Transcend 500GB M.2 2280 SSD

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86%
92%
Performance (Read/Write Speeds)
89%
Ease of Installation
91%
Reliability
86%
Battery Life Impact (Low Power Consumption)
82%
Software Experience (Transcend SSD Scope)
88%
Value for Money
83%
Thermal Management
90%
Device Compatibility (Laptops, Desktops, Ultrabooks)
87%
Build Quality
75%
Customer Support
80%
Long-term Value
89%
Gaming Performance
More

Overview

The Transcend 500GB M.2 2280 SSD is a compact and efficient solid-state drive designed for those seeking faster data storage and transfer speeds. Offering a sleek M.2 2280 form factor, this SSD leverages the PCIe Gen 3x4 interface to ensure smooth performance with read speeds up to 3,200MB/s and write speeds of 2,000MB/s. Ideal for users looking to upgrade their ultrabook, laptop, or desktop, this solid state drive provides an excellent balance of performance and reliability. Whether you're using it for everyday computing tasks or intensive applications, this drive offers an effective solution for those seeking high-speed storage.

Features & Benefits

This SSD boasts impressive performance, with read speeds reaching up to 3,200MB/s and write speeds up to 2,000MB/s. The low power consumption design is particularly advantageous for laptop users, as it enhances battery life without sacrificing speed. The LDPC error correction ensures that data is securely stored, reducing the risk of corruption. Additionally, the Transcend SSD Scope software allows users to monitor the health and optimize the performance of the drive. With these features combined, this drive offers robust performance and reliability for a variety of computing needs.

Best For

The Transcend 500GB M.2 2280 SSD is best suited for users looking to upgrade their system with a fast, reliable, and affordable storage solution. It’s perfect for gamers, content creators, and professionals who require quick data access, whether for media files, gaming, or software. With its high read and write speeds, this SSD is also an excellent choice for those who need to improve system responsiveness and load times on laptops, desktops, and ultrabooks. Whether you're replacing an older drive or building a new system, this product offers a great balance of speed and value.

User Feedback

User reviews consistently praise the noticeable speed improvement this SSD offers over traditional hard drives, particularly when upgrading from older storage solutions. Many users find the drive’s performance excellent for both everyday use and demanding tasks like gaming or video editing. Installation is straightforward, with users appreciating how easily it integrates into a variety of devices. However, a few users have mentioned that while the speed is impressive, the price point may be slightly higher than some other options in its category. Overall, this drive is well-regarded for its reliability and efficiency.

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Pros

  • This SSD delivers fast read speeds of up to 3,200MB/s and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s, significantly improving performance.
  • Its low power consumption design is ideal for users looking to extend battery life in ultrabooks and laptops.
  • The installation process is straightforward, with many users noting an easy setup on both desktops and laptops.
  • LDPC error correction ensures data stability, which is crucial for protecting important files during heavy usage.
  • With PCIe Gen 3x4 support, it provides a solid upgrade option for users seeking efficient and reliable storage.
  • The included Transcend SSD Scope software helps users monitor and optimize drive performance, which adds valuable utility.

Cons

  • Some users report that the drive can experience thermal throttling during heavy, sustained workloads.
  • While fast, this SSD may not be as high-performance as some premium models designed for extreme tasks like 4K video editing.
  • Older systems or certain laptop models may not support PCIe Gen 3x4, limiting compatibility for some users.
  • The 500GB storage capacity might feel limiting for users with larger storage needs, especially for media-heavy tasks.
  • A few users have expressed concerns over the drive’s longevity when used for intensive, constant read/write operations.
  • Not all users have experienced noticeable speed improvements, particularly when upgrading from already decent SSDs.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, RR-AI provides the following ratings for the Transcend 500GB M.2 2280 SSD. Only high-quality, authentic feedback was considered, filtering out spam, duplicates, and exaggerated claims. Both strengths and areas for improvement have been reflected in these scores, based on user experiences across different regions and use cases.

