One of the constants in computing is the need for more storage. While 8TB SSDs offer both speed and capacity, they can be a bit pricey, although deals are available if you’re willing to shop around. If you need more storage – almost double, in fact – purchasing a 15.36TB SSD often offers better value per terabyte.
For example, the Intel D5-P5316 2.5-inch 15.36TB SSD is available on Amazon for $1,650. It offers write speeds of 3,200 MB/s and read rates of 7,000 MB/s. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, the Kioxia CD6-R KCD6XLUL15T3 is priced at a more affordable $1,397.63. $ on ServerPartDeals. This model offers write speeds of 4,000 MB/s and read rates of 5,500 MB/s.
In contrast, the Samsung 8TB 870 QVO SATA III SSD typically sells for $849.99 on Amazon, although it currently sells for $639.95. Per terabyte, the Samsung SSD costs $106 at regular price and $80 at retail price. The dual-capacity Intel and Kioxia models cost $107 and $91 per terabyte, respectively.
The trap
However, as is often the case, there is a catch.
The Intel and Kioxia drives, like other 15.36TB models, use the U.3 interface, designed specifically for enterprise environments rather than the more common M.2 format used in consumer devices. These drives require a system with U.3 NVMe functionality, which means they cannot be used on standard consumer desktop or laptop computers, making them less accessible to the average user without the setup appropriate.
Despite this, their impressive performance and price per terabyte make them attractive options for professional and enterprise storage needs. If you want to save even more, shopping around and exploring platforms like eBay can sometimes yield even better deals.
At the time of writing, we found the Kioxia CD6-R KCD6XLUL15T3 listed on the auction site for $1,185, which represents a bargain of $77.15 per terabyte – a price that’s hard to ignore.