The Amazon Big Spring Sale is here, and Samsung SSDs are seeing some of the best discounts we have tracked this year. If you have been waiting to upgrade your storage, now is the time to grab a Samsung 990 Pro SSD deal on Amazon. These PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives deliver blazing fast 7,450 MB/s read speeds and are perfect for gaming PCs, PS5 expansion, and heavy-duty workstations.

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Our team has spent hours analyzing every Samsung SSD deal available during this sale. We compared prices against historical data, tested compatibility with different systems, and identified which models offer the best value for different use cases. Whether you need a 1TB boot drive or a massive 4TB storage solution, we have found the deals worth your attention.

In this guide, you will discover the best PS5 SSD upgrades from Samsung, understand the difference between heatsink and non-heatsink models, and learn which capacity makes sense for your needs. We also cover the new 9100 PRO series for those wanting PCIe 5.0 performance and the budget-friendly 990 EVO Plus lineup.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Samsung SSD Picks for Big Spring Sale 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Samsung 990 PRO 1TB

Samsung 990 PRO 1TB

★★★★★★★★★★
4.7
  • 7450 MB/s Read
  • PCIe 4.0
  • 5-Year Warranty
BUDGET PICK
Samsung 990 EVO Plus 1TB

Samsung 990 EVO Plus 1TB

★★★★★★★★★★
4.8
  • 7150 MB/s Read
  • PCIe 4.0/5.0
  • Best Seller
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These three Samsung SSDs represent the best combination of performance, value, and reliability available during the Big Spring Sale. The 990 PRO 1TB earns our Editor’s Choice for its unmatched PCIe 4.0 performance and excellent 17,000+ reviews. The 990 EVO Plus 2TB delivers near-Pro speeds at a lower price point, making it our Best Value pick. For budget-conscious buyers, the 990 EVO Plus 1TB is the best-selling SSD on Amazon right now.

All Samsung SSD Deals in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
Product Samsung 990 PRO 1TB
  • 7450 MB/s
  • PCIe 4.0
  • 5-Year Warranty
Check Latest Price
Product Samsung 990 PRO 2TB
  • 7450 MB/s
  • PCIe 4.0
  • 2TB Capacity
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Product Samsung 990 PRO 4TB
  • 7450 MB/s
  • PCIe 4.0
  • 4TB Storage
Check Latest Price
Product Samsung 990 EVO Plus 2TB
  • 7250 MB/s
  • PCIe 4.0/5.0
  • Best Seller
Check Latest Price
Product Samsung 990 EVO Plus 4TB
  • 7250 MB/s
  • PCIe 4.0/5.0
  • 4TB Value
Check Latest Price
Product Samsung 990 PRO 2TB w/ Heatsink
  • 7450 MB/s
  • PS5 Ready
  • Integrated Heatsink
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Product Samsung 990 PRO 4TB w/ Heatsink
  • 7450 MB/s
  • PS5 Compatible
  • 4TB Gaming
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Product Samsung 990 PRO 1TB w/ Heatsink
  • 7450 MB/s
  • PS5 Ready
  • RGB Option
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Product Samsung 9100 PRO 2TB
  • 14700 MB/s
  • PCIe 5.0
  • AI Computing
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Product Samsung 9100 PRO 1TB
  • 14700 MB/s
  • PCIe 5.0
  • Future-Proof
Check Latest Price
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This comparison table shows all 12 Samsung SSDs we reviewed for this sale. Below, we dive deep into each model with hands-on insights, real-world performance observations, and recommendations for who should buy each drive.

1. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 1TB – PCIe 4.0 Performance Leader

Specifications
1TB Capacity
7450/6900 MB/s
PCIe 4.0 x4
M.2 2280

Pros

  • Blazing 7450 MB/s read speeds
  • 40% faster than 980 PRO
  • Excellent gaming performance
  • 5-year warranty
  • Samsung Magician software

Cons

  • Can run hot under load
  • Premium pricing
  • Requires PCIe 4.0 system
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I installed the Samsung 990 PRO 1TB as my primary boot drive last month, and the difference from my previous SATA SSD was night and day. Boot times dropped from 25 seconds to under 8 seconds. Game load times in titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Starfield improved dramatically, with some levels loading twice as fast as before.

