Mushkin Gamma 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This mushkin gamma gen 4 0 review covers the 2TB internal drive designed for PS5 and desktop PCs. It uses a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe 1.3 interface in a standard M.2 2280 form factor. The drive lists a maximum read speed of 7,175 MB/s and a maximum write speed of 6,800 MB/s. These figures place it in the high-performance tier for modern systems. The unit relies on a Phison E18 controller to manage data flow. It is built to fit into compatible slots without requiring additional adapters. You get a straightforward storage solution focused on raw throughput for gaming and general computing tasks.
What stands out
- Phison E18 controller for efficient data handling
- Maximum read speed of 7,175 MB/s
- Maximum write speed of 6,800 MB/s
- Hardware encryption for data security
- 5-Year Limited Warranty coverage
Who it fits
Good fit for
This drive suits PS5 owners who need to meet Sony’s minimum speed requirements for fast loading times. It also fits desktop builders and laptop users who want high sequential transfer rates for large files. The M.2 2280 size ensures compatibility with most modern motherboards. If you prioritize fast read and write speeds for gaming or content creation, this specification set aligns with those needs. The hardware encryption adds a layer of security for sensitive data without impacting performance.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you require QLC NAND, as this drive uses that less durable flash type. It may not be ideal for heavy write workloads or constant large file transfers over long periods. If you need PCIe Gen 5 speeds, this Gen 4 model will not meet your expectations. Users seeking a drive with a built-in heatsink might find the bare module insufficient for their thermal management needs. Consider a TLC-based alternative for better endurance in demanding professional environments.
Verdict: The Mushkin Gamma 2TB offers strong Gen 4 speeds and a reputable controller for PS5 and PC upgrades. It is a solid choice for gamers seeking fast load times, provided you accept the QLC NAND endurance profile.
Mushkin Gamma Key Specs Explained
Storage Capacity: 2TB
This drive holds 2 terabytes of data. You can store roughly 500 to 1,000 high-resolution games, depending on their size. It also fits a large library of documents, photos, and video files. If you need ample space for modern AAA titles, this capacity reduces the need for frequent file management or external storage solutions.
Max Read Speed: 7,175 MB/s
The drive retrieves data at up to 7,175 megabytes per second. This speed is significantly faster than SATA SSDs and many older NVMe models. You will notice quicker game load times and faster file transfers. This performance level ensures your system does not bottleneck when accessing large assets from storage quickly.
Max Write Speed: 6,800 MB/s
The drive writes data at up to 6,800 megabytes per second. This high throughput helps when installing large games or copying massive files to the drive. It keeps the storage pipeline full, preventing slowdowns during heavy write operations. This speed is typical for high-end PCIe 4.0 drives in current market comparisons.
Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe 1.3
This interface uses four lanes of PCIe 4.0 technology. It provides a wide data path for high speeds. The NVMe 1.3 protocol manages how data moves efficiently. You must ensure your motherboard supports PCIe 4.0 to achieve these advertised speeds. Older PCIe 3.0 boards will run the drive at lower speeds.
Form Factor: M.2 2280
The drive measures 80mm by 22mm. This is the standard size for most modern desktop motherboards and the PlayStation 5. It fits directly into M.2 slots without requiring cables or adapters. Check your device specifications to confirm it accepts this specific physical dimension for proper installation and compatibility.
NAND Type: QLC
This drive uses Quad-Level Cell NAND flash. Each cell stores four bits of data. This technology allows for higher storage capacities at lower costs. However, QLC typically has lower endurance and slower sustained write speeds compared to TLC or SLC NAND. It is suitable for general storage and gaming rather than heavy continuous writing.
Physical Design and Build Details
The listing describes the Mushkin Gamma as a standard M.2 2280 drive. Its physical dimensions are 3.15 inches in length, 0.87 inches in width, and 0.15 inches in height. This form factor is the most common size for modern laptops and desktop motherboards. You will find this specific shape in nearly every current PC build. The low profile of 0.15 inches means it fits easily into tight spaces. It does not require additional clearance for cooling fans or large cases.
According to the listing, the drive uses a Phison E18 controller. This component manages data flow between your system and the NAND flash memory. The product data identifies the NAND type as QLC. This choice allows the manufacturer to offer a 2TB capacity at a smaller physical footprint. QLC storage is designed for high capacity rather than extreme endurance. It suits users who prioritize space for games and media over constant heavy writing.
The interface is PCIe Gen4 x4 with NVMe 1.3 support. This connection standard ensures compatibility with PS5 consoles and modern PCs. The drive includes hardware encryption for security. This feature protects your data at rest. The listing notes a 5-year limited warranty. This coverage period suggests confidence in the drive's longevity. You can rely on this timeframe for standard personal or gaming use without worrying about premature failure.
Setup and Everyday Use
You can install this drive in PS5 consoles, desktop PCs, and laptop notebooks. The standard M.2 2280 form factor ensures it fits most modern motherboards and expansion slots. Installation is straightforward. You simply slide the drive into the slot and secure it with a screw. No special tools are required beyond what your device already provides.
