Weekly Tech Digest: Exploring the Latest in Storage Technology

Welcome to this week’s tech digest, where we unpack the most exciting developments in the world of storage technology and beyond. This week, our focus is on groundbreaking advancements in NAND flash memory, the evolution of portable SSDs, and the intersection of AI with data storage. Here’s what made headlines:

SK Hynix’s 321-Layer NAND Flash Memory: A Technological Leap

This week, SK Hynix made waves by announcing the mass production of the world’s first 321-layer NAND flash memory. This innovation represents a monumental leap from their already record-breaking 238-layer technology introduced just a year ago. NAND flash memory, often likened to a digital filing cabinet, is fundamental to storing data in devices ranging from smartphones to SSDs.

The highlight of this new generation is its “4D NAND” architecture, which enables memory layers to be stacked higher while maintaining stability and reliability. This innovation also improves data transfer speeds by 12%, significantly reducing wait times when handling large files. For instance, transferring a 10GB video now takes mere seconds, revolutionizing workflows for professionals managing large datasets.

SanDisk Extreme Pro SSD with USB 4: Speed and Durability Combined

In related news, SanDisk launched its new Extreme Pro SSD series, equipped with USB 4 technology. These drives offer blazing transfer speeds of up to 3,800 MB/s, making them some of the fastest portable SSDs on the market. USB 4 has become a game-changer for external storage, bridging the gap between portability and performance.

SanDisk also emphasized durability, featuring aluminum housings and IP65 certification for water and dust resistance. These drives are particularly appealing to creatives and professionals who often operate in demanding environments, as they can handle drops and adverse conditions without compromising performance.

CrystalDiskMark Benchmarking Tool: Staying Relevant

The latest update to CrystalDiskMark, version 8.0.6, was another highlight this week. Known as the go-to tool for measuring drive speeds, the software continues to evolve with features like dark mode and improved analytics for NVMe SSDs. As storage technologies advance, tools like CrystalDiskMark remain essential for consumers and professionals seeking to understand the real-world performance of their devices.

Western Digital’s SanDisk SSD Reliability Issues Resurface

Not all storage news was positive. Reports emerged of previous reliability issues with certain SanDisk SSDs, caused by soldering defects that led to data loss. Western Digital has since addressed these problems, emphasizing the importance of reliability alongside speed in storage devices. These incidents serve as a reminder of the critical role of data integrity in storage solutions.

The Role of Storage in AI and On-Device Intelligence

AI has become a significant driver of storage innovation, and this week’s discussion highlighted the connection. Faster and more reliable NAND memory is essential for AI training, enabling algorithms to process massive datasets efficiently. The 321-layer NAND technology is expected to power next-generation AI applications, from real-time language translation to predictive health monitoring.

On-device AI is also gaining traction, where devices like smartphones process data locally instead of relying on the cloud. This approach improves privacy while reducing latency, opening up possibilities for smarter wearables and mobile applications.

Future of Storage: Ethics and Revolutionary Possibilities

As storage technology continues to evolve, it raises important ethical questions about data privacy and security. This week’s discussions delved into potential future scenarios, such as embedding massive storage capacities into tiny chips or making physical storage obsolete through advanced cloud integration. However, these advancements must be paired with robust ethical considerations to ensure responsible use.

Conclusion

This week showcased the rapid pace of innovation in storage technology, from SK Hynix’s groundbreaking advancements to the practical implications of SanDisk’s latest SSDs. At the same time, discussions on AI integration and ethical concerns remind us that with great power comes great responsibility. As we look forward, the evolution of storage technology promises to reshape how we store, access, and interact with data.

Stay tuned for next week’s updates, and don’t forget to share your thoughts on these exciting developments!

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

If you like this service, please consider supporting us.
We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you. Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which is used to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H. You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks! To find out more about how to support this advice service check HERE   If you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver   Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

WE LOVE COFFEE

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

     

High-Capacity SSDs Redefine Storage for Data Centers

The storage industry saw game-changing advancements this week with the release of groundbreaking SSDs that push capacity and performance to new limits.

• Phison Pascari D205V PCIe Gen5 SSD
  Phison introduced a world-first 128TB SSD aimed at data centers, boasting read speeds of 14,600 MB/s and an incredible 3,000K IOPS. This drive sets a new standard for high-density storage while reducing the physical and operational footprint of traditional hard drives.
• Solidigm D5-P5336 SSD
  Solidigm’s 122TB SSD made waves as the first to offer unlimited random write endurance for five years, making it a standout solution for AI and data-heavy applications. Designed for NAS and server environments, this drive consumes up to 84% less power compared to hybrid HDD/TLC setups.
• Micron 6550 ION NVMe SSD
  Micron’s latest 60TB SSD claims the title of the fastest data center SSD, with sequential read speeds of 12GB/s. Leveraging advanced G8 NAND technology, it balances speed, efficiency, and density to optimize AI training workloads and large-scale NVMe deployments.

Backup Solutions and Business Data Security

• TerraMaster Launches Integrated Backup Servers
  TerraMaster announced five new backup server models, ranging from compact desktop options to rackmount solutions for large enterprises. Paired with their proprietary BBS Business Backup Suite, these devices offer centralized backup, cloud sync, and encrypted storage, ensuring businesses can efficiently protect their data.

Windows Server 2025: The Next Step in Hybrid Cloud

Microsoft unveiled Windows Server 2025, packed with features that emphasize security and hybrid cloud capabilities:

• Security Enhancements: SMB over QUIC offers secure file-sharing over the internet, while updates to Active Directory add new defenses against brute force and relay attacks.
• Cloud Integration: Hot-patching via Azure Arc reduces downtime for critical updates, and advanced software-defined networking enhances hybrid cloud agility.
• Performance Gains: A 60% improvement in storage IOPs and optimized support for AI/ML workloads make it ideal for data-intensive enterprises.

Innovations in Edge Computing and Consumer Memory

• Innodisk E1.S Edge Server SSD
  Targeting the growing edge computing market, Innodisk’s E1.S SSD delivers enhanced thermal management and reliability for data-intensive environments. It’s an ideal solution for bridging the gap between industrial and data center SSDs.
• OWC Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A Memory Card
  Designed for Sony cameras, OWC’s 240GB card offers read speeds of 1850 MB/s and VPG200 certification for compatibility with demanding recording modes. It’s an affordable yet professional-grade option for content creators.

Pushing the Limits: Overclocking Raspberry Pi 5

Enthusiasts from Skatterbencher overclocked a Raspberry Pi 5 to a staggering 3.6GHz using liquid nitrogen cooling. While the experiment revealed hardware limitations such as power regulation and clock speed constraints, it highlighted the device’s untapped potential.

NetApp Expands Enterprise Storage Offerings

• AFF A-Series and C-Series Models
  NetApp introduced new AFF A-Series models (A20, A30, A50) for high-performance storage, focusing on sub-millisecond latency and ransomware protection. The C-Series models (C30, C60, C80) target general-purpose workloads with storage density and efficiency.
• Updates to StorageGRID and New SGF6112 System
  Enhancements to StorageGRID 11.9 and the SGF6112 system address the growing demands of object storage, offering scalable solutions for data lake modernization.

Key Takeaways

This week highlighted the ongoing evolution of storage, data protection, and cloud integration technologies:

• Enterprise storage reaches new heights with record-breaking SSD capacities and faster performance.
• Microsoft’s Windows Server 2025 bridges security and cloud agility, setting the stage for hybrid workloads.
• Overclocking experiments showcase the creativity of tech enthusiasts pushing hardware boundaries.

Whether you’re a business optimizing your data infrastructure or a tech enthusiast exploring the latest innovations, these developments mark another step forward in the world of technology. Stay tuned for next week’s updates!

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

If you like this service, please consider supporting us.
We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you. Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which is used to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H. You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks! To find out more about how to support this advice service check HERE   If you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver   Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

WE LOVE COFFEE

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

     

List Of compatible NVME M.2 SSD for Synology NAS

When choosing NVMe for caching you need to look at reliability ratings such as DWPD/MTBF. Here are a few on the list
https://nascompares.com/answer/nvme-m-2-list-with-endurance-dwpd-mtbf/
Caching means a lot of read and write operations, unlike regular storage situation.
You would need to look at models with 0.5DWPD and above

970 pro    – 0.66DWPD
Seagate FireCuda 510   – 0.7 DWPD
Seagate FireCuda 520  -0.9 DWPD
Seagate IronWolf 525 – 0.7 DWPD
Seagate Firecuda 530    – 0.7 DWPD
Synology SNV3400    – 0.68DWPD
WD Red SN700              – 1.0DWPD

I hope this helps.

Share your chosen NVME M.2 with NAS community!

						+ADD
Seagate	IronWolf 510	all	0.9-1.0 DWPD	DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DS1821+, DS420+, DS720+, DS920+, DS1520+, DS918+	OPEN 21st Dec	▲ 85%
WD	Red SN700	all	1.0DWPD	DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DS1821+, DS420+, DS720+, DS920+, DS1520+, DS918+	OPEN 21st Dec	▲ 69%
Samsung	980 PRO	all	0.3DWPD	DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DS1821+, DS420+, DS720+, DS920+, DS1520+, DS918+	OPEN 30th Dec	▼ 84%
Seagate	Firecuda 530	all	0.7 DWPD	DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DS1821+, DS420+, DS720+, DS920+, DS1520+, DS918+	OPEN 21st Dec	▲ 96%
Samsung	970 PRO	all	0.66DWPD	DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DS1821+, DS420+, DS720+, DS920+, DS1520+, DS918+	OPEN 21st Dec	▲ 78%
Seagate	IronWolf 525	all	0.7 DWPD	DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DS1821+, DS420+, DS720+, DS920+, DS1520+, DS918+	OPEN 21st Dec	▲ 92%
Seagate	FireCuda 520	all	0.9 DWPD	DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DS1821+, DS420+, DS720+, DS920+, DS1520+, DS918+	OPEN 21st Dec	▲ 69%
Samsung	970 EVO Plus	1TiB	0.329	DS1621xs+	OPEN 4th Nov	▲ 71%
SK Hynix	Gold P31	1TB	0.4 DWPD	DS1821+	OPEN 9th Sep	▲ 75%
Samsung	970 EVO Plus	1TiB	0.329	DS1821+	OPEN 12th Nov	▲ 100%
SK Hynix	SC308	128	0.2	DS920+	OPEN 7th Mar	▲ 50%
SK Hynix	SC308	128	not working	DS920+	OPEN 7th Mar
WD	sn730 SED	256	0.428	DS920+	OPEN 10th Mar	▼ 50%
Synology	SNV3400	all	0.68DWPD	DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DS1821+, DS420+, DS720+, DS920+, DS1520+, DS918+	OPEN 21st Dec	▼ 33%
SK Hynix	SC308	128	not working	DS920+	OPEN 7th Mar	▼ 0%
WD	sn730 SED	256	0.428	DS920+	OPEN 9th Mar	▼ 40%
SK Hynix	hfs256gde9x081n	256GB	Not WOrking	DS1621+	OPEN 14th Jun	▼ 0%

