As the gaming community eagerly anticipates the next generation of PCs, marked by advanced CPUs and GPUs, the excitement is palpable. This wave of innovation brings with it a wealth of opportunities for gamers, many of whom are contemplating full system upgrades. Among the multitude of components available, one component stands out for its affordability and performance—the Lexar NM790 SSD. This article delves into the significance of this upcoming hardware revolution and why the NM790 should be on the radar of both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.
Anticipating Hardware Upgrades: The New Wave of CPUs and GPUs
Every time a new technological leap is within reach, a sense of freshness fills the air, especially in the gaming sector. The advent of AMD’s Zen 5 processors and expected releases of Intel’s Arrow Lake chips signal a time of promise. The talk of Nvidia’s Blackwell series, featuring the rumored RTX 5080 and RTX 5090, further heightens the anticipation for potent gaming rigs that can support the graphical and computational demands of modern titles. For many gamers, the existing hardware may have outlived its useful life, paving the way for robust new systems. This evolution invites a reconsideration of components that can optimize system performance without breaking the bank.
While it’s common to focus on high-end CPUs and GPUs, one must not overlook the critical role of the SSD in a gaming rig. A speedy SSD can dramatically affect load times, performance, and overall user experience. Although many may rush to acquire the latest PCIe 5.0 drives, it is essential to recognize that PCIe 4.0 SSDs remain competent and highly functional for most users. This is where the Lexar NM790 makes its mark.
The Lexar NM790: Cost-Effective Performance
Currently available for compelling discounts on platforms like Amazon—$75 for 1TB and $140 for the 2TB version—the NM790 represents exceptional value. These prices reflect a saving of 25% and 26%, which is noteworthy for gamers on a budget. The NM790 doesn’t just flaunt attractive pricing; it also delivers solid performance metrics with read speeds of up to 7,400 MB/s and write speeds reaching 6,500 MB/s. For most gaming purposes and day-to-day tasks, these speeds ensure smooth operation and quick data access.
It’s pertinent to address certain misconceptions surrounding cache-less SSDs. While the NM790 uses TLC technology without dedicated DRAM cache, modern SSDs utilize segments of their TLC as pseudo-SLC cache. This ensures powerful performance even during extensive file transfers and read-heavy tasks. Ultimately, gaming largely relies on read speeds rather than the nuances of cache performance, highlighting the NM790’s suitability as a robust choice for avid gamers.
For those contemplating a new gaming setup, deciding between 1TB and 2TB versions depends on gaming habits and storage needs. The 2TB capacity allows for more flexibility, accommodating multiple large installations that modern games often require. However, the 1TB version is an excellent starting point for budget-conscious individuals looking to build an efficient rig.
Beyond gaming, the value proposition of the NM790 extends into general computing and content creation, making it a versatile option. It maintains a balance between price and performance, resulting in a product that does not shy away from competition despite not being marketed as next-gen.
While next-gen CPUs and GPUs are essential for high-end performance, the Lexar NM790 SSD offers practical benefits that can elevate your gaming experience without extensive financial investment. As the landscape of gaming technology expands, ensuring that your storage solution can keep pace is crucial. Whether you’re building a new rig or upgrading an existing one, the NM790 embodies the essence of value and efficiency in today’s gaming market.