Compare WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB and Crucial T500 2TB: prices, speeds, $/TB. Which to buy in May 2026? Full spec breakdown.
Both run on Gen 4 hardware but at different capacities: 4 TB for the WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB versus 2 TB for the Crucial T500 2TB. Whether the larger drive's $/TB advantage justifies the higher upfront cost depends on how much you actually need.
Hardware-wise, the WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB runs on WD's second-generation G2 in-house controller, tuned for sustained gaming I/O. The Crucial T500 2TB pairs Phison's E25 silicon, found in many DRAM-equipped Gen 4 SSDs.
On warranty endurance the WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB carries 2,400 TBW against Crucial T500 2TB's 1,200 TBW. Both will outlast typical use, but the gap matters if you're doing professional content work.
For PS5 expansion, both are PCIe Gen 4 M.2 2280 drives that meet Sony's minimum spec (7,300 MB/s read). The console can't take advantage of speeds beyond that, so save money by choosing the WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB. Both drives use the 2280 form factor, which is too long for Steam Deck or ROG Ally — you'd need a 2230 variant if either manufacturer offers one, or a dedicated handheld-format drive instead.
Pick the WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB if you value better $/TB economics ($89.75/TB), and a higher TBW endurance rating (2,400 TBW). The SN850X has been the best-selling Gen 4 NVMe in PCPartPicker builds for two consecutive years — Game Mode 2.0 prioritizes I/O when supported titles need it.
Pick the Crucial T500 2TB if you value the lower retail price ($189 vs $359). Crucial typically delivers the best $/TB among DRAM-equipped NVMes because Micron sells direct rather than going through brand licensing.