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

If you like this service, please consider supporting us.
We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you. Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which is used to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H. You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks! To find out more about how to support this advice service check HERE   If you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver   Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

WE LOVE COFFEE

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

     

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is one of the most compact yet powerful NAS solutions available in 2024. With its 8-bay, all-SSD configuration and small form factor, it stands out in a crowded market for small businesses and tech enthusiasts looking for high-performance storage. It promises to deliver fast speeds, silent operation, and a robust RAID system that offers flexibility for future upgrades. But is it the right NAS for you? Designed with both professional and domestic users in mind, the F8 SSD Plus supports demanding tasks like virtualization, database management, and media streaming while maintaining an impressively small footprint. With TerraMaster’s latest operating system (TOS 6), this NAS not only aims to be powerful but user-friendly, offering a versatile range of features suitable for different use cases. Let’s break down what I love and what I hate about the F8 SSD PLUS NAS.

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

You really have to give Terramaster credit for the F8 SSD Plus, as it stands out impressively among the many brands entering the dedicated flash SSD storage market recently. Despite its compact size, it offers more storage than most competitors, though long-term users may be concerned about heat management. Terramaster has addressed this with effective heatsink placement, angled airflow, and necessary SSD performance adjustments to control temperature. While not perfect and lacking some high-end business features like ECC memory and network failover, it suits prosumers, enthusiasts, and small to medium businesses. Content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases will benefit from this system, despite the absence of some enterprise-level hardware. The TOS 6 software has improved significantly, offering a wide array of features such as flexible RAID, BTRFS support, multi-tiered backup, and more. Though the “Windows 11” aesthetic might not appeal to everyone, and there is a notable absence of ZFS, the ability to install third-party OS options like UnRAID and TrueNAS adds versatility. The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is a capable, affordable, and impressive NAS solution, holding its own in a competitive market for 2024/2025, even if it doesn’t match the software flair of Synology or the aggressive hardware approach of QNAP.

SOFTWARE - 8/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.4

PROS

Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor.
Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently.
Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases.
Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more.
Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options.
Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance.
Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments.
Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions.
Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.

CONS

Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments.
Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer.
Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some.
No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now? TERRAMASTER F8 SSD PLUS Amazon USA $499.99 ($100 off) [LINK]

Why You Should Consider the F8 SSD Plus

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus shines in many areas, offering a powerful and compact solution for those in need of fast, reliable NAS storage. With its cutting-edge hardware, flexible RAID options, and user-friendly software, it stands out as an excellent choice for both small businesses and tech-savvy individuals. Let’s explore the key strengths that make this NAS a solid investment for your storage needs.

Compact and High-Capacity Design

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus stands out for its compact design and massive storage capacity. Despite its small size—comparable to a paperback book—it houses eight M.2 NVMe SSD slots that can hold up to 64TB of storage. This makes it a highly efficient choice for users who need substantial storage but don’t have much physical space to spare. Whether you’re a small business managing large databases or a media professional working with high-resolution video files, the F8 SSD Plus delivers excellent performance in a small, space-saving package.

Moreover, its all-SSD architecture means that this NAS is not only faster than its HDD-based counterparts but also operates much more quietly. This is a key advantage for users who need their NAS to function in environments where noise can be a distraction, such as offices or home studios. By using solid-state drives exclusively, the F8 SSD Plus significantly reduces noise, heat, and power consumption compared to traditional NAS systems. This makes it perfect for users looking for a compact yet high-performance storage solution without the drawbacks of mechanical hard drives.

High-Speed Performance with Intel i3

Another key feature of the F8 SSD Plus is its high-speed performance, thanks to its Intel Core i3 processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM. The 8-core CPU provides plenty of processing power for high-demand tasks like virtualization, database management, and multimedia editing. Whether you’re running multiple virtual machines or editing 4K video, this NAS can handle it. Paired with a 10GbE Ethernet port, it ensures rapid data transfer, giving users quick access to their files and resources across the network.

This robust processing power makes the F8 SSD Plus especially suited for small businesses that require reliable, fast data processing without investing in bulky or expensive rack-mounted servers. It’s also a great fit for media professionals who need to work with large video files and require fast, seamless read/write capabilities. The Intel i3 CPU provides enough speed and power to keep everything running smoothly, while the 10GbE port ensures that file transfers happen at optimal speeds.

Flexible RAID Options with TRAID

A major selling point of the F8 SSD Plus is its flexible RAID options, particularly TerraMaster’s TRAID technology. Unlike traditional RAID configurations that lock you into specific drive sizes and capacities, TRAID allows you to mix and match SSDs over time, upgrading as your storage needs grow without losing data. This is an excellent feature for future-proofing your NAS, as SSD prices continue to drop and larger capacities become more affordable.

This flexibility makes the F8 SSD Plus an attractive option for users who want to start with smaller, more affordable drives and upgrade as needed. Instead of being locked into a particular drive configuration, users can easily swap in larger SSDs down the line, taking advantage of price drops and newer technology. For businesses and power users who need their NAS to evolve with their storage requirements, the F8 SSD Plus offers a smart, scalable solution.

User-Friendly TOS 6 Software

The user-friendly software bundled with the F8 SSD Plus is another reason to consider this NAS. TerraMaster’s TOS 6 operating system offers an intuitive and feature-rich user experience. It includes support for virtualization, Docker containers, snapshots, and comprehensive backup solutions, making it a versatile platform for both business and personal use. Whether you’re managing data backups or running a multimedia server, TOS 6 provides a modern, responsive interface to streamline your workflow.

Additionally, the F8 SSD Plus allows for third-party OS installations like TrueNAS and Unraid, offering flexibility for users who prefer different software environments. This feature ensures that tech-savvy users can customize their NAS experience to fit specific needs, without compromising on performance or reliability. With TOS 6 or an alternative OS, the F8 SSD Plus adapts to a variety of use cases, from virtualized environments to high-speed data backup.

Keep in mind however, that the TOS NAS software is still no rival for well established NAS software platforms such as Synology DSM, QNAP QuTS, TrueNAS and UnRAID.

Considerations Before Buying

While the Terramaster F8 SSD Plus boasts a range of impressive features, it’s important to consider some potential limitations before making a decision. Like any NAS system, the F8 SSD Plus has areas where it might not fully meet the needs of every user. Whether it’s performance constraints, memory concerns, or certain design choices, these factors could influence whether this NAS is the right fit for you. Let’s take a closer look at the key drawbacks you should be aware of.

Limited Gen 3 SSD Speeds

Despite its strengths, the Terramaster F8 SSD Plus does have some limitations, particularly in terms of SSD speed. The M.2 slots in this NAS only support Gen 3 x1 speeds, which caps each SSD’s performance at around 1,000MB/s. While this might be sufficient for many users, it can be a bottleneck for those who need to fully leverage high-performance SSDs. If you’re planning to use top-tier Gen 3 or Gen 4 SSDs, you might not be able to utilize their full potential with this NAS.

This limitation could be a concern for media professionals or businesses that require extremely fast read/write speeds for tasks like video editing or high-demand database applications. Even though the overall performance is solid, the restricted SSD speed might hold back users who need every ounce of performance from their storage. For those users, it’s worth considering whether the speed trade-off is justified by the NAS’s other strengths, like compactness and flexibility.

No ECC Memory

Another potential drawback is the lack of ECC memory. ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory is often preferred in data-critical environments because it helps prevent data corruption by detecting and correcting errors in real-time. The F8 SSD Plus does not feature ECC memory, which might be a dealbreaker for users handling sensitive or mission-critical data. For businesses that prioritize data integrity, especially in virtualization and database scenarios, this omission could be a significant downside.

While the system’s 16GB of DDR5 RAM is fast and capable, some users may feel that ECC memory is essential for ensuring data stability. Particularly at this price point, the absence of ECC memory might be seen as a missed opportunity for TerraMaster to appeal to enterprise users who demand the highest level of data security. If data accuracy is a top priority for your workflow, it’s worth weighing this factor carefully.

Single 10GbE Port

Another consideration is the single 10GbE port. While the inclusion of 10GbE is a huge advantage for networking speed, the fact that the F8 SSD Plus only has one port might limit its networking potential for more advanced users. For most users, a single 10GbE port will be sufficient, but for those needing to handle multiple high-speed connections or larger-scale environments, this could be a bottleneck.

Note, USB to 5GbE and 2.5GbE adapters CAN be used, for as little as $30

The potential bottleneck becomes more noticeable when handling very large data sets or multiple users accessing the system simultaneously. In a multi-user environment, the single 10GbE port might not provide enough throughput to fully take advantage of the NAS’s speed and SSD performance. If your usage requires extensive network bandwidth, this is something to keep in mind before deciding.

Mid-Tier CPU

Finally, the Intel i3 CPU, while strong, may not be powerful enough for users with the highest processing demands. In 2024, there are NAS systems available with even more powerful processors, such as Intel’s i5 or AMD Ryzen models, which offer superior performance for heavy workloads like 4K video editing, large-scale virtualization, or enterprise-level tasks.

Although the i3 CPU delivers solid performance for small businesses and multimedia tasks, users with more intensive needs might find it limiting. The lack of extra power lanes for the SSDs and network could restrict performance in high-demand environments, making this NAS a less appealing option for enterprise use. If raw processing power is your priority, it’s worth considering whether a higher-tier CPU would be a better fit for your needs.

Verdict – Is the Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Any Good?

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus offers a compelling combination of compact design, high performance, and flexible storage options, making it a strong contender in the 8-bay NAS market for 2024. It excels in environments where space and noise are a concern, delivering excellent performance for small businesses, media professionals, and tech enthusiasts alike. With features like flexible TRAID technology and a powerful Intel Core i3 processor, it’s a great option for users who need fast, scalable storage.

However, potential buyers should consider the limitations, such as the restricted SSD speeds and the lack of ECC memory, especially if they require the highest levels of performance and data protection. For most users, the F8 SSD Plus strikes a great balance between power and practicality, but those with more demanding needs may want to explore other options. In summary, if you’re looking for a compact, high-performance NAS that can grow with your storage needs, the F8 SSD Plus is definitely worth considering.

PROs of the F8 SSD PLUS NAS	CONs of the F8 SSD PLUS NAS
Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor. Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently. Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases. Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more. Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options. Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance. Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments. Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions. Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.	Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments. Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer. Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some. No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
[contact-form-7]
Join Inner Circle

Want to follow specific category? Also Read...Black Friday 2024 - Data StoraWeek 47 Tech Roundup: 321-LayeTerramaster Black Friday 2024 Week 46 Tech Roundup: Record-BBlack Friday 2024 - Data StoraTerramaster F8 SSD PLUS - SHOUTerramaster T9-500 Pro NAS RevTerramaster T9-500 Pro NAS RevWEEK 42: BeeStation VulnerabilTerramaster F4-424 Max NAS Rev Subscribe

You can also follow specific search terms:

This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

TRY CHAT

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

    

 

WE LOVE COFFEE

October 12, 2024: TerraMaster Releases TOS 6.0.512 Update

TerraMaster has released TOS 6.0.512 (X86), a crucial update for its NAS devices. This update focuses on enhancing system stability by addressing several key issues that have been affecting users. It fixes problems related to SMB workgroup names, which previously caused disruptions in file-sharing environments. The update also improves network interface handling, ensuring better connectivity and fewer drops, and enhances Docker container support, making it easier to deploy and manage containers on your NAS. Additionally, it addresses file permission errors that could have led to unauthorized access or restrictions, and refines the notification system for array degradation and email alerts, making system monitoring more reliable. Users currently running TOS 6.0.500 or later are encouraged to upgrade to benefit from these optimizations and fixes.

October 14, 2024: KIOXIA Unveils PCIe 5.0 XD8 Series SSDs

KIOXIA has officially launched its XD8 Series PCIe 5.0 EDSFF E1.S SSDs, pushing the envelope in cloud and hyperscale data storage. These new SSDs are designed to meet the demanding needs of next-generation data centers, offering enhanced performance, higher capacities, and a compact form factor that improves storage density. The XD8 Series supports the Open Compute Project (OCP) Datacenter NVMe SSD v2.5 specification, ensuring compatibility with a broad range of cloud infrastructure. With PCIe 5.0 technology, these drives deliver twice the data throughput of previous generations, providing faster access speeds and lower latency, ideal for high-performance applications like AI and big data analytics. Microsoft Azure has already adopted KIOXIA’s XD8 SSDs for use in its data centers, signaling a significant shift toward PCIe 5.0-based solutions in the cloud computing world.

October 15, 2024: Western Digital Launches 32TB Ultrastar DC HC690

Western Digital has unveiled its groundbreaking Ultrastar DC HC690, the world’s first 11-disk HDD, offering a massive 32TB of storage without increasing the physical size of the drive. This breakthrough in HDD technology was made possible by reducing disk spacing and optimizing mechanical components, allowing for unprecedented storage density in a standard 3.5-inch form factor. The HC690 is designed to meet the ever-growing demand for high-capacity storage in data centers, where maximizing space efficiency is critical. It uses Shingled Magnetic Recording (SMR) technology to pack more data onto each disk, and it’s also equipped with advanced features like OptiNAND and HelioSeal for improved reliability and performance. This drive is set to play a pivotal role in addressing the exponential growth in data storage needs driven by AI, machine learning, and cloud services.

October 16, 2024: Synology Issues Security Advisories for BeePhotos and Synology Photos

Synology has issued important security advisories for its BeePhotos and Synology Photos applications, highlighting multiple vulnerabilities that could expose users to significant risks. In BeePhotos (Synology-SA-24:13), remote authenticated users could potentially access and delete specific files, posing a threat to data integrity. A fix has already been released, and users are urged to update to the latest version immediately. For Synology Photos (Synology-SA-24:14), similar vulnerabilities have been identified, allowing remote users to read files and access non-sensitive information. However, the patch for Synology Photos is still in development, with no specific release date confirmed. Synology recommends users monitor for updates and apply them as soon as they become available to safeguard against unauthorized access and data breaches.

October 16, 2024: QNAP’s TVR-AI200 Wins GOOD DESIGN AWARD

QNAP’s innovative TVR-AI200 smart surveillance system has been honored with the GOOD DESIGN AWARD in Japan, recognizing its exceptional design and functionality in the realm of security technology. The TVR-AI200 is an all-in-one surveillance machine that integrates video recording, AI-driven analysis, and management capabilities into a single compact unit, making it a versatile solution for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It leverages advanced AI algorithms to detect anomalies, monitor environments in real-time, and provide actionable insights through smart alerts and detailed analytics. Its seamless integration with QNAP’s QVR Surveillance software allows for easy configuration and control, giving users a powerful yet user-friendly tool to manage their security needs. The device was showcased at a physical exhibition in Tokyo and will be available for a broader release later this year.

October 17, 2024: Synology Resolves Critical BeeStation Vulnerability

Synology has resolved a critical vulnerability in its BeeStation Manager (Synology-SA-24:15), which previously allowed remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability, rated as “critical,” posed a significant threat to users, as it could enable attackers to take control of the NAS without requiring authentication, bypassing even strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA). By exploiting this flaw, attackers could potentially run malicious code, steal sensitive data, or even encrypt files for ransom. Synology has released a patch in the form of an update to BeeStation OS 1.1-65373 or higher, and all users are strongly encouraged to update their systems immediately. Failing to apply this update could leave systems exposed to serious risks, even if other security measures like firewalls or VPNs are in place.

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

If you like this service, please consider supporting us.
We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you. Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which is used to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H. You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks! To find out more about how to support this advice service check HERE   If you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver   Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

WE LOVE COFFEE

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

     

Welcome to another episode of the Weekly Tech Digest, your go-to source for the latest in tech, storage solutions, and innovations. Today we’ve got a jam-packed episode filled with exciting announcements, product launches, and key industry updates from the past week. Let’s get started!

Lockerstor Gen3 NAS Models: The Ultimate Performance NAS

Kicking things off this week, we have the launch of ASUSTOR’s highly anticipated Lockerstor Gen3 series. This new lineup includes the Lockerstor 4, 6, 8, and 10 models, each offering incredible power and features for small businesses, content creators, and power users alike.

Here are some highlights:

Powered by AMD Ryzen Embedded processors, these NAS units provide desktop-class performance with up to 3.8 GHz speeds.
Support for DDR5 ECC RAM, ensuring better data integrity and protection.
Four M.2 NVMe slots equipped with PCIe 4.0, doubling the performance of SSD storage for faster file handling and content creation.
USB4 ports with 40Gbps speeds and dual 10-Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing lightning-fast data transfers.
ASUSTOR has also collaborated with Adobe Creative Cloud, making these NAS units an excellent choice for media professionals who need speed, capacity, and reliability when working with large video or audio files.

Not to mention, MyArchive Cold Backup Technology allows for unlimited storage expansion, making it perfect for long-term data retention and backup solutions.

ADM 5.0.0.R9N1: The Latest Software Update for Lockerstor Gen3

Along with the new hardware, ASUSTOR has rolled out ADM 5.0.0.R9N1, a significant update to their NAS operating system. This update brings new security features and performance enhancements, including:

The ADM Defender, a new firewall tool with customizable profiles to better protect your NAS from malicious attacks.
Support for IP over USB4, allowing for even faster file transfers via USB4 devices.
The Linux Kernel has been upgraded to version 6.6 LTS, bringing enhanced security patches and better overall system performance.
If you haven’t updated your NAS yet, now’s the time!

Samsung’s PCIe 5.0 PM9E1 SSDs Enter Mass Production

Moving on to the storage market, Samsung has announced the mass production of its latest PCIe 5.0 PM9E1 SSD, built with their 8th-generation V-NAND technology. These SSDs boast read speeds of up to 14.5GB/s and write speeds of 13GB/s—perfect for data-intensive applications like AI and large-scale content creation.

With capacities ranging from 512GB to 4TB, these SSDs offer enhanced performance and efficiency, with over 50% improved power consumption compared to previous generations. It’s a fantastic development for both consumers and enterprise users looking for high-capacity, high-performance SSD solutions.

AMD Ryzen 9000X3D Benchmarks Show Major Gains

Next up, we have a major leak regarding AMD’s Ryzen 9000X3D processors, with benchmarks showing double-digit performance gains. The Ryzen 9 9950X3D is seeing a 12% increase in single-core performance and a 17% boost in multi-core tasks compared to the previous generation.

Meanwhile, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D is showing a whopping 32% improvement in multi-core performance! These processors are geared to be a game-changer for heavy workloads and gaming enthusiasts.

IEEE Roadmap Predicts 60TB HDDs by 2028

In the world of hard drives, the IEEE roadmap for storage technologies has revealed that 60TB HDDs could be a reality by 2028. Technologies like HAMR and MAMR are expected to double hard drive capacities within the next four years.

By 2038, we could even see 100TB hard drives, offering a huge leap in data storage capabilities for enterprise and data-heavy industries. While the speeds might not increase dramatically, the sheer capacity will change how data is stored and managed.

Greenliant Sampling High-Endurance NVMe M.2 SSDs

Greenliant has also been busy, sampling their new high-endurance NVMe M.2 SSDs. These SSDs, designed for industrial and defense applications, offer up to 150,000 program-erase cycles, making them perfect for long-term, high-reliability deployments.

With support for extreme temperatures, ranging from -40°C to +95°C, these drives are designed to handle the harshest conditions while maintaining high-speed performance.

Intel Resolves Instability Issues for 13th and 14th Gen CPUs

In CPU news, Intel has confirmed that its 0x12B microcode update has finally resolved the instability issues affecting its 13th and 14th generation processors. This update addresses elevated voltage concerns during idle or light activities, preventing system crashes.

Moving forward, Intel has assured users that future processors—like the upcoming Core Ultra 200 series—will not encounter these issues.

