ADATA launch premium gaming SSD and enclosure

ADATA Technology has just launched the XPG SX950 SSD and its accompanying gaming-styled EX500 drive enclosure.

Looking for some speedy storage that has the option of going anywhere you need it? Well, the XPG SX950 is loaded with up to 960GB of 3D MLC NAND and driven by a SMI controller.

With its custom ADATA PCB (printed circuit board) and extra-strict chip sorting process, this is an SSD that can handle prolonged high demand.

Performance reaches 560MB/s read and 530MB/s write.

Partner that with the EX500 and you have some mean portable storage. The EX500, bearing the signature XPG look, is ideal for gamers and case modders. Sporting a textured enclosure with a vibrant yet aggressive feel.

The enclosure packs a spacer and bracket for easy install on desktops and notebooks.

For users that would like to use the SX950 as external storage, the EX500 offers a stylish, durable, and easy-install enclosure that pairs instantly with desktops, notebooks, and game consoles via high speed USB 3.1.

Check out our review of the Buffalo portable SSD

XPG SX950 SSD

Gamers enjoy the benefits of 3D NAND

ADATA is completing its transition to stacked memory, or 3D NAND.

This allows for SSDs with bigger capacities without a correlating increase in prices paid by end users. The SX950 uses durable 3D MLC (multi-level cell) NAND Flash and SMI controller.

You get the choice of 240GB, 480GB, and 960GB versions of the SX950. Not only denser (higher capacity), 3D NAND is also roughly 10% faster than 2D NAND. To the likes of you and me, the important fact here is that the the SX950 outpaces its predecessor, the SX930 –reaching 560MB/s read and 530MB/s write.

Optimised for gaming applications

The SMI controller and ADATA-designed firmware have been tested extensively with some of the most demanding PC and console titles available.

The SX950 features SLC Cache and DRAM Cache Buffer to maintain speeds and withstand high demand periods such as during asset streaming in open world games, texture streaming, and even loading times for large levels.

To prolong SSD lifespan, ADATA includes data shaping and wear leveling algorithms in the firmware. RAID Engine is supported for easy integration in drive arrays.

Complete package for easy install

Contrary to bare SSDs, the SX950 lives up to XPG standards by arriving fully loaded.

In the box you’ll find a 2.5mm spacer/riser so the SX950 can easily slide into 7mm and 9.5mm bays on ultrabooks and notebooks.

Desktop users can opt to use the included 3.5-inch bracket and install kit.

Either way, the SX950 delivers neat and quick installation on gaming desktops and notebooks. It also provides extended peace of mind with a 6-year warranty backing up its quality.

EX500: the drive enclosure for gamers

Fitting any 2.5-inch SSD/HDD, the EX500 offers an aggressively-styled enclosure aimed at passionate gamers looking for storage expansion.

Tool-free installation, secure locking, and impact-resistant construction make it ideal for gamers at home and on the go, as it delivers high speed via USB 3.1. The EX500 is “plug and game” compatible with PS4, Xbox One, and PC.