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WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD vs WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD 1TB

Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›

all judged against NVMe SSDs at a similar price

The WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD 1TB scores 7.1/10 overall, ahead of the WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD at 7.0/10.

The WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD leads on endurance and efficiency and thermals.

The WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD 1TB leads on performance and software.

They score the same on warranty.

WD_BLACK SN7100 NVMe SSD, 2TB

WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD

7.0/10verdict: buy

The WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB is for buyers who want a PCIe Gen 4x4 M.2 2280 drive with low power draw. It suits desktops and Windows machines where the Dashboard software is usable. Linux and macOS users, and anyone who needs a heatsink variant, should read the limitations first.

Typically about £270 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD, 1TB, without heatsink

WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD 1TB

7.1/10verdict: buy

The SN850X 1TB without a heatsink is for buyers who want a fast PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 drive for a desktop or a PS5. It suits people who already have a motherboard heatsink or good case airflow. It is less suited to anyone who needs Linux or macOS drive tooling or has no cooling for the drive.

Typically about £178.99 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Scores, criterion by criterion

CriterionWeightWD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSDWD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD 1TB
Performance35%7/108/10
Endurance20%8/107/10
Warranty15%9/109/10
Efficiency and thermals15%7/105/10
Software15%4/105/10
Overall7.0/107.1/10

Specifications

SpecWD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSDWD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD 1TB
InterfacePCIe Gen 4x4 NVMePCIe 4.0 x4
Sequential read7,250 MB/s (up to)7,300 MB/s
Sequential write6,900 MB/s (up to)6,300 MB/s
Endurance (2TB)1,200 TBW (2TB)600 TBW
Form factorM.2 2280M.2 2280
Warranty5-year limited (or Max Endurance TBW limit, whichever occurs first)5-Year Limited Warranty

Strengths and weaknesses

WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD

  • + Rated 7,250 MB/s read and 6,900 MB/s write
  • + 1,200 TBW and a five-year warranty
  • + Low measured power draw during transfers
  • − Dashboard software is Windows-only
  • − No heatsink variant listed
  • − Owner complaints about laptop idle power and ASPM

Skip it if:

  • Linux or macOS users who want manufacturer health-monitoring software
  • Buyers who want a drive with a factory-fitted heatsink
  • Laptop owners who prioritise the lowest possible idle power
Read the full WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD review ›

WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD 1TB

  • + Rated 7,300 MB/s read and 6,300 MB/s write
  • + 5-year limited warranty
  • + Owners report easy installation and PS5 compatibility
  • − Owners report it runs hot without a heatsink
  • − WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows only
  • − Owners note a price premium over cheaper drives

Skip it if:

  • Buyers with no heatsink or airflow for the M.2 slot, who may prefer the heatsink version
  • Linux or macOS users who want vendor firmware tooling
  • Budget buyers who would rather pay less for a cheaper drive
Read the full WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD 1TB review ›

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