Ready to level up your gaming experience? If you’re still stuck with a traditional hard drive, you’re missing out on serious performance gains. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are the ultimate upgrade for faster game loading, smoother gameplay, and quicker overall system responsiveness. And when it comes to reliable, high-performance storage, Lexar is a name that gamers trust.
But with so many options, how do you pick the Lexar best amount of SSD for gaming? It’s not just about speed; capacity and specific features matter too. Whether you’re a hardcore PC enthusiast, a console gamer looking for expansion, or someone who needs portable power, Lexar has a solution. We’ve rounded up 10 top Lexar SSDs, breaking down what makes each one a fantastic choice for different types of gamers.
Why Your Gaming PC Needs a Lexar SSD
Gone are the days of staring at loading screens forever. A good SSD drastically cuts down load times for games, applications, and your operating system. Modern games are massive, and their assets load much faster from an SSD, leading to a much more seamless and immersive gaming session. Lexar SSDs offer a fantastic blend of speed, durability, and value, making them a smart choice for any gamer looking to boost their rig.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
This 2TB NM790 is a powerhouse for PC gamers and creators alike, offering cutting-edge PCIe Gen4 speeds that will absolutely transform your gaming experience. If you’re looking for the Lexar best amount of SSD for gaming that combines high capacity with blistering performance, this internal drive is a phenomenal choice. Its exceptional read and write speeds mean game levels load in a flash, textures pop instantly, and your entire system feels snappier. Plus, it’s designed with power efficiency in mind, making it a smart upgrade for any high-performance setup, including a PlayStation 5.
- Key Features:
- [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1500TBW endurance rating
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer speeds
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen4 speeds drastically reduce load times.
- Large 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries.
- Excellent power efficiency for sustained performance.
- PS5 compatible, great for console storage expansion.
- High endurance rating ensures longevity.
- Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard to reach full speeds.
- No integrated heatsink (though it’s power-efficient).
- User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise its incredible speed and how it breathes new life into their systems. Many highlight its seamless integration with both PC builds and the PS5, noting significantly improved load times.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
Take everything great about the NM790 2TB, and add an integrated heatsink – that’s what this variant offers. For serious gamers pushing their systems to the limit, especially in compact builds or during intense, long gaming sessions, a heatsink is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and preventing thermal throttling. This version ensures your drive stays cool under pressure, letting you enjoy those incredible Gen4 speeds consistently without breaking a sweat. It’s truly a top contender if you’re deliberating the Lexar best amount of SSD for gaming that prioritizes both speed and sustained performance.
- Key Features:
- [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1500TBW endurance rating
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool for better performance
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer speeds
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Integrated heatsink for superior thermal management and sustained speed.
- High 2TB capacity for extensive game and media storage.
- Blazing-fast Gen4 read/write speeds.
- Power-efficient design.
- PS5 ready with the essential heatsink.
- Cons:
- Might be slightly thicker due to the heatsink, so check clearance in very tight builds.
- User Impressions: Users love the peace of mind the heatsink provides, especially for high-demand tasks and console expansion. They report consistent top-tier performance without any thermal issues.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If 2TB is more than you currently need but you still crave that elite Gen4 speed, the 1TB NM790 is your answer. It delivers the same phenomenal read and write speeds as its larger sibling, ensuring your games load at lightning pace and your system feels incredibly responsive. This capacity is perfect for gamers who want to install several AAA titles and still have plenty of room for other applications, all while enjoying the efficiency and reliability Lexar is known for. It’s a fantastic sweet spot for many gamers looking for a high-performance internal upgrade without overspending on capacity.
- Key Features:
- [1TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1000TBW endurance rating
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer speeds
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Incredibly fast Gen4 performance for rapid game loading.
- Generous 1TB capacity for a solid game library.
- Excellent power efficiency.
- Compatible with PS5.
- Great value for performance.
- Cons:
- No integrated heatsink.
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 slot for maximum performance.
- User Impressions: Reviewers are thrilled with the speed increase over older drives and find 1TB to be a very practical capacity for their gaming and daily needs, especially given the competitive price point.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
While designed with content creators in mind, the blazing-fast performance and unique hub functionality of the Professional Go Portable SSD make it an interesting option for gamers too. Imagine carrying your essential games and game captures with you, and then having a built-in hub to connect other peripherals. Its rugged, compact design means you can take your game library wherever you go, and its speed is more than enough for playing certain titles directly off the drive or rapidly transferring large game files between systems. This is an innovative solution for those seeking portability and versatility.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact, portable design
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector with built-in four USB Type-C ports
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Ready for travel: dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Supports Apple ProRes footage recording
- Includes adapters and cables for ultimate flexibility
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Exceptional portability and rugged durability.
- Integrated USB Type-C hub adds immense versatility.
- Fast transfer speeds suitable for many games and data.
