Samsung 960 PRO 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD

Samsung 960 PRO 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD — image 1
Samsung 960 PRO 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD — image 2
88%
94%
Performance
92%
Speed (Read/Write)
89%
Reliability
88%
Ease of Installation
85%
Software (Samsung Magician)
91%
Data Security (AES Encryption)
87%
Build Quality
90%
Warranty & Support
83%
Thermals
88%
Compatibility (Desktop PCs)
84%
Long-Term Value
85%
Price to Performance Ratio
More

Overview

The Samsung 960 PRO 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD offers exceptional performance, designed to meet the needs of demanding tasks. With its PCIe 3.0 x4 interface and NVMe protocol, this SSD provides high-speed data transfer with sequential read speeds of up to 3500MB/s and write speeds of 2100MB/s. Ideal for gaming and professional workloads, it delivers reliable performance that can handle large files and resource-intensive applications. Whether you're gaming, editing, or working with large datasets, this SSD ensures smooth and responsive system performance. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those seeking top-tier storage.

Features & Benefits

The Samsung 960 PRO 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD stands out for its V-NAND technology, which ensures greater durability and reliability over time. It also includes AES 256-bit encryption, providing enhanced data security for sensitive files. Additionally, the Samsung Magician software simplifies the management of your SSD, offering tools for firmware updates, performance optimization, and health monitoring. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this drive is built to last and offers peace of mind, making it a valuable long-term investment for high-performance computing.

Best For

This SSD is particularly well-suited for gamers who require fast load times and seamless in-game performance. Professionals working with large files, such as video editors or data analysts, will appreciate its ability to handle high-demand tasks with ease. Additionally, PC builders seeking a reliable and long-lasting storage solution will find this drive a great fit for their builds. With its high read and write speeds, it’s perfect for those who need both performance and durability in their daily computing tasks.

User Feedback

Users frequently highlight the fast speeds and excellent reliability of this SSD, noting how it improves system responsiveness and load times. Many also appreciate the ease of installation, especially with the included Samsung Magician software, which makes managing the drive straightforward. However, some users point out that the price may be a consideration, especially for budget-conscious builders. Despite this, the general consensus is that the 960 PRO delivers a premium experience, justifying the higher price tag for users who prioritize performance and longevity.

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Pros

  • This SSD offers impressive read speeds of up to 3500MB/s, ideal for gaming and professional applications.
  • Fast write speeds up to 2100MB/s help ensure smooth performance during large file transfers.
  • V-NAND technology improves both durability and reliability for long-term use.
  • AES 256-bit encryption adds a strong layer of data security for sensitive information.
  • The included Samsung Magician software simplifies drive management and firmware updates.
  • With a 5-year warranty, this M.2 drive offers users peace of mind over its long lifespan.

Cons

  • The price point may be too high for users looking for budget-friendly storage options.
  • Users without adequate cooling solutions have reported occasional thermal throttling during intense use.
  • Some systems may not be compatible with this M.2 drive due to its NVMe interface.
  • The installation process can be slightly complex for beginners who are unfamiliar with SSDs.
  • While the performance is excellent, the price may not justify the upgrade for non-demanding users.
  • Larger capacities are available from other brands at a lower price, offering similar performance.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, we have compiled an in-depth look at the Samsung 960 PRO 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD. The scores reflect a careful balance of both strengths and pain points, filtered from spam, bot/incentivized, and off-topic reviews to ensure high-quality, authentic feedback. These insights are based on real-world usage from diverse sources, helping potential buyers make an informed decision about this SSD's overall performance and value.

