A-DATA S592 128GB SSD Review

Manufacturer Page: A-DATA Technology
Part Number: AS592S-128GM-C
TechWiki Info: A-Data S592 128GB-TechWiki
Price: about $440
Warranty: 2 year



In the recent past we have seen the SSD landscape change so quickly and so often that it must truly be a confusing sight for the average computer enthusiast and more so for everyday consumers looking to build their first computer. Not too long ago the Indilinx Barefoot controller was the sole domain of the OCZ Vertex SSD line. Then G. Skill took notice and proceeded to undermine the OCZ Indilinx dominance with their release of the Falcon line of SSDs. More recently, Patriot got into the act as well and actually trounced the competition on the warranty front. Now A-DATA is getting in on the Indilinx action with their release of the S592 line of SSDs.

Surprisingly enough, considering their size A-Data is not that well known of a company here in North America. The reality is they are well known in Asia and actually act as an OEM for quite a few other companies out there and while they are relatively new to the SSD arena. However, since they are ranked as on of the they are one of the global leaders in DRAM and flash memory, they are well positioned to make a foray into the SSD marketplace.

Right now if you want to be a serious contender in the SSD arena an Indilinx controller backed up by a good warranty, availability and customer support is as safe a bet as any. In the time we have had this product, the S592 has gone from nearly impossible to find to sporting widespread availability. The only issue is that the 128GB capacity drive we are reviewing here today is still playing hide and go seek with very few retailers carrying it. If you can find it, expect to pay around $420.

Now that A-Data is entering the fray, the biggest question is: how is A-Data going to differentiate themselves from the competition? We highly doubt that as long as the firmware is up to date (and the NAND used is the same as the rest) that the performance will be lacking. What sub niche are they going to go after? Right now OCZ dominates in the customer support and firmware update area, G. Skill is the usually the most budget friendly and Patriot owns the warranty crown. So what are is A-Data going to go after? We’re not quite sure yet but it is always good to see another competitor come onto the market.