Transcend 120 GB TLC SATA III 6Gb/s 2.5" Solid State Drive (TS120GSSD220S) Review: A Budget-Friendly Upgrade for Your System

If you're looking to breathe new life into an aging laptop or desktop, the Transcend 120 GB TLC SATA III 6Gb/s 2.5" Solid State Drive (TS120GSSD220S) is a solid choice. This SSD promises faster boot times, quicker file transfers, and improved overall performance, all while being energy-efficient and durable. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details based on real customer experiences.

Pros and Cons: What Do Users Say?

Performance: Speed That Impresses

One of the standout features of the Transcend 120 GB SSD is its speed. Many users have reported significant improvements in their system's performance after upgrading from traditional HDDs. One customer, a computer repair technician, noted that the drive consistently achieves 550MBps read and 400+MBps write speeds, which is a massive leap compared to the 100MBps speeds of older hard drives. This translates to faster boot times, quicker program launches, and smoother multitasking.

Another user mentioned that installing this SSD in an older Gateway desktop reduced boot times from 3-5 minutes to just 30 seconds. Programs like Photoshop and Premiere Pro also opened much faster, making the system feel brand new. For gamers, the drive delivered fast load times for titles like Forza Horizon 3 and The Witcher 3, with no stutters or lockups reported.

However, some users pointed out that the 4K write speeds are relatively slow, which might be a drawback for heavy workloads like video editing. While the drive performs admirably for general use, it may not be the best choice for professionals who need top-tier performance.

Durability and Reliability: Built to Last

The Transcend 120 GB SSD is designed to withstand shock and vibration, making it a reliable choice for laptops and portable devices. One user highlighted the advantage of SSDs over traditional HDDs, stating that the lack of moving parts allows you to move your laptop around without worrying about damaging the drive. This is a game-changer for anyone who frequently works on the go.

In terms of reliability, multiple users reported zero failures or issues with the drive, even after months of use. One customer, who has installed dozens of SSDs over the years, praised Transcend for its consistent quality and reliability, comparing it favorably to more expensive brands like Samsung.

Price and Value: A Budget-Friendly Option

The Transcend 120 GB SSD is often praised for its affordability. One user mentioned picking up the 480GB version for just $86.99 during a sale, calling it a "very good deal." However, at its regular price, some customers feel that there are better-performing SSDs available, such as the Samsung 850 EVO or SK Hynix SL308, which offer superior performance for a slightly higher cost.

For those on a tight budget, the Transcend SSD is a compelling option, especially when on sale. But if you're willing to spend a bit more, you might find better value in higher-end models.

Ease of Installation and Software

Installing the Transcend SSD is straightforward, with most users reporting a hassle-free experience. However, some customers encountered issues with the included SSD Scope software, which failed to image their old drives correctly. One user had to manually reinstall Windows and all their software, which was a minor inconvenience. Despite this, the drive itself performed flawlessly once set up.

Conclusion: Is the Transcend 120 GB SSD Worth It?

The Transcend 120 GB TLC SATA III 6Gb/s 2.5" Solid State Drive (TS120GSSD220S) is a reliable, budget-friendly SSD that delivers impressive performance for everyday computing tasks. It’s an excellent choice for upgrading older systems, reducing boot times, and improving overall responsiveness. While it may not be the fastest or most feature-packed SSD on the market, it offers great value for the price, especially during sales.

Final Verdict

• Pros: Affordable, reliable, fast read/write speeds, durable design, easy installation.
• Cons: Slower 4K write speeds, SSD Scope software can be unreliable, better options available at higher price points.

If you're looking for a cost-effective way to boost your system's performance, the Transcend 120 GB SSD is a solid choice. However, if you need top-tier performance for heavy workloads, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end model.