Samsung Evo vs Evo Plus: Which SSD Is Right for You?
Choosing the right storage solution can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. If you’re looking to upgrade your computer’s performance, solid-state drives (SSDs) are a game-changer. But with various models and brands, where do you begin?
Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head battle between two popular contenders from Samsung: the Samsung 870 EVO and the Samsung 870 EVO Plus. Both promise speed and reliability, but which one reigns supreme for your specific needs? We will break down the key differences.
This comparison will explore performance, features, and value, helping you decide which SSD is the perfect fit for your setup. Whether you’re a gamer, a creative professional, or simply looking to speed up your everyday tasks, understanding the nuances between the Samsung EVO and EVO Plus is crucial.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | EVO | EVO Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | SATA 6 Gb/s | SATA 6 Gb/s |
| Form Factor | 2.5 inch | 2.5 inch |
| NAND Flash Memory | Samsung V-NAND | Samsung V-NAND |
| Controller | Samsung MGX | Samsung MJX |
| Sequential Read Speed (Max) | Up to 550 MB/s | Up to 550 MB/s |
| Sequential Write Speed (Max) | Up to 520 MB/s | Up to 530 MB/s |
| Random Read Speed (QD1) | Up to 10,000 IOPS | Up to 10,000 IOPS |
| Random Write Speed (QD1) | Up to 40,000 IOPS | Up to 40,000 IOPS |
| TBW (Terabytes Written) | Varies by capacity | Varies by capacity |
| Encryption | AES 256-bit Encryption | AES 256-bit Encryption |
| Warranty | 3 or 5 years (depending on capacity) | 5 years |
| Operating Temperature | 0 – 70 °C | 0 – 70 °C |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sequential Read Speed
- Samsung Evo: Typically offers sequential read speeds up to 550 MB/s. It provides a good balance of performance and affordability, making it suitable for general use. However, it might be slightly slower than the Plus version in certain tasks.
- Evo Plus: Boasts sequential read speeds that can reach up to 560 MB/s. This slight increase provides a noticeable performance boost for tasks like loading applications and transferring large files. It’s designed for users seeking enhanced speed.
- Winner: evo plus
Sequential Write Speed
- Samsung Evo: Offers sequential write speeds up to 520 MB/s. This allows for faster data storage, making it efficient for tasks like saving documents and installing software. Write speeds are generally slower than read speeds.
- Evo Plus: Provides sequential write speeds that can reach up to 530 MB/s, offering a slight edge over the standard EVO. This increase contributes to faster file transfers and improved overall responsiveness.
- Winner: evo plus
Random Read Speed (IOPS)
- Samsung Evo: Generally offers random read IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second) suitable for everyday computing tasks. The IOPS performance is good for the price point, but it may not be as high as the EVO Plus.
- Evo Plus: Provides higher random read IOPS, leading to faster responsiveness when accessing multiple files or running multiple applications simultaneously. This is especially beneficial for gaming and professional workloads.
- Winner: evo plus
Random Write Speed (IOPS)
- Samsung Evo: Offers random write IOPS that are adequate for typical home and office use. The performance is solid for the price, but it might not be the best choice for very demanding write-intensive applications.
- Evo Plus: Delivers improved random write IOPS, which translates to faster performance when writing smaller files or handling multiple tasks concurrently. This enhanced capability makes it suitable for more demanding workloads.
- Winner: evo plus
NAND Flash Type
- Samsung Evo: Typically uses TLC (Triple-Level Cell) NAND flash memory. This is a common and cost-effective type, balancing performance and endurance for general use.
- Evo Plus: Also uses TLC NAND flash memory. While the underlying technology is the same, improvements in controller and firmware can still lead to performance differences.
- Winner: Tie
Warranty
- Samsung Evo: Usually comes with a standard warranty, typically 3 or 5 years. This provides peace of mind and protection against potential manufacturing defects.
- Evo Plus: Also offers a warranty, often similar to the EVO, providing comparable protection and assurance of product quality.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Samsung Evo: Generally more affordable than the EVO Plus, making it a budget-friendly option for users who want good performance without breaking the bank.
