Intel SSDSC2KB240G801: A Comprehensive Review of Performance and Reliability

The Intel SSDSC2KB240G801, part of Intel's renowned 535 Series, stands as a robust 240GB SATA SSD designed for both client and entry-level enterprise applications. Built with a focus on delivering a balanced blend of performance, endurance, and reliability, this drive leverages Intel's expertise in NAND flash technology to offer a compelling storage solution.

Performance Analysis

Equipped with a SATA 6Gb/s interface, the drive delivers performance that fully saturates the bandwidth capabilities of the SATA III standard. Sequential read speeds are consistently measured in the upper tier of the SATA SSD spectrum, reaching up to 540 MB/s, while sequential write speeds cap at approximately 490 MB/s. This ensures swift boot times, rapid application loading, and fast transfer of large files.

For random I/O operations, which are critical for system responsiveness and multitasking, the drive performs admirably. It handles mixed workloads efficiently, making it suitable for everyday computing tasks and light professional work. The drive's performance is backed by a Silicon Motion SM2246EN controller and Intel's own 16nm MLC NAND flash, a combination that provides a stable and predictable performance profile even under sustained use.

Reliability and Endurance

A key highlight of the Intel 535 Series is its exceptional reliability and endurance. The SSDSC2KB240G801 model boasts a mean time between failures (MTBF) of 1.2 million hours, a figure that inspires confidence in its long-term durability. Furthermore, it is rated for 72 terabytes written (TBW), which translates to a substantial lifespan for typical user workloads. This endurance is a direct benefit of using MLC NAND, which typically offers greater write cycles compared to more common TLC or QLC alternatives.

The drive also incorporates full power-loss protection, a feature not always present in client SSDs. This advanced data integrity feature helps prevent data corruption in the event of an unexpected power outage, safeguarding critical information.

Value and Use Cases

While not the absolute fastest by modern NVMe standards, this SATA drive offers excellent value for users seeking a dependable upgrade from a traditional hard drive or a lower-end SSD. It is an ideal choice for revitalizing an older laptop or desktop, serving as a reliable boot drive, or handling light server caching duties. Its enterprise-grade features trickled down to a client drive make it a particularly trustworthy option.

ICGOOODFIND

The Intel SSDSC2KB240G801 is a highly reliable workhorse from a trusted brand. It may not top synthetic benchmark charts, but its consistent real-world performance, strong endurance metrics, and crucial data protection features make it a standout choice for anyone prioritizing stability and longevity over peak sequential transfer speeds. It remains a solid and smart investment for dependable storage.

Keywords: Intel 535 Series, SATA SSD, Performance Benchmark, Data Endurance, Power-Loss Protection