Conclusion
As reasonable as the drive sounds on first inspection, OCZ's own Arc 100, limited to 480GB, is priced at similar levels and offers genuine two-bits-per-cell MLC memory instead.Bringing a TLC-based SSD to the entry-level segment appears to be a sage move. The ability to cram in more memory in a given space enables OCZ to reduce the barriers to entry for SSDs filled with reasonable capacities.
Performance is strong in sequential tests but, understandably, the results aren't as handsome when writing small files, which oftentimes is the Achilles heel of TLC-based drives.
OCZ still backs the drive with a decent three-year warranty that covers 110GB writes per day. As reasonable as the drive sounds on first inspection, OCZ's own Arc 100, albeit limited to 480GB, is priced at similar levels and offers genuine two-bits-per-cell MLC memory instead. It's significantly better when running steady-state tests and has baked in encryption to boot.
Crucial and SK hynix have decent drives in the value segment; OCZ adds another in the form of the Trion 100. Though certainly hitting the right kind of notes in terms of basic straight line performance, we feel that, until it becomes end of life, which is likely soon, the Arc will remain a minor thorn in the Trion's side.
The Good The Bad Fast in sequential tests
Available in 960GB capacity
Shield Plus warranty
Good endurance
No encryption support
Not great at 4K random writes
Priced too close to Arc 100
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TBC.
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