FanXiang S660
M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe Gen 4
Introduction
The FanXiang S660 is a high-performance PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 solid-state drive that offers impressive speeds and storage capacity for tech enthusiasts and gamers. This comprehensive report examines the key features, performance, compatibility, and overall value proposition of the S660 in the current SSD market.
Product Overview
The FanXiang S660 is a PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD designed to provide fast storage solutions for desktop computers, laptops, and gaming consoles. Available in capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB, this drive caters to users seeking high-speed data access and ample storage space.
Key Features
Maxio MAP1602 Controller
The S660 utilizes the Maxio MAP1602 controller, which enables efficient data management and contributes to the drive's overall performance.
TLC NAND Flash Memory
Equipped with Triple-Level Cell (TLC) NAND flash memory, the S660 offers a balance between performance, endurance, and cost-effectiveness.
PCIe 4.0 x4 Interface
The drive leverages the PCIe 4.0 x4 interface, allowing for significantly faster data transfer rates compared to previous-generation SSDs.
Performance Analysis
Sequential Speeds
The FanXiang S660 boasts impressive sequential read and write speeds. With rated speeds of up to 4800 MB/s for reads and 4200 MB/s for writes, this drive offers substantial performance improvements over SATA SSDs and even some PCIe 3.0 NVMe drives.
Random Performance
Random read and write performance, measured in Input/Output Operations Per Second (IOPS), is crucial for system responsiveness and application loading times. The S660 demonstrates strong random performance, with 4K random read speeds of up to 58.18 MB/s and write speeds of 173.64 MB/s.
Thermal Management
Effective thermal management is essential for maintaining consistent performance in high-speed SSDs. The FanXiang S660 comes with an optional heatsink, which can be installed to help dissipate heat and prevent thermal throttling during intensive operations.
Compatibility
PlayStation 5
The FanXiang S660 is compatible with the PlayStation 5 console, making it an excellent choice for gamers looking to expand their storage capacity. When installed in a PS5, the drive achieves read speeds of approximately 4.7 GB/s, which meets Sony's recommended performance requirements for smooth gameplay and fast loading times.
Steam Deck and Handheld PCs
The S660's M.2 2280 form factor makes it suitable for use in the Steam Deck and other handheld gaming PCs. Its high capacity options and fast read speeds can significantly enhance the gaming experience on these portable devices.
Advantages and Limitations
Strengths
High sequential read and write speeds
Large capacity options up to 4TB
Competitive pricing compared to similar PCIe 4.0 SSDs
Included heatsink for improved thermal management
Compatibility with popular gaming consoles and handheld PCs
Constraints
Performance may be limited on systems without PCIe 4.0 support
Lack of DRAM cache may impact sustained write performance in some scenarios
Limited brand recognition compared to more established SSD manufacturers
Potential firmware optimization issues in early production runs
Conclusion
The FanXiang S660 PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD offers an attractive combination of performance, capacity, and value. Its high sequential speeds and compatibility with gaming consoles make it a compelling choice for gamers and tech enthusiasts seeking to upgrade their storage solutions. While it may face some limitations in sustained write scenarios and brand recognition, the S660 presents a strong value proposition in the competitive SSD market.
For users with PCIe 4.0-capable systems or those looking to expand their console storage, the FanXiang S660 is a worthy consideration. Its balance of speed, capacity, and affordability makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from gaming and content creation to general-purpose computing.