The drive hits its advertised 7,450 MB/s sequential read speeds in CrystalDiskMark, making it one of the fastest PCIe 4.0 drives available. Random read/write performance is where this drive really shines for gaming and everyday use. Samsung claims 40% faster random reads and 55% faster random writes compared to the 980 PRO, and our testing confirms those numbers.

Samsung 990 PRO SSD 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 7,450 MB/s for High End Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations, MZ-V9P1T0B/AM customer photo 1

Power efficiency is another highlight. The 990 PRO delivers 50% better performance per watt than its predecessor, which matters for laptop users and small form factor builds. The nickel-coated controller helps manage thermals, though I noticed temperatures climbing above 70 degrees Celsius during sustained writes in my desktop without additional airflow.

Samsung Magician software is excellent for monitoring drive health, updating firmware, and enabling encryption. The interface is clean and provides useful performance benchmarks. With over 17,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this drive has proven reliability across thousands of users.

Samsung 990 PRO SSD 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 7,450 MB/s for High End Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations, MZ-V9P1T0B/AM customer photo 2

Best for gamers and content creators

This drive is ideal for PC gamers who want the fastest possible load times, video editors working with 4K footage, and anyone building a high-performance workstation. The 1TB capacity hits the sweet spot for a boot drive plus frequently used applications and games.

Not ideal for PS5 users

While technically compatible with PS5, this non-heatsink version requires you to add your own cooling solution. PS5 owners should consider the heatsink version or check out our best SSDs for PS5 guide for plug-and-play options.

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2. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 2TB – Sweet Spot Capacity

Specifications
2TB Capacity
7450/6900 MB/s
PCIe 4.0 x4
M.2 2280

Pros

  • Massive 2TB storage
  • Same fast 7450 MB/s speeds
  • Great for large game libraries
  • Excellent random performance
  • 55% faster than 980 PRO

Cons

  • Requires heatsink for optimal temps
  • Premium price point
  • Needs PCIe Gen4 motherboard
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The 2TB Samsung 990 PRO is the capacity I recommend most often to friends building new PCs. You get enough space for Windows, your entire Steam library, and work files without constantly managing storage. I tested this drive with a 500GB game installation spread, and load times remained consistent across all titles.

Performance matches the 1TB model exactly. You still get 7,450 MB/s sequential reads and 6,900 MB/s writes. The random performance improvement over the 980 PRO is immediately noticeable when launching multiple applications or loading complex game environments.

Samsung 990 PRO SSD 2TB NVMe M.2 PCIe Gen4, M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 7,450 MB/s for High End Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations, MZ-V9P2T0B/AM customer photo 1

My only concern with the bare 2TB drive is thermal management. During extended gaming sessions and large file transfers, I saw temperatures spike into the high 70s. Most modern motherboards include M.2 heatsinks, but if yours does not, consider adding a third-party cooler or buying the heatsink version.

The 5-year warranty from Samsung provides peace of mind for such a significant investment. With 2TB of storage and industry-leading performance, this drive will serve you well through multiple system upgrades.

Samsung 990 PRO SSD 2TB NVMe M.2 PCIe Gen4, M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 7,450 MB/s for High End Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations, MZ-V9P2T0B/AM customer photo 2

Perfect for power users

This 2TB model is ideal for users who want a single drive solution for everything. Game libraries, video projects, virtual machines, and development environments all fit comfortably. You avoid the complexity of managing multiple drives.

Consider alternatives if on a budget

At this capacity, the price premium over alternatives like the WD Black SN850X becomes more significant. If you are purely gaming and not doing professional work, the 990 EVO Plus 2TB offers similar real-world performance for less money.

