What To Know
- The Samsung NVMe SSD 980 offers a respectable 300 TBW (Terabytes Written) for the 250GB model and 600 TBW for the 500GB and 1TB models.
- The 980 Pro, on the other hand, doubles the endurance to 600 TBW for the 250GB model and 1,200 TBW for the 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB models.
- It starts at around $60 for the 250GB model, $100 for the 500GB model, $180 for the 1TB model, and $400 for the 2TB model.
In the realm of storage technology, the choice between Samsung’s NVMe SSD 980 and 980 Pro can be a perplexing one. Both drives promise blazing-fast speeds and cutting-edge performance, but they differ in key aspects that may sway your decision. This comprehensive guide will pit the Samsung NVMe SSD 980 against the 980 Pro, delving into their specifications, performance, and value to help you make an informed choice.
Specifications: Under the Hood
| Feature | Samsung NVMe SSD 980 | Samsung NVMe SSD 980 Pro |
| — | — | — |
| Interface | PCIe 3.0 x4 | PCIe 4.0 x4 |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 |
| Capacity | 250GB, 500GB, 1TB | 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| Read Speed | Up to 3,500 MB/s | Up to 7,000 MB/s |
| Write Speed | Up to 3,000 MB/s | Up to 5,000 MB/s |
| Endurance | 300 TBW (250GB), 600 TBW (500GB), 1,200 TBW (1TB) | 300 TBW (250GB), 600 TBW (500GB), 1,200 TBW (1TB), 2,400 TBW (2TB) |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
Performance: Speed Demons Unleashed
The Samsung NVMe SSD 980 delivers impressive speeds for PCIe 3.0 drives, with read speeds reaching 3,500 MB/s and write speeds hitting 3,000 MB/s. However, the 980 Pro takes the lead with its PCIe 4.0 interface, boasting read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 5,000 MB/s. This significant performance gap is particularly noticeable in demanding applications such as video editing, rendering, and gaming.
Endurance: Longevity Matters
Endurance refers to the amount of data that can be written to the drive before it wears out. The Samsung NVMe SSD 980 offers a respectable 300 TBW (Terabytes Written) for the 250GB model and 600 TBW for the 500GB and 1TB models. The 980 Pro, on the other hand, doubles the endurance to 600 TBW for the 250GB model and 1,200 TBW for the 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB models. This increased endurance makes the 980 Pro more suitable for intensive workloads that involve frequent writes.
Value: Bang for Your Buck
The Samsung NVMe SSD 980 offers a budget-friendly option for those seeking a fast and reliable PCIe 3.0 drive. Its prices start at around $40 for the 250GB model, $60 for the 500GB model, and $120 for the 1TB model. The 980 Pro, with its PCIe 4.0 performance and increased endurance, commands a premium price. It starts at around $60 for the 250GB model, $100 for the 500GB model, $180 for the 1TB model, and $400 for the 2TB model.
Usage Scenarios: Tailoring to Your Needs
The Samsung NVMe SSD 980 is an excellent choice for everyday computing, casual gaming, and content creation. Its PCIe 3.0 speeds are more than sufficient for most tasks, including loading operating systems, running applications, and storing files. The 980 Pro, on the other hand, is ideal for professionals who demand the ultimate performance. Its PCIe 4.0 speeds and high endurance make it perfect for intensive workloads, heavy gaming, and video editing.
Compatibility: Ensuring a Smooth Fit
Both the Samsung NVMe SSD 980 and 980 Pro are compatible with a wide range of motherboards that support PCIe 3.0 or PCIe 4.0 interfaces. However, to fully utilize the 980 Pro’s PCIe 4.0 speeds, you will need a motherboard with a PCIe 4.0 slot.
Final Note: The Verdict
The choice between the Samsung NVMe SSD 980 and 980 Pro ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize value and seek a reliable PCIe 3.0 drive for everyday computing, the 980 is an excellent option. However, if you demand the fastest speeds and highest endurance for demanding workloads, the 980 Pro is the clear winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which drive is better for gaming, the 980 or 980 Pro?
A: For casual gaming, the 980 is sufficient. For competitive gaming and demanding titles, the 980 Pro offers superior performance.
Q: Is the 980 Pro worth the extra cost over the 980?
A: If you need the fastest speeds and highest endurance, the 980 Pro is worth the investment. For most users, the 980 provides ample performance at a lower price.
Q: How long will the 980 and 980 Pro last?
A: With average usage, the 980 and 980 Pro have a lifespan of several years. The 980 Pro’s higher endurance makes it more suitable for intensive workloads.
