The Samsung PM9B1 512GB MZAL4512HBLU-00BL2 is listed as an M.2 2242 NVMe SSD. Notebookcheck’s database averages show sequential read/write speeds of 2,991/1,513 MB/s in AS SSD, while CrystalDiskMark’s sequential Q32T1 averages are 3,600/2,426 MB/s. Those figures come from different workloads and are observed results—not guaranteed speeds for every computer.
How fast is the Samsung PM9B1 512GB SSD?
There is no single benchmark number for this drive. Sequential results vary substantially with the benchmark and its settings. Notebookcheck’s database reports these averages for the exact MZAL4512HBLU-00BL2 model:
| Benchmark and workload | Average read | Average write | What the result represents |
|---|---|---|---|
| AS SSD sequential | 2,991 MB/s | 1,513 MB/s | Sequential transfer test; database average |
| CrystalDiskMark 5 sequential | 2,554 MB/s | 1,716 MB/s | Sequential test; database average |
| CrystalDiskMark sequential Q32T1 | 3,600 MB/s | 2,426 MB/s | Sequential test at queue depth 32 with one thread; database average |
| DiskSpd sequential | 2,528 MB/s | 1,717 MB/s | Sequential workload; database average |
| DiskSpd sequential Q8T1 | 3,591 MB/s | 2,366 MB/s | Sequential test at queue depth 8 with one thread; database average |
These are averages across Notebookcheck’s tested systems, not results from one controlled test machine. The database’s AS SSD sequential read values range from 2,933.66 to 3,019.8 MB/s; sequential writes range from 1,363.78 to 1,781.3 MB/s. The spread is a reminder that an individual system may differ. Notebookcheck’s benchmark page was updated on December 20, 2022.
What do the MZAL4512HBLU-00BL2 benchmark results mean?
Sequential throughput
Sequential tests measure how quickly a drive transfers data in a largely continuous stream. They are useful for understanding large-file transfers, but the result depends on the benchmark version, workload, queue depth, host connection, firmware, thermals, power settings, and available free space. A Q32T1 result uses a different queue-depth and thread setup from a basic sequential test, so it should not be treated as the same measurement.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- MZVL2512HCJQ-00B00
Small-block and copy tests
AS SSD’s 4K results are much lower than its sequential figures: its database averages are 68.8 MB/s for 4K reads and 181.3 MB/s for 4K writes. These small-block measurements describe a different kind of workload and should not be compared directly with sequential throughput. AS SSD also reports average copy-test results of 1,080 MB/s for copy-game, 522 MB/s for copy-program, and 1,616 MB/s for copy-ISO; those workloads are distinct from a simple sequential transfer test.
Why the Raspberry Pi result is different
A PiBenchmarks record for the exact part number identifies a 476.4G detected drive installed with a Raspberry Pi 5 Model B Rev 1.0 and a Waveshare M.2 Hat, running Debian GNU/Linux 12 (Bookworm) on aarch64. Recorded April 17, 2024, it includes throughput figures of 413 MB/s and 624.49 MB/s. This is a result for that Raspberry Pi and hat configuration, not a drive-only measurement and not a like-for-like comparison with Notebookcheck’s laptop-derived benchmark aggregates. See PiBenchmarks record #85081.
Rank #2
- Form factor: M.2 2230 (22mm x 30mm); Whether you need a boost for gaming or a seamless workflow for heavy graphics, the PM9B1 is a smart choice for outstanding SSD performance.
- Interface: NVMe PCIe Gen4 x 4; Keep your SSD running at its peak with Full Power Mode, which drives continuous and consistent high performance
- Size: Fits 2230; Compatibility: Laptop & Desktop Compatible
- Sequential read/write up to: 4513/2726 MB/s; Random read/write up to (IOPS): 400K/320K
- Dimension: 22mm x 30mm x 2.38mm; Key Type: M Key
Is the Samsung PM9B1 M.2 2242 or 2280?
