Patriot Torqx 128GB SSD Review

Manufacturer Page: Patriot Memory - Products
Part Number: PFZ128GS25SSDR
TechWiki Info: Torqx 128GB
Price: Click Here to Check Prices
Warranty: 10 years


A little while ago, we mused that if the G.Skill Falcon proved to be a success, other companies would take note and also add the Indilinx “Barefoot” controller to their stable of SSDs. It seems that we were correct as today’s review is proof of the persuasive argument that mighty little powerhouse controller makes. We have with us here today the new Patriot Torqx 128GB which follows in the "Barefoot" footsteps of its competitors. While we highly doubt that this drive will fail to impress, there are bigger questions to be answered. The foremost of these: is there any difference between rebadged brand A versus rebadged brand B Indilinx-controlled SSDs?

We all have to remember that picking an SSD in the past always came down to performance and its ability to sustain this performance over the long haul. Since the base firmware for all of these rebadges come directly from Indilinx and while the individual companies can tweak this firmware (as is the obvious case with the OCZ Vertex line) the tweakability appears to be limited. One way or another, right now it appears performance is not an issue as these Inidilinx-based drives are real door kickers.

When it comes to this article, we will not only being reviewing this drive on its own merits but also taking a long hard look at where the Torqx fits into the Indilinx hierarchy. To this end, we will be looking at: Support (e.g. warranty, forum support and online how to’s and FAQs), ease of Firmware updating (if a difference exists), speed of firmware updates, accessories, and above all else PRICE.

To begin the evaluation lets us preface this review by saying the Torqx is widely available at e-tailers and retailers alike and goes for about $410. Something else that we should mention is the fact that Patriot retroactively increased the length of their warranty on Torqx drives to a shocking 10 years. This puts them head and shoulders above their competition and somewhat justifies the premium price of this drive. But is there any other reason to recommend the Torqx in a field that is already cluttered with options? Let's find out.