6 Best Alternatives to the Lexar M.2 2TB PCIe Gen 4X4 NM790 NVMe SSD (2026)
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If you are looking for lexar m 2 2tb pcie gen 4x4 nm790 nvme SSD alternatives, this guide helps you compare options. The Lexar NM790 stands out for its slim 0.08-inch height and 2TB capacity in a standard M.2 form factor. Its compact design makes it ideal for tight spaces around the M.2 slot. However, you might need different features or brands. Some users prefer factory-installed heatsinks for better thermal management. Others may want higher sequential read speeds for heavy content creation workloads. Console gamers often seek verified PS5 compatibility with specific thermal profiles.
We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original drive. Each option shares the PCIe Gen 4.0 interface and M.2 form factor. You will find variations in storage capacity, cooling solutions, and brand reputation. This list includes drives with integrated heatsinks and those without. It covers both 1TB and 2TB sizes to match your storage needs. We focus strictly on published specifications to help you make an informed choice. You can compare dimensions, interfaces, and intended use cases across these 6 products.
Our top pick: Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD.
How these alternatives compare
ADATA Legend 960 2TB Gen4 M.2 SSD
The ADATA Legend 960 includes a factory-mounted heatsink, which the Lexar NM790 lacks. This makes the ADATA better for PS5s or desktops with limited airflow. Both drives offer 2TB capacity and PCIe Gen 4 interfaces. The ADATA is thicker due to the cooling solution, so it may not fit in slim laptops. If you need pre-installed cooling for console compatibility, choose the ADATA. If you prioritize a bare, low-profile drive for tight spaces, the Lexar remains the better fit.
Samsung 980 PRO 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
The Samsung 980 PRO provides a well-established option for high-performance gaming and content creation. Like the Lexar, it uses a 2TB capacity and M.2 form factor. However, the Samsung does not explicitly list a heatsink in its base specs, similar to the Lexar. It targets users who want proven reliability and robust thermal labeling without the bulk of an integrated cooler. If you prefer a brand with a long history in high-end storage and do not require the specific slim profile of the Lexar, the Samsung is a strong alternative.
Seagate FireCuda 530 1TB Heatsink SSD
The Seagate FireCuda 530 offers 1TB of capacity, which is half of the Lexar NM790. It includes a heatsink for thermal management, making it suitable for high-speed gaming. The Seagate focuses on speed over raw storage space. If you need faster load times and do not require 2TB, this is a viable choice. However, if capacity is your primary concern, the Lexar provides double the storage. The Seagate is ideal for users who prioritize performance and thermal control over maximum file storage.
Sandisk WD_Black SN850X 2TB SSD
The WD_Black SN850X is a 2TB PCIe 4.0 drive that often comes with a heatsink option. It targets gamers who already have motherboard cooling solutions or want to add their own. Like the Lexar, it offers high capacity and standard M.2 dimensions. The SN850X is a strong alternative if you want a different brand ecosystem or specific firmware features. It matches the Lexar in interface and capacity but may differ in sustained write performance. Choose the WD_Black if you prefer its specific performance curve or brand support.
Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink includes an integrated thermal solution, unlike the bare Lexar NM790. It offers 2TB capacity and PCIe Gen 4 speeds up to 7,450 MB/s. The included heatsink makes it ready for PS5 installation without additional parts. If you want a premium drive with factory cooling and high transfer rates, this is a superior option. The Lexar is better for users who need the absolute thinnest profile. The Samsung is ideal for those prioritizing maximum speed and integrated thermal management.
Fanxiang 2TB PCIe 4.0 Heatsink SSD
The Fanxiang S660 includes a heatsink and offers 2TB capacity at a likely lower price point. It is designed for PS5 upgrades and gaming PCs. The Lexar NM790 is thinner and lacks a heatsink. The Fanxiang provides a ready-to-install solution for users who want cooling included. If you need a budget-friendly option with pre-mounted cooling for console compatibility, the Fanxiang is practical. If you prefer a bare drive for custom cooling or slim laptops, the Lexar remains the better choice for its compact form factor.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD
Best for: slim PCIe Gen 4x4 M.2 storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 4x4
- Form Factor
- M.2
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.08 inches
- Weight
- 0.35 ounces
View on Amazon: Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The Lexar NM790 is an M.2 solid-state drive with a 2TB storage capacity and a PCIe Gen 4x4 interface. It measures 3.15 inches long, 0.87 inches wide, and 0.08 inches high, weighing 0.35 ounces. This low-profile black drive provides PCIe 4.0 connection for your M.2 slot. It fits your needs if you want 2TB of internal NVMe capacity in a compact form factor.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- PCIe Gen 4x4 interface
- Slim 0.08-inch profile height
- Lightweight design at 0.35 ounces
Cons
- No built-in heatsink included
- Capacity options limited to 1TB and 2TB
Good fit if
- You need a 2TB drive that connects via PCIe Gen 4x4.
