Different CrystalDiskMark and Samsung Magician scores on the same SSD are usually expected, not evidence that one utility is broken. The programs can use different workloads, queue and thread settings, test-file patterns, cache conditions and target-volume settings. CrystalDiskMark also writes benchmark data to the selected drive, so repeated or oversized runs add wear. Compare results only after matching the conditions and recording them.
What each utility measures
CrystalDiskMark
CrystalDiskMark is a Windows storage benchmark that reports sequential and random read/write throughput. Its documented profiles include sequential 1 MiB workloads and random 4 KiB workloads with defined queue-depth and thread settings. The result is a workload measurement, not a general health score.
CrystalDiskMark reports MB/s as 1,000,000 bytes per second. GiB is a binary unit, so MB/s and GiB-based figures must not be treated as identical units. The official notice also warns that results from different major CrystalDiskMark versions are not compatible.
Samsung Magician
Samsung Magician is Samsung’s drive utility. Its Performance Benchmark can display read and write performance, while Samsung says users can customize conditions such as the volume and chunk size. Available features vary by Samsung memory model. Because Magician is vendor-specific, its defaults and test-file handling need not match CrystalDiskMark’s profile.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- THE SSD ALL-STAR: The latest 870 EVO has indisputable performance, reliability and compatibility built upon Samsung's pioneering technology. S.M.A.R.T. Support: Yes
- EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Enjoy professional level SSD performance which maximizes the SATA interface limit to 560 530 MB/s sequential speeds,* accelerates write speeds and maintains long term high performance with a larger variable buffer, Designed for gamers and professionals to handle heavy workloads of high-end PCs, workstations and NAS
- INDUSTRY-DEFINING RELIABILITY: Meet the demands of every task — from everyday computing to 8K video processing, with up to 600 TBW** under a 5-year limited warranty***
- MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: The 870 EVO has been compatibility tested**** for major host systems and applications, including chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices
- UPGRADE WITH EASE: Using the 870 EVO SSD is as simple as plugging it into the standard 2.5 inch SATA form factor on your desktop PC or laptop; The renewed migration software takes care of the rest
Why the same SSD gets different scores
Match the test conditions first
Before comparing screenshots, record the following for both runs:
| Variable | Why it changes the result |
|---|---|
| SSD model, capacity and firmware | Different capacities, firmware revisions and NAND configurations can perform differently. |
| Interface and negotiated link speed | A PCIe generation, lane-width or SATA-link limit can cap throughput below the drive’s specification. |
| Partition, volume and free space | The tested volume and remaining space affect available flash-management room and the area being tested. |
| Operating-system state and power plan | Background updates, antivirus scans, indexing and power-saving behavior can consume I/O or reduce performance. |
| Temperature | An SSD may throttle after heating, especially during repeated write tests. |
| Utility version and profile | CrystalDiskMark warns that major-version results are not compatible; profiles also select different workloads. |
| Test size and run count | A short run can fit in a burst cache, while a larger or repeated run can expose sustained performance and thermal limits. |
| Queue depth and thread count | Higher parallelism can produce much higher throughput or IOPS than a light desktop workload. |
| Test-data pattern | Random data and zero-filled data can exercise an SSD controller differently, particularly when compression or deduplication behavior is involved. |
Sequential and random rows are different questions
Sequential tests use large, contiguous transfers and are useful for operations such as copying a large file. Random 4 KiB tests use small requests at scattered locations; their score depends heavily on queue depth and thread count and is more relevant to many small-file or application accesses. A sequential read number cannot be converted into a 4 KiB random IOPS number, and there is no universal conversion between a CrystalDiskMark result and a Magician result.