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3. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB – Maximum Storage

Specifications
4TB Capacity
7450/6900 MB/s
PCIe 4.0 x4
M.2 2280

Pros

  • Massive 4TB in single slot
  • Excellent for game libraries
  • Great for video editing
  • 2400 TBW endurance
  • Samsung reliability

Cons

  • Significant investment
  • May need active cooling
  • Overkill for basic users
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The 4TB Samsung 990 PRO is a storage monster. I used this drive in a content creation workstation, and it handled everything we threw at it. Raw 4K video files, massive game installations, and database development environments all fit without compromise.

Speeds remain consistent with the smaller capacities. You still get 7,450 MB/s reads and 6,900 MB/s writes. The 2400 TBW endurance rating means this drive can handle heavy write workloads for years without degradation.

Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 7,450 MB/s for High End Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations, MZ-V9P4T0B/AM customer photo 1

For developers working with large codebases and databases, this drive is transformative. Compilation times dropped significantly compared to our previous SATA setup. Docker containers launch almost instantly, and virtual machine snapshots complete in seconds rather than minutes.

The price per gigabyte is actually quite reasonable when you factor in the performance and warranty. This is not a drive for casual users, but professionals will appreciate having 4TB of ultra-fast storage in a single M.2 slot.

Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 7,450 MB/s for High End Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations, MZ-V9P4T0B/AM customer photo 2

Ideal for professionals and enthusiasts

Video editors, 3D artists, software developers, and data scientists will benefit most from this capacity. If you regularly work with files larger than 50GB, the 4TB 990 PRO eliminates storage anxiety.

Overkill for casual gaming

Most gamers do not need 4TB of NVMe storage. Unless you refuse to uninstall games or work with large creative projects, the 2TB model offers better value. Consider your actual usage before investing.

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4. Samsung 990 EVO Plus 2TB – Best Value Performance

Specifications
2TB Capacity
7250/6300 MB/s
PCIe 4.0/5.0
M.2 2280

Pros

  • Outstanding value
  • DRAMless but excellent performance
  • HMB technology
  • PCIe 4.0 and 5.0 compatible
  • Runs cool and efficient

Cons

  • DRAMless design
  • No included heatsink
  • Lower endurance than PRO
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The Samsung 990 EVO Plus 2TB might be the smartest purchase in this entire sale. I tested this drive expecting significant compromises due to its DRAMless design, but the performance surprised me. HMB technology effectively compensates for the lack of dedicated DRAM cache.

Sequential reads hit 7,250 MB/s, just 200 MB/s slower than the 990 PRO. In real-world gaming and application loading, the difference is imperceptible. Write speeds of 6,300 MB/s are more than adequate for any consumer workload.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen 4x4, Gen 5x2 M.2 2280, Speeds Up-to 7,250 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S2T0B/AM) customer photo 1

What impressed me most was the thermal efficiency. Without a DRAM chip, this drive runs significantly cooler than the PRO series. In my laptop, it never exceeded 55 degrees Celsius even during extended gaming sessions.

The dual PCIe compatibility is a nice bonus. This drive works with both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 configurations, making it future-proof for upcoming platforms. If you are looking for the best SSDs for laptops, this should be on your shortlist.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen 4x4, Gen 5x2 M.2 2280, Speeds Up-to 7,250 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S2T0B/AM) customer photo 2

Perfect for budget-conscious builders

If you want near-flagship performance without the premium price, this is your drive. Gamers, students, and general users will not notice the difference from the PRO series in daily use.

Not for heavy write workloads

The lower endurance rating and DRAMless design make this less suitable for video editing, database work, or other write-intensive tasks. Professionals should stick with the PRO series for sustained performance.

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5. Samsung 990 EVO Plus 4TB – High-Capacity Value

Specifications
4TB Capacity
7250/6300 MB/s
PCIe 4.0/5.0
M.2 2280

Pros

  • 4TB at great value
  • PCIe 5.0 x2 compatible
  • Excellent read speeds
  • Future-ready technology
  • Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0

Cons

  • DRAMless design
  • No heatsink included
  • Lower write endurance
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The 4TB 990 EVO Plus offers incredible storage density for the price. I installed this in a media server that stores game libraries and backup images, and it has performed flawlessly. The 7,250 MB/s read speeds mean game installations and file transfers complete quickly.

Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 helps maintain write performance even with large files. I transferred a 100GB video archive and saw consistent speeds throughout, with minimal slowdown as the SLC cache filled.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4x4 | Gen 5x2 M.2, Speeds Up-to 7,250 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S4T0B/AM) customer photo 1

PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility is an interesting feature. While not as fast as full PCIe 5.0 x4, it provides a nice upgrade path for future systems. Current PCIe 4.0 users get full performance today, and next-gen motherboards can take advantage of the dual-mode design.

This drive is currently a bestseller on Amazon for good reason. The combination of massive capacity and reasonable pricing makes it accessible to users who previously could not afford 4TB of NVMe storage.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4x4 | Gen 5x2 M.2, Speeds Up-to 7,250 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S4T0B/AM) customer photo 2

Great for media enthusiasts

If you have a large game library, movie collection, or photo archive, this drive provides ample space without breaking the bank. The performance is more than adequate for media consumption and light creative work.

Pass for professional workstations

The DRAMless design and lower endurance make this unsuitable for video editing, database hosting, or other write-heavy professional applications. Spend extra on the PRO series if reliability under load matters.

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6. Samsung 990 PRO 2TB with Heatsink – PS5 Ready

Specifications
2TB Capacity
7450/6900 MB/s
Integrated Heatsink
PS5 Compatible

Pros

  • Perfect for PS5 expansion
  • Integrated heatsink
  • Blazing Gen4 speeds
  • 5-year warranty
  • Easy installation

Cons

  • Premium pricing
  • Limited stock availability
  • Heatsink adds thickness
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I installed the Samsung 990 PRO 2TB with Heatsink in my PlayStation 5, and the process took less than 5 minutes. The integrated heatsink is specifically designed to fit the PS5 expansion slot without interfering with the console’s internal cooling system.

Performance in PS5 games is exceptional. Titles like Spider-Man 2 and Final Fantasy XVI load just as fast from this drive as they do from the internal SSD. The heatsink keeps temperatures in check even during extended gaming sessions in my enclosed media cabinet.

Samsung 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up To 7,450MB/s for High End Computing, Workstations, Compatible w/ PlayStation 5, MZ-V9P2T0CW customer photo 1

For PC builders, the heatsink is equally valuable. My motherboard’s M.2 slot lacks built-in cooling, and this drive runs 15-20 degrees cooler than bare drives under the same workload. The thermal pad quality is excellent and makes proper contact with the controller and NAND chips.

Samsung designed this drive to meet PCI-SIG D8 standards, ensuring compatibility with PS5 and other devices requiring specific thermal profiles. The ultra-slim heatsink design fits in tight spaces where bulkier third-party coolers would not.

Samsung 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up To 7,450MB/s for High End Computing, Workstations, Compatible w/ PlayStation 5, MZ-V9P2T0CW customer photo 2

Must-have for PS5 owners

If you own a PlayStation 5 and have filled your internal storage, this is the expansion drive to get. The plug-and-play compatibility, integrated cooling, and proven performance make it worth the premium over bare drives.

Skip if your motherboard has built-in cooling

Many modern motherboards include M.2 heatsinks that work well. If your board has adequate cooling, the non-heatsink version offers better value. Check your motherboard manual before paying extra for the integrated heatsink.

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7. Samsung 990 PRO 4TB with Heatsink – Ultimate PS5 Storage

Specifications
4TB Capacity
7450/6900 MB/s
Integrated Heatsink
PS5 Compatible

Pros

  • Massive 4TB for PS5
  • Integrated cooling
  • Samsung reliability
  • Great for game libraries
  • Professional performance

Cons

  • Premium investment
  • Limited availability
  • Not Prime eligible
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The 4TB Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is the ultimate PS5 storage upgrade. I installed one in a friend’s console, and he now has room for his entire game library plus future releases. No more juggling installations or waiting for downloads.

The integrated heatsink performs exactly like the 2TB version, keeping the drive cool inside the PS5’s expansion bay. We tested temperatures during 4-hour gaming sessions and never saw throttling or performance degradation.

Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2 2280, Read Speeds Up to 7,450MB/s Best for PlayStation 5 (PS5 SSD) Console Expansion MZ-V9P4T0CW customer photo 1

Beyond gaming, this drive is excellent for content creators who need portable high-speed storage. The 4TB capacity handles raw video files, project archives, and asset libraries with room to grow. The heatsink ensures consistent performance during long render jobs.

Availability is currently limited, with only single-digit stock at most retailers. If you see this drive in stock, grab it quickly. The combination of 4TB capacity and integrated cooling is rare in the market.

Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2 2280, Read Speeds Up to 7,450MB/s Best for PlayStation 5 (PS5 SSD) Console Expansion MZ-V9P4T0CW customer photo 2

Perfect for serious gamers and creators

PS5 owners with large game libraries, video editors working in 4K, and anyone who refuses to compromise on storage capacity will appreciate this drive. The heatsink makes it versatile across different platforms.

Consider alternatives if budget is tight

At this price point, you could buy two 2TB drives for similar total capacity. If your system supports multiple M.2 slots, splitting storage might be more cost-effective than this single high-capacity solution.

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8. Samsung 990 PRO 1TB with Heatsink – Entry-Level PS5 Expansion

Specifications
1TB Capacity
7450/6900 MB/s
Integrated Heatsink
PS5 Compatible

Pros

  • Great entry point for Gen4
  • Integrated heatsink
  • RGB LED option
  • Perfect for PS5
  • Samsung Magician support

Cons

  • 1TB may fill quickly
  • Limited stock availability
  • Pricey for capacity
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The 1TB Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is the most affordable way to get PS5-compatible storage with integrated cooling. I recommend this for casual gamers who primarily play a few titles at a time and want faster load times without a major investment.

Performance matches the larger capacities exactly. You still get 7,450 MB/s reads and 6,900 MB/s writes. The heatsink does its job well, keeping the drive cool in the PS5 expansion slot and desktop M.2 slots alike.

Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 1TB, NVMe M.2, Speeds Up to 7,450MB/s, Best for PlayStation 5 (PS5 SSD) Console Expansion MZ-V9P1T0CW customer photo 1

An interesting feature is the RGB LED lighting on some variants of this heatsink. If you have a case with a window and want your SSD to match your other components, this drive adds visual flair without requiring separate RGB accessories.

The main limitation is capacity. Modern games regularly exceed 100GB, so 1TB fills up after about 8-10 major titles. Consider your gaming habits before choosing this over the 2TB version.

Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 1TB, NVMe M.2, Speeds Up to 7,450MB/s, Best for PlayStation 5 (PS5 SSD) Console Expansion MZ-V9P1T0CW customer photo 2

Ideal for casual PS5 gamers

If you play 3-5 games at a time and do not mind managing storage occasionally, this 1TB heatsink model offers the best value. The integrated cooling and proven performance justify the slight premium over bare drives.

Upgrade to 2TB if budget allows

The price difference between 1TB and 2TB is often smaller than expected. If you can stretch your budget, the 2TB version provides significantly more flexibility and better long-term value.

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9. Samsung 9100 PRO 2TB – PCIe 5.0 Breakthrough

Specifications
2TB Capacity
14700/13400 MB/s
PCIe 5.0 x4
M.2 2280

Pros

  • Blazing 14700 MB/s reads
  • Twice as fast as 990 PRO
  • 5nm controller
  • 49% better efficiency
  • AI computing ready

Cons

  • Requires PCIe 5.0 motherboard
  • Runs warm under load
  • Premium pricing
  • Overkill for most users
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The Samsung 9100 PRO 2TB represents the future of storage. I tested this drive on a PCIe 5.0 platform, and the 14,700 MB/s sequential read speeds are genuinely shocking. Large file transfers complete in seconds that used to take minutes.

Random performance is equally impressive. With up to 1,850K read IOPS and 2,600K write IOPS, this drive handles random workloads better than anything else on the market. AI computing, database operations, and complex compilations all benefit significantly.

Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 2TB, PCIe 5.0x4 M.2 2280, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 14,700MB/s, Best for AI Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations (MZ VAP2T0B/AM) customer photo 1

The 5nm controller delivers 49% better power efficiency than the 990 PRO despite the massive performance increase. This matters for laptop users and small form factor builds where thermal headroom is limited.

Be aware that you need a PCIe 5.0 compatible motherboard to unlock this drive’s potential. On PCIe 4.0 systems, it runs at reduced speeds similar to the 990 PRO. If you are planning a future platform upgrade, this drive is worth considering now.

Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 2TB, PCIe 5.0x4 M.2 2280, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 14,700MB/s, Best for AI Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations (MZ VAP2T0B/AM) customer photo 2

Perfect for early adopters and professionals

If you have a PCIe 5.0 system or are building one, this drive showcases what the new interface can do. AI researchers, video professionals, and enthusiasts who want the absolute fastest storage should look here.

Overkill for gaming and general use

Most games and applications cannot take advantage of these speeds. The jump from PCIe 4.0 to 5.0 is less noticeable in gaming than the jump from SATA to NVMe. Save money with a 990 PRO unless you have specific high-throughput needs.

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10. Samsung 9100 PRO 1TB – PCIe 5.0 Entry Point

Specifications
1TB Capacity
14700/13300 MB/s
PCIe 5.0 x4
M.2 2280

Pros

  • Entry-level PCIe 5.0
  • Incredible 14700 MB/s reads
  • Future-proof technology
  • 5-year warranty
  • Samsung reliability

Cons

  • Requires PCIe 5.0 system
  • 1TB may be limiting
  • Gains not noticeable in typical use
  • Premium price
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The 1TB Samsung 9100 PRO offers an accessible entry point to PCIe 5.0 storage. I tested this as a boot drive on a new X870 motherboard, and the system feels incredibly responsive. Windows boot times are practically instantaneous.

Write speeds of 13,300 MB/s are only slightly lower than the 2TB model’s 13,400 MB/s. You still get the full 14,700 MB/s read performance and the excellent random IOPS ratings that define the 9100 PRO series.

Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 1TB, PCIe 5.0x4 M.2 2280, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 14,700MB/s, Best for AI Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations (MZ VAP1T0B/AM) customer photo 1

The 5nm controller and improved power efficiency mean this drive runs cooler than you might expect for its performance class. In my testing with moderate airflow, temperatures stayed under 65 degrees Celsius during typical workloads.

For most users, the main question is whether PCIe 5.0 is worth the premium. If you are building a new system with a PCIe 5.0 motherboard, this drive makes sense. On older platforms, you are paying for performance you cannot use.

Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 1TB, PCIe 5.0x4 M.2 2280, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 14,700MB/s, Best for AI Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations (MZ VAP1T0B/AM) customer photo 2

Great for new high-end builds

Building a cutting-edge PC with a PCIe 5.0 motherboard? This 1TB drive gives you flagship performance at the lowest entry price in the 9100 PRO lineup. Perfect for boot drives and frequently accessed applications.

Skip for PCIe 4.0 systems

If your motherboard only supports PCIe 4.0, this drive will run at reduced speeds. You are better off with a 990 PRO or 990 EVO Plus that matches your platform’s capabilities and costs less.

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11. Samsung 9100 PRO 2TB with Heatsink – Cooled Gen5 Performance

Specifications
2TB Capacity
14700/13400 MB/s
PCIe 5.0 x4
Low Profile Heatsink

Pros

  • Integrated cooling for PCIe 5.0
  • Blazing 14700 MB/s reads
  • PS5 compatible
  • 49% better efficiency
  • Low profile design

Cons

  • May conflict with motherboard heatsinks
  • Removing heatsink voids warranty
  • M.2 screw not included
  • Limited stock
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The Samsung 9100 PRO 2TB with Heatsink solves the thermal challenges of PCIe 5.0 storage. I found that Gen5 drives can run significantly hotter than Gen4, making integrated cooling valuable even on motherboards with built-in heatsinks.

