Looking Beyond the Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink 2TB? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB delivers strong sequential speeds up to 7,450 MB/s and includes an integrated heatsink for thermal stability. If you are looking for samsung 990 pro w heatsink alternatives, you might want a drive with a DRAM cache or a different form factor. Some users prefer options that fit specific console requirements or offer better power efficiency for laptops.
We selected these 6 drives because their published specifications overlap with the original model. All listed products use the PCIe Gen4 interface and M.2 2280 form factor. You will find variations in cooling solutions, cache types, and maximum write speeds across this list. Each option provides a 2TB capacity to match your storage needs. Review the specs below to find the drive that matches your specific performance and compatibility requirements.
How Alternatives Compare to Samsung
TEAMGROUP T-Force A440 2TB Heatsink SSD
The Teamgroup T-Force A440 distinguishes itself with a DRAM cache, which the Samsung 990 PRO lacks. This component helps maintain consistent write speeds during heavy sustained loads, making it better for large file transfers. It also uses an aluminum heatsink for thermal management. You should choose this drive if you prioritize cache-assisted stability over the Samsung’s slightly higher peak sequential read speeds. It fits standard M.2 2280 slots and supports PS5 expansion, offering a robust alternative for users who need reliable performance under pressure.
KLEVV CRAS C930 2TB Heatsink NVMe SSD
The KLEVV CRAS C930 includes a DRAM cache, providing better random access performance than the Samsung 990 PRO for certain workloads. It is explicitly compatible with PS5 and gaming systems. While the Samsung offers higher maximum sequential read speeds, the KLEVV prioritizes cache-driven consistency. You should pick this drive if you value cache support and console compatibility over raw peak throughput. It fits in standard M.2 2280 slots and includes a heatsink for thermal control, making it a practical choice for users who need reliable day-to-day performance in gaming or creative environments.
Lexar NM790 2TB w/ Heatsink
The Lexar NM790 offers high sequential speeds without a DRAM cache, relying on HMB technology instead. This design reduces power consumption and heat generation compared to cache-heavy drives. It includes a heatsink for thermal stability. You should choose this drive if you prioritize energy efficiency and thermal management over the Samsung’s DRAM-less approach. It fits standard M.2 2280 slots and provides strong performance for gaming and content creation. The NM790 is a solid option for users who want high speeds with a cooler operating profile.
Crucial P310 2TB Gen4 SSD with Heatsink
The Crucial P310 is designed for versatility across laptops and PS5 consoles. It includes a heatsink for thermal stability and fits standard M.2 2280 slots. Unlike the Samsung 990 PRO, it is optimized for broader device compatibility without requiring specialized cooling solutions. You should choose this drive if you need a single SSD for multiple devices, including laptops and consoles. It offers solid Gen4 performance and is a practical choice for users who value flexibility and integrated thermal management over maximum peak sequential speeds.
Vansuny 2TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
The Vansuny 2TB NVMe SSD offers strong sequential speeds and includes a heatsink for thermal control. It is compatible with PS5 and gaming systems. While it lacks the brand recognition of Samsung, it provides similar M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe 4.0 interface. You should choose this drive if you prioritize raw throughput and thermal stability over brand prestige. It is a viable option for users who need a cost-effective solution for gaming or console expansion without compromising on basic performance specifications.
Fikwot FX910 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
The Fikwot FX910 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD includes a graphite heatsink for thermal stability. It is compatible with PS5 and gaming systems. While it offers strong Gen4 performance, it lacks the brand recognition and specific caching technologies of the Samsung 990 PRO. You should choose this drive if you prioritize thermal management and console compatibility over brand prestige. It fits standard M.2 2280 slots and provides a practical alternative for users who need reliable performance in gaming or console expansion scenarios without the premium cost associated with top-tier brands.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB
Best for: High-performance gaming and creative work
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7,450 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6,900 MB/s
- Cooling
- Heatsink
View on Amazon: Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB Affiliate link
This Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink offers 2TB of storage in an M.2 2280 form factor. It connects via PCIe Gen4 and delivers sequential read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900 MB/s. The integrated heatsink helps manage temperature during heavy workloads. You will appreciate the high bandwidth for gaming and video editing. It is compatible with PlayStation 5 and standard desktops.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s
- Write speeds up to 6,900 MB/s
- Integrated heatsink for thermal control
- 2TB storage capacity
Cons
- Heatsink adds bulk compared to bare drives
- No DRAM cache listed in specifications
- Heatsink limits use in tight spaces
Good fit if
- You need fast load times for gaming
- You edit high-resolution video files
- You use a PlayStation 5 console
Skip if
- You require a drive without a heatsink
- You need PCIe Gen5 speeds
- You have limited M.2 space
Verdict: Samsung 990 PRO 2TB Heatsink SSD delivers top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance for demanding tasks. You should choose this drive if you prioritize maximum sequential speeds and thermal stability in a standard M.2 slot.
