As the gaming community eagerly anticipates the launch of the next-generation hardware, excitement fills the air. With new CPU and GPU architectures on the horizon, gamers are contemplating whether to upgrade their systems or build from the ground up. Among the myriad of components to consider, the SSD often takes a backseat to flashier upgrades like high-powered graphics cards and cutting-edge processors. However, with innovation evolving rapidly, understanding the role of the SSD in a gaming rig is crucial to making an informed decision. This article delves into the upcoming hardware landscape and makes a compelling case for the Lexar NM790 SSD as a critical component in any build.
The gaming landscape is on the verge of a technological shift. With AMD Zen 5 CPUs and the anticipated 9000-series X3D chip, including the much-discussed 9800X3D, gamers are poised for performance boosts like never before. Likewise, Intel’s Arrow Lake processors are expected to introduce exciting capabilities, fulfilling the community’s thirst for more computing power.
The graphics side of the equation is equally thrilling, with Nvidia’s Blackwell cards, such as the increasingly rumored RTX 5080 and 5090, threatening to set new benchmarks for performance and graphical fidelity. The combination of these two hardware families sets the stage for a myriad of gaming enhancements, be it through more intricate game designs or larger, more expansive worlds that demand greater processing power.
In this evolving environment, many gamers are eyeing a complete system overhaul. It’s an enticing prospect to replace aging components, especially when considering the leaps in performance that newer generations offer.
Amidst the swirling excitement over powerful CPUs and GPUs, it’s paramount not to overlook the significance of storage—specifically, the SSD. When contemplating a new build, the choice of SSD can directly influence system performance, loading times, and overall gaming experience. Some may think that only the most advanced SSDs are suitable for a high-end gaming setup, but that’s not necessarily true.
The Lexar NM790 stands out as a cost-effective, yet capable, option that doesn’t sacrifice necessary performance for affordability. While cutting-edge PCIe 5.0 SSDs are on the market, their benefits are often more relevant for enthusiasts and professionals than the average gamer. The NM790, with its PCIe 4.0 speeds of up to 7,400 MB/s for reads and 6,500 MB/s for writes, positions itself as a fantastic choice for most gaming scenarios.
Pricing is an essential factor in any upgrade, and the Lexar NM790 shines in this area. With discounts making the 1TB and 2TB versions more accessible, gamers can enjoy high-speed performance without breaking the bank. Even at regular pricing, the NM790 offers robust capabilities that challenge pricier competitors, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts.
Many gamers may feel inclined to invest in larger and pricier SSDs, assuming that they will directly enhance their experience more than a mid-range model. However, the benefits of the NM790 lie in its balance between affordability and performance. Its cache-less design does not hinder the drive’s efficacy, as modern SSDs create pseudo-SLC caches that can handle everyday file transfers efficiently.
When analyzing user needs, it quickly becomes evident that read-heavy tasks dominate gaming. Players are unlikely to experience bottlenecks thanks to this SSD, no matter the intensity of their gaming sessions. The NM790 exemplifies reliable speeds that keep gaming systems fluid and responsive, making it an excellent ally for upcoming CPU or GPU upgrades.
Ultimately, whether you’re considering a new build or thinking of retrofitting your existing rig, the Lexar NM790 SSD stands out as a wise investment. Although graphics cards and processors might steal the spotlight, remember that an efficient SSD serves as the bedrock of your overall performance. After all, with increasing game sizes and improved installation requirements, choosing the right SSD is just as critical as selecting the newest CPU or GPU. It’s time to embrace the future of gaming without overlooking essential components that keep your rig running smoothly.