INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD

INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD — image 1
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INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD — image 5
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85%
92%
Performance
91%
Speed
80%
Compatibility
88%
Build Quality
85%
Ease of Installation
89%
Durability
84%
Heat Management
90%
Shock Resistance
78%
Software/Firmware Updates
87%
Price to Value Ratio
75%
Customer Support
85%
Reliability
More

Overview

The INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD is a compact and high-performance storage solution designed for modern devices. This 1TB M.2 drive leverages the PCIe Gen 4.0x4 interface to deliver fast data transfer speeds, reaching up to 3,400MB/s read and 2,400MB/s write. Its small form factor makes it an excellent choice for ultrabooks, mini PCs, and gaming handhelds, such as the Steam Deck and ROG Ally. With its solid-state design, it offers enhanced durability and energy efficiency, making it a reliable option for users seeking both speed and stability in their storage needs.

Features & Benefits

The INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD stands out with its remarkable speed and efficiency. It offers a read speed of up to 3,400MB/s and a write speed of 2,400MB/s, ensuring fast boot times and quick file transfers. Powered by advanced 3D TLC NAND technology, this drive is designed for reliability and endurance, supporting up to 600TBW and a high MTBF of 1.5 million hours. It also supports TRIM, Wear Leveling, and Bad Block Management, which helps maintain optimal performance over time. With backward compatibility for PCIe 3.0, it can be easily used in a wide range of systems.

Best For

This SSD is ideal for gamers looking to expand storage on handheld devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, as well as for ultrabook users seeking a fast, reliable upgrade. It is also an excellent choice for those building compact gaming PCs or mini desktops, where space is at a premium. Its shock resistance and low heat output make it well-suited for environments where durability is crucial. Whether you're upgrading your gaming setup or enhancing the speed of your work machine, this drive provides the performance needed to keep up with demanding tasks.

User Feedback

Users have generally praised this SSD for its fast performance, particularly its read/write speeds in gaming setups, which significantly improve load times. Many have highlighted the easy installation process, with no issues related to setup. However, some have noted that a BIOS update may be required for certain systems to recognize the drive. The drive's low heat output has been a positive for users with compact PC builds, helping maintain system stability. On the downside, a few users have reported issues with compatibility in older systems, though this is largely remedied with firmware updates.

#Internal Solid State Drives
#Data Storage
#Computers & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • This SSD delivers impressive read speeds of up to 3,400MB/s, ideal for gaming and data-intensive applications.
  • Its compact M.2 2230 form factor makes it a great choice for portable setups, like ultrabooks and mini PCs.
  • The drive offers excellent durability with shock resistance, which is beneficial for on-the-go users and gamers.
  • It is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0, making it versatile for older systems while still offering Gen 4.0 performance for newer ones.
  • Users appreciate the easy installation process, with minimal setup required for most devices.
  • The low heat output ensures better thermal performance, which is a plus for small form factor builds like the Steam Deck.

Cons

  • Some users report needing BIOS updates for compatibility, which may be a hassle for those without technical experience.
  • The 1TB capacity may not be sufficient for users who need large amounts of storage for heavy gaming or media editing.
  • Although it performs well in Gen 4.0 systems, those without PCIe 4.0 support might not experience its full potential.
  • A few buyers note that the price is slightly higher compared to other SSDs with similar capacities and speeds.
  • While shock resistance is beneficial, it's still not the most rugged drive for extreme conditions, like heavy-duty field use.
  • In some cases, users reported slower-than-expected speeds on non-optimized systems, which could be frustrating for those upgrading older hardware.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from multiple platforms and languages worldwide, including both strengths and weaknesses, we've provided an in-depth review of this SSD. Our ratings reflect genuine experiences, with spam, incentivized reviews, and off-topic responses filtered out for accuracy and quality. The INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD has generally been well-received, though certain aspects, such as compatibility with older systems, have drawn mixed reactions. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of key categories to help guide your purchase decision.

