Spurred by the latest advances in computing and gaming technology, PCIe Gen 5 (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express Generation 5) SSDs are redefining storage performance boundaries. With nearly double the bandwidth of PCIe Gen 4, these high-speed drives push the limits of what your system can deliver in responsiveness, load times, and data throughput. If you’re a power user, content creator, or hardcore gamer looking to future-proof your setup, now is the perfect time to consider a PCIe 5.0 SSD.
TL;DR
PCIe Gen 5 SSDs mark a major leap in performance, offering blazing-fast read and write speeds that cater to high-end computing needs. Whether you’re upgrading for professional applications or top-tier gaming, these SSDs significantly reduce loading times and improve system responsiveness. While pricing remains slightly higher than Gen 4 drives, the performance gains are substantial for those seeking the best. We’ve highlighted the top picks currently available, including key specs and use-case recommendations.
What Is PCIe Gen 5 and Why Does It Matter?
PCIe Gen 5 doubles the bandwidth of its predecessor, delivering up to 16 GT/s (gigatransfers per second) per lane compared to Gen 4’s 8 GT/s. This translates to theoretical maximum speeds of:
- Up to 14,000 MB/s read speeds
- Up to 12,000 MB/s write speeds
Because SSDs are now being pushed to serve larger game files, 4K and 8K video editing, and real-time rendering tasks, the benefits of switching to Gen 5 are clearly evident. The increased bandwidth allows for not only larger capacity drives but also minimal bottlenecks in high-throughput scenarios.
System Requirements
Before investing in a Gen 5 SSD, ensure your system is compatible. You’ll need:
- A motherboard with a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot (common on Intel 12th/13th/14th Gen and AMD Ryzen 7000 series platforms)
- A CPU that supports PCIe Gen 5 lanes
- A quality heatsink or built-in SSD cooling solution (Gen 5 SSDs can get hot)
It’s also good to remember that even if you plug a Gen 5 SSD into an older M.2 slot, you’ll only achieve the maximum speed that slot supports—meaning you need full PCIe 5.0 end-to-end to leverage the full speed benefits.
Best PCIe Gen 5 SSDs in 2024
1. Sabrent Rocket 5 Gen 5 NVMe SSD
Known for pushing boundaries, Sabrent delivers one of the fastest consumer Gen 5 SSDs on the market. The Rocket 5 uses the Phison E26 controller and TLC NAND to achieve read speeds of up to 14,000 MB/s.
- Capacity options: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
- Sequential Read/Write: 14,000 / 11,800 MB/s
- Heatsink: Optional version includes massive heatsink with active cooling
This drive is best for high-performance workstations and demanding computing loads. Gamers will also appreciate the reduced loading times and improved texture streaming.
2. Crucial T700 PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD
The Crucial T700 is another standout in the Gen 5 space, delivering both value and top-tier performance. It features Micron’s advanced 232-layer TLC NAND and comes with or without a heatsink.
- Sequential Read/Write: 12,400 / 11,800 MB/s
- Warranty: 5-year limited warranty
- Extras: Available as a Heatsink or Bare version, making it flexible for different builds
Its balance of raw speed and affordability makes it ideal for creators and gamers alike who want maximum performance without going overboard on cost.
3. ADATA Legend 970 PCIe Gen5 SSD
ADATA’s Legend 970 has made waves as a budget-friendly Gen 5 option with active cooling and respectable performance.
- Sequential Read/Write: Up to 10,000 / 10,000 MB/s
- Cooling: Active dual-fan heatsink built-in
- Form factor: M.2 2280
While not quite as fast as the top-tier models, its consistent performance and stability make it perfect for users upgrading from Gen 3 or Gen 4 drives who want a taste of Gen 5 power without the premium price.
4. Gigabyte AORUS Gen5 10000 SSD
Targeted primarily at enthusiasts and gamers, the AORUS Gen5 10000 SSD does not skimp on specs. With real-world performance that keeps up with premium competitors, it’s an excellent addition to high-end builds.
- Sequential Read/Write: 10,000 / 9,500 MB/s
- Includes: Large aluminum heatsink
- Designed for: Gaming rigs and professional workstations
Its reliability and optimized firmware offer a stable experience with top speeds for both booting and large file transfers.
Cooling Considerations
One of the key considerations for PCIe 5.0 SSDs is thermal management. These drives produce significantly more heat than their Gen 4 counterparts. Many come with pre-installed heatsinks, and some even use active cooling fans.
It’s essential to ensure good airflow in your case and to regularly monitor temperatures if you’re under heavy workload conditions. Overheating can lead to thermal throttling, which negates the performance gains of Gen 5.
Price vs. Performance: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
While PCIe Gen 5 SSDs offer jaw-dropping numbers, not all users will need or notice the performance improvements. If your use case is limited to typical office applications, streaming, and light gaming, you won’t benefit much compared to cheaper Gen 4 drives.
On the other hand, users who work daily with large 4K/8K video files, CAD projects, or massive game libraries will see fast transfer times, responsive loading, and future-certainty with Gen 5 technology.
Upgrading Tips
If you’re planning to switch to a Gen 5 SSD, keep these tips in mind:
- Check motherboard support: Refer to your motherboard manual to identify a PCIe 5.0-compliant M.2 slot.
- BIOS update: Update your BIOS to the latest version to ensure maximum compatibility.
- Use proper cooling: Don’t ignore the importance of active or passive cooling to avoid throttling.
Conclusion
The leap from PCIe Gen 4 to Gen 5 SSDs is not just incremental—it’s transformational. While pricing is still on the higher end and availability may vary, the gains in speed and responsiveness are undeniable for power users. From the blistering-fast Sabrent Rocket 5 to the balanced Crucial T700, there is a Gen 5 SSD to suit a range of needs and budgets.
Whether you’re building a next-gen gaming PC, editing uncompressed 4K footage, or just want the bleeding edge in storage tech, PCIe Gen 5 SSDs are the new standard for uncompromised speed. Just make sure your platform supports it and that you have adequate thermal solutions in place to make the most of the performance they offer.
