Samsung or Addlink? Nvme SSDs Compared in 2026
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You are comparing the Samsung 860 EVO and the Addlink S20 in this samsung vs addlink nvme SSD analysis. Both are 2.5-inch SATA drives with similar sequential speeds. The Samsung uses V-NAND and offers AES 256-bit encryption with a 5-year warranty. The Addlink relies on 3D NAND with SLC caching and provides a 3-year warranty. You need to check the specific capacity and security needs for your system.
Key differences
| Aspect | Samsung 860 EVO 500GB SATA SSD | Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Max Read Speed | 550MB/s | 500MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 520MB/s | 450MB/s |
| NAND Type | V-NAND | 3D NAND |
| Security | AES 256-bit hardware encryption | not listed |
| Warranty | 5-year limited | 3-year limited |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Samsung 860 EVO 500GB SATA SSD if
- You need the highest sequential read and write speeds available in this comparison.
- You require hardware-based AES 256-bit encryption for data security.
- You want the longest manufacturer warranty period for peace of mind.
Choose Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD if
- You prioritize a lower cost per gigabyte for basic storage upgrades.
- You are upgrading a PS4 and need a drive that drops in without adapters.
- You prefer a drive with SLC caching to help with sustained write performance.
Verdict: The Samsung 860 EVO is the better choice if you need faster transfer speeds and built-in hardware encryption. The Addlink S20 is a practical option for basic upgrades where cost and simple compatibility are your main concerns.
Samsung 860 EVO vs Addlink S20
Transfer speed
The Samsung 860 EVO delivers higher peak performance with sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 520MB/s. The Addlink S20 offers slightly lower maximums, providing 500MB/s reads and 450MB/s writes. While both drives utilize the SATA III interface, the Samsung unit maintains a consistent advantage in raw throughput numbers. For users prioritizing faster file transfers or quicker application loading times, the Samsung specifications indicate a modest but measurable improvement over the Addlink model.
Cache type
The Addlink S20 explicitly features built-in SLC caching to maintain responsive performance during large file transfers and heavy workloads, even without dedicated DRAM. This design choice helps sustain speed when writing large amounts of data. The Samsung 860 EVO specifications do not list a specific cache type or mention SLC caching in the provided data. Without this explicit detail, the Addlink S20 presents a clearer advantage for users concerned about sustained write performance under heavy load.
NAND type
The Addlink S20 is built with 3D NAND flash memory, which is highlighted in its features for durability and power efficiency. The Samsung 860 EVO is powered by Samsung V-NAND technology, which is also a form of 3D NAND, but the specific branding differs. Both technologies aim to provide high density and reliability. Since the data confirms both use advanced NAND structures, neither product holds a distinct advantage based solely on the general NAND type classification provided in the specifications.
Security
The Samsung 860 EVO includes robust security features, specifically AES 256-bit hardware-based encryption. It is compliant with TCG Opal and IEEE 1670 standards, allowing you to protect data at the hardware level. The Addlink S20 specifications do not mention hardware encryption or compliance with these security standards. If data protection and encryption are priorities for your setup, the Samsung drive offers verified security options that the Addlink model does not list.
Warranty
The Samsung 860 EVO comes with a 5-year limited warranty, providing longer coverage for your investment. The Addlink S20 is backed by a 3-year limited warranty. While both manufacturers offer support, the Samsung drive provides two additional years of protection. For users seeking longer-term assurance against drive failures, the Samsung 860 EVO offers a more comprehensive warranty period compared to the Addlink S20.
Which SSD fits your needs?
Users needing fast large file transfers
The Samsung 860 EVO offers higher sequential write speeds of 520MB/s compared to the Addlink S20's 450MB/s. This makes it better for moving large files quickly. It also includes AES 256-bit hardware encryption for data security. If speed and security are your top priorities, this drive delivers the performance you need for heavy workloads.
Budget gamers upgrading a PS4
The Addlink S20 is designed to fit directly into PlayStation 4 consoles without adapters. It uses SLC caching to maintain responsive performance during large transfers, which helps with game loading. While its write speeds are lower, the 512GB capacity and specific console compatibility make it a practical choice for gamers looking to expand their storage.
Those wanting longer warranty coverage
Samsung provides a 5-year limited warranty with the 860 EVO, which is longer than the 3-year warranty offered by Addlink for the S20. This extended coverage provides additional peace of mind for long-term use. If you plan to keep your computer for several years, the longer warranty period is a significant advantage for your investment.
