Overview

The Samsung SSD 870 EVO 250GB is the latest model in the long-standing EVO series, known for its reliability and consistent performance. It uses the SATA 6Gbps interface with a 2.5-inch form factor, making it compatible with a wide range of desktops and laptops. Sequential read speeds reach 560MB/s and write speeds hit 530MB/s, topping the SATA SSD performance charts.
Samsung's Intelligent TurboWrite technology accelerates burst transfers, making everyday tasks like OS booting and file copying noticeably snappier. This drive is positioned as an entry-to-mid-range storage solution, ideal for office work, light creative tasks, or upgrading an old HDD-based system. The included Magician software simplifies firmware updates, performance tuning, and drive health monitoring.
Although NVMe SSDs offer dramatically higher speeds, the 870 EVO remains a go-to choice for systems limited to SATA or for users who prioritize compatibility and long-term stability over raw throughput.

Compatibility Guide

The 870 EVO uses the standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor. It fits most desktops (bracket may be needed for 3.5-inch bays) and laptops with a 2.5-inch drive slot. Ensure your PC's SATA controller is set to AHCI mode for best performance. The drive requires a SATA data cable and a SATA power connector (included with most PSUs).
It works with any motherboard that has SATA ports, regardless of age. However, very thin notebooks (e.g., some ultrabooks) cannot accommodate the 2.5-inch thickness. Always check the physical clearance before purchase.

Product Info

Launched in 2021, the 870 EVO 250GB typically retails for around ¥3,000–¥5,000 JPY in Japan. It carries a 5-year limited warranty or until the TBW rating (150 TB) is exceeded, whichever comes first. Power consumption is minimal: ~0.04W idle and up to 2.5W active.
Market positioning: This is an entry-to-mid-level SATA SSD. It competes with drives like the Crucial MX500 and WD Blue 3D NAND, but Samsung's proprietary controller and firmware tend to offer better sustained performance and reliability. The Magician software suite adds significant value for managing the drive.

Best Use Cases

  1. Reviving an older laptop with a SATA HDD
    If you have a 2016-or-earlier notebook that still uses a mechanical hard drive, swapping to the 870 EVO will cut boot times from minutes to seconds. The swap is straightforward for most models.
    Who should skip: Anyone with an available M.2 slot should consider NVMe instead.
  2. Building a secondary PC or a lightweight file server
    250GB is enough for the OS plus essential applications, and the low power draw makes it ideal for always-on systems. Samsung's reliability track record inspires confidence for 24/7 use.
    Who should skip: Users needing large storage (1TB+) should opt for the higher-capacity 870 EVO or QVO series.
  3. Budget-conscious OS drive for a strictly SATA-only system
    For older motherboards without M.2, this drive offers the best price-to-performance for everyday responsiveness.
    Who should skip: If your board has even a single M.2 slot, save up for an NVMe drive for much faster performance.

Things to Consider

The biggest drawback is speed: at ~560MB/s, the 870 EVO is far slower than any NVMe SSD (3,000–7,000MB/s). This limitation matters for large file transfers, video editing, or modern game loading. Additionally, 250GB fills up quickly after installing the OS, a few programs, and games.
Compared to rivals like the Crucial MX500, the 870 EVO often commands a slight price premium but offers better sustained write performance and a richer software ecosystem. However, if price is the only consideration, the MX500 can be a valid alternative.
Also, this drive uses a SATA connector, which means a separate cable and power run inside your case. If your system already has an M.2 slot free, you will get much better value from an NVMe SSD for roughly the same cost.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the 870 EVO in a PS5?
A: Yes, as an external USB SSD to store PS4/PS5 games, but not for internal expansion (PS5 requires NVMe M.2 Gen4). It works great for cold storage.
Q: How long does the warranty last?
A: Samsung offers a 5-year limited warranty, or until the TBW (150 TB) limit is reached, whichever occurs first. You can monitor drive health via Samsung Magician.
Q: Is the 870 EVO better than the Kingston A400?
A: Yes, in almost every metric—sequential speeds, random IOPS, TBW, and included software. The price difference is small, so the 870 EVO is the superior choice.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: サムスン(SAMSUNG)
  • Seller: Amazon US
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon US
  • ASIN: B08PC3PGZM
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.