I'm currently using an M.2 SSD as my primary system drive and need a good SATA SSD for additional storage. The SSD is crucial because I work with Superior Drummer libraries, which are quite large and need to load quickly. I initially bought an Adata SU650 Ultimate, and while it performed well at first, I'm now facing major slowdowns. For instance, a library that used to load in under five seconds now takes several minutes. Even after fully wiping the drive (I know it's not ideal), the speed doesn't stay consistent and drops again over time. I'm looking to replace this SSD but want to ensure I choose a reliable model to avoid the same issues. Any recommendations?
3 Answers
Have you tried checking for a firmware update for your SU650? Sometimes, that can really help with performance issues.
If you can find it, the Crucial MX500 is a great option for a SATA SSD. Just a heads up though, it might be hard to track down since it has been discontinued in some places.
I couldn't find the MX500 anywhere, unfortunately. Seems to be out of stock.
The SU650 uses QLC flash memory, which is less durable and often leads to slower speeds over time. It's worth looking into options like the Transcend SSD230S or the Samsung 870 EVO. Both are solid choices. If you have a free PCIe slot, you could also consider getting an M.2/PCIe adapter and go for one of the newer NVMe drives—they're often faster and more reliable.
I found the Transcend SSD230S for €89.48 and the Samsung 870 EVO for €96.63. Which one do you think is better?
I’m also checking out M.2 PCIe options. Is the Samsung 990 Pro a good pick? I noticed it’s just about 10 euros more than the 870 EVO.
I actually used the ADATA SSD Toolbox but didn’t find any firmware updates available.