PCIe SSD vs SATA SSD

[transparent]

We're looking to build a 3-node hyper-v cluster using Starwind v8. I have a question about SSD and thoughts on the best configurations.

Essentially for the same amount of money we can get a single 480GB PCIe SSD for L2 cache or two SATA-3 based SSD's attached to the RAID controller (480GB x 2 in a RAID 0 config).

Now I understand all of the benifits of PCIe vs SATA in terms of throughput and IOPS, but for the same money I could have twice the amount of L2 cache (960GB of SATA3, vs 480GB PCIe). In theory what would we benifit the most from - having MORE SSD cache, or have half the amount, but much greater speed. The work load is primarily 2012 R2 Terminal servers with minimal CPU, high memory demand, and fairly light disk IO with the exception certain peak times (ie when everybody logs on in the morning).

Thoughts?

[anton (staff)]

More slower L2 cache is better. Go for a pair of SATA SSDs.

[transparent]

That was my gut feeling - thanks for the confirmation.

[Anatoly (staff)]

We are always glad to assist you!