Introduction

Kingston is the largest memory vendor in the world, so it comes as no surprise that they are also a big player in the solid state storage market.

Their HyperX DDR memory is well known to deliver good performance and overclockability for enthusiasts, which is why the company chose to brand their latest SSD as "HyperX". Like many other SSD vendors, Kingston is using an SSD controller from SandForce, which pretty much guarantees excellent performance.

The Kingston HyperX SSD is available in capacities of 120 GB and 240 GB, we tested the 240 GB model.

Packaging

Kingston's SSD comes in a large package with very appealing design.


You will receive:

• The SSD
• Screw Packages
• 2.5" to 3.5" adapter
• External SSD case
• Kingston screwdriver kit (looks like a ballpen)
• Software CD
• SATA and USB cable

The Drive

The drive conforms to the dimensions set forth by the 2.5" form factor. It uses a rugged metal casing that feels extremely solid and high quality.


Like most recent SSDs, Kingston's HyperX uses the SATA 6 Gbps interface. It is compatible with any other SATA standard, but will work at reduced performance in such a case.
Kingston's SSD was also the first one that I had difficulties with the disassembly. Instead of normal Philips or Torx screws they use Torx security which are basically impossible to handle without the right tools. For the normal user this shouldn't matter, but it shows that Kingston really doesn't want you opening their drive.


Kingston is using 16 flash chips and the Sandforce flash controller, which is located in the middle of the PCB. An additional DRAM cache chip, like other SSDs use for additional caching, is not available.


As controller the recently released Sandforce SF-2281 is used.


The 16 flash chips are made by Intel and have a capacity of 16 GB each, they are produced in a 25 nanometer production process.