Description
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Crucial |
| Model | BX500 (CT500BX500SSD1) |
| Capacity | 500 GB |
| Form Factor | 2.5″ × 7 mm |
| Interface / Protocol | SATA III (6 Gbps) / AHCI |
| Controller | Silicon Motion SM2259XT2 |
| NAND Flash | Micron 176‑layer QLC |
| Pseudo‑SLC Cache | ~45 GB |
| Sequential Read Speed | Up to 540 MB/s |
| Sequential Write Speed | Up to 500 MB/s (drops after cache) |
| Endurance (TBW) | 120 TBW |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| DRAM Cache | None (DRAM‑less design) |
| Power Consumption | ~0.4 W idle / 0.9 W average / 1.0 W max |
| Use Case | Everyday computing- OS/app upgrade |
Crucial BX500 500 GB SATA 3 – 2.5″ SSD – Full Description
Affordable Solid‑State Upgrade
The Crucial BX500 (model CT500BX500SSD1) delivers a 500 GB capacity in a slim 2.5″ × 7 mm form factor. Designed as an entry-level SSD- it offers a cost-effective way to breathe new life into older desktops or laptops.
Performance Basics & QLC Architecture
Powered by a Silicon Motion SM2259XT2 controller and 176‑layer QLC NAND from Micron- the BX500 lacks DRAM cache but uses a ~45 GB pseudo‑SLC buffer to boost burst writes. Typical sequential speeds reach up to 540 MB/s read and 500 MB/s write.
Real‑World Behavior & Limitations
In general everyday use- the BX500 performs well—booting the OS and launching apps quickly. However- sustained writes (e.g.- moving large files) can drop to ~100 MB/s once the pseudo‑SLC buffer fills. Random small-block performance is modest- common to DRAM-less designs.
Power Efficiency & Warranty
Designed to maximize energy efficiency- the drive typically consumes 0.4 W idle / 0.9 W average / 1.0 W max. Warranty coverage is 3 years- with an endurance rating of 120 TBW- suitable for light to moderate usage.
Use Case & Ideal Audience
Perfect for users upgrading from traditional HDDs who need fast boot times and application load speeds on a budget. Not recommended for professionals handling heavy write workloads- video editing- or high-volume file transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast is this SSD compared to HDDs?
A: It’s significantly faster—sequential read/write speeds up to 540/500 MB/s offer much quicker load times and responsiveness.
Q: Will it slow down under heavy writes?
A: Yes. After the ~45 GB pseudo‑SLC cache is used- write speeds may drop to around 100 MB/s- similar to mechanical drives.
Q: Does it support random small-file performance?
A: It's average at best—DRAM-less architecture limits random 4 K IOPS- so heavy multitasking or large installations may feel slower.
Q: What about long-term reliability?
A: With a rated endurance of 120 TBW (terrabytes written) and a 3‑year warranty- it offers acceptable reliability for light to moderate daily use.
Q: Are there any notable drawbacks?
A: Yes—no DRAM cache- slower sustained write speeds after cache fills- and a low TBW rating- making it less suitable for workloads involving frequent large file writes