Ever wondered how to squeeze every last drop of performance from your high-speed SSD? It’s not just about picking a great drive; it’s also about optimizing its settings. If you’re running a 2TB SSD from powerhouse brands like Lexar or Western Digital, you’ve got serious storage power at your fingertips. But to truly unlock peak efficiency, you need to consider something called the allocation unit size (also known as cluster size). Finding the Lexar best allocation unit size for Western Digital SSD 2TB isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, as it largely depends on how you use your drive.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll not only demystify allocation unit size and its importance but also review 10 stellar 2TB SSDs from Lexar and Western Digital. We’re talking blazing-fast internal NVMe drives, reliable SATA options, and versatile portable powerhouses, all designed to deliver top-tier performance for gamers, creators, and everyday users alike. Let’s dive in and get your storage optimized!
Understanding Allocation Unit Size (Cluster Size) for Your 2TB SSD
Before we jump into the best SSDs, let’s talk about allocation unit size. Think of your SSD as a giant library. When you store a file, the file system (like NTFS for Windows or APFS for macOS) doesn’t just put it anywhere. It breaks the file into chunks and stores them in “blocks” or “clusters” on the drive. The allocation unit size is simply the size of these individual blocks.
Why does this matter for your Lexar best allocation unit size for Western Digital SSD 2TB?
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Performance:
- Smaller Allocation Unit Size (e.g., 4KB): Ideal if you frequently deal with many small files (like documents, web cache, program files). It minimizes wasted space because even a tiny file gets its own 4KB block, and if it’s smaller than 4KB, the rest of the block goes unused. However, for very large files, the system has to manage more blocks, which can slightly increase read/write times.
- Larger Allocation Unit Size (e.g., 64KB): Fantastic for fewer, very large files (like 4K video editing, large game installations, CAD files, or databases). The drive can read/write bigger chunks of data at once, leading to faster data transfer speeds. The trade-off is potential wasted space: if you save a lot of tiny files, each one will still occupy a full 64KB block, even if it only needs 1KB, leading to significant “slack space.”
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Storage Efficiency: This directly relates to the point above. If you’re installing a game that’s made up of millions of tiny texture files, a 64KB cluster size could mean a lot of wasted space. If you’re saving a few massive video files, a 64KB cluster size will be more efficient in terms of performance and won’t waste much space since the files are already huge.
So, what’s the “best” for a 2TB SSD?
For most users, especially with 2TB drives, the default 4KB or 8KB allocation unit size is usually a safe bet. It offers a good balance between performance for various file types and minimizing wasted space. If you know for a fact that your 2TB drive will be predominantly used for large files (e.g., a dedicated gaming drive or a video editing scratch disk), then opting for 16KB or even 64KB could yield noticeable performance benefits.
Ultimately, the choice for the Lexar best allocation unit size for Western Digital SSD 2TB comes down to your primary use case, not necessarily the brand itself. Both Lexar and Western Digital SSDs will benefit from this optimization based on your workflow.
Let’s explore some fantastic 2TB SSD options that will thrive with the right settings!
1. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
This Lexar NM790 is a beast for anyone seeking cutting-edge performance from an internal drive. Designed for hardcore gamers, creative professionals, and tech enthusiasts, it pushes the boundaries of PCIe Gen4, offering astonishing speeds that are twice as fast as many Gen3 SSDs. What makes it truly stand out is its efficiency; it delivers this incredible speed with significantly less power consumption, thanks to its DRAM-less design paired with Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology, making it a smart choice for laptops and even PlayStation 5 upgrades.
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Key Features:
- [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1500TBW endurance rating for long-term reliability
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs, up to 40% less power consumption
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth performance
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5; single-sided NVMe SSD perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast read/write speeds, ideal for demanding applications
- Excellent power efficiency for a Gen4 drive
- High endurance rating (TBW) ensures longevity
- Single-sided design offers broad compatibility
- Great value for its performance tier
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Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard for full speed
- DRAM-less design might be a concern for some enterprise workloads (though HMB mitigates this for consumer use)
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User Impressions: Users rave about the NM790’s raw speed, especially for gaming and heavy file transfers. Many note its ease of installation and the noticeable improvement in system responsiveness and load times. The low power consumption is a frequently praised benefit for laptop users.
2. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
For the on-the-go content creator, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD isn’t just a drive; it’s a mobile workstation. Its ultra-compact design ensures you can take it anywhere, while the wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector eliminates cable clutter. But the real game-changer is the integrated hub, featuring four USB Type-C ports, making it a versatile companion for capturing and managing high-resolution media, including Apple ProRes footage, with blazing-fast transfer speeds and robust protection against the elements.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for portability and spontaneous creativity
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensure firm insertion)
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage with ease
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports plus adapters/cables for flexibility
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65 rated), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series in progress
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Unmatched portability with integrated hub functionality
- High transfer speeds for demanding media workflows
- Excellent durability (IP65, drop-resistant)
- Cable-free direct connection to devices
- Versatile connectivity options with included adapters
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Cons:
- Wireless plug-and-play connection needs firm insertion, which can be tricky initially
- Premium price point due to integrated hub and ruggedness
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User Impressions: Professionals absolutely love the convenience and robustness of this drive. The hub feature is a big hit, turning a simple SSD into a production essential. Users appreciate its reliability in harsh environments and its consistent fast performance for video and photo work.
3. Western Digital 2TB WD Blue SA510 SATA Internal Solid State Drive
The Western Digital WD Blue SA510 is a dependable workhorse designed to breathe new life into older PCs or provide a reliable, cost-effective storage upgrade. While it operates on the SATA III interface, offering speeds up to 560MB/s read, it’s still many times faster than traditional HDDs, making everyday tasks like booting up, loading applications, and transferring files feel snappy. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for solid performance and Western Digital’s renowned reliability without breaking the bank or needing NVMe compatibility.
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Key Features:
- Storage Capacity: 2TB
- Form Factor: 2.5-inch
- Interface: SATA III
- Sequential Read Speed (Up To): 560 MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed (Up To): 520 MB/s
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Pros:
- Excellent upgrade for older systems still using HDDs
- Reliable performance for everyday computing
- Cost-effective 2TB storage solution
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor for wide compatibility
- WD’s trusted brand reputation
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Cons:
- SATA speeds are significantly slower than NVMe drives
- Doesn’t offer the bleeding-edge performance of PCIe Gen4 SSDs
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User Impressions: Customers frequently commend the SA510 for its value and the dramatic speed boost it provides to older laptops and desktops. It’s often chosen for system drive replacements or as a secondary storage drive where NVMe isn’t feasible or necessary. Its reliability is consistently praised.
4. Western Digital 2TB WD Blue SN580 NVMe Internal Solid State Drive
Stepping up the game, the Western Digital WD Blue SN580 offers a significant performance leap with its PCIe Gen 4.0 interface, making it perfect for boosting productivity or handling creative tasks with ease. With read speeds up to 4,150 MB/s, it makes light work of heavy files, further aided by Western Digital’s nCache 4.0 technology for blistering fast copying. This slim M.2 2280 form-factor drive offers ample space for all your applications and media while being power-efficient to maximize laptop battery life, making it a balanced choice for modern systems.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD with up to 4,150 MB/s read speeds (1TB and 2TB models)
- Western Digital’s nCache 4.0 technology for fast copying
- Up to 2TB storage on a slim M.2 2280 form-factor
- Low-power storage to maximize laptop battery life
- NVMe delivers application responsiveness for multitasking
- Rated up to 900TBW (2TB model only) with 5-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Strong PCIe Gen4 performance for daily tasks and creative work
- Excellent endurance rating (TBW) for durability
- Power efficient, great for laptops
- Reliable 5-year warranty from a reputable brand
- Good balance of speed and affordability for Gen4
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Cons:
- Not as fast as top-tier Gen4 NVMe drives (like the Lexar NM790)
- Still requires a PCIe Gen4 slot for full speeds
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User Impressions: Users upgrading from SATA SSDs or older NVMe drives find the SN580 a revelation, noting much faster boot times and application loading. It’s highly recommended for general-purpose computing and light creative work, offering a noticeable performance bump without the premium price of high-end Gen4 models.
