What is the best SSD for a NAS home server?

Question

I'm setting up a new home NAS and can't decide on the right SSDs. I'm torn between using NVMe for caching or going all-flash with SATA drives. Since it'll run 24/7, I’m worried about endurance and TBW ratings. What specific models offer the best reliability without breaking the bank for a 2TB setup?

rlrkxtppeo · Accepted Answer

Great info, saved!

gowuorqezt · Answer

Honestly, I've had issues with consumer NVMe drives burning out too fast in 24/7 setups. For a budget-friendly 2TB setup, I would suggest the Crucial MX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD. It's reliable and way cheaper than enterprise gear. If you really want NVMe caching, the Samsung 970 EVO Plus 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD is decent, but unfortunately, its TBW isn't as good as I expected for heavy write loads. Stick with SATA for bulk storage; it's more stable IMO.

gowuorqezt · Answer

For your situation, I would suggest looking at specific NAS-grade or high-endurance drives rather than standard consumer ones. If you're running 24/7, endurance (TBW) is everything... especially if you go the NVMe caching route which eats through NAND cycles fast.

Here’s how I’d break it down for a 2TB setup:

• **Option A: The SATA All-Flash Route**
I'd skip the basic consumer drives and go for the Western Digital WD Red SA500 2TB NAS SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD. It's specifically designed for 24/7 environments with better firmware for error recovery. Honestly, for a home setup, SATA speeds are usually enough to saturate a 1GbE or even 2.5GbE link anyway.

• **Option B: High-Endurance NVMe Cache**
If you're dead set on NVMe caching, be careful with cheap drives. I'd recommend the Seagate IronWolf 525 2TB ZP2000NM30002 NAS NVMe SSD. It has a massive TBW rating compared to standard drives.

IMO, the SA500 is the best value choice. It's stable, reliable, and wont break the bank. Just make sure to check your controller compatibility first!