Server SSDs are drives built for servers and workstations that run continuously and handle a heavy stream of requests. Our range includes over 700 models with SATA, SAS and PCI Express interfaces, in 2.5", U.2 and M.2 form factors. Most of the drives come from HP Enterprise, Samsung, Kioxia and Micron.
How to choose a server SSD
Interface. Start by finding out what the server's drive bays and controller support. Serial ATA III (6 Gbit/s) suits simpler systems, SAS (12 Gbit/s) is used in servers with SAS controllers, and PCI Express 4.0 and 5.0 drives are meant for the highest speed and lowest latency. Our range covers all of these, including models with transfer rates of up to 24 Gbit/s.
Form factor. Most of the models we list are 2.5", which fits standard server drive bays. U.2 drives connect over PCI Express and only work in servers with matching bays, while M.2 is often used for a boot drive. Check the form factor before comparing speeds.
Capacity. Drives run from 480 GB to 15 TB: many models are 960 GB, 1.92 TB or 3.84 TB, while 7.68 TB and 15 TB versions suit larger arrays. Estimate your real data volume and leave some free space, because a drive filled to the brim writes more slowly and wears out sooner.
Endurance and memory type. Write endurance is given as DWPD or TBW, and for databases, virtualisation and logging it matters more than peak speed. Our range includes TLC (V-NAND TLC, 3D TLC NAND), MLC and eMLC drives, and MLC and eMLC are usually chosen for write-heavy work. Also check whether the drive has protection against sudden power loss.
Compatibility. Dell, HP Enterprise and Lenovo servers often use vendor-labelled drives and dedicated caddies, so match the part number to your server model. Some drives in the range are also meant for ordinary PCs, but for a server it is safer to choose a model listed in its documentation.
Brands we carry
- HP Enterprise: a server maker whose drives for ProLiant servers make up the largest part of our range.
- Samsung: produces its own NAND memory and controllers, and our range includes its V-NAND TLC models.
- Kioxia: formerly Toshiba Memory, and it was Toshiba that invented NAND flash.
- Micron: makes its own NAND and DRAM memory and sells consumer drives under the Crucial name.
- Solidigm: formed from Intel's NAND and SSD business, with a focus on high-capacity data centre drives.
- Dell and Lenovo: server makers whose drives are intended for their own PowerEdge and ThinkSystem servers.
- Western Digital and Kingston: Western Digital develops both hard drives and SSDs for data centres, while Kingston has a separate Data Center drive series.
Also in our range: GOODRAM and HP.
Frequently asked questions
How is a server SSD different from a regular PC SSD?
A server SSD is designed for continuous operation and steady performance under load. It usually offers higher write endurance, protection against power loss and often a SAS or U.2 interface, which ordinary PCs do not have.
Should I choose SATA, SAS or PCI Express?
The choice depends on the server's controller and drive bays. SATA suits simpler workloads, SAS is used in servers with SAS controllers, and PCI Express (for example in U.2 form) is the one to pick when you need the highest speed and low latency.
Can I use a server SSD in a desktop PC?
Yes, if the drive has an interface your PC supports, such as 2.5" SATA or M.2. SAS drives need a SAS controller, and U.2 drives need a matching connector or an adapter.
How much capacity does a server SSD need?
Enough that the drive is never full, so it is best to leave free space. Our range runs from 480 GB to 15 TB, so you can choose according to your data volume and expected growth.