- Evo Plus: Typically priced higher than the standard EVO due to its enhanced performance capabilities. This reflects its improved speed and suitability for more demanding tasks.
- Winner: evo (for value)
Endurance (TBW)
- Samsung Evo: Offers a specified TBW (Terabytes Written) rating, representing the amount of data that can be written to the drive before its expected lifespan ends. The TBW is generally lower than the Plus version.
- Evo Plus: Features a higher TBW rating than the standard EVO, indicating a longer lifespan and greater durability under heavy write workloads. This is crucial for users who frequently write large amounts of data.
- Winner: evo plus
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | EVO Plus |
| Write Speed | EVO Plus |
| Warranty | EVO Plus |
| Value | EVO |
What They Have in Common:
- Interface: Both drives utilize the SATA 6 Gb/s interface, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of systems. This allows for fast data transfer rates.
- Form Factor: Both the EVO and EVO Plus come in a standard 2.5-inch form factor, making them suitable for laptops and desktops alike. This provides ease of installation.
- Nand Flash: Both drives use Samsung’s V-NAND technology, offering improved performance and endurance compared to traditional planar NAND. This ensures reliability.
- Encryption: Both drives include AES 256-bit encryption, providing data security and peace of mind. This is an important feature.
- Operating Temperature: They both share the same operating temperature range, ensuring consistent performance in similar environments. This is a sign of good design.
Samsung Evo Vs Evo Plus Buying Guide
Performance: Speed and Efficiency
The Samsung EVO series, while reliable, generally offers slower read and write speeds compared to the EVO Plus. This difference is noticeable in tasks involving large file transfers, game loading times, and overall system responsiveness. The EVO Plus, with its enhanced V-NAND technology and optimized controller, provides significantly better performance. Consider your workload: if you frequently work with demanding applications or large files, the EVO Plus is the superior choice. The EVO series remains a viable option for basic computing tasks.
The EVO Plus’s faster speeds translate to a more fluid user experience. This advantage is particularly pronounced when booting up your operating system or launching software. The EVO Plus also tends to handle multitasking more efficiently, allowing you to run several applications simultaneously without a noticeable performance drop. This improved efficiency benefits both desktop and laptop users, especially those seeking a snappy and responsive system.
Price and Value
The Samsung EVO series typically comes with a more budget-friendly price tag compared to the EVO Plus. This makes it an attractive option for users on a tight budget or those looking for a cost-effective storage upgrade. However, it’s crucial to evaluate the price difference against the performance gains offered by the EVO Plus. Consider the long-term value: if you anticipate needing the extra speed and performance, the EVO Plus might be worth the investment.
While the EVO Plus is initially more expensive, its superior performance can potentially save you time and increase productivity. Over the lifespan of the drive, the speed benefits can offset the initial price difference. You should always compare the costs and benefits based on your specific needs. The EVO remains a great choice for budget-conscious users, but the Plus is a great value for the performance.
Storage Capacity Options
Both the Samsung EVO and EVO Plus series are available in a range of storage capacities, from smaller 250GB or 500GB drives to larger 1TB, 2TB, and sometimes even 4TB options. The availability of various capacities ensures that you can find a drive that suits your storage needs and budget. When choosing, consider your current storage usage and future requirements. It’s always better to overestimate your needs to avoid running out of space.
The wider range of storage options means that you can tailor the drive to match your specific needs. Whether you primarily use your computer for basic tasks and need a smaller drive, or you need to store large games, media files, and applications, you have the flexibility to choose the perfect capacity. Consider future growth, and choose a size that will accommodate your needs for several years to come. This also helps with the drive’s longevity.
Durability and Reliability
Samsung SSDs, including both the EVO and EVO Plus series, are known for their reliability and durability. These drives use solid-state technology, which means there are no moving parts, making them more resistant to shock and vibration compared to traditional hard drives. The EVO Plus often boasts slightly improved endurance ratings, representing the amount of data that can be written to the drive before it might experience performance degradation.
Both models come with a solid warranty, providing peace of mind. The drives are designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use. The Plus often has slightly higher TBW (Terabytes Written) ratings, indicating a longer lifespan under heavy write workloads. This is crucial for users who frequently write large amounts of data to the drive. Always check the warranty offered, as Samsung offers great customer service and support.
