Unleashing the Beast: Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 vs Samsung 980 Pro – Which Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right NVMe SSD can be a daunting task, especially when you’re looking at the top-tier PCIe 4.0 drives. Two contenders that consistently top the charts are the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 and the Samsung 980 Pro. Both drives offer blazing-fast speeds and impressive performance, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve deep into the specs, performance, features, and price of these two powerhouse SSDs to help you make an informed decision.

Performance: A Close Race

Both the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 and the Samsung 980 Pro boast impressive performance figures, thanks to their PCIe 4.0 interface and advanced controllers. The Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4, with its Phison E18 controller and 3D TLC NAND flash memory, delivers sequential read speeds of up to 7000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 6850 MB/s. The Samsung 980 Pro, powered by the Samsung Elpis controller and V-NAND flash memory, achieves even higher sequential read speeds of up to 7000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 5000 MB/s.
While the Samsung 980 Pro edges out the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 in sequential write speeds, the difference is relatively minor. Both drives deliver incredibly fast performance that surpasses even the most demanding applications, from gaming and video editing to content creation and data transfer.

Features: More Than Just Speed

Beyond raw speed, both SSDs offer a range of features that enhance their performance and reliability. The Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 features a built-in heatsink that helps to keep the drive cool under heavy workloads, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring sustained performance. The Samsung 980 Pro, on the other hand, relies on a smaller heatsink that is more aesthetically integrated into the drive’s design.
Both drives also offer advanced features like error correction codes (ECC) and wear leveling to ensure data integrity and extend the lifespan of the drive. The Samsung 980 Pro includes Samsung‘s proprietary Dynamic Thermal Guard technology, which automatically adjusts performance to maintain optimal operating temperatures.

Capacity and Pricing: Finding the Sweet Spot

Both the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 and the Samsung 980 Pro are available in a range of capacities, catering to different storage needs. The Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 comes in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB options, while the Samsung 980 Pro is available in 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities.
In terms of pricing, the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 generally offers a more competitive price point compared to the Samsung 980 Pro, especially at higher capacities. This makes the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 a compelling choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize performance and value.

Endurance and Warranty: Peace of Mind

The Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 boasts a TBW (Terabytes Written) rating of 1200 TBW for the 1TB model, 2400 TBW for the 2TB model, and 4800 TBW for the 4TB model. The Samsung 980 Pro, however, offers a higher TBW rating of 1200 TBW for the 500GB model, 2400 TBW for the 1TB model, 6000 TBW for the 2TB model, and 12000 TBW for the 4TB model. This means the Samsung 980 Pro is designed to withstand heavier workloads and offer a longer lifespan.
Both drives come with a 5-year warranty, providing you with peace of mind and assurance that your investment is protected.

Final Verdict: The Choice Depends on Your Needs

Choosing between the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 and the Samsung 980 Pro ultimately comes down to your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a high-performance SSD at a more affordable price point, the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 is an excellent choice. It delivers exceptional performance and features, making it a great value for money.
However, if you demand the absolute best in terms of endurance and longevity, the Samsung 980 Pro is the clear winner. Its higher TBW rating and advanced Dynamic Thermal Guard technology make it a more reliable and long-lasting option, especially for professional use or demanding workloads.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 and the Samsung 980 Pro are top contenders in the PCIe 4.0 SSD market, there are other excellent options worth considering. Drives like the WD Black SN850, Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus, and Corsair MP600 Pro XT offer similar performance and features, providing you with more choices to explore.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Is the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 compatible with my motherboard?
A: The Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 requires a motherboard with a PCIe 4.0 slot to achieve its full potential. If your motherboard only supports PCIe 3.0, the drive will still function but at slower speeds.
Q: Which drive is better for gaming?
A: Both drives offer exceptional performance for gaming. However, the Samsung 980 Pro’s higher TBW rating makes it a slightly better choice for gamers who frequently install and uninstall games, potentially reducing wear and tear on the drive.
Q: Can I use either drive for a boot drive?
A: Both the Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4 and the Samsung 980 Pro are excellent choices for boot drives. Their fast speeds and low latency will significantly improve boot times and overall system responsiveness.
Q: Are there any significant differences in noise levels between the two drives?
A: Both drives are generally quiet, with minimal noise levels. The Gigabyte Aorus NVMe Gen4’s heatsink might generate slightly more noise under heavy workloads, but it’s still relatively quiet compared to other SSDs.
Q: Which drive is better for video editing?
A: Both drives are capable of handling demanding video editing applications. The Samsung 980 Pro’s higher TBW rating and sustained write speeds make it a slightly better choice for professional video editors who work with large files and require consistent performance.