Key Specifications:
Capacity: 1TB
Form Factor: M.2 2280
Interface: PCIe Gen 3.0 x4, NVMe 1.3
Controller: Samsung Phoenix
Memory Type: Samsung V-NAND 3-bit MLC (TLC)
DRAM Cache: 1GB LPDDR4 SDRAM
Sequential Read Speed: Up to 3,500 MB/s
Sequential Write Speed: Up to 3,300 MB/s
Random Read (4KB, QD32): Up to 600,000 IOPS
Random Write (4KB, QD32): Up to 550,000 IOPS
Endurance: 600 TBW (Terabytes Written)
Security: AES 256-bit Hardware-based Encryption
DRAM acts as a high-speed map for your NVMe SSD. It stores the Flash Translation Layer (FTL) table, which tells the SSD controller exactly where your files are located. Without it, the drive operates slower, experiences heavy wear over time, and can struggle under prolonged, data-heavy workloads. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Why DRAM is Important
Faster Responsiveness: By keeping the file map on dedicated DRAM, the SSD controller can instantly look up a files location. This drastically reduces latency for booting an operating system and loading applications. [1, 2]
Consistent Sustained Writes: When copying large files or updating games, DRAM acts as a temporary buffer. This prevents the drive from severely slowing down mid-transfer, a common issue with cheaper "DRAM-less" drives. [1, 2]
Extended Drive Lifespan: DRAM minimizes "write amplification" by batching and organizing scattered write operations. This reduces unnecessary data rewriting and limits physical wear and tear on the NAND flash cells. [1, 2]
Is DRAM Always Required?
For everyday taskslike browsing the web, casual gaming, or acting as a secondary storage drivemodern DRAM-less NVMe drives are often more than enough. Many of these drives use HMB (Host Memory Buffer), which borrows a tiny fraction of your PCs main system RAM to act as a cache. [1, 2, 3, 4]
You will want to ensure you buy an NVMe with dedicated DRAM if:
It is going to be your primary operating system (boot) drive.
You frequently download and unpack large game patches (like Steam updates).
You work with professional applications like large databases or 4K/8K video editing. [1, 2, 3, 4]
If you'd like, let me know:
What you plan to use the drive for (e.g., primary boot drive, secondary game storage, video editing)?
Your target budget or capacity requirements?
One year carry in warranty. Company invoice can be provided on request.
