Is the Surface Laptop's 512GB SSD worth the extra cost?

Just how much faster is the 512GB SSD found in the Surface Laptop over the 256GB version and why are they different? Let's talk about performance versus reality.

The Surface Laptop with a Core i5 processor and 256GB solid-state drive (SSD) for storage was the most widely reviewed model across the tech press. I followed up our in-depth review with a look at how the Core i7 variant with Iris Plus graphics improved upon the experience.

Starting on June 30, the top of the line 512GB Core i7 model with 16GB of RAM became available in select markets. The question many had was if that larger SSD was any better than the 256GB version.

Today, we'll find out.

Manufacturers differ between 256 and 512GB

As I noted in my Surface Laptop review, the 512GB SSD found in the top-tier differs from the 256 and 128GB versions.

Specifically, the 128 and 256GB SSDs are made by Toshiba (THNSN) while the 512GB model is Samsung (KUS040202M) commonly referred to as the PM971. That Samsung drive is the same that is found in the new Surface Pro as well. Both options are soldered directly to the motherboard, ideally reducing overhead and saving power too without the need for a space-consuming removable module.

Here is how they differ on paper, according to the manufacturers:

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