TEAMGROUP T-Force A440 2TB Heatsink SSD
Best for: Users needing DRAM cache and PS5 fit
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7,000 MB/s
- Cache Type
- DRAM, SLC Cache
- Cooling
- Aluminum Heatsink, Graphene Heatsink
View on Amazon: TEAMGROUP T-Force A440 2TB Heatsink SSD Affiliate link
The Teamgroup T-FORCE A440 2TB is an M.2 2280 NVMe drive built for high-speed data transfer. It features a Phison E18 controller and delivers sequential read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s. You get both DRAM and SLC cache for consistent performance under load. The aluminum heatsink manages thermal output effectively. It also includes a graphene heatsink for PS5 compatibility.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds reach 7,000 MB/s
- Includes DRAM and SLC cache
- Aluminum and graphene heatsink included
- Phison E18 controller
Cons
- Sequential write speed is 5,500 MB/s
- Graphene heatsink height is 3.7mm
- No warranty details in data
Good fit if
- You need DRAM cache for sustained writes
- You are installing in a PS5
- You want an aluminum heatsink
Skip if
- You require the fastest possible write speeds
- You need a drive without a heatsink
- You want a larger graphene heatsink
Verdict: Teamgroup T-FORCE A440 2TB offers strong read performance and dual caching for users who prioritize consistent throughput and PS5 compatibility.
KLEVV CRAS C930 2TB Heatsink NVMe SSD
Best for: PS5 expansion and DRAM cache performance
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen4x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7,400 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6,800 MB/s
- Cache Type
- DRAM cache
View on Amazon: KLEVV CRAS C930 2TB Heatsink NVMe SSD Affiliate link
The KLEVV CRAS C930 is a 2TB M.2 2280 NVMe drive using PCIe Gen4x4. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 7,400 MB/s and write speeds up to 6,800 MB/s. The unit includes an aluminum heatsink to manage thermals. It features a DRAM cache for improved performance and durability. This drive is compatible with PlayStation 5 expansion slots.
Pros
- Maximum sequential read speed of 7,400 MB/s
- Includes aluminum heatsink for thermal management
- Equipped with DRAM cache buffer
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 expansion slot
Cons
- Write speed of 6,800 MB/s is lower than top competitors
- No warranty duration specified in data
- Brand is less established than Samsung or WD
Good fit if
- You need a 2TB drive for PS5 storage expansion
- You want a PCIe Gen4 SSD with DRAM cache
- You prefer a drive with an included heatsink
Skip if
- You require the absolute fastest write speeds available
- You are looking for a well-known mainstream brand
- You need a drive without a heatsink
Verdict: KLEVV CRAS C930 2TB Gen4 SSD offers strong Gen4 speeds and PS5 compatibility with a DRAM cache. It suits users who prioritize thermal management and console expansion over brand prestige.
Lexar NM790 2TB w/ Heatsink
Best for: High-speed storage with efficient power and thermal management
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 4x4
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- up to 7400MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6500MB/s
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache, HMB 3.0
View on Amazon: Lexar NM790 2TB w/ Heatsink Affiliate link
The Lexar NM790 delivers PCIe Gen4x4 speeds up to 7400 MB/s read and 6500 MB/s write. It uses Host Memory Buffer 3.0 instead of a dedicated DRAM cache, which helps manage transfer speeds efficiently. The included heatsink aids in thermal management. This drive targets users who want high sequential performance without the power draw of DRAM-enabled models.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 7400 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds up to 6500 MB/s
- Host Memory Buffer 3.0 for efficient caching
- Includes a heatsink for thermal control
- Designed for 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache SSDs
Cons
- Lacks a dedicated DRAM cache module
- Weight is 1.71 ounces, which is heavier than bare drives
- Only 2TB capacity option listed for this specific heatsink variant
Good fit if
- You need fast sequential read and write speeds for large file transfers
- You want a drive that runs cooler and uses less power than DRAM-based alternatives
- You are building a system that requires an M.2 2280 form factor with a heatsink
Skip if
- You require a dedicated DRAM cache for sustained heavy random access workloads
- You need a smaller 1TB capacity to save space or cost
- You are looking for a drive without a pre-attached heatsink
Verdict: Lexar NM790 2TB w/ Heatsink offers top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds with efficient power usage. It is a strong choice for gamers and creators who prioritize high throughput and thermal stability over dedicated DRAM caching.
