WD Black SN7100 Gaming | 1TB | 7,250MB/s Read | M.2 2280 | PCIe Gen4
Laptop-optimized single-sided design with flagship gaming load timesCondition: New
Note that the price and availability are subject to change without prior notice
WD Black SN7100 NVMe SSD delivers gaming-class performance that transforms load times and gameplay responsiveness through read speeds reaching 7,250MB/s, bringing professional-level storage performance to Kenyan gamers, content creators, and power users who demand the fastest PCIe Gen4 speeds for intensive applications. This high-performance gaming drive combines Western Digital's Polaris 3 controller with Kioxia BiCS8 218-layer TLC NAND and single-sided M.2 2280 design, backed by a comprehensive 5-year warranty starting at KSh 13,500 for the 1TB model, now available in stock at Mascom International, Old Mutual Building, First Floor Room 4, Kimathi Street, Nairobi. Unlike mainstream PCIe Gen4 drives that reach 5,000MB/s, the WD Black SN7100 achieves 45% faster sequential read performance while maintaining 100% better power efficiency compared to the previous generation SN770, making it the ideal choice for gaming laptops, desktop PCs, and handheld gaming devices common throughout Kenya's growing gaming community. Users consistently report game loading times cut by 50% or more, Windows boot times under 7 seconds, and sustained high-speed performance during intensive gaming sessions that previous drives struggled to maintain.
WD Black SN7100 addresses the demanding needs of serious gamers, content creators, and power users throughout Kenya who need professional storage performance for AAA games with massive file sizes, video editing workflows, and intensive multitasking scenarios. The drive delivers 35% faster performance than the previous generation through careful engineering that balances speed, power efficiency, and thermal management - crucial factors for laptop gaming where cooling capacity proves limited compared to desktop systems. The single-sided component layout ensures compatibility with thin gaming laptops, compact desktop builds, and gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally, while the DRAM-less design using Host Memory Buffer technology maintains high performance without increasing power consumption or heat output. With capacities up to 4TB, the WD Black SN7100 provides enough space for your entire game library including Call of Duty's 200GB+ installations, multiple AAA titles, content creation projects, and operating system without constant file management across Kenya's gaming setups, creative workstations, and high-performance computing environments.
WD Black SN7100 proves that PCIe Gen4 gaming performance doesn't require excessive power consumption or premium pricing when engineered specifically for laptop and handheld gaming scenarios. The impressive 7,250MB/s read speeds match or exceed many DRAM-equipped drives while consuming significantly less power - a critical advantage for gaming laptops where battery life directly impacts mobile gaming sessions. The comprehensive 5-year warranty from Western Digital provides long-term confidence for gamers and professionals who push their storage drives hard through daily gaming, content creation, and intensive file operations. At Mascom International, we're seeing tremendous interest from competitive gamers upgrading their systems, content creators building video editing workstations, and laptop users wanting desktop-class performance in portable systems - this drive delivers flagship speeds at realistic prices. Experience the reduced game loading times, test the blazing transfer speeds, and evaluate the slim form factor firsthand at our Nairobi showroom, now in stock across multiple capacity options, or take advantage of our secure countrywide delivery service with payment-on-arrival anywhere in Kenya.
What makes this gaming SSD different from standard Gen4 drives?
WD Black SN7100 achieves read speeds up to 7,250MB/s - approximately 45% faster than standard Gen4 drives like the WD Green SN3000 that reach 5,000MB/s. This speed difference translates directly to gaming performance improvements, with modern AAA games loading 30-50% faster, level transitions happening almost instantly, and asset streaming during gameplay remaining smooth even in demanding open-world titles. The Western Digital Polaris 3 controller and Kioxia BiCS8 218-layer NAND work together to deliver sustained high performance during extended gaming sessions, unlike budget drives that throttle performance when temperatures rise during intensive use. For competitive gamers playing esports titles, content creators working with 4K video footage, and power users running virtual machines or professional applications, the performance difference proves immediately noticeable during everyday workflows common throughout Kenya's gaming and creative communities.
How fast does the WD Black SN7100 actually perform during gaming?
