Kingston A400 480GB SSD

85%

Performance

Value for Money

Reliability

Durability

Compatibility

Ease of Installation

Capacity

Boot Time Improvement

Customer Support

Portability

Software/Setup Experience

Build Quality

Noise Levels

Overview

The Kingston A400 480GB SSD is a reliable solid-state drive designed to boost performance for laptops, desktops, and mobile devices. With read speeds up to 500MB/s and write speeds up to 450MB/s, this drive delivers a significant improvement over traditional hard drives. Its 7mm form factor ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, even those with limited space. Whether you’re upgrading an old system or building a new one, this drive offers solid reliability and an excellent balance of speed and affordability for those seeking better storage performance.

Features & Benefits

The A400 480GB SSD offers a noticeable upgrade over mechanical hard drives, with faster boot times and smoother file transfers. Its shock-resistant design ensures durability, making it suitable for mobile devices or systems subject to occasional bumps. Using the SATA 3.0 interface, it boasts wide compatibility across many devices, making it easy to install and use. Additionally, its competitive price makes it a great option for those seeking an affordable performance upgrade without compromising on quality or speed.

Best For

This Kingston SSD is an ideal choice for users looking to upgrade their old laptop or desktop, especially for those who need a boost in performance without breaking the bank. Its slim 7mm form factor fits perfectly in ultrabooks and slim notebooks, while the 480GB capacity offers ample space for most users' needs. Budget-conscious consumers who want reliable storage without sacrificing speed will find it an excellent option. The drive is also perfect for those seeking a durable, portable solution for on-the-go use.

User Feedback

With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 200,000 users, this solid-state drive is praised for its affordability and the noticeable boost in system speed. Many users report faster boot times and smoother performance, making it a popular choice for those upgrading older systems. However, some have mentioned minor setup challenges, though these are generally resolved after installation. Long-term performance is solid, with users appreciating its reliable durability over time, especially for mobile setups.

#Internal Solid State Drives

#Data Storage

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Pros

This solid-state drive offers fast read speeds of up to 500MB/s, improving system performance significantly.
Ideal for upgrading older laptops and desktops, providing noticeable boosts in boot times and responsiveness.
The 7mm form factor makes it compatible with ultrabooks and other devices with limited space.
A great option for budget-conscious users looking for a reliable 480GB SSD without sacrificing speed.
Shock and vibration resistance ensures durability, making it suitable for mobile and travel use.
The SATA 3.0 interface ensures broad compatibility with a wide range of devices, including laptops and desktops.

Cons

Some users experienced difficulty with the initial setup, especially with cloning software.
While it offers solid speeds, users seeking faster read/write speeds for heavy gaming or video editing might find it lacking.
The 480GB capacity may be too small for those with large file storage needs, such as video professionals.
A few buyers noted occasional slowdowns during extended use or high-intensity tasks.
This SSD does not come with bundled software for easier setup or migration, which could be inconvenient for less tech-savvy users.
Not the best choice for power users who need enterprise-level performance or advanced features.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, including feedback from multiple languages and platforms, we've compiled a comprehensive overview of the Kingston A400 480GB SSD. We filtered out spam, bot, incentivized, and duplicated reviews to ensure that only high-quality, authentic feedback informs our results. The ratings reflect both the strengths and potential pain points of this product, offering a balanced perspective based on real-world usage from diverse sources.

Performance

88%

Users love the impressive read/write speeds, noting significant improvements in overall system performance. The fast data transfer rates make this device ideal for tasks that require high-speed access, such as booting up operating systems or transferring large files.

A few users pointed out that the performance might not be as high as more expensive alternatives, especially in intense multitasking or gaming scenarios. While adequate for most tasks, the drive can struggle with sustained high-speed transfers under heavy load.

Value for Money

92%

The A400 SSD offers excellent value for its price, with many buyers praising its affordability while still providing solid performance. It's a popular choice for users on a budget who need reliable storage for everyday computing tasks.

Some users feel that the lower price comes with some compromises in build quality, especially when compared to higher-end models. Additionally, a few mentioned that certain features, like bundled software, are missing at this price point.

Reliability

85%

This device is known for its solid and reliable performance, especially when used for typical computing tasks. Most users report that it holds up well over time, providing dependable storage for everyday use without frequent failures.

However, a few buyers experienced issues with reliability after extended use, particularly with the drive showing signs of slowing down over several months. While not widespread, these problems were noted in some reviews.

