Samsung’s P9 and P7 Portable SSDs Bring USB4 Speeds and Up to 8TB to Gamescom

Samsung has introduced its next-generation Portable SSD P Series at Gamescom 2026 in Cologne, Germany. The flagship P9 reaches sequential read speeds of 4,000 MB/s, while the more versatile P7 targets everyday users, gamers, and mobile workflows. Both drives use USB4 and offer capacities of up to 8TB.

Key takeaways

Samsung’s new portable storage lineup focuses on faster transfers and higher capacities for modern gaming and creative workloads.

• The P9 reaches up to 4,000 MB/s reads and 3,800 MB/s writes.
• The P9 is available with up to 8TB of storage.
• The P7 adds USB4 connectivity and 2-meter drop-tested durability.
• Both models launch globally from August 31, starting at $289.99.

P9 targets demanding creators

The P9 is Samsung’s performance-focused model for professionals, content creators, and power users handling large game installations, RAW media, AI content, and ultra-high-resolution video. Its maximum sequential read speed is 4,000 MB/s, with writes reaching 3,800 MB/s—approximately twice the stated performance of Samsung’s T9 portable SSD.

Samsung says sustained write performance enables 12K direct recording, allowing compatible production workflows to capture large video files directly to the drive. The company also describes the 8TB P9 as the world’s first USB4 portable SSD to combine that capacity with speeds of up to 4,000 MB/s. The drive received a CES 2026 Innovation Award.

P7 adds portability and durability

The P7 is positioned as the more accessible option for everyday storage, including file transfers, backups, gaming libraries, and media projects. Samsung lists compatibility with desktop PCs, laptops, smartphones, gaming consoles, and cameras, although real-world performance will depend on the host device, cable, and workload.

Unlike the P9-focused performance messaging, Samsung has not published equivalent detailed speed figures for the P7. It has confirmed that the drive passed a 2-meter drop test, as well as shock and vibration testing, making it better suited to travel and outdoor use.

Capacities, pricing, and availability

Both SSD families are planned in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB configurations, though Samsung notes that availability may vary by market or arrive in stages. The global rollout begins August 31, 2026.

The pricing places both products above mainstream portable SSDs, particularly at higher capacities. For PC builders, gamers, and creators, the P9’s value will depend on having USB4-equipped hardware capable of taking advantage of its bandwidth, while the P7 offers a broader balance between speed, capacity, and physical resilience.

Via Samsung