The TeamGroup MP44Q 1TB SSD is a compact yet powerful storage solution designed to meet the needs of modern PC builders and gamers. It caters well to users seeking reliable performance without overspending, offering a smart balance between speed, capacity, and efficiency. Built for PCIe 4.0 systems, it integrates seamlessly into desktops and is also compatible with devices like the PlayStation 5.
Its M.2 Type-2280 design fits snugly into a variety of systems, while the inclusion of a graphene heat spreader helps to manage temperatures effectively during heavy workloads. Internally, it uses quad-level cell 3D NAND flash, and despite being DRAM-less, the host memory buffer technology ensures it delivers responsive speeds. The compact form factor and durable build allow for versatile use in both gaming consoles and PCs.
This 1TB model delivers impressive read and write speeds and includes additional features to boost its long-term reliability. With a high endurance rating and access to proprietary monitoring software, users can keep track of the drive’s health with ease. It’s a great option for anyone looking to upgrade or expand their storage without sacrificing quality or speed.
Design and Functionality
The TeamGroup MP44Q 1TB is built using the M.2 Type-2280 standard, a widely adopted form factor that makes it easy to install in most modern systems. Its slim and compact design ensures it won’t obstruct other components, whether in a desktop PC or a console setup.
Operating on a PCIe 4.0 interface and supporting NVMe 1.4, this SSD offers faster data transfer capabilities compared to older generations. This provides a noticeable improvement in load times and overall system responsiveness, especially for demanding applications.
At the core of the drive is the MaxioTech MAP1602A controller, a DRAM-less chip optimised for cost efficiency and performance. By relying on the host system’s memory through host memory buffer (HMB) technology, the drive maintains a snappy user experience without needing its own onboard DRAM.
Storage is handled by YMTC 232-layer QLC 3D NAND flash memory, which helps reduce cost while still offering generous capacity and good performance. This design makes the MP44Q ideal for general computing, gaming, and media tasks where high-speed storage is beneficial.
To help manage heat, the drive is topped with a graphene heat spreader that aids thermal transfer when used in conjunction with a motherboard’s heatsink. While not intended to replace a dedicated heatsink, it does contribute to maintaining stable performance under sustained workloads.
The overall construction feels robust and thoughtfully engineered, especially for a product in this price-to-performance category. With its sleek look and high compatibility, it integrates easily into a variety of system builds.
Key Features
One of the standout features of the MP44Q 1TB is its impressive sequential read speed, reaching up to 7400MB/s. This makes boot-ups, file transfers, and application launches noticeably quicker compared to SATA-based SSDs.
On the write side, it delivers up to 6500MB/s, allowing for efficient data saving and smoother multitasking. Whether moving large video files or installing bulky games, the process is swift and reliable.
Its endurance rating sits at 1024TBW, which means it can handle extensive daily usage over several years without any trouble. This level of durability ensures peace of mind for users who demand longevity from their storage solutions.
The drive comes with TeamGroup’s patented S.M.A.R.T. monitoring software, giving users easy access to drive health, usage stats, and performance metrics. This makes it easier to keep the SSD in optimal condition over time.
A graphene heat spreader is built into the top of the SSD, enhancing heat dissipation by working in tandem with your system’s cooling solution. This not only helps maintain performance but also contributes to the drive’s stability during prolonged use.
The MP44Q’s design is also PlayStation 5 compatible when paired with a low-profile heatsink, meeting both speed and size requirements. This makes it a great option for console users looking to expand storage without sacrificing performance.
Environmentally conscious users will appreciate the recyclable packaging materials, which add an eco-friendly touch to the product. It reflects a broader commitment to sustainability in the tech space.
Backing everything is a five-year limited warranty, providing confidence in the SSD’s build quality and long-term performance. This warranty coverage rounds out an already appealing package for users across different use cases.
Experience Using the Product and Performance
Installing the MP44Q 1TB was straightforward, with the M.2 Type-2280 slotting easily into place on a standard motherboard. Once fitted and detected, it was ready for formatting and use within minutes.
Initial system boot times showed a marked improvement, with Windows loading almost instantly compared to traditional drives. This speed boost carried over to software launches, which became quicker and more responsive.
During everyday use, including web browsing and office work, the drive maintained fluid performance without any hiccups. Even when multitasking with several programs open, the SSD held up well with no lag.
Gaming performance was also noticeably improved, particularly with open-world titles where frequent loading is common. Game installations completed quickly, and in-game load screens were significantly reduced.
File transfers were exceptionally fast, especially when copying large folders of media or game files. The high sequential read and write speeds made moving data from one drive to another feel nearly instantaneous.
Temperature control was also effective thanks to the graphene heat spreader working alongside the system’s built-in heatsink. Even under sustained usage, such as gaming or benchmarking, the drive remained cool and stable.
While the drive is DRAM-less, there was no noticeable lag or performance drop thanks to the use of host memory buffer technology. The system handled caching tasks well, keeping everything running smoothly.
Using the S.M.A.R.T. software provided by TeamGroup was a helpful touch, offering real-time insights into the drive’s condition. The interface was clean and easy to understand, giving peace of mind to those who want to monitor health and performance.
The SSD proved to be a reliable performer during extended sessions, showing no signs of slowdown or instability. From media editing to gaming and basic productivity, it consistently delivered on speed and efficiency.
The MP44Q 1TB offered a seamless and responsive user experience from installation through daily use. It handled a range of workloads with confidence, making it a solid storage upgrade for a wide variety of systems.
Conclusion
The TeamGroup MP44Q 1TB delivers a reliable and high-speed storage solution that suits a variety of users, from everyday PC builders to console gamers. Its strong read and write speeds bring noticeable improvements in both system responsiveness and workflow efficiency.
With its compact M.2 form factor and effective thermal design, it integrates well into most setups, including the PlayStation 5. The graphene heat spreader and host memory buffer technology ensure it runs cool and fast, even without onboard DRAM.
Access to TeamGroup’s monitoring software adds another layer of user-friendly functionality, letting users track performance and drive health with ease. Combined with the endurance rating and warranty, it feels like a well-rounded and dependable option.
The MP44Q 1TB stands out as a practical upgrade that offers both performance and value without unnecessary frills. It’s an excellent choice for users wanting a hassle-free and future-ready storage upgrade.
