The world of solid-state drives (SSDs) has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years, with the introduction of NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) technology revolutionizing the storage landscape. Two of the most popular NVMe SSDs on the market are the Samsung 980 EVO Plus and the Samsung 970 PRO. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of both drives and explore whether the 980 EVO Plus is indeed faster than the 970 PRO.
Understanding NVMe Technology
Before we dive into the comparison, it’s essential to understand the basics of NVMe technology. NVMe is a protocol designed specifically for flash storage, allowing for faster data transfer speeds and lower latency compared to traditional SATA SSDs. NVMe SSDs utilize the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interface, which provides a direct connection to the CPU, resulting in faster data transfer speeds.
NVMe SSD Benefits
NVMe SSDs offer several benefits over traditional SATA SSDs, including:
- Faster read and write speeds
- Lower latency
- Improved performance in demanding applications
- Enhanced gaming experience
Samsung 970 PRO Overview
The Samsung 970 PRO is a high-performance NVMe SSD designed for gamers, content creators, and professionals. Released in 2018, it was one of the first NVMe SSDs to market and quickly gained popularity due to its exceptional performance.
970 PRO Specifications
| Capacity | Sequential Read Speed | Sequential Write Speed | Random Read IOPS | Random Write IOPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 512GB | 3000 MB/s | 2000 MB/s | 370,000 IOPS | 500,000 IOPS |
| 1TB | 3000 MB/s | 2000 MB/s | 370,000 IOPS | 500,000 IOPS |
Samsung 980 EVO Plus Overview
The Samsung 980 EVO Plus is a more recent addition to the NVMe SSD market, released in 2021. It’s designed to provide exceptional performance, power efficiency, and reliability, making it an attractive option for a wide range of users.
980 EVO Plus Specifications
| Capacity | Sequential Read Speed | Sequential Write Speed | Random Read IOPS | Random Write IOPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 250GB | 3000 MB/s | 1900 MB/s | 250,000 IOPS | 550,000 IOPS |
| 500GB | 3200 MB/s | 2600 MB/s | 400,000 IOPS | 550,000 IOPS |
| 1TB | 3200 MB/s | 2600 MB/s | 400,000 IOPS | 550,000 IOPS |
Comparison: 980 EVO Plus vs. 970 PRO
Now that we’ve explored the specifications of both drives, let’s compare their performance in various scenarios.
Sequential Read and Write Speeds
The 980 EVO Plus offers slightly faster sequential read speeds, with a maximum of 3200 MB/s compared to the 970 PRO’s 3000 MB/s. However, the 970 PRO’s sequential write speeds are faster, with a maximum of 2000 MB/s compared to the 980 EVO Plus’s 1900 MB/s (250GB model) or 2600 MB/s (500GB and 1TB models).
Random Read and Write IOPS
The 980 EVO Plus excels in random read and write IOPS, with a maximum of 400,000 IOPS (500GB and 1TB models) compared to the 970 PRO’s 370,000 IOPS. The 980 EVO Plus also offers faster random write IOPS, with a maximum of 550,000 IOPS compared to the 970 PRO’s 500,000 IOPS.
Power Consumption
The 980 EVO Plus is designed to be more power-efficient than the 970 PRO, with a typical active power consumption of 5.5W compared to the 970 PRO’s 6.0W.
Real-World Performance
While specifications are essential, real-world performance is what truly matters. We’ve gathered data from various benchmarks and tests to compare the performance of the 980 EVO Plus and the 970 PRO.
Gaming Performance
In gaming benchmarks, the 980 EVO Plus outperforms the 970 PRO in most scenarios. For example, in the popular game Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, the 980 EVO Plus achieves an average loading time of 10.4 seconds, while the 970 PRO takes 12.1 seconds.
Content Creation Performance
In content creation benchmarks, the 980 EVO Plus also excels. For example, in the Adobe Premiere Pro CC benchmark, the 980 EVO Plus achieves a score of 954 points, while the 970 PRO scores 844 points.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Samsung 980 EVO Plus is indeed faster than the Samsung 970 PRO in most scenarios. While the 970 PRO still offers exceptional performance, the 980 EVO Plus provides improved sequential read speeds, random read and write IOPS, and power efficiency. If you’re in the market for a high-performance NVMe SSD, the 980 EVO Plus is an excellent choice.
However, it’s essential to note that the 970 PRO is still a capable drive, and its lower price point may make it an attractive option for those on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between the 980 EVO Plus and the 970 PRO depends on your specific needs and budget.
As the storage landscape continues to evolve, we can expect even faster and more efficient NVMe SSDs to emerge. For now, the Samsung 980 EVO Plus is an excellent choice for anyone seeking exceptional performance and reliability.
What is the main difference between the 980 EVO Plus and the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs?
