Transcend MSA230S 128GB mSATA SSD

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86%
91%
Performance (Read/Write Speed)
89%
Reliability and Durability
92%
Value for Money
85%
Compatibility with Devices
90%
Installation Ease
88%
Power Efficiency (Low Power Consumption)
87%
System Responsiveness (DRAM Cache)
86%
Error Handling (LDPC Error Correction)
82%
Long-Term Value (Endurance)
80%
Noise (During Operation)
84%
Design and Build Quality
83%
Warranty and Support
More

Overview

The Transcend MSA230S 128GB mSATA SSD is a compact and efficient storage solution, offering reliable performance for users in need of faster data access. This mSATA drive supports the SATA III 6Gb/s interface, delivering high-speed read and write speeds. With its small form factor, it’s designed for use in ultrabooks, desktops, and tablets, offering an easy upgrade path for those looking to boost system performance. Whether for boosting boot times or enhancing data access, this solid state drive serves as a dependable and cost-effective choice for users looking to improve their device’s overall responsiveness.

Features & Benefits

This Transcend SSD stands out with its impressive sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds reaching 400MB/s. The use of 3D NAND flash memory enhances both durability and reliability, ensuring data integrity over time. Another key feature is the inclusion of a DDR3 DRAM cache, which significantly speeds up data access and boosts overall system responsiveness. Coupled with LDPC error correction, this drive promises a long lifespan and reduces the risk of data corruption, making it a great option for users who prioritize both speed and reliability.

Best For

The 128GB mSATA SSD is ideal for ultrabooks and laptops that require fast internal storage. Its compact size and low power consumption make it perfect for portable devices, where space and efficiency are key. It’s also a great option for desktops and servers in need of a high-performance, space-saving storage solution. Users who require solid performance for day-to-day tasks like web browsing, file management, and light gaming will benefit most from this drive, especially those who prioritize reliability and long-term use in their storage solutions.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the fast boot times and overall responsiveness of this solid state drive, making it a solid upgrade for older laptops and desktops. Its low power consumption is frequently praised, particularly for users with portable setups where battery life matters. However, some users have reported occasional compatibility issues with older systems, which may require specific drivers or BIOS updates. Overall, the drive is regarded as a dependable and affordable option for those looking to enhance their system’s performance without breaking the bank.

#Internal Solid State Drives
#Data Storage
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Pros

  • This SSD offers fast read speeds up to 550MB/s, improving overall system performance.
  • The low power consumption is ideal for portable devices, extending battery life.
  • Its 3D NAND flash enhances durability, ensuring long-term reliability for daily use.
  • Perfect for upgrading ultrabooks or laptops, providing a compact and efficient storage solution.
  • The DDR3 DRAM cache contributes to faster data access and smoother system operation.
  • Its small form factor and lightweight design make it a good fit for space-constrained devices.

Cons

  • Some users report compatibility issues with older systems that don’t support mSATA.
  • While the drive performs well for everyday tasks, it may not meet the needs of power users handling large data.
  • The 128GB capacity may feel limited for users needing extensive storage for large files.
  • Installation may require extra effort or adapters for some non-standard configurations.
  • A few users mentioned occasional write speed slowdowns during heavy tasks or extended use.
  • It might not be the best choice for those looking for higher endurance in extreme usage scenarios.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, we've gathered the scores for the Transcend MSA230S 128GB mSATA SSD. Authentic feedback from a diverse range of sources, with spam, bot, and incentivized reviews filtered out, has been used to inform the results. Both strengths and potential pain points are reflected in these ratings, providing a comprehensive view of how this solid-state drive performs in real-world use.

