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My review of the WD_BLACK SN750 500GB NVMe Gaming SSD Gen3 PCIe (2024)
Introduction
I’ve been using the WD_BLACK SN750 500GB NVMe SSD for a while now, mainly for gaming. Below I share some real-world insights on how it holds up in terms of speed, durability, and overall performance.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Storage Capacity | 500 GB | Hard Disk Interface | NVMe |
| Connectivity Technology | SATA | Brand | WD_BLACK |
| Special Feature | Portable | Hard Disk Description | Solid State Hard Drive |
| Compatible Devices | PC, Gaming Console | Installation Type | Internal Hard Drive |
| Color | Black | Hard Disk Size | 500 GB |
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Prices
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Performance and Reliability Over Time
Having used the WD_BLACK SN750 500GB NVMe SSD for gaming over an extended period, I’ve gathered quite a few insights about its performance and reliability. Below is a summary highlighting the key aspects of my experience:
Speed: The drive consistently delivers quick load times and smooth performance, which is essential for gaming.
Durability: After two years, it still functions like new, evidencing its build quality.
Heat Management: The optional heatsink I chose has been effective in keeping temperatures controlled.
Software: The WD SSD Dashboard, especially with its gaming mode, is a handy tool, though setting it up initially was a tad confusing.
Expansion: It’s great for boosting storage without having to delete old games.
On the flip side:
Installation: It can be tricky, and compatibility issues with older motherboards might require a BIOS update.
Price: Initially, the cost was a bit steep, although it has become more reasonable over time.
Regarding performance, the WD_BLACK SN750 has not disappointed. It’s delivered a noticeable boost in boot and loading times for games when compared to my older SATA SSD. This benefit alone has made the tech investment feel worthwhile.
In terms of reliability, I’ve had little to worry about. Despite intense daily use, the drive’s performance hasn’t degraded. The WD brand’s reputation for producing durable storage solutions has been upheld in my experience. However, it’s worth noting that while I have peace of mind from the extended warranty, others might have experienced less luck as no device is immune to failure.
The WD SSD Dashboard has been a valuable companion. The gaming mode is an innovative feature, giving a noticeable edge to performance, but the software could be more intuitive. For those not as tech-savvy, this can present an initial hurdle.
One possible drawback is that the NVMe drive might not be directly compatible with SATA interfaces, requiring careful planning when upgrading. Additionally, be aware of the potential need for BIOS updates on older motherboards, which can be intimidating for some users.
Another critical factor is the cost. The price tag was significant at launch, and while it’s come down over time, this may be a consideration for anyone on a budget.
Overall, the WD_BLACK SN750 has been an excellent long-term companion for my gaming rig. It’s a solid choice for anyone in need of a performance-oriented SSD, where speed and longevity are the priorities. I can recommend it to fellow gamers who want a reliable drive that keeps up with their gaming needs without constantly managing storage space.
Comparative Review with Previous Gen SSDs
In upgrading from my older SATA SSD, the WD_BLACK SN750 NVMe has been quite the game-changer. Here’s the rundown of my thoughts in the pros and cons style that’s become a bit of my go-to method when comparing tech:
Pros:
It’s definitely faster. Going from a Samsung Evo 850 SATA SSD to the SN750 was like trading a bicycle for a motorcycle – the speed jump is not just on paper.
500GB of storage feels like a sweet spot for me. I can have my OS, a bunch of games and still plenty of room for work files without making my wallet cry.
The NVMe interface is not just a future-proof spec; it’s a right-now speed demon. Loading screens now feel like brief pauses rather than coffee breaks.
Cons:
Compatibility issues can be a headache. Not all motherboards play nice with NVMe right out of the box, and it took some BIOS tweaking to get things running.
The full speed of the NVMe is lost on my PCIe 2.0 x2 slot. It feels like putting a sports car on a go-kart track – powerful, but not reaching its full potential.
Switching to the WD_BLACK SN750 was mostly smooth, barring some initial setup challenges. It’s worth mentioning that older motherboards may need a BIOS update to fully support NVMe SSDs. But once you’ve got it up and running, it’s almost like a mini-revival for your PC. Games load noticeably quicker, and overall system responsiveness is notably improved.
However, bear in mind that getting the most out of the SN750 might require additional investments, like a PCIe adapter board, to bypass limitations of dated motherboards. That said, these are one-time costs that extend the life of your existing setup without the need for a full overhaul.
Moreover, there’s something to be said about the solid build quality and reliability here. The included dashboard software is intuitive enough, offering a quick glance at drive health and performance – a little extra peace of mind which I appreciate.
While I can’t say there’s a night and day difference in every single use case when compared to my old SATA drive, the enhancements in data transfer speeds and game load times make the SN750 a worthwhile upgrade. The responsive customer support from Western Digital has also been reassuring, addressing any concerns swiftly.
