# ADATA Falcon 256GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD (2026)

The ADATA Falcon 256GB is a budget PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD using a Realtek controller and Host Memory Buffer instead of dedicated DRAM, rated for 3,100 MB/s reads at an entry-level capacity.

Quick answer: The ADATA Falcon 256GB is a basic PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD for budget builds. Its 3,100 MB/s reads and HMB design keep costs down, but the 1,500 MB/s write speed and 256 GB capacity limit its appeal to boot-drive duty. The Samsung 980 250GB offers higher writes at 3,000 MB/s for a similar price, making it the stronger budget pick at this capacity tier.

## Specifications

| Specification | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Capacity | 256 GB |
| Interface | M.2 3.0 x 4 |
| Controller | Realtek RTS5762D |
| Memory type | 3D TLC |
| DRAM cache | SLC Caching Host Memory Buffer |
| Sequential read | 3100 MB/s |
| Sequential write | 1500 MB/s |
| Random read IOPS | 180000 |
| Random write IOPS | 180000 |
| Endurance | 150 TBW |
| MTBF | 1.8 |
| Warranty | 5 years |

## Performance

ADATA rates the Falcon 256GB at 3,100 MB/s sequential reads and 1,500 MB/s sequential writes, with 180,000 random read and write IOPS. The read speed sits below the PCIe 3.0 ceiling of roughly 3,500 MB/s, and the write speed is modest even by PCIe 3.0 budget standards.

The Realtek RTS5762D controller is a budget part, and the HMB architecture limits random IO consistency under heavy multi-tasking. For everyday desktop use, boot times, and application launches, the drive performs adequately. The SLC write cache buffers burst writes, but sustained transfers will hit TLC-native speeds quickly at this capacity. Independent reviewers found the Falcon competitive with other budget DRAM-less PCIe 3.0 drives in its price tier.

## Endurance, TBW & Warranty

ADATA covers the Falcon with a five-year limited warranty. Endurance ratings for the Falcon vary by capacity; the 256 GB model is rated for a lower TBW than the larger capacities. ADATA's SSD Toolbox software monitors drive health and provides firmware updates. Warranty claims are processed through ADATA's service portal or the original retailer.

## Pros and Cons

**Pros:**

- 3,100 MB/s sequential reads at a low price
- M.2 2280 form factor fits most systems
- Five-year warranty from ADATA
- Low power draw suits laptops
**Cons:**

- Only 1,500 MB/s sequential writes
- DRAM-less with HMB dependency
- 256 GB capacity fills quickly
- Realtek RTS5762D is a budget controller


## Verdict

The ADATA Falcon 256GB is a basic PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD for budget builds. Its 3,100 MB/s reads and HMB design keep costs down, but the 1,500 MB/s write speed and 256 GB capacity limit its appeal to boot-drive duty. The Samsung 980 250GB offers higher writes at 3,000 MB/s for a similar price, making it the stronger budget pick at this capacity tier.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is the ADATA Falcon 256GB good for gaming?

The Falcon 256GB handles basic gaming with its 3,100 MB/s read speed, which is adequate for game loads on a PCIe 3.0 system. The 256 GB capacity limits how many games you can install alongside the OS. For a gaming-focused build, the 512 GB or 1 TB model is a more practical choice.

### What does HMB mean on the ADATA Falcon?

The Falcon uses the NVMe Host Memory Buffer (HMB) feature instead of dedicated DRAM. HMB borrows a small amount of system RAM to cache the flash translation layer. This requires Windows 10 or later and a compatible NVMe controller. Without HMB, random IO performance degrades.

### Is the ADATA Falcon 256GB compatible with the PS5?

No, the PS5 requires a PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD with recommended reads of 5,500 MB/s or higher. The Falcon is a PCIe 3.0 drive rated at 3,100 MB/s reads and does not meet Sony's requirements.

### How does the ADATA Falcon compare to the Samsung 980?

The Samsung 980 offers higher reads at 3,500 MB/s versus 3,100 MB/s on the Falcon, and higher writes at 3,000 MB/s versus 1,500 MB/s. Both are DRAM-less with HMB. The Samsung uses its own Pablo controller and V-NAND, while the Falcon uses a Realtek controller. The Samsung 980 is the stronger drive in most metrics.

### Does the ADATA Falcon 256GB work in a laptop?

Yes, the Falcon uses a standard M.2 2280 form factor that fits most laptops with an M.2 NVMe slot. The DRAM-less design and low power draw make it suitable for mobile use. HMB support requires a compatible system, which most modern laptops provide.

---

Last updated: 2026-05-17. Source: https://ssdrive.net/adata-falcon-256-gb