- Excellent for mobile creators and tech-savvy gamers on the move.
- Cons:
- Not as fast as internal NVMe Gen4 drives for cutting-edge gaming.
- The hub feature might be overkill for some purely gaming-focused users.
- User Impressions: Users praise its robust build and the convenience of the integrated hub, finding it incredibly useful for travel and managing multiple devices. Its speed is highly appreciated for quick transfers.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
The Lexar ES3 is a sleek, pocket-friendly external SSD that brings fast storage to a wide array of devices, including your gaming consoles like the PS4, PS5, and Xbox X|S. With 1TB of space and impressive USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, it’s perfect for offloading your game library, taking your saves with you, or even running backward-compatible games directly from the drive on your console. Its durable metal design and included encryption software make it a reliable and secure companion for gaming on the go or expanding your console storage.
- Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2)
- Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming consoles
- Thin, stylish, and durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick)
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software for file protection
- Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and portability.
- Broad compatibility, ideal for console gamers needing extra space.
- Robust and stylish metal design.
- Data encryption adds a layer of security.
- Cons:
- Performance may be lower on systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Not MagSafe compatible in this version.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate its compact size and quick transfer speeds, making it ideal for managing large media files and expanding console game storage. The robust build is frequently mentioned.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
If you need serious speed in a portable package, the Lexar 2TB SL500 is a standout. With USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance reaching up to 2000MB/s, this drive is exceptionally fast for an external solution, making it fantastic for quickly moving massive game files, recording high-quality gameplay footage, or even running demanding games that benefit from high I/O. Its thin, durable metal design is matched by smart thermal control, ensuring consistent performance even during heavy use. This is an excellent choice for console gamers who want a premium external drive for their extensive game libraries.
- Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
- Wide compatibility (mobile, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5)
- Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Outstanding external speeds for rapid transfers and demanding tasks.
- Large 2TB capacity for extensive game collections.
- Excellent thermal management for sustained high performance.
- Highly portable and durable.
- Broad device compatibility, including current-gen consoles.
- Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speed, which isn’t universally available yet.
- User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by its lightning-fast transfer rates and sleek, robust design. Console gamers particularly highlight its seamless integration and ability to significantly expand storage for a vast game library.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
For those who desire the incredible speed and features of the Lexar SL500 but prefer a more manageable 1TB capacity, this version is perfect. It offers the same top-tier USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s, ensuring your files transfer in a flash and your games load without a hitch. The sleek, durable design and advanced thermal control are all here, making it an excellent portable solution for gamers who need fast, reliable external storage without committing to a larger 2TB drive. It’s an ideal balance of performance, portability, and capacity for many users.
- Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
- Wide compatibility (mobile, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5)
- Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Exceptional external transfer speeds.
- Convenient 1TB capacity for many use cases.
- Robust thermal control ensures consistent performance.
- Highly portable and durable.
- Broad device compatibility, including consoles.
- Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for peak performance.
- User Impressions: Customers love the speed and compact nature of this drive. It’s a popular choice for mobile content creators and gamers who want a fast, reliable, and portable way to store and access their data.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Expanding on the versatility of its 1TB counterpart, the 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub provides even more storage for gamers and professionals who need ample space alongside advanced connectivity. This drive is perfect for those with massive game libraries they want to transport, or for streamers who need to offload large video files quickly. The built-in USB-C hub is a game-changer for reducing cable clutter and expanding connectivity options on the go, making it a highly adaptable piece of kit for anyone juggling multiple devices and large data needs.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact, portable design
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector with built-in four USB Type-C ports
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Ready for travel: dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices is currently in progress
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Massive 2TB capacity for extensive game collections and media.
- Integrated USB Type-C hub for enhanced connectivity.
- Rugged and durable for travel.
- Fast enough for portable gaming and rapid file transfers.
- Versatile for both creative work and gaming.
- Cons:
- Performance is not on par with internal NVMe Gen4 drives.
- Hub might be extra for users only seeking storage.
- User Impressions: Users value the large storage capacity combined with the innovative hub feature, making it a highly convenient and efficient tool for work and play while on the move. Its durability is a commonly praised aspect.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid
For gamers or users still rocking an older PC with a traditional hard drive, the Lexar 256GB NS100 is an incredibly cost-effective and noticeable upgrade. While it won’t offer the blistering speeds of NVMe Gen4 drives, its SATA III speeds are dramatically faster than any HDD, translating to quicker boot times, faster game loads (especially for older titles), and snappier application responses. It’s an excellent entry-level option for breathing new life into an aging system or for use as a dedicated boot drive, improving overall system responsiveness significantly without breaking the bank.
- Key Features:
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
- Sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s
- Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- [256GB] 120TBW endurance rating
- Three-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Significant performance upgrade over traditional HDDs.
- Extremely budget-friendly.
- SATA III compatibility makes it suitable for almost all older PCs.
