WD Black SN770 vs SN850X Comparison: Which to Choose?
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When it comes to high-performance storage solutions, two names frequently arise: the WD Black SN770 and the SN850X. These NVMe SSDs cater to different market segments within the Gen 4.0 category, appealing to a variety of users, from casual gamers to professional content creators. Understanding the nuances between both can help you make an informed decision about which one fits your needs best.
The WD Black SN770 is a mid-range option, designed for those who need solid performance without breaking the bank. In contrast, the WD Black SN850X is aimed at enthusiasts who demand cutting-edge speed and additional features. Below, we delve deeper into their specifications, performance benchmarks, and other critical factors to consider before making a choice.
Understanding theoretical specifications
The WD Black SN850X is designed for users who demand top-tier performance. It features an 8-channel controller along with onboard DDR4 DRAM, which enhances its ability to handle intensive workloads. This drive achieves impressive sequential read speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s and write speeds of 6,600 MB/s. In comparison, the SN770, which employs a more cost-effective 4-channel controller and lacks onboard DRAM, only reaches peak sequential read speeds of approximately 5,300 MB/s and write speeds of 4,500 MB/s.
Here’s a brief overview of their theoretical specifications:
- SN850X: 8-channel controller, DRAM cache, up to 7,300 MB/s read, 6,600 MB/s write.
- SN770: 4-channel controller, DRAM-less, up to 5,300 MB/s read, 4,500 MB/s write.
The SN850X's advanced architecture allows it to approach the theoretical limits of PCIe 4.0 bandwidth, making it suitable for data-intensive applications such as 4K video editing and high-resolution gaming.
Performance benchmarks comparison
To better understand how these drives perform in real-world scenarios, we need to examine various benchmark tests. Below, we provide insights into how both drives stack up against each other across different performance metrics. All scores are based on the 2TB variants of each drive.
PCMark 10 Full System Drive Benchmark
This benchmark simulates daily computing tasks, such as booting the OS and launching applications. The SN850X outperforms the SN770 with an overall score of 4063 compared to 3962. This indicates a ~2.5% performance improvement.
3DMark Storage Test for Gamers
When it comes to gaming, the SN850X scores an impressive 4572, significantly outperforming the SN770, which scores 3516. This difference underscores the superior gaming performance offered by the SN850X, making it ideal for gamers who demand quick load times and seamless gameplay.
CrystalDiskMark Peak Sequential Performance
In peak sequential performance tests, the SN850X once again takes the lead. It achieves a read speed of 6,982 MB/s versus the SN770's 4,874 MB/s. The SN850X's superior performance shines through in scenarios involving large file transfers and content creation.
CrystalDiskMark Random Read/Write Performance
For random read/write operations, the SN850X demonstrates its prowess, especially under high workloads. The SN850X achieves about 22,853 IOPS in 4KB random reads, almost doubling the SN770's performance. This makes it a better choice for multitasking and database workloads.
File Transfer Rate
In terms of file transfer rates, the SN850X maintains its edge, with a copy speed around 23% faster than the SN770. This difference may seem minor, but it can significantly impact your productivity when moving large files or working with compressed archives.
Power consumption and efficiency
While performance is crucial, power consumption is also a consideration, especially for laptop users. The SN850X has a peak power draw of 7W, compared to the SN770's 5W. However, the SN850X offers slightly better efficiency at 449 MB/s per watt. It’s essential to weigh your performance needs against potential energy costs.
TBW, DWPD, MTBF, and warranty
Both SSDs offer commendable durability, with similar TBW (Terabytes Written) ratings for their 1TB and 2TB variants. Here’s a snapshot of their reliability attributes:
- TBW: Similar ratings across the board.
- DWPD: Comparable drive writes per day.
- MTBF: Both boast decent Mean Time Between Failures.
- Warranty: Standard 5-year warranty for both models.
This parity in reliability means both drives are robust options, but users should consider their specific usage scenarios when choosing between them.
Detailed technical specifications
The technological differences between the SN770 and SN850X are significant. While both drives share a 16 nm process and controller class, their architectures diverge sharply. The SN770 is a budget-friendly, DRAM-less option that utilizes Host Memory Buffer technology, making it suitable for everyday tasks and casual gaming. However, it may struggle under heavier loads or professional workloads.
On the other hand, the SN850X is a high-end solution designed for users who push their storage devices to the limit. With full DRAM cache, enhanced firmware, and optional TCG Opal encryption, it stands out as a premium choice for content creators, gamers, and professionals.
Comparative pricing analysis
As of the time of writing, the pricing for both models is as follows:
| Model | Storage Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| SN770 | 1TB | $85.99 |
| SN850X | 1TB | $109.99 |
| SN770 | 2TB | $129.99 |
| SN850X | 2TB | $169.99 |
Choosing the SN770 can save you a substantial amount of money while still delivering good performance, especially for regular users or budget-conscious gamers.
Gaming performance comparisons
For gamers, the decision often hinges on performance metrics specific to gaming scenarios. The SN850X excels in benchmarks that mimic real-world gaming environments, providing faster load times and smoother gameplay. The dedicated Game Mode feature also optimizes performance during gaming sessions, making it a more appealing choice for serious players.
Temperature and thermal management
Another critical aspect to consider is the thermal performance of these drives. The SN850X tends to run hotter under load due to its higher performance capabilities. Efficient thermal management is essential to maintain performance and longevity, especially for users in high-performance environments.
For more insights into the comparative performance between these SSDs, you may find this video beneficial:
In summary, both the WD Black SN770 and SN850X cater to different user needs, balancing performance, cost, and features. The SN850X shines for high-performance tasks and gaming, while the SN770 offers excellent value for everyday usage. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right SSD to enhance your computing experience.
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