Patriot Memory Launches Viper PV573 PCIe 5.0 SSD

Patriot Memory has launched their new Viper PV573 PCIe 5.0 SSD, featuring read speeds up to 14,000 MB/s and write speeds of 12,000 MB/s. This drive also comes with a state-of-the-art cooling system to maintain optimal performance even under heavy load.

With its 232-layer TLC NAND and built-in error-correcting technologies, the Viper PV573 is designed for gaming, content creation, and any other data-intensive applications.

Unraid 7.0.0-beta.3 Released

For our Unraid users out there, version 7.0.0-beta.3 is now available! This beta release includes significant improvements across storage, networking, and Docker integrations.

Some of the highlights include:

Tailscale VPN integration for secure remote access.
Changes to the storage array system, now making the Unraid array optional for more flexible storage setups.

Synology BeeStation OS 1.1 Beta Update

In the NAS world, Synology has just released the BeeStation OS 1.1 Beta. This update introduces improvements like better support for file syncing and video formats, and it also offloads resource-intensive tasks to external devices to improve system performance.

This is a beta version, so while it brings many improvements, Synology recommends users wait for the final release before using it in a production environment.

SanDisk Launches 2TB SD and microSD Cards

And finally, SanDisk has launched 2TB SD and microSD cards as part of their Extreme Pro series. These cards offer sequential transfer rates of up to 250MB/s for reads and 150MB/s for writes, providing a new level of portable storage.

For those needing even higher speeds, microSD Express cards are also available, delivering faster data transfer rates in smaller capacities.

And that wraps up this week’s Tech Digest! If you enjoyed today’s episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. We’ll be back next week with more updates and insights from the tech world. Until next time, stay connected and keep exploring the latest innovations!

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

If you like this service, please consider supporting us.
We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you. Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which is used to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H. You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks! To find out more about how to support this advice service check HERE   If you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver   Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

WE LOVE COFFEE

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

     

Samsung has long been a leader in the SSD industry, known for their ability to balance performance, reliability, and innovation across their product lines. From early offerings like the Samsung 960 EVO to their more recent hits like the 980 Pro, Samsung consistently delivers SSDs that push the envelope in both consumer and professional storage spaces. Their latest entry, the Samsung 990 EVO Plus, marks their first foray into the Gen 5 SSD market, but with a focus that differentiates it from some of the high-performance competition. While many other brands are racing to deliver the highest read/write speeds and performance benchmarks, Samsung has taken a more balanced approach here, focusing on efficiency, power consumption, and durability.

Building on the legacy of the Samsung 990 EVO, the 990 EVO Plus brings a number of upgrades in key areas, such as improved random performance, lower power consumption, and better thermal management. But is it enough to make a mark in the increasingly crowded Gen 5 SSD landscape? Let’s take an in-depth look at the Samsung 990 EVO Plus and see how it stacks up against both its predecessors and the competition.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus Gen 5 SSD Review – Quick Conclusion

The Samsung 990 EVO Plus is a well-rounded SSD that balances power efficiency, random performance, and thermal management—making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize reliability and efficiency over raw speed. Compared to the 990 EVO, it offers significant improvements in power consumption and random performance, while still maintaining the same level of durability and endurance that Samsung is known for. However, for users who demand the absolute best in terms of sequential speeds or IOPS for gaming and data-heavy workloads, the 990 EVO Plus may not be the fastest option available. The lack of DRAM and the reliance on HMB technology might not appeal to those looking for top-tier performance, but for everyday users and professionals working with large files, this drive provides a reliable, long-lasting solution. The Samsung 990 EVO Plus shines as an efficient, reliable SSD for users who need dependable storage without the high power draw or heat output of some other Gen 5 SSDs. It may not be the fastest drive on the market, but its balance of power efficiency, random performance, and thermal management makes it a compelling option for a wide range of users. HOWEVER, but aware that this is a drive that is built for efficiency and if used in a mid-range system, will not hit the same performance numbers that a DRAM equipped SSD would be able to achieve. It’s another example of Samsung persuing a different SSD marketing and production strategy than Seagate and WD, but it’s still too early to see if this will be ultimately successful i nthe battle of Speed vs Efficiency vs Price in 2024/2025!

BUILD QUALITY - 9/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.0

PROS

Superior Power Efficiency (73% better than 990 EVO)
Low Heat Generation, Ideal for Laptops and Small Form Factor PCs
Improved Random Performance for Gaming and Creative Workloads
Excellent Software Support with Samsung Magician 8.2
Great Endurance for a DRAMless Drive
Good mid-tier solution for SSD buyers right now
Provides higher OS performance to users with efficient systems that tend to get bottom-of-the-barrel OS/OEM SSDs in their systems at the point of sale

CONS

Other DRAMless Controllers Perform Better (Phison E31T)
Performance Compared to Higher-End Gen 5 SSDs
Not the Best Choice for Power Users or High-Performance Gaming
The steep numbers promoted by Samsung on this drive (7GB+) are only really possible on a power system that arguably this drive is not targetted for in the first place

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now? These Offers are Checked Daily

Samsung 990 EVO Plus Gen 5 SSD Review – Retail Packaging

Samsung’s packaging for the 990 EVO Plus sticks to their traditional minimalist approach, providing the essentials without unnecessary extras. Inside the box, you’ll find the M.2 NVMe SSD in a protective plastic shell, along with basic installation instructions and information about the 5-year warranty. There’s no heatsink included, which is consistent with Samsung’s aim to keep the drive power-efficient and cool, but it’s worth noting that competitors in the Gen 5 space often include heatsinks to combat thermal throttling.

What stands out, though, is the Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 technology integrated into the drive. This technology boosts write performance during large transfers by creating a pseudo-SLC cache, making it ideal for handling the larger file sizes that come with 8K video editing or high-resolution gaming.

The drive also comes equipped with a pre-applied base panel heat shield located beneath the NAND flash. Unlike other SSDs that place heat shields on the top, this design choice is part of Samsung’s commitment to improving thermal management without the need for active cooling solutions.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus Gen 5 SSD Review – Controller

The controller is one of the most critical components of any SSD, and for the Samsung 990 EVO Plus, Samsung continues to rely on its in-house expertise. The 990 EVO Plus features a Samsung proprietary controller designed specifically for this drive. This gives Samsung greater control over performance, efficiency, and longevity, allowing them to fine-tune the balance between speed and power consumption.

While Samsung hasn’t revealed the exact details of the controller in the 990 EVO plus publically, it is confirmed to be the Piccolo controller featured on the 990 EVO that was released earlier in 2024 and designed with power efficiency in mind. It supports PCIe Gen 5.0 x2, which, although not as fast as PCIe Gen 5.0 x4 drives, provides a significant boost over Gen 4 drives without the same high power draw or thermal challenges. By reducing the number of lanes while maintaining comparable performance, Samsung achieves lower temperatures and better power consumption than many competing drives, making the 990 EVO Plus ideal for compact or thermally constrained environments.

This is a different strategy compared to the Phison E31T controller, which prioritizes raw speed and high IOPS performance. Samsung’s approach in the 990 EVO Plus leans more towards stability and efficiency, making it suitable for a broader range of consumer devices like laptops and desktops that don’t require extreme sequential read/write speeds but need to maintain low power consumption and manage heat effectively. The 990 EVO Plus, with Samsung’s eighth V-NAND technology and Piccolo controller, delivers sequential read
and write speeds up to 7,250MB/s and 6,300MB/s, which improves the sequential read speed by 45% compared to the 990 EVO. And random read and write speeds are up to 1,050K and 1,400K IOPS. The best in-class performance of the 990 EVO Plus is the best solution for users who want to upgrade storage for versatile purposes

Samsung 990 EVO Plus Gen 5 SSD Review – NAND

The Samsung 990 EVO Plus uses the company’s 236-layer V-NAND TLC (Triple-Level Cell), a high-density, high-performance memory that strikes a balance between speed and durability. Samsung has long been a pioneer in NAND technology, and with the 990 EVO Plus, they have integrated their V-NAND V8 technology, which offers higher storage density and faster data transfer rates compared to previous generations.

The 236-layer V-NAND used in the 990 EVO Plus allows for more data to be stored in the same physical space, improving efficiency while keeping costs reasonable. The NAND chips are manufactured in-house, which ensures consistent quality and performance across the product line. In addition, Samsung’s Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 technology works alongside the NAND to dynamically adjust the SLC cache, ensuring that large data transfers remain fast and efficient, even in sustained workloads like 8K video editing or rendering.

The high-density NAND also plays a key role in reducing power consumption, as the advanced node technology used in these chips allows for more efficient data processing with less energy, contributing to the drive’s overall power efficiency and thermal performance.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus Gen 5 SSD Review – Lack of DRAM and Host Memory Buffer (HMB)

One of the more significant design choices in the 990 EVO Plus is the absence of a dedicated DRAM cache. Instead, Samsung opts for Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology, which uses a portion of the system’s main memory (RAM) to handle the mapping table needed for SSD operations.

While DRAM-equipped SSDs generally offer faster performance due to the dedicated buffer for data mapping, the HMB implementation in the 990 EVO Plus is designed to mitigate some of the performance loss typically associated with DRAMless SSDs. By borrowing from the system’s RAM, the drive can still manage high IOPS and maintain relatively quick random access speeds, even in workloads that involve frequent small file transactions like gaming or document editing.

The key advantage of this DRAMless design is cost efficiency and reduced power consumption. SSDs with DRAM tend to consume more power, which isn’t ideal for compact systems or laptops where battery life and heat generation are critical factors. The 990 EVO Plus strikes a balance by using HMB to offer solid performance at a lower cost and with lower power requirements, making it an excellent choice for users looking to upgrade their storage without significantly increasing power consumption. That being said, for users who require maximum IOPS performance, such as in heavy gaming or database applications, the lack of DRAM might be noticeable compared to higher-end SSDs that include dedicated DRAM.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus Gen 5 SSD Review – Power Use and Temperature

One of the standout features of the Samsung 990 EVO Plus is its focus on power efficiency and thermal management. Compared to the 990 EVO, the Plus model achieves up to 16% lower power consumption and a remarkable 73% improvement in power efficiency, making it ideal for users who are concerned about heat and energy usage.