- Durable and reliable with no moving parts.
- Cons:
- Limited 256GB capacity, primarily for OS and a few smaller games.
- Much slower than NVMe SSDs, especially Gen4.
- Shorter warranty period than higher-end Lexar drives.
- User Impressions: Users report huge improvements in boot times and general system snappiness when replacing an HDD. It’s a popular choice for revitalizing older laptops and desktops on a tight budget.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The Lexar 1TB ES5 is a sleek and innovative external SSD designed for modern mobile users and gamers, featuring a unique MagSafe-compatible design and a robust IP65 rating for dust and water resistance. With blazing USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds of up to 2000MB/s, it’s perfect for quickly transferring large game files, recording high-resolution video directly from your smartphone, or using it as a high-speed external drive for consoles. Its magnetic attachment and durable liquid silicone build make it incredibly convenient and resilient for any adventure, gaming or otherwise.
- Key Features:
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- MagSafe-compatible design with an additional metal ring accessory for any device
- Supports recording in Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS, and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
- Includes free access to the Lexar App for auto backup
- Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 3M
- Thin and stylish liquid silicone build with comfortable grip and cable organizer/lanyard
- Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures
- Pros:
- Extremely fast external transfer speeds.
- Innovative MagSafe compatibility for mobile devices.
- Highly durable with IP65 rating and drop resistance.
- Excellent thermal management.
- Great for mobile gaming and content creation on the go.
- Cons:
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for full speed.
- MagSafe feature is specific to compatible devices.
- User Impressions: Users are highly impressed by its speed and robustness. The magnetic attachment is a standout feature for mobile device users, and its overall premium feel and performance receive high marks.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Choosing Your Lexar Gaming SSD
Q1: What is the ideal Lexar SSD capacity for gaming?
A1: For most modern gamers, 1TB is a great starting point for the operating system and a decent library of AAA titles. If you play many large games or stream, 2TB (like the Lexar NM790 2TB) is highly recommended for future-proofing your setup and avoiding constant game uninstalls. For console expansion, 1TB or 2TB external SSDs are also excellent.
Q2: Is NVMe essential for a gaming SSD?
A2: Yes, absolutely! NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs, especially those using PCIe Gen4 like the Lexar NM790 series, offer significantly faster speeds than older SATA SSDs. This translates to vastly quicker game load times, seamless texture streaming, and an overall smoother gaming experience, especially for demanding modern titles.
Q3: Can Lexar portable SSDs be used for console gaming (PS5/Xbox)?
A3: Many Lexar portable SSDs, like the ES3 and SL500 series, are explicitly compatible with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. While PS5 games must generally run from the internal NVMe drive, you can store and transfer them on an external drive. You can also play PS4 games directly from an external drive on the PS5, and many Xbox games can run from compatible external drives.
Q4: What’s the difference between an internal and external Lexar SSD for gaming?
A4: Internal SSDs (like the NM790 series) typically offer the fastest performance, especially NVMe PCIe Gen4 drives, and are installed directly into your PC’s motherboard or console’s expansion slot. External SSDs (like the SL500 or ES3) connect via USB and offer portability, allowing you to carry your games or use them for console storage expansion. Internal drives are usually preferred for the primary OS and most demanding games on PC.
Q5: Do I need a heatsink on my Lexar gaming SSD?
A5: For high-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs, a heatsink is highly recommended, especially if your PC has limited airflow or you engage in sustained, heavy gaming sessions. Drives like the Lexar 2TB NM790 with Heatsink help dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring consistent peak performance over time.
Q6: How does TBW (Terabytes Written) relate to a Lexar SSD’s lifespan for gaming?
A6: TBW indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the SSD over its lifetime before its reliability may diminish. For gaming, even with frequent game installs and updates, typical gamers rarely hit these limits. A 1000TBW rating (like the Lexar 1TB NM790) is extremely generous and ensures many years of heavy gaming use. Higher TBW ratings generally mean greater endurance.
Q7: What are the benefits of upgrading to a Lexar SSD for gaming?
A7: Upgrading to a Lexar SSD offers numerous benefits: drastically reduced game load times, faster operating system boot-ups, quicker application launches, smoother in-game performance (less stuttering from asset loading), and enhanced overall system responsiveness. Lexar also provides reliable performance and strong warranties, making it a valuable investment for any gamer.
Conclusion
Choosing the Lexar best amount of SSD for gaming ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and platform. Whether you’re building a high-end PC, upgrading an older system, or expanding your console’s storage, Lexar offers a diverse range of SSDs that deliver on speed, reliability, and value. From the blazing-fast internal NVMe Gen4 drives like the NM790 series to the versatile and durable portable SL500 and ES3 models, there’s a Lexar SSD designed to elevate your gaming experience. Don’t settle for slow load times – make the switch and immerse yourself fully in your favorite titles!