5. Western Digital 2TB Elements SE – Portable SSD
The Western Digital Elements SE Portable SSD is all about getting things done quickly and affordably. Designed for those who need fast external storage without breaking the bank, it offers read speeds up to 400MB/s, significantly accelerating file transfers. Its compact design and impressive drop resistance make it a reliable companion for both work and leisure, ensuring your important content is safe and accessible across various devices with simple plug-and-play functionality.
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Key Features:
- Fast yet affordable SSD performance
- Read speeds up to 400MB/s for quick large file transfers
- Compact design and drop resistance up to 2 meters
- Seamless content control across laptop, desktop, and other devices
- Plug-and-play functionality, ready to use out of the box
- Includes USB 3.0 Cable and Safety/Warranty Guide
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Pros:
- Excellent value for a 2TB portable SSD
- Much faster than portable HDDs
- Highly durable with drop resistance
- Simple to use with plug-and-play design
- Great for backups and expanding storage on the go
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Cons:
- Speeds are modest compared to NVMe-based portable SSDs
- Uses USB 3.0, not the faster USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt
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User Impressions: Users praise its affordability and reliability, especially for everyday backups and quick file sharing. The compact size makes it a favorite for travel, and the stated durability gives users peace of mind. Many consider it a great entry-level portable SSD.
6. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
The Lexar ES3 External SSD is built for speed and endurance, making it a compelling choice for users who demand rapid data transfers and robust protection for their files. Boasting speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write, it’s a staggering 9.5 times faster than traditional hard drives, enabling super-fast backups and instant storage expansion. What truly sets it apart is its advanced heat dissipation with double-layer graphite sheets and integrated data protection features like 256-bit AES encryption and a recovery tool, ensuring both performance and peace of mind.
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Key Features:
- 9.5X faster than HDDs with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion
- Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for durability
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Lexar Recovery Tool to help restore accidentally deleted files
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Pros:
- Exceptional transfer speeds for an external drive
- Effective heat management ensures sustained performance
- Robust physical durability and drop resistance
- Broad compatibility with included universal cable
- Added security with hardware encryption and data recovery software
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Cons:
- Faster than the WD Elements SE, but also likely a higher price point
- Heat dissipation, while effective, implies it can get warm under heavy load
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the ES3’s speed and its ability to handle large video files and game libraries without a hitch. The sleek design and the included security features are frequently highlighted as major advantages. It’s a popular choice for media professionals and serious gamers who need fast, secure portable storage.
7. WD_BLACK 2TB SN770 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
For gamers who crave minimal load times and buttery-smooth gameplay, the WD_BLACK SN770 NVMe SSD is a true ally. This internal PCIe Gen4 drive delivers blazing speeds of up to 5,150MB/s, ensuring you get into the action faster and experience less stutter. It’s specifically optimized for gaming, enhancing in-game responsiveness and providing smooth streaming, while offering ample 2TB storage for your expanding game library. With support for Microsoft’s DirectStorage technology and the WD_BLACK Dashboard for optimization, it’s a top-tier choice for a dedicated gaming rig.
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Key Features:
- Blazing speeds up to 5,150MB/s (1TB and 2TB models)
- PCIe Gen4 interface (backwards-compatible with Gen3)
- Fuels in-game responsiveness, minimizes stutter, smooth streaming
- Tons of space for games, updates, and DLC (up to 2TB)
- Supports Microsoft’s DirectStorage technology
- Optimize with WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only)
- Sequential Read Performance – 5150MB/s; Sequential Write Performance – 4850MB/s
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Pros:
- Optimized for gaming with very fast load times
- Strong PCIe Gen4 performance for its class
- Generous 2TB capacity for large game libraries
- WD_BLACK Dashboard enhances gaming experience
- Reliable performance from a trusted gaming brand
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Cons:
- Not the absolute fastest Gen4 drive on the market
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows-only
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User Impressions: Gamers absolutely adore the SN770, citing significantly reduced load screens in demanding titles. Its consistent performance and large capacity make it a staple for high-end gaming PCs. Many appreciate the WD_BLACK software for monitoring and optimizing their drive.
