Analyzing the Top SSDs: Samsung 980 Pro vs. Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus
The SSD market has seen significant shifts, with Samsung's dominance being challenged by newcomers like Sabrent. The comparison between Samsung's 970 Pro, 980 Pro, and Sabrent's Rocket 4, and Rocket 4 Plus provides insight into the current landscape.
Test Setup and Methodology
Our tests were conducted using the same Windows 10 image on an Origin Neuron gaming desktop, featuring a Ryzen 7 5800X CPU, 16GB RAM, and an Asus ROG Crosshair VIII Hero motherboard. This setup ensures a level playing field for all SSDs.
Performance Metrics: Synthetic Tests
We employed the Anvil synthetic test to gauge speed, response time, and IOPS. This comprehensive test generates a final performance score for each SSD, revealing their potential in controlled environments.
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Read and Write Speeds Analysis
Examining standard read and write speeds across various file sizes, we noted the proximity of the 970 Pro to its spec. The Rocket 4 slightly underperforms, while the 980 Pro and Rocket 4 Plus showcase impressive rates, with Sabrent leading marginally.
Response Time Evaluation
The generational improvements in storage controller design become evident when assessing response times. The 970 Pro and Rocket 4 lag behind their successors, with Sabrent's Rocket 4 Plus edging out Samsung's 980 Pro.
Real-World and Gaming Performance
Using CS:GO and movie clips for real-world copy tests, we observed the practical limitations of SSDs in simultaneous read/write scenarios. In encryption tasks, differences in SSD performance were negligible, indicating that some operations don't benefit from faster storage.
Game Loading Tests
Our tests with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 revealed marginal improvements in game launch times across generations, highlighting the limits of SSD impact on certain gaming experiences.
Conclusion: The Best SSD Choice
The battle between Samsung and Sabrent in the SSD arena is closely fought. While Samsung's 980 Pro shows strengths in certain areas, Sabrent's Rocket 4 Plus demonstrates overall superior performance and response times. Choosing the right SSD depends on specific needs and workloads, but both brands offer compelling options for different user requirements.
