WD Blue SA510 1TB SATA SSD (WDS100T3B0A): features, specs and fit

The WD Blue SA510 (model WDS100T3B0A) is a 1TB solid-state drive in the 2.5-inch, 7mm format with a SATA III interface. Western Digital positions it as an upgrade for PCs that still run from a hard drive or from a small, older SSD, and as an easy way to add storage without replacing the computer.

What the speed figures mean

Western Digital lists a read speed of up to 560MB/s and a write speed of up to 520MB/s, over the SATA III link, which is rated at 6Gb/s (the listing also mentions a 600MB/s transfer rate). That is the ceiling of the SATA interface, so a SATA drive can't go faster than roughly this range regardless of the flash inside. The figures are "up to" values from the brand's own tests.

Compared with a mechanical hard drive, an SSD has no moving parts and responds much more quickly to small requests. In practice that tends to mean faster boot times, quicker app launches and less waiting when opening large folders. NVMe drives are faster still, but they need an M.2 slot with the right wiring, and many older machines don't have one. SATA remains the common option for older desktops and laptops.

Form factor and fit

The listed dimensions are about 3.9 x 2.8 x 0.3 inches, which matches the standard 2.5-inch, 7mm height used in most laptops and desktop drive bays. The SA510 is also available in an M.2 version according to the description, but this listing is for the 2.5-inch drive, model WDS100T3B0A. In a desktop with only 3.5-inch bays, you may need a mounting bracket.

Software and extras

The description says the drive comes with access to Acronis True Image for Western Digital, backup and cyber protection software, which is useful for cloning an existing drive onto the new one. It also mentions a trial offer from a cloud-storage provider, but that offer had an expiry date, so don't count on it. Check what is currently included.

Capacity and who it suits

At 1TB, the drive has room for an operating system, applications and a sizeable library of documents, photos or games. It suits people reviving an older laptop or desktop, creators who want faster file transfers and editing on a SATA system, and builders who need a secondary drive for general storage. The description is aimed at professionals, creatives and freelancers, but nothing in it makes the drive specific to them.

What to check before you buy

• Interface: confirm your machine has a free SATA port and a 2.5-inch bay or a bracket for one.
• Thickness: 7mm fits nearly all laptops, but check yours.
• Cloning: you'll need a way to copy your old drive, such as the included software or a SATA-to-USB cable.
• Capacity needs: 1TB is formatted to a little less usable space in your operating system.
• Speed expectations: SATA tops out near 560MB/s, so it won't match an NVMe drive.
• Backups: keep a backup of important files before swapping drives.

The short version

• A 1TB 2.5-inch, 7mm SATA III internal solid-state drive, model WDS100T3B0A.
• Rated by Western Digital at up to 560MB/s reads and 520MB/s writes.
• Suited to upgrading older laptops and desktops that use SATA.
• Includes access to Acronis True Image for Western Digital, according to the description.
• Make sure you have a SATA connection and a 2.5-inch bay before you buy.

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