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The Samsung 980 PRO remains a fast PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, with Samsung rating its 1TB and 2TB models for sequential reads up to 7,000 MB/s. It is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0, but cannot reach its headline speeds on that interface. In 2026, it is most compelling when discounted; compare the exact capacity and heatsink version with newer drives before buying.
What the Samsung 980 PRO is
The 980 PRO is an M.2 2280, PCIe Gen 4.0 x4 NVMe 1.3c SSD built with Samsung’s controller and V-NAND. Samsung lists capacities of 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB. Its datasheet specifies onboard LPDDR4 DRAM, with the amount increasing by capacity.
| Capacity | DRAM | Maximum sequential read | Maximum sequential write |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250GB | 512MB | 6,400 MB/s | 2,700 MB/s |
| 500GB | 1GB | 5,000 MB/s | 4,100 MB/s |
| 1TB | 1GB | 7,000 MB/s | 5,000 MB/s |
| 2TB | 2GB | 7,000 MB/s | 5,100 MB/s |
These are Samsung’s maximum sequential ratings, not guaranteed results for every computer or workload. The company says performance can vary with firmware, hardware, configuration, and other factors. See Samsung’s 980 PRO specifications.
How fast is it in practice?
The 1TB and 2TB versions have the strongest sequential specifications, topping out at 7,000 MB/s read. Write speed is capacity-dependent: the 2TB model is rated at 5,100 MB/s, the 1TB at 5,000 MB/s, and smaller versions lower still. Those differences matter when comparing listings; a 250GB 980 PRO is not rated like the 1TB or 2TB drive.
#1 Best Overall
- MEET THE NEXT GEN: Consider this a cheat code; Our Samsung 990 PRO Gen4 SSD helps you reach near max performance with lightning-fast speeds; Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a tech guru, you’ll get power efficiency built for the final boss
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; With a more than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO, it’s here for heavy computing and faster loading
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD'S FLASH MEMORY BRAND: The speed you need for any occasion; With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s you’ll reach near max performance of PCIe 4.0 powering through for any use
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB; Sync all your saves and reign supreme in gaming, video editing, data analysis and more
- IT’S A POWER MOVE: Save the power for your performance; Get power efficiency all while experiencing up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO; It makes every move more effective with less consumption
Sequential figures describe sustained transfers of large, contiguous data. They do not by themselves predict every workload: random access, the host system, firmware, and thermal conditions also affect responsiveness. A 2026 GamesRadar PS5 guide describes newer drives as capable of faster or more consistent random performance, while still treating the 980 PRO as a strong-value option when discounted. That is a useful buying distinction: its headline transfer rate is still competitive, but it is not proof that it is the fastest choice for every task.
Will it work in a PCIe 3.0 slot?
Yes, the drive is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0, provided the system supports the M.2 2280 NVMe drive. The host interface limits throughput, so a PCIe 3.0 installation will not deliver the 980 PRO’s PCIe 4.0 headline speeds. Check the computer or motherboard specifications for M.2 NVMe support, slot size, and interface before purchase; Samsung also advises checking host compatibility.
Rank #2
- HUGE SPEED BOOST: Get random read/write speeds that are 40%/55% faster than 980 PRO; Experience up to 1400K/1550K IOPS, while sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s reach near the max performance of PCIe 4.0*
- BREAKTHROUGH POWER EFFICIENCY: Use less power and get more performance; Enjoy up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO, plus optimal power efficiency with max PCIe 4.0 performance**
- SMART THERMAL CONTROL: Samsung's own nickel-coated controller delivers effective thermal control; With its slim size, 990 PRO is a perfect fit for desktops and laptops that meet the PCI-SIG D8 standard***
- THE CHAMPION MAKER: Up to 65% improvement in random performance enables faster loads for an ultimate gaming experience on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games****
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Get the most out of your SSD with Samsung Magician's advanced yet intuitive optimization tools; Monitor drive health, protect valuable data, and receive important updates for your 990 PRO
Should you buy the heatsink version?
Samsung sells a separate 980 PRO with Heatsink in 1TB and 2TB capacities. It uses the same PCIe Gen 4.0 x4 interface and is rated for up to 7,000 MB/s sequential read. Samsung describes the heatsink as a thermal-control solution for sustained workloads. The standard model does not include that dedicated heatsink, so make the choice based on the cooling provided by the host.
- Consider the heatsink version for a console or sustained workload if the host does not provide adequate M.2 cooling. Sony’s PS5 storage requirements and installation guidance should be checked for the specific console: PS5 M.2 SSD installation.
- Consider the standard version if your desktop motherboard or laptop has compatible M.2 thermal hardware and clearance for the drive.
Do not assume the heatsink-equipped drive fits every slot or enclosure: confirm physical clearance and the host’s requirements. Samsung’s separate 980 PRO with Heatsink specifications cover its rated configuration.
Rank #3
- Next-level SSD performance: Unleash the power of the Samsung 980 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD for next-level computing. 980 PRO delivers 2x the data transfer rate of PCIe 3.0, while maintaining compatibility with PCIe 3.0.
