Kingston Technology 512GB SSD KC600 mSATA SATA3. This drive offers 512GB of storage, utilizes mSAT...Kingston Technology 512GB SSD KC600 mSATA SATA3. This drive offers 512GB of storage, utilizes mSATA interface with SATA3 connectivity. It features 3D TLC NAND flash memory and XTS-AES 256-bit encryption for enhanced data security. The drive has a physical weight of 7g. It operates with read/write speeds of 550 MB/s and a transfer rate of 6 Gbit/s. Please note that the image provided is for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual product.
Kingston KC600 SSD SKC600/512G Internal SSD 2.5"" SATA Rev 3.0 3D TLC Black.Free delivery in 1–3 days£129.99Visit shop →
Product Information
Full details
This guide is for PC and laptop users seeking to upgrade their storage with a fast, secure, and compact Solid State Drive. The Kingston KC600 512GB mSATA SSD offers remarkable performance with rapid boot and transfer times, enhanced by 3D TLC NAND technology and robust 256-bit AES hardware encryption. A potential caveat for users is the mSATA form factor, which is less common in newer systems and may require specific connectors.
All features
Series
KC600
Model Part Number
SKC600MS/512G
Brand
Kingston
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the difference between mSATA and M.2 SSDs?
mSATA (Mini-SATA) is an older, smaller form factor that uses a SATA interface. M.2 is a newer, more versatile form factor that can use either SATA or NVMe protocols, offering potentially higher speeds and a different physical connector.
Can I use this SSD in a standard 2.5" SSD bay?
No, the KC600 MSATA version is specifically designed for mSATA slots and will not fit or function in a standard 2.5" drive bay without an adapter, which is not typically available for mSATA to 2.5" conversion.
What does '3D TLC NAND' mean?
3D TLC NAND refers to the technology used for the flash memory chips. '3D' means the memory cells are stacked vertically, allowing for higher density and better performance. 'TLC' (Triple-Level Cell) means each cell stores three bits of data, offering a good balance of performance, endurance, and cost.
How does the 256-bit AES hardware encryption work?
Hardware encryption is built directly into the SSD controller. It encrypts and decrypts data on the fly without involving the CPU, providing strong security without a significant performance penalty. This requires specific software or BIOS support to manage.
What is the TBW (Terabytes Written) rating for this SSD?
The TBW rating for the KC600 series is 300 TBW, indicating the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifespan before performance may be affected.
Is this SSD compatible with my laptop?
Compatibility depends on whether your laptop has a dedicated mSATA slot. Please check your laptop's technical specifications or consult its user manual to confirm the presence and type of storage slots.
What is the warranty period for the Kingston KC600 SSD?
Kingston typically offers a limited warranty for their SSDs. While specific terms can vary, for the KC600 series, it is commonly a 5-year limited warranty, provided the drive remains within its TBW limit.
Troubleshooting
SSD not detected by the system
Ensure the SSD is properly seated in the mSATA slot. Check BIOS/UEFI settings to confirm the mSATA port is enabled and configured correctly. Try a different mSATA slot if available.
Slow read/write speeds
Verify that the drive is connected via SATA III (6 Gbit/s) and not limited to SATA II (3 Gbit/s). Ensure the latest storage drivers are installed for your motherboard. Check for background processes consuming drive resources.
System instability or freezing
Confirm the SSD is receiving adequate power (though mSATA draws power from the slot). Ensure the firmware is up to date. Run a disk check utility to scan for errors.
Encryption not enabling or causing issues
Consult the Kingston documentation for specific instructions on enabling and managing the AES 256-bit hardware encryption. Ensure compatibility with your OS and any security software.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Significantly boosts system boot and application load times.
Provides excellent data security with built-in hardware encryption.
Compact mSATA form factor is suitable for specific compact devices.
Offers a good balance of speed, capacity, and security for everyday use.
High IOPS contribute to a smoother multitasking experience.
Cons
mSATA is a less common interface compared to M.2 or 2.5" SATA, limiting compatibility with modern motherboards and laptops.
Requires an available mSATA slot, which may not be present in all systems.
Performance, while good for SATA III, is limited by the interface compared to NVMe SSDs.
Bundle kit for installation is not always included, requiring separate purchase of cables/adapters.
The physical weight is minimal, but the drive itself is quite small, requiring careful handling during installation.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Identify Compatibility: Ensure your motherboard or laptop has an available mSATA slot. This SSD uses the mSATA form factor and SATA III interface.
Installation: Carefully insert the mSATA SSD into the designated slot. It is a small, delicate component; avoid forcing it.
Connection: The mSATA interface provides both data and power connections through the slot itself.
BIOS/UEFI Configuration: Access your system's BIOS/UEFI to recognize the new drive. You may need to set it as the primary boot device.
Operating System Installation: Install your operating system onto the KC600 SSD or clone your existing drive.
Compatibility:
Interface: Primarily compatible with systems featuring an mSATA slot and SATA III support. Check your device's specifications.
Operating Systems: Compatible with most modern operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Care:
Handling: Handle the drive with care to avoid physical damage. Static discharge can harm components; use anti-static precautions.
Environment: Operate the drive within the specified temperature range (0°C to 70°C).
Firmware: Periodically check Kingston's support website for firmware updates that may improve performance or stability. Use Kingston's SSD management tools if available.