Intel 660p vs Samsung 970 EVO – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Why Do I Recommend The Samsung 970 EVO?

• The Samsung 970 EVO has 3D TLC NAND for higher endurance and more consistent sustained write performance during large file transfers, while the Intel 660p uses 3D QLC NAND.
• Samsung 970 EVO features faster sequential read speeds for quicker game loading times and large file access, while the Intel 660p has lower peak sequential read performance.
• It includes faster sequential write speeds to reduce wait times when copying or exporting large datasets, whereas the Intel 660p has slower write speeds that can drop after cache saturation.
• The Samsung 970 EVO has higher random read IOPS for smoother system responsiveness and faster application launches under multitasking loads, while the Intel 660p has lower random read performance.
• Samsung 970 EVO supports higher random write IOPS to handle frequent small file writes more efficiently in productivity workloads, while the Intel 660p delivers lower random write throughput.
• It comes with higher TBW endurance ratings for longer lifespan under write-heavy usage, whereas the Intel 660p is rated for lower endurance at similar capacities.
• The Samsung 970 EVO features more stable sustained performance for long continuous workloads like video editing and large backups, while the Intel 660p relies heavily on SLC caching that causes performance drops during extended writes.
• Samsung 970 EVO has a performance-oriented controller design for better handling of high queue-depth workloads, while the Intel 660p uses a value-focused controller optimized for cost efficiency rather than peak performance.

Maybe the Intel 660p can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Samsung 970 EVO. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

What Common Both Can Do?

• Form factor: Both drives use the M.2 2280 form factor, which is the most common size for modern NVMe SSDs. This ensures broad compatibility with desktops, laptops, and compact systems.
• Interface: Each SSD connects via PCIe 3.0 x4, allowing access to much higher bandwidth than SATA-based drives. This interface enables fast data transfers and low latency.
• NVMe support: Both models use the NVMe protocol rather than SATA. NVMe is designed specifically for solid-state storage and improves command handling efficiency.
• NVMe version: Samsung 970 EVO and Intel 660p both implement NVMe 1.3. This version adds better power management and improved performance handling over earlier NVMe revisions.
• Consumer NVMe SSD: Both products are designed for consumer and enthusiast systems rather than enterprise servers. They target everyday computing, gaming, and productivity workloads.
• Internal storage type: Each device is an internal solid-state drive. This allows direct motherboard installation without cables, improving airflow and reducing clutter.
• Boot drive support: Both SSDs fully support operating system installation and booting. This makes them suitable as primary system drives.
• DRAM cache: Samsung 970 EVO and Intel 660p both include onboard DRAM. DRAM helps store mapping tables, improving responsiveness and reducing latency during random access.
• SLC write cache: Each drive uses an SLC caching mechanism to accelerate write speeds. This improves short-burst performance during typical daily tasks.
• SMART support: Both drives support SMART monitoring features. This allows users and software tools to track drive health, temperature, and usage statistics.
• TRIM support: TRIM is supported on both SSDs to maintain performance over time. It allows the operating system to inform the drive which data blocks are no longer in use.
• AES hardware encryption: Both models include AES 256-bit hardware encryption. This enables data protection without a significant performance penalty.
• TCG Opal support: Samsung 970 EVO and Intel 660p support the TCG Opal standard. This allows compatibility with enterprise-grade disk encryption solutions.
• IEEE 1667 support: Each drive supports IEEE 1667, which is required for certain Windows-based encryption and secure authentication features.
• 3D NAND: Both SSDs use stacked 3D NAND flash memory. This design improves storage density and efficiency compared to older planar NAND.
• Low idle power states: Both drives support low-power idle modes. This helps reduce energy consumption, especially in laptops.
• Desktop compatibility: Samsung 970 EVO and Intel 660p work in standard desktop motherboards with M.2 NVMe slots. No special adapters are required.
• Laptop compatibility: Each SSD is suitable for modern laptops that support PCIe NVMe storage. This makes them viable upgrade options for portable systems.
• Firmware upgradable: Both drives allow firmware updates through manufacturer utilities. Firmware updates can improve stability, compatibility, and performance over time.