Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD

85%

Performance

Ease of Installation

Thermal Performance

Compatibility

Value for Money

Speed (Read/Write)

Build Quality

Long-Term Durability

Size/Form Factor

Customer Support

Gaming Performance

Software and Firmware Updates

Packaging/Accessories

Overview

The Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD is a reliable storage solution offering impressive performance. With PCIe 3.0 support, it delivers sequential read speeds of up to 3,500 MB/s, making it a significant upgrade over traditional hard drives. This NVMe drive provides a noticeable boost in load times and overall system responsiveness, ideal for users who need fast access to large files. Whether you're upgrading a PC or laptop, this product is designed for smooth and reliable operation during intense tasks like gaming or content creation. The compact M.2 form factor ensures compatibility with most modern devices.

Features & Benefits

The Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD stands out with its support for NVMe PCIe 3.0, offering a substantial improvement in data transfer rates and system responsiveness compared to older SATA drives. With speeds of up to 6 times faster than traditional SSDs, this 1TB SSD ensures that users experience faster load times and smooth performance during demanding tasks. The compact M.2 form factor allows for easy installation in most desktops and laptops, while its built-in thermal protection helps prevent overheating, ensuring that the drive stays stable and reliable over time.

Best For

This NVMe drive is best suited for gamers who want quick load times and smooth gameplay. Its high read and write speeds are ideal for content creators working with large files or anyone requiring high-performance storage for resource-heavy applications. PC and laptop users seeking an affordable storage upgrade will also appreciate the Samsung 980's combination of speed, capacity, and price. It’s particularly useful for anyone needing to upgrade without breaking the bank but still desiring cutting-edge performance.

User Feedback

Many users rave about the Samsung 980 1TB SSD’s speed and overall value. Its fast read speeds make a noticeable difference for gaming setups, offering quick game load times and smoother performance. Installation is straightforward, making it accessible even for those who aren’t tech experts. However, some users have pointed out that it is not compatible with PS5, which may limit its appeal for console gamers. While most users find it reliable, a few mention that it could perform slightly better under sustained workloads.

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Pros

The Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD offers impressive read speeds of up to 3,500 MB/s, ideal for gamers and power users.
Its compact M.2 2280 form factor ensures easy installation in most modern laptops and desktops.
Users appreciate the SSD's affordability compared to other high-performance options in the market.
Dynamic thermal protection helps maintain stable performance during extended use, preventing overheating.
Many users find it an excellent choice for upgrading storage without breaking the bank.
Installation is quick and straightforward, making it a good option for DIY upgrades.

Cons

The Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD is not compatible with the PS5, limiting its use for console gamers.
Some users report that its performance could be overkill for everyday tasks or budget systems.
It lacks a bundled heatsink, which could be important for users pushing it in high-performance setups.
Older systems without M.2 support may not be able to take full advantage of its speed.
A few users have pointed out that it could be less reliable over time under heavy, continuous loads.
While it’s affordable, it may not offer enough value for users who don’t need the full 1TB capacity.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from multiple platforms and languages, the ratings for the Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD reflect authentic user experiences. Spam, bot-generated, and off-topic reviews were filtered out to ensure accurate insights. Both strengths, such as its performance, and limitations, including some compatibility concerns, are reflected in the scores, helping buyers make an informed decision based on high-quality reviews across a range of sources.

Performance

93%

Many users are impressed with the lightning-fast speeds, especially when it comes to gaming and data-heavy applications. The 3,500 MB/s read speed significantly improves load times and overall system performance, making it a great choice for those looking for a noticeable speed boost.

Some users have noted that the drive doesn't deliver the same performance in real-world use as in the specs. Occasionally, users report that large file transfers don't always reach peak speeds, particularly when the system isn't optimized or under heavy load.

Ease of Installation

90%

Installation is straightforward, and most users report no issues setting up the drive, thanks to the compact M.2 form factor. It fits easily into most modern PCs and laptops without requiring complicated steps or additional tools.

A few buyers have mentioned difficulty with installation in certain older systems or budget laptops that don’t support the M.2 interface. Additionally, some less tech-savvy users found it slightly tricky to secure the drive in place due to its small size.

