FAQ
TL;DR: If you’ll use 50%+ of the drive, "I would rather target 240–256GB models." Prefer MLC for consistency; all listed MLC options work well for normal use. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17052113]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps budget-focused upgraders pick a reliable SSD for Windows, apps, and everyday workloads without costly do-overs.
Quick Facts
- Expect >50% fill? Choose 240–256GB to keep headroom and stable performance. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17052113]
- Goodram IRDM Gen2 (MLC) handles standard use despite a modest controller. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17049886]
- ADATA Premier Pro SP920 (MLC) offers a strong controller, slightly slower writes, and 5‑year warranty. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17049886]
- 240GB Goodram Iridium street price was ~PLN 320–330 in the thread. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #17050007]
- Any SSD will feel clearly faster than an HDD day-to-day. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17056122]
Which should I buy: ADATA SP920 or Goodram IRDM Gen2 at ~128GB?
Pick SP920 if you value consistency and warranty. It uses MLC, has a strong controller, and a 5‑year warranty, though writes are slightly slower. Goodram IRDM Gen2 also uses MLC and, despite a modest controller, handles standard desktop use well. Choose SP920 for the warranty and controller strength; choose IRDM Gen2 if price wins and your workload is typical. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17049886]
128GB vs 240GB—what’s the smarter choice for Windows and apps?
Go 240GB. It avoids reinstalling later when 128GB fills with updates and apps. As one expert said, “buy bigger once and don’t waste 2 times.” Several users upgraded soon after, adding cost and hassle. Start with 240GB to prevent space pressure. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #17048787]
Will a 120GB IRDM Gen2 slow down with 70–80GB used?
At that usage you’ll be over 50% full. Target 240–256GB to maintain headroom and stable performance. The MLC models discussed work well in normal use, but capacity margin helps keep speeds steady as files accumulate. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17052113]
Does copying one big file accurately show SSD speed?
No. One large file mostly shows sequential speed. Real workloads hit many small 4KB files and reveal different behavior. Check results that include 4K random reads/writes and mixed scenarios. As the expert noted, “uploading one file is a poor test.” [Elektroda, dt1, post #17050661]
Is Crucial BX300 120GB a good budget alternative?
Yes. It uses MLC and was available around PLN 199 for 120GB in the thread timeframe. It’s a solid pick if you want MLC on a tight budget. The expert purchased one specifically as a low-cost MLC option. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17049886]
Is a no‑receipt Crucial MX300 275GB for PLN 250 a safe buy?
It’s attractive, but protect yourself. “Any SSD will be a performance leap,” yet buying electronics without a warranty is risky. Even a good unit can fail minutes after power-on. Inspect SMART to confirm condition and insist on at least a start-up warranty from a reliable seller. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17056122]
How do I check an SSD before buying used or without a receipt?
- Ask the seller for a full SMART report screenshot.
- Verify low power-on hours and writes; confirm the model and serial.
- Get a start-up warranty and test boot or quick file copy before paying. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17056122]
Will an ADATA XPG SX6000 (PCIe 3.0 x2, M.2) work on an ASRock H110M?
No, that board lacks an M.2 slot. An adapter would either block the x16 GPU slot or sit in a slow x1 slot, making it impractical. Use a 2.5-inch SATA SSD instead on this platform. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17054412]
How much usable space do I get on a “120GB” SSD?
Windows shows about 111 GiB usable on a 120GB SSD. Manufacturers rate in decimal gigabytes, while operating systems display binary gibibytes, so the reported capacity appears lower. [“Why is the capacity of my drive different from what is advertised?”]
Does the controller matter more than NAND type here?
For typical desktop use, both options work well. SP920’s controller is stronger and backed by 5 years of warranty. IRDM Gen2’s controller is modest yet adequate for standard use. Choose based on warranty preference and price, not just controller specs. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17049886]
Is ADATA SU800 a bad pick compared to these MLC options?
This thread leans toward MLC for consistent performance and endurance. If you must buy TLC, the expert named MX300 as a viable candidate among TLC models. If price is close, pick MLC options like SP920 or IRDM Gen2. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17056122]
What price did the 240GB Goodram Iridium have in the thread?
It was reported at approximately PLN 320–330 via a price check link. If your local price is far higher, compare alternatives before buying. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #17050007]
Will Windows and apps feel faster even on the cheapest SSD vs HDD?
Yes. The expert stated, “Any SSD will be a performance leap.” Even entry-level SSDs remove HDD bottlenecks in boot, load, and update tasks. You will feel the difference immediately in daily use. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17056122]
Are there forum benchmarks for IRDM Gen2 120GB and 240GB?
Yes. The expert shared IRDM Gen2 benchmarks for 240GB and referenced another user’s 120GB results in the linked thread. Use those results to compare real performance. [Elektroda, dt1, post #17049886]
