Prospects for computer hardware costs in 2026 appear challenging, particularly for storage devices and memory modules, as rates have increased lately. The surge stems from the growing needs of AI data facilities.
Unlike in prior years, this Cyber Monday represents more than just an opportunity for savings; it may offer the final window to secure worthwhile bargains for some time. With overall expenses climbing, identifying truly valuable reductions proves difficult, and certain offers fall short. Our curated selection highlights the most compelling SSD and storage promotions available.
Our selection process focuses on highly regarded, in-demand drives priced at or close to their historical lows. Act quickly on appealing options, given the intensifying supply constraints. Prime offers tend to disappear fast, potentially leading to regret for those who hesitate.
Refreshed as of December 1, 2025, with updated costs and the inclusion of the 1TB Crucial X10 model.
This year's Cyber Monday SSD promotions seem less vibrant overall, yet several noteworthy ones emerge. The compact 2230 edition of the Crucial P310 suits Steam Deck users exceptionally well. Although the Samsung 990 Pro's cost has risen partly from broader market pressures, it delivers dependable performance at a fair markdown currently.
For sheer volume of data, traditional external hard drives remain unmatched. The Seagate 24TB external HDD, priced at about $10 per terabyte, stands out as an exceptional value with its vast capacity. It earns our top endorsement for external HDD discounts at present, though Western Digital options also feature attractive reductions if smaller sizes or different brands appeal.
External SSD options have seen some solid promotions appear recently. A standout is the 4TB Crucial X10, which doubles the speed of its X9 predecessor and received a 4.5 out of 5 rating in testing. Additionally, it boasts IP65 weather resistance.
Explore our compilations of leading PC hardware bargains across various sectors.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday events can yield substantial savings on storage solutions, potentially hundreds of dollars on large-capacity units. Success hinges on distinguishing genuine value from mediocre offers. We have examined trusted e-commerce sites to identify proven products with authentic price drops.
Pricing varies based on the standard market or list value of the SSD variant, influenced by factors like drive type, size, and performance level. One note: Baseline prices have escalated over the last year, driven by intense demand from AI data centers.
This season, anticipate spending roughly $100 to $110 for a 1TB NVMe Gen 4 SSD, and $130 to $170 for a 2TB version. A straightforward approach involves seeking reductions of 15 to 20 percent or higher, adjusted for the specific product.
Storage makers do not create exclusive versions for holiday shopping events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday. The items on offer match those sold year-round in stores or online.
Premier holiday discounts lower costs on SSDs and HDDs from trusted manufacturers. Discounts beginning at 15 to 20 percent qualify as strong, while 30 percent or greater marks an outstanding opportunity. Larger-capacity SSDs often deliver the deepest savings.
For reliable choices, prioritize established brands such as Samsung, Crucial, Corsair, SK Hynix, and Western Digital. Alternatives like Kingston, Solidigm, and TeamGroup work well too. Venturing to lesser-known labels increases the risk of suboptimal speed and performance.
Examine specific models carefully, as multiple variants from one company may appear in promotions. Ideal targets include rare markdowns on premium performers and sharp cuts on economical picks.
A key consideration involves selecting the right drive type. Budget-conscious users with room for a 2.5-inch slot in laptops or desktops will find a basic SATA SSD a dramatic improvement over mechanical hard drives for booting. SATA options in slim M.2 formats persist but grow scarce amid the prevalence of quicker NVMe drives.
When weighing NVMe Gen 4 against Gen 5, a Gen 4 unit provides robust velocity for most needs. Opt for Gen 5 if handling massive files demands peak speeds, offering superior longevity. For gaming rigs or basic productivity setups, Gen 4 remains a solid choice.
Uncertain about options? Consult our comprehensive SSD selection guide for in-depth comparisons of solid-state drive categories.
PCWorld evaluates fresh SSDs monthly, so for recommendations independent of sales, review our 2025 top SSD rankings. That said, top-rated models occasionally feature in November promotions.
Alaina Yee, with 14 years in tech and gaming media, contributes to PCWorld on diverse subjects. Joining in 2016, she has covered processors, operating systems, system assembly, browsers, single-board computers, and beyond, while excelling as the team's deal spotter. Her current emphasis lies in cybersecurity, guiding users on online protection. Previous publications include PC Gamer, IGN, Maximum PC, and Official Xbox Magazine.