Performance
94%
Users are highly satisfied with the overall performance of this device, especially in resource-heavy tasks like gaming and video editing. The fast read and write speeds ensure quick load times and smooth operation, even under pressure, making it an excellent choice for those who demand top-tier performance from their storage.
While many users praise its speed, a few have noted that the performance may not be fully utilized in lighter, everyday computing tasks. Additionally, some found that the SSD can occasionally run into thermal throttling issues during extended high-performance use.
Speed (Read/Write)
92%
The blazing read/write speeds of up to 3500MB/s and 2100MB/s are key highlights for most buyers. Gamers and professionals alike appreciate how these speeds drastically reduce load times and improve data transfer rates, making demanding applications and multitasking smoother and faster.
Despite its impressive speeds, a small percentage of users have found the write speeds to be lower than advertised in certain real-world scenarios. These instances appear more often when the drive is near full capacity or when subjected to extended high-intensity workloads.
Reliability
89%
This device earns praise for its consistent reliability over time. Thanks to V-NAND technology, users report that it maintains solid performance under heavy usage, which is critical for those relying on it for both gaming and professional tasks. It's known to perform well in a wide range of environments, from gaming rigs to workstations.
However, a few users have experienced issues with longevity, particularly in high-write environments, where some report degradation in performance. While not widespread, this issue is something to consider for users looking for long-term, heavy-duty usage.
Ease of Installation
88%
Installation is straightforward for most users, with the M.2 2280 form factor fitting seamlessly into compatible desktop systems. The process is quick and hassle-free, making it a user-friendly option for both first-time SSD installers and experienced builders.
A few buyers encountered minor issues during installation, primarily due to compatibility concerns with older systems or specific motherboards. Additionally, users who are not familiar with SSD installations may require some additional guidance or troubleshooting.
Software (Samsung Magician)
85%
Samsung Magician software adds significant value by allowing users to manage the drive's health, firmware, and performance. It also offers easy-to-use optimization tools, making it a great companion for users who want to fine-tune their SSD's performance and ensure it remains in top condition.
While the software is generally well-received, some users found the interface a bit clunky or unintuitive, particularly for those who are new to managing hardware with dedicated software. A few have also reported occasional glitches, such as failure to detect the SSD or trouble updating the firmware.
Data Security (AES Encryption)
91%
The AES 256-bit encryption offers strong data protection, which is a key feature for professionals and security-conscious users. Many buyers appreciate the peace of mind it provides, ensuring that sensitive information is well-protected against unauthorized access.
Although the encryption is generally praised, a handful of users noted that the security features can slightly impact overall system performance in some situations. These users felt that the trade-off between performance and security might not always justify the minor slowdowns.
Build Quality
87%
The build quality of this SSD is generally praised for being durable and robust. Users have reported that it holds up well even in more demanding environments, such as custom PC builds and gaming rigs that experience frequent temperature fluctuations.
However, there were a few reports of issues with the physical design, particularly regarding heat dissipation. Some users found that, without proper cooling, the drive can get warmer than expected, which might lead to performance throttling in some cases.
Warranty & Support
90%
Samsung's 5-year warranty provides valuable reassurance to buyers. Many users feel confident knowing that they are backed by a reliable company that offers strong customer support and a generous return policy, which is particularly important for long-term storage solutions.
Though Samsung’s support is generally well-regarded, some users reported slow response times and difficulty reaching a live representative for technical support. A small percentage of users also encountered issues with warranty claims, particularly those who had purchased through third-party sellers.
Thermals
83%
When properly managed, the device performs well with minimal heat generation. For most users, it does not overheat during typical usage, even under heavy workloads like gaming or video editing.
A recurring issue for some buyers is thermal throttling during extended use. In high-performance scenarios or poorly ventilated cases, the drive can get too warm, leading to a noticeable drop in speed. Adding extra cooling or better airflow is often necessary to maintain peak performance.
Compatibility (Desktop PCs)
88%
The SSD is compatible with most modern desktop PCs, which makes it a convenient choice for users upgrading or building a new system. Its M.2 form factor fits easily into most mainstream motherboards with an NVMe slot.
However, older motherboards or systems with limited NVMe support may have difficulty recognizing or installing the drive. In these cases, users may need to upgrade their hardware or purchase additional adapters to make it compatible.
Long-Term Value
84%
Over time, many users find that the Samsung 960 PRO retains its value by providing consistent performance. It is particularly favored by users looking for a reliable long-term investment in high-end storage solutions that won't need replacing quickly.
Some users feel the price is a bit steep for the performance offered, especially given that newer SSDs are entering the market with similar or even superior specs. This leads some to question whether the investment is truly worth it for those on a budget or looking for newer models.
Price to Performance Ratio
85%
For those seeking premium SSD performance, the price-to-performance ratio is often considered strong. Buyers feel that, despite being on the pricier side, the reliability, speed, and longevity of this SSD make it a solid choice in its class.
A few users expressed that the price might not be justified for those looking for budget options, particularly given the competitive landscape of SSDs. Users looking for a more economical solution may find similar performance in lower-cost alternatives.

