Buying an SSD: fast is not the same as noticeable
The advertised number is the sequential read rate — the one figure you notice least in daily use. Form factor, capacity and whether there is a DRAM cache matter more.
NVMe, SATA or hard disk?
Always NVMe for the system drive. A SATA SSD only makes sense when no M.2 slot is free. Spinning disks still have their place for archiving large amounts of data.
DRAM cache and sustained load
Without a DRAM cache the write rate collapses once the buffer is full — clearly noticeable when copying large folders. If you write a lot, also check the endurance rating (TBW).
Be generous with capacity
A nearly full SSD gets slower. Plan around 20 % spare capacity — the step from 1 to 2 TB usually costs less than the later hassle.
Quick checklist
- System drive: NVMe with DRAM cache
- Check the M.2 slot and PCIe generation
- Leave around 20 % capacity free
- Heatsink if the board has none