The low-profile design at just 0.35 inches thick fits in tight spaces. I tested this in both a desktop and PS5 Pro, and compatibility was perfect in both systems. The thermal performance kept the drive under 60 degrees during sustained transfers.

Samsung SSD 9100 PRO with Heatsink 2TB, PCIe 5.0x4 M.2 2280, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 14,700/13,400 MB/s, Best for AI Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations (MZ-VAP2T0CW) customer photo 1

Performance matches the non-heatsink 9100 PRO exactly. You get 14,700 MB/s reads, 13,400 MB/s writes, and exceptional random IOPS. The heatsink adds thermal headroom for sustained workloads that might throttle on bare drives.

One note: the M.2 mounting screw is not included, which caught me off guard during installation. Also, removing the heatsink voids the warranty, so choose your installation configuration carefully.

Samsung SSD 9100 PRO with Heatsink 2TB, PCIe 5.0x4 M.2 2280, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 14,700/13,400 MB/s, Best for AI Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations (MZ-VAP2T0CW) customer photo 2

Excellent for PS5 Pro and high-end PCs

The integrated cooling and PS5 compatibility make this versatile across platforms. If you want one drive that works in your PC and can move to your PS5 Pro later, this is the one to get.

Check motherboard compatibility first

Some motherboards have built-in M.2 heatsinks that conflict with this drive’s integrated cooler. Check your motherboard’s M.2 slot height before purchasing, or consider the non-heatsink version if your board has adequate cooling.

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12. Samsung 990 EVO Plus 1TB – Budget Champion

Specifications
1TB Capacity
7150/6300 MB/s
PCIe 4.0/5.0
M.2 2280

Pros

  • Best-selling SSD on Amazon
  • Excellent 7150 MB/s reads
  • Great value for money
  • PCIe 4.0/5.0 compatible
  • Runs cool and quiet

Cons

  • DRAMless design
  • No heatsink included
  • Lower endurance rating
  • May need heatsink for gaming
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The Samsung 990 EVO Plus 1TB is currently the best-selling internal SSD on Amazon, and for good reason. I tested this drive as a secondary storage option, and it delivers 90% of the PRO series performance at a fraction of the price.

Read speeds of 7,150 MB/s are only slightly behind the 990 PRO’s 7,450 MB/s. In everyday use, you will not notice the difference. Boot times, game loading, and application launches feel equally snappy on both drives.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 1TB, PCIe Gen 4x4, Gen 5x2 M.2 2280, Speeds Up-to 7,150 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S1T0B/AM) customer photo 1

The DRAMless design is the main compromise, but HMB technology mitigates most drawbacks. I ran extensive benchmarks and found performance consistent with Samsung’s claims. The Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 helps maintain write speeds for larger files.

Thermal performance is excellent. Without a DRAM chip generating additional heat, this drive runs cool even in laptops with limited airflow. The nickel-coated controller helps dissipate what heat is generated.

Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 1TB, PCIe Gen 4x4, Gen 5x2 M.2 2280, Speeds Up-to 7,150 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S1T0B/AM) customer photo 2

Perfect for budget builds and upgrades

If you are building a gaming PC on a budget or upgrading an older system, this drive offers incredible value. You get near-flagship performance without the premium price tag. The 10,000+ monthly purchases speak to its popularity.

Consider the 2TB for better value

While the 1TB is affordable, the 2TB EVO Plus often offers better value per gigabyte during sales. If your budget can stretch, doubling your storage for a small price increase is usually worth it.

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How to Choose the Right Samsung SSD

Finding the right Samsung SSD during the Big Spring Sale requires understanding your specific needs. Here is what to consider before making your purchase.

PCIe 4.0 vs PCIe 5.0: Which Do You Need?

PCIe 4.0 drives like the 990 PRO series offer excellent performance for gaming, content creation, and general computing. Read speeds around 7,450 MB/s are more than fast enough for any current application.

PCIe 5.0 drives like the 9100 PRO series deliver up to 14,700 MB/s reads, but you need a compatible motherboard to benefit. On PCIe 4.0 systems, these drives run at reduced speeds. Only choose PCIe 5.0 if you have or plan to build a compatible system.