Suitable for:

The Samsung 960 PRO 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD is ideal for gamers and professionals who require fast, reliable storage for resource-heavy applications. With its impressive read/write speeds and AES encryption, this drive excels in high-demand scenarios, such as gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering. It also suits PC builders who need a high-performance SSD for custom rigs, ensuring smooth multitasking and minimal load times. Additionally, those working with sensitive data will appreciate the built-in security features. If you're building a high-performance desktop for gaming or professional computing, this drive is well-suited to meet your needs.

Not suitable for:

However, this SSD may not be the best choice for users on a tight budget, as its price point could be a barrier for those looking for more affordable storage options. Students or casual users who only need basic storage for everyday tasks might find the cost disproportionate to the benefits. Additionally, while the SSD performs admirably in high-demand scenarios, some users have noted occasional thermal throttling, especially during prolonged intensive use, which could be a concern for those without adequate cooling solutions. Users with older systems lacking NVMe support may also face compatibility issues.

Specifications

  • Capacity: Offers 2TB of high-performance storage for demanding applications.
  • Interface: Uses PCIe 3.0 x4 for fast data transfer speeds and low latency.
  • Form Factor: M.2 2280 form factor, suitable for compact PC builds.
  • Max Read Speed: Provides a maximum sequential read speed of 3500MB/s.
  • Max Write Speed: Offers a maximum sequential write speed of 2100MB/s.
  • NAND Type: Built with V-NAND technology for enhanced reliability and endurance.
  • Encryption: AES 256-bit hardware encryption for data security.
  • Software: Compatible with Samsung Magician software for easy management and firmware updates.
  • Warranty: Includes a 5-year warranty for long-term peace of mind.
  • Operating Temperature: Designed to operate within a temperature range of 0°C to 70°C.
  • Dimensions: Measures 3.15 x 0.87 x 0.09 inches, compact for efficient use in various systems.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most desktop PCs that support M.2 PCIe NVMe drives.
  • Durability: Built to handle high workloads with sustained reliability over time.
  • Power Consumption: Low power consumption, making it efficient for continuous high-performance use.
  • Shock Resistance: Offers high shock resistance to ensure reliable operation in dynamic environments.
  • Data Transfer Protocol: Uses NVMe 1.2 for optimized data transfer speeds.
  • Performance Focus: Optimized for high-performance tasks such as gaming, 4K video editing, and professional computing.
  • Heat Management: Includes built-in thermal management features to prevent overheating during intense usage.
  • Device Type: Solid-state drive designed specifically for desktop PCs and high-performance systems.

FAQ

The Samsung 960 PRO offers impressive read and write speeds up to 3500MB/s and 2100MB/s, which translates to faster load times and smoother gameplay. This high-speed performance is essential for gaming, especially with large game files and demanding graphics.

Installing this SSD is straightforward if your PC supports the M.2 form factor and PCIe 3.0 x4 interface. Simply power down your system, insert the SSD into the M.2 slot, secure it with a screw, and boot up. Ensure your system recognizes it, then use the Samsung Magician software for setup and firmware updates.

The Samsung 960 PRO operates efficiently in temperatures between 0°C and 70°C. It's important to maintain good airflow inside your PC, especially during heavy use, to avoid overheating and to preserve the SSD's lifespan.

This M.2 drive is designed for desktop PCs, and while it may fit in certain laptops that support M.2 2280 and PCIe 3.0 x4, compatibility should be verified first. Check your laptop’s specifications for NVMe support before purchasing.

Yes, it features AES 256-bit hardware encryption, which ensures that your data remains secure even if the SSD is lost or stolen. This feature is especially useful for users handling sensitive information.

Absolutely. The high read and write speeds of this SSD make it well-suited for demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and large-scale data transfers. It will significantly improve workflow efficiency for professionals.

The Samsung 960 PRO comes with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind for long-term use. This warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship under normal use.

Some users have reported occasional thermal throttling during heavy use, especially if their PC lacks proper cooling. While not a widespread issue, it's something to consider for users planning to push the SSD's limits.

The 960 PRO offers better performance with higher endurance, making it ideal for heavy workloads and professional tasks. The 960 EVO is more affordable but sacrifices some speed and longevity, making it more suitable for casual users.

Samsung Magician software allows you to easily manage the drive, update firmware, monitor drive health, and optimize performance. It’s a user-friendly tool that helps ensure your drive remains in top condition.