Introduction

Today, we are reviewing the Crucial MX300 SSD in its largest 2 TB variant, which promises to provide tons of space for all your applications and games. Just like the MX300 750 GB we reviewed a while ago, it is built using Micron 3D TLC NAND, which is paired with a 4-channel 88SS1074 controller from Marvell.

In order to boost TLC chip performance to make up for the ground lost over MLC, Crucial designates a small, variably sized amount of memory as SLC cache, which writes a single bit to each TLC cell instead of every three. While much faster, such a setup is basically a speed vs. size tradeoff. In terms of technology, the SLC cache is identical to that of the MX200 (not BX200).

The MX300 Series is available in capacities of 275 GB, 525 GB, 750 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB. Identically sized M.2 versions are available too, with similar performance, but that doesn't include the 2 TB version in this review.

Packaging and Contents

The Drive

The drive conforms to the dimensions set forth by the 2.5" form factor. It is made out of metal to improve its durability and is only 7 mm thick, which makes it compatible with Intel's Ultrabook specification.


Like most recent SSDs, the Crucial MX300 uses the SATA 6 Gbps interface. It is compatible with any older SATA standard, but will, in such a case, work at reduced performance.


You will find the SSD controller and eight flash chips on the PCB. Two DRAM chips are also present to provide the SSD controller with RAM and soak up write bursts.


The Marvel controller is a new variant with TLC flash support.


The eight TLC flash chips are produced by Micron and are built on a 15 nanometer process.