When you save a 1KB text file, the SSD cannot just write 1KB. It must read an entire block (usually 4MB), modify the 1KB in cache, erase the block, and rewrite it. This multiplies the actual physical writes by 3x to 10x. If the calculator doesn't ask for your OS and workload type (database vs. media storage), it is lying.
This is "Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology" built into the drive. It tracks real-time health, such as "Total Host Writes" and "Percentage Life Used". How to Check Your Current Usage ssd life expectancy calculator
For a more accurate, automated report, several tools can read your drive's SMART data and perform these calculations for you: CrystalDiskInfo (Windows) The gold standard for monitoring health. It displays Total Host Writes When you save a 1KB text file, the SSD cannot just write 1KB
, which you can compare against your manufacturer's TBW rating. If the calculator doesn't ask for your OS
If you Google "SSD life expectancy calculator," you will find simple web forms asking: "Drive capacity? GB writes per day? Years used?"