Thermal Performance

85%

The dynamic thermal protection feature ensures stable performance over time, especially during intensive use. Many users appreciate how it helps maintain the drive’s longevity and prevents overheating during gaming or file transfers.

Despite the thermal protection, some users feel that it could perform better under extended heavy workloads. A few have experienced throttling or excessive heat when pushing the drive to its limits, especially in compact or poorly ventilated systems.

Compatibility

72%

28%

For PC and Mac users, this drive offers excellent compatibility and works seamlessly with a wide range of devices. It's a plug-and-play solution for many systems, providing reliable performance without the need for extra software.

Unfortunately, the drive is not compatible with PS5, which has disappointed some console gamers. Additionally, some users have encountered issues with certain systems that require BIOS updates or specific configuration adjustments to ensure full compatibility.

Value for Money

88%

Considering its high performance and competitive price, many buyers feel that this SSD offers excellent value. It's a solid option for those looking for a fast and reliable storage upgrade without breaking the bank.

However, a few users argue that while it's a good deal, there are still cheaper alternatives for those who only need basic storage. Some feel that the slightly higher cost compared to entry-level SSDs isn't justified for more casual or low-demand use cases.

Speed (Read/Write)

95%

Users consistently praise the drive’s impressive sequential read and write speeds, making it an excellent choice for tasks that require fast data access, such as video editing or game loading. Its speed boost is noticeable in both everyday computing and more demanding workflows.

While the read/write speeds are impressive, some users have pointed out that the actual performance can vary depending on the system. Factors like CPU, motherboard, and other hardware can affect whether users get the full potential out of the drive.

Build Quality

86%

The compact, lightweight design of this SSD makes it a durable yet portable choice for both desktop and laptop users. The robust M.2 form factor ensures it's built to withstand typical wear and tear during everyday use.

However, a small number of users have reported concerns over the drive's physical durability, particularly with the thin design potentially making it more susceptible to damage if mishandled or improperly installed in tight spaces.

Long-Term Durability

81%

19%

Buyers are generally satisfied with the long-term durability of the device, especially with its thermal protection ensuring stable performance. Many find that it maintains reliable performance even after extended usage.

That said, some have expressed concerns about the long-term endurance of the drive, especially when subjected to heavy write cycles. These concerns stem from potential wear on the flash cells over time, though no significant failures have been reported.

Size/Form Factor

92%

The M.2 2280 form factor is compact and convenient, fitting seamlessly into a variety of systems without taking up much space. Users appreciate the small size that allows for an efficient use of internal slots, freeing up room for other components.

On the downside, some users noted that the small size can make installation tricky, especially in cramped cases or in systems with limited space. This might require some extra care or adapters for proper installation.

Customer Support

78%

22%

Samsung’s customer support is generally well-regarded for providing quick and helpful responses to technical issues. Some users have praised the service for resolving installation or compatibility issues efficiently.

However, there are instances where users have found customer service to be slow or unhelpful when dealing with more complex problems. Some users have had difficulty reaching support or receiving timely assistance for more advanced troubleshooting needs.

Gaming Performance

91%

This drive shines when it comes to gaming, offering fast load times and smooth performance during intensive gaming sessions. Many gamers report a noticeable improvement in load times for large titles and seamless gameplay experiences.

Though performance is generally excellent, some users have reported minor slowdowns in games with heavy read/write requirements or when running on older systems. These issues can be more noticeable in titles that are optimized for faster SSDs.

Software and Firmware Updates

80%

20%

The software is straightforward and easy to use, providing options for firmware updates and drive health monitoring. Users appreciate the reliability and user-friendly interface of the management tool.

Some users have reported that the software occasionally crashes or fails to recognize the drive, especially after updates. This has led to frustrations for those trying to keep the SSD optimized over time.

Packaging/Accessories

70%

30%

The packaging is simple but functional, offering basic protection for the drive during shipping. It's straightforward and unassuming, keeping the focus on the product itself.

However, some users were disappointed that the package does not include accessories like a mounting bracket or screws for installation. This makes it less convenient for those upgrading from an older drive in a system that requires specific mounting components.

