This article covers Lexar EQ790 2TB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe 1.4。.
Overview
The Lexar EQ790 2TB SSD is a M.2 2280 NVMe internal drive leveraging the PCIe Gen4x4 interface. With sequential read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s and writes up to 6,000 MB/s, it delivers near the ceiling of the PCIe 4.0 bandwidth, making it an excellent choice for gaming PCs and content creation rigs. It employs HMB (Host Memory Buffer) and SLC caching to maintain strong performance despite being DRAM-less. The drive is also compatible with the PlayStation 5's expansion slot, offering an affordable 2TB upgrade. Market positioning sits between entry-level and mid-range, providing exceptional value for budget-conscious builders.
Compatibility Guide
The Lexar EQ790 uses the standard M.2 2280 form factor and the PCIe 4.0 x4 interface with NVMe 1.4 protocol. It is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0 slots, but peak speeds will drop to around 3,500 MB/s. The drive officially supports the PS5 internal expansion slot, as well as Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. Installation is straightforward: insert into a free M.2 slot and secure with a screw. No additional power cables are required.
Product Info
Released in late 2024, the Lexar EQ790 positions itself as an entry-to-mid-level NVMe SSD that punches above its price point. It uses 3D TLC NAND and achieves 7,000 MB/s reads and 6,000 MB/s writes via HMB and SLC caching. TBW rating is 1,200 TB, and MTBF is 1,500,000 hours. Lexar backs it with a 5-year limited warranty. While DRAM-less, the SLC cache ensures responsive day-to-day performance.
Best Use Cases
- PS5 Storage Expansion: The drive fits directly into the PS5's internal M.2 slot, offering 2TB of fast storage for games. The read speed matches PS5 requirements, ensuring quick level loads. 2. Budget Gaming PC Builds: If you are building a gaming PC with a PCIe 4.0 motherboard, this SSD provides fast load times and large capacity without breaking the bank. Ideal for boot drive and game library. 3. Secondary Storage for Content Creators: Use it as scratch disk or media storage for video editing and photo workflows. However, for heavy sustained writes (e.g., 4K video export), a DRAM-equipped drive may perform more consistently.
Things to Consider
The Lexar EQ790 lacks dedicated DRAM, relying on HMB. This can lead to performance drops under sustained heavy writes compared to DRAM-based SSDs. If your workload involves constant large file transfers (e.g., server caching, database operations), consider a DRAM model. Also, in a PCIe 3.0 system, you won't benefit from the full speed. Competitors like the Crucial P3 Plus and WD SN770 offer similar pricing with DRAM, so compare based on your specific needs. The 1,200 TBW endurance is sufficient for typical gaming and office use, but heavy daily writing may wear it out faster. ## FAQ
Q: Does the Lexar EQ790 support PS5? A: Yes, it is compatible with the PS5's M.2 expansion slot. However, you may need to install a heatsink if your PS5 does not have one built-in (the drive itself does not include a heatsink). Q: Can I use this SSD in a PCIe 3.0 system? A: Yes, it is backward compatible. The drive will run at PCIe 3.0 speeds, capping around 3,500 MB/s sequential read, which is still much faster than SATA SSDs. Q: How does it compare to the Lexar NM790? A: The NM790 typically has DRAM and higher TBW ratings, but the EQ790 sacrifices DRAM for a lower price point. For most gamers and general users, the EQ790 offers excellent value.
Product Disclosure (Amazon)
- Manufacturer: Lexar
- Seller: P-LAB
- Fulfilled by: P-LAB
- ASIN: B0DNMDSKDT
- Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.
