GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD

GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD — image 1
GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD — image 2
GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD — image 3
GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD — image 4
88%
91%
Performance
94%
Read Speed
87%
Write Speed
88%
Installation Ease
90%
Compatibility
85%
Durability
80%
Price vs Performance
89%
Reliability
83%
Thermals
92%
Noise
82%
Long-Term Value
91%
Setup/Installation
More

Overview

The GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD is a high-performance storage solution that brings significant speed improvements over older generations. With sequential read speeds of up to 5000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 2500 MB/s, this SSD is built to handle demanding tasks with ease. Whether you're gaming, editing videos, or running resource-intensive applications, this drive delivers fast load times and efficient performance. It’s a great choice for users seeking reliable, cutting-edge storage in a compact M.2 2280 form factor. For a speed boost in both gaming and professional use, this PCIe 4.0 drive stands out.

Features & Benefits

The GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD offers a range of impressive features, starting with its PCIe 4.0 interface that ensures faster data transfer speeds compared to previous generations. The drive is equipped with a DDR4 512MB external cache buffer, which improves read and write efficiency, ensuring smooth and consistent performance. The use of 3D TLC NAND flash enhances durability, contributing to the SSD’s long lifespan. Additionally, its compact M.2 2280 form factor makes installation easy in most modern gaming PCs, laptops, and consoles, giving users a simple way to upgrade their system’s storage.

Best For

This PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD is ideal for a variety of users, particularly gamers who need fast boot and load times for demanding games. Content creators working with large media files will benefit from its rapid data access, ensuring smooth editing and rendering. PC enthusiasts looking to upgrade storage speed will appreciate its performance boost, while those transitioning to PCIe 4.0 for the latest generation of devices will find it a perfect match. Whether you’re a professional or a casual user, this 500GB NVMe drive provides the speed and reliability needed for any task.

User Feedback

Many users have praised this GIGABYTE AORUS SSD for its remarkable speed, especially in gaming and video editing workflows, where fast load times and smooth performance are critical. Installation is a breeze for most, with several reviewers noting its compatibility with both PCs and consoles. Some have even reported noticeable improvements in system responsiveness after upgrading. However, a few users have pointed out that while the SSD performs well, its 500GB capacity might feel limiting for those with larger storage needs. Overall, it has received positive feedback for maintaining consistent performance across various applications.

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Pros

  • Offers extremely fast read speeds up to 5000 MB/s, improving gaming and video editing performance.
  • Installation is straightforward, with compatibility across most gaming PCs, laptops, and consoles.
  • The 512MB DDR4 cache buffer enhances read and write efficiency, providing smoother performance.
  • Compact M.2 2280 form factor fits easily into most devices without requiring additional adapters.
  • PCIe 4.0 interface delivers significant speed improvements over older storage solutions.
  • Durable 3D TLC NAND flash ensures a long lifespan even under heavy workloads.

Cons

  • May not reach full performance on older systems lacking PCIe 4.0 support.
  • The 500GB capacity might not be enough for users who need larger storage for extensive media files.
  • Price is on the higher side compared to other SSDs with similar storage but slower speeds.
  • While installation is generally easy, some users reported issues with recognizing the drive on certain systems.
  • The performance benefits are more noticeable in high-end applications, making it less suitable for light users.
  • No bundled software or utilities to monitor drive health or optimize performance.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, including feedback from multiple platforms and languages, the GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD receives high marks for its speed and reliability. Only authentic, high-quality feedback informed these ratings, ensuring a comprehensive view of both strengths and areas for improvement. The scores reflect genuine user experiences, providing valuable insight into the product’s overall performance and suitability for various use cases.

Performance
91%
Many users have expressed satisfaction with the impressive speed of this SSD, particularly in gaming and professional workloads. The high read speeds of up to 5000 MB/s make a noticeable difference in load times and file transfers, while the write speeds help with fast, efficient data processing. Overall, it offers a noticeable performance boost for power users.
Some users have noted that while the performance is strong, it may not be fully utilized by lower-end systems or workloads that don’t require such high speeds. Additionally, a few buyers mentioned that the performance difference compared to previous models was not as dramatic as expected, especially in basic tasks.
Read Speed
94%
This drive excels in read speed, consistently delivering up to 5000 MB/s in real-world use. Many users highlight how quickly it loads large games and programs, making it perfect for gamers and content creators. The responsiveness of the drive translates into faster game loading times and smoother video editing workflows.
A few users have pointed out that the read speed performance can be inconsistent depending on system configuration. In some cases, particularly with older motherboards or systems without PCIe 4.0 support, users didn’t experience the full read speed potential.
Write Speed
87%
The SSD's write speeds of up to 2500 MB/s are highly regarded by users for tasks like video editing and data-heavy transfers. Several users mentioned that even with large file sizes, the device maintains good performance, helping content creators and professionals get their work done faster.
Some buyers felt that while the write speed is solid, it falls short compared to other high-performance drives on the market, especially those targeting professionals who require even faster write speeds. A few users mentioned that the performance drops slightly under sustained heavy load.
Installation Ease
88%
The M.2 2280 form factor makes installation simple and quick, especially for users upgrading their systems. Many users highlighted how the SSD was easily installed in both gaming PCs and laptops without issues. The process is straightforward, requiring only basic knowledge of PC assembly.
Some users encountered minor difficulties when installing this SSD in older laptops or custom builds. Compatibility issues with specific systems or motherboard configurations were occasionally reported, requiring BIOS updates or manual adjustments.
Compatibility
90%
Users appreciate the broad compatibility this SSD offers. It's compatible with most gaming PCs, laptops, and consoles, making it an excellent choice for gamers who want a versatile storage solution. Its PCIe 4.0 support ensures that users with newer systems can fully take advantage of its speed.
While compatibility is generally strong, some users with older systems or non-PCIe 4.0 motherboards didn’t see the same performance gains. Additionally, a few users on budget systems mentioned that the benefits of PCIe 4.0 were minimal for their needs, especially in less demanding tasks.
Durability
85%
The durability of this SSD is praised for its ability to withstand demanding workloads over extended periods. The use of 3D TLC NAND flash and a robust cache buffer helps it maintain a longer lifespan, even under continuous use. Many buyers noted that it remained reliable in gaming and content creation setups.
A few users have expressed concerns over the long-term durability, with one or two reporting slower speeds after extensive use. Although the general consensus is positive, some still wonder whether it can maintain its performance after years of heavy workloads.
Price vs Performance
80%
20%
This drive offers a solid price-to-performance ratio for users looking to upgrade their storage. Many users have expressed satisfaction with the performance gains at this price point, especially when compared to older, slower SSDs. It provides strong performance for gamers and professionals at a reasonable cost.
Some buyers feel that the price is a bit steep for the 500GB capacity, especially with other options offering larger sizes or slightly faster speeds. A few users mentioned that similar drives from other brands may provide better value at a lower cost, particularly for those who don’t need top-tier speeds.
Reliability
89%
The GIGABYTE AORUS SSD is highly rated for its consistent reliability. Users report that it runs smoothly even under heavy workloads, making it a dependable choice for both gamers and professionals. The SSD holds up well under daily use and has shown minimal signs of wear.
Although reliability is generally strong, a few users reported occasional slowdowns when the SSD reaches near full capacity. These issues seem to be isolated, but it’s worth noting for those planning on filling the drive quickly.
Thermals
83%
The SSD's thermal management is solid, with users reporting that it remains cool under load. Even during extended gaming sessions or data-heavy tasks, it doesn’t seem to heat up excessively, ensuring stable performance. The 512MB DDR4 cache buffer also plays a role in managing heat efficiently.
A few users did report that the SSD can get quite warm under sustained heavy use, especially in systems without additional cooling. Some felt that under prolonged usage, a heatsink would be beneficial to maintain optimal performance.
Noise
92%
Users generally found this SSD to be silent in operation. It is ideal for those building quiet PC setups, with minimal noise during gaming or data processing. This is a welcomed feature for users who prioritize a noise-free computing environment.
Although most users were satisfied with the quiet operation, a few did mention that in certain configurations, the SSD emitted faint noise during heavy activity, though this was rare.
Long-Term Value
82%
18%
For users who prioritize long-term investment in their storage, this SSD is a strong option. Its combination of speed, durability, and compatibility ensures that it will likely remain relevant and capable of handling future applications. Several buyers believe it will hold up well for years to come.
A few buyers expressed concern that newer, faster storage options might soon make this SSD seem outdated, especially considering its 500GB capacity. While it’s a solid choice now, some feel that larger capacity models might offer better long-term value.
Setup/Installation
91%
The installation process is fast and simple for most users. The M.2 2280 form factor fits easily into most modern PCs, and it works without complications in most systems. Users found that they could quickly install and get it running without needing special tools or extensive technical knowledge.
Though installation is generally easy, some users with non-standard builds or older systems faced issues with compatibility or required BIOS updates. This added some complexity for users unfamiliar with system configurations.

Suitable for:

The GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD is ideal for gamers and content creators who need a significant performance boost in their storage. With read speeds up to 5000 MB/s and write speeds of 2500 MB/s, this SSD is perfect for users who work with demanding applications, such as video editing, large file transfers, or high-end gaming. It’s also a solid choice for PC enthusiasts looking to upgrade their system to PCIe 4.0 for faster data transfer, as well as those who need quick load times for modern games. Its compact M.2 2280 form factor makes installation easy in most gaming PCs and laptops, making it a versatile option for a wide range of setups.

Not suitable for:

However, this SSD may not be the best fit for users on older systems or those with setups that don’t support PCIe 4.0. While it delivers excellent performance on compatible hardware, users with older PCs or laptops might not see the full speed benefits. Additionally, for casual users or those with light workloads, such as basic computing or light gaming, the cost and advanced features of this SSD might not justify the investment. Those looking for a budget option with more storage capacity or less emphasis on speed may also find better alternatives that offer better value for their needs.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 500GB of storage space for fast and reliable data storage.
  • Interface: Uses PCIe 4.0 x4 for faster data transfer speeds compared to previous generations.
  • Sequential Read Speed: Supports sequential read speeds up to 5000 MB/s for quick file access.
  • Sequential Write Speed: Offers sequential write speeds up to 2500 MB/s for fast data writing.
  • Cache Buffer: 512MB DDR4 external cache buffer to improve read and write efficiency.
  • Form Factor: M.2 2280 form factor ensures easy installation in compatible gaming PCs and laptops.
  • Flash Type: 3D TLC NAND Flash provides durability and longer lifespan under heavy use.
  • Controller: Phison E16 controller ensures stable performance and reliable data management.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most gaming PCs, laptops, and consoles that support M.2 NVMe drives.
  • Power Consumption: Low power consumption for energy efficiency while maintaining high performance.
  • Durability: Designed to handle demanding workloads and provide high reliability over time.
  • Dimensions: Compact M.2 2280 dimensions allow easy integration into modern systems.
  • Weight: Weighs 2.4 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to handle during installation.
  • Temperature Range: Operates within a wide temperature range for use in varied environments.
  • MTBF: Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of 1.8 million hours for long-lasting reliability.
  • Storage Expansion: Supports expansion of storage for gaming consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X.
  • Interface Speed: Offers the full benefits of PCIe 4.0 with double the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0.
  • Operating System Support: Supports major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Warranty: Includes a 5-year limited warranty for peace of mind on long-term performance.

FAQ

The GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD delivers blazing-fast read speeds up to 5000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 2500 MB/s, making it ideal for gamers and professionals who need quick data access. Its PCIe 4.0 interface ensures faster data transfer compared to older SSDs, and the 512MB DDR4 cache enhances efficiency for demanding applications.

Installation is straightforward with the M.2 2280 form factor, which is compatible with most modern gaming PCs and laptops. Simply insert the SSD into the M.2 slot, ensure it's securely seated, and screw it in place. The drive should be recognized by most systems automatically, but ensure your motherboard supports PCIe 4.0 for maximum performance.

Yes, the SSD is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0 systems, but it will operate at slower speeds compared to PCIe 4.0 systems. To fully utilize the 5000 MB/s read speed, your system must support PCIe 4.0. For older systems, you will still see a performance improvement over traditional SATA SSDs, but not at the maximum potential.

This drive features 3D TLC NAND Flash, which is known for its durability and longevity. The high-performance design combined with the efficient DDR4 cache helps maintain reliability even under heavy use. Users typically report excellent long-term performance, but like any SSD, its lifespan will depend on usage patterns and total write endurance.

The GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD doesn't come with dedicated management software. However, it is compatible with standard SSD management tools like CrystalDiskInfo, where you can monitor its health and performance. For optimal use, ensure that your operating system is up to date with the latest NVMe drivers.

Gamers will appreciate the fast boot times and near-instant load times when using this SSD. With read speeds up to 5000 MB/s, it significantly reduces the time it takes to load games and textures, providing a smoother gaming experience. Many users have reported noticeable performance improvements, especially in open-world games with large maps.

Yes, this SSD is an excellent choice for content creators, especially those working with large video files. Its fast sequential write speeds of 2500 MB/s allow for quick file transfers and smooth video editing workflows. The 500GB capacity is sufficient for most editing tasks, though larger projects may require additional storage.

If your system doesn't recognize the SSD, first make sure that the M.2 slot supports PCIe 4.0 and that the drive is properly seated. Check for BIOS/UEFI updates from your motherboard manufacturer to ensure compatibility with NVMe drives. If necessary, reinstall drivers or try connecting the drive to a different M.2 slot.

Yes, this SSD is compatible with both the PS5 and Xbox Series X, as long as you are using the M.2 expansion slot for storage upgrades. The PS5 supports PCIe 4.0, so you'll be able to use the full speed of the drive. For Xbox, the SSD is recognized as additional storage but will work at the speed limitations of the console.

The main limitation of the GIGABYTE AORUS 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD is its 500GB capacity, which might be insufficient for users with large media libraries or who work with massive files. Additionally, while it offers exceptional performance, older systems without PCIe 4.0 support will only benefit from reduced speeds, limiting the SSD’s full potential.