Biwin Black Opal NV7400 2TB SSD Review: A Potent New Performer
▼ Summary
– The Biwin Black Opal NV7400 is a versatile, single-sided PCIe 4.0 SSD suitable for laptops, desktops, or a PS5, available in capacities up to 4TB.
– It is a DRAM-less drive with a reliable Maxio MAP1602 controller and Micron TLC flash, performing well in tests without major issues.
– Its performance specifications are solid for its class, with sequential speeds up to 7,450/6,500 MB/s and excellent write endurance of 1,000TBW per TB backed by a 5-year warranty.
– The drive includes Biwin’s all-in-one software toolbox for management tasks like cloning, updating, and diagnostics, which is a convenience feature.
– Current pricing is high and availability is spotty, making it a good option primarily if found on sale or needed urgently, as better deals may exist.
Finding a versatile, high-capacity solid-state drive that delivers strong performance without a hefty price tag can feel like a challenge. The Biwin Black Opal NV7400 meets that demand, offering a compelling blend of speed, endurance, and a sleek single-sided design suitable for laptops, desktops, or a PlayStation 5. Available in capacities up to 4TB, this drive provides a practical solution when storage needs are high and budgets are tight. In a market where SSD prices fluctuate wildly, having a reliable performer like this in your list of options is a smart move.
This model is a DRAM-less design that leverages Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology. It pairs the proven Maxio MAP1602 controller with Micron’s 232-layer TLC NAND flash, a combination that performed reliably across all our testing without any significant issues. Our primary reservations involve current market pricing and spotty availability, especially for the higher-capacity models. Under typical conditions, this is a straightforward, capable drive with no hidden surprises, making it a solid choice if you find it on sale or need immediate storage.
Performance specifications are robust for the PCIe 4.0 interface. The drive can achieve sequential read and write speeds up to 7,450 MB/s and 6,500 MB/s, respectively, with random performance reaching 1,000K read and 900K write IOPS. These are strong, competitive numbers that ensure the drive won’t feel underwhelming in daily use. It also boasts excellent write endurance, rated at 1,000 TBW (Terabytes Written) per terabyte of capacity, and is backed by a five-year warranty.
The included Biwin Intelligence software suite adds considerable value, functioning as an all-in-one toolbox for SSD management. It supports S.M.A.R.T. monitoring, error scanning, performance benchmarking, data backup, drive cloning, firmware updates, and secure erase functions. For users who prefer a single, dedicated application for drive maintenance over scattered free utilities, this software is a notable advantage.
A closer look at the hardware reveals thoughtful engineering. The NV7400 is a single-sided M.2 2280 drive across all capacities, enhancing compatibility with thin laptops and making thermal management simpler. It features a graphene label to aid heat dissipation. With a maximum power draw rated under 7 watts, it operates efficiently and typically does not require an additional heatsink for stable performance, especially when compared to more power-hungry PCIe 5.0 drives.
The core components are where things get interesting. While the Maxio MAP1602 controller is a common and efficient four-channel design, its pairing with Micron’s 232-layer TLC flash is less usual. Many competing drives use similar controllers with flash from YMTC. This particular combination performs admirably, and the use of TLC NAND is a positive differentiator over less durable QLC flash, contributing to the drive’s high endurance rating.
Current pricing for the available 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models requires careful shopping, as more aggressive deals may exist from other brands depending on market timing. However, the Biwin Black Opal NV7400 stands out as a well-rounded, dependable performer. Its strong warranty, good software, and efficient single-sided design make it a versatile and practical choice for a wide range of users seeking capable PCIe 4.0 storage.
(Source: Tom’s Hardware)
