Samsung 980 Pro vs 970 Evo Plus: Which SSD Reigns?
Choosing the right SSD can feel like navigating a tech minefield, especially with so many options vying for your attention. Are you looking to upgrade your gaming rig or breathe new life into your aging laptop? Then you’ve likely encountered the titans of the SSD world: the Samsung 980 Pro and the 970 Evo Plus.
Both SSDs are from Samsung, a leader in storage technology, but they cater to different needs and budgets. The Samsung 980 Pro is a PCIe 4.0 powerhouse, promising blistering speeds. The 970 Evo Plus, a PCIe 3.0 drive, remains a strong contender with its excellent performance and value.
This comparison dives deep into the specifications, performance benchmarks, and real-world usage scenarios of the Samsung 980 Pro vs 970 Evo Plus. We’ll explore which drive is the superior choice for your specific needs, helping you make an informed decision for your next storage upgrade.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | 980 Pro | 970 Evo Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen 4.0 x4, NVMe 1.3c | PCIe Gen 3.0 x4, NVMe 1.3 |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 |
| Sequential Read (Max) | Up to 7,000 MB/s | Up to 3,500 MB/s |
| Sequential Write (Max) | Up to 5,000 MB/s | Up to 3,300 MB/s |
| Random Read (4KB, QD32) | Up to 1,000,000 IOPS | Up to 600,000 IOPS |
| Random Write (4KB, QD32) | Up to 1,000,000 IOPS | Up to 550,000 IOPS |
| Controller | Samsung Elpis | Samsung Phoenix |
| NAND Flash Memory | Samsung V-NAND 3-bit MLC | Samsung V-NAND 3-bit MLC |
| TBW (Terabytes Written) – 1TB model | 600 TBW | 600 TBW |
| Encryption | AES 256-bit Hardware Encryption | AES 256-bit Hardware Encryption |
| Operating Temperature | 0 – 70 °C | 0 – 70 °C |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Interface
- Samsung 980 Pro: PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe 1.3c. This newer interface offers significantly faster theoretical bandwidth compared to PCIe Gen3. However, it requires a motherboard that supports PCIe 4.0.
- 970 Evo Plus: PCIe Gen3 x4, NVMe 1.3. This is a still-capable interface that is compatible with a wider range of motherboards. It is generally sufficient for most users but slower than PCIe 4.0.
- Winner: 980 Pro
Sequential Read Speed
- Samsung 980 Pro: Up to 7,000 MB/s. The 980 Pro boasts exceptionally fast sequential read speeds, making it ideal for tasks like loading large files and games. This speed is dependent on the drive capacity and system configuration.
- 970 Evo Plus: Up to 3,500 MB/s. The 970 Evo Plus offers very respectable sequential read speeds. It is still plenty fast for most everyday computing tasks, including gaming.
- Winner: 980 Pro
Sequential Write Speed
- Samsung 980 Pro: Up to 5,000 MB/s. Excellent write speeds, allowing for quick transfer of large files. Performance can vary based on drive capacity and sustained write workloads.
- 970 Evo Plus: Up to 3,300 MB/s. Good write speeds, suitable for a variety of tasks. Offers a good balance of performance and value.
- Winner: 980 Pro
Random Read Speed (IOPS)
- Samsung 980 Pro: Up to 1,000,000 IOPS. High IOPS performance for fast responsiveness during multitasking and demanding workloads.
- 970 Evo Plus: Up to 600,000 IOPS. Still a respectable IOPS figure, suitable for most users.
- Winner: 980 Pro
Random Write Speed (IOPS)
- Samsung 980 Pro: Up to 1,000,000 IOPS. Exceptional random write performance, crucial for system responsiveness and handling numerous small file operations.
- 970 Evo Plus: Up to 550,000 IOPS. Good random write performance for an NVMe SSD.
- Winner: 980 Pro
Endurance (TBW)
- Samsung 980 Pro: Varies by capacity, but typically offers a higher TBW (Terabytes Written) rating, indicating greater longevity. It can handle more data written over its lifespan.
- 970 Evo Plus: Also varies by capacity, but usually has a lower TBW rating compared to the 980 Pro. It is still a durable drive, but potentially less so for heavy write workloads.
- Winner: 980 Pro
Price
- Samsung 980 Pro: Typically more expensive. The price reflects its newer technology, higher performance, and sometimes, larger storage capacities.
- 970 Evo Plus: Usually more affordable. It presents a more budget-friendly option, especially for users who do not need the fastest speeds.
- Winner: 970 Evo Plus
Heat Dissipation
- Samsung 980 Pro: Can generate more heat due to its higher performance. May benefit from a heatsink, especially during intensive workloads.
- 970 Evo Plus: Generally runs cooler, but can still benefit from a heatsink in some cases. It is less likely to thermal throttle under heavy loads compared to the 980 Pro.
- Winner: 970 Evo Plus
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | Samsung 980 Pro |
| Interface | Samsung 980 Pro |
| Sequential Read Speed | Samsung 980 Pro |
| Sequential Write Speed | Samsung 980 Pro |
| Random Read Speed | Samsung 980 Pro |
| Value | Samsung 970 Evo Plus |
What They Have in Common:
- Form Factor: Both the 980 Pro and 970 Evo Plus utilize the M.2 2280 form factor, making them compatible with a wide range of laptops and desktops. This ensures easy installation and compatibility.
- Nand Flash Type: Both SSDs use Samsung’s V-NAND 3-bit MLC (Multi-Level Cell) technology, providing a balance between performance and endurance. This contributes to their reliability.
- Hardware Encryption: Both drives support AES 256-bit hardware encryption, offering robust data security to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. This is essential for data privacy.
- Warranty: Both the 980 Pro and 970 Evo Plus come with a 5-year warranty, demonstrating Samsung’s confidence in the product’s quality and longevity. This offers peace of mind.
