Storage Showdown: Samsung Ssd 850 Pro Vs Kingston A400 – Which Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- The Samsung SSD 850 Pro boasts sequential read and write speeds of up to 550MB/s and 520MB/s, respectively, while the Kingston A400 offers sequential read and write speeds of up to 500MB/s and 450MB/s.
- This means that the Samsung SSD 850 Pro can handle significantly more write operations than the Kingston A400, which has a rated endurance of 160TBW for the 240GB model and 320TBW for the 480GB and 960GB models.
- In terms of capacity, both drives offer a wide range of options, from 128GB to 1TB for the Samsung SSD 850 Pro and from 120GB to 960GB for the Kingston A400.
The world of solid-state drives (SSDs) is vast and ever-evolving, with new models emerging regularly. Two of the most popular and highly regarded SSDs on the market are the Samsung SSD 850 Pro and the Kingston A400. Both drives offer exceptional performance, reliability, and durability, but they also have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the intricate details of the Samsung SSD 850 Pro vs Kingston A400, helping you make an informed decision about which SSD is the ideal choice for your specific needs and requirements.
Performance: A Close Contest
When it comes to raw performance, both the Samsung SSD 850 Pro and the Kingston A400 deliver impressive results. The Samsung SSD 850 Pro boasts sequential read and write speeds of up to 550MB/s and 520MB/s, respectively, while the Kingston A400 offers sequential read and write speeds of up to 500MB/s and 450MB/s. In real-world usage, these differences in sequential speeds are often negligible, especially for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, or working on documents. However, power users and professionals who frequently work with large files or engage in intensive multitasking may notice a slight edge in performance with the Samsung SSD 850 Pro.
Endurance: Longevity and Reliability
One of the key factors to consider when choosing an SSD is its endurance, which refers to its ability to withstand write cycles before failure. The Samsung SSD 850 Pro excels in this aspect, with a rated endurance of 300TBW (terabytes written) for the 250GB model and 600TBW for the 500GB and 1TB models. This means that the Samsung SSD 850 Pro can handle significantly more write operations than the Kingston A400, which has a rated endurance of 160TBW for the 240GB model and 320TBW for the 480GB and 960GB models. For users who frequently write large amounts of data to their SSD, the Samsung SSD 850 Pro offers superior longevity and peace of mind.
NAND Flash Technology: TLC vs MLC
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro utilizes MLC (multi-level cell) NAND flash technology, while the Kingston A400 employs TLC (triple-level cell) NAND flash technology. MLC NAND flash stores two bits of data per cell, while TLC NAND flash stores three bits of data per cell. This difference in storage density allows TLC NAND flash to offer higher capacities at lower cost compared to MLC NAND flash. However, MLC NAND flash generally provides better performance, reliability, and endurance than TLC NAND flash. Therefore, the Samsung SSD 850 Pro with its MLC NAND flash has an advantage in terms of overall performance and longevity.
Form Factor and Capacity
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro and the Kingston A400 are both available in the standard 2.5-inch form factor, making them compatible with most laptops and desktop computers. However, the Samsung SSD 850 Pro also offers an M.2 form factor option, which is ideal for ultra-slim laptops and compact systems where space is at a premium. In terms of capacity, both drives offer a wide range of options, from 128GB to 1TB for the Samsung SSD 850 Pro and from 120GB to 960GB for the Kingston A400. This allows users to choose the capacity that best suits their storage needs and budget.
Price and Warranty
The Samsung SSD 850 Pro typically carries a higher price tag compared to the Kingston A400, reflecting its superior performance, endurance, and MLC NAND flash technology. However, the exact price of each drive can vary depending on the capacity and retailer. Both drives come with a generous warranty, with the Samsung SSD 850 Pro offering a 10-year warranty and the Kingston A400 offering a 5-year warranty. This demonstrates the manufacturers’ confidence in the quality and reliability of their respective products.
Takeaways: Choosing the Right SSD for Your Needs
Ultimately, the choice between the Samsung SSD 850 Pro and the Kingston A400 depends on your specific requirements and budget. If you prioritize raw performance, exceptional endurance, and the peace of mind that comes with a longer warranty, the Samsung SSD 850 Pro is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option that still offers solid performance and reliability, the Kingston A400 is a great choice. Regardless of your decision, both the Samsung SSD 850 Pro and the Kingston A400 represent excellent options in the world of solid-state drives.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Q: Which SSD is better for gaming: the Samsung SSD 850 Pro or the Kingston A400?
A: Both SSDs offer excellent performance for gaming, but the Samsung SSD 850 Pro has a slight edge due to its faster sequential read and write speeds.
2. Q: Which SSD is more suitable for video editing and content creation?
A: The Samsung SSD 850 Pro is the better choice for video editing and content creation due to its superior endurance and MLC NAND flash technology, which provide better overall performance and reliability for demanding workloads.
3. Q: Is the Samsung SSD 850 Pro worth the extra cost compared to the Kingston A400?
A: The Samsung SSD 850 Pro offers better performance, endurance, and a longer warranty, so it may be worth the extra cost for users who prioritize these factors. However, the Kingston A400 is a more budget-friendly option that still delivers solid performance for everyday use.
