Closer Look: Patriot Torqx 2 SSD

SSDs are quickly gaining popularity because they work equally well in PC, Linux, or Apple Mac computers. Likewise, they install into both desktop and notebook platforms without modification. For this article Benchmark Reviews is testing the 128GB Patriot Torqx 2 SSD, which is expected to reach speeds of up to 270 MB/s for sequential reads and 230 MB/s sequential writes. The PT2128GS25SSDR model we've received for testing is built using the PHISON PS PS3105-S5 SATA-II SSD controller, and uses a separate 128MB DRAM cache buffer.

Patriot Memory offers three difference capacities for their Torqx 2 series solid state drives (32GB: PT232GS25SSDR, 64GB: PT264GS25SSDR, 128GB: PT2128GS25SSDR, 256GB: PT2256GS25SSDR), and they each use identical metal enclosures. Because Patriot markets the Torqx 2 series as an introductory SSD, storage capacity begins at 32GB and reaches up to 256GB. A 512GB version of the Patriot Torqx 2 is not expected.

The Patriot Torqx 2 SSD is best suited for performance-orientated personal computers, but also works extremely well for SOHO computer systems. If required, the 2.5" Patriot Torqx 2 SSD could also be utilized for mission-critical offsite backup media or high-abuse notebook computer systems. Although Patriot Torqx 2 solid state drives lack an integrated USB Mini-B port which appeared on some early-generation SSDs, the current retail market offers several different 2.5" SATA enclosures that utilize the SuperSpeed USB-3.0 standard for high-performance portable file transfers.

Patriot understands that once installed, the SSD will be hidden away from view inside a notebook computer or desktop workstation, so they've remained conservative towards the design of their solid state drive appearance. Both halves of the enclosure are given a black textured finish, which avoids showing fingerprints or smudges like a gloss surface would. A colorful branding label is attached to the top of the enclosure, denoting model and capacity.

Standard 2.5" drive bay mounting points are pre-drilled and threaded into the Patriot Torqx 2 SSD chassis, which allows for quick upgrade or addition into any existing notebook and other compact computer system. The mounting positions matched up to the drive bracket on my notebook computer, and after only a few minutes I was booting from a restored Windows 7 System Image without a hitch. Unfortunately, this particular Patriot SSD kit lacks a 3.5-to-2.5" tray adapter, so you'll be left to determine the best way to install this drive into desktop computers.

Unlike most Hard Disk Drive (HDD) storage products, SSDs are nearly impervious to impact damage and do not require (or benefit from) any kind of special vibration dampening or shock-proof enclosures Patriot utilizes a standard two-piece metal enclosure for their Torqx 2 series SSDs, which reveals the internal components after removing four small counter-sunk screws located along the sides of this solid state drive. The seam along the sides are covered with 'Warranty Void' labels, which Patriot attaches to warn consumers against taking apart their product. By removing the SSD cover it will also remove your 3-year consumer protection with it, but Benchmark Reviews takes the risk for you and reveals the internal components in our next section.

If you're familiar with previous-generation solid state storage products, you'll notice that the enclosure design hasn't changed much beyond the product decal. While its outward appearance is similar to many other solid state drives on the market, functionality and value packaged inside are considerably more unique. Now that you're acquainted with the basic exterior features of this SSD, it's time to peek inside the metal enclosure and inspect the Phison PS PS3105-S5 SSD internal components...

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