Crucial P310 2TB Gen4 SSD with Heatsink
Best for: laptops and PlayStation 5 upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0 NVMe
- Form Factor
- 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7,100 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6,000 MB/s
- Cooling
- Heatsink
View on Amazon: Crucial P310 2TB Gen4 SSD with Heatsink Affiliate link
The Crucial P310 2TB is a PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive designed for laptops, desktops, and PlayStation 5. It delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds. The included heatsink helps manage thermal control during sustained workloads. You get 2TB of storage for games and apps. It supports backward compatibility with Gen3 systems, making it a flexible upgrade path for various devices.
Pros
- Up to 7,100 MB/s read speed
- Up to 6,000 MB/s write speed
- Includes heatsink for thermal control
- Compatible with laptops, desktops, and PS5
Cons
- Write speed is lower than some rivals
- No DRAM cache listed in specifications
- Thicker profile at 0.38 inches
Good fit if
- You need a drive for a PlayStation 5
- You want a heatsink included for laptops
- You require broad compatibility with Gen3 systems
Skip if
- You need the absolute highest write speeds available
- You require a DRAM cache for heavy workloads
- You are building a desktop with ample airflow
Verdict: Crucial P310 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD fits users who need a versatile drive for laptops and consoles without buying a separate cooler. It offers solid Gen4 performance and broad device compatibility.
Vansuny 2TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
Best for: users seeking high-speed PCIe 4.0 performance with included cooling
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7300MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6300MB/s
- Cooling
- Heatsink
View on Amazon: Vansuny 2TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD Affiliate link
The Vansuny 2TB NVMe SSD delivers sequential read speeds up to 7300MB/s and write speeds up to 6300MB/s over a PCIe 4.0 interface. It comes in an M.2 2280 form factor with an included heatsink to manage thermal output during heavy workloads. This drive suits users needing high throughput for gaming or content creation who want a complete upgrade kit with mounting hardware.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds reach 7300MB/s
- Sequential write speeds reach 6300MB/s
- Includes heatsink for thermal management
- Comes with mounting screws and stickers
Cons
- Brand is less established than top-tier competitors
- DRAM cache specification is not listed
- Endurance rating (TBW) is not provided
Good fit if
- You want high sequential read and write speeds
- You need an M.2 2280 drive with a heatsink
- You are building a system for gaming or video editing
Skip if
- You require a drive with a known DRAM cache
- You need a manufacturer with a long track record in SSDs
- You are looking for a drive with a clearly stated endurance rating
Verdict: Vansuny 2TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD offers strong sequential speeds and includes a heatsink, making it a viable option for users prioritizing raw throughput and thermal control in an M.2 2280 package.
Fikwot FX910 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
Best for: PS5 owners seeking fast Gen4 speeds with cooling
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7300MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6200MB/s
- Cooling
- Graphite heatsink
View on Amazon: Fikwot FX910 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD Affiliate link
The Fikwot FX910 is a 2TB M.2 2280 NVMe drive designed for PS5 and desktop PCs. It uses PCIe 4.0 to reach 7300 MB/s read and 6200 MB/s write speeds. A built-in graphite heatsink helps maintain stability under load. This drive suits gamers and users needing fast load times and reliable performance for large game libraries.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 7300 MB/s
- Sequential write speeds up to 6200 MB/s
- Includes graphite heatsink for thermal management
- Compatible with PS5 and desktop PCs
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Read speed is 100 MB/s slower than the Lexar NM790
- Brand is less established than Samsung or Crucial
- No DRAM cache mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a heatsink-equipped SSD for a PS5
- You want high sequential speeds for gaming
- You prefer a drive with a 5-year warranty
Skip if
- You require the absolute fastest Gen4 read speeds available
- You need a drive with a DRAM cache
- You only buy from top-tier storage brands
