WD_BLACK SN7100 4TB NVMe SSD: features, specs and who it suits

The WD_BLACK SN7100 is an internal NVMe solid-state drive in the M.2 2280 format, connected over PCIe Gen4. This 4 TB version (WDS400T4X0E) is designed for gaming PCs and, according to the brand, laptops and handheld gaming devices where power efficiency matters.

Speed and what the figures mean

WD_BLACK quotes up to 7,250 MB/s read and 6,900 MB/s write for the 1 TB and 2 TB models, and the product title gives "up to 7,000 MB/s" for the range. Note that the higher figures are for the smaller capacities, so the 4 TB model's own figures may differ; check the manufacturer's data sheet for this exact version. The brand also says the drive offers up to 35% faster performance than the previous generation.

All of these are peak sequential numbers. They are useful for comparing generations, but everyday tasks such as loading a game depend on the whole system. NVMe over PCIe Gen4 is typically several times faster than SATA, which tops out around 550 MB/s.

Built for laptops and handhelds

The drive uses TLC 3D NAND, which stores three bits per cell and is a common choice for balancing capacity, speed and endurance. WD_BLACK says it uses up to 100% more power efficiency than the previous generation. Lower power draw at speed generally means less heat and better battery life in a laptop or handheld, though results depend on the device.

The single-sided M.2 2280 format (about 80 mm long) fits many ultrabooks and handhelds. The listing gives its size as 3.1 x 0.9 inches (about 79 x 23 mm) and a very low profile.

Capacity and endurance

The SN7100 is available up to 4 TB. That is room for a large game library, with space left for updates and downloadable content. For endurance, the brand rates the 4 TB model at up to 2,400 TBW. TBW means terabytes written: the total amount of data the drive is rated to take over its life. 2,400 TBW is far more than most people will write in normal use. Warranty terms usually tie to both years and TBW, so check the manufacturer's page for specifics.

Who it suits

It fits gamers upgrading a PC, console-style handheld or laptop with an M.2 slot, creators who work with large files, and anyone building a system who wants a large single drive. People whose devices only have SATA bays won't be able to use it.

What to check before you buy

• Slot support: confirm that your device has an M.2 2280 slot that supports NVMe, and which slots run at PCIe Gen4.
• Handheld compatibility: some handhelds and consoles have their own drive requirements, including length, sides and heatsinks. Check the maker's guidance.
• Heatsink: this listing doesn't mention a heatsink; check whether your motherboard or case provides one.
• Version: the title says "New Version", so confirm the model number (WDS400T4X0E) against what your supplier lists.
• Data move: plan how you will clone or reinstall your system.
• Reported capacity: the operating system will show slightly less than 4 TB because makers count in decimal.

The short version

• 4 TB NVMe SSD, M.2 2280, PCIe Gen4, TLC 3D NAND.
• Up to 7,250 MB/s read and 6,900 MB/s write quoted for the 1-2 TB models.
• Up to 2,400 TBW endurance for the 4 TB model, per WD_BLACK.
• Aimed at laptops, handhelds and gaming PCs, with improved power efficiency over the previous generation.
• Check slot type and heatsink space before fitting.

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