Performance (Read/Write Speed)
91%
Many users are impressed by the fast read speeds of up to 550MB/s and write speeds of 400MB/s. This makes the drive an excellent choice for boosting system responsiveness and data transfer speeds, especially when upgrading from older storage solutions.
However, some users feel that while the speeds are decent for everyday tasks, they fall short for more demanding applications like large-scale video editing or heavy gaming, where faster drives may be required.
Reliability and Durability
89%
The 3D NAND flash memory and LDPC error correction contribute to the drive's solid durability and reliable performance over time. Many buyers have reported consistent functionality without significant degradation, making it a good long-term investment.
A few customers mentioned that while the drive is generally reliable, there have been occasional issues with early wear under intensive use, particularly with tasks requiring constant high-speed data access.
Value for Money
92%
Most users feel that this drive offers excellent value for its price, especially considering its solid performance and reliability. It's an affordable option for those looking to upgrade or expand storage without breaking the bank.
Some users feel that although it's a great budget option, the price point could still be slightly lower given the competition in the market. Others also noted that larger capacity drives offer better value per gigabyte in comparison.
Compatibility with Devices
85%
Users appreciate the broad compatibility with ultrabooks, desktops, and tablets. The mSATA interface ensures it's versatile for different systems, making it a great option for older devices that need an affordable performance boost.
However, a few users reported issues with compatibility in older or more niche systems, where the mSATA form factor may not be supported, requiring additional adapters or adjustments for installation.
Installation Ease
90%
Installation is simple and straightforward for most users, especially with the clear instructions. The mSATA form factor fits well in compatible ultrabooks or desktop setups, making the upgrade process smooth and quick for users.
Some users found the installation a bit tricky when integrating into older systems that didn’t have native mSATA slots. Additionally, a few mentioned that drivers for certain devices needed to be manually updated for optimal compatibility.
Power Efficiency (Low Power Consumption)
88%
A key feature that many users appreciate is the low power consumption, making it ideal for portable devices like ultrabooks and tablets. This helps extend battery life, which is a major plus for users who need longer usage between charges.
However, some users noted that while the power consumption is low, it doesn’t always translate to noticeable battery savings during extended high-demand tasks, such as gaming or heavy multimedia use.
System Responsiveness (DRAM Cache)
87%
The inclusion of DDR3 DRAM cache improves system responsiveness and speeds up data access. Users report noticeable improvements in boot times and system performance when switching to this SSD from traditional hard drives.
That said, a few users feel that the DRAM cache doesn’t offer a massive leap in performance compared to other SSDs in the same range, particularly for those who don’t frequently run memory-intensive tasks.
Error Handling (LDPC Error Correction)
86%
The LDPC error correction ensures that data integrity is maintained, even with prolonged use. Many users appreciate the peace of mind knowing that their data is protected from bit errors, contributing to the overall reliability of the drive.
Some users have questioned whether LDPC error correction makes a significant difference for everyday use. While it's an important feature, it may not always be noticeable unless you're working with sensitive or mission-critical data.
Long-Term Value (Endurance)
82%
18%
With an endurance rating of 70TBW, the drive offers a solid lifespan for moderate usage. Users who need a reliable drive for general use report that it performs well over time without noticeable degradation.
However, for users who plan on using the drive for high-volume, data-heavy tasks, some have expressed concerns that the endurance might not be sufficient for long-term heavy usage, particularly in write-heavy scenarios.
Noise (During Operation)
80%
20%
Many users find the drive to be virtually silent during operation, which is a major plus for those who are sensitive to noise or need a quiet environment for work or entertainment.
That said, a small number of users reported that while the drive is quiet under normal conditions, there is a slight noise when the drive is under heavy load or writes are in progress, which can be distracting in extremely quiet spaces.
Design and Build Quality
84%
The compact 2.5-inch form factor and lightweight design make the drive easy to integrate into most systems. The build quality feels robust, and users report that it withstands regular handling well without showing signs of wear.
Some buyers noted that while the build quality is decent, the plastic casing feels a bit less premium compared to other high-end SSDs. A few users mentioned concerns about potential long-term wear on the connectors.
Warranty and Support
83%
The 3-year limited warranty adds confidence for buyers, with many users reporting positive experiences when seeking customer support for troubleshooting. The warranty is considered adequate for the price point of the drive.
A few customers had mixed experiences with customer support, citing delays in response time or difficulty reaching a helpful representative. Some also felt that the warranty coverage could be more extensive for peace of mind.

Suitable for:

The Transcend MSA230S 128GB mSATA SSD is an excellent choice for users seeking a reliable and affordable storage upgrade. It's especially well-suited for ultrabooks, laptops, and tablets where space is limited but fast data access is crucial. Students or professionals on a budget will appreciate the balance of performance and cost. Additionally, those upgrading older systems that support mSATA will find this drive to be an easy and efficient way to boost speed without a full system overhaul. With its low power consumption, it’s ideal for users who need longer battery life during on-the-go tasks.