8. Lexar 2TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
The Lexar NS100 is an excellent entry-point for anyone looking to ditch their old hard drive and experience the speed benefits of an SSD. This 2.5-inch SATA III internal drive provides a massive boost to laptop or desktop computers, promising faster startups, quicker data transfers, and snappier application loads with sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s. Its shock and vibration resistance, coupled with no moving parts, ensures superior reliability and durability compared to traditional HDDs, making it a reliable and cost-effective upgrade.
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Key Features:
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
- Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
- Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- [2TB] 960TBW endurance rating
- Three-year limited product support
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Pros:
- Significant performance upgrade over HDDs
- Highly durable with shock and vibration resistance
- Cost-effective solution for large 2TB storage
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor for wide compatibility
- Decent endurance rating for a SATA drive
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Cons:
- Limited to SATA III speeds, much slower than NVMe
- Three-year warranty is shorter than some premium drives
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User Impressions: Customers frequently recommend the NS100 for budget-conscious upgrades, especially for older machines. They highlight the dramatic improvement in system responsiveness and the peace of mind that comes with a robust, silent, and reliable storage solution. It’s often chosen as a primary boot drive or for general data storage.
9. Lexar 2TB NQ780 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
The Lexar NQ780 is a strong contender in the Gen4 NVMe space, delivering robust read/write speeds of up to 7000/5000 MB/s, which translates to lightning-fast gameplay and rapid boot-ups. What truly makes it shine is its high-quality 8-channel Gen4 controller, which, combined with HMB and SLC cache technologies, ensures sustained write performance, improved user experience, and reduced latency. Its single-sided design and Intelligent Power Control also make it an excellent fit for laptops, and Lexar’s DiskMaster SSD Management tool provides essential control and monitoring features.
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Key Features:
- Delivers read/write speeds up to 7000/5000 MB/s
- High-quality 8-channel Gen 4 controller for better sustained write performance
- HMB and SLC cache technologies improve performance and reduce latency
- Great for laptops thanks to its single-sided design and Intelligent Power Control
- Lexar DiskMaster SSD Management tool for firmware updates, data management, and health monitoring
- A 5-year limited warranty offers peace of mind
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Pros:
- Very strong Gen4 performance for gaming and demanding tasks
- Excellent sustained write performance due to advanced controller
- Low latency, enhancing user experience
- Laptop-friendly design with power efficiency
- Useful management software and a solid 5-year warranty
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Cons:
- Not quite as fast as the very top-tier Gen4 drives, but still excellent
- Requires a Gen4 slot to utilize full speeds
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User Impressions: Users upgrading to the NQ780 report significant performance gains across the board, from faster game loading to quicker file transfers. The stability of its performance under load is a frequent highlight, and the DiskMaster tool is appreciated for its utility in keeping the drive optimized.
10. Western Digital 2TB My Passport SSD Portable External Solid State Drive
The Western Digital My Passport SSD combines sleek design with formidable performance and robust security, making it an ideal portable solution for safeguarding and accessing your most important data. Leveraging blazing-fast NVMe technology, it achieves speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write, making quick work of large files. Beyond speed, it offers top-tier data protection with password-enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption and impressive physical durability, including shock and vibration resistance and drop resistance up to 6.5ft, ensuring your data is secure wherever you go.
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Key Features:
- Blazing fast NVMe technology with speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Password enabled 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Shock and vibration resistant, drop resistant up to 6.5ft (1.98m)
- Cross Compatible USB 3.2 Gen-2 and USB-C (USB-A for older systems)
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Pros:
- Exceptional NVMe-level portable speeds
- Superior data security with hardware encryption
- Outstanding physical durability and shock resistance
- Broad compatibility with USB-C and USB-A (adapter often included or integrated)
- Stylish and compact design
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to NVMe performance and security features
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port for maximum speed
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User Impressions: This drive is a favorite among users who prioritize both speed and security for their portable data. Professionals and travelers appreciate its robust build and encryption, while its swift transfer rates make it ideal for editing on the go. Many praise its premium feel and reliable performance.
