In the ever-evolving world of computer hardware, motherboards are consistently promoting the latest advancements in processor and memory support. However, the transition from PCIe 4.0 to PCIe 5.0 for M.2 solid-state drives (SSDs) has been a more cautious journey. While storage technology is always advancing, the need to leap ahead has not felt pressing, especially considering how fast PCIe 4.0 drives already are. Nevertheless, SanDisk, a subsidiary of Western Digital, is now pushing the boundaries with its WD_BLACK SN8100 NVMe SSD, boasting read speeds of up to 14,900 MB/s. This raises the question: is it time to upgrade from the well-regarded Samsung 990 PRO, which operates at PCIe 4.0 speeds? I tested a 2TB unit of the WD_BLACK SN8100 to find out.
The WD_BLACK SN8100 is a PCIe 5.0 NVMe M.2-2280 solid-state drive designed primarily for PC gamers and content creators. It is available in multiple capacities: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, with 8TB models expected to be released in 2025. The pricing starts at $179.99 for the 1TB variant without a heatsink, while the 2TB and 4TB models are priced at $279.99 and $549.99, respectively. The heatsink version carries a slight premium, with costs at $199.99 for 1TB, $299.99 for 2TB, and $569.99 for 4TB.
During testing, the 2TB WD_BLACK SN8100 achieved an impressive read speed of 14,472 MB/s. This performance not only exceeds the advertised maximum but also showcases a significant upgrade compared to the Samsung 990 PRO, which maxed out at 7,467 MB/s. When assessing the performance per dollar, the WD_BLACK SN8100 offers around 50 MB/s per dollar, while the Samsung 990 PRO provides only about 43 MB/s per dollar when on sale. The leap in read speeds is substantial, making it an enticing option for high-performance gaming and content creation.
Despite its impressive performance, the WD_BLACK SN8100 does come with some downsides. The nature of PCIe 5.0 technology means that these drives can run hot. While the 2TB model operates at temperatures only slightly higher than the Samsung 990 PRO during regular use, stress testing revealed maximum temperatures reaching 99°C. This necessitates the use of a heatsink, especially if you want to maintain optimal performance and longevity. While the drive does come with a heatsink option, it's crucial to ensure proper cooling to avoid overheating issues.
Consider purchasing the WD_BLACK SN8100 if you:
Are a content creator dealing with high-resolution 4K+ video footage, where faster read/write speeds can significantly improve workflow.Want to future-proof your setup with the latest PCIe 5.0 technology for maximum performance.However, you might want to hold off if:
You lack a heatsink or the space to accommodate one, as effective cooling is essential for maintaining the drive's performance.You do not require the absolute fastest speeds for your computing tasks, making the upgrade less necessary.While I was initially skeptical about the necessity of a PCIe 5.0 SSD, the advancements in speed and performance offered by the WD_BLACK SN8100 are compelling. Priced at $279.99 for 2TB, it delivers considerable value for users who can leverage its capabilities. Ultimately, if your work involves handling large files or if you're building a cutting-edge rig, the WD_BLACK SN8100 is a worthy investment. Just ensure you have adequate cooling solutions in place to make the most out of this high-performance SSD.