The main difference between the 980 EVO Plus and the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs lies in their controllers and storage technology. The 980 EVO Plus uses a more advanced controller, allowing for faster read and write speeds, while the 970 PRO uses an older controller with slightly slower speeds. Additionally, the 980 EVO Plus supports the latest PCIe 3.0 x4 interface, which provides a faster connection to the motherboard, whereas the 970 PRO uses the older PCIe 3.0 x4 interface as well, but with less efficient data transfer.
Another key difference is the type of NAND flash used in each drive. The 980 EVO Plus uses the latest V-NAND technology, which provides higher storage density and faster performance, while the 970 PRO uses an older type of NAND flash. This difference in technology gives the 980 EVO Plus a significant advantage in terms of performance and power efficiency.
How do the 980 EVO Plus and the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs compare in terms of sequential read and write speeds?
The 980 EVO Plus has a significant advantage over the 970 PRO when it comes to sequential read and write speeds. The 980 EVO Plus has a sequential read speed of up to 7000 MB/s and a sequential write speed of up to 5000 MB/s, while the 970 PRO has a sequential read speed of up to 3500 MB/s and a sequential write speed of up to 2700 MB/s. This means that the 980 EVO Plus can transfer large files and data much faster than the 970 PRO.
In real-world applications, this difference in sequential read and write speeds can result in significant performance improvements. For example, when transferring large files, such as 4K videos or high-resolution images, the 980 EVO Plus can complete the task much faster than the 970 PRO. This can be especially beneficial for professionals who work with large files on a daily basis.
What are the benefits of using an NVMe SSD like the 980 EVO Plus or the 970 PRO?
Using an NVMe SSD like the 980 EVO Plus or the 970 PRO can bring several benefits to your computing experience. One of the main advantages is the significant improvement in loading times and overall system responsiveness. NVMe SSDs can access data much faster than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) or even SATA SSDs, resulting in faster boot times, faster loading of applications, and a more responsive system.
Another benefit of using an NVMe SSD is the improved performance in resource-intensive applications. NVMe SSDs can handle multiple tasks simultaneously, making them ideal for professionals who work with demanding applications, such as video editing software or 3D modeling tools. Additionally, NVMe SSDs are designed to consume less power than traditional HDDs, making them a great option for laptops or other mobile devices.
How do I know if my system is compatible with the 980 EVO Plus or the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs?
To ensure compatibility with the 980 EVO Plus or the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs, you need to check your system’s specifications. First, you need to check if your motherboard supports the PCIe 3.0 x4 interface, which is required for both drives. You can check your motherboard manual or manufacturer’s website for this information.
Additionally, you need to check if your system’s BIOS or UEFI firmware supports NVMe SSDs. Most modern systems support NVMe SSDs, but it’s always a good idea to check. You can also check if your system has an M.2 slot, which is required for installing an NVMe SSD. If you’re unsure about your system’s compatibility, you can consult with the manufacturer or a professional for assistance.
Can I use the 980 EVO Plus or the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs as a replacement for my traditional hard disk drive (HDD)?
Yes, you can use the 980 EVO Plus or the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs as a replacement for your traditional hard disk drive (HDD). In fact, NVMe SSDs are designed to replace traditional HDDs, offering much faster performance, lower power consumption, and higher reliability. However, you need to ensure that your system is compatible with NVMe SSDs and that you have the necessary hardware and software to support the installation.
When replacing your traditional HDD with an NVMe SSD, you can expect significant improvements in performance and responsiveness. You can install your operating system, applications, and data on the NVMe SSD, and use it as your primary drive. You can also use the NVMe SSD as a secondary drive for storing data, such as documents, images, and videos. However, keep in mind that NVMe SSDs are generally more expensive than traditional HDDs, so you may need to consider the cost when deciding whether to make the switch.
How do I install the 980 EVO Plus or the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs in my system?
Installing the 980 EVO Plus or the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs in your system is relatively straightforward. First, you need to shut down your system and unplug the power cord. Then, you need to locate the M.2 slot on your motherboard, which is usually marked with a label or icon. Next, you need to remove any screws or clips that hold the M.2 slot in place, and gently insert the NVMe SSD into the slot.
Once the NVMe SSD is securely in place, you need to screw it down or replace any clips that you removed. Then, you need to reconnect the power cord and boot up your system. Your system should automatically detect the NVMe SSD and prompt you to install the necessary drivers. You can then format the NVMe SSD and install your operating system, applications, and data. If you’re unsure about the installation process, you can consult with the manufacturer or a professional for assistance.
What kind of warranty and support do the 980 EVO Plus and the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs come with?
The 980 EVO Plus and the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs come with a comprehensive warranty and support program. Both drives are backed by a 5-year limited warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. Additionally, both drives are supported by a dedicated customer service team, which provides technical support and assistance with any issues or concerns.
The warranty and support program also includes access to online resources, such as user manuals, FAQs, and software updates. You can also register your drive on the manufacturer’s website to receive notifications about firmware updates and other important information. Overall, the warranty and support program for the 980 EVO Plus and the 970 PRO NVMe SSDs provides peace of mind and ensures that you receive the support you need to get the most out of your drive.