Main points
- The Aorus is the better choice if you need a drive with high sequential read and write speeds, a large storage capacity, and an effective heatsink design.
- The 980 Pro is a better option if you prioritize random read and write performance, a comprehensive software suite, and a slightly more budget-friendly price.
- The Gigabyte Aorus has a TBW rating of up to 1,440 TBW, while the Samsung 980 Pro has a TBW rating of 600 TBW.
When it comes to choosing the best NVMe SSD for your gaming rig or workstation, the Gigabyte Aorus and Samsung 980 Pro are two top contenders. Both offer blazing-fast speeds, ample storage capacity, and cutting-edge features. But which one is the right choice for you? This comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision.
Speed and Performance
Both the Gigabyte Aorus and Samsung 980 Pro deliver exceptional speeds thanks to their PCIe 4.0 interface. However, the Aorus boasts slightly higher sequential read and write speeds of up to 7,000 MB/s and 6,850 MB/s, respectively. The 980 Pro, on the other hand, offers slightly better random read and write performance, making it more responsive for demanding applications like gaming and video editing.
Storage Capacity
The Gigabyte Aorus is available in capacities ranging from 500GB to 2TB, while the Samsung 980 Pro offers options from 250GB to 1TB. If you need a large amount of storage space for your games, videos, and other files, the Aorus is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the 980 Pro’s smaller capacities may suffice.
Endurance and Reliability
Both the Aorus and 980 Pro feature long endurance ratings, ensuring they can withstand heavy usage over time. The Aorus has a TBW (Total Bytes Written) rating of up to 1,440 TBW, while the 980 Pro offers a slightly lower rating of 600 TBW. However, both drives come with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind against potential failures.
Features
The Gigabyte Aorus and Samsung 980 Pro both come with a range of advanced features to enhance performance and reliability. The Aorus features a unique heatsink design that helps dissipate heat effectively, reducing thermal throttling and maintaining optimal performance. The 980 Pro, on the other hand, utilizes Samsung‘s Dynamic Thermal Guard technology to monitor and adjust temperatures automatically.
Software and Ecosystem
Both drives come with their own software suites for monitoring and managing drive health and performance. The Aorus SSD Tool provides real-time information about drive temperature, usage, and SMART attributes. The Samsung Magician software offers a more comprehensive set of features, including performance optimization, firmware updates, and data security options.
Pricing and Value
The Gigabyte Aorus and Samsung 980 Pro are priced similarly, with the Aorus typically being slightly more expensive. However, the Aorus offers higher sequential read and write speeds and a larger storage capacity option. The 980 Pro, on the other hand, provides better random read and write performance and a more comprehensive software suite. Ultimately, the best value for you depends on your specific needs and budget.
Wrap-Up: The Best NVMe SSD for Your Needs
Both the Gigabyte Aorus and Samsung 980 Pro are exceptional NVMe SSDs that offer blazing-fast speeds, ample storage capacity, and advanced features. The Aorus is the better choice if you need a drive with high sequential read and write speeds, a large storage capacity, and an effective heatsink design. The 980 Pro is a better option if you prioritize random read and write performance, a comprehensive software suite, and a slightly more budget-friendly price.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: Which drive has better overall performance?
A1: The Gigabyte Aorus offers slightly better sequential read and write speeds, while the Samsung 980 Pro provides better random read and write performance.
Q2: Which drive offers the largest storage capacity?
A2: The Gigabyte Aorus is available in capacities up to 2TB, while the Samsung 980 Pro offers options up to 1TB.
Q3: Which drive has a longer endurance rating?
A3: The Gigabyte Aorus has a TBW rating of up to 1,440 TBW, while the Samsung 980 Pro has a TBW rating of 600 TBW.