Customer Ratings & Reviews

INTRO The Western Digital SN770 is the latest WD / SanDisk entry into what I would consider the mainstream NVMe SSD market. I say mainstream because there are parts of the drive that exude premium / high-end features, like its amazing throughput and things that make it seem more entry-level, like its DRAM-less configuration. I’m sure there are many of you, who like me, who remembers the days of horrible performance from DRAM-less SSD’s, especially DRAM-less SATA SSD’s. Manufacturer’s cut corners to get the cost of their drives down. While they succeeded in reducing costs, they also succeeded in reducing the performance of the drive and making the user experience painful, sometimes nearly as sad as an old school 5400 rpm drive. Those of us that worked on and upgraded computers during this time, quickly learned the hard way how important a properly designed and implemented cache system is to a drive. But, like everything else, times change. This go ‘round, Western Digital, changed the game. This is the 1st DRAM-less drive I’ve used that is as good, or better than any other DRAM equipped drives on the market. So much so, I would easily recommend this drive up against my Samsung 970’s and 980’s. Whoa!! Wait! What?? SYSTEM CONFIGURATION My test rig is modest Asus Zenbook 15. It has an 11th generation Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM. In my testing, the only thing that hampered the WD 770 was the laptop’s PCIe Gen 3.0 x 4 interface. After installing the drive, I proceeded to install a fresh copy of Windows 11, all the latest updates from Microsoft, including drivers, and the Western Digital Dashboard. The Dashboard is WD’s version of the Samsung Magician software. It monitors drive parameters, including SMART status, temps, writes, reads, etc. The WD Dashboard is slick looking, but still lacks the overall polish and refinement that the Magician software brings to the table. The 770 is fast! The limiting factor in the drive’s performance is the PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe interface of my Asus. Even with the prior generation’s specs, the Asus managed impressive results. Using the AS SSD benchmarking software, I recorded speeds as follows: Sequential Read: 2686 MB/s Sequential Write: 2454 MB/s Random Access Times of less than .03ms. Excellent performance. The drive is speedy and responsive. Again, while these numbers are not Earth shattering, it is merely the limitations of the laptop’s motherboard. This WD 770 is capable of speeds exceeding 5100 MB/s. Those speeds were unheard of just a short time ago. DRAM-Less Design Like I stated earlier, this is the first DRAM-less drive that I would recommend to PC enthusiasts, be they gamers or content creators. How did WD achieve these impressive results? Pouring through a few white papers and internet reviews, revealed that the WD drive utilizes the system’s Host Memory Buffer (HMB). In a nutshell, the drive uses a small portion of the computer’s RAM as its own. This helps to dramatically increase throughput and IOPS. Western Digital did a great job at optimizing this drive’s firmware. I replaced a 500GB Intel Optane drive with this WD 770. Even though the Optane drive had 32GB of Optane memory for DRAM, this WD 770 makes it look bad. There was absolutely nothing I tried that didn’t work quicker or snappier on the WD 770. Whether it be application launching, browsing, content creation, content rendering, gaming, etc. it all seemed much snappier and the laptop overall happier with the Western Digital drive. I was never once able to completely fill the cache to where the drive slowed. Though I don’t have the software to officially measure it, the drive always seemed to recover from heavy use very quickly. NEGATIVES The only real negative that I can think of regarding this drive is that because its firmware relies on the host’s HMB to cache, it makes it unsuitable, or less than suitable for the PS5, as it has no provision to utilize its own memory as the DRAM. I’m not sure how this would ultimately impact the drive’s performance in a PS5, though on paper the WD does meet the minimum specs for use. FINAL THOUGHTS This 770 is a great drive. Though not quite as fast as my beloved Samsung 980 Pro, it has fully changed my mind about how a DRAM-less drive performs. If only all drives performed as well as the 770, life would be much better. While my 980 Pro overall performs better than my 770, there is one thing that the 980 can’t, or doesn’t compete with; price. At this price point, I would have no reservations buying a WD 770 over a 980 any day of the week. Add to this a solid 5 year warranty and this drive is a no-brainer. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

I purchased this well over a year ago due to my previous SSD failing and man this was a much needed upgrade! The extra storage is one thing but the speed of this one compared to my gen 3 NVMe was noticeable immediately! My only issue is that it doesn't come with any thermal pads to keep it cool but I was able to reuse my old one from the previous SSD.