This power efficiency is achieved through several design choices, including the use of advanced V8 TLC NAND and Samsung’s in-house controller, which works to optimize power draw without sacrificing too much in terms of performance. When tested in a mobile environment using the MobileMark 25 benchmark, the 990 EVO Plus consistently consumed less power than competing Gen 5 SSDs, making it a strong candidate for use in laptops, compact desktops, and even gaming consoles where thermal management is key.

In terms of temperatures, the 990 EVO Plus fares well under load. Thanks to the nickel-coated controller and heat spreader label, the drive is able to disperse heat more effectively during sustained write operations. In testing, the drive remained below the Dynamic Thermal Guard (DTG) threshold even during prolonged workloads, meaning users won’t experience performance drops due to thermal throttling. At room temperature (25°C), the drive managed to maintain stable performance, with peak temperatures well within safe operating limits. Compared to higher-performing Gen 5 x4 SSDs, which often require larger heatsinks to prevent overheating, the Samsung 990 EVO Plus remains cool and efficient even without a dedicated heatsink. This makes it a perfect fit for users who need reliable performance without the added worry of thermal throttling, especially in small form factor PCs or other systems with limited cooling capacity.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus, Samsung 990 EVO, and Samsung 990 PRO SSD

When comparing the Samsung 990 EVO Plus, Samsung 990 EVO, and Samsung 990 PRO, each drive has been designed with distinct goals, balancing power efficiency, performance, and endurance for different user bases. The Samsung 990 EVO serves as an entry-level Gen 5 SSD, offering decent performance but focusing primarily on power efficiency and affordability. It is a great option for users who want Gen 5 speeds but are not seeking the absolute highest read and write speeds. The 990 EVO Plus takes this one step further by optimizing random IOPS performance and reducing power consumption even more compared to the 990 EVO, while maintaining low heat output and better endurance.

The Samsung 990 PRO, on the other hand, is Samsung’s high-end consumer SSD that prioritizes maximum performance. With a DRAM cache, high random IOPS, and faster sequential read/write speeds, the 990 PRO is designed for gamers, content creators, and professionals working with large datasets. It provides significantly higher sequential read and write speeds compared to the 990 EVO Plus, but at the cost of higher power consumption and more heat generation. The 990 PRO is also built for those seeking to use the drive in gaming consoles or high-end PCs that can handle its heat output and power requirements.

• Performance: The Samsung 990 PRO delivers the highest speeds, with 7,450 MB/s read and 6,900 MB/s write, outperforming the 990 EVO Plus and 990 EVO. It also offers better random IOPS, making it ideal for gaming and professional tasks.
• Power Consumption: The 990 EVO Plus and 990 EVO consume less power (up to 5W active), while the 990 PRO draws up to 8.6W in burst mode, which may not suit compact or heat-sensitive systems.
• NAND Type: The 990 PRO uses Samsung’s V-NAND 3-bit MLC, offering greater durability and performance than the 236-layer TLC NAND in the 990 EVO and 990 EVO Plus, particularly for heavy workloads.
• DRAM Cache: The 990 PRO features a DRAM cache for improved sustained performance, while the 990 EVO Plus and 990 EVO use HMB technology, which relies on system RAM, offering lower power consumption but slightly reduced performance in demanding tasks.
• Capacity Options: Both the 990 EVO Plus and 990 PRO offer up to 4TB, while the 990 EVO is limited to 2TB, making it less suitable for users needing larger storage.

The Samsung 990 EVO Plus provides a solid middle ground between the 990 EVO and 990 PRO. It offers excellent random performance and efficiency improvements over the 990 EVO while maintaining lower power consumption than the 990 PRO. The 990 PRO, however, is the choice for those seeking top-tier performance for high-end gaming, creative tasks, and data-intensive applications, with its superior read/write speeds, DRAM cache, and higher endurance rating. The 990 EVO Plus is ideal for users who need a balance of power efficiency, performance, and thermal control, making it great for compact systems or laptops. Meanwhile, the 990 EVO serves as a more affordable option for users looking to enter the Gen 5 SSD space without needing the highest performance.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus Gen 5 SSD Review – Performance and Software

In terms of performance, the Samsung 990 EVO Plus offers a balance between speed and efficiency. Sequential read speeds are OFFICIALLY reported at peak at 7,250 MB/s, and write speeds reach 6,300 MB/s, placing it in the upper range of consumer SSDs but below some of the highest-performing Gen 5 x4 drives on the market. Where the 990 EVO Plus excels, however, is in random IOPS performance, which can reach up to 1,400K IOPS—making it a solid choice for gaming, video editing, and other random-intensive workloads.

However, despite these loft/big performance numbers, it is worth noting that these were achieved with a hefty AMD Ryzen9 7950x 16-Core Processor CPU@4.5GHz by Samsung – A system that I think would not typically be used with a DRAMless SSD (as that is a power user rig). So, I decided to run tests on my much more domestic OS class 12th Gen Intel i5 system, wit h1GB DDR5 Memory, in a Windows 10 environment and with the OS running from an Gen4 SSD. Here were my results:

I appreciate that these are much lower AND are using synthetic tests, but even in a Windows 55GB transfer, I never saw higher than 6.5GB/s. This same system has regularly achieved 10GB/s on Gen 5×4 SSDs and 7GB on Gen4 SSDs – but THOSE SSDs were using DRAM. Using this DRAMless SSD in that system was around 1-1.5GB/s less than the system that Samsung used, but despite both system relying heavily on HMB – the much more powerful rig was clearly able to allow higher speeds to be possible:

(The Official Testing by Samsung)

FULL performance testing can be found in the review video HERE:

Benchmarks like PCMark10 and 3DMark show that the 990 EVO Plus performs well in real-world scenarios, particularly in applications where random performance is crucial. In gaming benchmarks, the 990 EVO Plus performed comparably to some of the best Gen 5 SSDs, particularly in load times and 3D rendering tasks. For content creators, the drive’s ability to handle 8K video editing and high-resolution graphics workloads is a testament to its strong random performance. Samsung Magician, which has long been one of the best SSD management tools on the market, continues to be a highlight with the 990 EVO Plus. The latest version, Magician 8.2, offers even more advanced features, including real-time drive health monitoring, firmware updates, and performance optimization tools. It also supports partition management and RAID configurations, making it a versatile tool for professionals and casual users alike. Just keep in mind that you are definitely going to need a powerful, POWERFUL rig if you hope to hit the reported 7GB/s+ performance that Smasung maintain this 4×4/5×2 DRAMLESS SSD can hit.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus Gen 5 SSD Review – Verdict

The Samsung 990 EVO Plus is a well-rounded SSD that balances power efficiency, random performance, and thermal management—making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize reliability and efficiency over raw speed. Compared to the 990 EVO, it offers significant improvements in power consumption and random performance, while still maintaining the same level of durability and endurance that Samsung is known for. However, for users who demand the absolute best in terms of sequential speeds or IOPS for gaming and data-heavy workloads, the 990 EVO Plus may not be the fastest option available. The lack of DRAM and the reliance on HMB technology might not appeal to those looking for top-tier performance, but for everyday users and professionals working with large files, this drive provides a reliable, long-lasting solution. The Samsung 990 EVO Plus shines as an efficient, reliable SSD for users who need dependable storage without the high power draw or heat output of some other Gen 5 SSDs. It may not be the fastest drive on the market, but its balance of power efficiency, random performance, and thermal management makes it a compelling option for a wide range of users. HOWEVER, be aware that this is a drive that is built for efficiency and if used in a mid-range system, will not hit the same performance numbers that a DRAM equipped SSD would be able to achieve. It’s another example of Samsung pursuing a different SSD marketing and production strategy than Seagate and WD, but it’s still too early to see if this will be ultimately successful in the battle of Speed vs Efficiency vs Price in 2024/2025!

Need More Help Choosing the Right Storage Solution?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
[contact-form-7]
Join Inner Circle

Get an alert every time something gets added to this specific article!

NOTIFY ME

Want to follow specific category? Also Read...Minisforum MGA1 Docking StatioN305 6-Bay 10GbE NAS MotherboaCWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS vPro Flashstor Gen 2 NAS ReviewHexOS NAS Software - Review ofN305 6-Bay 10GbE NAS MotherboaFlashstor Gen 2 Review - The PWeek 47 Tech Roundup: 321-LayeWeek 46 Tech Roundup: Record-BTopton N100 10GbE NAS Motherbo Subscribe

You can also follow specific search terms:

This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

 

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

    

 

Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

It would be fair to say that of all the brands that exist in the SSD consumer and commercial market, few have the recognition and long-running reputation that Samsung has. A mainstay in consumer day-to-day devices, they have also been long-running pioneers in the world of solid-state storage for years now (first truly cutting their teeth in consumer M.2 NVMe SSD storage with the hugely popular Samsung 960). In the previously established PCIe Gen 4 generation of M.2 NVMe SSDs, Samsung (along with WD) in late 2020 were the very first brands to introduce 7GB/s (7000MB/s) performing drives to the market, massively overshadowing competitors such as Seagate and ultimately giving them a huge advantage, one that has been enjoyed for almost 3-4 years. Fast forward to now and the Gen 5 tier of M.2 NVMe SSDs has established itself, and despite hugely confident releases from Phison-equipped drives with Seagate, Sabrent, TeamGroup, and more that have been promising 10, 12, and 14GB/s, Samsung has been oddly silent on the consumer Gen 5 tier… Until now! The release of the Samsung 990 EVO marks the brand’s first release into an almost guaranteed large range of Gen 5 solutions in 2024/2025, but with a rather niche approach to its hardware design choices, a shift of focus on its ideal deployment, and performance numbers that seem comparatively lower to many drives on the market – is the Samsung EVO 990 SSD a rather bizarre first Gen 5 entry by the brand? Let’s review the Samsung 990 EVO SSD, discuss what makes it different from the usual crowd, benchmark it, and ultimately decide if it deserves your money and your data!

Samsung 990 EVO Gen 5 SSD Review – Quick Conclusion

The Samsung 990 EVO is a unique drive, ideal for systems with limited PCIe allocation and concerns about heat and power usage. While Samsung’s strategy aims to meet future trends, there are questions about PCIe Gen 5 bandwidth utilization and performance sustainability in modern PC architecture. The 990 EVO, being Samsung’s first DRAMless consumer Gen 5 SSD, offers a decent balance of performance and efficiency in compact systems, but its position in the market might be overshadowed by competitors’ higher-spec Gen 5×4 drives. It’s an acceptable choice for those seeking an OS drive or a base SSD for micro/compact systems, offering good durability and power efficiency. However, gamers and power users might find it lacking compared to more robust options available. The Samsung 990 EVO stands out in its niche but faces stiff competition in the broader SSD market.