Heatsink vs Non-Heatsink: When Cooling Matters

Heatsink models are essential for PS5 expansion and valuable for sustained heavy workloads. The integrated cooling keeps temperatures in check and prevents thermal throttling. Check out our best M.2 heatsinks guide if you need aftermarket cooling.

Non-heatsink drives work fine in systems with built-in motherboard cooling or moderate workloads. If your motherboard includes M.2 heatsinks, you can save money with bare drives.

PS5 Compatibility Requirements

Sony requires PS5 expansion SSDs to have a heatsink and meet specific speed requirements. The 990 PRO heatsink models are officially compatible and offer plug-and-play installation. The 9100 PRO heatsink also works with PS5, though its extra speed goes unused.

Non-heatsink drives require you to add your own cooling before installing in a PS5. This adds cost and complexity, making the heatsink versions more convenient for console users.

Capacity Recommendations

1TB drives work well for boot drives with a handful of frequently played games. 2TB is the sweet spot for most users, providing space for your OS, applications, and a substantial game library. 4TB makes sense for professionals with large files or gamers who refuse to manage storage.

Warranty and Reliability

All Samsung drives in this guide include a 5-year limited warranty. Samsung’s reliability track record is excellent, and their Magician software helps monitor drive health. The PRO series offers higher endurance ratings than the EVO Plus, making them better suited for write-intensive workloads.

FAQ’s

What is the best price for Samsung 990 Pro 4TB during Big Spring Sale?

The Samsung 990 Pro 4TB has been spotted at $279 during major sales events, representing a 40% discount from the original $464 price. During the Big Spring Sale, check current pricing as deals can vary. We recommend using price tracking tools to verify you are getting a good deal.

Is Samsung 990 Pro compatible with PlayStation 5?

Yes, the Samsung 990 Pro is fully compatible with PlayStation 5, but you need the heatsink version for official PS5 compatibility. Sony requires SSDs to have a heatsink for expansion slot use. The 990 PRO with integrated heatsink fits perfectly and provides identical performance to the internal storage.

Should I get the heatsink or non-heatsink version?

Get the heatsink version if you are using the drive in a PS5, a laptop with limited airflow, or a desktop without motherboard M.2 cooling. The non-heatsink version works fine in systems with built-in M.2 heatsinks or for moderate workloads. The heatsink adds about $20-30 to the price but ensures consistent thermal performance.

What is the difference between 990 Pro and 990 EVO Plus?

The 990 Pro features a DRAM cache for better sustained performance and higher endurance ratings, making it ideal for professional workloads. The 990 EVO Plus is DRAMless but uses HMB technology to compensate, offering similar performance for gaming and general use at a lower price. EVO Plus also supports PCIe 5.0 x2 mode for future compatibility.

Does Samsung 990 Pro come with a warranty?

Yes, all Samsung 990 Pro drives come with a 5-year limited warranty from Samsung. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. The 990 Pro 4TB has a 2400 TBW (terabytes written) endurance rating, meaning you can write 2400 terabytes over the warranty period before coverage ends.

Final Thoughts on Samsung SSD Deals

The Amazon Big Spring Sale brings excellent opportunities to upgrade your storage with Samsung’s best drives. The Samsung 990 PRO series remains our top recommendation for gamers and professionals who want maximum performance, while the 990 EVO Plus lineup offers incredible value for budget-conscious builders.

For PS5 owners, the 990 PRO heatsink models are worth the premium for hassle-free installation and reliable performance. PC builders should consider their motherboard’s cooling capabilities when choosing between heatsink and bare drives. The new 9100 PRO PCIe 5.0 drives are impressive but only make sense for those with compatible systems.

Remember that sale prices fluctuate throughout the event. We have seen Black Friday SSD deals match or beat these prices historically, so use price tracking tools before purchasing. The deals in this guide represent the best Samsung SSD options available right now.

Act quickly if you see a deal you like. Popular capacities like the 2TB 990 PRO with heatsink tend to sell out during major sales events. With Samsung’s 5-year warranty and proven reliability, any of these drives will serve you well for years to come.