- You need a low-profile M.2 drive measuring 0.08 inches in height.
Skip if
- You need higher storage capacity than 2TB.
- You require an M.2 drive with a pre-installed heatsink.
Verdict: Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD delivers 2TB of capacity across a slim PCIe Gen 4x4 M.2 form factor. Its 0.08-inch height makes it suitable when space around the M.2 slot is tight.
ADATA Legend 960 2TB Gen4 M.2 SSD
Best for: PS5 and desktop PC Gen4 gaming
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe 1.4
- Form Factor
- M.2
- Max Read Speed
- 7,400 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6,800 MB/s
- Cooling
- Heat sink
View on Amazon: ADATA Legend 960 2TB Gen4 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The ADATA Legend 960 2TB Heatsink M.2 SSD is an internal PCIe Gen4 x4 drive engineered for high-throughput storage. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 7,400 MB/s and write speeds up to 6,800 MB/s under NVMe 1.4 specifications. An included heatsink assists with thermal management during demanding tasks. This drive suits you if you need fast Gen4 storage for a desktop PC or PS5 console expansion.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 7,400 MB/s and write speeds up to 6,800 MB/s
- Integrated heat sink for thermal stability
- Supported for PS5 console storage expansion
- Backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Heat sink profile limits clearance in thin laptop slots
- Operates on NVMe 1.4 rather than newer NVMe 2.0
Good fit if
- You need 2TB of high-speed Gen4 storage with up to 7,400 MB/s reads.
- You plan to expand the internal storage of a PS5 console.
- You want an SSD that comes with a dedicated heat sink.
Skip if
- You need a bare drive without a heat sink for compact laptop installations.
- You require next-generation PCIe Gen5 transfer speeds.
Verdict: ADATA Legend 960 2TB Heatsink M.2 SSD provides fast PCIe Gen4 read and write speeds alongside factory cooling for PC and PS5 installations. It is a solid 2TB option when you want verified console compatibility backed by a 5-year warranty.
Samsung 980 PRO 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
Best for: high-performance gaming and content creation
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0 NVMe
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 7,000 MB/s
- Cooling
- Heat spreader label
- Compatibility
- Gaming
View on Amazon: Samsung 980 PRO 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The Samsung 980 PRO 2TB delivers read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s via a PCIe 4.0 NVMe interface. It uses a compact M.2 2280 form factor and includes a heat spreader label for thermal management. This drive suits gamers and creators who need high bandwidth. It maintains compatibility with PCIe 3.0 systems while offering significantly faster data transfer rates than older standards.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s
- 2TB storage capacity
- Includes heat spreader label for thermal control
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor
Cons
- Base model lacks an included physical heatsink
- Only offers PCIe 4.0, not Gen 5
- Weight is 1.92 ounces
Good fit if
- You need fast read speeds for gaming
- You want a reliable PCIe 4.0 drive
- You are building a compact M.2 system
Skip if
- You require PCIe Gen 5 speeds
- You need a drive with a pre-attached metal heatsink
- You are looking for a smaller 1TB capacity
Verdict: Samsung 980 PRO 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD provides top-tier sequential read speeds and robust thermal labeling. It fits users who prioritize maximum bandwidth for heavy workloads without needing Gen 5 hardware.
Seagate FireCuda 530 1TB Heatsink SSD
Best for: high-speed gaming and content creation
- Storage Capacity
- 1 TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 ×4 NVMe 1.4
- Form Factor
- M.2
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 7300MB/s
- Cooling
- Low-profile heatsink
- Compatibility
- PS5
View on Amazon: Seagate FireCuda 530 1TB Heatsink SSD Affiliate link
This Seagate FireCuda 530 delivers top-tier PCIe Gen4 x4 speeds of up to 7300MB/s. It uses TLC NAND for reliable performance. The drive includes a low-profile heatsink to manage thermals during sustained workloads. While it fits PS5 and M.2 slots, this specific unit holds 1TB. You should choose this if you need high bandwidth for gaming or content creation and value included thermal management.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7300MB/s
- Includes EKWB-designed low-profile heatsink
- Uses TLC NAND flash
- Compatible with PS5 and M.2 slots
Cons
- 1TB capacity is smaller than the 2TB alternatives
- Heatsink adds bulk compared to bare drives
- No mention of DRAM cache in specifications
Good fit if
- You need high sequential read speeds for gaming
- You want a drive with an included heatsink
- You are upgrading a PS5 or desktop PC
Skip if
- You require 2TB or more storage space
- You prefer a bare drive without a heatsink
- You are looking for the absolute largest capacity available
Verdict: Seagate FireCuda 530 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD offers exceptional 7300MB/s speeds and thermal control for gamers and creators who prioritize performance over capacity. It is an ideal fit for users who need fast load times and do not mind the 1TB limit.
