Lexar NM790 512GB Gen4 M.2 Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This lexar 512gb nm790 SSD pcie review focuses on a single-sided M.2 2280 drive that prioritizes efficiency. It offers sequential read speeds up to 7200 MB/s and write speeds up to 4400 MB/s. The drive uses PCIe Gen4 NVMe technology and relies on Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 instead of a dedicated DRAM cache. This design choice helps it consume up to 40% less power than comparable DRAM-equipped drives. It is built for high-performance tasks while maintaining a compact profile suitable for laptops and consoles.
What stands out
- Sequential read speeds reach 7200 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds reach 4400 MB/s
- HMB 3.0 eliminates the need for a DRAM chip
- Single-sided design fits narrow laptop slots
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 expansion
Who it fits
Good fit for
This drive suits laptop users who need a compact, low-power solution. The single-sided form factor ensures it fits in thin chassis without clearance issues. Gamers and creators who benefit from fast load times will appreciate the high sequential speeds. It also works well in PlayStation 5 systems as an expansion storage option. Users who want high performance without the thermal or power overhead of a DRAM cache will find this spec sheet appealing for daily use.
Who should skip it
You should skip this drive if you require sustained large file transfers that benefit from a dedicated DRAM cache. The reliance on HMB means it shares system memory, which may impact performance under heavy, continuous workloads. Professionals handling massive video projects or database servers might need more robust endurance or consistent latency control. If you are building a desktop with ample space and power, a DRAM-equipped drive might offer better stability for intensive tasks than this efficient, cache-less design.
Verdict: The Lexar NM790 512GB is a high-speed, efficient NVMe drive ideal for laptops and PS5 expansion. Its lack of DRAM makes it less suitable for heavy, sustained professional workloads.
Lexar NM790 Key Specs Explained
Storage Capacity: 512GB
This is the total amount of digital space available on the drive. You can store operating systems, applications, and a moderate library of games or files. If you manage large video projects or extensive game collections, you might find this size fills up quickly. Consider larger capacities if your workflow involves heavy media editing or if you prefer not to manage storage space frequently.
Interface: PCIe Gen4 NVMe
This interface determines how the drive communicates with your motherboard. PCIe Gen4 offers significantly higher bandwidth than older Gen3 standards, allowing for faster data transfers. You need a motherboard with a compatible M.2 slot to utilize these speeds. This is the standard for modern high-performance internal drives, ensuring compatibility with recent laptops and desktops built in the last few years.
Max Read Speed: 7200 MB/s
This figure represents the maximum rate at which the drive can retrieve data from its flash memory. High sequential read speeds help load games faster and reduce time spent opening large files. This performance level is typical for top-tier Gen4 drives. It is much faster than SATA SSDs, which cap around 550 MB/s, providing a noticeable difference in system responsiveness during heavy data access.
Max Write Speed: 4400 MB/s
This is the maximum rate for saving data to the drive. Strong write speeds are crucial when copying large files, installing software, or rendering video projects. While lower than read speeds, 4400 MB/s is competitive for this class of drive. It ensures that saving your work does not become a bottleneck, keeping your workflow smooth even when moving substantial amounts of data.
Form Factor: M.2 2280
This describes the physical size and shape of the drive. M.2 2280 is the most common standard for modern laptops and desktops, measuring 22mm wide and 80mm long. It plugs directly into the motherboard via an M.2 slot, eliminating the need for cables. You should verify that your device has an available 2280 slot before purchasing, as larger drives like 22110 may not fit.
Physical Design and Build Quality
The Lexar NM790 512GB Gen4 M.2 SSD is a single-sided drive in a black finish. Its form factor is M.2 2280, meaning it measures 80mm in length and 22mm in width. This standard size fits most modern motherboards and laptops. The single-sided layout places all components on one side of the circuit board. This design reduces overall thickness, making it ideal for slim laptops and tight enclosures where space is limited.
According to the listing, the drive weighs very little, though no specific gram count is provided. The compact nature means you do not need additional mounting brackets for standard slots. It connects via PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface. This interface allows for high-speed data transfer but requires a compatible slot on your device. The listing notes compatibility with PlayStation 5, indicating it fits the console’s expansion slot. However, you must verify your specific PS5 model supports this capacity and speed.
The black casing offers a neutral look that blends with internal components. There are no visible controls, buttons, or displays on the unit. The design prioritizes function over form. You will not find a heatsink included with the drive itself. If your motherboard lacks an integrated M.2 heatsink, you may need to purchase one separately to manage thermal output during sustained writes. The physical build is straightforward and utilitarian, focusing on fitting into your system without taking up extra room.
Setup and everyday use
Installation is straightforward because the drive uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor. Its single-sided design allows it to fit into thin laptops and compact builds where double-sided drives might not clear the components. You simply slot it into an available PCIe Gen4 NVMe slot on your motherboard. The drive does not include a separate heatsink, so you may need to rely on your system’s existing cooling solutions or add a third-party heatsink if your motherboard lacks one.
Power efficiency is a key feature here. The NM790 consumes up to 40% less power than typical DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen4 SSDs. This lower power draw can help extend battery life in laptops and reduce heat generation during sustained workloads. For systems without dedicated DRAM, the drive utilizes Host Memory Buffer 3.0. This technology accesses a small portion of your system’s RAM to manage data mapping, ensuring smooth transfer speeds without requiring expensive onboard memory chips.
In daily use, the sequential read speeds up to 7200 MB/s and write speeds up to 4400 MB/s provide fast load times for operating systems and applications. The drive is also compatible with the PlayStation 5, making it a viable option for console storage expansion. The 500TBW endurance rating suggests it can handle heavy writing tasks, such as video editing or large game installations, over its five-year limited warranty period.
Before You Buy This Drive
You should verify that your motherboard supports PCIe Gen4 NVMe interfaces. The drive uses HMB 3.0, which relies on system memory. Ensure your operating system and drivers are updated for optimal Host Memory Buffer performance. Since it is a single-sided M.2 2280 SSD, it fits easily into thin laptops and compact desktops. You may need an M.2 heatsink if your system lacks adequate passive cooling, as high speeds can generate heat. This efficient drive consumes less power than DRAM cache-enabled alternatives. It suits gamers and creators who need fast sequential transfers. If you store massive video libraries, consider the 512GB limit. For heavy workloads, higher capacity models might serve you better. Check your BIOS settings to enable the correct NVMe controller mode. This drive sits firmly in the high-performance Gen4 category, offering speed without the power draw of older designs.
Check before you buy
- Confirm your motherboard has an available PCIe Gen4 M.2 slot.
- Check if your laptop accepts single-sided M.2 2280 drives.
- Verify your OS supports Host Memory Buffer 3.0 features.
- Ensure you have adequate airflow or a compatible heatsink.
- Check if 512GB meets your current storage needs.
The product at a glance
Lexar NM790 512GB Gen4 M.2 SSD
Best for: Gaming, PS5 upgrades, and laptop storage
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 NVMe
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7200 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 4400 MB/s
- Cache Type
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0
View on Amazon: Lexar NM790 512GB Gen4 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The Lexar NM790 is a 512GB PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive with sequential read speeds up to 7200 MB/s and write speeds up to 4400 MB/s. It uses Host Memory Buffer 3.0 instead of a dedicated DRAM chip, which helps manage data transfer while using less power than cache-enabled drives. This single-sided M.2 2280 model fits laptops and is compatible with PlayStation 5. It suits users needing fast storage for gaming or content creation.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7200 MB/s
- Write speeds up to 4400 MB/s
- Uses 40% less power than DRAM cache SSDs
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided design fits laptops
Cons
- 512GB capacity is smaller than many modern drives
- Relies on Host Memory Buffer instead of dedicated DRAM
- Warranty is limited to five years
Good fit if
- You need high-speed storage for gaming or video editing
- You are upgrading a PlayStation 5
- You want a single-sided SSD for a laptop
Skip if
- You require more than 512GB of storage
- You need a drive with dedicated DRAM cache
- You prefer a longer warranty period than five years
Verdict: The Lexar NM790 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD delivers fast read and write speeds for gaming and creative work. It is a practical fit for PlayStation 5 upgrades and laptop builds where space and power efficiency matter.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexar NM790 512GB Gen4 M.2 SSD |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 512GB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen4 NVMe |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 |
| Max Read Speed | 7200 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 4400 MB/s |
| Cache Type | Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 |
| Compatibility | PS5 |
| Size | 512GB |
| Color | Black |
| Model | LNM790X512G-RNNNU |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Lexar NM790 512GB compatible with PlayStation 5?
Yes, this drive is compatible with the PlayStation 5. It meets the console's requirements for expandable storage. You can use it to store PS5 and PS4 games, allowing you to expand your library beyond the internal drive capacity without needing external USB peripherals.
Does the Lexar NM790 fit in laptops?
Yes, it fits in most laptops that support M.2 2280 slots. Its single-sided design is crucial for thin laptops, as it avoids clearance issues with double-sided drives. This makes it a practical choice for upgrading portable computers where space is limited.
What interface does the Lexar NM790 use?
The drive uses a PCIe 4.0 interface. This connection standard allows for high-speed data transfer rates. You need a motherboard with a PCIe Gen4 M.2 slot to achieve the advertised sequential read speeds up to 7200 MB/s and write speeds up to 4400 MB/s.
Is 512GB enough for gaming?
512GB provides storage for an operating system, applications, and a moderate game library. Modern titles often require significant space, so this capacity suits users who manage their game collections carefully. It is ideal for those who do not store massive video projects or extensive archives.
Does the NM790 require a heatsink?
The product data does not specify a bundled heatsink. However, high-speed NVMe drives can generate heat during sustained writes. You should check if your motherboard includes an M.2 heatsink or consider adding one separately to maintain optimal thermal performance and consistent speeds.
Can I use this SSD for creative work?
Yes, it is suitable for creative work due to its fast read and write speeds. The PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface helps with loading large files quickly. This makes it a practical fit for tasks like video editing or graphic design where data throughput matters.