WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD vs WD_BLACK SN770 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD: Spec Comparison
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This wd black 2tb sn850 nvme internal vs 2tb sn770 nvme internal comparison looks at two high-performance drives. Both offer 2TB capacity and use the M.2 2280 form factor with PCIe Gen4 interfaces. They share 3D NAND technology and target gaming systems. The main difference lies in their speed capabilities. The SN850 delivers higher sequential read speeds, while the SN770 provides a more modest but still fast performance tier for standard gaming needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD | WD_BLACK SN770 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Max Sequential Read Speed | 7,000 MB/s | 5,150 MB/s |
| Max Sequential Write Speed | 5,300 MB/s | 4,850 MB/s |
| NAND Type | 3D NAND | Not listed |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD if
- You want the highest possible read speeds for fast game loading.
- You need a drive with explicitly listed 3D NAND specifications.
- You prioritize maximum write throughput for large file transfers.
Choose WD_BLACK SN770 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD if
- You are building a system where the motherboard limits speeds below 7,000 MB/s.
- You want a drive that supports DirectStorage technology for future game optimization.
- You prefer a slightly lower performance tier that still exceeds Gen3 limits.
Verdict: The SN850 is the better choice if you have a high-end system capable of utilizing its top-tier speeds. The SN770 is a solid alternative for gamers who want Gen4 performance without needing the absolute maximum bandwidth. Both drives fit the same M.2 slot and offer ample storage for modern titles.
SN850 vs SN770 Spec Comparison
Transfer Speeds
The WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD leads in raw throughput. It offers sequential read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s. The write speed reaches 5,300 MB/s for the 2TB model. In contrast, the WD_BLACK SN770 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD provides up to 5,150 MB/s for reads. Its write speed is 4,850 MB/s. This means the SN850 moves large game assets faster. You will notice quicker load times in demanding titles. The SN770 is still fast for most gaming needs. However, the SN850 holds a clear advantage in maximum bandwidth.
IOPS Performance
Random access speed matters for loading small files. The SN850 lists up to 1,000,000 IOPS for both the 1TB and 2TB models. This metric indicates how quickly the drive handles many small tasks. The SN770 does not list a specific IOPS value in its published specifications. Without this data, you cannot directly compare their random access capabilities. The SN850 explicitly highlights this performance tier. This suggests it is optimized for heavier workloads. You should prefer the SN850 if you need verified high IOPS numbers.
NAND Technology
Both drives use 3D NAND technology for storage. This type of NAND stacks memory cells vertically. It allows for higher capacities in a small form factor. The SN850 explicitly lists 3D NAND in its attributes. The SN770 does not specify the NAND type in its provided data. Since both are modern NVMe drives from the same brand, they likely use similar architectures. However, the SN850 provides confirmed transparency here. You get a clearer picture of the SN850's internal construction. The SN770 leaves this detail unspecified in the current data.
Form Factor
Physical dimensions determine if the drive fits your system. Both the SN850 and SN770 use the M.2 2280 form factor. They share identical dimensions: 0.87 inches in width, 3.15 inches in length, and 0.09 inches in height. This standard size fits most modern motherboards and laptops. You do not need to worry about space constraints. The physical footprint is exactly the same for both models. You can swap them in compatible slots without modification. This aspect results in a complete tie for fitment.
Interface Compatibility
Both drives utilize the PCIe Gen4 interface for data transfer. The SN850 is optimized for next-gen PCIe Gen4 technology. The SN770 also supports PCIe Gen4 but is backwards-compatible with PCIe Gen3. This backward compatibility ensures the SN770 works in older systems. The SN850 data does not explicitly mention Gen3 support, though it is likely compatible. The SN770’s explicit mention of Gen3 support offers a slight advantage for older hardware. You should choose the SN770 if your motherboard is an older Gen3 model.
Software Features
Both drives support the WD_BLACK Dashboard software. This tool helps you customize gaming experiences and monitor drive health. The SN770 specifies that the dashboard is for Windows only. The SN850 mentions a downloadable dashboard but does not list OS restrictions. This implies broader compatibility for the SN850 software. You get more assurance with the SN850 regarding system support. The SN770’s Windows-only note limits its utility for other users. This gives the SN850 a slight edge in software accessibility.
Which drive fits your gaming setup
You want the fastest possible load times
The SN850 delivers sequential read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s. This is significantly faster than the SN770’s 5,150 MB/s limit. You also get write speeds of 5,300 MB/s. These numbers help reduce game load times more effectively. If raw speed is your priority, this top-tier Gen4 drive is the clear choice for your system.
You need reliable performance for modern games
The SN770 supports Microsoft’s DirectStorage technology. This feature helps accelerate load times for compatible future games. It also minimizes stutter and provides smooth streaming. With 5,150 MB/s read speeds, you get strong performance without the premium cost. This drive balances speed and value for most gaming setups.
You want detailed drive health monitoring
Both drives support the WD_BLACK Dashboard software. The SN850 is optimized for top-tier gaming performance. You can customize settings to control your gaming experience. This software allows you to monitor health and adjust modes. If you prefer a drive focused on high-end customization and maximum throughput, the SN850 is the better fit.