Sandisk WD_Black SN850X 2TB SSD
Best for: Gamers with motherboard cooling
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4
- Form Factor
- M.2
- Cooling
- Without Heatsink
- Compatibility
- Gaming
- Dimensions
- 5 × 4 × 0.87 inches
View on Amazon: Sandisk WD_Black SN850X 2TB SSD Affiliate link
The WD Black SN850X is a 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD built for high-speed gaming. It uses a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface to deliver fast data transfer rates. The drive comes without a heatsink, which keeps the profile slim but may require your motherboard to provide adequate cooling. This model fits well into desktops and next-gen consoles that support M.2 expansion.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- PCIe 4.0 x4 interface
- M.2 form factor
- Optimized for gaming
Cons
- Sold without a heatsink
- Dimensions are 5 x 4 x 0.87 inches
- No mention of endurance rating in data
Good fit if
- You need high capacity for large game libraries
- You have a motherboard with built-in M.2 cooling
- You want a PCIe 4.0 drive for gaming
Skip if
- You require a pre-installed heatsink
- You are using a PCIe 3.0 system
- You need a smaller 1TB capacity
Verdict: WD Black SN850X 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD offers robust storage for gamers who have their own cooling solutions. It is a strong alternative for users prioritizing speed and capacity in a standard M.2 slot.
Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD
Best for: high-speed PS5 and PC gaming storage
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0
- Form Factor
- M.2
- Max Read Speed
- 7,450 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6,900 MB/s
- Cooling
- Heatsink
View on Amazon: Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD Affiliate link
The Samsung 990 PRO 2TB Heatsink SSD is an internal PCIe 4.0 M.2 drive designed for high-throughput storage. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s and sequential write speeds up to 6,900 MB/s. Thermal management is handled by a built-in heatsink with RGB LED lights and a nickel-coated controller. This setup suits you if you want near-maximum PCIe 4.0 bandwidth for PlayStation 5 or desktop gaming setups.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds reach up to 7,450 MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900 MB/s
- Integrated heatsink with RGB LED lights and nickel-coated controller
- Random read and write speeds reach up to 1400K and 1550K IOPS
- Supported by Samsung Magician drive health and optimization software
Cons
- Heatsink dimensions require laptop slots to meet the PCI-SIG D8 standard
- Requires a PCIe 4.0 interface to achieve advertised transfer rates
Good fit if
- You want sequential read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s for PC or PS5 gaming.
- You prefer built-in heatsink cooling with integrated RGB LED lighting.
- You want drive monitoring and management through Samsung Magician software.
Skip if
- You need a drive for a thin laptop that does not meet PCI-SIG D8 clearance.
- You need more than 2TB of storage on a single drive.
Verdict: Samsung 990 PRO 2TB Heatsink SSD provides top-tier PCIe 4.0 transfer rates up to 7,450 MB/s alongside integrated thermal management. It offers high-speed M.2 storage for compatible desktops and PlayStation 5 consoles.
Fanxiang 2TB PCIe 4.0 Heatsink SSD
Best for: PS5 upgrades and gaming PCs needing included cooling
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0
- Form Factor
- M.2
- Max Read Speed
- 5000 MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Cooling
- Heatsink
View on Amazon: Fanxiang 2TB PCIe 4.0 Heatsink SSD Affiliate link
The Fanxiang S660 is a 2TB M.2 NVMe drive designed for PS5 expansion and gaming PCs. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 5000 MB/s using PCIe 4.0. The unit includes a built-in heatsink to manage thermal output during intensive loads. It utilizes SLC caching to maintain performance. This drive offers a five-year warranty and fits standard M.2 slots.