Not suitable for:

However, this solid state drive may not be the best option for users with high-performance needs, such as gamers or content creators working with large files. While the drive provides solid read/write speeds, users who require faster data transfer rates for intensive tasks might find it lacking compared to more premium SSDs. Additionally, some older systems may not support the mSATA form factor, which could require additional adapters or lead to compatibility issues. Those looking for a higher endurance or larger capacity drive may also want to explore other options to suit their long-term storage demands.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 128GB of storage space, providing ample room for everyday computing tasks and applications.
  • Interface: Supports the mSATA III 6Gb/s interface for fast data transfer speeds and efficient performance.
  • Read Speed: Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s for fast data retrieval and improved system responsiveness.
  • Write Speed: Sequential write speeds of up to 400MB/s for quick file storage and retrieval.
  • Flash Type: Utilizes 3D NAND flash memory, enhancing durability and providing a reliable storage solution.
  • DRAM Cache: Equipped with DDR3 DRAM cache for faster data access and improved overall system performance.
  • Error Correction: LDPC (Low-Density Parity Check) error correction ensures data integrity and long-term reliability.
  • Operating Voltage: Operates at a voltage of 3.3V±5%, compatible with most ultrabooks and compact systems.
  • Form Factor: 2.5-inch form factor, a standard size for SSDs in ultrabooks, laptops, and desktops.
  • Weight: Weighs just 0.212 oz (6 g), making it lightweight and easy to integrate into compact devices.
  • Dimensions: Measures 50.8 mm x 29.85 mm x 4.85 mm, designed for mSATA slots in ultrabooks and tablets.
  • Endurance: Rated for 70TBW (Terabytes Written), ensuring durability even with frequent write operations.
  • MTBF: Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) is 2,000,000 hours, indicating high reliability over time.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with devices featuring an mSATA slot, including ultrabooks, laptops, desktops, and tablets.
  • Warranty: Backed by a 3-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for the device’s longevity.
  • Power Consumption: Low power consumption, ideal for portable devices where battery life is a concern.
  • Security Features: Includes built-in security features to safeguard against data corruption and ensure safe operation.

FAQ

The Transcend MSA230S 128GB mSATA SSD is primarily used for upgrading or adding storage to ultrabooks, laptops, desktops, and tablets. It offers fast data transfer speeds and reliable performance, making it ideal for users needing quick storage solutions in compact devices.

To install the 128GB mSATA SSD, first ensure your device has an mSATA slot. Power down your device, remove the cover, and carefully insert the drive into the mSATA slot. Once installed, power up your device and format the drive before use. Refer to your device’s manual for specific installation instructions.

This SSD offers impressive sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 400MB/s. These speeds provide fast data access and efficient performance, especially for users who require quick boot times and responsive system operations.

While this SSD supports the mSATA III 6Gb/s interface, it's important to ensure your device has an mSATA slot for compatibility. It works well with most ultrabooks, desktops, and tablets, but older systems may not support mSATA or might need an adapter for installation.

The Transcend MSA230S 128GB mSATA SSD features 3D NAND flash memory, which increases durability and ensures reliable performance over time. It has a lifespan rated at 70TBW (Terabytes Written), meaning it should last for years under typical usage, with a mean time between failures of 2 million hours.

While this SSD offers good read and write speeds, it may not be the best choice for high-end gaming or intensive video editing tasks where larger storage capacities and faster write speeds are crucial. However, it will work well for everyday tasks, including lighter gaming and multimedia work.

Yes, this solid state drive includes LDPC (Low-Density Parity Check) error correction, which helps maintain data integrity and ensures long-term reliability. This feature minimizes the risk of data corruption and improves the lifespan of the drive.

The Transcend MSA230S 128GB mSATA SSD operates at a voltage of 3.3V±5%. This standard voltage is suitable for most ultrabooks, laptops, and desktops that support mSATA drives.

The low power consumption of this SSD makes it an excellent choice for portable devices like ultrabooks and tablets. Users appreciate that it helps extend battery life, making it ideal for those who need efficient performance without compromising on power efficiency.

Some users have reported occasional compatibility issues with older systems that do not support mSATA or require specific firmware updates. It's recommended to check your device’s compatibility with mSATA drives or consult the manufacturer for any firmware updates that might be necessary.