Samsung Prepares to Launch SSD 990: A New Value-Focused M.2 NVMe Gen 4 SSD

Samsung is finalizing the release of the SSD 990, an upcoming M.2 NVMe Gen 4 solid-state drive designed to strengthen the value segment of its client SSD portfolio. The SSD 990 is distinct from the 990 EVO Plus, which previously served as Samsung’s DRAMless performance SSD for the PCIe Gen 4 market. Key differences between the two models include the type of NAND flash used and an updated controller in the SSD 990.

Key Differences: SSD 990 vs. 990 EVO Plus

While the 990 EVO Plus utilized TLC NAND flash and offered both Gen 4 x4 and Gen 5 x2 interfaces, the new SSD 990 is expected to feature QLC NAND flash and is strictly limited to a Gen 4 x4 interface. This change positions the SSD 990 as a more affordable option, targeting users who prioritize value and capacity over maximum endurance.

References to the Samsung SSD 990 briefly appeared on Samsung’s Canadian website before being removed, but not before screenshots were captured by industry sources. These early details provide insight into the drive’s specifications and performance targets.

Technical Specifications and Performance

The Samsung SSD 990 is a DRAMless NVMe drive, powered by an in-house Samsung controller. The drive is expected to offer lower write endurance compared to the 990 EVO Plus, likely due to the use of QLC NAND flash. The 1 TB model is rated for 400 TBW (terabytes written), while the 2 TB version offers 800 TBW. These endurance figures are typical for QLC-based SSDs, which trade some longevity for higher storage density and lower cost.

In terms of performance, the SSD 990 remains competitive within the PCIe Gen 4 segment. The 2 TB variant delivers sequential read speeds of up to 7,250 MB/s, while the 1 TB model reaches up to 7,150 MB/s. Both capacities offer sequential write speeds of up to 6,450 MB/s, placing them in the upper range for Gen 4 NVMe SSDs.

Positioning in Samsung’s SSD Lineup

The introduction of the SSD 990 underscores Samsung’s commitment to offering a broad range of storage solutions tailored to different user needs. By leveraging QLC NAND and a DRAMless design, the SSD 990 aims to provide high-capacity, high-speed storage at a more accessible price point, making it an attractive option for mainstream users and budget-conscious PC builders seeking reliable PCIe Gen 4 performance.