PC Gamer {Hardware} Awards: The perfect SSDs of 2022

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2022 was the yr SSDs squeezed the previous few morsels of efficiency from the PCIe Gen 4 protocol. Effectively, not less than by way of peak sequential throughput. In terms of IOPS and random 4K efficiency, arguably there’s nonetheless loads of room for enchancment.

Subsequent yr, we’re trying ahead to the arrival of Gen 5 drives and simply possibly an honest step in up by way of IOPS. However for now, Gen 4 M.2 drives are pretty much as good because it will get and there have been certainly some wonderful SSDs this yr. However which M.2 SSD was truly one of the best we noticed all through 2022?

SK Hynix introduced its arrival as not simply an OEM provider of SSD expertise, however a significant retail participant with the SK Hynix Platinum P41, an all in-house affair primarily based on SK Hynix’s personal flash reminiscence chips and controller. It instantly made a mark with wonderful all-round efficiency.

In the meantime, the Silicon Energy XS70 is among the better of the horde of drives powered by the favored Phison E18 controller. Outfitted with high quality TLC NAND reminiscence, it delivers all the same old E18 upsides at a aggressive worth.

After which there’s WD’s up to date SN850X. Strictly talking, this heatsinked M.2 drive is supposed to enchantment to console homeowners. However it’s an all-round enchancment on the already wonderful SN850 and might usually be had for a really interesting worth. It is completely in with a shout of high honors.

Finest SSD 2022: the nominees

The winner of the PC Gamer {Hardware} Award for one of the best gaming SSD might be introduced on New 12 months’s Eve. It is all to play for, and any one among these three is totally deserving of the crown.