Crucial has launched its new BX500 SSD, a next-generation drive designed to provide everyday computing users with a fast and reliable hard drive upgrade. Available in the laptop-friendly 2.5-inch form factor and with 120GB, 240GB, and 480GB capacities, the BX500 provides a shot in the arm for PCs and laptops in need of a pick me up.

With sequential read/write speeds up to 540/500 MB/s, the new BX500 enables faster system boot up, faster file loads, and overall improved system responsiveness. As a solid-state drive, the BX500 has no moving parts, making it a cooler, quieter, and more reliable alternative to a traditional hard drive. Furthermore, because it uses less power than a regular hard drive, it should extend you laptop battery life.

The online Crucial SSD Install Guide provides easy-to-follow steps and videos for stress-free installation, and the included Acronis True Image HD software can be used to migrate data from your old hard drive to the BX500. The Crucial Storage Executive software tool allows users to see how much storage space has been used on the drive, download the latest firmware updates, and improve drive performance. Additionally, the BX500 is backed by award-winning, in-language support via phone, chat, email, and community forum.

The BX500 incorporates data loss protection via the Multistep Data Integrity Algorithm, protection from overheating via Adaptive Thermal Monitoring tools and faster writes via Crucial's Dynamic Write Acceleration technology.

“It's time for computer users to make the transition from hard drives to solid state technology,” said Teresa Kelley, VP - GM, Micron Consumer Products Group. “SSD technology is becoming more mainstream than ever, and for those who are ready to make the switch to solid state, the Crucial BX500 offers performance and reliability at a competitive price from a brand consumers have grown to trust.

The Crucial BX500 SSD is backed by a three-year limited warranty, and is available now from Crucial.com and through select retail partners.