What To Know
- The Samsung SSD 980 Pro boasts a staggering 1,200 TBW (Terabytes Written) for its 1TB model, while the WD Black SN850 offers a slightly lower but still respectable 600 TBW for its 1TB model.
- While the 980 Pro offers a higher endurance rating and slightly faster sequential write speeds, the SN850 provides better random read and write performance at a more affordable price.
- The 980 Pro has a slight edge in sequential write speeds and endurance, while the SN850 excels in random read and write performance and offers a more affordable price.
In the realm of high-performance storage, the Samsung SSD 980 Pro and WD Black SN850 stand as two of the most formidable contenders. Both NVMe SSDs boast impressive speeds, cutting-edge technology, and unwavering reliability, making them ideal for demanding workloads and enthusiast PCs. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricate details of the Samsung SSD 980 Pro vs WD Black SN850 to determine which one reigns supreme.
Performance: A Neck-and-Neck Race
Speed is the lifeblood of any SSD, and both the Samsung SSD 980 Pro and WD Black SN850 deliver blistering performance. The 980 Pro boasts sequential read and write speeds of up to 7,000 MB/s and 5,000 MB/s, respectively, while the SN850 offers slightly lower but still impressive speeds of 6,500 MB/s and 5,300 MB/s.
However, it’s in random read and write operations where the SN850 shines. It delivers up to 1,000,000 IOPS for both read and write, while the 980 Pro falls slightly behind with 900,000 IOPS for read and 800,000 IOPS for write. This makes the SN850 a better choice for applications that require consistent and highly responsive performance.
Endurance: A Matter of Longevity
Endurance is a crucial factor for SSDs, especially those intended for heavy use. The Samsung SSD 980 Pro boasts a staggering 1,200 TBW (Terabytes Written) for its 1TB model, while the WD Black SN850 offers a slightly lower but still respectable 600 TBW for its 1TB model.
This means that the 980 Pro can endure more write operations before it reaches its end-of-life, making it a more suitable option for highly demanding workloads such as video editing, rendering, and large file transfers.
Technology: Cutting-Edge Innovation
Both the Samsung SSD 980 Pro and WD Black SN850 employ state-of-the-art technology to deliver exceptional performance and reliability. The 980 Pro utilizes Samsung’s proprietary V-NAND technology, which enhances cell density and performance by stacking memory cells vertically.
The SN850, on the other hand, features WD’s 3D NAND technology and a custom-designed NVMe controller for improved data transfer efficiency and reduced latency. Both SSDs also support PCIe 4.0, the latest and fastest interface for NVMe SSDs, ensuring maximum bandwidth and performance.
Form Factor: Compact and Versatile
Both the Samsung SSD 980 Pro and WD Black SN850 come in the standard M.2 2280 form factor, making them compatible with most modern motherboards. This compact size allows for easy installation and utilization of limited space in small form factor builds.
Software and Features: Enhancing the User Experience
Samsung and WD provide robust software suites to accompany their respective SSDs. Samsung’s Magician software offers a comprehensive set of tools for monitoring, optimizing, and maintaining the 980 Pro. It includes features such as performance optimization, secure erase, and firmware updates.
WD’s SSD Dashboard software provides similar capabilities for the SN850. It allows users to monitor drive health, perform diagnostic scans, and update firmware. Both software suites enhance the user experience by providing valuable tools and insights into the performance and maintenance of the SSDs.
Pricing: A Matter of Value
The Samsung SSD 980 Pro and WD Black SN850 are both premium NVMe SSDs, and their pricing reflects their high performance and features. The 1TB model of the 980 Pro typically retails for around $150, while the 1TB model of the SN850 sells for about $130.
While the 980 Pro offers a higher endurance rating and slightly faster sequential write speeds, the SN850 provides better random read and write performance at a more affordable price. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the specific requirements and budget of the user.
The Verdict: A Close Call
In the battle between the Samsung SSD 980 Pro and WD Black SN850, there is no clear winner. Both SSDs offer exceptional performance, cutting-edge technology, and reliable endurance. The 980 Pro has a slight edge in sequential write speeds and endurance, while the SN850 excels in random read and write performance and offers a more affordable price.
For users who prioritize raw speed and longevity, the Samsung SSD 980 Pro is the ideal choice. However, if random performance and value are more important, the WD Black SN850 is a compelling option. Ultimately, the best decision depends on the individual needs and preferences of the user.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which SSD is faster, the Samsung SSD 980 Pro or the WD Black SN850?
A: Both SSDs offer impressive speeds, but the WD Black SN850 has a slight edge in random read and write performance.
Q: Which SSD has better endurance, the Samsung SSD 980 Pro or the WD Black SN850?
A: The Samsung SSD 980 Pro has a higher endurance rating, with 1,200 TBW compared to the SN850’s 600 TBW.
Q: Which SSD is more affordable, the Samsung SSD 980 Pro or the WD Black SN850?
A: The WD Black SN850 is generally more affordable than the Samsung SSD 980 Pro, especially for the 1TB model.
