Overview

The Samsung 860 PRO 2TB SSD is a high-performance internal drive designed for both personal and professional users. Built with a 2.5-inch form factor, it utilizes a SATA III interface, ensuring broad compatibility across many devices, from laptops to desktop PCs. As one of the more reliable options in the market, this SSD offers excellent speed and longevity, making it ideal for users who need stable and efficient storage. Whether for everyday computing or more demanding workloads, the 860 PRO 2TB stands out for its reliable performance and durability.

Features & Benefits

The 860 PRO 2TB SSD boasts impressive performance, with sequential read speeds of up to 560 MB/s and write speeds of 530 MB/s. This speed, coupled with Samsung's proprietary V-NAND technology, ensures exceptional data integrity and long-lasting durability. With AES 256-bit hardware encryption, it also provides robust security for sensitive files. The 2TB model strikes an excellent balance between price and performance, making it a great option for users who want both high capacity and solid speed without going for the higher-end variants. The drive offers consistent performance under heavy use, ensuring long-term reliability.

Best For

The 860 PRO 2TB SSD is ideal for gamers, professionals, and power users who demand both performance and reliability. Gamers will appreciate its fast load times and smooth gaming experience, especially when upgrading from a traditional HDD. Professionals in fields such as video editing, graphic design, and software development will benefit from its high-speed data transfer and enhanced endurance for demanding tasks. This SSD is also well-suited for anyone needing secure storage with AES encryption, providing peace of mind for those who handle sensitive data.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the 860 PRO 2TB SSD for its speed and stability, with many noting noticeable improvements in system boot times and file transfer speeds. Reviewers also highlight the drive's long lifespan, making it a reliable choice for users who want a set-and-forget storage solution. Some users mention that the initial setup can be tricky for beginners, especially when cloning data or configuring it for a new system. However, once installed, it runs seamlessly with both Windows and Mac systems, offering excellent value for the price.

Pros

  • Offers fast read speeds up to 560 MB/s and write speeds up to 530 MB/s, ideal for gamers and professionals alike.
  • AES 256-bit hardware encryption provides enhanced data security, making it suitable for sensitive work-related tasks.
  • Powered by Samsung's V-NAND technology, ensuring durability and long-term reliability under heavy workloads.
  • Works seamlessly with both Windows and Mac devices, offering broad compatibility for various systems.
  • 2TB capacity strikes a good balance of price and performance for users needing ample storage without overpaying.
  • Highly appreciated for its long lifespan, with many users praising its stability even under continuous use.

Cons

  • Installation may be challenging for beginners, with some users finding the setup process tricky, especially with encryption.
  • Higher price point compared to similar 2TB SSDs, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
  • Users with older systems that lack SATA III support may not experience the full performance benefits.
  • Not the best option for casual users who don’t need the high speed and advanced features offered by this device.
  • Some users report that while it works well, it may not deliver a noticeable difference in performance for everyday tasks.
  • The 2.5-inch form factor may not be compatible with certain devices without the right adapter or mounting options.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple global sources and languages, the Samsung 860 PRO 2TB SSD received strong overall feedback. Spam, bot-generated, or off-topic comments were excluded to ensure only genuine, high-quality reviews influenced the ratings. While praised for its speed and reliability, some users noted challenges with setup. Both its strengths and occasional drawbacks have been reflected in the ratings, based on diverse customer experiences worldwide.

