SSDs are anticipated to be ultra-fast, transforming your sluggish PC into a responsive monster in seconds. Do you have an SSD from a reputable company like SanDisk but are still encountering SanDisk SSD slow performance issues?

However, you need not worry about the SanDisk SSD slow issue. This article presents straightforward and practical solutions to help you achieve optimal speeds from your SSD.

Why Does SanDisk SSD Become Slow?

Numerous hardware and software issues, along with other factors, could contribute to the slowdown of your SanDisk SSD. However, since hardware problems can be particularly difficult to rectify, opting for a new SSD would be the most efficient solution.

Fortunately, if the hardware is functioning properly, you can still resolve the issue once you determine the cause of the slowdown on your SanDisk SSD. Here are some potential reasons that might explain the SanDisk SSD slowdown issue:

    • The ports you're using are incompatible or incorrect.
    • Limited available SSD disk space.
    • Issues with the PC or SSD firmware.
    • Hibernation is enabled.

Additionally, to identify an SSD slowdown issue, you can utilize an SSD benchmark tool to effortlessly and promptly test the SSD's speed. Now that you have an idea of the potential causes, proceed to the next section to learn how to resolve the problem.

How to Solve SanDisk SSD Slowness - 5 Solutions

The following excellent solutions will assist you in promptly restoring system performance compromised by slow SanDisk SSD speeds:

Check out the step-by-step guides to resolve the 'SanDisk SSD slow' issue:

1. Disable Hibernation

Hibernate, also referred to as Sleep Mode, is particularly advantageous for HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) since it allows applications to load more quickly than when the system is booted from scratch. However, it is not essential for SSDs (Solid State Drives) as they already have sufficiently fast boot speeds and times.

Furthermore, the "Hiberfil.sys" file consumes significant disk space and RAM resources. Therefore, disabling this feature is advisable to free up disk space and enhance SanDisk SSD performance.

Follow the steps below to disable "Hibernate" on your computer:

Step 1. Press the "Start" button and type cmd. (Make sure you run the Command Prompt as an administrator.)

Start CMD

Step 2. Type the following command - powercfg.exe /hibernate off and press the "Enter" key.

command

This disables "Hibernation" and ensures your SSD operates without any slowdowns or performance issues.

2. Align SanDisk SSD Partition

4K alignment enables SSDs to read and write data at the maximum possible speed, ensuring optimal performance. Aligning your SanDisk SSD partition is not complicated. You can utilize a reliable third-party partition tool, such as tools Partition Master, to optimize your drive and enhance system performance efficiently.

After installing it on your system, you simply need to utilize its SSD 4K Alignment feature to clean up junk files, optimize the disk, and eliminate large files. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to use it:

Step 1. Go to "Toolkit" and select "4K Alignment".

Step 2. Select the disk that you want to align. Click the "Start" button.

Your SSD has now been successfully aligned and optimized. You can also utilize Partition Master's built-in feature to remove all unnecessary files, freeing up more disk space and enhancing performance even further.

3. Enable SATA Controller to Run in AHCI Mode

SanDisk's solid-state drive's superior performance is excellently sustained by the AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) mode. The SSD might function and respond sluggishly when this mode is disabled. Hence, it is advisable to switch your SSD from IDE to AHCI mode.

Follow the steps below to enable AHCI mode:

Step 1. Press the "Windows + R" keys on your keyboard and type msconfig. Then, press the "Enter" key.

type msconfig

Step 2. Under the "Boot" tab, select the "Safe Boot" option and click "OK."

safe boot

Step 3. Tap "F2" or "DEL" repeatedly to restart your computer in Safe Mode. Change the "SATA" mode to "AHCI." Save the settings, then exit and reboot.

Step 4. This time, Windows will start in "Safe Mode." Restart your computer and type msconfig again, but this time uncheck the "Safe Boot" option under the "Boot" tab.

This ensures that the "SATA" controller is operating in "AHCI" mode, providing the best possible performance for your SSDs. You can also run an SSD Performance Test to verify the effectiveness of this method.

4. Securely Erase SanDisk SSD

If you haven't been able to fix the SanDisk SSD slow issue yet, another practical approach to enhance its performance is to erase all data on the SSD. You can completely wipe the data on a hard drive using the Secure Erase method, which employs a specific set of commands.

Tools like Partition Master simplify the command-line process and can assist in securely erasing data without harming the SSD. Consequently, you can easily cleanse your SSD, even if you are a beginner.

Since all data will be erased entirely, this method is also advantageous if your SSD is contaminated with malware or a virus. To clean a SanDisk SSD and resolve its slow performance issue, follow these steps:

Step 1. Run BitWiper tool. Click on the "Wipe Disk" tab.

wipe disk 1

Step 2. Select the targeted HDD or SSD to wipe.

Notice: Please ensure you have selected the correct HDD or SSD. Once the wiping process begins, your data will be irretrievably lost.

wipe disk 2

Step 3. Select Wiping Method and click "Next".

Select a suitable wiping method.推荐使用安全擦除工具!

wipe disk 3

Step 4. Read the warning message and tap "Wipe" to confirm.

wipe disk 4

Step 5. Wait for the erasing process to finish and then click "Done".

Wipe disk 5

5. Check the SanDisk SSD Port

The port on your computer for connecting the SSD should be compatible with the SSD. The fastest speeds can be achieved through a USB-C, Thunderbolt, or USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port, with NVMe for external SSDs, and M.2 SSDs. If you use an older port like USB 2.0 or below, the data transfer speed will inevitably be slower.

Furthermore, make sure the port and cable you are utilizing are functioning properly to avoid any connectivity issues during the usage of the SanDisk SSD.

Conclusion

After prolonged usage, electronic devices such as SSDs may experience performance degradation and become slower. Generally, this issue occurs when the SSD's storage capacity is fully utilized or the SSD partition is improperly aligned. In such scenarios, tools like Partition Master prove to be the optimal solution.

The app assists you in checking SSD health and optimizing it for optimal overall performance. Furthermore, this article guides you on how to resolve issues with your SanDisk SSD's slow speed and regain its full performance.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Slow SanDisk SSD

If your questions still haven't been answered, review these FAQs to get them resolved.

1. Is SanDisk SSD fast? Yes, SanDisk SSDs are generally known for their fast performance. They utilize flash memory technology, which allows for quicker data access and faster boot-up times compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). SanDisk SSDs offer high read and write speeds, making them suitable for demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, and other intensive applications. However, actual speed may vary depending on the specific model and its capabilities.

Undoubtedly, SanDisk SSDs rank among the finest external solid-state drives available. On average, SanDisk SSDs offer read and write speeds ranging from 500 MB/s up to 2000 MB/s, enabling swift data transfers. Consequently, they make an ideal and secure choice for editing and storing high-resolution photographs and videos.

2. Why isn't my SanDisk SSD functioning properly?

Several factors, such as hardware damage or software issues, may contribute to the malfunctioning of your SanDisk SSD. Additionally, outdated device drivers, an uninitialized SSD, insufficient SSD space, the activation of "Hibernation," or a corrupted file system can also restrict its proper functioning. Therefore, it's crucial to monitor your SSD's health and ensure its efficient operation.

3. How long does a SanDisk SSD last?

SSDs are highly reliable due to the absence of any moving components. Most SSDs can endure for 5 years or more, with the most durable options lasting beyond 10 years. However, the lifespan of your SSD can be influenced by the frequency with which you write data to the flash memory.