The interface is PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe 1.3. This means you need a system that supports Gen4 speeds to get the full performance. If your motherboard only supports Gen3, the drive will still work but will run at lower speeds. The maximum read speed is 7,175 MB/s and the write speed is 6,800 MB/s. These figures suggest fast file transfers and quick game load times on compatible hardware.
For daily use, the 2TB capacity provides ample space for games and large files. The drive uses QLC NAND. This type of memory offers high density at a lower cost but may have slower sustained write speeds when the cache is full. You should keep some free space to maintain performance. The drive includes hardware encryption for security. It also comes with a 5-year limited warranty, which provides peace of mind for long-term use.
Before You Buy This Drive
You should verify that your motherboard or PS5 supports PCIe Gen4 x4. While this drive works in older systems, it will run at Gen3 speeds. The Phison E18 controller manages performance well, but the QLC NAND means you should avoid filling the drive completely. Leaving some free space helps maintain write speeds over time. You may need an M.2 heatsink for desktop PCs to keep temperatures down during heavy loads. This drive fits well alongside other PCIe 4.0 options if you need high sequential speeds for gaming. It is less ideal for constant large file transfers compared to TLC drives. Check your BIOS settings to ensure NVMe mode is enabled. The 5-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind. Always back up your data, as SSDs can fail unexpectedly. This model is best for users who prioritize read speeds for game loading.
Check before you buy
- Confirm your system supports PCIe Gen4 x4 for full speed.
- Check if your motherboard includes an M.2 heatsink.
- Ensure you leave some free space to maintain write performance.
- Verify PS5 compatibility if you plan to use it in a console.
- Back up important data regularly regardless of warranty coverage.
The product at a glance
Mushkin Gamma 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
Best for: PS5 gamers and desktop users needing 2TB capacity
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe 1.3
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7,175 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6,800 MB/s
- Compatibility
- PS5, Gaming
View on Amazon: Mushkin Gamma 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The Mushkin Gamma 2TB is an M.2 2280 drive using PCIe Gen 4 x4 and NVMe 1.3. It features a Phison E18 controller and QLC NAND. Sequential speeds reach 7,175 MB/s read and 6,800 MB/s write. It includes hardware encryption and fits PS5, desktops, and laptops. The 2TB capacity suits users needing ample storage for large game libraries.
Pros
- Phison E18 controller for reliable performance
- Max read speed of 7,175 MB/s
- Max write speed of 6,800 MB/s
- Hardware encryption for data security
- Compatible with PS5 and gaming PCs
Cons
- Uses QLC NAND which may have lower endurance
- No included thermal heatsink for passive cooling
- NVMe 1.3 protocol is older than 2.0
Good fit if
- You need a high-capacity drive for PS5 gaming
- You want fast sequential speeds for large file transfers
- You prefer a drive with hardware encryption
Skip if
- You require TLC NAND for higher write endurance
- You need the latest NVMe 2.0 features
- You want a drive with an integrated heatsink
Verdict: Mushkin Gamma 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD offers strong read speeds and PS5 compatibility, making it a solid choice for gamers who prioritize capacity and fast load times over NAND endurance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Mushkin Gamma 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe 1.3 |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 |
| Max Read Speed | 7,175 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 6,800 MB/s |
| Compatibility | PS5, Gaming |
| NAND Type | QLC |
| Security | Hardware Encryption |
| Size | 2TB |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.15 inches |
| Color | Gen.4 PCIe |
| Model | MKNSSDGA2TB-D8 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mushkin Gamma 2TB compatible with PS5?
Yes, this drive is explicitly listed as compatible with PS5 consoles. It meets the physical size requirements for internal storage expansion in Sony's next-generation hardware. You can use it to store and play PS5 games directly from the drive, provided your console supports PCIe Gen4 speeds.
What type of NAND does the Mushkin Gamma use?
The Mushkin Gamma 2TB utilizes QLC NAND flash memory. QLC cells store four bits per cell, which allows for higher capacities at lower costs compared to TLC or SLC options. This choice prioritizes storage density and read performance over the extreme endurance found in higher-tier NAND types.
Does this SSD include hardware encryption?
Yes, the specifications list hardware encryption as a built-in security feature. This means the drive encrypts data on the fly using dedicated circuitry, rather than relying on the host CPU. This helps maintain performance while keeping your stored files secure against unauthorized access or data theft.
What are the physical dimensions of this M.2 drive?
The drive measures 3.15 inches in length, 0.87 inches in width, and 0.15 inches in height. These dimensions correspond to the standard M.2 2280 form factor. This size is widely used in modern laptops, desktop motherboards, and gaming consoles, ensuring it fits into most available expansion slots.
How fast is the read speed on this PCIe 4.0 SSD?
The maximum sequential read speed is listed as 7,175 MB/s. This high throughput is enabled by the PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe interface. Such speeds allow for rapid loading of large game assets and quick transfer of large files, significantly reducing wait times compared to older Gen3 drives.
Can I use this SSD in a desktop PC?
Yes, this drive is designed for desktop PCs as well as laptops and consoles. It uses the standard M.2 2280 interface, which is common on modern motherboards. You can install it in any slot that supports NVMe protocols, benefiting from its high read speeds for everyday computing tasks.