So, you’ve snagged a Samsung 980 Pro SSD, and that’s fantastic! You’re rocking some of the fastest storage speeds available, perfect for gaming, video editing, or just zipping through everyday tasks. But here’s the kicker: these high-performance NVMe drives can get a bit toasty under heavy load. When they get too hot, they “throttle” – meaning they intentionally slow down to prevent damage. Not ideal when you’re trying to hit peak performance!
That’s where a good heatsink comes in. Adding a heatsink to your Samsung 980 Pro SSD helps dissipate heat, keeping your drive cooler and ensuring it runs at its advertised blazing-fast speeds without skipping a beat. Whether you’re upgrading your PC or looking for the best heatsink for Samsung 980 Pro SSD for your PlayStation 5, we’ve got you covered. We’ve scoured the market to bring you the top 10 options that will help your 980 Pro stay chill and perform at its absolute best. Let’s dive in!
Why Your Samsung 980 Pro Needs a Heatsink
The Samsung 980 Pro is a PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD, designed for incredible speed. But with great speed comes great heat generation. Without adequate cooling, continuous heavy workloads (like large file transfers, intense gaming sessions, or complex video rendering) can push the drive’s temperature beyond optimal limits. This leads to thermal throttling, where the SSD’s performance is intentionally reduced to protect its components. A well-designed heatsink provides a larger surface area to dissipate this heat, ensuring your drive remains cool and maintains its peak performance, making it a truly worthwhile investment to get the best heatsink for Samsung 980 Pro SSD.
The 10 Best Heatsink Solutions for Samsung 980 Pro SSD
Let’s take a closer look at the options that will help your Samsung 980 Pro thrive.
1. SAMSUNG 980 PRO SSD with Heatsink 1TB PCIe Gen 4
This is the ultimate all-in-one solution if you’re looking to purchase a new Samsung 980 Pro SSD. Samsung themselves recognized the need for superior thermal management, so they integrated a heatsink directly onto this version of the drive. It’s tailor-made to keep the 980 Pro cool, especially for demanding use cases like PlayStation 5 gaming or high-end PC builds, ensuring you never face performance drops due to overheating.
Key Features:
* Integrated heatsink for maximum heat control
* Maintains speed, power efficiency, and thermal control
* Prevents downtime from overheating on PS5 and PCs
* Powered by Samsung’s in-house controller for top speeds
* PCIe 4.0 interface, 2x faster than PCIe 3.0 SSDs
* Nickel-coated controller for effective NAND chip thermal control
Pros:
* Seamless, integrated solution from the manufacturer
* Optimized thermal performance right out of the box
* Guaranteed compatibility and performance with the 980 Pro
* Excellent for PS5 expansion and high-performance PC use
Cons:
* You must purchase a new SSD; not for existing non-heatsink 980 Pro owners
* May not fit in all cramped PC M.2 slots due to heatsink height
User Impressions:
Users rave about the plug-and-play convenience and robust performance. Gamers, especially on PS5, frequently praise its ability to handle long sessions without any noticeable throttling, highlighting its reliability and speed.
2. M.2 PS5 SSD NVMe Heatsink for Samsung 990 980 Pro
If you already own a Samsung 980 Pro or are looking for a standalone cooling solution, this M.2 NVMe heatsink is a solid choice. Designed with versatility in mind, it’s compatible with a wide range of M.2 2280 SSDs, including your 980 Pro. Its aluminum alloy design with a grooved surface is specifically engineered to enhance the cooling area, promising a significant temperature drop to keep your system efficient.
Key Features:
* Designed for M.2 2280 SSDs, including Samsung 980 Pro
* Aluminum alloy groove material for enhanced cooling area
* Can achieve 10°C – 30°C cooling effect
* Easy to install with double-sided clips and adjustable screws
* Includes three nano thermal pads for optimal conductivity
* Small and lightweight design
Pros:
* Excellent aftermarket cooling performance
* Broad compatibility with various M.2 SSDs
* Simple installation process with adjustable components
* High-quality thermal pads included
Cons:
* Cooling effect can vary based on environmental factors
* May require careful measurement for extremely tight spaces
User Impressions:
Customers appreciate how straightforward it is to install this heatsink, often noting a clear reduction in SSD temperatures during heavy use. Many users have successfully deployed it in both PCs and PS5s, reporting stable performance.
3. Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 1TB, NVMe M.2, Speeds Up
While not strictly a heatsink for the 980 Pro, this product represents Samsung’s next-generation integrated solution. If you’re considering an upgrade or building a new system, the 990 Pro with its built-in heatsink offers even greater performance and efficiency than its predecessor. It boasts significantly faster random read/write speeds and improved power efficiency, all while maintaining top-tier thermal control thanks to its advanced heatsink and nickel-coated controller.
Key Features:
* Next-gen PCIe 4.0 performance (faster than 980 PRO)
* Integrated heatsink with RGB LED lights (on some models)
* Improved power efficiency (up to 50% over 980 PRO)
* Samsung’s nickel-coated controller for smart thermal control
* Perfect fit for PS5, desktops, and compatible laptops
* Includes Samsung Magician Software for optimization
Pros:
* Cutting-edge performance with superior thermal management
* Direct upgrade path with integrated cooling
* Excellent for future-proofing your storage
* Stylish design with optional RGB lighting
Cons:
* More expensive than the 980 Pro with heatsink
* This is a complete SSD, not just a heatsink for your existing 980 Pro
User Impressions:
Users upgrading from previous generations are blown away by the speed and sustained performance, even under the most demanding tasks. The integrated heatsink is consistently praised for keeping the drive cool and preventing any throttling.
4. M.2 2280 SSD NVMe Heatsink for Samsung 9100 PRO/990
This M.2 2280 SSD heatsink is tailor-made for high-performance drives like the Samsung 980 Pro, 990 Pro, and others in that league. Its durable aluminum construction is designed not only to protect your drive but also to maximize heat dissipation through specially engineered ventilation. This translates to extended SSD service life and consistent performance, preventing thermal issues from cropping up.
Key Features:
* Specifically designed for M.2 2280 SSDs including Samsung 980 Pro
* Durable aluminum material with engineered ventilation
* Maximizes heat dissipation to extend SSD service life
* Premium soft silicone thermal pads included
* Easy installation with adjustable screw fixing holes
* Small and lightweight design with surface notches for efficiency
Pros:
* Excellent cooling for a variety of high-end NVMe SSDs
* Robust build quality for drive protection
* Flexible installation with adjustable screws
* Improved thermal conductivity with included pads
Cons:
* Requires manual installation, unlike integrated solutions
* May vary slightly in compatibility with some motherboard layouts
User Impressions:
Many users report a significant drop in temperatures and stable performance, even during prolonged use. The quality of the thermal pads and the secure fit are frequently highlighted as positives, making it a reliable option for their Samsung 980 Pro SSD.
5. Samsung 980 PRO SSD with Heatsink 2TB PCIe Gen 4
Similar to the 1TB version, this 2TB Samsung 980 PRO SSD comes with an integrated heatsink, offering a comprehensive cooling solution right out of the box. Ideal for serious gamers or content creators who need massive storage combined with top-tier performance, this drive ensures that even large game libraries or hefty project files don’t lead to thermal throttling. Its design leverages data center SSD technology for superior heat dissipation.
Key Features:
* Integrated heatsink for elevated speed, power efficiency, and thermal control
* 2TB capacity for extensive storage needs
* Samsung’s nickel-coated controller for reliable NAND chip heat management
* Heat spreader label allows thermal control access
* Uses data center SSD technology for optimal heat dissipation
* Continuous ideal performance for gaming on consoles and PC systems
Pros:
* Massive storage capacity with built-in cooling
* Manufacturer-optimized thermal solution
* Exceptional for large game libraries and demanding applications
* Ensures consistent peak performance
Cons:
* Premium price due to capacity and integrated heatsink
* Not a standalone heatsink for existing 980 Pro drives
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the generous capacity combined with the stellar performance. Those with large game libraries or extensive media files appreciate that the drive stays cool and maintains speeds even under heavy, continuous writes, avoiding any frustrating slowdowns.
6. Samsung 980 PRO SSD with Heatsink 1TB PCIe Gen 4
This is another listing for the 1TB version of the Samsung 980 PRO SSD with an integrated heatsink, emphasizing its core performance attributes. It’s designed for tech enthusiasts, hardcore gamers, and professionals who demand unrivaled speed and stability. The built-in heatsink ensures that the drive’s incredible read speeds of up to 7,000 MB/s are consistently met without thermal issues, making it a top contender for the best heatsink for Samsung 980 Pro SSD solution.
