AMD introduced the PCIe 4.0 SSD era with the launch of 500-series AM4 boards nearly three years ago. Since then, the market is flooded with speedy PCIe 4.0 SSDs for enhancing your computer build.
Overview
Today, we’re diving into one of the popular choices out there: TEAMGROUP’s T-Force Cardea Zero Z440. We’ve previously praised TEAMGROUP for their RAM kits, so we’re excited to see if this NVMe SSD lives up to the brand’s reputation. Here’s our detailed review of the Cardea Zero Z440.
Technical Specifications
Before we get into the performance details, let’s check out some key specs of this SSD:
– Form Factor: M.2 Type-2280
– Dimensions: 3.15” x 0.87” x 0.09” (80 x 22 x 3.5mm)
– Weight: 0.32 oz (9g)
– Bus Version: PCIe 4.0 x4
– Capacities: 1TB, 2TB (tested)
– NAND Flash: TLC BiCS
– Controller: Phison PS5016-E16
– Encryption: AES-256
– Total Bytes Written (TBW): 3,600TB
– Max Sequential Read/Write: 5,000MBps / 4,000MBps
– Random 4K Read/Write: 750,000 IOPS / 750,000 IOPS
– Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF): 1.7 million hours
– Warranty: Five-year limited
These specs highlight the drive’s reliable first-gen Phison E16 controller and durable 96-layer 3D BiCS4 TLC NAND flash. The 3,600TB TBW and five-year warranty also show TEAMGROUP’s confidence in the drive’s longevity.
Our Experience
We got our hands on the 2TB version of the Z440, but it’s also available in a 1TB variant. Both versions have the same impressive read/write speeds of 5,000MBps and 4,400MBps, respectively. Even though a wider range of capacities would’ve been nice, the existing options should meet most users’ needs.
Pricing
At around $260 for the 2TB model, the Cardea Zero Z440 is competitively priced. This is about the same as a full-priced MP600 yet cheaper than Samsung’s 980 PRO. While pricier drives offer higher maximum speeds, the slight performance differences are hardly noticeable for average users, including those doing video production or content creation. Overall, this SSD offers excellent value for its price.
Minor Drawback
One downside is the lack of proprietary disk monitoring utilities from TEAMGROUP. You’ll need to rely on third-party software to monitor the drive’s health and usage.
Packaging and Presentation
The SSD comes in an eye-catching box, featuring the disk on a striking red and white background. The packaging includes info about its capacity and thermal label efficiency. You’ll also find simple visual installation instructions and further details on performance and working environments on the back.
Removing the drive from its packaging can be a bit tricky due to the firm blister pack, but once it’s out, you’ll appreciate its sleek look. The black and copper thermal label, made of copper and graphene, is one of the main appeals. This design allows it to fit under existing motherboard heatsinks, offering flexibility in heat management.
Built-in Heat Management
This slim thermal label claims to reduce working temperatures by 9°C, allowing the drive to operate without thermal throttling even if the slot lacks a heatsink. Alternatively, it fits well under most motherboard heatsinks for added protection.
In conclusion, TEAMGROUP’s T-Force Cardea Zero Z440 delivers outstanding performance and reliability at a reasonable price, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their storage.