Samsung SSD 860 vs 870: Which Solid State Drive Wins?
Upgrading your storage can breathe new life into your computer, making everything from booting up to loading applications feel lightning-fast. But with so many options, choosing the right solid-state drive (SSD) can be a challenge. Two popular choices often top the list: the Samsung 860 EVO and its successor, the 870 EVO.
Both SSDs promise significant performance boosts over traditional hard drives, but how do they stack up against each other? This comparison will delve into the key differences between the Samsung 860 EVO and the 870 EVO, helping you decide which drive is the perfect fit for your needs and budget. We’ll examine their specifications, performance, and overall value.
Whether you’re a gamer, a creative professional, or simply looking to speed up your everyday tasks, understanding the nuances of the Samsung 860 EVO vs 870 EVO is crucial. Let’s dive in and uncover which drive reigns supreme in this head-to-head battle for storage dominance, ensuring you make an informed decision for your next upgrade.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | 860 | 870 |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | SATA 6Gb/s | SATA 6Gb/s |
| Form Factor | 2.5-inch, mSATA, M.2 | 2.5-inch, M.2 |
| Controller | Samsung MJX | Samsung MKX |
| NAND Flash | Samsung V-NAND | Samsung V-NAND |
| Sequential Read (Max) | Up to 560 MB/s | Up to 560 MB/s |
| Sequential Write (Max) | Up to 520 MB/s | Up to 530 MB/s |
| Random Read (QD1) | Up to 10,000 IOPS | Up to 13,000 IOPS |
| Random Write (QD1) | Up to 40,000 IOPS | Up to 36,000 IOPS |
| TBW (Terabytes Written) | Up to 4800TBW (4TB Model) | Up to 2400TBW (4TB Model) |
| Encryption | AES 256-bit | AES 256-bit |
| Warranty | Up to 5 years | Up to 5 years |
| Software | Samsung Magician | Samsung Magician |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Performance
- Samsung SSD 860: Offers sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s and write speeds up to 520 MB/s. It provides solid performance for everyday tasks and gaming. However, it may feel slightly slower compared to newer SSDs.
- 870: Boasts sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s and write speeds up to 530 MB/s. It delivers a slight performance improvement in write speeds compared to the 860, making it marginally faster for certain tasks.
- Winner: 870
NAND Flash Type
- Samsung SSD 860: Uses Samsung’s 3D V-NAND technology, specifically the 64-layer V-NAND. Offers good endurance and reliability.
- 870: Employs Samsung’s latest 3D V-NAND technology, with the 128-layer V-NAND. This leads to improved density and potential for better performance and endurance.
- Winner: 870
Controller
- Samsung SSD 860: Features Samsung’s MJX controller, known for its reliability and efficiency. It handles data processing effectively.
- 870: Utilizes Samsung’s MKX controller, an updated version which is designed to improve overall drive performance and responsiveness.
- Winner: 870
Endurance (TBW)
- Samsung SSD 860: Offers a TBW (Terabytes Written) rating that varies depending on the capacity, typically ranging from 150 TBW to 480 TBW for the consumer models. Provides a good lifespan for typical usage.
- 870: Provides a TBW rating, which is generally improved over the 860. The TBW rating also varies by capacity, offering increased endurance and longevity compared to the 860.
- Winner: 870
Power Consumption
- Samsung SSD 860: Generally consumes a low amount of power, which contributes to energy efficiency, especially in laptops.
- 870: Offers similar power efficiency to the 860, making it a good choice for both desktop and laptop use.
- Winner: Tie
Warranty
- Samsung SSD 860: Typically comes with a 5-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind.
- 870: Also includes a 5-year limited warranty, matching the 860’s offering.
- Winner: Tie
Software and Features
- Samsung SSD 860: Supports Samsung Magician software for drive management, performance optimization, and data security.
- 870: Also supports Samsung Magician software, offering similar features and improvements.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Samsung SSD 860: Often available at a lower price point, making it a budget-friendly option.
- 870: Generally more expensive due to its newer technology and performance enhancements.
- Winner: 860
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | 870 |
| Value | 860 (Potentially) |
| Write Performance | 870 |
| Features | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Interface: Both the 860 and 870 use the SATA 6Gb/s interface, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of systems. This standard interface allows for easy upgrades in most desktop and laptop computers.
- Reliability: Both SSDs are built with Samsung’s V-NAND technology, offering high reliability and endurance. They are designed to withstand heavy workloads and provide consistent performance over time.
- Data Security: Both drives offer AES 256-bit hardware-based encryption, safeguarding your data from unauthorized access. This is a crucial feature for users concerned about data privacy.
- Samsung Magician Software: Both drives are compatible with Samsung Magician software, which allows users to monitor drive health, optimize performance, and securely erase data. This software enhances the user experience and provides valuable tools for managing the SSD.
- Warranty: Both SSDs come with a limited warranty, giving users peace of mind. This demonstrates Samsung’s confidence in the quality and durability of their products.
