Samsung 990 EVO Plus vs Crucial T500 Comparison and Guide
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Choosing between the Samsung 990 EVO Plus and the Crucial T500 can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of specifications and performance metrics to consider. Both SSDs promise exceptional performance, but understanding their nuances will help you make an informed decision. Let's dive deep into their features, benchmarks, and overall value.
Understanding Theoretical Specifications
The performance landscape of SSDs is complex. The Samsung 990 EVO Plus is a DRAM-less NVMe drive that utilizes Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology to compensate for the absence of onboard DRAM. This architecture allows it to function effectively, but it comes with trade-offs in latency and throughput under certain workloads.
On the other hand, the Crucial T500 is a DRAM-equipped SSD that aims to deliver superior sustained performance, particularly in multitasking and high-demand scenarios. It’s designed with a dedicated controller and optimized algorithms, showcasing a focus on performance consistency.
While the Samsung model boasts a sequential read speed of approximately 7,250 MB/s and write speed of about 6,300 MB/s, the T500 claims even better specifications with reads up to 7,300 MB/s and writes reaching 6,800 MB/s—variances that could be crucial depending on your usage.
Benchmark Scores Comparison
To truly understand how these drives perform, we need to look at their benchmark scores. The following tests were conducted using the 2TB variants of both SSDs.
PCMark 10 Full Drive Benchmark
The results reveal that the Crucial T500 outperforms the Samsung 990 EVO Plus, scoring 4,781 against 4,514, yielding a performance difference of about 6%. This difference indicates that for everyday tasks like launching applications and file transfers, the T500’s DRAM-equipped design provides a more responsive experience.
3DMark Storage Test for Gamers
In gaming-centric evaluations, the T500 continues to hold a slight edge, registering a score of 5,068 compared to the 4,753 of the 990 EVO Plus. This translates to approximately a 6.6% advantage, particularly beneficial for handling game installations and large asset-heavy applications.
CrystalDiskMark Sequential Read/Write Performance
When it comes to sequential reading and writing, the T500 showcases a significant advantage, particularly in single-queue transfers:
- QD1 Sequential Read: T500 +36.8%
- QD1 Sequential Write: T500 +9%
These figures illustrate the T500's superior performance in tasks like loading large files or installing games, making it a preferable choice for users frequently engaging in such activities.
CrystalDiskMark Random Read/Write Performance
In random read and write tests, the T500 outperforms the Samsung 990 EVO Plus across various metrics:
- Low-Queue Read: T500 +4.7%
- Low-Queue Write: T500 +10%
- High-Queue Read: T500 +16.4%
- High-Queue Write: T500 +18.3%
This efficiency in random I/O operations, especially under heavy loads, is a clear indication of the T500’s enhanced capabilities.
Power Consumption and Efficiency
While performance is crucial, power efficiency is also a key consideration, especially for users of laptops and compact systems. The Samsung 990 EVO Plus shows superiority in power efficiency, consuming about 25% less power under load and operating cooler during extended use.
Conversely, the Crucial T500 exhibits lower power consumption when idle, approximately 14% less, which can be advantageous during light usage or when the system is not under heavy load. This duality in performance and efficiency reflects the differing philosophies behind each SSD's design.
TBW, DWPD, MTBF, and Warranty
Both SSDs provide similar ratings in terms of Total Bytes Written (TBW) and Drive Writes Per Day (DWPD), indicating a solid reliability under normal conditions. However, the T500 offers a higher Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF), suggesting a greater reliability potential during intensive workloads.
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus, with its advanced controller technology, is engineered for thermal stability and power efficiency, making it suitable for laptops. Nevertheless, the T500’s greater SLC cache size significantly enhances burst write performance, especially effective for large file transfers.
Price Considerations
When it comes to pricing, the Crucial T500 generally carries a higher price tag due to its enhanced features and performance capabilities. Currently, the 1TB variant of the T500 is priced at around $99.99, while the 1TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus retails for approximately $69.99. This price difference might play a critical role in your decision-making process.
It is essential to consider not just the purchase price but also the price-per-GB and what you are getting in terms of performance. The Samsung 990 EVO Plus may be more appealing for budget-conscious users looking for decent performance without breaking the bank.
In summary, while the T500 stands out in performance, the Samsung 990 EVO Plus offers a cost-effective solution for users who may not require the absolute best, allowing them to enjoy substantial upgrades without significant expenditure.
Real-World Usage and Suitability
When evaluating these SSDs, consider your actual usage scenarios. If you're a gamer or content creator, the enhanced performance of the T500 will be beneficial, especially in high-demand applications and multitasking environments. For average users who engage primarily in web browsing, document editing, and light gaming, the Samsung 990 EVO Plus serves as a capable and cost-effective option.
Ultimately, the choice between the Samsung 990 EVO Plus and the Crucial T500 boils down to performance needs and budget. Both drives present compelling features, but understanding their strengths will help you align your purchase with your specific requirements.
For further insights into these SSDs, you may find this review helpful:
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