Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 vs Lexar Professional Go Portable USB-C (2026): Key Differences
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You are comparing the lexar m 2 2tb pcie gen 4x4 nm790 nvme SSD vs professional go USB 3 2. Both options offer 2TB of storage capacity from Lexar. The main difference lies in their design and connectivity. One is an internal M.2 drive for direct motherboard installation. The other is an external portable drive with USB-C. Your choice depends on whether you need internal expansion or mobile access.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD | Lexar Professional Go Portable USB-C SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen 4x4 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Form Factor | M.2 | Portable |
| Max Read Speed | not listed | 1050 MB/s |
| Durability | not listed | IP65 dust/water-resistant, 1m drop protection |
| Dimensions | 3.15 x 0.87 x 0.08 inches | 1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD if
- You are installing storage inside a desktop or laptop.
- You need a direct PCIe connection for system booting.
- You prefer a compact internal component that fits M.2 slots.
Choose Lexar Professional Go Portable USB-C SSD if
- You need to transfer files between different devices.
- You require protection against dust, water, or drops.
- You want a plug-and-play solution for smartphones or tablets.
Verdict: Choose the NM790 if you are building or upgrading a PC with an available M.2 slot. Select the Professional Go if you need a rugged, portable drive for on-the-go file access. The internal SSD is for fixed systems, while the portable drive is for mobile versatility.
Lexar NM790 vs Professional Go Specs
Interface speed
The Lexar NM790 uses a PCIe Gen 4x4 interface. This allows for very high bandwidth between the drive and your computer motherboard. The Lexar Professional Go uses a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface with a USB-C connector. Its published specs list max read speeds of 1050 MB/s and max write speeds of 1000 MB/s. The NM790 does not list specific sequential read or write speeds in the provided data. PCIe Gen 4 typically offers much higher potential throughput than USB 3.2 Gen 2. If you need the fastest possible internal storage performance for large file transfers, the PCIe interface on the NM790 is the superior choice. The Professional Go is limited by the USB controller and cable standards.
Form factor
The Lexar NM790 is an M.2 drive. Its dimensions are 3.15 inches in length, 0.87 inches in width, and 0.08 inches in height. It weighs 0.35 ounces. This form factor is designed for installation inside desktop computers or laptops that have an available M.2 slot. The Lexar Professional Go is a portable SSD. It measures 1.71 inches in length, 0.98 inches in width, and 0.32 inches in height. It weighs 0.46 ounces. The Professional Go is self-contained with a built-in cable or connector, making it easy to carry in a pocket. The NM790 requires an enclosure or a motherboard slot to function. The Professional Go is better for portability, while the NM790 is better for internal expansion.
Build and durability
The Lexar Professional Go is built for rugged use. The data states it has IP65 dust and water resistance. It also offers 3.3 feet of anti-drop protection. This makes it suitable for use in challenging environments or while traveling. The Lexar NM790 is a bare drive module. It has no listed IP rating or drop protection specs. It is sensitive to physical shock, static electricity, and moisture if not installed in a protected system. The Professional Go is clearly the winner for durability. You should not rely on the bare NM790 for rugged portable use. The Professional Go protects your data from physical damage better.
Compatibility
The Lexar Professional Go lists versatile compatibility. It connects via USB-C and works with iPhone 15 series, smartphones, PCs, Macs, tablets, iPads, and cameras. The USB-C interface is common on modern devices. The Lexar NM790 uses a PCIe Gen 4x4 interface. It only works with motherboards that have an M.2 slot supporting PCIe NVMe drives. It does not connect directly to phones or standard USB ports. You need an adapter or a specific motherboard slot. The Professional Go is easier to use across many different devices. The NM790 is strictly for internal computer upgrades.
Storage capacity
Both drives offer 2TB of storage capacity. The Lexar NM790 is listed as a 2TB model. The Lexar Professional Go is also available in a 2TB version. The capacity is identical for this comparison. You get the same amount of space for files, games, and media on either drive. The difference lies in how you access that space. One is internal, and one is external. The capacity itself does not give either product an advantage in this specific matchup.
Which drive suits your specific needs best
PC builder seeking internal storage
The NM790 is an M.2 drive that slots directly into your motherboard via PCIe Gen 4x4. This interface provides high bandwidth for internal system tasks. Its small form factor fits standard NVMe slots. You get 2TB of capacity in a compact package designed for permanent installation inside your computer case.
Photographer needing portable rugged storage
The Professional Go is a portable SSD with USB-C connectivity. It features IP65 dust and water resistance. It also withstands drops from up to 3.3 feet. These rugged specs protect your data in challenging environments. Its compact size and durable build make it ideal for carrying on location shoots or travel.
User connecting to multiple devices
This portable drive offers versatile compatibility with a wide range of devices. It connects via USB-C to smartphones, tablets, PCs, and cameras. The included read and write speeds support efficient data access. You can seamlessly transfer files between different platforms without needing internal installation or specific motherboard slots.
