Transcend SSD230 128GB
Score: 85/100
Teamgroup PD20 1TB
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Transcend SSD230 is a 128 GB 2.5-inch SATA SSD that delivers strong sequential performance and includes DRAM cache and SLC caching. Its limited capacity and SATA interface ceiling restrict it for power-users. Ideal for budget upgrades in older laptops or thin notebooks that need a low-power, high-read drive.
The TEAMGROUP PD20 1 TB portable SSD delivers up to 2,000 MB/s reads via USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 in an ultra-light, IP54-rated aluminum case. Its reliance on USB-C and occasional speed throttling on large transfers are trade-offs, and it does not include hardware encryption. Perfect for mobile professionals needing fast, rugged on-the-go storage.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
128 GB | 1,024 GBbest | |
560 MB/s | 2,000 MB/sbest | |
520 MB/s | 1,800 MB/sbest | |
35,000 IOPSbest | — | |
85,000 IOPSbest | 21,381 IOPS | |
2,240 TBbest | — | |
3 years | 5 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 63.5 g | 22 gbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Interface | SATA III | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 |
Performance(3) | ||
Sequential Read Speed (MB/s) | 560 MB/s | 2000 MB/s |
Sequential Write Speed (MB/s) | 520 MB/s | 1800 MB/s |
Random Write IOPS (4K) (IOPS) | 85000 IOPS | 21381 IOPS |
Storage(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 128 GB | 1024 GB |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 5 years |
Design & Build(3) | ||
Form Factor | 2.5-inch | External |
Weight (g) | 63.5 g | 22 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 99.06×68.58×6.8 mm mm | 7.62×1.524×3.302 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the Transcend SSD230S a solid value proposition for budget-oriented SATA upgrades, praising its DRAM cache, SLC caching and robust error-correction features while noting the inherent speed ceiling of the SATA interface and the modest 128 GB capacity as limiting factors for power users.
Professional reviewers commend the PD20 for its impressive 2,000 MB/s read capability, solid aluminum build, and IP54 durability, while noting that real-world large-file transfers can suffer from throttling. The ECO Mini's eco-friendly materials earn praise, but its slower USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 interface is seen as a drawback compared with the flagship model.
Consumers consistently praise the drive's feather-light weight, pocket-sized dimensions, and plug-and-play readiness, especially the included USB-C cable. Recurring concerns revolve around occasional speed drops on very large transfers and the reduced usable capacity after formatting.