- Operating Temperature: Both drives share the same operating temperature range of 0 to 70 degrees Celsius, which allows them to operate in diverse environments. This ensures consistent performance.
Samsung 980 Pro Vs 970 Evo Plus Buying Guide
Performance: Raw Speed and Real-World Usage
The Samsung 980 Pro dominates in raw performance, leveraging PCIe 4.0 technology to achieve significantly higher sequential read/write speeds. This translates to faster game loading times, quicker file transfers, and a more responsive overall experience, especially for demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. The 970 Evo Plus, while still a strong performer, is limited by PCIe 3.0, resulting in slower speeds. However, for general tasks and everyday use, the difference might not be as noticeable.
Storage Capacity and Options
Both drives offer a range of storage capacities to suit various needs and budgets. You can find both the 980 Pro and the 970 Evo Plus in capacities ranging from 250GB or 500GB up to 2TB. The availability of higher capacity drives is crucial for storing large files, games, and applications. Consider your storage needs when choosing between these drives, and select the capacity that best fits your requirements.
Price and Value Proposition
The price of these SSDs fluctuates depending on the retailer, promotions, and storage capacity. Generally, the 980 Pro, being a newer and faster drive, tends to be more expensive than the 970 Evo Plus. However, the price difference might be worth it if you prioritize top-tier performance. The 970 Evo Plus offers excellent value for the performance it provides, making it a great option for budget-conscious users seeking a balance between speed and cost.
Compatibility: Motherboard and System Requirements
The 980 Pro requires a motherboard with a PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot to fully utilize its speed potential. While it is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0 slots, the performance will be limited. The 970 Evo Plus works perfectly fine with PCIe 3.0 slots. Ensure your motherboard supports the drive you choose. Check the motherboard specifications to confirm compatibility with the desired M.2 form factor and PCIe generation.
Durability and Endurance: TBW Rating
Both SSDs are built to last, but the 980 Pro and 970 Evo Plus have different endurance ratings, measured in Terabytes Written (TBW). The TBW rating indicates how much data can be written to the drive before its lifespan is considered over. Higher TBW ratings generally indicate a more durable drive. The 980 Pro often has a slightly higher TBW rating, especially at higher capacities, offering potentially greater longevity. However, for most users, both drives offer ample endurance.
Heat Management and Thermal Performance
SSDs generate heat during operation, and excessive heat can lead to performance throttling. The 980 Pro, being a faster drive, might generate more heat than the 970 Evo Plus. Both drives include features to manage heat, such as a nickel coating on the controller and dynamic thermal throttling. Some motherboards have integrated heatsinks for M.2 slots, which can further improve thermal performance. Consider the cooling solution when selecting a drive, especially if you plan to use it for demanding tasks.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 980 Pro If…
- You have a PCIe 4.0 compatible motherboard and want the absolute fastest storage performance available.
- You frequently work with large files, such as video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming.
- You prioritize the highest possible read and write speeds to minimize loading times and improve overall system responsiveness.
- You want the latest technology and are willing to pay a premium for top-tier performance.
Buy 970 Evo Plus If…
- You have a PCIe 3.0 compatible motherboard and want excellent performance at a more affordable price.
- You primarily use your computer for everyday tasks, gaming, or general content creation.
- You want a reliable and fast NVMe SSD without needing the absolute cutting-edge speeds.
- You are looking for a great value and a balance of performance and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Samsung 980 Pro and the 970 Evo Plus?
The primary difference lies in their PCIe interface. The 980 Pro utilizes PCIe 4.0, offering significantly faster speeds than the 970 Evo Plus, which uses PCIe 3.0. This means the 980 Pro offers improved performance for demanding tasks like video editing and gaming.
Which drive is better for gaming?
The 980 Pro is generally better for gaming due to its superior speed. It can potentially reduce game loading times and improve overall responsiveness. However, the real-world difference might not be hugely noticeable compared to the 970 Evo Plus, especially if your CPU or GPU is the bottleneck.
Does the 980 Pro require a specific motherboard?
Yes, the 980 Pro requires a motherboard with a PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot to achieve its maximum performance. While it is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0 slots, its speed will be limited to PCIe 3.0 speeds. Ensure your motherboard is compatible before purchasing.
What is the TBW rating, and why is it important?
TBW (Terabytes Written) indicates how much data can be written to the SSD before its lifespan is considered over. A higher TBW rating suggests greater durability. It’s important because it reflects the drive’s endurance and how long it’s expected to last before potential failure. Both drives have sufficient TBW for most users.
Which drive is more energy efficient?
Both drives are relatively energy efficient. The 970 Evo Plus might consume slightly less power under certain workloads. However, the difference in power consumption is typically small and is not a major factor in choosing between the two drives for most users.
How do the warranty periods compare?
Both the 980 Pro and 970 Evo Plus typically come with a 5-year limited warranty. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and failures within the specified time period. Make sure to check the warranty details with the retailer or manufacturer.
Is the 980 Pro worth the extra cost?
Whether the 980 Pro is worth the extra cost depends on your needs. If you require the absolute fastest performance for demanding tasks like video editing, or if you want to minimize game loading times, then yes. If you are on a budget or mostly use your computer for general tasks, the 970 Evo Plus offers great value.
Final Verdict
The Samsung 980 Pro emerges as the superior drive due to its cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 interface, delivering significantly faster speeds and a more responsive computing experience, especially for demanding workloads. While the 970 Evo Plus remains a capable and cost-effective option, the 980 Pro’s performance advantage makes it the preferred choice for those seeking the ultimate in speed and responsiveness. Although the cost is higher, the performance increase justifies the purchase for users who demand the best.
Winner: Samsung 980 Pro