Final Thoughts on Your 2TB SSD and Allocation Unit Size
Choosing the right 2TB SSD, whether it’s a super-fast Lexar NM790 NVMe or a reliable Western Digital My Passport portable drive, is a fantastic first step towards boosting your system’s performance. But remember, the details matter! While there isn’t a single ‘magic number’ for the Lexar best allocation unit size for Western Digital SSD 2TB, understanding your primary usage scenarios—lots of small files vs. fewer large files—will guide you to the optimal cluster size for formatting your drive.
For most users, sticking with the default 4KB or 8KB is perfectly fine and offers a balanced approach. However, if your 2TB SSD is a dedicated media drive or a gaming library, don’t hesitate to experiment with 16KB or even 64KB for potentially better large-file performance. Always back up your data before reformatting!
By combining a top-tier 2TB SSD with thoughtful allocation unit size optimization, you’ll ensure your storage solution truly performs at its peak, providing faster load times, smoother workflows, and enhanced data efficiency.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is allocation unit size, and why is it important for my 2TB SSD?
A1: Allocation unit size, also known as cluster size, is the smallest block of disk space that the file system can allocate to hold a file. It’s crucial because it impacts both performance and storage efficiency. A smaller size is better for many small files (less wasted space), while a larger size can improve performance for very large files (faster read/write of big chunks) but might waste space with small files.
Q2: Is there a specific “Lexar best allocation unit size for Western Digital SSD 2TB”?
A2: No, there isn’t a brand-specific “best” allocation unit size. The ideal size depends more on your primary usage of the drive, regardless of whether it’s a Lexar or Western Digital 2TB SSD. For most users, 4KB or 8KB is a good general-purpose choice. For dedicated large-file storage (like video editing or gaming), 16KB or 64KB might be better.
Q3: What is the recommended allocation unit size for a gaming SSD (2TB)?
A3: For a 2TB gaming SSD, where games often consist of very large files, a larger allocation unit size like 16KB or even 64KB can sometimes improve performance by allowing the drive to read larger chunks of data more efficiently. However, the default 4KB or 8KB is still widely used and performs well. If you’re building a dedicated gaming drive, testing different sizes might yield marginal gains.
Q4: How do I change the allocation unit size on my SSD?
A4: You change the allocation unit size during the drive formatting process. In Windows, you can do this via Disk Management or during the installation of the operating system. Right-click the drive, select “Format,” and you’ll see a dropdown menu for “Allocation unit size.” Be aware that formatting a drive will erase all data on it, so always back up important files first!
Q5: What file system should I use with my 2TB SSD, and how does it relate to allocation unit size?
A5: For Windows systems, NTFS is the standard and recommended file system. For macOS, APFS (or HFS+ for older systems) is used. For cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux, smart TVs), exFAT is a good choice, but it lacks some of the robust features of NTFS or APFS. The allocation unit size setting is available when you format with any of these file systems. NTFS defaults to 4KB, which is suitable for most users.
Q6: Can a larger allocation unit size cause wasted space on my 2TB SSD?
A6: Yes, a larger allocation unit size (e.g., 64KB) can lead to wasted space, often called “slack space.” If you save a small file (e.g., 1KB) to a drive formatted with a 64KB allocation unit size, that file will still occupy a full 64KB block, meaning 63KB of space is unused but unavailable for other files. This is why a smaller size (4KB or 8KB) is generally recommended if you store many small files.
Q7: Does the type of SSD (NVMe vs. SATA) affect the best allocation unit size?
A7: Not directly. The “best” allocation unit size is primarily determined by the types of files you store and how you use the drive, rather than the interface technology (NVMe vs. SATA). However, NVMe drives are inherently much faster, so any marginal performance gains or losses from allocation unit size will be relative to their already high speeds.
Q8: What is TBW, and why is it important for a 2TB SSD?
A8: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s an endurance rating for SSDs. It indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its reliability may start to degrade. For a 2TB SSD, a higher TBW (like 900TBW or 1500TBW seen in these reviews) means the drive is designed to handle more data writes, which is important for longevity, especially for users who frequently write large amounts of data (e.g., video editors, heavy gamers).