Western Digital’s WD Blue SN5100 is a PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD built for creators and pros who need quick project loads and fast copies. It tops out at 7,100 MB/s reads and 6,700 MB/s writes on the 1TB and 2TB models, and comes in 500GB, 1TB and 2TB capacities.
It uses SanDisk QLC 3D CBA NAND and an M.2 2280 form factor. A 5-year limited warranty, Acronis migration software and the SanDisk Dashboard app round out the basics. The datasheet is dated July 2025.
Specs at a glance
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe. Form factor: M.2 2280.
- Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB. Model numbers: WDS500G5B0E-00CPE0, WDS100T5B0E-00CPE0, WDS200T5B0E-00CPE0.
- Sequential (1TB–2TB): up to 7,100 MB/s read, 6,700 MB/s write. 500GB: up to 6,600/5,600 MB/s.
- Random (1TB–2TB): up to 1M IOPS read, 1.3M IOPS write. 500GB: up to 660K/1.1M IOPS.
- NAND: SanDisk QLC 3D CBA.
These are the core performance figures that guide upgrade choices. The 1TB and 2TB variants deliver the headline speeds and IOPS. The 500GB model is slower, which is typical for lower-capacity SSDs. If you’re moving lots of large media files or big game installs, the higher capacities will feel snappier.
For creators and pros
WD positions SN5100 for AI-enabled workflows and high-res content work. That means faster asset loads and quicker export times.
- Target audience: creators and professionals, including those working with 8K video and large image sets.
- Workflow boost: quick project copies using nCache 4.0.
- Form factor: simple single-sided M.2 2280 for compact builds.
If you’re editing timelines, batch-processing RAW files, or juggling After Effects caches, the combination of high sequential throughput and strong random write IOPS on the 1TB and 2TB models is what helps keep scrubbing and exports responsive. The nCache 4.0 layer is designed to smooth bursts during big copies.
Endurance, power and thermals
You get clear limits on write endurance, plus practical power draw for laptops.
- TBW: 500GB 300 TBW; 1TB 600 TBW; 2TB 900 TBW.
- Typical power: read 3.8/3.9/4.1 W; write 3.8/3.9/4.1 W (500GB/1TB/2TB). Idle 4 mW.
- Operating temp: 0–85°C (drive reported). Storage: −40–85°C. Shock: 1,500G.
The TBW figures align with QLC-based client drives. For heavy daily writes, plan around those limits. Power numbers suggest modest thermals, but small M.2 sticks still run hot in tight cases. Use a motherboard heatsink if you have one, especially for sustained writes.
Software, warranty and support
The bundle focuses on setup and monitoring.
- Acronis True Image for SanDisk helps migrate data to the new SSD. Download within 90 days.
- SanDisk Dashboard lets you check health and firmware.
- Warranty: 5-year limited, or until TBW is reached.
- Support and downloads: sandisk.com/support. Also see sandisk.com.
This is a practical set of tools. Clone your old drive, insert this one, and then monitor SMART data and firmware via the Dashboard. The licence window for Acronis is time-bound, so plan your swap early.
Compatibility, security and build
SN5100 fits most modern desktops and laptops with an M.2 slot.
- Requires a PCIe Gen4-capable motherboard for peak speeds; backwards compatible with Gen3 and Gen2.
- Security features include TCG Pyrite 2.01 and ATA Security passthrough over NVMe.
- Certifications include CE, FCC, UKCA and more. Dimensions: 80 x 22 x 2.38 mm; 5.7 g.
If your board is Gen3-only, the drive will still work, just at Gen3 speeds. Check BIOS updates if the drive is not detected. Builders in regulated environments will appreciate the certification spread.
FAQs
What speeds do the 1TB and 2TB models reach?
Up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,700 MB/s write, with up to 1M/1.3M random read/write IOPS.
Will it work on a PCIe Gen3 motherboard?
Yes. You need Gen4 for peak speeds, but it is backwards compatible with Gen3 and Gen2.
What software and warranty come with the drive?
A 5-year limited warranty (or until TBW is reached), Acronis True Image for data migration, and the SanDisk Dashboard for monitoring and updates.
