TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z QLC
QLC NAND Flash Technology | SLC Caching Algorithm | High-Capacity OptionsIntroduction
The TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z QLC SSD emerges as a budget-oriented storage solution targeting users seeking high-capacity SATA SSDs without premium pricing. Positioned as an entry-level drive for gaming and general computing, it leverages quad-level cell (QLC) NAND flash to deliver large storage capacities at competitive prices. With the growing demand for affordable terabyte-scale storage in gaming laptops, legacy systems, and secondary storage setups, the Vulcan Z QLC aims to bridge the gap between mechanical hard drives and high-performance NVMe solutions.
Product Overview
The Vulcan Z QLC is a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD available in 2TB and 4TB configurations. Designed for users upgrading from traditional hard drives or expanding storage in older systems, it employs a DRAM-less architecture with SLC caching to balance cost and performance. The drive targets budget-conscious gamers, content archivists, and users of SATA-limited devices requiring reliable bulk storage.
Key Features
QLC NAND Flash Technology
The drive uses quad-level cell NAND flash, allowing higher storage densities at lower costs compared to TLC SSDs. This enables its flagship 4TB configuration while maintaining compatibility with SATA III interfaces.
SLC Caching Algorithm
A dynamic SLC cache accelerates write operations by temporarily storing data in single-level cell mode. This mitigates QLC's inherent write-speed limitations during short bursts of activity, though sustained writes eventually revert to native QLC speeds.
High-Capacity Options
With 4TB maximum capacity, the Vulcan Z QLC provides ample space for game libraries, media collections, and archival data while remaining cost-effective per gigabyte compared to smaller TLC drives.
Performance Analysis
Sequential Speeds
The SSD delivers sequential read/write speeds up to 550/510 MB/s, matching SATA III interface limits. These speeds quadruple traditional HDD performance, enabling faster game installations and large file transfers.
Random Performance
Random 4K read/write operations measure approximately 70K/90K IOPS, suitable for basic multitasking and application loading. The DRAM-less design causes slightly higher latency compared to DRAM-equipped SATA SSDs during heavy random workloads.
Thermal Management
Passive thermal management through its aluminum casing ensures stable operation under typical consumer workloads. The absence of moving parts eliminates cooling requirements for light to moderate use cases.
Compatibility
Desktops and Laptops
The 2.5-inch form factor and SATA III interface ensure broad compatibility with legacy and modern systems. It functions as a primary boot drive for older PCs or secondary storage in newer builds lacking M.2 slots. Installation requires standard SATA data/power cables without additional drivers.
Advantages and Limitations
Strengths
Cost Efficiency: Provides 4TB storage at approximately 30% lower cost per GB than comparable TLC SATA SSDs.
Capacity Scaling: Doubles the maximum capacity of most budget SATA SSDs, ideal for media hoarders and indie game collectors.
Constraints
Endurance Limitations: Rated for 600TBW (2TB) and 900TBW (4TB), making it less suitable for write-intensive tasks like video editing or database workloads.
Sustained Write Speed Drop: Prolonged file transfers exceeding the SLC cache capacity reduce write speeds to 90-120 MB/s, slower than 7200RPM HDDs.
Conclusion
The TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z QLC SSD excels as a high-capacity, low-cost storage upgrade for SATA-dependent systems. While unsuitable for write-heavy professional applications or cutting-edge gaming rigs, it provides exceptional value for budget builds, secondary storage pools, and legacy device upgrades. Recommended for users prioritizing storage quantity over peak performance in general computing and casual gaming scenarios.
Works Cited
“T-Force Vulcan Z QLC SSD 4TB.” TEAMGROUP, www.teamgroupinc.com/en/product-detail/ssd/T-FORCE/vulcan-z-qlc/vulcan-z-qlc-T253TY004T0C101/.
“TeamGroup T-Force Vulcan Z QLC Review: Expansive Storage on a Budget.” Dutchiee TV, www.dutchiee.tv/news/teamgroup-t-force-vulcan-z-qlc-review-expansive-storage-on-a-budget/.
Valich, Theo. “Team Group T-FORCE Vulcan Z 2 TB 2.5” SSD Review.” TechPowerUp, www.techpowerup.com/review/team-group-t-force-vulcan-z-1-tb-2-5-ssd/15.html.
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