Durability

84%

The shock-resistant design of the A400 makes it a great option for mobile users. Many people appreciate how it withstands the usual bumps and jostles of daily use, especially in laptops or external enclosures.

A few users have reported that while the drive is shock-resistant, it doesn't always perform well under extreme conditions. There were some complaints about the durability when exposed to prolonged high temperatures or heavy physical stress.

Compatibility

90%

With its SATA 3.0 interface, this solid-state drive works seamlessly across a wide range of devices, including laptops, desktops, and mobile setups. Users have noted how easy it is to install and use in different systems without worrying about compatibility issues.

While the A400 is compatible with most devices, a few users with older systems or certain configurations struggled with setup. There were reports of compatibility issues with specific types of laptops or custom-built PCs.

Ease of Installation

80%

20%

Installing this SSD is generally straightforward, with many users highlighting the ease of installation in both laptops and desktops. The 7mm form factor also ensures that it fits into most slim devices, making it a convenient upgrade option.

Despite its simple installation for most, a few users mentioned difficulty in cloning their old drive or configuring the SSD as their primary boot device. Some also noted that the drive did not come with detailed installation instructions, making the process less intuitive for beginners.

Capacity

87%

At 480GB, this SSD offers ample space for a typical user who needs faster storage for OS, applications, and important files. Many buyers have found it to be a great balance of storage capacity and speed for their daily tasks.

Some users felt that 480GB may be limiting for certain power users, especially those who require more storage for large files, games, or media. These users pointed out that the 480GB capacity can fill up quickly if used for high-demand applications.

Boot Time Improvement

89%

One of the most commonly praised aspects is the noticeable improvement in boot times. Users often report their systems starting up much faster after installing the A400, which significantly enhances their overall computing experience.

However, a few users noted that while boot times improved, the performance boost wasn't as dramatic as they expected when upgrading from an older HDD. These users felt that other factors, such as CPU or RAM, played a larger role in their system's overall speed.

Customer Support

75%

25%

Kingston's customer support has been helpful for many users, with quick responses and solutions to common issues. Several buyers were satisfied with the troubleshooting and assistance provided when issues arose with the drive.

On the other hand, some users experienced slow or unhelpful responses from customer support. A few buyers felt that their issues were not resolved promptly, particularly in cases of warranty claims or technical troubleshooting.

Portability

86%

The compact 7mm form factor makes the A400 SSD highly portable, a feature that many users find useful for mobile setups or external enclosures. It's easy to carry around or integrate into portable systems.

While the drive is portable, some users pointed out that its external performance as a portable drive could be limited by slower USB connections or inadequate enclosures. These users found that the A400's speed was somewhat constrained in portable setups.

Software/Setup Experience

78%

22%

Many users appreciate the basic setup process and the SSD's general plug-and-play compatibility. For those with experience, the installation is quick and hassle-free, especially in newer systems that support SATA 3.0.

Several buyers were frustrated by the lack of additional software tools that could simplify setup, such as cloning software. Additionally, a few mentioned that the drive didn't come with enough clear instructions or guides for those less familiar with SSD installation.

Build Quality

82%

18%

The A400 is solidly built and provides good performance for its price. Users appreciate that it's well-constructed considering its budget-friendly price point, especially for users who need a reliable storage option.

However, some users felt that the build quality didn't feel premium compared to other SSDs in a similar price range. A few buyers noted that the drive felt slightly lighter or thinner than expected, though this didn't seem to affect its functionality.

Noise Levels

91%

The A400 SSD operates quietly, a feature that many users appreciate, especially in devices where silence is important, such as in home offices or during media consumption. It's practically inaudible during everyday tasks.

A few users mentioned that the drive occasionally emitted a faint noise during high-load tasks, but this was generally rare. For the most part, the noise levels are minimal and not noticeable during regular use.

Suitable for:

The Kingston A400 480GB SSD is an excellent choice for users who need to boost the performance of their older laptops or desktops without breaking the bank. It’s particularly suitable for budget-conscious individuals looking to upgrade their system’s speed with faster boot times and file transfers. For students, professionals, or casual users who primarily use their devices for everyday tasks like browsing, word processing, or media consumption, this solid-state drive provides a noticeable performance boost. Those with slim ultrabooks or compact devices will appreciate its 7mm form factor, ensuring compatibility with even the tightest spaces. Furthermore, its durability makes it an appealing option for mobile users, such as those who need reliable performance while traveling or working remotely.

