CONCLUSION

   Just by taking a look at the charts it’s quite evident that the HyperX 3k has almost zero performance differences with the 5k version since they both win each other in our benchmarks. True i can't really test the lifespan of both drives but all i can say is that for normal users (casual users, gamers and enthusiasts) the 3k p/e cycles featured by this model will not be a problem, at least not for the next 6 or 7 years (if not more). However if you are a photographer or a video editor and you read/write 20-40GB of data per day then even with all the various firmware optimizations 3k cycles should not last over 2-3 years which means that the 5k model is far more suitable for such heavy tasks (unless as mentioned you can afford new drives every 2-3 years). Certainly the same applies for enterprise environments only in that case even 2 years may just be too much to hope for.

   The entire Kingston HyperX 3k 240GB SSD upgrade bundle including both the 3.5" bracket and the 2.5" external USB enclosure currently retails at 309.99 inside the USA (Newegg) and 300Euros inside the EU (Amazon) a price tag which is roughly USD50/40Euros less than what the 5k model retails for currently. There's also the option of purchasing the standalone version of the HyperX 3k 240GB drive and save 10 bucks in the process but i really don't think it's worth it not with such a rich bundle. Overall a price difference of 14% may not seem as much especially for professionals who use such drives to make a living and thus require the best but for casual users, gamers and enthusiasts the HyperX 3k 240GB is a better offer and doesn't lack the performance levels of the 5k model which is enough for it to earn our Platinum award.

PROS

- Build Quality (Intel NAND, Enclosure)
- Performance (Almost Identical To The 5k Model)
- Upgrade Bundle (3.5" bracket/2.5" USB Enclosure)
- Price (For Some)
- 24/7 Support
- 3 Years Warranty 

CONS

- 3k Cycles (Not For Professional/Enterprise Use)