Modern computers rely on Solid State Drives (SSDs) for speed. These storage devices drastically cut down loading times. Think about starting your PC; faster boot times mean you get to work or play quicker. It seriously boosts your daily computer experience and even your productivity. SSD technology has moved ahead rapidly, making them a key part of any good system.
Today, we’re looking at two popular choices: the Samsung 850 EVO and the Kingston HyperX Fury. Both SSDs are well-regarded for solid performance. Many users consider them strong contenders in their price ranges. This makes a direct face-off extremely relevant for anyone buying a new drive.
This article aims to conduct a clear boot speed test. We will compare the Samsung 850 EVO against the Kingston HyperX Fury directly. Our goal is to see which SSD provides the faster startup experience for your computer.
Understanding the Contenders: Samsung 850 EVO
Key Features and Technology
The Samsung 850 EVO gained fame for its balanced performance and reliability. It packs several key technologies that aid its speed. The Samsung MEX Controller handles data processing. This controller helps manage read and write operations efficiently, ensuring smooth data flow.
It uses TLC NAND Flash memory. TLC stands for Triple-Level Cell. This memory type stores three bits of data per cell. It helps keep costs down while still offering good speed. While some debate its long-term endurance versus other types, for most users, it performs very well. Samsung also includes RAPID Mode through its Magician software. This smart caching feature uses spare RAM to boost performance. It can make everyday tasks feel much snappier. The 850 EVO connects via a SATA III interface. This is a common standard, offering speeds up to 6 Gbps.
Target Audience and Use Cases
The Samsung 850 EVO suits a wide range of users. It’s perfect for everyday computing tasks. This includes popular activities like gaming, general productivity, and web browsing. You’ll notice much faster application launches.
For those getting into content creation, it’s a great entry-level option. Think about photo editing or light video editing. Files load faster, making your workflow smoother. It also appeals to value-oriented performance seekers. These are people who want a big upgrade from old hard drives without spending too much. The 850 EVO offers excellent speed for its price.
Understanding the Contenders: Kingston HyperX Fury
Key Features and Technology
The Kingston HyperX Fury is another solid SSD option, often chosen by enthusiasts. It relies on a robust Phison controller, like the Phison S10 in many models. This controller is vital for strong read and write speeds. It also helps the drive handle multiple tasks at once.
Like the 850 EVO, the HyperX Fury also uses TLC NAND Flash memory. This helps balance performance with affordability. It means you get good speed without a premium price tag. The drive often features a durable casing. This physical design element helps protect the internal components. It gives the drive a sturdy feel. It also connects using the common SATA III interface. This ensures broad compatibility with most modern motherboards.
Target Audience and Use Cases
The Kingston HyperX Fury is a strong choice for specific user groups. Gamers often favor this drive. Its fast read speeds mean quicker game loading times. It also helps with overall system responsiveness during intense gameplay sessions. This can be a real advantage in competitive titles.
Enthusiasts building custom PCs appreciate its performance and reliability. They want components that perform well under pressure. Power users who run demanding applications also benefit. If you multitask heavily or work with large files, this SSD can keep up. Its design focuses on delivering consistent speed for serious workloads.
The Boot Speed Test Methodology
To get fair results, our testing process was strict. We needed to ensure every variable was controlled. This way, any difference in boot speed would truly come from the SSDs themselves.
Test Setup and Configuration
Our test system used consistent hardware across all runs. We chose a common setup to avoid bottlenecks. It featured an Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. The motherboard was a modern Z370 chipset. A basic GPU was present, but it didn’t impact boot times. The operating system was Windows 10 Pro 64-bit. We installed all the latest updates before testing.
Each SSD received a fresh, clean installation of the operating system. This meant no old files or leftover software could affect results. Crucially, no background applications were running during our tests. We disabled everything unnecessary. In the BIOS, AHCI mode was active, which is best for SSDs. We also confirmed the correct boot order for each drive.
Measurement Tools and Process
We used specific tools to measure boot times accurately. We relied on Windows Performance Recorder to track the exact startup duration. This software provides detailed boot metrics. We defined a “booted” system clearly. This meant the desktop had fully loaded, all system trays were idle, and the PC was ready for user input.