The drive achieves sequential read speeds up to 7,250MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900MB/s in the 1TB and 2TB models, translating to practical gaming improvements you'll notice every session. Modern AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 , Assassin's Creed Valhalla, and Call of Duty load in 10-15 seconds compared to 30-45 seconds with SATA SSDs or hard drives. Fast travel and level transitions happen in 2-3 seconds instead of 10+ seconds, while open-world games stream assets smoothly without texture pop-in or stuttering during high-speed movement. The 100% better power efficiency compared to the previous SN770 means gaming laptops maintain performance longer on battery power - crucial for LAN parties or gaming away from power outlets. Real-world testing shows the WD Black SN7100 loads 243GB of game files in under 2 minutes, handles simultaneous downloads and gameplay without performance degradation, and maintains consistent speeds even when the drive reaches 70-80% capacity across Kenya's gaming environments.
Which capacity should gamers choose for modern game libraries?
The 500GB model at KSh 9,500 works for casual gamers focusing on a few favorite titles or competitive esports players who maintain 3-5 games installed simultaneously. The 1TB option at KSh 13,500 suits most serious gamers who need space for Windows, 6-10 AAA games, productivity applications, and content - this capacity proves ideal for university students, competitive gamers, and users who manage their libraries actively. The 2TB capacity at KSh 20,500 serves content creators, hardcore gamers maintaining 15+ installed games, and users who refuse to uninstall titles to make space for new releases. The 4TB option (pricing available in-store) targets professional content creators, gaming enthusiasts with massive libraries, and users who want every game installed simultaneously. Modern AAA games average 80-150GB each, with titles like Call of Duty exceeding 200GB, so calculate your current library size plus 6-8 upcoming releases to determine the right capacity for 2-3 year usage periods common with SSD ownership in Kenya.
How does the DRAM-less design affect gaming performance?
The WD Black SN7100 uses Host Memory Buffer technology instead of dedicated DRAM, borrowing a small portion of your computer's RAM for caching operations. In practical gaming scenarios, this design proves nearly identical to DRAM-equipped drives for sequential operations like game loading and large file transfers, while saving power and reducing heat output - both critical for gaming laptops. Independent testing shows the WD Black SN7100 outperforms many DRAM-equipped Gen4 drives in real-world game loading tests, application launches, and sustained transfer operations. The only scenario where dedicated DRAM provides advantages involves extremely demanding random write operations at high queue depths - situations rarely encountered during actual gaming or content creation workflows. For the vast majority of gamers and creators in Kenya, the WD Black SN7100's DRAM-less design delivers flagship-level performance while improving battery life and thermal characteristics compared to traditional DRAM designs.
What thermal management considerations apply for gaming laptops?
The single-sided design concentrates all components on one side of the drive, making it easier to cool effectively in space-constrained laptop environments. The drive operates within 0°C to 80°C temperature ranges, with real-world testing showing temperatures between 45-50°C during idle and 60-68°C during intensive gaming or file transfers when properly cooled with a motherboard heatsink. Most modern gaming laptops and motherboards include M.2 heatsinks that maintain temperatures well below throttling thresholds during typical gaming sessions lasting 2-4 hours. The improved power efficiency compared to the previous generation reduces heat output by approximately 30% during maximum load scenarios, making the WD Black SN7100 particularly well-suited for thin gaming laptops with limited cooling capacity. For desktop users, standard motherboard heatsinks prove adequate, though high-performance third-party M.2 coolers can further reduce temperatures during sustained content creation workloads or extended gaming marathons common in Kenya's gaming cafes and competitive environments.
How does this compare to the WD Black SN850X flagship model?
The WD Black SN7100 uses a modern DRAM-less design that achieves nearly identical gaming performance to the flagship SN850X while consuming significantly less power and generating less heat. In real-world game loading tests, the performance difference measures 2-3% at most - imperceptible during actual gameplay. The SN850X features dedicated DRAM and reaches slightly higher random write speeds under specific synthetic benchmarks, but these advantages rarely manifest during gaming, content creation, or typical desktop usage patterns. The WD Black SN7100's single-sided design fits more systems including gaming handhelds and ultra-thin laptops where the SN850X's components won't physically fit. For most gamers and creators in Kenya, the WD Black SN7100 delivers 95% of flagship performance at approximately 60% of the cost, representing better value unless you specifically need the absolute maximum random write performance for database operations or server applications.