The products compared
Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD
Best for: Internal PC storage upgrades
- 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
This is a 2TB internal NVMe drive using the PCIe Gen 4x4 interface. It uses the standard M.2 form factor, measuring 3.15 by 0.87 by 0.08 inches. The unit weighs just 0.35 ounces. You get high-speed connectivity for modern desktops and laptops that support Gen 4. This drive suits users who need substantial local storage for large files or game libraries.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity
- PCIe Gen 4x4 interface
- Standard M.2 form factor
- Lightweight at 0.35 ounces
Cons
- Requires a motherboard with M.2 slot
- Not a portable external drive
- Limited to PCIe 4.0 speeds
Good fit if
- You need high-capacity internal storage
- Your system supports PCIe 4.0
- You prefer compact internal drives
Skip if
- You need an external portable drive
- Your motherboard only has PCIe 3.0
- You require plug-and-play USB connectivity
Verdict: Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD delivers reliable internal storage for users upgrading their PC or laptop with a fast, high-capacity drive.
Lexar Professional Go Portable USB-C SSD
Best for: rugged portable storage for mobile devices
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Max Read Speed
- 1050 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1000 MB/s
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Dimensions
- 1.71 × 0.98 × 0.32 inches
View on Amazon: Lexar Professional Go Portable USB-C SSD Affiliate link
The Lexar Professional Go is a rugged, portable SSD designed for on-the-go storage. It delivers up to 1050 MB/s read and 1000 MB/s write speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2. This 2TB model fits in your pocket, measuring just 1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32 inches. It features IP65 dust and water resistance, making it suitable for challenging environments. You get versatile compatibility with phones, PCs, and cameras.
Pros
- Up to 1050 MB/s read speed
- Up to 1000 MB/s write speed
- IP65 dust and water resistance
- Compact 0.46 oz weight
Cons
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface limits speeds compared to PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives
- Portable form factor is larger than internal M.2 drives
- No included software or app mentioned for management
Good fit if
- You need portable storage for smartphones and cameras
- You work in dusty or wet environments
- You want a rugged drive for travel
Skip if
- You need maximum internal drive speeds
- You require a compact internal M.2 form factor
- You want a drive for desktop PC installation
Verdict: Lexar Professional Go 2TB Portable SSD offers reliable, rugged storage for mobile users. It suits photographers and videographers who need fast, durable access to files on various devices.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD | Lexar Professional Go Portable USB-C SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB | not stated |
| Interface | PCIe Gen 4x4 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Form Factor | M.2 | Portable |
| Max Read Speed | not stated | 1050 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not stated | 1000 MB/s |
| Size | 2TB | not stated |
| Host Interface | not stated | USB-C |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.08 inches | 1.71 × 0.98 × 0.32 inches |
| Weight | 0.35 ounces | 0.46 ounces |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | LNM790X002T-RNNNG | LSL400X002T-RNBNU |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Lexar Professional Go as an internal drive?
No. The Professional Go is designed as a portable external drive using a USB-C connection. It is not an internal M.2 NVMe SSD like the NM790. You cannot slot it directly into a motherboard. It is built for external use with mobile devices or computers via a cable.
Is the NM790 suitable for gaming laptops?
Yes. The NM790 is an internal PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD. Its small form factor and high-speed interface make it ideal for upgrading internal storage in laptops. It fits standard M.2 slots and provides fast load times for games and applications directly from your system's motherboard.
Which drive is better for photographers on the go?
The Lexar Professional Go is the better choice. It is built for rugged portable storage and connects via USB-C. This makes it easy to attach to various mobile devices. The NM790 is an internal drive, so it is not designed for quick removal and transport between devices.
Do I need a heatsink for the NM790?
The data does not specify if a heatsink is included or required. The drive has a slim profile at 0.08 inches thick. Many motherboards include their own cooling solutions for PCIe 4.0 drives. You should check your specific motherboard manual to see if additional cooling is recommended for optimal performance.
What is the physical size difference between the two drives?
The NM790 is longer but thinner. It measures 3.15 inches in length and 0.08 inches in height. The Professional Go is shorter and thicker. It measures 1.71 inches in length and 0.32 inches in height. The NM790 is lighter at 0.35 ounces compared to the Go's 0.46 ounces.
Can I connect the Professional Go to a desktop PC?
Yes. The Professional Go uses a USB-C interface. You can connect it to a desktop PC via a USB port. This allows you to use it as external storage for file transfers. It is not an internal drive, so it will not replace your primary system storage.
Is the NM790 compatible with all motherboards?
It requires a motherboard with an available M.2 slot supporting PCIe 4.0. The drive uses a PCIe 4.0 interface. While it may work in PCIe 3.0 slots, performance will be limited. You need a compatible slot and the correct mounting screw for installation inside your computer case.