Compare WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB and Lexar NM790 2TB: prices, speeds, $/TB. Which to buy in October 2026? Full spec breakdown.
Both the WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB and Lexar NM790 2TB sit in the Gen 4 category at 2 TB, so the matchup turns on controller efficiency, cache topology, and current pricing rather than raw class differences.
Hardware-wise, the WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB runs on an A101 controller that replaced the older WD designs in the SN7100 generation. The Lexar NM790 2TB pairs the MaxioTech MAP1602 — a DRAM-less Gen 4 controller dominating the value tier across TeamGroup, Lexar, and others.
For PS5 expansion, both are PCIe Gen 4 M.2 2280 drives that meet Sony's minimum spec (7,250 MB/s read). The console can't take advantage of speeds beyond that, so save money by choosing the Lexar NM790 2TB. Heads-up — these are full-length 2280 drives. Steam Deck and most current handhelds require shorter 2230 modules, so check capacity-specific 2230 variants if that's your target platform.
Market context: we track 11 Gen 4 2 TB drives, and by price per terabyte the WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB currently sits #5 while the Lexar NM790 2TB sits #6. Neither is a value leader right now — if $/TB is your priority, check the cheaper alternatives below before committing.
As of October 19, 2026, these tracked drives undercut both the WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB and Lexar NM790 2TB on $/TB:
The WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB fits buyers who prefer its specific performance profile or have brand preference for WD.
The Lexar NM790 2TB wins on $/TB because it pairs DRAM-less MAP1602 silicon with low-margin distribution. Performance is fine for OS and gaming, weaker only on sustained random writes.