Performance: SSDs redefine the notion of speed in computing. With lightning-fast read and write speeds, tasks that once seemed laborious now execute in the blink of an eye. Whether you're booting up your system, loading a heavy application, or transferring large files, SSDs excel at delivering a seamless experience. The difference in performance between SSDs and traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) is night and day, making SSDs an indispensable asset for anyone seeking top-tier performance. Reliability: One of the most significant advantages of SSDs lies in their durability and reliability. Unlike HDDs, which rely on spinning disks and mechanical parts, SSDs utilize flash memory, making them less susceptible to physical damage. This inherent robustness translates to greater peace of mind for users, knowing that their data is safe and secure. Efficiency: SSDs not only offer superior performance but also contribute to a more energy-efficient computing experience. With lower power consumption compared to HDDs, SSDs help extend battery life in laptops and reduce electricity costs in desktops. Additionally, SSDs generate less heat, resulting in quieter operation and a cooler overall system. Form Factor: SSDs come in various form factors, ranging from the standard 2.5-inch drives to the more compact M.2 form factor, which integrates directly onto the motherboard. This versatility allows users to choose the form factor that best suits their needs, whether it be maximizing storage capacity or minimizing space requirements. Price: While SSDs have historically been more expensive than HDDs on a per-gigabyte basis, the gap in price has significantly narrowed in recent years. With advancements in technology and manufacturing processes, SSDs now offer excellent value for money, especially considering their unparalleled performance and reliability benefits. Conclusion: In conclusion, Solid State Drives represent the epitome of storage innovation, offering unmatched performance, reliability, efficiency, and versatility. Whether you're a casual user looking to boost your system's speed or a professional seeking the ultimate computing experience, investing in an SSD is a decision you won't regret. With SSDs, slow loading times and sluggish performance become relics of the past, replaced by a new era of speed and efficiency.

The WD - BLACK SN770 1TB Internal SSD PCIe Gen 4 x4 is a storage powerhouse that brings together speed, reliability, and impressive performance in a compact form factor. As an avid gamer, content creator, or professional who demands lightning-fast storage, this SSD is an excellent choice that will take your computing experience to new heights. One of the standout features of the WD - BLACK SN770 is its PCIe Gen 4 x4 interface, which unleashes the full potential of the latest NVMe technology. With read and write speeds that surpass its predecessors, you can expect mind-blowing transfer rates and near-instantaneous data access. Whether you're loading large game files, editing high-resolution videos, or running resource-intensive applications, the SN770 delivers unrivaled performance that significantly reduces loading times and boosts productivity. The 1TB capacity provides ample storage space for your operating system, games, applications, and media files. It strikes a perfect balance between affordability and practicality, allowing you to store a substantial amount of data without compromising speed or sacrificing reliability. Speaking of reliability, WD is known for its high-quality storage solutions, and the BLACK SN770 lives up to that reputation. It utilizes WD's advanced controller and NAND technology, ensuring exceptional durability and longevity. This drive is built to withstand heavy workloads and extended usage, making it suitable for both gaming enthusiasts and professionals who rely on their storage devices day in and day out. Furthermore, the BLACK SN770 incorporates cutting-edge heat dissipation technology. Its built-in heatsink effectively dissipates heat during intense operations, preventing thermal throttling and maintaining optimal performance levels. This is especially crucial when pushing the limits of the SSD during prolonged gaming sessions or demanding creative tasks. Installation is a breeze with the SN770, thanks to its M.2 form factor and compatibility with most modern motherboards. The drive comes with an easy-to-follow installation guide and includes all the necessary screws, ensuring a hassle-free setup process. In terms of aesthetics, the SN770 exudes a sleek and professional look. Its black design with subtle branding blends seamlessly into any system build, whether it's a gaming rig or a professional workstation. It's an SSD that not only performs exceptionally well but also enhances the overall visual appeal of your setup. To top it all off, WD provides excellent customer support and backs the SN770 with a solid warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected. In conclusion, the WD - BLACK SN770 1TB Internal SSD PCIe Gen 4 x4 is a top-tier storage solution that exceeds expectations in terms of speed, reliability, and design. With blazing-fast performance, ample capacity, and exceptional durability, it's an investment worth making for anyone seeking the best in storage technology. Whether you're a gamer, content creator, or professional user, the SN770 will revolutionize your computing experience and deliver an unmatched level of performance that will leave you impressed time and time again.

