While the Samsung T9 reportedly functions at double the speed of the Samsung T7, the advertised 2,000 MB/s seems downright lame compared to the brand new Adata SE920, which promises read speeds of 3,800 MB/s and write rates of up to 3,700 MB/s.
To make this possible, Adata uses a USB 4.0 connection via USB-C cable to avoid the limitations of USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, which dictate the maximum speed of the Samsung T9. The SSD also reaches its full speed when connected to a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 port, but those who are content with slower data rates can also use the SE920 on USB 2.0 or USB 3.0.
Adata specifically advertises the SSD for use with the Sony PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, but buyers should note that games optimized for the new consoles can be stored on an external USB SSD, but cannot be played from it. PS5 and XSX titles must first be transferred back to the internal SSD in order to play them, but PS4 and Xbox One games can be launched from external media.
A unique feature of the SE920 is its cooling system - the SSD's enclosure can be slid apart to expose vents and a "micro-fan" can be switched on, which is intended to reduce temperature and thus increase performance under load. Adata has not yet confirmed the price of the SE920, but sales are expected to start soon.