Lexar NM620 1000GB

The Lexar NM620 1000GB uses the PCIe 3.0 x4 interface and typically employs the Innogrit IG5216 4-channel DRAM-less controller with Host Memory Buffer (HMB) support. Paired with high-density 3D TLC NAND, the NM620 targets the upper performance limits of Gen3, delivering sequential throughput up to the PCIe 3.0 bandwidth. Thermal testing shows the Innogrit controller has lower power consumption and heat output compared to older Phison E12-based alternatives, making the drive suitable for thin-and-light laptops with restricted airflow.

Key Specifications

• Interface: PCIe Gen 3.0 x4, NVMe 1.4
• Controller: Innogrit IG5216 (4-Channel)
• NAND Type: 3D TLC
• DRAM Cache: No (HMB supported)
• Sequential Read: Up to 3300 MB/s
• Sequential Write: Up to 3000 MB/s
• Endurance: 500 TBW
• Physical Profile: Single-sided M.2 2280 PCB (Ideal for low-clearance slots)

Hardware Alternatives

• Samsung 980 (Non-Pro): The primary architectural rival. Both drives function as the "capstone" of PCIe 3.0 technology, utilizing high-speed DRAM-less controllers to achieve near-identical sequential throughput.
• WD Blue SN570: A direct functional competitor using an in-house SanDisk controller. The SN570 shares the NM620's philosophy of prioritizing sequential burst speeds and simplified architecture over sustained random I/O consistency.
• ADATA XPG SX8200 Pro: Represents the older enthusiast approach. While the NM620 matches it in sequential speeds, the SX8200 Pro utilizes an SM2262EN controller with dedicated DRAM, offering a different performance curve in heavy random workloads.