Hey everyone! I'm in the process of picking out a new computer and I'm diving into the world of storage options. I've heard that Samsung's M.2 drives are top-notch, but is that really the case? Also, I'm curious about the differences between PCIe 5 x2 and PCIe 4 x4—are they essentially the same in terms of performance? I hope I'm using the right terms! Lastly, I've read that M.2 drives with cache are mainly beneficial for programs that frequently write data. Since I'm building a high-performance gaming PC, do I really need a drive with cache? I'm considering the Samsung 990 EVO Plus with 4TB capacity. Is that a good choice? Thanks for your help!
2 Answers
Definitely go with PCIe 4x4! Even though Gen 5 x2 offers the same bandwidth, it leaves extra lanes for the CPU, but Gen 5 SSDs are just way too expensive right now. If your motherboard doesn't support Gen 5 on the main M.2 slot, there’s really no reason to choose it. Gen 4x4 is currently the sweet spot for price and performance.
The Samsung 990 is a great choice, just keep in mind it's a bit on the pricey side due to its brand. Always check price-performance charts! They can be super helpful in finding the best option for your budget. Personally, I stick with a site that offers comparative data. It's a lifesaver!
You might not need to stress about getting a Gen 5 drive. Most NVMe drives from reliable brands will perform similarly. Samsung drives are fast and trustworthy, but they can be pricier than others.
As for the PCIe 5 x2 vs. PCIe 4 x4 debate, they actually have the same bandwidth, so you’re not missing much either way. Also, it's true that you usually don't need DRAM cache unless you're using NVMe drives in a USB enclosure or something specific.
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus is a solid drive, but if you’re open to alternatives, the Acer GM7000 4TB is a bit cheaper and offers similar speed. Just something to consider!
They actually suggest the Lexar NQ 790 as the top pick right now, and it’s the cheapest too! The WD Blue SN5000 is also worth mentioning for its energy efficiency. It might not be as fast, but it’s a solid option and much easier on the wallet than Samsung.