drive
• 1 year long warranty and 1 year rescue service
• Featured with green xbox for extensive storage
• High speed performance
• Quick start guide
• Lag-free gaming experience

Cons

• Low read speed
• Heavy weight

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Verdict

With the drive size of 2 Tb and an extensive storage capacity, the Seagate Game Drive 2TB is the ultimate solution for your upgrading your gaming pc. The green featured Xbox design provides the storage capacity of 100 plus games, so you don’t need to delete any game to replace with the newer ones.

The quick start guide allows the user to install this drive easily without any third party help. Get the most prime high performance gaming experience with this superbly featured hard disk drive.

Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive Portable HDD

Digital storage capacity of 2 TB and branded by Seagate, this hard disk drive is another worthy option for your gaming PC. The USB 3.0 connectivity gives the user an extensive cable size rapid action which allows the quickest file transfer, data processing and data storage.
The compatible devices with this drive includes  PS4, PC, Xbox, Mac. This drive provides a wide variety of options for the gamer to choose and experience the best performance. If you want to have a spacious back up with complete security check, this drive is the solution meant for you.

Key Features

• 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
• Maximum speed up-to 120 MB/s
• 30 days money guarantee for dead on arrival product
• Portable and travel-friendly drive
• Weight of drive 6.7 ounces
• Drive dimensions 4.6 x 3.15 x 0.58 inches
• Operating systems include Windows®10, Windows 8, Windows 9

Pros

• Easy plug and play
• Quick start guide
• 1 year long warranty
• 1 year rescue service
• Automatic recognition
• Portable hard drive

Cons

• No security included
• Not available in multiple colors
• Heavy weight

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Verdict

Available for sale in 2018, the Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive is portable and easy to carry, so you need no worries while carrying it with you anywhere you go. With the storage capacity of 2 TB, this hard drive is easy to install and use. With the automatic configuration system, you need no extra software for updating your PC.

Enjoy the problem free experience with 1 year warranty and 1 year service rescue, making your every gaming session full of thrill and excitement. This hard drive carries all that stuff that one would need in playing storage eating games.

What to Look for When Choosing a HDD for Gaming?

Storage Capacity

The foremost factor that must be considered before buying a hard disk drive for your PC, is the storage capacity. As the main purpose of a hard disk drive is to store data, there must be enough storage to store all your games. Gaming PC are specifically meant for storing high memory containing games, therefore, one must look for a spacious storage for one’s gaming PC, normally ranging between 2 TB to 4 TB of space.

Read/write Speed

Another important aspect that must be considered before buying a hard drive for your gaming PC is the extensive read/write speed. You would definitely hate to have interruption or any pause while playing a crucial part of the game, for that sake you need to have a very fast read/write speed in your pc. The normal read/write capacity up-to 200-220 MB/s is recommended for Gaming pc.

Brand Name

Brand name matters a lot especially when you are buying something for a smooth gaming experience. If gaming is your passion and you want your money and time’s worth, make sure to buy a hard drive from a reliable and reputable brand like Samsung, Seagate, Western Digital, etc.

Product Dimensions

Product dimensions must also be given importance when buying a hard drive for your gaming PC. The weight must be the one that would be easier for you to carry. The length, width and height must also be taken in due consideration before buying any hard drive.

Recommendation

Best Overall

Featured with the latest V Nand technology and NVMe feature, Samsung (MZ-V7E1T0BW) 970 EVO SSD, comes out as the best overall drive for complementing your gaming PC. We have analyzed its key features, pros and cons, and every single factor along-with the cost price. After analyzing all these aspects like a form factor of 2.5 inches, reliability from the brand, and its smart technology, we have reserved the best overall rank for Samsung (MZ-V7E1T0BW) 970 EVO SSD.

Runner-up

When we examine the key features like SATA interface speed, warranty, weight and other dimensions, we found SAMSUNG 870 EVO 500GB 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD, to be a runner up. With its amazing storage capacity, optimum performance and elegant design, this drive is another superb option for your gaming HDD.

Best Value for Money

Cost is of course the most apparent factor in making the final buying decisions regarding hard drives, but don’t worry because we have one very cost effective yet a super-fit gaming drive for you, i-e. Seagate BarraCuda 2TB Internal Hard Drive. With SATA interface, form factor of 3.5 inches, and amazing read speed of 220 MB/s, this is the best cost effective yet a superb choice for storing all gaming files.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the SATA port worthy to be included in the drive?

Yes certainly, SATA ports exclusively with 6.0 GB/s enable the user to enjoy the secured, rapid and optimum-level data transfer and data processing.

Should I back-up everything and how often?

If your drive offers an extensive storage capacity, data back-up in month would be good, but if you are adding games, videos or any other files in your system on a daily basis, then back-up them once in a day. It all depends on your data sensitivity and memory storage capacity.

When should I replace my hard drive?

If your system is running slow or you need more storage capacity in your PC, you should look for a hard drive upgrade. Also, if your PC is slowing down, it means that the hard drive that you had installed is about to breakdown. So, before it completely breaks down, it is better to change/replace or upgrade your hard drive with a better and newer one.

Final Words

If you are a gamer and are thinking of upgrading your gaming PC storage, you must look for everything that should be a perfect match your PC, which of course includes hard drives. There are so many options available in the market that one can easily get confused about the right product to choose. But by reading this guide, you would definitely understand the main features of a drive and you would be able to easily choose the perfect match for your gaming pc.

For your benefit, a list of 9 best drives has been given in this article and you would truly get rid of all your worries regarding buying hard drives after reading this guide. Stop worrying, and buy the one that suits your pocket, time and above all, your PC, and enjoy the gaming moments with more enthusiasm.