The products compared
WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD
Best for: high-performance gaming and large storage needs
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- Gen4 PCIe
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7,000 MB/s
- Compatibility
- Gaming
- NAND Type
- 3D NAND
View on Amazon: WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The WD_BLACK SN850 2TB is a Gen4 PCIe NVMe drive with a 3D NAND configuration. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 5,300 MB/s. The drive offers 1,000,000 IOPS for fast data access. It fits the M.2 2280 form factor. This model suits gamers seeking high throughput for large game libraries.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds up to 5,300 MB/s
- 1,000,000 IOPS for random access performance
- 2TB storage capacity for large game libraries
Cons
- Not intended for NAS or server environments
- Requires WD_BLACK Dashboard software for customization
- Higher power consumption than lower-tier drives
Good fit if
- You need top-tier Gen4 read speeds for gaming
- You want 2TB of storage for large files
- You prefer a compact M.2 2280 form factor
Skip if
- You need a drive for NAS or server use
- You require a heatsink included in the box
- You are on a tight budget for lower speeds
Verdict: WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD offers the fastest read speeds in this comparison, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize load times and large game storage.
WD_BLACK SN770 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD
Best for: Gamers needing fast Gen4 storage and 2TB capacity
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 5150MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 4850MB/s
- Compatibility
- Gaming
View on Amazon: WD_BLACK SN770 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The WD_BLACK SN770 2TB is a PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive in an M.2 2280 form factor. It offers sequential read speeds up to 5,150 MB/s and write speeds up to 4,850 MB/s. This capacity handles large game libraries and updates. The drive supports DirectStorage for faster load times. You get reliable performance for gaming with a compact 0.87 by 3.15 inch profile.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds reach 5,150 MB/s
- 2TB storage capacity for large libraries
- Supports Microsoft DirectStorage technology
- Compatible with PCIe Gen3 motherboards
Cons
- Write speed is lower than the SN850
- Software dashboard works on Windows only
- No included heatsink for thermal management
Good fit if
- You need 2TB of fast storage for gaming
- You want PCIe Gen4 performance in a standard M.2 2280 size
- You are building a PC that supports DirectStorage
Skip if
- You require the absolute highest write speeds available
- You need macOS compatibility for the management software
- You prefer a drive with an integrated heatsink
Verdict: WD_BLACK SN770 2TB NVMe SSD provides strong Gen4 speeds and ample space for gamers who prioritize load times. It fits users who want high performance without the premium cost of the faster SN850 model.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WD_BLACK SN850 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD | WD_BLACK SN770 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB | 2TB |
| Interface | Gen4 PCIe | PCIe Gen4 |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 |
| Max Read Speed | 7,000 MB/s | 5150MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not stated | 4850MB/s |
| Compatibility | Gaming | Gaming |
| NAND Type | 3D NAND | not stated |
| Size | 2TB | 2TB |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.09 inches | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.09 inches |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | WDS200T1X0E | WDS200T3X0E |
Frequently asked questions
Are the WD_BLACK SN850 and SN770 physically identical?
Yes, both drives share the exact same physical dimensions. Each measures 3.15 inches in length, 0.87 inches in width, and 0.09 inches in height. They both use the M.2 2280 form factor. This means they fit into the same slots on most motherboards. You do not need to worry about space constraints when choosing between the two models.
Does the SN850 use better NAND flash than the SN770?
The published specifications list both drives as using 3D NAND technology. The data does not specify a difference in the type of NAND, such as TLC versus QLC. Both models provide 2TB of storage capacity. You can expect similar endurance and density characteristics based on the shared 3D NAND architecture listed in the attributes.
Is the SN850 compatible with PlayStation 5?
Yes, the WD_BLACK SN850 is listed as compatible with gaming systems. Its high sequential read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s make it suitable for PS5 storage expansion. The SN770 is also designed for gaming compatibility. Both drives meet the form factor requirements for modern gaming consoles and PCs.
What is the model number for the 2TB SN850?
The model number for the WD_BLACK SN850 2TB drive is WDS200T1X0E. This identifier helps you verify you are purchasing the correct high-performance variant. It distinguishes the SN850 from other capacities or models in the WD_BLACK lineup. You should check this code when ordering to ensure you get the Gen4 NVMe version.
What is the model number for the 2TB SN770?
The model number for the WD_BLACK SN770 2TB drive is WDS200T3X0E. This specific code identifies the mid-range Gen4 option. It is different from the SN850 model number. Using the correct model number ensures you select the drive with the 5,150 MB/s read speed limit rather than the faster SN850.
Do both drives come in black?
Yes, both the SN850 and SN770 2TB models are listed with a black color. This standard aesthetic fits well with most PC builds. The black finish is consistent across both the high-performance SN850 and the value-oriented SN770. You do not need to look for different color options if you prefer a uniform look.
Is the SN770 a PCIe Gen4 drive?
Yes, the WD_BLACK SN770 2TB is a Gen4 NVMe SSD. It utilizes the NVMe interface over the PCIe Gen4 bus. This allows it to achieve sequential read speeds up to 5,150 MB/s. It is fully compatible with PCIe Gen4 slots on modern motherboards and consoles.