Samsung 860 Pro vs 870 Evo: SSD Showdown!
Choosing the right SSD can be a game-changer for your computer’s performance. Are you looking to upgrade your storage and deciding between two popular Samsung models? This comparison will help you navigate the features and benefits of each drive.
We’re diving deep into the Samsung 860 Pro vs 870 Evo, two SSDs that have earned their place in the market. Both offer compelling performance, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets. Understanding the key differences is crucial for making the best choice.
Get ready to explore the specifications, performance benchmarks, and overall value of each drive. Whether you’re a gamer, a creative professional, or a general user, this comparison will provide the insights you need to make an informed decision and optimize your system.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 860 Pro | 870 Evo |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | SATA 6 Gb/s | SATA 6 Gb/s |
| Form Factor | 2.5-inch | 2.5-inch |
| Controller | Samsung MJX | Samsung MKX |
| NAND Flash Memory | Samsung 2-bit MLC V-NAND | Samsung 3-bit MLC V-NAND |
| Sequential Read Speed (Max) | 560 MB/s | 560 MB/s |
| Sequential Write Speed (Max) | 530 MB/s | 530 MB/s |
| Random Read Speed (QD1) | Up to 10,000 IOPS | Up to 13,000 IOPS |
| Random Write Speed (QD1) | Up to 36,000 IOPS | Up to 39,000 IOPS |
| TBW (Terabytes Written) | Up to 4800 TBW (4TB model) | Up to 2400 TBW (4TB model) |
| Encryption | AES 256-bit Hardware Encryption | AES 256-bit Hardware Encryption |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Power Consumption (Active) | Max. 3.0W | Max. 3.0W |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Storage Technology
- Samsung 860 Pro: Uses Samsung’s MLC (Multi-Level Cell) V-NAND technology, offering higher endurance and performance. It’s designed for professional use and heavy workloads. However, it’s generally more expensive.
- 870 Evo: Employs Samsung’s TLC (Triple-Level Cell) V-NAND technology. It provides a good balance of performance, capacity, and cost, making it suitable for general use and gaming. It has a lower endurance rating compared to the 860 Pro.
- Winner: 860 Pro
Interface
- Samsung 860 Pro: Uses the SATA III (6 Gb/s) interface, which is a standard interface for SSDs. It’s a widely compatible interface. However, it is limited by the SATA III bandwidth.
- 870 Evo: Also uses the SATA III (6 Gb/s) interface. Offers the same compatibility as the 860 Pro. It has the same bandwidth limitation.
- Winner: Tie
Performance (Sequential Read/Write)
- Samsung 860 Pro: Offers up to 560 MB/s read and 530 MB/s write speeds, typical for SATA III SSDs. It excels in sustained workloads.
- 870 Evo: Provides up to 560 MB/s read and 530 MB/s write speeds. It offers similar performance to the 860 Pro in sequential tasks.
- Winner: Tie
Performance (Random Read/Write)
- Samsung 860 Pro: Generally offers slightly higher random read/write IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second) compared to the 870 EVO, making it better for tasks with many small files.
- 870 Evo: Provides good random read/write IOPS, adequate for most general computing tasks, gaming and everyday use.
- Winner: 860 Pro
Endurance (TBW – Terabytes Written)
- Samsung 860 Pro: Boasts a higher TBW rating, signifying a longer lifespan and better suitability for heavy write workloads. It is designed to last longer.
- 870 Evo: Has a lower TBW rating than the 860 Pro, making it less ideal for extremely demanding write-intensive tasks. Suitable for most users.
- Winner: 860 Pro
Warranty
- Samsung 860 Pro: Typically comes with a longer warranty period (e.g., 5 years) due to its higher endurance.
- 870 Evo: Usually includes a shorter warranty period (e.g., 3-5 years), depending on the specific model.
- Winner: 860 Pro
Price
- Samsung 860 Pro: Generally more expensive than the 870 EVO, reflecting its higher-end components and features.
- 870 Evo: More affordable, making it a better value option for users on a budget.
- Winner: 870 evo
Target Audience
- Samsung 860 Pro: Designed for professionals, content creators, and users with demanding workloads who prioritize performance and endurance.
- 870 Evo: Targeted at mainstream users, gamers, and anyone looking for a balance of performance, capacity, and value.
- Winner: 860 Pro
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Endurance | 860 Pro |
| Value | 870 Evo |
| Overall Performance (for most users) | 870 Evo |
| Price | 870 Evo |
What They Have in Common
- Interface: Both the 860 Pro and 870 Evo utilize the SATA 6 Gb/s interface, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of systems. This standard allows for straightforward integration into most desktops and laptops that support 2.5-inch SSDs.
- Form Factor: Both drives share the 2.5-inch form factor, making them ideal for laptops and desktops alike, providing a standardized physical design for easy installation and compatibility.
- Warranty: Both SSDs come with a 5-year warranty, offering users peace of mind and assurance of product reliability and durability over a substantial period.
- Encryption: Both drives offer AES 256-bit hardware encryption, providing a robust level of data security to protect sensitive information stored on the SSD.
- Power Consumption: Both SSDs have a similar power consumption, meaning that they will not significantly affect the battery life of laptops.