Rank #2
- MEET THE NEXT GEN: Consider this a cheat code; Our Samsung 990 PRO Gen4 SSD helps you reach near max performance with lightning-fast speeds; Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a tech guru, you’ll get power efficiency built for the final boss
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; With a more than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO, it’s here for heavy computing and faster loading
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD'S FLASH MEMORY BRAND: The speed you need for any occasion; With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s you’ll reach near max performance of PCIe 4.0 powering through for any use
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB; Sync all your saves and reign supreme in gaming, video editing, data analysis and more
- IT’S A POWER MOVE: Save the power for your performance; Get power efficiency all while experiencing up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO; It makes every move more effective with less consumption
Cache can make a short test look fast
Many SSDs use a temporary high-speed write cache. If the benchmark’s data fits inside that cache, the displayed write speed may be a burst result rather than the sustained rate after the cache is exhausted. Test size, run count and the drive’s current state determine how much of that behavior appears.
Does CrystalDiskMark write to the SSD?
Yes. CrystalDiskMark creates and writes test data on the selected drive. Its official notice states that benchmarking may shorten SSD or USB-memory life, and its FAQ notes that larger or repeated tests increase the amount written. Benchmark writes are not the same thing as the drive’s rated lifetime endurance.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsRank #3
- THE SSD ALL-STAR: The latest 870 EVO has indisputable performance, reliability and compatibility built upon Samsung's pioneering technology.Computer Platform:PC.Encryption : Class 0 (AES 256) TCG/Opal v2.0, MS eDrive (IEEE1667), Environmental Specs - Shock : 1,500 G & 0.5 ms (Half sine).
- EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Enjoy professional level SSD performance with 870 EVO, which maximizes the SATA interface limit to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds, Accelerates write speeds and maintains long term high performance with a larger variable buffer
- INDUSTRY DEFINING RELIABILITY: Meet the demands of every task from everyday computing to 8K video processing, with up to 2,400 TBW
- MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: 870 EVO has been compatibility tested for major host systems and applications, including chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices. Interface- SATA 6GB/s, compatible with SATA 3GB/s and SATA 1.5GB/s interfaces
Run a useful test with less unnecessary wear
- Select the intended volume carefully and close applications that could generate competing I/O.
- Use the smallest test size and run count that answer your question; do not loop a full-drive benchmark for routine checking.
- Keep the test profile, utility version, queue/thread settings and date with the result so a later run is comparable.
- Allow the SSD to cool between repeated runs if temperature or throttling is a concern.
- Use a sustained or larger test only when you specifically need to investigate cache exhaustion or long transfers.
How to compare Magician and CrystalDiskMark correctly
- Identify the exact SSD model, capacity, firmware, interface generation and negotiated link speed.
- Test the same volume, or document why the volumes differ, and record free-space percentage.
- In CrystalDiskMark, note the major version, selected profile, test size, run count and the sequential and random queue/thread rows.
- In Magician, use Performance Benchmark and record the selected volume, chunk size and any other displayed conditions. Do not assume its defaults mirror CrystalDiskMark.
- Run under the same operating-system state and power plan, with background scans and large transfers stopped.
- Record temperature before and after each run. If one utility runs first, let the drive return to a similar idle temperature before the second.
- Compare like with like: sequential read against sequential read, sequential write against sequential write, and matching random block size and parallelism where the utilities expose them.
If a setting cannot be matched, label the results as separate workloads rather than applying a correction factor. No official source establishes a reliable cross-tool conversion.
Are your sequential and 4 KiB results normal?
Sequential results
Use the SSD manufacturer’s published maximum as an upper reference, not a guaranteed result for every computer. The interface, firmware, temperature, free space, operating-system activity and cache state can all lower an observed score. A system with a slower PCIe link cannot reproduce the maximum of a drive designed for a faster link.
