The world of solid-state drives is facing an unusual challenge: prices are climbing, and the culprit isn't a manufacturing shortage, but an insatiable demand from the rapidly expanding world of artificial intelligence datacenters. These massive facilities are consuming SSDs at an unprecedented rate, squeezing the supply available for everyone else.
This year, Black Friday isn’t simply an opportunity to snag a bargain; it might be the last realistic chance for a while to find decent prices on storage. Retailers, aware of the shifting market, are initiating sales earlier than ever, eager to capture holiday spending before competitors do. The pressure is on to act now.
However, not every advertised discount is a genuine win. Savvy shopping is crucial to maximizing savings. Knowing where to look and what to expect is more important than ever in this volatile market. While early deals are appearing, truly worthwhile offers are still relatively scarce.
Currently, a few promising deals have emerged. The Samsung 990 Pro 1TB is available for $110, representing a 24% reduction. Stepping up to the 2TB version of the same drive brings the price to $190, a 22% discount. SK Hynix’s Platinum P51 is also seeing significant price drops, with the 1TB model at $110 (35% off) and the 2TB at $190 (29% off).
Black Friday itself is expected to unleash a wave of even more competitive pricing, potentially driving prices down further. The SK Hynix P51, previously hampered by a high initial price, is now becoming a much more attractive option with these early discounts.
Black Friday officially lands on November 28th this year, but the sales have already begun. Waiting for the actual day carries the risk of missing out on limited-quantity deals that could sell out quickly. Proactive shoppers will be rewarded.
When evaluating SSD deals, prioritize reliability and established brands. A good discount starts around 15-20%, but in the current climate, anything approaching last year’s prices is a victory. Look for deals from Samsung, Crucial, Corsair, SK Hynix, Western Digital, Kingston, Solidigm, and Teamgroup.
Be mindful of the specific model and capacity on sale. Discounts vary, and not all reductions translate into genuine value. Focus on the 1TB to 2TB range, as these are currently seeing the most substantial price cuts. Larger capacities and smaller drives haven’t experienced the same level of discounting.
Ultimately, the key to a successful Black Friday SSD purchase is informed decision-making. Understanding the market forces at play and knowing what constitutes a good deal will empower you to secure the storage you need at the best possible price.