Verdict: The Fikwot FX910 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD offers strong Gen4 performance with a graphite heatsink, making it a solid option for PS5 owners and gamers who prioritize speed and thermal stability over brand prestige.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB | TEAMGROUP T-Force A440 2TB Heatsink SSD | KLEVV CRAS C930 2TB Heatsink NVMe SSD | Lexar NM790 2TB w/ Heatsink | Crucial P310 2TB Gen4 SSD with Heatsink | Vansuny 2TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD | Fikwot FX910 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen4 | PCIe Gen4 x4, NVMe | PCIe Gen4x4 | PCIe Gen 4x4 | PCIe 4.0 NVMe | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 4.0 |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 | 2280 | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 |
| Max Read Speed | 7,450 MB/s | 7,000 MB/s | 7,400 MB/s | up to 7400MB/s | 7,100 MB/s | 7300MB/s | 7300MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 6,900 MB/s | not specified | 6,800 MB/s | 6500MB/s | 6,000 MB/s | 6300MB/s | 6200MB/s |
| Cache Type | not specified | DRAM, SLC Cache | DRAM cache | SLC Cache, HMB 3.0 | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Cooling | Heatsink | Aluminum Heatsink, Graphene Heatsink | Aluminum Heatsink | Heatsink | Heatsink | Heatsink | Graphite heatsink |
| Compatibility | not specified | not specified | PS5, Gaming | Laptop, PS5 | Laptop, Desktop, PS5, Gaming | PS5, Gaming | PS5, Gaming |
| NAND Type | not specified | 3D NAND, TLC | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Size | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB | 2TB |
| Material | not specified | Aluminum | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 0.96 × 0.33 inches | 23.6 × 23.6 × 33.5 inches | not specified | not specified | 3.15 × 0.92 × 0.38 inches | not specified | 3.15 × 0.94 × 0.38 inches |
| Weight | 0.96 ounces | 1.62 ounces | not specified | 1.71 ounces | 1.23 ounces | 1.76 ounces | 2.12 ounces |
| Color | Black | A440 | C930 | Black | Black | not specified | Blue |
| Model | MZ-V9P2T0CW | A0039238 | K02TBM2SP0-C93 | LNM790X002T-RN9NU | CT2000P310SSD5-01 | Vansuny 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD | FX910 |
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Frequently asked questions
Which Samsung 990 PRO alternative has a DRAM cache?
The Teamgroup T-Force A440 and KLEVV CRAS C930 both include DRAM cache. This memory chip helps manage data flow more efficiently than cache-only solutions. It supports consistent write speeds during heavy sustained loads, which is useful for large file transfers and complex creative work.
Are there PCIe Gen4 SSDs with heatsinks for PS5?
Yes, several options fit the PlayStation 5. The KLEVV CRAS C930, Vansuny 2TB, and Fikwot FX910 are all explicitly listed as compatible with PS5. They all feature integrated heatsinks to manage thermal output within the console's M.2 slot while delivering Gen4 speeds.
What is the best budget Samsung 990 PRO alternative?
The Lexar NM790 2TB with Heatsink is ranked as the best budget choice. It delivers top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds without a dedicated DRAM cache, relying instead on efficient power usage and thermal management. It suits gamers and creators who prioritize high throughput over specific caching architectures.
Which heatsink SSD is best for laptops?
The Crucial P310 2TB Gen4 SSD is identified as the best option for laptops. It offers solid Gen4 performance and broad device compatibility for both laptops and desktops. The integrated heatsink removes the need to buy a separate cooler, making it a versatile upgrade for mobile systems.
Does the Samsung 990 PRO lack DRAM cache compared to others?
Yes, the Samsung 990 PRO does not include a DRAM cache, unlike the Teamgroup T-Force A440 and KLEVV CRAS C930. This difference affects how the drive handles sustained heavy loads. Drives with DRAM cache maintain more consistent write speeds during large file transfers.
What cooling solutions do these alternatives use?
Most drives use aluminum or graphite heatsinks for thermal stability. The Teamgroup T-Force A440 features an aluminum heatsink. The Fikwot FX910 includes a graphite heatsink. These materials help dissipate heat from the NAND and controller, ensuring stable performance in standard M.2 slots.
Which drive is best for high-performance gaming and creative work?
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB remains the top pick for these tasks. It delivers top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance and prioritizes maximum sequential speeds. Its integrated heatsink ensures thermal stability, making it ideal for users who demand the highest throughput for demanding applications.
Can I use a heatsink SSD in a standard M.2 slot?
Yes, all listed drives use the M.2 2280 form factor, which fits standard slots. The Samsung 990 PRO and Crucial P310 are specifically noted for their fit in standard M.2 slots. The integrated heatsinks are designed to work within these constraints without requiring additional mounting hardware.