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When buying a Samsung SSD, the first thing to consider is the type—are you looking for the budget-friendly QVO? Or will you choose top-notch performance with PRO? Maybe something in between, like EVO, will suit your needs.
Samsung QVO vs. EVO vs. PRO: Explaining the Differences
Samsung provides three SSD lines: PRO, EVO, and QVO. All three utilize NAND flash memory for data storage but differ in performance, endurance, and price. Because of this, you must understand the differences between each line to decidewhich SSD to buy.
However, these are far from the only differences between Samsung’s SSD lines.
Lifespan and Memory
Like other electronic devices,SSDs have a limited lifespan. However, due to their lack of moving parts, they generally outlast HDDs. SSD longevity is measured in terabytes written (TBW) rather than hours of use. This means the more data you write to an SSD, the shorter its lifespan.
Samsung PRO
Samsung EVO
Samsung QVO
4TB Disk Size
2TB Disk Size
1TB Disk Size
Among the three Samsung SSD series, the PRO has the longest lifespan. EVO comes in second, and QVO has the shortest lifespan. This difference in longevity is due to the type of NAND flash memory used in each series. So,what exactly is NAND flash memory?
NAND memory is a type of non-volatile storage; it retains data even when the power supply is turned off. This quality makes NAND flash an ideal choice for long-term storage. It’s typically used in SSDs, USB drives, and other portable devices.
NAND flash memory comes in four main types, with different storage capacities and longevity.
NAND Flash
MLC V-NAND (2 bits per cell)
TLC V-NAND (3 bits per cell)
QLC V-NAND (4 bits per cell)
DRAM Cache
512MB, 1GB, 2GB, 4GB LPDDR4
1GB, 2GB, 4GB LPDDR4
It’s also worth noting thatSamsung’s ultra-fast LPDDR5Xis likely to feature in these SSDs in the future.
Speed and Performance
SSD speed and performance are essential aspects to consider when choosing a solid-state drive. These drives are known for their lightning-fast read and write speeds, but they are not all the same.
The PRO model uses Multi-Level Cell (MLC) technology andprovides high performanceand reliability. It stores two bits of data—00, 01, 10, or 11—which makes the NAND flash memory more efficient. According to reports, the PRO model reads up to 560MBps and writes up to 550MBps.
Compared to the PRO model, the EVO uses Triple Level Cell (TLC) technology and is slightly slower. It stores three bits of data—000, 001, 010, 011, 100, 101, 110, or 111—and can read/write up to 550MBps and 520MBps, respectively.
The QVO model, which uses Quad-Level Cell (QLC) technology, is the slowest of the three. It stores four bits of data, which leads to longer write times. On paper, it may have the same read and write speeds as the EVO model, but it isn’t impressive in real-world use.
When SSDs store more data, they need higher threshold voltages to identify voltage signals, which reduces read and write speeds.
Sequential Read Speed
Sequential Write Speed
Random Read Speed (4KB, QD32)
Up to 100k IOPS
Up to 98k IOPS
Up to 96k IOPS
Random Write Speed (4KB, QD32)
Up to 90k IOPS
Up to 89k IOPS
Random Read Speed (4KB, QD1)
Up to 11k IOPS
Up to 10K IOPS
Up to 7.5K IOPS
Random Write Speed (4KB, QD1)
Up to 43k IOPS
Up to 42K IOPS
Form Factor and Interface
The form factor and interface you select for your Samsung SSD should align with your specific needs and preferences. The PRO series, available in a 2.5-inch SATA III form factor, is compatible with most desktops and laptops. It uses a SATA 6 Gb/s interface, which also supports older interfaces such as SATA 3 Gb/s and SATA 1.5 Gb/s.
EVO, on the other hand, is more flexible with its additional support for M.2 and mSATA interfaces. This makes it an ideal choice for Ultrabooks and other slim devices. Like the PRO series, it also uses a SATA 6 Gb/s interface compatible with older models. The QVO series, similar to the PRO, comes in the 2.5-inch SATA III form factor and uses a SATA 6 Gb/s interface.
Form Factor
2.5-inch SATA III
2.5-inch SATA III, or M.2 and mSATA for Ultrabook
SATA 6 Gb/s
Storage Size and Prices
PRO is the clearer winner for those looking for the fastest SSD speeds. However, if you need more storage without a hefty price tag, the QVO series is an excellent choice. With capacities of up to 8TB, it offers the largest storage option in Samsung’s SSD lineup.
4TB, 2TB, 1TB, 512GB, 256GB
[2.5-inch] 4TB, 2TB, 1TB, 500GB, 250GB [M.2] 2TB, 1TB, 500GB, 250GB [mSATA] 1TB, 500GB, 250GB
8TB, 4TB, 2TB, 1TB
The cost of each Samsung SSD varies by size and type. You’ll pay more for a top-tier4TB 990 Samsung PROthan a older, mid-tier1TB 870 Samsung EVO. As you’ve read, Samsung’s PRO SSD range brings has the most features, and as such, you’ll pay accordingly.
Which Samsung SSD is Right for You?
After reviewing the different types of SSDs, you might wonder which one is right for you. Here are some scenarios:
So, whether you need blazing-fast speeds or large storage capacity, Samsung has a model that meets your requirements. Think about your needs and budget when choosing, and pick the right Samsung SSD for the best results.