BUILD QUALITY - 9/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 6/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 6/10

7.2

PROS

Low Power Use
Low Heat Generation
Ideal for Small Deployment
Useful for Surgival/Careful PCIe Allocation
Superior Bandwidth Use in x2 Situations
Smasung Magician Still 10/10
Gen 5x4 SSDs Still Suffer Sustained Perf Issues
Ideally suited for OS/OEM Level Drives
Standard Durability, despite DRAMless design

CONS

Better DRAMless Gen5 Controllers out there (Phison E31T)
Lower traditional Performance/IOPS than most Gen 4/5 Comparable $ Drives
Feels like a Steamdeck drive...but not!
No 4TB Option

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now? These Offers are Checked Daily

Samsung 990 EVO Gen 5 SSD Review – Retail Packaging

The Samsung 990 EVO arrives in fairly standard packaging from the brand and is arguably fairly understated and regular stuff. The drive arrives without any kind of heatsink (more on that later), but comes with the M.2 NVMe SSD in a plastic shell, alongside brief information on installation, the Samsung Magician software, and details on the 5-year inclusive warranty. The retail box itself is adorned with all the usual tech spec information and, although it’s all a bit ‘meh’, at the very least still carries that Samsung charm.

The drive arrives with a base panel heatshield that arrives pre-applied on the base panel of the SSD (on the bare PCB side), and it is located under the storage NAND. It’s a little odd that this isn’t located on the top, but I am sure Samsung has done enough R&D to know this makes more sense.

The top of the drive has a simple adhesive label with all the relevant drive information, but this is not any kind of metallic heatshield.

Peeling this back reveals an unusual arrangement of components on the PCB (on both the 1TB and 2TB version), at least compared with the bulk of both Gen4 and Gen5 SSDs in the market. Let’s discuss the hardware that the Samsung 990 EVO runs on.

Samsung 990 EVO Gen 5 SSD Review – Hardware Design

As mentioned above, the Samsung 990 EVO is a different kind of drive in the market. But this is especially unusual when you see that Samsung is attempting to straddle both the Gen4 and Gen5 market with this drive. Advertised as a Gen 5 M.2 NVMe, its architecture and the bandwidth afforded to it are very unconventional (at least by 2023/2024 Gen5 standards, but this could change in the near future – something Samsung is likely banking on with this drive).

The 1TB and 2TB versions of the Samsung 990 EVO are largely the same (barring the capacity, of course) and are built using all ‘in-house’ proprietary components – much like most other Samsung SSDs. Much like one of their biggest SSD rivals, Western Digital, Samsung likes to keep the development and onboard parts limited to 1st party design (or at the very least using subsidiaries). This can often mean that Samsung runs its own race when it comes to rolling out consumer and commercial storage drives – as they cannot overly rely on the likes of Phison for an SSD controller, MICRON for storage NAND, or SK Hynix for DRAM. The Samsung 990 EVO continues this trend, arriving with the following specs:

Category	Specification
Model	Samsung SSD 990 EVO
Usage Application	Client PCs
Interface	PCIe® 4.0 x4 / 5.0 x2 NVMe 2.0
Capacity	1TB, 2TB
Controller	Samsung in-house Controller
NAND Flash Memory	Samsung V-NAND TLC
Cache Memory	HMB (Host Memory Buffer)
Dimension	Max 80.15 x Max 22.15 x Max 2.38 (mm)
Form Factor	M.2 (2280)
Sequential Read	Up to 5,000MB/s
Sequential Write	Up to 4,200MB/s
Random Read	QD1: 20KIOPS, QD32: 680KIOPS (1TB), 700KIOPS (2TB)
Random Write	QD1: 90KIOPS, QD32: 800KIOPS
Power Consumption	Active: Read 4.9W (1TB), 6.1W (2TB); Write 4.5W (1TB), 5.5W (2TB)
Idle Power	PS3 (APST on) 60mW, PS4 (L1.2) 5mW
Operating Temp.	0°C to 70°C (Proper airflow recommended)
Non-Operating Temp.	-40°C to 85°C
Humidity	5% to 95% non-condensing
Shock Resistance	Non-Operating: 1,500G (Gravity), duration: 0.5ms, 3 axis
Vibration Resistance	Non-Operating: 20~2,000Hz, 20G
MTBF	1.5 million hours
Warranty	5 years limited, TBW: 600TB (1TB), 1,200TB (2TB)
Supporting Features	TRIM, Garbage Collection, S.M.A.R.T
Data Security	AES 256-bit Full Disk Encryption, TCG/Opal V2.0, Encrypted Drive (IEEE1667)

The controller and its management of the bandwidth with other components is actually quite a unique one in the current Gen 5 market, as it is able to negotiate between Gen 5×2 bandwidth and Gen 4×4 bandwidth. Although auto-negotiation is something that has always existed in SSDs (thanks to PCIe architecture scaled down into PCIe Gen 5>4>3>2, etc.). However, this is something a little different and something that has been developed in order to respond to rising needs in more streamlined systems, PCIe cards, and developing SoC CPUs that have fewer lanes afforded to them (as well as lower power consumption thresholds and temperature limits).

Normally, if you were to put a Gen 5 SSD into a Gen 4 system, the SSD would downgrade to PCIe Gen 4×4, which is exactly what this drive does. But what about the reverse? With newer compact systems arriving with 5×2 bandwidth allocated to storage (as these mini newer Intel Core SoC PC systems, portable ultrathin laptops, and even RAID storage cards with multiple NVMe have begun to do), a PCIe Gen 4×4 SSD that is installed inside would be downgraded to PCIe Gen 4×2. Whereas a Gen 5×4 SSD would be able to use the full Gen 5×2 bandwidth. Ultimately, Samsung is clearly hoping to provide a single affordable drive in their EVO (i.e., affordable/value) series that is able to facilitate both the Gen 4 and Gen 5 compact systems, or those with more careful or curated PCIe lane allocation.

However, realistically, more current PC builders, gamers, and storage enthusiasts are going to question the widespread allocation of Gen 5×2 at the manufacturer level. There is certainly an argument to be made that 2023/2024 released mini PCs (i.e., Intel NUCs and their budget clones), NAS server systems, M.2 storage upgrade cards, and even pre-attached SoC motherboards (see Topton, Erying, and similar) are going to lead to more appearances of x1 and x2 speed M.2 slots.

However, there are very few Gen 5 examples in the market right now compared with Gen 4 and in those systems, the 5×2/4×4 Samsung 990 EVO will be of little benefit in bandwidth over other SSDs in the market. However, the PCIe bandwidth allocation and speed is not the only area in which Samsung has clearly decided is an area ripe for efficient redesign in storage.

The Samsung 990 EVO is also a DRAMless SSD. This means it is a drive that does not arrive with any onboard memory, instead relying on a client memory use system known as HMB – Host Memory Buffer. HMB means that the SSD will need to reserve a small area of RAM on the client machine it is installed inside. So, is this a good thing or a bad thing? DRAMless SSDs, which operate without a dedicated DRAM cache, offer several benefits. DRAMless SSDs, operating without a dedicated DRAM cache, present a unique set of benefits. Their primary advantage lies in cost-effectiveness, as the absence of DRAM chips leads to lower manufacturing costs, making these drives more affordable for consumers seeking SSD speeds on a budget. They are also more energy-efficient than their DRAM-equipped counterparts, consuming less power, which is especially beneficial in battery-powered devices like laptops and mobile phones, thereby extending battery life. The design of DRAMless SSDs is another plus; the elimination of DRAM chips allows for a more compact and streamlined form, ideal for space-constrained devices like ultra-thin laptops. These SSDs tend to be simpler and potentially more reliable due to fewer components, reducing the complexity of the drive’s architecture and possibly leading to fewer points of failure. Additionally, the lack of a DRAM cache can enhance data security, as there’s less risk of data being recovered from temporary storage after power loss. DRAMless SSDs are particularly suitable for read-intensive applications and basic tasks, where high write performance is not a priority.

However, DRAMless SSDs also have notable drawbacks, especially when compared to DRAM-equipped SSDs. The most significant downside is reduced performance, particularly in write speeds and handling large or intensive workloads, due to the reliance on slower NAND flash memory without a DRAM buffer. This limitation affects multitasking capabilities, as they lack a high-speed buffer for quick data access and organization. Some DRAMless SSDs compensate for the absence of onboard DRAM by using a portion of the system’s RAM (Host Memory Buffer), which can affect overall system performance, especially in systems with limited RAM. These SSDs may also have lower endurance due to continuous direct-to-NAND write operations, leading to faster wear of memory cells. Users might experience slower random access speeds and noticeable performance degradation over time as the SSD fills up and managing the mapping table becomes more complex. Consequently, DRAMless SSDs are not ideal for heavy workloads like video editing or gaming, where high-performance storage is crucial, making them a less suitable choice for users with demanding data needs.

While DRAMless SSDs offer benefits in terms of cost and power consumption, they are generally less suited for high-performance or heavy workload applications, making them more appropriate for budget-conscious consumers with moderate storage needs. Needless to say, Samsung has been quite clear about the performance and ideal deployment of the 990 EVO, with power efficiency and temperature management being crucial considerations. Therefore, HMB and a DRAMless design make a modicum of sense here – it just also means that Samsung’s first consumer Gen 5 SSD looks rather underwhelming in terms of traditional performance in comparison to existing Gen 4 and Gen 5 SSDs in the market right now.

The storage NAND on the drive is another comparatively low bar compared with existing fully featured Gen 5 and Gen 4 SSDs in the market (including Samsung’s own 980 Pro and 990 Pro). The Samsung 990 EVO is a drive that has been targeted to replace/refresh the 970 EVO and in THAT regard, it is a substantial upgrade! With high bandwidth allocation, higher degrees of saturation of it in traditional throughput, higher 4K random IOPS, and just generally better thermal/power management when in operation, the 990 EVO is a confident upgrade over the 970 EVO indeed. However, there is still the question of buying the 990 EVO as a storage drive for your Gen 4 system (or even Gen 5 premium rig) when even Samsung’s 2020 released 980 Pro drive dominates the 2024 released 990 EVO in pretty much all areas and is even a similar/lower price in a lot of retailers.