Performance
94%
Users love the impressive read and write speeds of this SSD, which significantly boost their system performance. Whether for gaming, media editing, or running intensive applications, the speed makes a noticeable difference, reducing load times and improving responsiveness.
A few users have noted that while the SSD performs well under normal usage, it can become slightly slower when dealing with long-term heavy workloads. Some report minor throttling under extreme conditions, though this is not a widespread issue.
Value for Money
89%
The 2TB version offers a good balance between price and performance, making it an excellent choice for users who need solid storage without breaking the bank. It’s a competitive option when compared to similar drives in this price range, offering great long-term value.
While the price is fair for the performance, some feel that other SSDs with similar capacities could offer more affordable options for users on a budget. The higher price point may not justify the additional features for casual users.
Reliability & Durability
92%
Many users have praised the drive’s robust build and reliability, especially when used in high-demand scenarios. The Samsung V-NAND technology plays a crucial role in providing durability, ensuring the SSD can handle heavy workloads with consistent performance over time.
A few users experienced issues with premature wear after extended use in some specific conditions, though these reports are rare. Some noted that the longevity might not meet expectations for extreme professional use without proper monitoring.
Security Features
88%
The AES 256-bit hardware encryption is a standout feature for security-conscious users. It ensures that sensitive data is well protected, especially for professionals who handle confidential information. This encryption is a great addition for both personal and business use.
While the encryption is a strong feature, some users found that setting it up was slightly more complicated than expected, especially for those unfamiliar with security protocols. A more user-friendly setup process would have been appreciated.
Ease of Setup
72%
28%
For tech-savvy users, the setup process is relatively straightforward, especially when installing on Windows or Mac. The drive works well after installation with minimal additional configuration needed in most cases.
Several users found the installation process challenging, particularly those who are not as familiar with SSD upgrades. Some faced difficulties with partitioning or ensuring compatibility, which led to frustration for beginners.
Compatibility
85%
The SSD works seamlessly with both Windows and Mac devices, making it a versatile choice for many users. Its SATA III interface ensures broad compatibility across a wide range of systems, providing a straightforward upgrade for most setups.
A few users mentioned occasional issues with compatibility on older systems, especially those not equipped with SATA III ports. In such cases, the drive might not reach its full potential performance.
Software & Firmware Experience
80%
20%
The Samsung Magician software provides useful tools for managing the drive, including firmware updates and performance monitoring. Users appreciate having the software suite to keep the drive running optimally.
Some users found the software interface a bit clunky and not as intuitive as they had hoped. Additionally, there were occasional complaints about firmware updates causing temporary issues for specific setups.
Endurance for Heavy Workloads
91%
This SSD is built to handle heavy workloads without compromising on performance. Users who rely on demanding tasks such as video editing or large database management have noted that the drive holds up well over extended use.
A small number of users who push the drive to its limits reported that it can experience slight performance degradation over time. However, this is not a significant issue for most typical users.
Thermal Management
83%
The drive performs well in most environments without significant overheating. Users report that even under load, it maintains stable temperatures, making it reliable for use in long sessions of gaming or professional work.
Under heavy use, especially in poorly ventilated setups, some users noted that the SSD can get warmer than expected. In extreme conditions, the temperature may affect performance slightly.
Warranty & Customer Support
90%
Samsung’s 5-year limited warranty and responsive customer support provide peace of mind for users. Those who encountered issues with the drive have generally reported a smooth experience with warranty claims and technical assistance.
While the warranty is solid, a few users found the response time from customer support to be slower than expected. In rare cases, resolving issues required multiple follow-ups.
Speed (Read/Write)
96%
The read and write speeds are consistently praised, with many users noting a substantial improvement in system responsiveness. Whether for gaming, multitasking, or professional applications, the drive delivers swift performance that meets user expectations.
A few users did report that the drive can experience a slight reduction in speed under extreme conditions or prolonged use. However, this is a minor issue that does not affect overall performance for most users.
Long-Term Value
88%
The drive provides excellent long-term value, with users appreciating its balance of performance and price. Given its durability, security features, and Samsung’s reputation for quality, many consider it a solid investment for years to come.
While the long-term value is generally strong, a few users felt that the initial price could be a bit high when compared to other drives offering similar performance. The value proposition might not be as compelling for casual users who don’t need high-end features.

Suitable for:

The Samsung 860 PRO 2TB SSD is ideal for users who need high performance, reliability, and robust data security. Gamers who want faster load times and smooth gameplay will benefit from the impressive read/write speeds, while professionals in fields like video editing, graphic design, and software development can take advantage of its durability and AES 256-bit hardware encryption for data protection. The 2TB capacity strikes a good balance between price and performance, making it suitable for those who need ample storage without breaking the bank. Whether you're a student looking to upgrade your laptop for gaming or a business professional requiring dependable storage, this device will support both casual and demanding workloads alike.