Where can I buy this in Nairobi now that it's available?
WD Black SN7100 NVMe SSD is now available in stock at Mascom International, located at Old Mutual Building, First Floor Room 4, Kimathi Street, Nairobi CBD. You can examine the gaming-focused design, discuss capacity options for your specific game library needs, and receive expert guidance on thermal management for your laptop or desktop system at our shop. We stock multiple capacity options: 1TB at KSh 13,500, 2TB at KSh 20,500, and 4TB (pricing available in-store). Our convenient CBD location provides easy access for gamers and content creators with secure parking, comprehensive consultation on gaming storage requirements, and expert recommendations on whether this drive suits your specific gaming rig or laptop model. All drives include complete Western Digital warranty, WD Dashboard software access, and professional installation guidance tailored for your specific gaming setup and performance requirements.
Do you offer delivery throughout Kenya?
We provide comprehensive countrywide delivery service with secure payment on delivery throughout Kenya for all WD Black SN7100 capacity options. Order by phone (+254 708 852 521) or visit our shop, and receive your gaming SSD anywhere in Kenya without any upfront payment requirements. Delivery typically takes 1 business day to major cities like Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru, and up to 3 days for remote locations. This trusted payment-on-delivery system allows you to thoroughly verify you're receiving the genuine Western Digital product with complete warranty coverage before completing your purchase, while ensuring you can upgrade your gaming performance regardless of your location throughout Kenya.
Technical Specifications
Gaming Performance Characteristics
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe 1.4 protocol delivers maximum gaming bandwidth and compatibility with modern gaming motherboards
- Sequential Read Speed: Up to 7,250MB/s (1TB, 2TB, 4TB) and 6,800MB/s (500GB) reduces game loading times by 50% compared to mainstream drives
- Sequential Write Speed: Up to 6,900MB/s (1TB, 2TB) and 5,800MB/s (500GB) ensures fast game installation and update downloads
- Random Read Performance: Up to 1,000K IOPS provides instant application launches and responsive in-game asset streaming
- Random Write Performance: Up to 1,400K IOPS handles simultaneous downloads and gameplay without performance degradation
- Controller: Western Digital Polaris 3 A101-000172-A1 4-channel controller designed specifically for gaming performance
- Technology: Host Memory Buffer design eliminates DRAM while maintaining flagship-level gaming performance
- NAND Flash: Kioxia BiCS8 218-layer 3D TLC NAND ensures sustained performance and long-term reliability
- Performance Boost: 35% faster than previous generation WD Black SN770 in real-world gaming scenarios
- Power Efficiency: 100% better power efficiency at maximum speed compared to previous generation for extended laptop gaming sessions
- Compatibility: Works with PCIe Gen4 and Gen3 systems through automatic backward compatibility
Physical Design and Form Factor
- Form Factor: M.2 2280 industry-standard size fits gaming laptops, desktop motherboards, and handheld gaming devices
- Design Type: Single-sided component layout ensures compatibility with ultra-thin gaming laptops and compact gaming handhelds
- Dimensions: 80mm x 22mm x 2.3mm (3.15" x 0.87" x 0.09") matches standard M.2 slot specifications in modern gaming systems
- Weight: Approximately 6 grams creates negligible impact on gaming laptop weight for mobile gaming scenarios
- Connector: M.2 M-key edge connector provides secure physical connection and prevents incorrect installation
- Heatsink: Drive ships without heatsink - designed for use with motherboard or aftermarket M.2 thermal solutions
- Color Scheme: Distinctive black PCB with WD Black branding signals gaming-focused performance design
Gaming Storage Capacities
- 500GB Option: Adequate space for operating system, 3-5 AAA games, and essential applications at KSh 9,500
- 1TB Option: Comfortable storage for most gamers with room for Windows, 6-10 AAA titles, and productivity software at KSh 14,500
- 2TB Option: High capacity for serious gamers maintaining 15+ installed games and content creation projects at KSh 25,000
- 4TB Option: Maximum capacity for complete game libraries and professional content creation workflows (pricing available in-store)
