by 154 reviews.
Shark Speed 64GB SATA III 2.5" SSD Review: A Budget-Friendly Upgrade for Older Systems
If you're looking to breathe new life into an older laptop or desktop, the Shark Speed 64GB SATA III 2.5" Internal Solid State Drive might be the perfect solution. This SSD promises faster boot times, improved system responsiveness, and reliable performance—all at an affordable price. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details based on real customer experiences.
Key Features at a Glance
- High-Speed Performance
SATA III 6Gb/s interface for faster data access. - Enhanced Stability
Features like TRIM command, S.M.A.R.T monitoring, and ECC ensure reliable performance. - Compact Design
2.5-inch form factor compatible with most laptops and desktops. - 3-Year Warranty
Backed by a limited warranty and lifetime technical support.
Pros and Cons: What Customers Are Saying
Performance and Speed
Many users praised the Shark Speed SSD for its noticeable improvement in system performance. One customer mentioned using it to replace a failed SATADOM in an older server, stating that it "rescued" their system and allowed them to get back up and running in minutes. Another user reported that it worked flawlessly in an old IBM ThinkPad, transforming it from a "potato" to a functional machine.
However, some users noted that while the SSD is fast, it’s not the most cutting-edge option available. One reviewer described it as "not the fanciest SSD out there," but still a solid choice for basic needs.
Ease of Installation
The installation process received mixed feedback. While some users found it straightforward, others encountered challenges. For example, one customer highlighted that while the BIOS recognized the SSD immediately, they had to use Windows Disk Management to create a partition and assign a drive letter. This step required some Googling, which might be a hurdle for less tech-savvy users.
On the flip side, several users appreciated how easy it was to install the SSD in older systems, such as Lenovo Yoga laptops and mini Terryza computers. One reviewer even used it to replace a cellular modem in an Evolve III Maestro, thanks to its dual B+M key design.
Compatibility and Versatility
The Shark Speed SSD shines in its compatibility with a wide range of devices. Customers have successfully used it in older laptops, servers, and even unconventional setups like replacing a modem. Its compact 2.5-inch form factor makes it a versatile choice for upgrading older systems.
One user specifically mentioned its compatibility with Fedora Linux v34, where it worked perfectly as both an ext2 formatted drive and part of a btfs group. Another customer used it to dual-boot Linux and Windows on a laptop with a soldered-in SSD, showcasing its flexibility.
Durability and Reliability
Durability is a strong suit for this SSD. Customers reported that it performed reliably under various conditions, from running operating systems to handling frequent file transfers. One reviewer noted that it worked "very fast" after replacing a failed SSD in a mini Terryza computer, while another appreciated its energy efficiency compared to traditional HDDs.
However, some users expressed concerns about its long-term performance, given its budget-friendly price point. While no major durability issues were reported, it’s worth noting that this SSD is best suited for light to moderate use rather than heavy workloads.
Final Verdict: Is the Shark Speed 64GB SSD Worth It?
The Shark Speed 64GB SATA III 2.5" SSD is a reliable and affordable option for upgrading older systems. Its high-speed performance, compact design, and broad compatibility make it a great choice for users looking to extend the life of their laptops or desktops.
Strengths:
- Affordable price point.
- Noticeable improvement in system performance.
- Versatile and compatible with a wide range of devices.
- Easy to install in most systems.
Weaknesses:
- Requires some technical know-how for setup (e.g., partitioning).
- Not the fastest or most advanced SSD on the market.
- Best suited for light to moderate use.
If you’re on a budget and need a simple, functional SSD to revive an older machine, the Shark Speed 64GB SSD is a solid choice. However, if you’re looking for top-tier performance or heavy-duty use, you might want to explore higher-end options.
Specification SSD SATA 2.5" 64GB Shark Speed Internal Solid State Drive High Performance Hard Drive for Desktop Laptop SATA III 6Gb/s(64GB, 2.5''-SATA3):
Comments from Amazon:
I installed the hard-drive and the bios recognized it right away. Windows will recognize it, but then you have to create a partition using Disk Management. This was the step that I had to google. If you are rusty in your computer skills, make sure you know how to mount the drive in Windows, as it will not show up with a drive letter until you do this important step. This will prevent many returns. Reach out to support first if you have issues, as this drive does work.
I used this SSD drive to replace the failed, wore out, old, SATADOM in an older server platform. I was using the SATADOM as the boot drive for the server and after several years of use and OS changes to the SATADOM, it finally crashed. I was RESCUED by this SSD simply by using it to replace the old DOM with a SSD to run the OS for my TrueNAS drive array in the server. I reinstalled the OS, re-imported my config backup, and then was up and running again in minutes on new and better hardware than I had before. Excellent!
Got an old potato IBM thinkpad up and running worked liked it should.
This met the short form factor I needed for older Lenova Yoga laptops. It took some research and measurements to decide it might work, and I was pleased to find that it worked perfectly under Fedora Linux v34, both as a ext2 formatted drive and later as part of a btfs group. If you have the laptop taken apart for other service, this is a decent and inexpensive upgrade.
Used this to replace the cellular modem in an Evolve III Maestro. Because the slot was intended for a modem, not a SSD, it was B-keyed instead of M-keyed; this SSD is a dual B+M key and so it fits. Moreover, the Maestro doesn't do NVME; note that this is a SATA SSD, which is able to function in this laptop. Works fine, allows dual boot of Linux and the original Windows install on the soldered-in SSD.
Replaced a failed ssd in a mini Terryza computer. Very easy to install in the unit and mxLinux os. Worked very fast. Would recommend.
Bought this for a mining computer, and it works just fine. It’s not the fanciest SSD out there, but it does the job. Decent value for the price if you need something simple and functional.