The products compared
Samsung 860 EVO 500GB SATA SSD
Best for: Upgrading desktops and laptops with SATA bays
- Storage Capacity
- 500GB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5 Inch
- Max Read Speed
- 550MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 520MB/s
- Dimensions
- 3.94 × 2.76 × 0.27 inches
View on Amazon: Samsung 860 EVO 500GB SATA SSD Affiliate link
The Samsung 860 EVO 500GB is a 2.5-inch SATA III drive built with V-NAND technology. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 520MB/s. This model includes AES 256-bit hardware encryption and carries a five-year limited warranty. It fits standard desktops and laptops. You get reliable performance for everyday computing and media tasks without needing a PCIe slot.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s
- AES 256-bit hardware encryption
- Five-year limited warranty
- V-NAND technology for optimized performance
Cons
- Slower speeds compared to NVMe drives
- 500GB capacity is modest for large libraries
- SATA interface limits bandwidth potential
Good fit if
- You need a reliable upgrade for a 2.5-inch bay
- You want hardware encryption for data security
- You prefer a proven SATA drive over newer NVMe
Skip if
- You need the highest possible transfer speeds
- You are building a compact M.2-only system
- You require more than 500GB of storage
Verdict: Samsung 860 EVO 500GB SATA SSD offers solid SATA performance and strong security features. It is the right choice for users upgrading older systems who value reliability and encryption over raw speed.
Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
Best for: upgrading PS4 consoles and older SATA systems
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5 inch
- Max Read Speed
- 500MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 450MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Caching
View on Amazon: Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD Affiliate link
The Addlink S20 is a 2.5-inch SATA III internal SSD offering 512GB of storage with 3D NAND flash. It delivers read speeds up to 500MB/s and write speeds up to 450MB/s using SLC caching without dedicated DRAM. It fits systems with standard 7mm drive bays, making it suitable if you need a direct replacement for an aging mechanical hard drive.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 500MB/s and write speeds up to 450MB/s
- Standard 7mm 2.5-inch form factor fits notebooks and PS4 consoles
- Built-in SLC write caching to handle file transfers
- Backing from a 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Lacks onboard DRAM cache
- SATA III read speeds peak at 500MB/s, well below NVMe standards
- Write throughput tops out at 450MB/s
Good fit if
- You want to upgrade an older SATA laptop, desktop, or PlayStation 4 console from an HDD.
- You need an entry-level 512GB boot drive for everyday operating system tasks.
Skip if
- You possess an M.2 slot capable of taking faster PCIe NVMe drives.
- You handle sustained data writes that benefit from dedicated onboard DRAM.
Verdict: Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD serves users swapping out spinning hard drives in legacy PCs or PS4 consoles for responsive solid-state storage. Its 500MB/s read ceiling and DRAM-less design target basic system responsiveness over demanding multi-gigabyte workstation tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Samsung 860 EVO 500GB SATA SSD | Addlink S20 512GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 500GB | 512GB |
| Interface | SATA III | SATA III |
| Form Factor | 2.5 Inch | 2.5 inch |
| Max Read Speed | 550MB/s | 500MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 520MB/s | 450MB/s |
| Cache Type | not stated | SLC Caching |
| NAND Type | not stated | 3D NAND |
| Size | 500GB | 512GB |
| Dimensions | 3.94 × 2.76 × 0.27 inches | 3.94 × 2.75 × 0.28 inches |
| Weight | 1.76 ounces | not stated |
| Color | Black | S20 |
| Model | MZ-76E500B/AM | ad512GBS20S3S |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Samsung 860 EVO better for desktop upgrades?
Yes, if you have SATA bays. The Samsung 860 EVO is designed for desktops and laptops with SATA connections. It offers strong security features and reliability. This makes it a solid choice for upgrading older systems that rely on standard SATA interfaces rather than modern NVMe slots.
Does the Addlink S20 work with consoles?
Yes, it is suitable for console upgrades. The Addlink S20 is listed as a practical choice for PS4 storage upgrades. It provides solid SATA III performance for everyday computing. This makes it a viable option for expanding storage on compatible gaming consoles alongside your primary computer.
What is the main difference in cache technology?
The Addlink S20 uses SLC caching. The Samsung 860 EVO does not list SLC caching in its attributes. SLC caching helps maintain speed during large file transfers. The Samsung drive relies on its V-NAND technology for performance, while the Addlink drive emphasizes durability through its caching method.
Which drive has hardware encryption?
The Samsung 860 EVO includes AES 256-bit encryption. This feature enhances data security for your stored files. The Addlink S20 does not mention encryption capabilities in its provided data. If security is a priority for your system, the Samsung drive offers this specific hardware-level protection.
Are these drives NVMe or SATA?
Both drives use the SATA III interface. They are not NVMe drives. The Samsung 860 EVO and Addlink S20 both connect via SATA III. This means they fit in standard 2.5-inch drive bays. You should look for NVMe models if your motherboard supports M.2 slots for faster speeds.
Which SSD is lighter?
The Samsung 860 EVO weighs 1.76 ounces. The Addlink S20 does not list a weight in its specs. Both are 2.5-inch form factors. The Samsung drive has a listed height of 0.27 inches, while the Addlink is 0.28 inches thick. The Samsung unit is slightly more compact in height.