What To Know
- It boasts sequential read speeds of up to 7,000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 5,000 MB/s, while the 980 offers speeds of up to 3,500 MB/s read and 3,000 MB/s write.
- However, if you are on a tighter budget or do not require the highest level of performance, the 980 provides a solid option with good overall performance and value.
- The 980 Pro is the clear winner for users who demand the absolute best in speed and endurance, while the 980 offers a more budget-friendly option with still-impressive performance.
Introduction:
In the realm of storage solutions, Samsung’s SSD 980 series has emerged as a formidable contender. With the 980 and 980 Pro models, Samsung offers two compelling options for users seeking blazing-fast performance and ample capacity. But which one should you choose? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Samsung SSD 980 vs Pro, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance: Speed and Endurance
Sequential Read/Write Speeds:
The 980 Pro outshines the 980 in terms of raw speed. It boasts sequential read speeds of up to 7,000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 5,000 MB/s, while the 980 offers speeds of up to 3,500 MB/s read and 3,000 MB/s write. This makes the 980 Pro ideal for demanding applications that require lightning-fast data transfer.
Random Read/Write IOPS:
For operations involving small data blocks, the 980 Pro also excels with random read IOPS of up to 1,000,000 and write IOPS of up to 800,000. The 980, on the other hand, offers random read IOPS of up to 500,000 and write IOPS of up to 400,000. This enhanced IOPS performance makes the 980 Pro a suitable choice for applications that require fast and consistent data access.
Endurance (TBW):
When it comes to durability, the 980 Pro boasts a higher endurance rating than the 980. The 980 Pro offers endurance ratings of up to 600 TBW (terabytes written), while the 980 has endurance ratings of up to 300 TBW. This means that the 980 Pro can handle more intensive write operations before wearing out.
Features: NVMe and Cache
NVMe Interface:
Both the 980 and 980 Pro utilize the NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) interface, providing direct access to the PCIe bus for optimal performance. This eliminates the bottleneck of the SATA interface, enabling significantly faster data transfer speeds.
Cache:
The 980 Pro features a larger cache size than the 980. The 980 Pro comes with a 1GB LPDDR4 cache, while the 980 offers a 512MB LPDDR4 cache. A larger cache allows the SSD to store more frequently accessed data, reducing the need to access the slower NAND flash memory and improving overall performance.
Form Factor and Capacity
Form Factor:
The 980 and 980 Pro are both available in the M.2 2280 form factor, making them compatible with most modern motherboards and laptops.
Capacity:
Both the 980 and 980 Pro come in a range of capacities, including 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB. This allows users to choose the capacity that best suits their storage needs and budget.
Price and Value
Price:
The 980 Pro typically commands a higher price than the 980 due to its superior performance and features. However, the price difference varies depending on the capacity and specific retailer.
Value:
The choice between the 980 and 980 Pro ultimately depends on your specific requirements and budget. If you prioritize raw speed and endurance for demanding applications, the 980 Pro offers exceptional value. However, if you are on a tighter budget or do not require the highest level of performance, the 980 provides a solid option with good overall performance and value.
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Samsung SSD
Whether you choose the Samsung SSD 980 or 980 Pro, you can expect a high-performance storage solution that will enhance your computing experience. The 980 Pro is the clear winner for users who demand the absolute best in speed and endurance, while the 980 offers a more budget-friendly option with still-impressive performance. By carefully considering your needs and budget, you can make an informed decision and choose the Samsung SSD that is right for you.
What You Need to Know
1. Which SSD is faster, the 980 or 980 Pro?
The 980 Pro has faster sequential and random read/write speeds than the 980.
2. Which SSD has higher endurance?
The 980 Pro has a higher endurance rating than the 980, with up to 600 TBW compared to 300 TBW.
3. Which SSD has a larger cache size?
The 980 Pro has a larger 1GB LPDDR4 cache compared to the 980’s 512MB LPDDR4 cache.
4. Which SSD is more expensive?
The 980 Pro typically commands a higher price than the 980 due to its superior performance and features.
5. Which SSD is better for gaming?
Both the 980 and 980 Pro are suitable for gaming, but the 980 Pro offers faster load times and better performance for demanding games.
