Windows 11 running slow? Microsoft’s ongoing SSD problems could be to blame
NVMe SSD speeds are being halved – but where’s the fix?
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Windows 11continues to suffer from a problem where some NVMe SSDs are running more than 50% slower, andMicrosoftstill hasn’t fixed it. The issue has been plaguing someWindows 11users since theoperating systemwas in beta earlier this year, so the fact that several months later the problem persists has led many people to wonder when Microsoft will release a fix.
AsMSPoweruser reports, a user ran CrystalDiskMark benchmark tests for theSamsung980 Pro SSD and found that random write speeds are drastically cut.
So, if your Windows 11 PC appears to be running slowly and you are using an NVMe SSD, this could be the culprit.
Analysis: Where’s the fix?
When this issue was first identified in the Windows 11 beta, Microsoft acknowledged the problem. However, no fix has been released, and it’s not entirely clear what’s causing the problem, though some people suggest it’s the virtualization-based security of Windows 11 that’s to blame.
Whatever the cause, this is one of the more seriousWindows 11 problemwe’ve seen, and the fact that there has yet to be a fix around three months after it was discovered is concerning. It could mean that a fix is harder to implement. This won’t be welcome news for anyone affected by this problem.
It’s not a good look for Windows 11, either. Microsoft wants more people to upgrade to the new operating system, but ongoing problems like this are just going to put people off. Microsoft will need to come up with a fix, and fast.
Get the best Black Friday deals direct to your inbox, plus news, reviews, and more.
Sign up to be the first to know about unmissable Black Friday deals on top tech, plus get all your favorite TechRadar content.
Matt is TechRadar’s Managing Editor for Core Tech, looking after computing and mobile technology. Having written for a number of publications such as PC Plus, PC Format, T3 and Linux Format, there’s no aspect of technology that Matt isn’t passionate about, especially computing and PC gaming. He’s personally reviewed and used most of the laptops in our best laptops guide - and since joining TechRadar in 2014, he’s reviewed over 250 laptops and computing accessories personally.
Windows 11’s Paint and Notepad apps are getting smart new AI features – though one of the best will be for Copilot+ PCs only
Windows 11 24H2 misery continues, as Microsoft’s buggy update is now breaking printers – especially on Copilot+ PCs
Apple Mac mini (M4, 2024): the best gets better
