by 215 reviews.
INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD Review: A Compact Powerhouse for Gamers and Professionals
The INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD is a high-performance internal solid-state drive designed for gamers, content creators, and tech enthusiasts. With its PCIe Gen 4.0x4 NVMe interface, this SSD delivers lightning-fast read/write speeds of up to 3,400MB/s and 2,400MB/s, respectively. Its compact 2230 form factor makes it ideal for devices like the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Surface Pro, and other mini PCs. Packed with advanced features like 3D TLC NAND flash, low power consumption, and a 6-year limited warranty, this SSD promises reliability, durability, and efficiency.
But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the pros and cons based on real customer experiences.
Pros and Cons: What Customers Are Saying
1. Performance and Speed
Pros:
- Blazing-Fast Speeds: Customers rave about the SSD’s performance, noting significant improvements in boot times, file transfers, and overall system responsiveness. One user mentioned that their Surface Pro 9 now boots and shuts down faster than the stock 250GB drive, even with multiple programs installed.
- Seamless Gaming Experience: Gamers using the SSD in their Steam Deck report faster load times and smoother gameplay. One reviewer said, “Having a terabyte of main storage means I don’t need micro SD cards anymore unless I want to install tons of games.”
Cons:
- Price Fluctuations: Some customers noted that the price of the SSD fluctuates significantly. One user regretted not purchasing it during a sale when it was priced at $140, as they ended up paying $80 more.
2. Ease of Installation
Pros:
- Simple and Quick Installation: Many users praised the SSD’s easy installation process. A Surface Pro 9 owner described the upgrade as a “one-minute job,” requiring just one screw to replace the drive. Steam Deck users also found the installation straightforward, with the hardest part being the careful removal of the battery plug.
- Plug-and-Play Compatibility: Customers appreciated the SSD’s compatibility with various devices. One user shared that while a high-quality brand’s SSD failed to work with their Raspberry Pi 5 NVMe hat, the INLAND TN436 worked immediately without any issues.
Cons:
- None Reported: No significant complaints about installation difficulties were noted.
3. Durability and Reliability
Pros:
- Long-Lasting Performance: The SSD’s 3D TLC NAND flash and 600 TBW endurance rating impressed users, who found it reliable for daily use. One reviewer mentioned, “Haven’t had any issues with this!”
- Energy-Efficient Design: The SSD’s low power consumption and reduced heat output were highlighted as key benefits, especially for portable devices like the Steam Deck and Surface Pro.
Cons:
- None Reported: Customers did not report any durability or reliability issues.
4. Value for Money
Pros:
- Cost-Effective Upgrade: Many users found the SSD to be a great value, especially compared to preinstalled options from manufacturers like Microsoft. One Steam Deck owner saved nearly $200 by upgrading their 64GB model to 1TB using this SSD.
- Warranty and Support: The 6-year limited warranty provided peace of mind for customers, ensuring long-term reliability.
Cons:
- Price Volatility: As mentioned earlier, the SSD’s price fluctuations were a minor drawback for some buyers.
Conclusion: Is the INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD Worth It?
The INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD is a standout choice for anyone looking to upgrade their gaming console, laptop, or mini PC. Its compact size, blazing-fast speeds, and easy installation make it a versatile and user-friendly option. Customers consistently praised its performance, durability, and value for money, with many noting significant improvements in boot times, file transfers, and gaming experiences.
While the price fluctuations may be a minor inconvenience, the SSD’s overall quality and reliability more than justify the investment. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or tech enthusiast, the INLAND TN436 1TB SSD delivers on its promises and is a worthy upgrade for your system.
Final Verdict: Highly recommended for its performance, ease of use, and excellent value.
Specification INLAND TN436 1TB M.2 2230 SSD PCIe Gen 4.0x4 NVMe Internal Solid State Drive, 3D TLC NAND Gaming Internal SSD, Compatible with Steam Deck ROG Ally Mini PCs:
Comments from Amazon:
Got this for my Steam Deck, it works pretty good and I haven't noticed any issues!
The first 2230 NVME SSD I bought for my Geeekpi RPi 5 NVME hat would just not work after much troubleshooting. It was a well known, high quality brand. However this Inland 1TB 2230 NVME drive worked immediately with zero problems. It has significantly increased the boot speed and general snappiness of the OS.
So far working great in my steam deck. Faster than the main storage and having a terabyte of main storage, I don’t need the micro SD cards anymore unless I just wanna install gobs of games. Pretty awesome so far. Install is pretty easy. Honestly the hardest part is getting the case apart and popping the little battery plug out carefully. Other than that, no sweat. If anything changes I’ll update the review. As of now it’s good to go.
Haven’t a any issue with this!
I got one of these to put in my 64Gb refurbished Steam Deck, and it worked the first time. No issues at all, great value for the money, and I have a 512Gb Steam Deck and saved almost $200 by doing this myself.
Works as advertised. Would buy again.
I have older Surface Pro models but none I ever tried to upgrade. I was shocked with the Surface Pro 9 how easy it was. The cover didn't even need a screw to remove, just a press. One screw as expected for the chip. Put the new in, screwed it down. Cover placed. Literally one minute job. The install from the recovery media I built prior was quick and painless. And no issues at all so far on the Surface Pro 9. Fast, boots and shuts down faster than the stock 250GB one did with nothing other than windows on it. I now installed EVERYTHING that I have on my laptops for business and personal use, gigs and gigs of programs. Including things that bring their own TSR's like Office and such. And it shuts off almost instantly, and boots quickly. Much better than the original drive. Price moves a lot, and I wish I had grabbed it when it was only 140 about 6 months ago, but it cost me about 80 bucks more now. Purchased on a Monday night, was scheduled to deliver Friday, it arrived Wednesday morning. So I was pleased with that as well. Nothing to complain about, other than missing the big sale. For a Surface Pro, it's a no brainer and WAY more cost effective than what MS will charge you for one preinstalled.