Samsung has introduced a new addition to its consumer SSD lineup with the launch of the 990 SSD, targeting gamers, creators, and mainstream PC users looking for high-end PCIe 4.0 storage without stepping up to the flagship Pro models.
Coming in 1TB and 2TB capacities and promises sequential read speeds of up to 7,250MB/s on the 2TB model and 7,150MB/s on the 1TB version, both drives deliver write speeds of up to 6,450MB/s. The new Samsung 990 SSD is a DRAM-less SSD with QLC NAND and an updated controller, reaching random performance of up to 850,000 read IOPS and 1.2 million write IOPS on the 2TB model, while the 1TB version is rated for up to 700,000 read IOPS and 1.1 million write IOPS.
Samsung says the drive is designed to handle everything from large game libraries and content creation workloads to everyday productivity tasks and DIY PC upgrades. According to the company, the 2TB version can hold around 30 modern AAA games based on an average installation size of 64 GB.
One of the main improvements comes in power efficiency. Samsung claims the new 990 SSD delivers up to 38 percent better power efficiency compared to the older 990 Pro, which should benefit laptops and compact systems where thermals and battery life matter more.
The Samsung 990 SSD will be available starting July 14 in 1TB and 2TB capacities, with pricing set at $269.99/£212.19 and $529.99/£411.99, respectively.