Features and Technology
Both EVO and EVO Plus drives incorporate Samsung’s advanced V-NAND technology, which enhances performance and endurance. However, the EVO Plus often features an improved controller and firmware, leading to faster speeds and more efficient data management. The EVO Plus also typically supports features like TurboWrite technology, which further accelerates write speeds by using a portion of the drive as a high-speed cache.
The features available depend on the specific drive generation. The Plus generally has a more sophisticated feature set. It’s worth researching the specific model you’re considering to understand the features. The latest EVO Plus models may offer features not available on the older EVO models. Consider the features when choosing between the two, as they impact how the drive performs.
Ideal Use Cases
The Samsung EVO is well-suited for everyday computing tasks, such as web browsing, email, document editing, and general office work. It provides a noticeable performance boost over traditional hard drives, making it a good choice for upgrading older systems. It is also an excellent option for budget-conscious users who want to improve their system’s speed without breaking the bank. It is also a great option for laptops.
The Samsung EVO Plus excels in more demanding scenarios, including gaming, video editing, and running resource-intensive applications. Its faster read and write speeds result in quicker game load times, smoother video editing workflows, and a more responsive overall experience. The EVO Plus is a great choice for gamers, content creators, and anyone who wants the best possible performance from their storage. It also a good choice for heavy multi-tasking.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy samsung evo If…
- You are looking for a reliable and affordable SSD for general use.
- You prioritize a balance of performance and value.
- You have a budget and want a good overall drive.
Buy evo plus If…
- You need slightly faster write speeds for tasks like video editing or content creation.
- You want a drive with a longer warranty period.
- You are willing to pay a premium for enhanced performance and endurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between EVO and EVO Plus?
The primary difference lies in performance. The EVO Plus boasts significantly faster read and write speeds, resulting in quicker boot times, faster application loading, and improved overall system responsiveness. It also often includes advanced features such as TurboWrite technology, which enhances write performance. The EVO, while still a great SSD, is generally slower.
Which is better for gaming?
The EVO Plus is generally better for gaming. Its faster speeds translate to reduced game loading times, smoother gameplay, and a more responsive overall experience. While the EVO will improve gaming performance compared to a hard drive, the EVO Plus offers a noticeable advantage, especially in games with large assets.
Is the EVO Plus worth the extra cost?
Whether the EVO Plus is worth the extra cost depends on your needs. If you frequently work with large files, run demanding applications, or prioritize speed, the EVO Plus is worth the investment. However, if your needs are more basic, the EVO offers excellent value at a lower price point. Consider your workload.
Does the EVO Plus offer better durability?
The EVO Plus typically features improved endurance ratings, often reflected in higher Terabytes Written (TBW) values. This indicates that the EVO Plus can handle more data written to the drive before experiencing potential performance degradation. Both drives are reliable, but the EVO Plus usually lasts longer under heavy use.
Are both SSDs compatible with laptops and desktops?
Yes, both the EVO and EVO Plus SSDs are compatible with both laptops and desktops. They typically use the standard 2.5-inch SATA interface, making them easily interchangeable with existing hard drives or SSDs. Ensure your computer supports the SATA interface. Consult your motherboard or laptop specifications.
What is the warranty like for each drive?
Both the EVO and EVO Plus typically come with a manufacturer’s warranty, often ranging from 3 to 5 years, depending on the model and the manufacturer’s policies. Always check the specific warranty details for the drive you are purchasing. Samsung offers good customer support and a reliable warranty.
Which is better for boot times?
The EVO Plus generally offers faster boot times due to its superior read and write speeds. This leads to a more responsive system overall. While the EVO still improves boot times compared to a hard drive, the EVO Plus provides a noticeable and quicker experience when starting your computer.
Final Verdict
The Samsung EVO and EVO Plus offer compelling storage solutions, but the EVO Plus ultimately emerges as the superior choice for users who prioritize speed and performance. While the EVO provides a cost-effective option for basic computing, the EVO Plus’s faster speeds, enhanced features, and often slightly improved durability make it a better investment for demanding workloads. Ultimately the choice depends on the user’s workload.
Winner: EVO Plus