Storage hardware choices in 2026 are heavily influenced by the ongoing RAM Storage Crisis, making recent releases like the Samsung 990 SSD a point of discussion for PC builders. As reviewers evaluate the non-Pro variant long after its premium predecessor's launch, the critical consensus focuses on its performance, power efficiency, and unusual pricing landscape.

Quick Facts

  • Platform: PC
  • Year: 2026
  • Capacities: 1TB (£212.19 / $269.99) and 2TB (£411.99 / $529.99)
  • Interface: PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 (Form Factor: M.2 2280)
  • Design: DRAM-less with V-NAND and HMB tech, 3-year warranty

Performance and Benchmarks

Reviewers testing the 2TB capacity model via CrystalDiskMark found that the drive delivered average read speeds of 7,094.84 MB/s and average write speeds of 5,851.1 MB/s. While official Samsung marketing lists sequential speeds up to 7,250 MB/s and 6,450 MB/s, benchmark results fell slightly short of those maximums but still demonstrated strong capabilities for a DRAM-less Gen 4 drive.

In practical application testing with PC games, load times showed minimal practical differences compared to onboard storage. Marvel Rivals loaded to its start screen in an average of 38.13 seconds on the 990 SSD, compared to 39.5 seconds on an onboard PNY CS1030 drive. Counter-Strike 2 and Dispatch recorded average load times of 26.80 seconds and 17.11 seconds respectively. Reviewers noted that the drive maintained stable operating temperatures around 48 degrees Celsius under sustained gaming loads.

Value and Buying Advice

The primary point of debate among hardware critics is the pricing strategy of the Samsung 990 SSD. Launching at £411.99 / $529.99 for the 2TB model, reviewers note that it commands a high price tag relative to alternatives. Because the faster 2TB Samsung 990 Pro and competitor drives like the WD_Black SN7100 can often be found at lower retail prices depending on current stock, critics advise checking current market rates before purchasing.

If retailers are pricing the Samsung 990 SSD well below its Pro counterpart, reviewers consider it a worthwhile component to boost a PC rig. However, if the 990 Pro is available at a similar or cheaper price point, critics recommend opting for the faster, more premium model instead.