Samsung SSD 860 vs 870 Buying Guide
Performance for Everyday Tasks
Both the Samsung 860 and 870 SSDs offer excellent performance for everyday computing tasks. The 870, with its slightly updated controller and firmware, generally provides marginal improvements in real-world performance. You’ll likely notice faster application loading times and snappier system responsiveness with either drive compared to a traditional hard drive. The difference in performance between the two is subtle for typical use, like web browsing, document editing, and email.
Gaming Performance
For gaming, the differences between the 860 and 870 are minimal. Both SSDs will significantly reduce game loading times compared to a hard drive. While the 870 might offer slightly quicker level loading or asset streaming, the improvements are often imperceptible during gameplay. The primary benefit of both drives in gaming is the overall responsiveness of the system and the reduction in stuttering. The choice should be based on price and availability if gaming is the primary use.
Storage Capacity and Options
Both the 860 and 870 SSDs come in a variety of storage capacities, allowing you to choose the size that best suits your needs. They are available in capacities from 250GB to 4TB, providing ample space for operating systems, applications, and large files. Consider your current and future storage needs when selecting a capacity. If you plan to install numerous games or store large media files, opt for a larger capacity drive to avoid running out of space.
Price and Value
Price is a significant factor when choosing between the 860 and 870. The 870 is often priced slightly higher than the 860. Consider whether the marginal performance gains of the 870 justify the increased cost. The 860, being an older model, may offer better value if the price difference is substantial, and you are not sensitive to marginal performance differences. Always compare prices from different retailers before making a decision.
Reliability and Endurance
Samsung SSDs are known for their reliability and long lifespan. Both the 860 and 870 are built with high-quality components and offer excellent endurance ratings. Endurance is measured in Terabytes Written (TBW), which indicates the amount of data that can be written to the drive before its expected lifespan ends. Both drives offer a good TBW rating and a warranty period, ensuring peace of mind. Check the warranty and TBW specifications for each model you consider.
Installation and Compatibility
Installing both the 860 and 870 is straightforward. They use the standard 2.5-inch SATA interface, making them compatible with most desktops and laptops that support SATA SSDs. Ensure your computer has a SATA data cable and power connector available. Before installation, back up important data. The drives are generally plug-and-play, but you may need to initialize and format the drive within your operating system before use.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy samsung ssd 860 If…
- You find it at a significantly lower price than the 870.
- You already own an 860 and are looking for a straightforward upgrade.
- You primarily need an SSD for general computing tasks and don’t require the latest performance enhancements.
Buy 870 If…
- You want slightly improved write performance.
- You are looking for the latest generation of Samsung SATA SSD.
- You prioritize the newest technology and are willing to pay a premium for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Samsung 860 and 870 SSDs?
The primary differences lie in the controller and firmware. The 870 uses a newer controller and optimized firmware, resulting in slightly improved performance, especially in sequential read/write speeds, compared to the 860. The 870 offers a marginal advantage, but for everyday use, the difference is often unnoticeable. Both drives offer similar reliability and endurance.
Which SSD is better for gaming, the 860 or the 870?
Both SSDs are excellent for gaming, significantly reducing loading times. The 870 offers a minor edge, potentially leading to slightly faster level loading, but the difference is often subtle. The real benefit is the overall system responsiveness both drives provide. The price difference should be the deciding factor rather than the minute performance variations.
Are the Samsung 860 and 870 SSDs compatible with both laptops and desktops?
Yes, both drives are compatible with both laptops and desktops. They use the standard 2.5-inch SATA interface, which is the standard connection for most SSDs. Ensure your system has a SATA data cable and power connector. Before installation, back up your important data. The drives are generally plug-and-play, but you may need to initialize and format them within your operating system.
Does the Samsung 870 have a longer lifespan than the 860?
Both SSDs have excellent lifespans. The 870 might have a slightly improved TBW (Terabytes Written) rating due to its newer technology and improved controller and firmware. However, both drives are designed for long-term use, and the difference in lifespan is generally not a major concern for most users. The warranty period can be a good indicator of the expected lifespan.
What is the warranty period for the Samsung 860 and 870 SSDs?
Both the 860 and 870 SSDs typically come with a limited warranty period of up to five years, though this can vary depending on the region and the specific reseller. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Always check the warranty details provided by the manufacturer or the retailer before making a purchase to understand the coverage terms.
How much storage capacity is available for both SSDs?
Both the Samsung 860 and 870 SSDs are available in a range of storage capacities. These generally span from 250GB to 4TB. This gives consumers a wide variety of storage options to suit their specific storage needs. The ideal capacity depends on how much data you intend to store. Consider the OS, games and media files.
Is the Samsung 870 worth the extra cost compared to the 860?
The value of the 870 depends on your budget and usage. The 870 provides a slight performance increase, but the difference might not be noticeable for everyday tasks. If the price difference is small, the 870 may be worth it. If the 860 is significantly cheaper, it offers excellent value. Consider your needs and prioritize cost based on your requirements.
Final Verdict
The Samsung 870 offers minor performance improvements over the 860 due to its updated controller and firmware. Both drives deliver excellent performance for everyday tasks and gaming. While the 870 might be marginally faster, the difference is often negligible for most users. When making your choice, consider the price difference and the specific use case. If budget is a concern, the 860 remains a great value.
Winner: [Samsung SSD 870]