Samsung 990 EVO SSD	Samsung 990 Pro SSD

The storage NAND is of a lower layer count but is still Samsung’s in-house 3D TLC V-NAND. This, the lack of onboard DRAM, and (in certain deployments) the x2 speed all add up to a drive that doesn’t stand especially tall against its competitors at a glance. Nevertheless, there is also the argument that the Samsung 990 EVO is going to be the best SSD that you never realize that you already own in years to come! Its design is ripe for deployment as the OS drive at the OEM/factory level in the same way as the widespread use of the 970 EVO was for Windows machines and laptops the world over! Indeed, in a different context, the specifications for the Samsung 990 EVO would make it a GREAT upgrade for a Steam Deck or one of its many clones in the last 12-18 months. If the Samsung 990 EVO was a 2230 or 2240 sized SSD, this review would be very different – as the market is crying out for high performing, yet power-efficient small form factor M.2 SSDs – however, the Samsung 990 EVO’s 2280 length eliminates this use sadly.

Additionally, the fact the SSD arrives at 1TB and 2TB, but not a 4TB, is going to disappoint users who are looking at this drive in terms of efficiency but also know that our daily data creation rates are bigger than ever! However, we cannot really use this as a stick to beat the 990 EVO with, as this could be part of a staged rollout and a 4TB version coming down the line (Samsung already provides numerous 4TB NVMe SSD examples in other ranges). All the mixed points so far aside, I have to hand it to Samsung for releasing this DRAMless SSD that supports Gen 4 and Gen 5 deployment – yet still maintains a standard 600/1200 TBW (so over 0.3 DWPD). Jargon aside, that means that this power and heat-efficient SSD can withstand up to over 300/600GB of daily write/rewrite on the 1/2TB respectively. Outside of SSD cache utilization in servers and as a daily backup drive without differentials, this SSD is going to last a LONG TIME and hopefully way, way beyond the 5yrs manufacturer’s hardware warranty (standard across the industry). There are still points to be made that the lower performance bears closer examination on these number’s virtues, but nonetheless, this still all adds up to good durability for a drive that is going to be used in compact deployments where heat generation is a real concern!

The hardware, in the right context, is all great. But inevitably, we are going to need to look at how this all adds up to performance. Let’s put the SSD through some benchmarks with popular test software, as well as discuss the Samsung Magician client software and how it allows you to use your 990 EVO beyond just traditional target storage.

Using CrystalDisk, we got a good measure of the drive and verified that this PCIe Gen 5×2 / 4×4 SSD was indeed using the 5×2 lane. Additionally, the temp averaged out around 55C between each test being conducted and the highest temp registered for 68 degrees.

Samsung 990 EVO Gen 5 SSD Review – Performance and Software

It is REALLY important that we look at the performance of the Samsung 990 EVO SSD in the right frame of mind! We have reviewed A LOT of Gen 4 and Gen 5 SSDs here on NASCompares in the last few years, and we have to at least acknowledge that in terms of traditional throughput and responsive IOPS, the Samsung 990 EVO is going to come across lower in most cases. However, in the context of a DRAMLESS SSD and one that is designed towards more flexible deployment, we have more flexible thresholds in mind. Equally, Samsung has been very clear on the reported performance of the 990 EVO in their marketing, stating maximum performance numbers of 5000MB/s Seq Read and 4200MB/s Seq Write, as well as Read and Write 4K Random IOPS numbers of 800,000 and 700,000 respectively. These are good, healthy numbers and if sustained, would make this drive very attractive to those streamlined deployments. So, to the testing.

For the sake of fairness, let’s compare the results of the Samsung 990 EVO in some of its tests against the other DRAMless Gen 4 SSD we mentioned earlier in the review, the late 2022 released WD Black SN770, as then we have a much fairer means to frame the performance results:

Samsung 990 EVO SSD	WD Black SN770 SSD

Although the numbers are comparable and there are gains/drops on either side, the winner is largely going to come down to your perspective of priorities. If traditional throughput of chunking MB/s and GB/s is your focus, the SN770 has the upper hand. But for IOPS, larger-scale databases of volume, and deployments made up of high-frequency data, the Samsung 990 EVO holds its ground the firmest. Let’s conclude this review.

Samsung 990 EVO Gen 5 SSD Review – Verdict

All this adds up to a drive that, in a very specific context of use in a powerful, yet curated/limited PCIe allocated system (with concerns of heat and power use), is ready to be a hero! Samsung is clearly banking on this being an established future trend, and you cannot really blame them. Alongside numerous examples of strategic PCIe allocation in modern consumer hardware throughout 2023 and planned for 2024, there are also still question marks about just what percentage of PCIe Gen 5 bandwidth can actually be saturated long term on modern PC architecture before the inevitable overfilling of cache and performance numbers plummeting. We have seen numerous examples using synthetic testing that has shown the first and second phase of Gen 5 releases reach anywhere from 20-60 seconds of sustained transfer before bottling down! This raises the idea of a drive that does have the ability to hit those highs, because it doesn’t need to, and instead can provide a sustained performance number that on balance works out better (not just in those more compact deployments too).

However, I think the first drive from Samsung into consumer Gen 5 SSDs being DRAMless is a little odd and would have been best served as a derivation/2nd wave of Gen 5 Samsung SSDs that allow choice – much like how WD released the WD Black SN850, then followed it up with the WD Black SN770 DRAMless Gen 4 alternative and the WD Black SN850X premium upgrade. Starting with the DRAMless 990 EVO and rolling out at the same time as their competitors are providing comparatively priced Gen 5×4 alternatives with higher transfers and IOPS ratings might be something of a marketing misstep. Only time will tell, and, as ever, storage trends are first and foremost going to follow client hardware trends (the PS5 exploded the Gen 4 generation in a way that PC Gaming hadn’t yet), and more affordable Power use SoC/Mobile Embedded versions of Intel/AMD chips led to massive uptake in Gen 4 higher cap drives. The Samsung 990 EVO is an SSD with acceptable performance, IOPS numbers, durability, and power use when it’s looked at in its own context/light, but draws weak comparisons with bigger and bolder drives in the market. Gamers and serious power users will want to look elsewhere, but if you are looking for an OS drive or base SSD for your next micro/compact system, you are going to find a reliable and long-term drive choice here.

Need More Help Choosing the Right Storage Solution?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
[contact-form-7]
Join Inner Circle

Get an alert every time something gets added to this specific article!

NOTIFY ME

Want to follow specific category? Also Read...Minisforum MGA1 Docking StatioN305 6-Bay 10GbE NAS MotherboaCWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS vPro Flashstor Gen 2 NAS ReviewHexOS NAS Software - Review ofN305 6-Bay 10GbE NAS MotherboaFlashstor Gen 2 Review - The PWeek 47 Tech Roundup: 321-LayeWeek 46 Tech Roundup: Record-BTopton N100 10GbE NAS Motherbo Subscribe

You can also follow specific search terms:

This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

 

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

    

 

Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

The Phison E31T is the world’s first PCIe Gen5 mainstream and notebook-optimized SSD controller, designed for cost-conscious users who want cutting-edge performance without breaking the bank. This DRAM-less solution delivers best-in-class low queue depth random performance, making it ideal for everyday use, especially in notebooks and consumer PCs. It achieves over 7GB/s in notebooks designed to run PCIe Gen5x2 and offers up to 34% lower power consumption at Gen4 performance levels (7GB/s). Built using TSMC’s advanced 6nm process, the E31T can operate without a heatsink for general workloads, though a heatsink is recommended for extended heavy-duty tasks, such as those typical of workstations. For users upgrading existing systems or building new PCs, the E31T offers a highly attractive combination of cost efficiency, power savings, and strong performance.

In terms of how it stacks up against Phison’s high-end E26 controller, the E31T targets a different market segment. The E26, which supports DRAM, is currently the fastest SSD controller for high-end desktops and workstations, delivering superior performance, particularly in tasks involving sustained high workloads and higher queue depths. The presence of DRAM in the E26 allows it to manage larger datasets more efficiently, resulting in higher overall performance, especially in scenarios like large-scale file transfers or gaming. While the E31T pushes cost-conscious PCIe Gen5 performance to new heights, the E26 continues to dominate the high-end market, with higher sequential read/write speeds and overall better sustained performance. However, the E31T still offers a compelling option for users looking to balance high performance with lower costs, particularly in notebook and consumer use cases, where power efficiency and DRAM-less design provide key advantages.

Today, I wanted to put the Phison E31T SSD Controller through its paces, as there are definitely mixed feelings in the market about DRAM-less SSDs. On the one hand, true Gen5x4 performance is hard to sustain, and most users are not going to make the most of this. So, leveraging host memory buffer (HMB) and making the drives more affordable, but still at a decent performance level, is going to be desirable. However, DRAM-less SSDs get hot, they can bottleneck in peak periods, and they suffer in the write numbers. This makes them great for an OS but questionable for a live 24×7 growing database. Let’s dig into the E31T and see what makes it tick!

Important Disclaimer

This review unit was supplied by Phison.

IMPORTANT: This SSD is a build of what vendors will be providing in conjunction with the Phison E31T DRAM-less Gen5 SSD Controller. In other words, you will soon find this SSD trading under brands such as Seagate, TeamGroup, Patriot, ADATA, Addlink, etc. A DRAM/Memory-equipped alternative can be found in the already widely available Phison E26 Controller-equipped SSDs in the market.

The Phison E31T Gen5 SSD Review – Quick Conclusion

Phison is not overpromising with the E31T. If full bells and whistles performance is what you’re looking for in a Gen5 SSD, you are not going to find it here. This is an SSD designed to give you high performance, but not at the risk of inefficient power consumption or overspending. The E31T controller presents a very power-efficient SSD controller package, and with Gen5 SSDs finally becoming something usable in modern Intel and AMD architectures, there is definitely a place for a drive like this in more modest OS deployments.

We also have to give them credit that they have managed to maintain greater-than-Gen4 speeds in this DRAM-less SSD while also maintaining a fairly industry-standard 0.38 DWPD rating. As early as 2023, brands like Patriot and TeamGroup already previewed their plans for the Phison E31T controller in their portfolios, so it’s good to finally see the creator put their money where their mouth is and show what it can do.

