SSD for compiling large projects

[blueskull]

Hi all, 

 

I have an X99 workstation which I use all the time. However, I'm about to start a new job that requires me to use it at home AND at work, so I need it to be portable.

As such, I plan to move the guts of my computer into a smaller chassis, in this case, NFC Skyreach 4.

However, this case has only 12mm vertical space for SSDs, any further will risk bending the GPU (the SSD bracket is above backplate of GPU), and I don't know if it's a good idea to force a component to another.

 

Therefore, I would want to look for options without using an U2 SSD. This means Optane 900P is out of the picture, and my current 750 is also out of picture.

Keep in mind that this X99 is an ITX, and it only has one single PCIe slot. All AIC SSDs are not usable with it.

 

So, among M2 SSDs, which is the best in terms of multi thread, QD1 random performance, as well as high endurance?

Cost is not a concern, unless it's absurdly expensive.

 

So far, I have this list:

 

1. SM961

2. PM981

3. 960 Pro

4. XG3

5. XG5

6. M8PeG

7. 800P*

 

*: This one is only available in up to 118GB, which is too small. This may be tolerated, but only as a last resort. It also has quite low endurance as an Optane, in the range of mid-range NAND SSDs.

 

My preferred capacity is at least 256GB, preferably 512GB or 1TB.

I already have 2*2TB Micron 1100 drives, so I don't need too much capacity.

Realistically, I need 40GB for OS and 100GB for source code (Linux, U-boot, etc., I do embedded design). So a super fast drive with at least 140GB is all what I need.

But I would prefer 240GB+ so that I don't have to purge source code cache frequently.

If I use 800P, I will have to install OS on SATA SSD, which is something I prefer not to do.

 

I know M8PeG is, among the list, the worst performer, but how bad it is? I happen to have one lying around in my HTPC that will never use its all potential, so if it is not completely blown away by, say, 960 Pro, then I might cannibalize it.

 

BTW, has anyone here own an 900P U2 and is willing to tear it down for some pictures? If it is a single PCB construction, I might just strip the case off and that should shave off a few mm.

If it has a 2 PCB construction like my 750, then there's no way I can use it in the new case, unless I force it onto the GPU, which I don't want.

 

Fancy custom software and drivers are not needed nor useful. I will be running Linux anyway.

 

//Edit: another option being using the M8PeG for now and wait for 970 Pro, which is announced but not for sale now. Based on performance of PM981, I won't say 970 Pro is mind blowing fast, but it should at least be slightly better than 960 Pro.

 

 

 

Thanks

[Enderman]

960 Pro

[blueskull]

1 hour ago, Enderman said:

960 Pro

How about the future 970 Pro? It will hit market in a less than a week, and it's only priced $630, while a brand new in box 960 Pro is still $530.

[Enderman]

6 minutes ago, blueskull said:

How about the future 970 Pro? It will hit market in a less than a week, and it's only priced $630, while a brand new in box 960 Pro is still $530.

Well I haven't seen any reviews on it, but if it's better then why not.

[blueskull]

11 minutes ago, Enderman said:

Well I haven't seen any reviews on it, but if it's better then why not.

It certainly looks good from early reviews.

 

http://www.guru3d.com/articles-pages/samsung-970-pro-m-2-512gb-nvme-ssd-review.html