I'm choosing storage for a PC that will mainly be used for gaming, 4K video editing, and general work. I can get a 4TB Samsung 990 Pro for $660 or an 8TB WD Black SN850X for $800. I play plenty of AAA games and shooters such as Battlefield and Apex, so capacity matters, but I also want good sustained performance and reliability for video editing. Which drive would you choose?
3 Answers
Before choosing either one, consider splitting the budget between a smaller fast NVMe drive and a cheaper high-capacity SSD or hard drive for archived video. Paying $800 for one SSD is a lot, and active projects can stay on the fast drive while completed footage and less frequently played games go elsewhere. If you do buy the 8TB SN850X, run a capacity and health test immediately while you can still return it.
The 990 Pro is faster on paper, but gaming load times won’t usually differ enough to justify paying $660 for half the capacity. For video editing, having more workspace can matter more than small benchmark differences. I’d take the SN850X if the seller and warranty check out; otherwise, look for a reputable 4TB drive at a much lower price rather than paying a premium for the 990 Pro.
I’d lean toward the SN850X, especially if you need the extra space. An 8TB drive gives you much more room for games and 4K footage, and several people have had a more dependable experience with the WD drive than with the 990 Pro. However, verify that the 8TB listing is legitimate before buying—check the exact model number, seller reputation, warranty, and return policy. A suspiciously cheap or incorrectly labeled drive could be counterfeit or misrepresented.
Double-check the capacity in particular. Make sure it is actually an 8TB NVMe model and not an 8TB hard drive, an external enclosure, or a listing with the wrong product information.
I’ve had multiple 990 Pro drives develop failures or disconnect under sustained transfers, while my SN850X has been stable for well over a year. Others have had no issues with either model, so it may not affect everyone, but I’d still favor the WD here.