Lenovo Storm3 Samsung PM981a 256GB OPAL M.2 2280 PCIe Gen3 x4 NVMe SSD 02HM096

Experience blistering performance with the Lenovo Storm3 Samsung PM981a 256GB OPAL SSD, delivering up to 3,000 MB/s sequential reads and 270,000 IOPS for demanding workloads.

Overview

The Lenovo Storm3 Samsung PM981a is a high-performance M.2 2280 solid-state drive engineered for Lenovo ThinkPad systems. With a 256GB capacity, PCIe Gen3 x4 interface, and NVMe 1.3 protocol, it dramatically accelerates boot times, application launches, and file transfers. Built with Samsung V-NAND 3-bit MLC (TLC) technology and the Phoenix controller, it ensures reliability and endurance with a 150 TBW rating. The drive includes TCG OPAL 2.0 self-encrypting drive (SED) support, providing hardware-based data security for business environments.

What stands out

• Ultra-fast sequential read speeds up to 3,000 MB/s
• High random performance: 270,000 IOPS read and write
• TCG OPAL 2.0 encryption for data protection
• M.2 2280 form factor fits modern ultrabooks and workstations
• Low power consumption: 5.5 W active, 30 mW idle

Technical details

• Capacity: 256 GB
• Form Factor: M.2 2280
• Interface: PCIe Gen3 x4, NVMe 1.3
• NAND Flash: Samsung V-NAND 3-bit MLC (TLC)
• Controller: Samsung Phoenix
• Sequential Read: Up to 3,000 MB/s
• Sequential Write: Up to 1,300 MB/s
• Random Read IOPS (QD32): Up to 270,000
• Random Write IOPS (QD32): Up to 270,000
• Endurance: 150 TBW
• Encryption: TCG OPAL 2.0 (SED)
• Power Consumption: 5.5 W (active), 30 mW (idle)
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 70°C
• Features: TRIM, S.M.A.R.T.

Our verdict

A top-tier OEM SSD that combines speed, security, and endurance, ideal for Lenovo ThinkPad upgrades.