- Is the WD_BLACK SN8100 worth it over a Gen 4 SSD?
- Only if your motherboard or PS5 can use Gen 5 bandwidth and you move large files or play big games. On a Gen 4 slot it will run at Gen 4 speeds, so a cheaper Gen 4 drive makes more sense.
- Does it need a heatsink?
- Under sustained Gen 5 loads it runs warm, so a heatsink or a motherboard M.2 shield is recommended. PS5 installation requires a heatsink that fits the console's expansion bay.
- Will it fit a laptop?
- It is a standard M.2 2280 drive, but Gen 5 laptops are rare and the drive's heat output can be a problem in tight chassis. Check that your laptop slot supports the length and has cooling.
- What is in the box?
- The drive itself, typically without a heatsink or mounting screws. You supply the heatsink and any screws your motherboard or console needs.
- How does it compare with the SN850X?
- The SN8100 uses PCIe Gen 5 for higher peak sequential speeds, while the SN850X is Gen 4. Real-world game load times are close; the SN8100's advantage shows in large sequential transfers on a Gen 5 platform.
- Where is the WD_BLACK SN8100 4TB NVMe M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 5x4 Internal SSD cheapest?
- At Amazon, for $839.99, 56% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.
- Where can I buy the WD_BLACK SN8100 4TB NVMe M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 5x4 Internal SSD?
- 9 stores we checked sell it, including Best Buy, Newegg.com, eBay, Filmtools, Newegg Business.