- Usable Capacity: Actual formatted capacity slightly less than advertised due to standard formatting overhead and SLC cache allocation
Reliability and Gaming Endurance
- Warranty Period: 5-year limited warranty from Western Digital covers intensive gaming use and content creation workloads
- Endurance Rating: 300 TBW (500GB), 600 TBW (1TB), 1,200 TBW (2TB), 2,400 TBW (4TB) represents total data writes throughout drive lifespan
- MTBF Rating: 1.75 million hours mean time between failures demonstrates expected reliability for gaming applications
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 80°C ensures reliable performance during extended gaming sessions with proper cooling
- Non-Operating Temperature: -40°C to 85°C allows safe storage during shipping and between gaming sessions
- Shock Resistance: 1,500G maximum shock tolerance protects data during gaming laptop transport and LAN party travel
- TBW Translation: 600 TBW rating on 1TB model supports over 10 years of intensive gaming with 50GB daily writes
- Data Integrity: Advanced error correction and power loss protection ensure game saves and content remain safe
Gaming Software and Monitoring
- WD Dashboard: Comprehensive monitoring software provides drive health status, temperature tracking, and firmware updates
- Performance Mode: Software allows tuning for maximum performance or balanced power efficiency based on usage scenario
- S.M.A.R.T. Monitoring: Industry-standard monitoring provides early warning of potential drive issues before failure
- Firmware Updates: Regular updates improve performance, compatibility, and reliability throughout ownership period
- Game Mode Compatibility: Full compatibility with Windows Game Mode and gaming-focused storage acceleration technologies
- Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 and 11, Linux distributions, and other gaming operating systems supporting NVMe storage
Power Efficiency and Battery Life
- Active Power Consumption: Approximately 3.5W maximum during intensive gaming operations - 50% less than previous generation
- Idle Power: Under 30mW during system idle periods maximizes gaming laptop battery life between matches
- Power States: Full support for modern power management states including sleep and hibernation
- Battery Impact: Improved efficiency delivers 15-20% longer gaming laptop battery life during typical gaming sessions
- Thermal Output: Lower power consumption reduces heat generation in space-constrained gaming laptop chassis
- Mobile Gaming: Power efficiency specifically designed for gaming handhelds and portable gaming scenarios
System Compatibility
- Desktop PCs: Compatible with any desktop motherboard featuring M.2 PCIe Gen4 or Gen3 slot
- Gaming Laptops: Fits standard M.2 2280 slots in gaming laptops from ASUS ROG, MSI, Lenovo Legion, HP Omen, and other brands
- Gaming Handhelds: Compatible with Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and other portable gaming devices accepting M.2 2280 drives
- PlayStation 5: Full compatibility as PS5 internal storage expansion meeting Sony's speed requirements
- Desktop Upgrades: Works with PCIe adapter cards for systems lacking M.2 slots
- Generation Support: Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems at Gen3 speeds, forward compatible with Gen5 systems at Gen4 speeds
Package Contents
- WD Black SN7100 NVMe Gaming SSD in selected capacity (1TB)
- Quick installation guide with gaming-focused setup instructions and thermal management recommendations
- Warranty documentation covering Western Digital's 5-year limited warranty terms for gaming use
- WD Dashboard software download information for performance monitoring and drive management
5 Year Warranty
Available now at Mascom International - your trusted gaming storage specialist in Nairobi's central business district. Experience the Gen4 gaming performance, verify M.2 2280 compatibility with your gaming laptop or desktop, and receive expert thermal management guidance at our shop located at Old Mutual Building, First Floor Room 4, Kimathi Street, or benefit from our secure countrywide delivery service with payment on arrival. All capacity options available in stock - 1TB at KSh 13,500, 2TB at KSh 20,500, and 4TB (pricing available in-store). Every drive includes complete Western Digital warranty, WD Dashboard software access, and professional gaming installation support for your complete satisfaction and competitive advantage.
Disclaimer: We can not guarantee that the information on this product is 100% correct
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