Not suitable for:

This SSD may not be the best option for users on a tight budget, as its higher price point could be seen as overkill for basic tasks like word processing or light web browsing. While the drive excels in performance, users with older systems that lack SATA III compatibility may not fully benefit from its speed, potentially limiting its effectiveness. Additionally, beginners who are not comfortable with SSD installation or encryption setup may find the process challenging. For those seeking a simple, no-fuss drive for casual use, this model might feel too advanced and require a steeper learning curve.

Specifications

  • Capacity: The SSD offers a 2TB storage capacity, providing ample space for a wide range of files and applications.
  • Interface: Uses a SATA III interface, ensuring compatibility with most modern laptops and desktops.
  • Sequential Read Speed: Delivers sequential read speeds of up to 560 MB/s for fast data access.
  • Sequential Write Speed: Offers sequential write speeds up to 530 MB/s, enhancing performance during large file transfers.
  • Encryption: Supports AES 256-bit hardware encryption, ensuring secure data protection and privacy.
  • Technology: Powered by Samsung's V-NAND technology, which improves durability and reliability for long-term usage.
  • Form Factor: Has a 2.5-inch form factor, making it suitable for installation in a variety of devices including laptops and desktops.
  • Endurance: Designed with high endurance to withstand heavy workloads, making it ideal for professional use.
  • MTBF: The SSD has a mean time between failures (MTBF) of 1.5 million hours, ensuring long-term reliability.
  • Warranty: Backed by a 5-year limited warranty, providing confidence in its longevity and quality.
  • Operating Temperature: Functions optimally in an operating temperature range of 0°C to 70°C.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, offering broad support across devices.
  • Power Loss Protection: Includes power loss protection to safeguard your data in case of unexpected shutdowns.
  • Shock Resistance: Features shock resistance, protecting your data from potential damage due to physical impacts.
  • Data Transfer Type: Supports fast data transfers through the SATA III interface, ensuring high-speed performance.
  • Dimensions: Measures 2.75 x 3.95 x 0.27 inches, fitting easily into standard 2.5-inch drive bays.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 2.6 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to handle during installation.
  • S.M.A.R.T Monitoring: Supports S.M.A.R.T (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) for proactive monitoring of drive health.

FAQ

The Samsung 860 PRO 2TB SSD offers high performance with sequential read speeds up to 560 MB/s and write speeds up to 530 MB/s, powered by Samsung's V-NAND technology. It also features AES 256-bit hardware encryption for data security, making it suitable for both personal and professional use.

To install the 860 PRO 2TB SSD, simply connect it to a compatible SATA III port on your laptop or desktop. Make sure to secure the drive in place using a 2.5-inch drive slot or adapter. Afterward, you can format it through your operating system to get started.

Yes, this SSD works seamlessly with both Windows and Mac devices. Users have reported smooth performance across different systems, but beginners may need some help with the initial setup process, especially when configuring encryption features.

The 860 PRO 2TB SSD is significantly faster than traditional hard drives (HDDs). With read speeds up to 560 MB/s and write speeds up to 530 MB/s, it provides a notable performance boost for tasks like gaming, video editing, and file transfers.

The Samsung 860 PRO 2TB SSD is known for its long lifespan, offering high endurance for heavy workloads. It has a mean time between failures (MTBF) of 1.5 million hours and is backed by a 5-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.

Yes, this SSD is ideal for both gaming and professional work. Its high-speed performance and large storage capacity make it perfect for handling resource-intensive applications, whether you’re editing videos or running demanding games.

AES 256-bit encryption is a high level of data encryption that secures sensitive information on your SSD. This feature is crucial for users who handle confidential business data or personal information, offering extra protection in case of theft or loss.

No special maintenance is required for the Samsung 860 PRO 2TB SSD. However, it's important to keep the drive in a well-ventilated area and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. Regular backups are also recommended to safeguard your data.

Some users have reported that the setup can be tricky, especially when configuring encryption features, which may be overwhelming for beginners. Additionally, while it offers excellent speed and reliability, it comes at a higher price compared to some other SSDs on the market.

Yes, the Samsung 860 PRO 2TB SSD is an excellent choice for upgrading laptop or desktop storage. Its performance and capacity make it perfect for replacing older hard drives or smaller SSDs, and it provides fast, reliable storage for all your computing needs.