When discussing storage, particularly solid-state drives (SSDs), the focus often defaults to theoretical maximums. However, real-world performance is what end-users experience. This was the intention behind the design of the Samsung 990 solid-state drive.
The Samsung 990 is specified as a PCI-Express 4.0 NVMe solid-state drive, boasting sequential read speeds up to 7,250 MB/s and write speeds up to 6,450 MB/s. Additionally, the drive comes with a three-year warranty and features an 800TB TBW rating for the 2TB version, according to Samsung.
Samsung claims that the 990 is a perfect balance of speed, power efficiency, and value. The article investigates these specific claims.
Regarding speed performance, the testing results showed that while the drive had respectable advertised speeds, it was not the fastest PCIe 4.0 drive available. Specifically, read speeds were measured at 7150 MB/s (for the 1TB version), and write speeds were 6450 MB/s.
However, in specific benchmarks, such as ATTO Disk Benchmark, the testing did not reach 6GB/s for either the read or write tests. The review noted that this underperformance with writes is a recurring issue observed across multiple tests, similar to findings from the Samsung 990 Evo Plus review.
In terms of power efficiency, Samsung has reportedly improved this using new V-NAND technology, which has resulted in a power consumption reduction of up to 38% compared to previous models.
Concerning value, the drive is backed by a three-year warranty. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 1TB version is $269.99 and for the 2TB version is $529.99.
Despite these factors, the article suggests that even with current storage prices, the drive still carries a premium because competing PCIe 4.0 drives are available, some offering better performance and a five-year warranty for less money.
The review concludes that while the Samsung 990 is suitable for game drives, secondary drives, or replacing older 2.5-inch SSDs, there were areas where the drive performed below expectations based on testing and offered value.
Overall, the reviewer assigned the Samsung 990 a 7 out of 10 score.
Pros listed include reaching advertised speeds in some tests, not overheating or thermally throttling, being single-sided, and having an all-in-house design by Samsung.
The Cons included underperforming in many tests, only offering a three-year warranty, and the price compared to other drives.
Source: ThinkComputers