Testing
The following system was used to test the SSD
– Processor: Intel i9 9900K @ 5GHz
– Motherboard: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming X
– RAM: GOODRAM IRDM PRO 16GB DDR4-3600MHz
– GPU: MSI GeForce RTX 2070 Super Gaming X Trio
– SSD: Crucial MX500
– Mass Storage: GOODRAM IRDM PRO GEN.2 1TB
– CPU Cooler: SilverStone Permafrost PF240W-ARGB
– PSU: Seasonic Snow Silent 750W Platinum
– Case: be quiet! Silent Base 802 White
To test the SSD, the following software was used:
– ATTO Disk Benchmark,
– CrystalDiskMark 8,
– Shadow of the Tomb Raider;
– Windows File Copy.
In order to obtain a precise result each test was performed three times.
CrystalDiskMark 8 – Read
CrystalDiskMark 8 – Write
ATTO Disk Benchmark Read
ATTO Disk Benchmark Write
Shadow of the Tomb Raider – Level Loading
Windows File Copy
Temperature
Final thoughts
The Silicon Power P34A60 1TB is an affordable M.2 SSD that has a good performance. However, if you are looking for an SSD that can sustain a good speed while doing a large file transfer, then you must look elsewhere. While the speed of the P34A60 1TB is good, once the cache is filled the speed will lower significantly. This is the main disadvantage of not using a DRAM based cache.
The main advantage of the P34A60 1TB is the competitive price, the 1TB model of the P34A60 can be bought for around 100 USD or EUR. A price which makes the P34A60 worth using as many other M.2 SSDs are well above this price.
The thermal performance is good, the maximum temperature reached by the P34A60 1TB was 70°C, with the ambient temperature set at 26°C.
The Silicon Power P34A60 1TB is sold with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty, which is plenty for a mid-range M.2 SSD. However, more than likely, you will never have to use the warranty as the internal components of this SSD are of high quality.
In conclusion, the Silicon Power P34A60 1TB is a good mid-range M.2 SSD that has a good performance for daily usage. The temperature is kept in check thanks to the label that acts like a heatsink and the usage of good quality components. However, while the performance of the SSD is good, large file transfers are to be avoided. This due to the P34A60 1TB not using a DRAM cache to help maintain the high speeds.
