The Addlink A93/S93 offers solid PCIe 4.0 performance without breaking the bank. While the heatsink-equipped A93 faces stiff competition, the heatsink-less S93 presents a compelling value proposition. This review dives into the performance and features of both drives to help you decide if they’re the right fit for your storage needs.
The Addlink S93, a DRAM-less NVMe SSD, leverages PCIe 4.0 technology for impressive speeds at a competitive price. While its performance might not top the charts, its value is undeniable, especially for budget-conscious consumers.
Addlink S93/A93 Features and Specifications
Both the S93 and A93 utilize a Phison E27T controller, 162-layer TLC NAND, and a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface. The key difference lies in the heatsink: the A93 includes one, while the S93 does not. This DRAM-less design utilizes Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology, leveraging system memory for caching duties.
Addlink provides a five-year warranty and a 300 TBW (Terabytes Written) per 1GB of capacity rating, which is slightly lower than the average for TLC drives.
The back of the S93 NVMe SSD.
Pricing and Value
The S93 offers exceptional value, particularly in the 1TB and 2TB capacities. The A93, with its included heatsink, commands a price premium. While the heatsink is a nice addition, the graphene heat spreader on the S93 provides adequate cooling for most users. Unless you have a specific need for a heatsink, the S93 offers significant cost savings.
Performance Analysis
The 1TB S93 we tested delivered competitive performance, though it didn’t quite match the top contenders in its class. The 450GB write test proved to be its weakest point, likely due to the limited NAND available for secondary caching compared to 2TB models.
CrystalDiskMark 8 sequential transfer speed results. Longer bars are better.
CrystalDiskMark 8 results showcased strong sequential read and write speeds, especially with queued operations. Random performance was also respectable, even with a single queue.
CrystalDiskMark 8 random performance results. Longer bars are better.
The 48GB transfer tests highlighted the S93’s real-world performance capabilities, demonstrating good speeds for everyday tasks.
48GB transfer test results. Shorter bars are better.
The 450GB sustained write test, however, revealed the limitations of the 1TB model. While the slowest speed dipped to SATA-like levels, it’s important to note that a 2TB S93 would likely perform significantly better in this scenario.
450GB sustained write test results. Shorter bars are better.
Should You Buy the Addlink S93/A93?
The Addlink S93/A93 delivers good performance for its price, especially the S93. While not the fastest drive on the market, it offers excellent value, particularly for budget-conscious builders. We recommend opting for the 2TB version if possible, as it should provide better sustained write performance. The S93 stands out as a particularly attractive option for those looking for affordable PCIe 4.0 storage.