Suitable for:

The Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD is ideal for users who require fast, reliable storage for demanding applications. Gamers will appreciate its impressive read speeds of up to 3,500 MB/s, which significantly reduces load times and provides a smoother gaming experience. Content creators, especially those working with large video files, will benefit from the quick data transfer speeds and stable performance. Additionally, those upgrading their PC or laptop for general use, looking for a high-performance yet affordable storage option, will find this SSD a valuable asset, as its M.2 form factor is easy to install in most modern systems.

Not suitable for:

This SSD may not be the best choice for console gamers, as the Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD is not compatible with PS5. Those who rely on gaming consoles for their entertainment will need to look for alternatives. Additionally, users with older systems that lack an M.2 slot or those who don’t have the required BIOS settings may struggle with installation. While its performance is excellent for typical desktop and laptop setups, people with budget PCs or those who don’t require high-speed transfers for large files might find less expensive storage options more suitable for their needs.

Specifications

Storage Capacity: Provides 1TB of storage space, suitable for large files and applications.
Interface: Uses PCIe 3.0 for fast data transfers and improved system responsiveness.
Form Factor: Comes in a compact M.2 2280 form factor, compatible with most modern desktops and laptops.
Sequential Read Speed: Offers a sequential read speed of up to 3,500 MB/s for faster file access.
Sequential Write Speed: Provides sequential write speeds of up to 3,000 MB/s, optimizing performance for heavy tasks.
Thermal Protection: Includes dynamic thermal protection to maintain stable performance and prevent overheating.
Operating Temperature: Operates within a temperature range of 0-70 °C, ensuring reliability under various conditions.
Compatibility: Compatible with PC and Mac systems, but not suitable for PS5.
Weight: Weighs just 0.282 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to install.
Dimensions: Measures 3.15 x 0.87 x 0.09 inches, fitting in standard M.2 slots.
Warranty: Includes a limited warranty, offering protection against defects and issues.
Power Consumption: Low power consumption, making it efficient for both laptops and desktops.
Endurance: Designed for high endurance, supporting heavy read/write cycles over its lifetime.
System Integration: Easily integrates into systems with M.2 2280 NVMe slots, offering straightforward installation.
Build Quality: Built with durable materials to ensure long-term reliability even under heavy use.

FAQ

The Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD offers exceptional read speeds up to 3,500 MB/s, making it ideal for gaming. This high speed translates into quicker load times, reduced lag, and smoother overall gameplay, providing a better experience for gamers who demand performance.

Installing this SSD is simple if your system supports the M.2 2280 form factor. First, power off your device and open the case or back panel. Insert the SSD into the M.2 slot at a 45-degree angle and secure it with a screw. Once installed, format it through your system’s disk management tool.

No, this SSD is not compatible with the PS5. If you're looking to upgrade storage on a PlayStation console, you'll need a model specifically designed for console use, like the PlayStation-approved NVMe SSDs.

Yes, the Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD is compatible with both PC (Windows) and Mac. However, you may need to format the drive in your operating system's native file system (e.g., NTFS for Windows or APFS for macOS).

The Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD offers impressive sequential read speeds of up to 3,500 MB/s and write speeds up to 3,000 MB/s. This makes it significantly faster than traditional SATA SSDs, allowing for quick data transfers and improved overall system performance.

This SSD comes with dynamic thermal protection, which helps manage heat and ensures stable performance even under heavy workloads. While it doesn’t come with a heatsink, its built-in features prevent overheating, providing long-term reliability for most users.

Yes, the Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD is perfect for content creators, including video editors and photographers. Its fast data transfer speeds allow for quick access to large files, improving workflow efficiency when working with 4K video or large raw image files.

After formatting, users can expect around 931 GB of usable storage. This reduction is typical due to the file system overhead required for organizing data on the drive.

The Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD is designed for high-speed performance and reliability. While it's suitable for regular use, including gaming and professional applications, extremely heavy, continuous writes might affect its longevity. For standard use cases, it should perform well over time.

If your system is not detecting the SSD, check that it's properly seated in the M.2 slot. Ensure that your motherboard supports PCIe 3.0 NVMe drives and that the latest drivers are installed. If the issue persists, try connecting it to another compatible system or update your BIOS/firmware.