Not suitable for:

However, the Kingston A400 480GB SSD might not meet the needs of users seeking high-end performance for gaming, video editing, or other resource-intensive tasks. While it delivers solid read/write speeds, those demanding faster, sustained performance during heavy multitasking or high-speed file transfers may find it lacking. Power users with large storage needs might also find the 480GB capacity limiting, particularly for video files or large game libraries. Additionally, users working in extreme conditions or requiring additional software support for cloning and setup may be disappointed by the absence of advanced tools and the occasional difficulty in installation.

Specifications

Capacity: Offers 480GB of storage, suitable for users needing a balance between space and speed.
Interface: Uses SATA 3.0 (6Gb/s), ensuring compatibility with most modern laptops and desktops.
Read Speed: Supports read speeds up to 500MB/s, enhancing system responsiveness and data access.
Write Speed: Offers write speeds up to 450MB/s, improving file transfer and saving times.
Form Factor: Comes in a 2.5-inch, 7mm form factor, ideal for installation in ultrabooks or slim devices.
Shock Resistance: Built with shock and vibration resistance for added durability, especially in mobile environments.
Temperature Range: Operates within an operating temperature range of 0°C to 70°C, making it versatile for various conditions.
Compatibility: Compatible with laptops, desktops, and mobile computing devices that support 2.5-inch SSDs.
Power Consumption: Low power consumption, contributing to longer battery life when used in laptops and portable devices.
Reliability: Rated for long-term reliability with a focus on stable performance under normal usage conditions.
Durability: Designed to withstand physical impacts, making it a good option for users needing durable storage solutions.
Warranty: Backed by a 3-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers.
Weight: Weighs approximately 45 grams, adding minimal bulk to devices it is installed in.
Drive Type: Uses NAND flash memory, providing faster data access compared to traditional hard drives.
Write Endurance: Designed for moderate write endurance, suitable for typical consumer use cases.
Operating System Support: Supports common operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
TRIM Support: Supports TRIM, helping maintain optimal performance by managing unused data blocks.
Data Transfer: Offers fast data transfer rates, making it ideal for upgrading older systems or handling heavy data loads.

FAQ

The Kingston A400 480GB SSD is a solid-state drive designed to boost system performance with fast read and write speeds of up to 500MB/s and 450MB/s. It has a 7mm form factor, making it compatible with slim devices like ultrabooks and laptops. It's ideal for users looking to upgrade storage on desktops or mobile devices.

Installation of this SSD is straightforward. Simply remove the old hard drive from your device, connect the A400 SSD in the same SATA port, and reassemble the device. You may need to reinstall your operating system or use cloning software to transfer data from your old drive.

The Kingston A400 480GB SSD uses a standard SATA 3.0 interface, making it compatible with most desktops, laptops, and mobile devices that support 2.5-inch drives. Ensure your device supports SATA III (6Gb/s) for optimal performance, but it will also work with slower SATA II (3Gb/s) ports.

Upgrading to the A400 SSD will significantly improve system performance, including faster boot times, quicker file transfers, and overall better responsiveness. Many users report noticeable improvements in speed, particularly on older systems that are currently running slower HDDs.

This SSD is built to be shock and vibration resistant, which makes it a durable option for portable use. It's designed to withstand the physical impacts often encountered in mobile devices like laptops and ultrabooks, offering reliable performance even on the go.

No, the Kingston A400 480GB SSD does not come with bundled software for data migration. However, third-party software such as Clonezilla or Macrium Reflect can be used to clone your existing drive to the SSD if you need to transfer data before installation.

While this SSD provides great performance for everyday computing and can be used in a gaming PC, it's not the fastest option available for gaming. If you're looking for higher performance in tasks like gaming or video editing, you may want to consider SSDs with even faster read/write speeds.

The A400 SSD provides a solid performance boost for most users, but for intensive tasks like video editing, you may find its speeds slightly limiting compared to higher-end models. It's more suited for general computing and light to moderate workloads.

The lifespan of the A400 SSD is influenced by factors like write cycles, but with typical usage, it should last for many years. Kingston offers a 3-year warranty on this drive, which provides additional peace of mind for users concerned about longevity.

Some users have reported initial setup issues, particularly with cloning software or recognizing the drive. However, once the SSD is installed and data is transferred, it generally performs well over the long term, with no major reliability concerns noted in user reviews.