Rank #4
- HUGE SPEED BOOST: Get random read/write speeds that are 40%/55% faster than 980 PRO; Experience up to 1400K/1550K IOPS, while sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s reach near the max performance of PCIe 4.0*
- BREAKTHROUGH POWER EFFICIENCY: Use less power and get more performance; Enjoy up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO, plus optimal power efficiency with max PCIe 4.0 performance**
- SMART THERMAL CONTROL: Samsung's own nickel-coated controller delivers effective thermal control; With its slim size, 990 PRO is a perfect fit for desktops and laptops that meet the PCI-SIG D8 standard***
- THE CHAMPION MAKER: Up to 65% improvement in random performance enables faster loads for an ultimate gaming experience on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games****
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Get the most out of your SSD with Samsung Magician's advanced yet intuitive optimization tools; Monitor drive health, protect valuable data, and receive important updates for your 990 PRO
4 KiB random results
There is no single normal 4 KiB score. Queue depth and thread count can change it by a large amount, and a low-queue desktop workload is not comparable with a high-queue vendor IOPS figure. Check that the row’s block size, queue depth, thread count and unit match before deciding that a result is abnormal.
When a low result deserves investigation
- The negotiated link is narrower or slower than the SSD requires.
- The drive is nearly full, hot enough to throttle, or busy with background work.
- Firmware, chipset or storage drivers are outdated or operating in an unexpected controller mode.
- The test is too small to represent sustained behavior, or the cache state differs between runs.
- The CrystalDiskMark major version, profile or test-data pattern changed.
One low score alone does not establish drive failure. Reproduce it with documented settings, then check these conditions and the SSD’s diagnostic information.
Best Value
- THE SSD ALL-STAR: The latest 870 EVO has indisputable performance, reliability and compatibility built upon Samsung's pioneering technology. S.M.A.R.T. Support: Yes.Specific uses: Business, personal
- EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Enjoy professional level SSD performance which maximizes the SATA interface limit to 560 530 MB/s sequential speeds,* accelerates write speeds and maintains long term high performance with a larger variable buffer
- INDUSTRY-DEFINING RELIABILITY: Meet the demands of every task — from everyday computing to 8K video processing, with up to 600 TBW** under a 5-year limited warranty***
- MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: The 870 EVO has been compatibility tested**** for major host systems and applications, including chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices
- UPGRADE WITH EASE: Using the 870 EVO SSD is as simple as plugging it into the standard 2.5 inch SATA form factor on your desktop PC or laptop; The renewed migration software takes care of the rest
Example: interpreting Samsung 990 PRO specifications
Samsung’s 990 PRO is a PCIe Gen 4.0 x4, NVMe 2.0 M.2 2280 SSD using Samsung V-NAND TLC. Samsung’s 2022 launch specifications list these vendor maximums:
| Specification | Published figure | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Sequential read | Up to 7,450 MB/s | Compare only with a sequential-read test on a system that can provide the required PCIe bandwidth. |
| Sequential write | Up to 6,900 MB/s | Short tests may reflect burst cache rather than long sustained writing. |
| Random read | Up to 1,400K IOPS | Queue depth, thread count, block size and test conditions must match. |
| Random write | Up to 1,550K IOPS | This is a vendor maximum, not a typical result for every PC or workload. |
| Warranty | Five-year limited warranty | Warranty terms are separate from an individual benchmark run. |
| Endurance | 600 TBW (1 TB), 1,200 TBW (2 TB), 2,400 TBW (4 TB) | TBW is a lifetime-rated endurance figure; it is not the amount written by one benchmark. |
What to include when publishing or saving a result
Put the SSD model and capacity, firmware, interface and link speed, free-space state, temperature, operating-system state, utility name and version, profile, test size, run count, queue depth, thread count, block size and test-data pattern beside the numbers. This record makes a second run meaningful and prevents a vendor maximum, a cache burst and a sustained result from being mistaken for the same measurement.
The practical verdict is straightforward: CrystalDiskMark and Samsung Magician are measuring defined but potentially different workloads, and CrystalDiskMark does write test data. Match conditions before comparing scores, treat vendor figures as maxima, and investigate repeatable low results only after checking link speed, thermals, free space, firmware, background activity and cache behavior.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
