Best SSDs to replace my flash drive used for Merlin addons config/storage

[chris2025]

I've been using a thumb drive for a few weeks to test out some merlin add-ons with my AX86U, specifically Tailmon, Diversion, Skynet, and AdGuard Home... so far no issues, but I'd like to switch to an SSD for long term stability.

I checked out the recommendations provided in the above comments and linked thread - thank you.
I'll probably go with either the Orico or Sabrent enclosures. As for the SSD itself, given the skyrocketing prices so far in 2026 (thanks AI), have the recommendations changed? It looks like even the cheapest ones now go for $40-$50 minumum... I need to get three for 3 different residences. Still recommend Patriot or equivalent at those prices, or better off going to Crucial or Samsung for some more $? Or maybe I just take my chances with the thumb drives for now, ha.

All other router functions will still work if the usb drive fails, correct? Just the merlin add-on script-dependent functions would stop running, like tailscale and diversion, correct?

 

[Tech9]

Still recommend Patriot or equivalent at those prices, or better off going to Crucial or Samsung for some more $?

Any recognizable brand SSD is okay.

 

[Ripshod]

Don't go with the cheapest (Chinese) drives if you want reliability, but at the same time don't go for the best/fastest as the usb interface will choke any performance. You don't need a large drive either. You can see in my signature I'm using a Kingston 120GB, that's in a clear orico case. Even with all those addons and a swap file I'm only using 2.4GB of that.

All other router functions will still work if the usb drive fails, correct?

Never really had a problem if the ssd fails, but I imagine an add-on like Diversion failing could cause issues. One add-on that I consider a must is BACKUPMON - easy recovery should an ssd fail.