Performance
92%
Users are impressed by the high performance of this SSD, with many highlighting its fast read/write speeds that make it a great choice for demanding tasks. Its ability to handle large data transfers quickly enhances overall system performance, particularly in gaming setups and ultrabooks.
However, some users noted that while the performance is generally excellent, the drive may occasionally underperform in certain older systems, particularly when paired with less capable hardware. Additionally, the higher speeds can be hindered by thermal throttling in extended heavy use.
Speed
91%
This SSD excels with its impressive read and write speeds, which many users report as being particularly noticeable during gaming and content creation. The 3,400MB/s read speed and 2,400MB/s write speed make data-heavy applications and large file transfers seamless and efficient.
On the downside, a few users experienced slower speeds than expected when using the SSD with older PCIe 3.0 systems. In these cases, the device’s full potential was not realized, leading to disappointment with the overall speed performance.
Compatibility
80%
20%
Many users appreciate the broad compatibility of this SSD, especially its ability to work with mini PCs, ultrabooks, and gaming devices like Steam Deck and ROG Ally. Its form factor and interface make it an excellent choice for upgrading portable systems without sacrificing performance.
However, some buyers have pointed out that the SSD requires BIOS updates for certain devices, particularly older models. This extra step can be a hurdle for those not familiar with firmware updates or those looking for a plug-and-play experience.
Build Quality
88%
This drive is built to last, with users praising its durability thanks to the 3D TLC NAND technology. The drive’s shock resistance adds to its reliability, making it a good choice for those who need a sturdy, internal SSD that can withstand everyday use, including in portable devices.
However, a small number of users expressed concern about the build’s longevity under heavy, continuous usage. While the drive is robust, extended high-performance tasks in hot environments seem to impact long-term durability, as noted by some buyers.
Ease of Installation
85%
Many buyers found the installation process straightforward and simple. Its compact M.2 2230 design ensures that it fits well in most systems, especially mini PCs and ultrabooks. Users report that the drive is easy to set up, even for those with minimal technical experience.
On the other hand, some users found the installation more difficult than expected, particularly when using non-standard systems or hardware configurations. There were also reports of users needing to adjust BIOS settings, which added some complexity to the process.
Durability
89%
Users generally appreciate the drive’s shock resistance and overall durability. The 600TBW endurance rating makes this SSD an excellent option for users seeking long-term reliability, even under heavy use. Many reviews highlight its robust performance in portable devices like the Steam Deck.
However, a few buyers have noted that under intense usage, especially in hot conditions, the drive may experience throttling that affects its durability over time. While not a widespread issue, it's something to consider for users running high-demand applications continuously.
Heat Management
84%
The SSD performs well in managing heat, with users noting low heat output even during extended gaming or heavy workloads. This contributes to system stability and ensures the drive doesn’t negatively affect the overall thermal environment of the device.
That said, a few users have reported that under certain conditions, particularly in confined spaces like ultrabooks, the drive can get slightly warmer than expected. While this doesn’t seem to cause major issues, some buyers expressed concerns over thermal performance in these setups.
Shock Resistance
90%
This SSD has received high praise for its shock resistance, which makes it a solid choice for portable devices. Users appreciate its ability to endure drops and vibrations without compromising performance, making it ideal for gaming on the go or using in rugged environments.
However, while many users report positive experiences with its shock resistance, a small group of buyers expressed concerns over the drive’s long-term reliability under extreme physical stress. Though rare, such issues were raised after extensive physical wear or heavy-duty use.
Software/Firmware Updates
78%
22%
The drive supports firmware updates, and users have noted the ease of updating via software. This ensures the SSD stays current with the latest optimizations and features, which is especially beneficial for performance improvements over time.
Some users found the need for firmware updates to be an inconvenience, especially those who are not tech-savvy. Additionally, there were complaints about occasional issues with the update process, which caused delays or even compatibility problems for some systems.
Price to Value Ratio
87%
Many buyers feel this SSD offers great value for the price, given its high performance, shock resistance, and compatibility with gaming devices. Users report a significant boost in system performance, particularly in gaming or multitasking scenarios, for a relatively reasonable cost.
A few buyers felt that the price was on the higher end for the 1TB capacity, especially when compared to similar SSDs. While the performance justifies the price for most, some feel they could find a more affordable option with similar performance for less.
Customer Support
75%
25%
When contacted, the customer support team was described as responsive and helpful by many users. They were able to resolve most issues quickly, providing guidance on installation and troubleshooting when necessary.
However, some users expressed frustration with the support team’s delayed response times and the lack of adequate troubleshooting solutions for more complex issues. There were also reports of inconsistent experiences, with some users not receiving follow-up support after their initial inquiries.
Reliability
85%
The overall reliability of this drive has impressed most users, particularly when used in gaming setups or high-demand applications. Many users report minimal issues over time, appreciating its consistent performance without unexpected slowdowns.
However, there were occasional complaints from users experiencing reliability issues after long-term usage, particularly in systems with less-than-ideal cooling. These users noted some performance degradation after extended periods of high-load operation.

Suitable for:

The INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD is an excellent choice for users looking to enhance the performance of small form factor devices like ultrabooks, mini PCs, and handheld gaming consoles such as the Steam Deck or ROG Ally. Its compact M.2 2230 design makes it perfect for those with limited space but who still demand high-speed storage, particularly gamers and content creators who need fast read and write speeds for smooth gameplay and rapid data handling. The drive’s shock resistance and low heat output also make it suitable for users who frequently travel or work in environments where durability is important, such as remote professionals or students with portable devices that require reliable performance on the go.