Despite the initial hurdles with older tech compatibility and not leveraging the full speed potential out of the box, the WD_BLACK SN750 has earned a spot in my rig. It’s robust, reliable, and represents a smart investment especially for gamers looking to minimize bottlenecks and maximize performance.
Installation and Compatibility with Older Motherboards
When it comes to upgrading an older PC with a new NVMe like the WD_BLACK SN750 500GB, the process can be a bit tricky but absolutely rewarding if done correctly. I have an ASUS Z97-AR motherboard, which isn’t the latest and greatest, but with the right BIOS update, it can handle an NVMe SSD. Here’s what I found important during the process:
BIOS Update: First off, make sure your motherboard’s BIOS is up to date. This is crucial because without the latest version, the motherboard might not recognize the NVMe drive. For my ASUS board, a simple BIOS update was all it took to start using my NVMe as a boot drive.
M.2 Slot Speed Limitations: Check if your motherboard’s M.2 slot supports the full speed of PCIe 3.0 x4, which the SN750 utilizes. If it’s an older board like mine, you might be limited to PCIe 2.0 speeds. In my case, the board only supported PCIe 2.0 x2 speeds, which means I couldn’t utilize the SSD’s top speeds—something to keep in mind.
Possible Solution with Trade-offs: Consider getting an add-on card to use the NVMe in a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for full speed. However, this can lead to trade-offs, such as reducing your GPU’s operating bandwidth. Always check the specs on your motherboard to make sure you’re not going to inadvertently bottleneck another component.
Heat Management: Some NVMes like the SN750 come with an optional heatsink. Depending on your setup and airflow, it could be a good investment to maintain drive health over time.
Through my experience, even with the speed limitations due to the older motherboard’s PCIe capabilities, the performance boost was still significant when compared to a SATA SSD. Installation was a breeze, although I did have to change some BIOS settings. It’s worth noting that not having to deal with power and data cables like I did with my previous SATA drives was a neat bonus.
Certainly, the lack of compatibility with SATA interfaces means you need to have a compatible M.2 slot on your motherboard. Older systems might not have this slot at all, so an upgrade could entail a new motherboard, which begins to creep into more significant system overhaul territory.
My takeaway from installing the WD_BLACK SN750 is that, while there are considerations to make and possible limitations with older motherboards, the overall process can extend the life of your current system significantly. The enhanced speed and smoothness in accessing files and loading games have revitalized my older PC, making it feel snappier and more responsive. The quality and reliability of the WD_BLACK brand, coupled with the noticeable performance upgrade, makes the SN750 a solid investment even for those not running the latest hardware.
Value and Future-Proofing for Gaming Rigs
As a gamer who’s seen the evolution of storage solutions, the durability and scalability of the WD_BLACK SN750 500GB NVMe SSD are impressive. It’s a drive that’s offered consistent performance and a slice of the future for those looking to edge past the competition.
Here’s a rundown of my key considerations:
Future-Proofing: with technologies rapidly advancing, getting a drive that can keep up is crucial. The SN750 isn’t the newest kid on the block but its PCIe Gen3 technology is still incredibly relevant, potentially serving well through multiple PC upgrades.
Capacity Options: The beauty of WD_BLACK is the variety - with options from 250GB all the way to 4TB, I can choose what fits my gaming library and budget.
Gaming Mode: The dashboard utility with a gaming mode distinguishes this SSD, providing that extra umph in performance when needed.
Yet, no product is without its drawbacks. The lack of a heatsink in some models concerns me, especially as SSDs can throttle under heat. But, the option to purchase a model with a heatsink – albeit at a higher price – provides a solution.
My personal experience with the SN750 has been largely positive. This drive has been a workhorse, swiftly loading games and handling patches without a hiccup. The speed is an undeniable upgrade from a SATA SSD, making everything feel snappier. I recall installing it with ease, despite initial worries; it seamlessly integrated into my setup meant for longevity.
However, I must acknowledge that with PCIe Gen4 and even Gen5 drives now hitting the market, the SN750 might not be the top-tier in raw speed anymore. But considering the value for money and the performance it offers, I believe this drive is a wise investment for most gamers who want reliability and a boost in performance without breaking the bank. It’s a middle-ground between cutting edge and cost-effectiveness.
Price point is always a crucial factor, and when I snagged the SN750, it was a deal I couldn’t pass up. I recommend keeping an eye out for sales, as grabbing this SSD at a lower price sweetens the pot considerably.
In conclusion, my long-term use reaffirms the SN750 as a companion for your gaming rig that combines value, performance, and enough forward-thinking features to weather the rapid technology cycle. Sure, it might not have the bragging rights of the latest Gen4 drives, but it’s proven its merit where it counts – in day-to-day gaming and usage scenarios.