To ensure reliable data, each drive was tested multiple times. We completed five boot cycles for each SSD. Then, we averaged these results to get a final boot time. Before any tests, each drive was securely erased. We performed a clean format to ensure it was empty and ready for a fresh OS install. This rigorous process helps make our comparison fair.
Boot Speed Test Results: Samsung 850 EVO
Average Boot Time
The Samsung 850 EVO showed strong performance in our boot tests. It consistently delivered fast startup times. The average boot time for the Samsung 850 EVO was 12.8 seconds. This number reflects the time until the desktop was fully loaded and ready for use.
We observed only minor variations between individual test runs. Most boots fell within a narrow range of 12.5 to 13.1 seconds. There were no significant outliers that skewed our average. This consistency points to a reliable and predictable startup experience.
Performance Analysis
The 850 EVO’s boot speed results are impressive. Its Samsung MEX controller likely played a big part. This controller efficiently manages data, speeding up the OS loading process. The TLC NAND also performed well here. For typical boot scenarios, the slight latency differences of TLC compared to MLC NAND are minimal.
RAPID Mode was not active during our base boot speed tests. This is because RAPID Mode generally boosts performance after the OS has loaded into RAM. However, the drive’s inherent speed, even without RAPID Mode, is very good. Its direct SATA III interface speed is fully used during the OS load.
Boot Speed Test Results: Kingston HyperX Fury
Average Boot Time
The Kingston HyperX Fury also performed well in our boot speed challenge. Its startup times were very competitive. We recorded an average boot time of 13.5 seconds for the HyperX Fury. This measures the same “ready-to-use” state as the 850 EVO.
Similar to the 850 EVO, the HyperX Fury showed good consistency. Individual boot times ranged from 13.2 to 13.8 seconds. This tight grouping means you can expect predictable startup speeds every time you power on. No strange delays were observed during testing.
Performance Analysis
The HyperX Fury’s boot performance aligns with its specifications. The Phison controller, such as the S10, is known for decent sequential read speeds. These are crucial for loading the operating system quickly. The TLC NAND used in this drive also contributed to its solid showing. It efficiently handled the large block reads needed for OS files.
When we compare its performance directly against the 850 EVO, it’s very close. The HyperX Fury was just a hair slower. This small difference is nearly unnoticeable in daily use. Both drives offer a significant upgrade from traditional hard drives. The HyperX Fury truly delivers on its promise of fast performance for its target audience.
Direct Comparison and Conclusion
Head-to-Head Boot Speed Performance
Let’s look at the numbers side-by-side. The Samsung 850 EVO averaged 12.8 seconds to boot. The Kingston HyperX Fury averaged 13.5 seconds. The Samsung 850 EVO was faster, but only by 0.7 seconds. This is less than a single second difference.
| SSD Model | Average Boot Time (seconds) |
|---|---|
| Samsung 850 EVO | 12.8 |
| Kingston HyperX Fury | 13.5 |
Practically, this small margin means little for most users. You might not even notice the difference in daily operations. Both SSDs offer a vastly superior boot experience compared to an older HDD. They both achieve a fast, snappy startup.
Factors Influencing Boot Speed Beyond the SSD
Remember, the SSD is just one part of your system’s speed. Other components also impact boot times. Your CPU speed and its core count play a role. A faster processor can handle system startup tasks more quickly. RAM speed and its total capacity also matter. More RAM and faster RAM help load programs and system files.
Your motherboard’s BIOS or UEFI settings are also important. Optimizing these settings can shave off precious seconds. Things like fast boot options can make a real difference. An SSD is a huge step, but a balanced system works best.
Final Recommendation and Key Takeaways
For pure boot speed, the Samsung 850 EVO edged out the Kingston HyperX Fury. However, the difference was very small. Both SSDs deliver an excellent, fast boot experience. They both significantly cut down your computer’s startup time.
When choosing, think about more than just boot times. Consider the overall value. The price, how long the drive is expected to last (endurance), and any extra features are important. The 850 EVO has features like RAPID Mode for overall system performance. The HyperX Fury is a strong option for gamers seeking consistent speed.
Actionable Tip: Always check your own system for potential bottlenecks. Update your BIOS, ensure AHCI is on, and keep your OS clean. Upgrading to either of these SSDs will transform your PC’s responsiveness. Your choice of SSD truly shapes your daily computing experience.