Not suitable for:

This SSD may not be the best option for users with older or non-PCIe Gen 4.0 compatible systems, as its performance benefits are most noticeable when paired with the latest hardware. While it does support PCIe 3.0, those who do not plan to upgrade their system may not fully utilize its fast read/write speeds, leading to less noticeable improvements in performance. Additionally, users who prefer a plug-and-play experience might find the need for BIOS updates and extra setup steps somewhat inconvenient, particularly if they lack technical knowledge or the tools to make these adjustments. Those who require a larger capacity SSD may also find that the 1TB size is limiting for extensive data storage needs.

Specifications

  • Capacity: This SSD offers 1TB of storage space for fast and reliable data storage.
  • Form Factor: The drive uses a compact M.2 2230 form factor, making it ideal for small form factor devices like handheld consoles and ultrabooks.
  • Interface: The drive is equipped with a PCIe Gen 4.0x4 interface, ensuring high-speed data transfer rates.
  • Read Speed: It delivers impressive read speeds of up to 3,400MB/s for rapid data access.
  • Write Speed: The write speed reaches up to 2,400MB/s, supporting smooth and efficient file transfers.
  • Random Read Speed: This SSD provides random read speeds of up to 320K IOPS for quick data retrieval in multitasking environments.
  • Random Write Speed: It offers random write speeds of up to 500K IOPS for responsive data handling.
  • Endurance: With a durability rating of 600TBW (Terabytes Written), this SSD can handle high write workloads over time.
  • MTBF: The drive has a Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of 1,500,000 hours, indicating exceptional reliability.
  • NAND Type: This SSD uses advanced 3D TLC NAND for improved performance and endurance.
  • Shock Resistance: It is shock-resistant up to 1,500G, making it durable in rugged environments and during transport.
  • Power Management: Supports APST, ASPM, and L1.2 power management features to optimize energy consumption.
  • Compatibility: The drive is compatible with systems running Windows 8, 10, 11, and SteamOS, as well as gaming consoles like Steam Deck and ROG Ally.
  • Heat Management: The SSD has low heat output, which helps maintain stable performance during long sessions.
  • TRIM Support: It supports TRIM, which helps manage unused space and maintain long-term performance.
  • Wear Leveling: Wear leveling technology ensures even distribution of data writes, prolonging the drive's lifespan.
  • Bad Block Management: It includes bad block management to ensure reliable operation by isolating defective areas of the drive.
  • Backward Compatibility: The SSD is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0, offering flexibility for older systems.

FAQ

The INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD is a compact, high-performance solid-state drive designed for small form factor devices, offering impressive read speeds of up to 3,400MB/s and write speeds of up to 2,400MB/s. It features a PCIe Gen 4.0x4 interface, making it ideal for gaming devices and ultrabooks that require fast, reliable storage.

Yes, this drive is compatible with popular gaming consoles like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, as well as mini PCs. It's also compatible with systems running Windows 8, 10, and 11, as well as SteamOS. Just make sure your device supports the M.2 2230 form factor and PCIe Gen 4.0 or 3.0 interface.

The M.2 2230 form factor is extremely compact, making it perfect for small devices like handheld gaming consoles, ultrabooks, and mini PCs. Its small size doesn’t sacrifice performance, offering fast read/write speeds while fitting into limited spaces.

You can expect excellent performance with read speeds up to 3,400MB/s and write speeds of up to 2,400MB/s. This high-speed performance is especially beneficial for gaming setups and high-demand tasks like video editing or large file transfers.

Some users have reported needing a BIOS update for full compatibility, particularly when using the SSD in older systems. Be sure to check your device's documentation or manufacturer website for compatibility details and any necessary firmware or BIOS updates.

This SSD offers a durability rating of 600TBW (Terabytes Written), which is excellent for regular use and ensures long-term reliability. Additionally, its shock resistance of 1,500G and advanced 3D TLC NAND enhance both its performance and longevity.

Installation is straightforward for most users, with no special tools required other than an M.2 slot on your device. Simply insert the drive into the M.2 connector, and it should be ready for use after a quick format. However, you may need to update your BIOS depending on your system.

The INLAND TN436 SSD features advanced power management with APST, ASPM, and L1.2 low power states. These features help optimize power usage, making it an excellent choice for devices like ultrabooks that prioritize battery life.

Yes, the INLAND TN436 is backwards compatible with PCIe 3.0. While it’s designed to deliver the best performance with PCIe 4.0, you can still use it in PCIe 3.0 systems, though the speeds will be somewhat lower than what you'd get with a Gen 4.0 system.

Before purchasing, make sure your device supports the M.2 2230 form factor and PCIe Gen 3.0 or 4.0. Consider whether 1TB is enough storage for your needs, especially if you’re a heavy gamer or need a lot of space for video or design files. Also, be prepared to update your BIOS if needed for compatibility.