The world of solid-state drives (SSDs) is constantly evolving, and the WD SN770 is a true testament to the cutting-edge technology available today. With its impressive performance and exceptional reliability, this drive from WD (Western Digital) is poised to revolutionize your computing experience. Let's dive into the features and performance of the WD SN770 in this comprehensive review. One of the standout features of the WD SN770 is its blazing-fast speed. Powered by PCIe Gen4 technology, this SSD delivers lightning-quick read and write speeds, effectively reducing load times and boosting overall system responsiveness. Whether you're a gamer seeking shorter game launch times or a professional working with large multimedia files, the WD SN770 ensures a seamless and fluid user experience. The drive's unrivaled speed is made possible by its cutting-edge NVMe architecture, which harnesses the full potential of PCIe Gen4. With transfer rates that far exceed those of traditional SATA-based SSDs, the WD SN770 unlocks new levels of performance and efficiency. Whether you're transferring large files, editing high-resolution videos, or running resource-intensive applications, the WD SN770 won't skip a beat. Furthermore, the WD SN770 comes in a range of capacities to suit your storage needs. Whether you opt for the 500GB, 1TB, or 2TB model, you can rest assured that you'll have ample space for your growing collection of files and applications. This flexibility allows you to customize your setup without compromising on speed or capacity. In terms of reliability, WD is renowned for its commitment to quality, and the WD SN770 lives up to these expectations. With advanced SSD health monitoring tools and built-in thermal throttling mechanisms, the drive ensures optimal performance and longevity, even under heavy workloads. You can confidently rely on the WD SN770 to safeguard your data and deliver consistent performance over time. Installation and setup are straightforward with the WD SN770. The drive is compatible with a wide range of systems, and the included WD SSD Dashboard software provides user-friendly tools to monitor performance, optimize settings, and update firmware with ease. This intuitive software enhances the overall user experience, making it accessible to both tech enthusiasts and newcomers alike. While the WD SN770 offers exceptional performance and reliability, it's important to note that its full potential can only be realized when paired with a motherboard that supports PCIe Gen4. If you have an older system that only supports PCIe Gen3, the WD SN770 will still provide a significant boost in speed, but it won't reach its maximum capabilities. Be sure to check your system specifications before making a purchase.

NVME drives are some of the simplest drives to install as long as your motherboard supports them and pretty much every motherboard in the last 3-4 years has at least one spot. You'll be up and running within a matter of minutes with no cables to run and only 1 screw to hold everything in place. In terms of performance, WD continues the global trend of offering NVMe drives without a DRAM cache and instead uses a portion of their TLC drive in SLC mode to offer faster write speeds. They're doing a great job as even on Gen3 PCI-E, this drive blows my Samsung 980 1TB out of the water. I saw a 12-25% increase in almost every read/write test except for random writes, and even that test was neck and neck. The warranty on this drive will likely outlast the rest of the components on your machine unless you're using the drive for cache optimization in a server setup and it's of small enough form factory that you likely will not have interference when installing it in machines with tight space tolerances or that can only handle single side NVMe drives. All in all, if you are still running anything from a M.2 Sata drive to a mechanical hard drive or slower, this will greatly speed your machine up and for the price is a good buy.

I’ve been using the WD Black SN770 1TB PCIe Gen 4 x4 SSD for a while now, and it’s been an impressive upgrade. The read and write speeds are excellent (up to 5150 MB/s and 4900 MB/s), making it perfect for gaming and heavy workloads. Games load almost instantly, and large files transfer seamlessly. The SSD is also energy-efficient, but under heavy workloads, it can get a bit warm — nothing a good cooling setup can’t handle. Overall, it’s a reliable and fast drive with a great price-to-performance ratio. Highly recommended for gamers and content creators!