Key Features:
* PCIe Gen 4.0 X4, NVMe 1.3c interface
* Backward compatible with PCIe 3.0
* Sequential read speed up to 6400MB/s (note: other listings show 7000MB/s)
* Integrated heatsink for thermal control
* Designed for tech enthusiasts, hardcore gamers, and professionals
* TRIM Support: Yes
Pros:
* Official Samsung solution for optimal compatibility
* Blazing-fast speeds thanks to PCIe 4.0
* Excellent thermal management directly integrated
* Ideal for demanding applications and gaming
Cons:
* You must buy the SSD with it; not a separate heatsink
* Specific listed sequential read speed seems slightly lower than typical 980 Pro (check official specs)
User Impressions:
Owners highlight the peace of mind that comes with a manufacturer-designed heatsink, ensuring peak performance without fiddling with aftermarket parts. It’s consistently reported to perform as expected, even under heavy gaming loads.
7. JEYI NVMe M.2 SSD Heatsink, Magnesium Aluminum Alloy
The JEYI NVMe M.2 SSD Heatsink is an excellent aftermarket option, especially notable for its slim 6mm profile. This makes it a perfect fit for compact motherboards like mATX and MiniATX, and for PS5 where space can be a constraint. Crafted from magnesium-aluminum alloy with CNC cutting, it promises efficient heat dissipation and robust durability, ensuring your Samsung 980 Pro stays cool even in tight spots.
Key Features:
* Slim 6mm profile, ideal for PS5, mATX, and MiniATX motherboards
* Durable magnesium-aluminum alloy construction
* Specially engineered ventilation aluminum surface for maximized heat dissipation
* CNC cutting for solid construction and efficient notches
* Equipped with soft thermal pads for improved conductivity
* Adjustable screw fixing holes for better contact and cooling
Pros:
* Ultra-slim design fits tight spaces
* High-quality material and construction
* Efficient cooling performance for demanding NVMe drives
* Easy to install with adjustable features
Cons:
* Might feel less substantial than bulkier heatsinks
* Aesthetic might not match all build themes
User Impressions:
Reviewers frequently commend its ability to fit into constrained spaces without compromising on cooling performance. Gamers on PS5 particularly praise its slim form factor and effectiveness in keeping their 980 Pro cool during long play sessions.
8. M.2 2280 SSD Heatsink, PCIE NVME or SATA M.2 2280
This versatile M.2 2280 SSD heatsink is designed to cool both PCIe NVMe and SATA M.2 2280 drives, making it a flexible choice for various setups, including your Samsung 980 Pro. Its double-sided heat sink design helps significantly reduce temperatures (by 10°C – 30°C), preventing thermal throttling and boosting your SSD’s overall performance. Installation is straightforward, secured by six screws for better protection and contact.
Key Features:
* Specially designed for M.2 2280 size SSDs (NVMe and SATA)
* Double-sided heat sink for comprehensive cooling
* Aims for 10°C – 30°C cooling effect
* Easy to install with 6 screws for secure mounting
* Aluminum alloy with silver plating and anodic oxidation surface treatment
* Compatible with Samsung 980 Pro, 990 Pro, and many other popular M.2 SSDs
Pros:
* Broad compatibility with different M.2 SSD types
* Effective double-sided cooling
* Secure and stable installation
* Noticeable temperature drops reported by users
Cons:
* Might be slightly bulkier than single-sided designs
* Requires careful alignment during installation to ensure proper contact
User Impressions:
Users are generally very pleased with the temperature improvements, often seeing their 980 Pro drives run much cooler under load. The robust build and secure mounting are also frequently highlighted as strong points.
9. M.2 Heatsink Cooler 2280 SSD Double-Sided Heat Sink with
This double-sided M.2 heatsink cooler offers a robust solution for your Samsung 980 Pro, whether it’s in a desktop PC or a PlayStation 5. Crafted from aluminum alloy with an anodic oxidation surface treatment, it not only looks sleek but also provides effective heat dissipation. Its double-sided clip design ensures a stable installation for various M.2 NVMe SSD heights, making it a reliable choice for consistent performance.
Key Features:
* Designed for desktop PC/PS5, compatible with single-sided M.2 2280 SSDs (like 980 Pro)
* Aluminum alloy main body with silver plating and anodic oxidation
* Good thermal conductivity with included thermal pads
* Aims for 10°C – 20°C cooling effect
* Easy double-sided clip installation for stability
* Compact dimensions (3 x 0.95 x 0.4 inches)
Pros:
* Effective double-sided cooling performance
* Good thermal pads included
* Relatively easy and stable installation
* Suitable for both PC and PS5 environments
Cons:
* Cooling performance may vary based on specific system airflow
* Clips might require a bit of force to secure properly
User Impressions:
Customers praise its simplicity and effectiveness. Many have noted a significant drop in temperatures, ensuring their SSDs perform optimally during intense gaming or data transfer sessions. The secure fit is also a common positive comment.
10. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2
Rounding off our list is another instance of the Samsung 990 PRO with its integrated heatsink, emphasizing its benefits for creative professionals and gamers. This drive is a powerhouse, delivering near-max PCIe 4.0 performance while maintaining cool temperatures thanks to Samsung’s proprietary thermal control. It’s ideal for those seeking the very best in speed, efficiency, and integrated cooling, providing an all-in-one upgrade that goes beyond just a heatsink for your existing Samsung 980 Pro SSD.
Key Features:
* Huge speed boost over 980 PRO (40%/55% faster random read/write)
* Breakthrough power efficiency (up to 50% improved performance per watt)
* Smart thermal control with Samsung’s nickel-coated controller
* Slim size for perfect fit in PS5, desktops, and compatible laptops
* Enhances gaming with faster loads and DirectStorage PC games
* SAMSUNG Magician Software for optimization and RGB LED lights
Pros:
* Top-tier performance with exceptional power efficiency
* Integrated, manufacturer-optimized cooling
* Perfect for future-proofing and high-demand applications
* Includes useful software and stylish RGB lighting
Cons:
* Premium pricing
* It’s a complete SSD replacement, not an add-on heatsink
User Impressions:
Users upgrading to the 990 Pro with heatsink are consistently impressed by the noticeable speed increase and the absolute lack of thermal throttling, even under the most strenuous tasks. The ease of installation (being an all-in-one unit) is a major plus for many.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why does my Samsung 980 Pro SSD need a heatsink?
A: High-performance NVMe SSDs like the Samsung 980 Pro generate a lot of heat, especially under heavy workloads. This heat can lead to “thermal throttling,” where the SSD automatically slows down to prevent damage. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, ensuring your drive maintains its top speeds and extends its lifespan.
Q2: What is thermal throttling?
A: Thermal throttling is a safety mechanism where an electronic component (like an SSD) reduces its performance to lower its operating temperature when it gets too hot. While it protects the drive, it means you’re not getting the full speed and performance you paid for.
Q3: Are all M.2 heatsinks compatible with the Samsung 980 Pro?
A: Most M.2 2280 heatsinks are generally compatible, as the 980 Pro is a standard 2280 form factor. However, it’s always best to double-check the product description for specific compatibility with the 980 Pro and to ensure it fits your motherboard’s M.2 slot or your PS5 expansion slot, considering any space constraints.
Q4: Can I install a heatsink on a 980 Pro that didn’t come with one?
A: Absolutely! If you purchased a Samsung 980 Pro without an integrated heatsink, you can easily add an aftermarket M.2 2280 heatsink. These are designed to attach directly to the SSD, often using clips or screws, with thermal pads to ensure good contact for heat transfer.
Q5: Does adding a heatsink truly improve SSD performance?
A: Yes, indirectly. A heatsink doesn’t make your SSD faster than its advertised speeds, but it prevents it from slowing down due to overheating. By keeping temperatures stable, it ensures your Samsung 980 Pro can consistently deliver its maximum performance without hitting thermal throttling limits, especially during prolonged read/write operations.
Q6: Is it hard to install an M.2 heatsink?
A: Generally, no. Most aftermarket M.2 heatsinks are designed for easy installation. They usually involve placing thermal pads on the SSD, then securing the heatsink with clips or small screws. Basic DIY computer skills are usually sufficient. If you’re installing it in a PS5, you’ll need to follow Sony’s guidelines for M.2 SSD installation.
Q7: What’s the difference between a built-in heatsink SSD and an aftermarket one?
A: A built-in heatsink SSD (like the Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink) comes with the cooling solution pre-attached by the manufacturer. It’s an all-in-one unit. An aftermarket heatsink is a separate accessory you buy and install yourself onto an SSD that didn’t originally come with one. Both aim to achieve the same goal of thermal management.
Conclusion
Your Samsung 980 Pro SSD is a powerful piece of hardware, capable of incredible speeds. But to truly unlock and sustain that performance, especially under demanding loads, proper thermal management is key. Investing in the best heatsink for Samsung 980 Pro SSD is a smart move that will prevent frustrating slowdowns due to thermal throttling and help prolong the life of your drive.
Whether you opt for an all-in-one solution like the Samsung 980 Pro with integrated heatsink, or choose a high-quality aftermarket heatsink, you’ll be giving your SSD the best chance to perform at its peak. So go ahead, keep that powerful drive cool, and enjoy blazing-fast, consistent performance!