The exact MZAL4512HBLU-00BL2 part is listed by Notebookcheck as a 512GB M.2 2242 NVMe SSD, announced September 5, 2022. Do not confuse it with MZVL4512HBLU-00BL7: TechPowerUp’s entry for that similar PM9B1 512GB variant identifies it as M.2 2280 and lists PCIe 4.0 x4, NVMe 1.4, sequential rates up to 3,500 MB/s read and 2,500 MB/s write, and random rates up to 430K/400K IOPS. Those specifications belong to the MZVL part, not the MZAL 2242 drive. TechPowerUp’s MZVL4512HBLU-00BL7 listing.
Before buying or installing a replacement, check the full part number, module length, NVMe support, and the computer’s supported drive types. A matching PM9B1 name or capacity alone does not establish physical or system compatibility.
Rank #3
- Capacity: 256GB / Interface: M.2 2280 PCIe NVME SSD
- Dimension: 22mm x 80mm x 2.38mm / Key Type: M Key
- Size: Fits 2280 as is / Compatibility: Laptop & Desktop Compatible
- Bulk Packaging - Only the Drive is included. Any screws, cables, or adapter needed are sold separately
- Warranty: 2-Year Oemgenuine Warranty
How should you compare these results with another SSD?
Use results from the same benchmark version and workload. For a useful comparison, also match or account for:
- Sequential versus random or small-block access, and read versus write.
- Queue depth and thread count.
- Drive capacity and form factor.
- Host PCIe generation and link width.
- Firmware, thermal conditions, power settings, and available free space.
Notebookcheck’s database includes a DiskSpd performance rating of 21.7 points and an AS SSD total-score average of 3,410 points, with a median of 3,395 and a range of 3,301–3,569. Scores are useful only when the compared drives were tested under comparable conditions.
Rank #4
- Boost Everyday Productivity with PCIe Gen4 Speed - Upgrade your system with the Samsung PM9B1 256GB NVMe SSD featuring PCIe Gen4 x4 technology and read speeds up to 3300MB/s. Enjoy faster boot times, quicker file access, and improved responsiveness for office work, web browsing, online meetings, and daily computing tasks.
- Upgrade Aging Laptops & Desktop PCs - A cost-effective storage upgrade for older laptops, desktops, mini PCs, and small form factor systems. Replace slow hard drives or outdated SSDs to improve operating system performance, application loading speed, and overall user experience without replacing your entire computer.
- Wide Compatibility with M.2 2280 NVMe Systems - Built in the industry-standard M.2 2280 form factor with M-Key interface, compatible with a wide range of motherboards, laptops, mini PCs, workstations, and gaming systems that support PCIe NVMe SSDs. Perfect for Windows-based systems and DIY PC upgrades.
- Reliable Samsung Quality for Work, Study & Entertainment - Engineered with Samsung storage technology for dependable daily operation. Ideal for storing operating systems, office files, educational materials, photos, videos, and frequently used applications. Delivers stable performance for home users, professionals, students, and business environments.
- Ideal for Professionals, Students & Remote Workers - Designed for business professionals, students, content creators, and remote workers who need reliable storage and efficient multitasking. Launch applications faster, access documents instantly, and maintain smooth workflow performance whether working from home, in the office, or on campus.
What is not established for this exact SSD?
The available exact-variant listings do not establish a manufacturer data sheet, warranty, endurance rating, or sustained-write result for MZAL4512HBLU-00BL2. Notebookcheck describes the drive as mid-range, says it supports Pyrite encryption, and says it most likely uses a Samsung controller; the controller identification is not confirmed. A PCMark 10 report dated December 13, 2023 identifies the same part as a 476GB system drive in a Lenovo laptop with an Intel Core i5-12450H and RTX 4050 Laptop GPU, but its validation status is ERROR and it provides no isolated SSD score. It is evidence of deployment, not a usable SSD benchmark. View the PCMark 10 report.
Quick Recap
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.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →
