Is the WD_BLACK SN850X a good gaming SSD?
It is one of the best. The SN850X is a fast PCIe Gen4 drive with a Game Mode feature, capacities up to 8TB, an optional heatsink, and a 5-year warranty. It is a top pick for gaming PCs and, with a heatsink, the PS5; the officially licensed SN850P is the same drive in a PS5-styled cooler.
In real gaming it performs like the Samsung 990 Pro and Crucial T500, so the decision comes down to price per terabyte, the 8TB option and whether you want the factory heatsink.
Capacities and versions
| Version | Capacities | Read | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| SN850X | 1TB / 2TB / 4TB / 8TB | 7,300 MB/s | Gaming PC |
| SN850X Heatsink | 1TB / 2TB / 4TB | 7,300 MB/s | PS5, warm builds |
| SN850P (licensed) | 1TB / 2TB / 4TB | 7,300 MB/s | Guaranteed PS5 fit |
Which to buy
- 2TB is the value sweet spot; 4TB and 8TB suit big libraries (8TB is one of few consumer options).
- PS5: buy the Heatsink edition or the licensed SN850P.
- vs 990 Pro / T500: same in-game feel; choose on price and capacity, and pick the SN850X if you want 8TB.
Pros, cons and the bottom line
Bottom line: an excellent, versatile Gen4 pick, and the go-to if you want 8TB or a guaranteed PS5 fit. Otherwise buy whichever of the SN850X, 990 Pro and T500 is cheapest per terabyte.
- Pros: top Gen4 speed, 8TB option, heatsink and licensed PS5 versions, 5-year warranty.
- Cons: not Gen5; premium pricing at launch.