Is the Samsung 860 EVO a Good SSD?
When it comes to reliable and efficient storage options for small business PCs, the Samsung 860 EVO 500 GB SSD has proven to be a solid choice. As a long-time user of Samsung SSDs and USB flash drives, I have experienced firsthand the benefits of choosing a product with a 5-year warranty and a proven track record of performance.
My Experience with Samsung SSDs
I currently use Samsung SSDs and USB flash drives exclusively for my HP ProBook PCs running Windows 10 Pro. These devices not only offer the necessary performance but also come with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind for my small business needs. Over the years, I have not encountered any failures with Samsung products, including my old Samsung Galaxy S3 smartphone that continues to function.
Recently, I upgraded a system by adding a Samsung 860 EVO 500 GB SSD, a sale model that cost me just $60. This upgrade was aimed at increasing storage space and embracing newer flash technology. Additionally, the included software made the system migration process straightforward and seamless.
Comparison with Previous Models
Before settling on the 860 EVO, I had experience with older models such as the Samsung 840 Pro 128 GB SSD and the Samsung 850 Pro 256 GB SSD. Although these models were both high-performing and reliable, advancements in technology and my average usage pattern led me to opt for the EVO model over the pricier PRO line. Samsung also launched its QVO product line for high-capacity 1, 2, or 4 TB storage for those who require larger storage solutions at a competitive price point. Currently, I have no need for HDDs.
Performance and Durability
During my time with the Samsung 860 EVO, I have witnessed a noticeable performance improvement compared to other SSDs. However, the thing that truly impressed me is the unparalleled durability of the 860 EVO model. In an extreme example, I had a regular SATA hard drive and the Samsung 860 EVO side by side. The hard drive caught fire and the cables nearby were singed, yet the 860 EVO remained operational with no data loss, continuing to work perfectly for months.
2.5 Inch vs M.2 Version
The performance of the 2.5 inch Samsung 860 EVO is generally quite good, making it a top choice for most users. However, the M.2 version of the 860 EVO has been reported to have subpar performance, particularly on Linux. For instance, after four years of use, the M.2 version of my Samsung 850 EVO had issues, especially with 4GB files, exhibiting speeds as low as 100MB/s. These problems were resolved by formatting the drive with NTFS and splitting the partition, as firmware issues were identified as the root cause of the performance degradation.
For users looking for an alternative to the M.2 version, the Micron/Crucial Storage Admin utility can help manage SSDs on both Windows and Linux, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Conclusion
In summary, the Samsung 860 EVO is a reliable and performant SSD option, especially for desktop configurations. For those who prefer the 2.5 inch form factor, the Samsung 860 EVO and even the Crucial MX500 can be compelling alternatives. Whether you're looking for a high-quality SSD that won't let you down or a solution for your aging M.2 SSD, the Samsung 860 EVO and others in the series should be at the top of your list for future storage upgrades.