Like Samsung, OCZ also uses its own SSD controller. It didn't always do this; in the past, OCZ SSDs used the ubiquitous SandForce controllers. The Vector changes all that, using the company's Barefoot 3, which lacks the AES 256-bit encryption featured on the Samsung 840 PRO. Luckily, nobody really needs it.
OCZ doesn't make memory though, so the Vector comes with 256GB of 25 nanometre MLC NAND from Micron and Intel. Our test sample reported a usable space of 238GB, which gives each gigabyte a cost of $1.21. This quality memory probably explains the generous five year warranty; a must-have, given prior OCZ drives' propensity to self destruct. OCZ also spent six extra months validating and testing the Vector, as it recognises that reliability is an area it could improve in.
Reliability, schmiability. All we care about is how fast this tool is, and given OCZ's stellar reputation for speed we had high hopes. Our tests showed that the Vector tends to be faster than the 840 PRO in the ever-important writing tests, but lagged behind when it came to reading. Writing tends to be more important, except for PC garners, where read performance is preferred. To be honest, these two drives are much of a muchness when it comes to performance. Samsung might be slightly cheaper, but OCZ's five year warranty can't be ignored. No matter what you get, you're going to end up with blazing performance, so it'll all come down to brand preference. Or the toss of a coin.
OCZ Technology 256GB Vector Series SATA 6.0 GB/s 7 mm Height 2.5-Inch SSD with 100K IOPS And 5-Year Warranty- VTR1-25SAT3-256G... view detail here