- Maximum Speed: Get read speeds up to 7,000 MB s with 980 PRO and push the limits of what SSDs can do. Powered by a new Elpsis controller designed to harmonize the flash memory components and the interface for superior speed – with a PCIe 4.0 interface that’s 2x faster than PCIe 3.0 SSDs and 12x faster than Samsung SATA SSDs – every component of this NVMe SSD is manufactured by Samsung for performance that lasts.
- A winning combination: Designed for hardcore gamers and tech-savvy users, the 980 PRO offers high-performance bandwidth and throughput for heavy-duty applications in gaming, graphics, data analytics, and more. It's fast at loading games, so you can play more and wait less.
- Efficient M.2 SSD: The 980 PRO comes in a compact M.2 2280 form factor, which can be easily plugged into desktops and laptops. Due to its size and thus optimized power efficiency, it’s ideal for building high-performance computing systems.
- Reliable thermal control: High-performance SSDs usually require high-performance thermal control. To ensure stable performance, the 980 PRO uses nickel coating to help manage the controller's heat level and a heat spreader label to deliver effective thermal control of the NAND chip.
Is the 980 PRO a good PS5 SSD?
It can be a suitable PS5 expansion drive if the capacity, physical dimensions, cooling, and installation meet Sony’s requirements. The 980 PRO with Heatsink is the straightforward variant to consider when the console installation lacks adequate cooling. Sony’s compatibility instructions are the controlling reference for installation, rather than speed ratings alone.
TechRadar’s 2025 PS5 guide lists the drive at up to 7,000/5,100 MB/s and cites 1,200 TBW for the listed capacities. Those are the guide’s stated figures; no published information establishes endurance for every capacity or a warranty duration, so check the exact model’s Samsung documentation and current listing rather than assuming one figure applies across all versions. In August 2026, GamesRadar characterized the 980 PRO as a strong-value PS5 choice when discounted, while noting newer drives may offer faster or more consistent random performance.
Rank #4
- Designed for hardcore gamers and tech-savvy users
- Offers high-performance bandwidth and throughput for heavy-duty applications in gaming, graphics, data analytics, and more
- NVMe SSD powered by V-NAND technology
- Designed with hardcore gamers and tech-savvy users in mind
Firmware and drive health
Samsung’s support tools page currently lists 980 PRO Series firmware ISO 5B2QGXA7. Availability can change, so use Samsung’s current support listing to verify the firmware applicable to your drive: Samsung consumer storage support tools.
Recommended Free Tools
Samsung Magician supports firmware updates, drive-health status, secure erase, and total-bytes-written monitoring for Samsung internal SSDs. Before benchmarking, check which firmware is installed; before a firmware update or other maintenance, back up important data. Firmware work is not a substitute for maintaining a separate backup.
Best Value
- BREAKTHROUGH PCIe 5.0 PERFORMANCE: Supercharge your workflow and gaming with PCIe 5.0, boasting up to 14,700/13,400 MB/s* sequential read/write speeds. Tackle massive files and power up your gaming with Gen5—twice as fast as the 990 PRO SSD.
- EVERY TASK, TURBOCHARGED: Speed past productivity limits. With random read/write speeds up to 1,850K/2,600K IOPS*, enjoy fast game loads, seamless AI apps, and efficient multitasking. Virtually no lag, no limits—just nonstop performance.
- THINK FAST, CREATE FASTER: With random read/write speeds of up to 1,850K/2,600K IOPS*, the 9100 PRO SSD fuels seamless AI content creation, swift loads, and smooth gameplay. Work, play, and create at lightning speed.
- SPEED, WHENEVER YOU NEED: From laptops to desktop PCs, experience blazing PCIe 5.0 speeds and up to 8TB of storage. Perfect for video editing, gaming, and creative tasks, with the compatibility to match your device.
- STAY COOL, RUN FAST: Push limits, not temperatures. A 5nm controller boosts power efficiency up to 49% over the 990 PRO SSD*, while advanced thermal control keeps performance smooth and reliable.
Is it still worth buying in 2026?
The answer depends primarily on the price of the exact model. The 980 PRO’s PCIe 4.0 sequential performance remains strong, and a discount can make it an attractive option. Newer PCIe 4.0 SSDs may provide faster or more consistent random performance, however, so compare independent reviews and the price of the same capacity rather than choosing on the 7,000 MB/s rating alone. Prices and stock vary, and there is no fixed current price to recommend.
Quick Recap
| What to compare | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Exact capacity | Sequential write ratings and DRAM differ by capacity. |
| Random performance | Large-file sequential maximums do not establish performance in every workload. |
| Heatsink | Check whether the drive includes one and whether the host needs it. |
| Interface compatibility | PCIe 4.0 is needed for rated headline throughput; PCIe 3.0 works at lower host-limited speeds. |
| Endurance and warranty | Verify the exact model and current Samsung documentation; a single figure should not be assumed for all capacities. |
| Price and alternatives | Compare the same capacity against newer PCIe 4.0 drives available at the time of purchase. |
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