Performance (Read/Write Speeds)
92%
Users report excellent performance, with high read speeds of up to 3,200MB/s and write speeds reaching 2,000MB/s. Many highlight the noticeable improvement in data transfer, making it ideal for tasks like gaming or media editing. This solid state drive delivers fast performance, significantly enhancing overall system responsiveness.
A few users experienced slightly lower speeds than expected, especially in certain environments with high thermal loads. While the performance is generally impressive, some report that other SSDs may offer even faster speeds in specific use cases like heavy workloads or extreme gaming setups.
Ease of Installation
89%
Many buyers find the installation process straightforward, even for those with limited technical experience. The M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe Gen 3x4 interface make it compatible with a wide range of laptops, desktops, and ultrabooks. Most users appreciate how quickly they could upgrade their devices.
Some users mention encountering installation issues related to compatibility with older systems or certain laptop models. Though generally easy to install, there were isolated reports of the need for extra steps when dealing with older hardware or software configurations.
Reliability
91%
Buyers emphasize the reliability of this SSD for both everyday use and demanding tasks. The inclusion of LDPC error correction enhances data stability, ensuring a secure storage experience. Many long-term users report consistent performance even under extended usage periods.
While generally dependable, some users did experience occasional issues related to early wear or data corruption. These reports are rare, but they indicate that not every unit may be equally robust, especially in more intensive use cases over time.
Battery Life Impact (Low Power Consumption)
86%
The low power design is especially appreciated by laptop users, as it contributes to extended battery life. This feature helps users maintain efficiency during travel or long work sessions, where charging opportunities are limited. The SSD provides good balance between performance and energy conservation.
A few users noted that while the low power consumption is a plus for everyday tasks, it doesn't always provide the performance boost they hoped for in power-hungry applications. Some felt that other SSDs might strike a better balance between power and high-end performance.
Software Experience (Transcend SSD Scope)
82%
18%
The Transcend SSD Scope software allows for easy monitoring and optimization of the drive. Many users appreciate the additional functionality, such as firmware updates and health status checks, which enhance the drive’s longevity and performance. It's a useful tool for users who want to ensure their SSD is performing at its best.
Some users reported that the software interface could be more intuitive. There were occasional issues with software compatibility on certain systems, and some users found the features to be more advanced than necessary for basic SSD usage.
Value for Money
88%
At its price point, this solid state drive offers excellent value for those looking for reliable storage and good performance. Users are impressed by the combination of speed, reliability, and ease of installation. Many feel it’s a great investment for upgrading laptops or desktops without breaking the bank.
A small number of buyers feel that the SSD's performance could justify a slightly lower price. Some customers believe they could find similar speeds in other drives at a comparable or lower price, especially during sales or promotions.
Thermal Management
83%
Most users find the thermal management system of this drive sufficient, with dynamic thermal throttling effectively preventing overheating during regular use. The drive remains cool under light to moderate workloads, maintaining a stable and safe operating temperature.
In high-demand scenarios, some users have noticed thermal throttling more frequently, which could affect performance in longer or more intensive tasks. While generally effective, thermal management may not be as robust as seen in premium-tier SSDs.
Device Compatibility (Laptops, Desktops, Ultrabooks)
90%
This drive is highly compatible with a wide variety of devices, making it an excellent option for upgrading laptops, desktops, and ultrabooks. Users appreciate its seamless integration with both newer and older systems, which simplifies installation for a broader audience.
There were a few reports of compatibility issues with specific laptop models, especially older or less common devices. While rare, these users encountered difficulties in getting the drive to work properly without additional adapters or system updates.
Build Quality
87%
The build quality of this SSD is solid, with most users reporting durability and stability over long-term usage. The device is designed to withstand everyday handling, and there are few complaints about physical flaws or defects.
A few users have reported minor concerns with the construction, particularly when handling the drive during installation. While these issues are not widespread, some found the drive’s materials and build to be less premium compared to higher-end models.
Customer Support
75%
25%
Transcend’s customer support team is helpful and responsive to users, providing solutions for installation issues and other technical inquiries. Many customers appreciate the support team’s timely responses and willingness to assist with problems related to the SSD.
Some users have reported delays in receiving support or issues with resolving problems efficiently. There are occasional concerns about the level of expertise in solving more complex issues, which may lead to longer wait times or repeated contacts.
Long-term Value
80%
20%
Over time, this SSD remains a solid performer, maintaining its speed and reliability even as it ages. Users report that it continues to perform well with minimal signs of degradation, offering a good long-term storage solution for everyday computing.
A few long-term users have pointed out that the drive’s performance does degrade slightly with heavy use. While not a common problem, some feel that other drives may provide more consistent long-term performance, especially in more demanding environments.
Gaming Performance
89%
For gaming enthusiasts, this drive delivers impressive speed, reducing load times and improving game performance. Many users find it works well with larger game files, offering smooth gameplay without noticeable lag. It’s an affordable option for gamers looking to upgrade their storage without compromising on speed.
A few users note that while this SSD improves loading times, it doesn’t quite match the performance of higher-end drives in certain gaming scenarios, especially in 4K textures or intensive AAA games. For casual gaming, however, it is more than sufficient.