Works great and was easy to Install. Runs very berry scary quick

Western Digital Black is an established product line that serves professionals and gamers alike providing both with fast and reliable storage solutions. SN 770 is an upgrade of the great SN 750 series of SSD drives that adds PCIe Gen 4 support and allows read speeds up to 5,150 MBps for sequential reads 4,900 MBps for sequential writes 740,000 IOPS random reads and 800,000 IOPS random writes. Disk does not come with on-board DRAM cache but allocates 64Mb Host Memory Buffer (HMB) for storing SSD mapping tables. Kioxia BiCS5 TLC memory endurance is guaranteed at 600Tb for the 5 year period. Disk runs cool thanks for it's advanced power management (which can be temporary disabled for the maximum performance - aka Game Mode), supports TRIM, SMART data reporting and secure erase capability via the Format NVM command, but it lacks hardware AES encryption support. Overall - this disk is great for either laptops or desktops (WD has a variant with the heat sink specifically for the desktop use) and would be a great choice for gamers.

Got this for Black Friday. The performance at that price was a real deal. My main board has toolless M.2 slots, which made the install simple. The drive doesn't have a heat sink or spreader, so the main board slot cover fit without any issues. If your main board doesn't have one, you may want to consider an after market option. The only problem I had was that UPS lost the drive. The Best Buy agent I talked to saw the shipment had been flagged and sent out a replacement. I didn't have any other drive to test my build, so that delayed everything for a week. In the end, both arrived on the same day. Then Best Buy sent me a notice to return one of them. The first package, a manila bubble mailer, looked like crap so I send it back as is, unopened. Anything that's wrong with it was going to be on UPS, not me. Best Buy has some good buys, but I wouldn't trust having anything shipped from them again.

Great value nvme, very fast and great for storing games, be careful when using for windows OS due to it not having cache.

Easy to install, reliable SSD, great speed, especially for value it’s one of your best picks

This Internal SSD worked GREAT. My computer speed increased tremendously with this installation. Good product, reasonably priced.

The WD_BLACK SN770 1TB delivers fast and consistent performance for a Gen 4 SSD. It’s perfect for gaming and everyday tasks, with quick load times and smooth multitasking. Installation was simple, and the PCIe Gen 4 x4 interface really makes a difference compared to older drives. It doesn’t have a DRAM cache, but you’d barely notice in real-world usage — it still feels snappy and responsive. Great value from a brand I trust. Highly recommended for anyone building or upgrading a system!

Perchased this M.2 when my OS went full death mode. Unfortunately I lost more than I'd like to admit so I wised up and got me another WD Black for a boot drive only. WD Black is an excellent product and I've been using them the past couple years with no issues. Super fast and reliable at a great price. I wouldn't hesitate to buy one if your in the market for a good all around M.2 storage solution.

I was nervous because it was a lot cheaper then the other internal storages I was looking at for ps5 but I figured I’d just return it if anything. I don’t know anything about gaming consoles hence it was for my son but I was able to install it watching a YouTube video and it works perfectly as it should! So I’d definitely suggest if you looking to save a little compared to the other brand

Not much to say, it works and is relatively fast, easy installation. I find WD drives to be reliable, you need to add your own heat sink if you want that, The Acronis True Image for Western Digital is a great piece of no cost software for backups

Worked and fits my mother board just fine. Honestly if i didnt use my pc for everything 1Tb would be fine for a normal user but i have almost 10tb worth of harddrives in my pc but the difference of a ssd and hdd is that ssd loads everything faster.

I build custom computers for a living and WD Black is the INDUSTRY STANDARD for lightning fast, reliable and longterm storage! Worth every penny. You absolutely will NOT be disappointed. Do yourself a favor and get this drive!

Great and easy to use, needed an extra accessory for use on PS5 but no issues from the system detecting nor using it. Speeds are great, games load instantly.