WD_Black SN7100 NVMe SSD 1TB

Overview

The WD_Black SN7100 is a 1TB Gen4 PCIe NVMe SSD in the M.2 2280 form factor, rated up to 7,250 MB/s read and 6,900 MB/s write, built for gaming laptops and handheld gaming devices.

Western Digital notes this model has been succeeded by a newer SanDisk-branded generation, so buyers should confirm they are getting the SN7100 specifically if brand continuity matters. Manufactured by Sandisk under license from Western Digital, it targets the M.2 2280 slot common in gaming laptops and handhelds like the Steam Deck or ROG Ally, where the stated power efficiency gains matter more than in a desktop.

• 1TB capacity, Gen4 PCIe, M.2 2280 form factor
• Up to 7,250 MB/s read, 6,900 MB/s write
• TLC 3D NAND for endurance
• Built for laptops and handheld gaming devices

Who it's for

Fits gamers upgrading a laptop or handheld gaming device who want faster load times and Gen4 PCIe speeds in the standard M.2 2280 size. Not the pick for anyone who specifically wants the newest SanDisk-branded successor model or needs a form factor other than M.2 2280.

Pros and cons

Performance notes

The PCIe Gen4 interface and TLC 3D NAND deliver the rated 7,250 MB/s read and 6,900 MB/s write speeds on the 1 to 2TB capacities, which chiefly benefits large game load times and file transfers rather than everyday tasks like web browsing. Improved power efficiency over the prior generation is aimed specifically at handheld gaming devices, where battery life drops quickly under sustained read and write loads. The WD_Black Dashboard software, Windows only, lets owners monitor drive health and confirm firmware is current.

Specifications

Closest rivals on specs

Samsung 990 EVO NVMe SSD 1TB

SanDisk Optimus 5100 NVMe SSD 1TB

• Hard Disk Form Factor 3.1 vs 2.5 inches (+24%)

Crucial P310 NVMe Gen4 SSD 1TB

• Item Weight 0.01 vs 0.03 pounds (-67%)