What To Know
- The Samsung SSD 850 Pro boasts impressive sequential read/write speeds of up to 550/520 MB/s, making it one of the fastest SATA SSDs on the market.
- The Samsung SSD 850 Pro features a generous 1GB of DDR3 cache, which acts as a buffer between the NAND and the host system.
- The Samsung SSD 850 Pro has a rated lifespan of up to 150 TBW, which translates to many years of reliable operation under normal usage.
In the competitive landscape of solid-state drives (SSDs), two giants stand out: the Samsung SSD 850 Pro and the Kingston A400. Both devices promise superior performance and reliability, but which one emerges as the true champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of these SSDs to help you make an informed decision.
Performance: Speed and Responsiveness
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro boasts impressive sequential read/write speeds of up to 550/520 MB/s, making it one of the fastest SATA SSDs on the market. Its advanced V-NAND technology ensures consistent performance even under heavy workloads.
In contrast, the Kingston A400 offers decent sequential speeds of up to 500/450 MB/s. However, its performance may fluctuate under sustained usage due to its TLC NAND architecture.
Endurance: Longevity and Reliability
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro excels in endurance, with a rated lifespan of up to 150 TBW (Terabytes Written). This means it can handle extreme write workloads and is ideal for demanding applications.
The Kingston A400 has a lower endurance rating of 160 GBW (Gigabytes Written), indicating its suitability for general-purpose use and moderate write operations.
NAND Technology: The Foundation of Performance
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro utilizes MLC (Multi-Level Cell) NAND, which stores two bits of data per cell. This provides higher performance and endurance compared to TLC (Triple-Level Cell) NAND.
The Kingston A400 employs TLC NAND, which stores three bits of data per cell. While it offers higher capacity at a lower cost, it sacrifices some performance and endurance.
Cache: Boosting Performance
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro features a generous 1GB of DDR3 cache, which acts as a buffer between the NAND and the host system. This cache significantly enhances performance by reducing latency and improving data access speeds.
The Kingston A400 has a smaller 256MB of DDR3L cache, which may limit its performance in certain scenarios.
Compatibility: Seamless Integration
Both the Samsung SSD 850 Pro and Kingston A400 are compatible with the 2.5-inch form factor and SATA III interface. They can be easily installed in laptops, desktops, and compatible enclosures.
Price and Value: Striking the Balance
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro commands a premium price due to its superior performance and reliability. The Kingston A400, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option for general-purpose use.
Ultimately, the best value depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Bottom Line: Determining the Champion
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro emerges as the clear winner in this comparison. It delivers exceptional performance, endurance, and reliability, making it the ideal choice for demanding applications and users who prioritize speed and longevity.
The Kingston A400, while offering decent performance at a lower price point, is more suited for general-purpose use and budget-conscious consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SSD is better for gaming?
A: The Samsung SSD 850 Pro provides superior performance and is more suitable for gaming, especially for loading games and textures quickly.
Q: How long will the Samsung SSD 850 Pro last?
A: The Samsung SSD 850 Pro has a rated lifespan of up to 150 TBW, which translates to many years of reliable operation under normal usage.
Q: Can I use the Kingston A400 for video editing?
A: The Kingston A400 is not recommended for video editing due to its lower endurance and potential performance limitations under sustained workloads.
