Best Intel MLC SSDs
There are 5 Intel MLC SSDs compared here. The fastest is the Intel SSD 750 at 2400 MB/s read, and the highest-rated for endurance is the Intel 730 (128 TBW). Sequential reads across the group span 540–2400 MB/s.
Why this configuration
A Intel MLC SSD is a legacy endurance choice. MLC stores two bits per cell instead of three, so these older drives take far more rewriting than a modern budget drive, at a much higher cost per gigabyte. Intel specifically tends to be chosen here for its firmware track record and warranty support.
Usually chosen for: write-heavy secondary roles and keeping older machines useful.
Good fit: mainstream desktop and laptop builds.
Ranked list
| # | Model | Tier | Controller | Read MB/s | TBW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Intel SSD 750 400GB, 800GB, 1.2TB | High-end | Intel CH29AE41AB0 | 2400 | 127.75 | Find on Amazon |
| 2 |  Intel 520 128GB, 250GB, 180GB | Mid-range | LSI SandForce SF-2281 | 550 | 36 | Find on Amazon |
| 3 |  Intel 525 mSATA 128GB, 250GB, 30GB, 60GB, 180GB | Mid-range | SandForce’s SF-2281 | 550 | — | Find on Amazon |
| 4 |  Intel 530 128GB, 250GB, 500GB, 80GB, 180GB, 360GB | Mid-range | SandForce SF-2281 | 540 | 36.5 | Find on Amazon |
| 5 |  Intel 730 250GB, 500GB | — | INTEL 3º Generation PC29AS21CA0ADQ | 550 | 128 | Find on Amazon |
The parts, explained
MLC NAND is older and costs more per gigabyte, but is very durable.
Staying with Intel means consistent firmware, tooling and warranty handling across the range.