The priority here is read speed, and those with big ambitious plans for high-write activities in larger databases or editing may find this drive a little too limiting—even with host memory buffer support in your OS. But for domestic deployment, OS drives, and typical low-power consuming systems, this development will be highly beneficial. It will be interesting to see how the likes of Innogrit and Silicon Motion compete with this.

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.8

PROS

ffers competitive Gen5 performance at an affordable price point.
DRAM-less design significantly reduces power consumption.
Supports PCIe Gen5x4, delivering read speeds over 10,000 MB/s.
Ideal for notebook and consumer PCs due to its power efficiency and compact design.
Capable of maintaining greater-than-Gen4 speeds, even without DRAM.
Lower heat generation allows for operation without a heatsink under normal workloads.
Industry-standard durability with a 0.38 DWPD rating, making it suitable for everyday use.

CONS

Performance may bottleneck during sustained heavy write operations or peak workloads.
DRAM-less architecture limits its capability in high-end tasks like large-scale database management and video editing.
May require additional cooling solutions, such as heatsinks, for extended heavy workloads.

Where to Buy a Product
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤
			VISIT RETAILER ➤

DEAL WATCH – Is It On Offer Right Now? These Offers are Checked Daily

The Phison E31T Gen5 SSD Review – Design

The Phison E31T SSD provided for this review was a 2280-length 2TB model.

Like most DRAM-less drives, there is a lot of empty real estate on this PCB—but that is kind of the point. This SSD is largely designed around having a central controller, efficient NAND, and not much else (besides the minor power transistors).

The Phison E31T controller was first previewed back in early 2023, when the first wave of Gen5 E26 controller SSDs arrived in the market. Make no mistake, the E31T is not designed to compete with Phison’s premier Gen5 SSD controller (E26), but instead hopes to leverage the bandwidth of improving mobile processors from Intel and AMD that will arrive in both Gen4 and Gen5 architectures in 2024/2025.

Arriving with Gen5x4 speed, NVMe 2.0 architecture, and M.2 2280 interface, this SSD is going to fit in most modern PCs and the majority of modern laptops. Additionally, DRAM-less SSDs also allow for considerably more compact deployments where power consumption, heat generation, and physical space are significant hurdles. For example, 2242-length SSDs for the next generation of Steam Decks and portable gaming systems, as well as modern powerhouse ultrabooks and tablet devices that require small, lean, and impactful storage, will benefit from the development of the E31T.

The sample unit I reviewed arrived with two 3D TLC 218L 3600MT/s BiCS8 NAND blocks on a single-sided PCB. Durability is rated at 600/1200 TBW, equating to a respectable 0.38 DWPD workload over a 5-year warranty that will no doubt be included with the majority of branded SSDs using this controller.

That’s really it. The build of the drive is pretty understated, and as soon as SSD vendors start applying their proprietary presentation—likely including heat shields to fight temperature increases—there may be variations. If this drive is deployed in a simple operating system capacity with a 90/10 read-write ratio, a heat shield may not be necessary, but we observed temperature increases during our testing.

The Phison E31T Gen5 SSD Review – Performance

Performance on this Phison E31T-equipped SSD must be considered relative to its DRAM-less architecture. As mentioned earlier, it is never going to challenge the likes of the E26 controller, but it is not trying to. I tested the Phison E31T SSD Sample initially in CrystalDiskMark and Atto Disk Benchmark. This was at 1GB/4GB/16GB and 256MB/1GB/4GB respectively – all tests are featured in the YouTube video, but below are the clearest results:

The drive was promoted with a 10GB/s over 8.6GB/s performance rating by Phison – and it COMFORTABLY hit these numbers in the majority of my tests (and this wasn’t on a high end AMD Ryzen system, but actually a comparatively domestic Intel 12th Gen i5 system with 16GB memory). When it came to 4K Random IOPS, the drive easily hit between 1.37M and 1.4M in READ, however I was not able to drive the drive higher than 600K in WRITE 4K IOPS. There was likely many reasons for this (my arguably more domestic CPU and Gen3 internal OS SSD likely playing a big part – but Phison state that the drive can hit 1.5Milliion write IOPS. I then went into the temperature history and found that the SSD hit just a maximum 68 degrees tempt during the highest point of the write testing.

On the face of , these are good numbers in terms of SSD temps and decent distance away from any throttling potential. However, this was when nthe SSD was held under an active m.2 cooling system AND mounted separately on a PCIe expander card, AND in an our air setup (i.e no closed case). Therefore, as good as this temp number was, it was actually a little higher than I would have liked to have seen, given the massive amount of passive and active cooling potential here.

I then wanted to get some idea of the ‘heavy weight’ that the HMB was doing in conjunction with the Gen5 SSD. So I went ahead and ran UnRAID on the same PC (over USB) and checked that it still had Gen 5×4 speed and lanes (i.e no downgrade):

I then ran repeated 1GB Read and Write tests on the SSD via command line terminal, but with all caching disabled. The result was the drive hitting around 5-5.5GB/s (peaking at 6GB at some points). So, even WITHOUT system caching available, the drive was still able to hit similar performance numbers to a full Gen4 SSD with DRAM and the E16/E18 Controller – impressive.

Clearly, the face the system has a reduced write performance is largely down to that lack of onboard DRAM on the PCB, but it was still able to regularly hit 9GB/s read and 8GB/s write in my testing – so respect! Also, this drive is primarily targeting heavy read/access prioritized systems, so any dips or reductions in sustained ‘write’ are not going to be a factor in these use cases.

The Phison E31T Gen5 SSD Review – Verdict

Phison delivers on expectations with the E31T, but it’s important to note that if you’re after top-tier, all-out Gen5 SSD performance, this may not be the drive for you. The E31T is designed to offer solid performance while prioritizing power efficiency and affordability, making it a practical choice for users who don’t want to compromise on those factors. As Gen5 SSDs become more accessible in modern Intel and AMD systems, the E31T fits comfortably within more modest operating system applications. It’s commendable that Phison has managed to deliver performance beyond Gen4 speeds in this DRAM-less SSD while maintaining an industry-standard 0.38 DWPD rating. Brands like Patriot and TeamGroup had already teased their use of the E31T controller as early as 2023, and it’s satisfying to see Phison deliver on that promise with real-world performance. This SSD focuses heavily on read speeds, so users with extensive write-heavy workloads, such as large-scale databases or video editing, may find it somewhat limiting—even with the benefit of host memory buffer support. However, for everyday use in OS drives and low-power systems, the E31T is a strong contender. It will be interesting to see how competitors like Innogrit and Rainier respond to this offering.

Phison E31T SSD PROS	Phison E31T SSD CONS
Offers competitive Gen5 performance at an affordable price point. DRAM-less design significantly reduces power consumption. Supports PCIe Gen5x4, delivering read speeds over 10,000 MB/s. Ideal for notebook and consumer PCs due to its power efficiency and compact design. Capable of maintaining greater-than-Gen4 speeds, even without DRAM. Lower heat generation allows for operation without a heatsink under normal workloads. Industry-standard durability with a 0.38 DWPD rating, making it suitable for everyday use.	Performance may bottleneck during sustained heavy write operations or peak workloads. DRAM-less architecture limits its capability in high-end tasks like large-scale database management and video editing. May require additional cooling solutions, such as heatsinks, for extended heavy workloads.

If you are thinking of buying storage, please use the links below as it results in us at NASCompares receiving an affiliate fee from Amazon:

Need More Help Choosing the Right Storage Solution?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
[contact-form-7]
Join Inner Circle

Get an alert every time something gets added to this specific article!

NOTIFY ME

Want to follow specific category? Also Read...Minisforum MGA1 Docking StatioN305 6-Bay 10GbE NAS MotherboaCWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS vPro Flashstor Gen 2 NAS ReviewHexOS NAS Software - Review ofN305 6-Bay 10GbE NAS MotherboaFlashstor Gen 2 Review - The PWeek 47 Tech Roundup: 321-LayeWeek 46 Tech Roundup: Record-BTopton N100 10GbE NAS Motherbo Subscribe

You can also follow specific search terms:

This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

 

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

    

 

Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

WE LOVE COFFEE

 

When choosing an SSD for your NAS system, there are several factors to consider, especially durability, endurance, and performance. In this article, we’ll examine the Samsung 990 EVO Plus, a new addition to Samsung’s high-performance SSD lineup, and how it compares to other popular drives such as the Samsung 970 Pro, 990 Pro, WD Red SN700, Seagate FireCuda series, and Synology SNV3400.

We’ll look at the DWPD (Drive Writes Per Day) ratings and other specifications to determine if this SSD is suitable for NAS caching or more general use cases like gaming or content creation.

Overview: Samsung 990 EVO Plus Specifications

The Samsung 990 EVO Plus is a PCIe 4.0 SSD that promises blazing-fast speeds, high efficiency, and ample storage capacities up to 4TB. Here are some of the highlights:

• Sequential Read/Write Speeds: Up to 7,250 MB/s and 6,300 MB/s
• Random Read/Write IOPS: 1,050K / 1,400K
• TBW (1TB Model): 600TB
• DWPD: 0.33

This SSD is equipped with Samsung’s latest 8th-gen V-NAND technology, boasting significantly better power efficiency (73% greater than its predecessor, the 990 EVO) and enhanced performance. However, its 0.33 DWPD endurance rating could limit its use in write-heavy environments like NAS caching.

Understanding DWPD and Why It Matters for NAS Caching

DWPD (Drive Writes Per Day) is a critical metric for assessing an SSD’s durability, especially in environments where high write volumes are typical, like NAS caching or enterprise workloads.

For NAS caching, drives need to endure frequent write and read cycles. A higher DWPD indicates that the drive can handle more data writes daily, which is essential for multi-user NAS systems, virtualization, or heavy database operations.

How the Samsung 990 EVO Plus Compares to Other SSDs

Here’s a breakdown of how the 990 EVO Plus stacks up against other SSDs based on DWPD, performance, and use cases:

Samsung 990 EVO Plus: Great for Gaming, Not Ideal for NAS Caching

Strengths:

• Blazing-fast performance: The 7,250 MB/s read and 6,300 MB/s write speeds of the 990 EVO Plus make it perfect for high-speed applications like gaming and content creation.
• High random IOPS: With 1,050K read IOPS and 1,400K write IOPS, it can handle a wide range of consumer workloads.
• Competitive pricing: Starting at around $110 for 1TB, it offers excellent value for gamers and content creators looking for top-tier performance.