by 87 reviews.
MSI SPATIUM M461 PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 4TB Internal SSD Review: A Storage Powerhouse with a Few Caveats
If you're in the market for a high-capacity, high-performance SSD, the MSI SPATIUM M461 PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 4TB Internal SSD is a compelling option. Designed for gamers, content creators, and professionals, this SSD promises blazing-fast speeds, ample storage, and robust durability. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details based on real customer experiences.
Product Overview
The MSI SPATIUM M461 is a PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe SSD that boasts sequential read speeds of up to 5000MB/s and write speeds of up to 4400MB/s. With a massive 4TB storage capacity, it’s perfect for storing large game libraries, high-resolution media files, and demanding applications. The SSD also features built-in data security and hardware encryption, ensuring your data stays safe.
Its 3300 TBW (Terabytes Written) rating suggests long-term durability, and the absence of moving parts makes it a reliable choice for heavy workloads. But how does it perform in real-world scenarios? Let’s break it down.
Pros and Cons
Performance and Speed
Pros:
- Blazing-Fast Speeds: Many users praise the SSD for its impressive performance. One customer noted that it loads music software like Ableton in just two seconds, making it ideal for creative professionals.
- Great Value for Money: At its discounted price point (as low as $170 during sales), the MSI SPATIUM M461 offers excellent performance compared to other 4TB SSDs on the market.
Cons:
- Not the Fastest Gen4 SSD: While the speeds are impressive, some users pointed out that it’s not the fastest PCIe Gen4 SSD available. If you’re looking for top-tier performance, you might want to explore other options.
Durability and Longevity
Pros:
- High TBW Rating: The advertised 3300 TBW suggests that the SSD can handle heavy workloads over an extended period.
Cons:
- Mixed Durability Reports: Some users reported issues with the SSD’s longevity. One customer mentioned that the drive’s health dropped to 40% within a year, while a Kingston SSD in the same system remained at 96% health. This raises questions about the SSD’s durability under heavy use.
- Discrepancy in TBW Claims: Another user pointed out that MSI’s website lists the TBW as 900TBW, not 3300TBW, which could be misleading for buyers.
Storage Capacity and Usability
Pros:
- Massive 4TB Capacity: The SSD offers plenty of space for large game libraries, media files, and projects. One user mentioned that it easily accommodated their entire STEAM library with room to spare.
- Easy Installation: The SSD is compatible with desktop systems and is straightforward to install, making it a great choice for DIY builders.
Cons:
- Price Fluctuations: While the SSD is a great value during sales, its regular price can be steep. Some users recommend waiting for discounts or opting for a smaller capacity SSD in the meantime.
Temperature and Reliability
Pros:
- Efficient Temperature Management: Users reported that the SSD runs cool, especially when paired with proper motherboard shielding.
Cons:
- Potential Reliability Issues: The mixed feedback on durability and health degradation suggests that the SSD may not be as reliable as some competitors, particularly under heavy workloads.
Final Verdict
The MSI SPATIUM M461 PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 4TB Internal SSD is a solid choice for those seeking a high-capacity, high-performance storage solution. Its blazing-fast speeds, massive storage capacity, and competitive pricing during sales make it an attractive option for gamers, content creators, and professionals.
However, the mixed feedback on durability and potential discrepancies in TBW claims are worth considering. If you’re planning to use the SSD for heavy workloads, you might want to explore other options or ensure you have a robust backup system in place.
Overall, the MSI SPATIUM M461 offers excellent value for money, especially during sales, but it’s not without its flaws. If you can snag it at a discounted price, it’s a worthy addition to your system.
Specification MSI SPATIUM M461 PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 4TB Internal SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe:
Comments from Amazon:
I built a new computer in July of 2023 and bought almost all of the parts from Amazon during the July Prime Day sale. I'd been wanting a 4TB SSD and decided on this one. GLAD I DID!!!! It easily accepted my STEAM library and still has space left a year later. MOST of the parts I ordered were from MSI and I didn't even realize it til after. I have had NO problems with this SSD. I doubt I ever will.
I don't think there's another 4tb drive on the market that can match the value/performance of this drive ( as of 6/5/23 . I was able to get it for $209.
It works, it is as good as other top brands, but it is not worth what they are charging for it now. Hold off for now, get a smaller 1TB to hold you over, because I just got this a few months ago from somewhere else for 170.
This has to be the fastest drive to lose health I've ever had. A little over a year and its telling me to make backups and replace it while I have drives seven years old that test perfectly fine. I have no idea what's wrong with it but at four tb by the time you fill it up you might have to just throw it in the trash anyways. Its the drive that came with a prebuilt yet the ones from my old pc are on track to outlive it at least ten times over. The Kingston I bought and installed first thing has the same age and work stats and is at 96% S.M.A.R.T health so why is this thing at 40% and failing? They are right next to each other and are the same temperature practically all the time so that is a huge difference, it wasn't the environment or other factors they were both treated exactly the same way in the same location.
Msi website lists this 4TB ssd at 900TBW, NOT the listed 3300.
It's not the fastest 4th gen NVME, but for the price it is absolutely fantastic. I've got all of my music software on this drive & it loads Ableton in maybe two seconds solid. No issues whatsoever, and temps run great with the shielding provided by the Mobo (3rd M.2 Slot in an MSI X670E Ace)
Excellent item