Samsung 860 Pro Vs 870 Evo Buying Guide
Performance for Professionals vs. Everyday Use
The Samsung 860 Pro, with its focus on sustained performance, is ideal for professionals who frequently work with large files, such as video editors, graphic designers, and software developers. It excels in tasks requiring consistent read and write speeds, offering minimal performance degradation over time. The 870 Evo, on the other hand, targets a broader audience, including gamers and general PC users. While still offering excellent performance, it prioritizes cost-effectiveness and efficiency for everyday computing tasks, such as booting the OS, loading applications, and browsing the web. Ultimately, the choice depends on your workload’s demands.
Durability and Endurance
Durability is a key differentiator between the 860 Pro and the 870 Evo. The 860 Pro is designed for high-write workloads, using a more robust controller and higher-quality NAND flash memory. This translates to a significantly higher Terabytes Written (TBW) rating, indicating its ability to endure extensive data writes over its lifespan. The 870 Evo, while still durable, has a lower TBW rating, making it more suitable for users with less demanding write cycles. Consider your write needs before making the decision.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
The 870 Evo generally offers a better price-to-performance ratio than the 860 Pro. The 860 Pro, with its premium components and superior performance, commands a higher price. The 870 Evo, however, provides a compelling blend of speed and affordability, making it an excellent value for most users. If budget is a primary concern, the 870 Evo is the clear winner. However, if performance is the ultimate goal and budget is less of a constraint, the 860 Pro is worth the investment.
Storage Capacity Options
Both the 860 Pro and the 870 Evo are available in a range of storage capacities. The 860 Pro typically offers a smaller range of capacities, often focusing on larger sizes suitable for professional workflows. The 870 Evo often provides a wider selection, catering to various user needs and budgets. Consider the amount of storage you require for your operating system, applications, and data. Evaluate the available capacity options for each drive to ensure they align with your storage requirements, and make sure that you are not buying more storage than you need.
Technology and Features
Both SSDs incorporate advanced features to enhance performance and data integrity. The 860 Pro often features a more advanced controller and firmware optimization for professional workloads. The 870 Evo, while also utilizing Samsung’s proprietary technologies, may emphasize features that optimize performance for general use. Both drives support features such as TRIM, S.M.A.R.T. monitoring, and Samsung’s Magician software for drive management, performance optimization, and data security. Examine specifications to understand the technology and features.
Warranty and Support
Samsung generally provides a strong warranty and support for both the 860 Pro and the 870 Evo. The 860 Pro, due to its premium nature, might have a longer warranty period or more comprehensive support. However, both drives are backed by Samsung’s reputation for quality and customer service. Check the specific warranty terms and conditions for each drive. Evaluate the warranty period, coverage, and available support options. This will help you to assess the level of protection and assistance that is offered.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 860 Pro If…
- You prioritize the highest possible endurance and are willing to pay a premium.
- You need an SSD for heavy write workloads, such as video editing or other professional applications.
- You want the best possible performance for sustained workloads.
Buy 870 Evo If…
- You want a balance of performance, capacity, and value for everyday use.
- You’re looking for a reliable SSD for general computing tasks, gaming, or content creation.
- You want a more cost-effective option without sacrificing too much performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the 860 Pro and the 870 Evo?
The primary difference lies in their target audience and intended use. The 860 Pro is designed for professionals requiring consistent high performance and durability, while the 870 Evo caters to a broader audience seeking a balance of performance and value. The 860 Pro uses higher-grade components and focuses on sustained write performance, while the 870 Evo optimizes for everyday computing tasks.
Which SSD is better for gaming?
Both SSDs will significantly improve gaming performance compared to a traditional hard drive. However, the 870 Evo offers a better price-to-performance ratio for gaming, providing fast loading times and smooth gameplay at a more affordable cost. The 860 Pro’s performance is not a game changer, but it is a good choice if you are willing to pay for the slightly improved performance.
Is the 860 Pro worth the extra cost?
The 860 Pro’s value depends on your usage. If you are a professional working with large files and require consistent high write speeds, the 860 Pro is a worthwhile investment. For general users and gamers, the 870 Evo offers a better value proposition with excellent performance at a lower price point. Consider your workload and budget when making the decision.
What is the lifespan of these SSDs?
Both SSDs are designed for a long lifespan. The 860 Pro, with its higher TBW rating, is built for more demanding workloads and will generally last longer under heavy write conditions. The 870 Evo is also durable, but its lifespan is slightly lower due to its lower TBW rating. Both drives should last many years of normal use.
What is the warranty period for these SSDs?
Samsung typically offers a warranty of up to 5 years for both SSDs, though the exact terms may vary depending on the region and retailer. It’s always a good idea to check the specific warranty details before purchasing. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and failures under normal use, providing peace of mind to users.
Which SSD is easier to install?
Both SSDs are very easy to install. They use the standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor, making them compatible with most desktops and laptops. The installation process involves simply connecting the SATA data and power cables. Samsung also provides its Magician software, which can assist with cloning your existing drive and optimizing the SSD for performance.
Can I use these SSDs with a SATA II interface?
Yes, both the 860 Pro and the 870 Evo are backward compatible with SATA II (3 Gbps) interfaces. However, you will not achieve the maximum performance potential of the SSDs, as SATA II is slower than SATA III. The SSDs will still be faster than a hard drive, but the transfer speeds will be limited by the SATA II interface.
Final Verdict
The Samsung 860 Pro excels in sustained performance and is targeted to professionals. The 870 Evo offers a more balanced approach, making it an excellent choice for a wider range of users, including gamers and general PC users, due to its better price-to-performance ratio. While the 860 Pro is a great SSD, the 870 Evo offers a compelling blend of speed and value.
Winner: Samsung 870 Evo