Suitable for:

The Transcend 500GB M.2 2280 SSD is an excellent choice for users looking to upgrade their laptops, desktops, or ultrabooks. Its fast read and write speeds of up to 3,200MB/s and 2,000MB/s, respectively, make it ideal for professionals, tech enthusiasts, and gamers who require quick and reliable storage. Additionally, its low power consumption is beneficial for users who rely on portable devices, such as students or business travelers, needing longer battery life without compromising performance. The drive's compatibility with various devices and its solid reliability for both everyday use and heavy tasks make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced, cost-effective solution for performance upgrades.

Not suitable for:

However, the Transcend 500GB M.2 2280 SSD may not be the best fit for users who demand top-tier performance in high-end gaming or extreme computing environments. While it offers excellent general performance, some users reported thermal throttling during intense tasks, and it doesn't quite match the speeds of more premium drives in specialized applications like 4K video editing or large-scale data processing. Additionally, users with older systems or less common laptop models may face compatibility challenges, especially if their hardware doesn't support PCIe Gen 3x4. In these cases, a more tailored or higher-end solution might be required for optimal performance.

Specifications

  • Storage Capacity: 500GB of storage space for fast data access and storage.
  • Form Factor: M.2 2280 form factor, compatible with devices that support M.2 slots.
  • Interface: PCIe Gen 3x4 interface for high-speed data transfer and efficiency.
  • Read Speed: Maximum read speed of up to 3,200MB/s for fast data retrieval.
  • Write Speed: Maximum write speed of up to 2,000MB/s for quick file saving and transfer.
  • NAND Type: 3D TLC NAND flash technology for a balance of performance, endurance, and cost.
  • Error Correction: LDPC (Low-Density Parity Check) error correction for enhanced data integrity.
  • Software: Comes with Transcend’s SSD Scope software for monitoring and optimization.
  • Power Consumption: Low power design to help conserve battery life in portable devices.
  • Thermal Management: Dynamic thermal throttling to manage heat and maintain optimal performance.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with laptops, desktops, and ultrabooks that support M.2 PCIe interfaces.
  • Dimensions: M.2 2280 size, measuring 22mm x 80mm.
  • Operating Temperature: Operates in a temperature range of 0°C to 70°C for stable performance.
  • Shock Resistance: Shock-resistant to up to 1,500G for added durability.
  • Endurance: Rated for up to 160TBW (Terabytes Written), ensuring longevity for regular users.
  • First Available: Released on May 23, 2023, as a reliable upgrade option.
  • Encryption Support: Supports AES 256-bit encryption to secure your sensitive data.
  • Warranty: Backed by a 5-year limited warranty for peace of mind.

FAQ

The Transcend 500GB M.2 2280 SSD offers impressive read speeds of up to 3,200MB/s and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s, making it a fast and efficient choice for most users.

Installation is simple. First, ensure your device has an M.2 slot compatible with the 2280 form factor. Then, insert the SSD into the slot and secure it. You may need to initialize the drive through your operating system's disk management tool.

Yes, this SSD is compatible with most ultrabooks, laptops, and desktops that support M.2 2280 slots and PCIe Gen 3x4 interfaces. However, it’s always recommended to check your device's specifications for compatibility.

This solid state drive is designed with low power consumption in mind, which helps improve battery life in laptops and ultrabooks. It operates efficiently, especially during light or medium workloads.

Yes, this SSD is well-suited for gaming and media editing, as it provides fast data transfer speeds that are ideal for handling large game files or media assets. Its read/write speeds ensure smooth performance in these tasks.

Yes, it comes with Transcend’s SSD Scope software, which allows users to monitor the drive’s health, optimize performance, and securely erase data. This is especially useful for managing the SSD’s longevity.

Many users have reported that this SSD handles both everyday use and heavy workloads well. Its LDPC error correction technology ensures data integrity and stability, even during high-demand tasks.

If your device doesn't support PCIe Gen 3x4, the SSD will still work but at a reduced speed. It will operate in a lower PCIe mode, which may impact performance, but it should still offer noticeable speed improvements over traditional hard drives.

While this SSD is reliable for most users, some may find it less durable in extreme, constant read/write environments, such as intensive 24/7 server use. It's better suited for standard consumer use rather than professional-grade workloads requiring maximum durability.

If your desktop PC supports M.2 2280 slots, it should fit without issue. Make sure that your motherboard supports PCIe Gen 3x4, as this will allow the SSD to perform at its maximum speed.