Pros
- Includes a built-in heatsink for thermal management
- Sequential read speeds reach 5000 MB/s
- Uses SLC cache for consistent performance
- Backed by a five-year warranty
Cons
- Read speeds are lower than the 7000+ MB/s top-tier competitors
- No DRAM cache is specified in the data
- Brand is less established than major SSD manufacturers
Good fit if
- You need a pre-cooled SSD for PS5 installation
- You want a 2TB capacity with included heatsink
- You are building a budget-friendly NVMe gaming drive
Skip if
- You require the absolute fastest PCIe 4.0 speeds available
- You prefer major brands with wider retail presence
- You need a drive without a heatsink for tight cases
Verdict: Fanxiang S660 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD is a practical option for users who want a ready-to-install solution for PS5 or gaming PCs that includes a heatsink. It suits buyers prioritizing ease of installation and warranty coverage over peak theoretical bandwidth.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD | ADATA Legend 960 2TB Gen4 M.2 SSD | Samsung 980 PRO 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD | Seagate FireCuda 530 1TB Heatsink SSD | Sandisk WD_Black SN850X 2TB SSD | Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD | Fanxiang 2TB PCIe 4.0 Heatsink SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 1 TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen 4x4 | PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe 1.4 | PCIe 4.0 NVMe | PCIe Gen4 ×4 NVMe 1.4 | NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 4.0 |
| Form Factor | M.2 | M.2 | M.2 2280 | M.2 | M.2 | M.2 | M.2 |
| Max Read Speed | not stated | 7,400 MB/s | Up to 7,000 MB/s | Up to 7300MB/s | not stated | 7,450 MB/s | 5000 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not stated | 6,800 MB/s | not stated | not stated | not stated | 6,900 MB/s | not stated |
| Cache Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | SLC Cache |
| Cooling | not stated | Heat sink | Heat spreader label | Low-profile heatsink | Without Heatsink | Heatsink | Heatsink |
| Compatibility | not stated | Gaming | Gaming | PS5 | Gaming | Gaming | PS5, Gaming |
| NAND Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | TLC | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 1 TB | not stated | 2TB | 2TB |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.08 inches | 1.1 × 9.7 × 6.5 inches | 0.87 × 3.15 × 0.94 inches | 0.87 × 0.09 × 3.16 inches | 5 × 4 × 0.87 inches | 3.16 × 0.87 × 0.09 inches | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.39 inches |
| Weight | 0.35 ounces | 1.06 ounces | 1.92 ounces | 0.35 ounces | not stated | 1.92 ounces | 1.06 ounces |
| Color | Black | [LEGEND 960] 7400/6800MB/s | Black | Black | Black | black | not stated |
| Model | LNM790X002T-RNNNG | ALEG-960-2TCS | MZ-V8P2T0B | ZP1000GM3A023 | BLACK SN850X | MZ-V9P2T0GW | S660 |
When you need cooling hardware, examine bykski b nvme ct m 2 SSD aluminum alternatives alongside this drive.
Frequently asked questions
Which NVMe drive offers the lowest profile for tight spaces?
The Lexar NM790 features a slim 0.08-inch height, making it ideal for environments with limited clearance around the M.2 slot. Its compact dimensions of 3.15 by 0.87 inches allow for easier installation in compact builds where other drives might not fit.
Is there a PCIe Gen4 SSD with built-in cooling for PS5?
Yes, the ADATA Legend 960 and Samsung 990 PRO both include factory-mounted heatsinks. These drives are designed for gaming consoles like the PS5 and desktops, providing thermal management without requiring you to purchase a separate cooling solution for installation.
Which alternative provides the highest sequential read speeds?
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink offers transfer rates up to 7,450 MB/s. The ADATA Legend 960 also delivers high performance with 7,400 MB/s read speeds. These figures represent the maximum bandwidth available for large file transfers on compatible PCIe Gen 4 systems.
Can I use these drives for both PC and console gaming?
Several options support both platforms. The ADATA Legend 960, Seagate FireCuda 530, and Samsung 990 PRO are compatible with gaming systems. The Fanxiang S660 is also listed for PS5 upgrades and gaming PCs, offering versatility for different hardware setups.
What is the capacity of the Seagate FireCuda 530?
The Seagate FireCuda 530 is available in a 1TB size. While it offers exceptional 7,300 MB/s speeds and TLC NAND for performance, it holds less data than the 2TB options like the Lexar NM790 or Samsung 990 PRO.
Which SSD includes an SLC cache for better sustained performance?
The Fanxiang S660 is noted for its SLC cache technology. This feature helps maintain faster write speeds during large file transfers, making it a practical choice for users who prioritize sustained performance and ease of installation with included cooling.
Does the Samsung 980 PRO come with a heatsink?
The Samsung 980 PRO does not include a built-in heatsink in its standard configuration. It relies on its own thermal labeling and design for heat dissipation, unlike the Legend 960 or 990 PRO which feature integrated cooling solutions.