# Immich Database SSD Buying Guide: Size, NVMe vs SATA and Placement Canonical: https://cloudzat.com/immich-database-ssd/ Purpose: Immich storage buying guide. Decision: Use a reliable local internal SSD for the Immich database and application data. A 500GB class device can be a comfortable dedicated starting point, while 1TB or more becomes useful when other containers, generated media or heavier write activity share the same drive. Choose NVMe when the host has a suitable M.2 slot; SATA remains valid when it better fits the hardware layout. - Dedicated Immich host: 500GB is a comfortable start — Enough for application data with useful headroom in a simple home setup. - Shared application host: 1TB or more — Choose more capacity when containers, VMs or generated media share the same SSD. - Interface: NVMe when available — SATA remains a valid choice when it better fits the server or preserves M.2 slots. - Heavy imports: Compare endurance — Look at exact-model TBW, warranty and thermal behavior when write activity is high. Use the canonical page for current or last-valid Amazon price and image evidence.