Overview

The Samsung SSD 960 EVO 250GB (model MZ-V6E250B/IT) is an NVMe SSD launched in 2016, featuring 48-layer Samsung V-NAND technology. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 3,200 MB/s and write speeds up to 1,500 MB/s, significantly outperforming SATA SSDs of its era. This drive is ideal for users looking to accelerate OS boot times, application launches, and game loading without breaking the bank.
With a compact M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe 3.0 x4 interface supporting NVMe 1.2, the 960 EVO offers a tangible performance upgrade over traditional SATA storage. The 250GB capacity is well-suited as a system drive, providing enough space for the operating system and frequently used applications.

Compatibility Guide

The Samsung 960 EVO 250GB uses the M.2 2280 form factor and requires a motherboard with an M.2 slot supporting PCIe 3.0 x4 and NVMe. Older motherboards may lack NVMe boot support, so check your BIOS/UEFI capabilities before purchasing.

  • Form factor: M.2 2280
  • Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4, NVMe 1.2
  • Supported OS: Windows 7 and later, macOS, Linux (with NVMe driver)
  • Power consumption: up to ~6W active, ~0.1W idle

Product Info

Released in November 2016, the Samsung 960 EVO 250GB originally retailed for around ¥15,000. As of October 2026, it is available on Japanese online retailers for approximately ¥42,487. The drive carries a 3-year warranty.
This SSD sits in the entry-to-mid-range NVMe segment. Its 250GB capacity is best suited for OS and application storage, not for bulk data. The key selling point is affordable access to NVMe speeds, though it lags behind modern Gen4 and Gen5 drives.

Best Use Cases

  • OS drive for budget builds: Perfect for a Windows or macOS boot drive. 250GB is enough for the OS and core apps. Not suitable for storing large game libraries or video projects.
  • NVMe upgrade on a tight budget: A noticeable upgrade from SATA SSDs. However, it cannot match the speed of current-gen NVMe SSDs.
  • Cache drive for NAS or secondary PC: Good read/write balance for caching. But the 100 TBW endurance is low for heavy write workloads.

Things to Consider

The Samsung 960 EVO 250GB is nearly a decade old, and its performance is outclassed by modern SSDs. Write speeds are particularly limited at 1,500 MB/s, and the 250GB capacity is insufficient for today's large games and media files. For a primary drive, consider at least 512GB.
Be cautious when purchasing: many listings are for imported or used units. Japanese online retailers warns that drives sold by third-party sellers may not carry domestic warranty. Always verify the seller and opt for official Samsung products when possible.

FAQ

Q: Can I use this SSD in a PS5?
A: No. The PS5 requires a PCIe 4.0 x4 SSD for internal expansion. This drive is PCIe 3.0 and will not work.
Q: What happens if I install it in a PCIe 3.0 x2 M.2 slot?
A: Performance will be capped at roughly 1,600 MB/s sequential read. Still faster than SATA, but you lose the full potential of the drive.
Q: Does it come with cloning software?
A: No. Samsung offers the free Samsung Data Migration tool on its website, but it may not support the latest OS versions.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: サムスン(SAMSUNG)
  • ASIN: B01N1PMFNU
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.