Tired of staring at loading screens longer than you’re actually playing? In the fast-paced world of PC and console gaming, the difference between victory and frustration often comes down to speed. And when we talk about speed, we’re talking about your storage. A top-tier Solid State Drive (SSD) can drastically cut down load times, make your games feel snappier, and even improve overall system responsiveness. That’s why choosing the right SSD is crucial for any serious gamer.
Lexar has been a trusted name in flash memory for years, offering a range of high-performance SSDs that cater to various needs, from blazing-fast internal drives for your gaming rig to robust portable options for gaming on the go or expanding console storage. But with so many choices, how do you pick the Lexar best SSD for gaming that’s right for you? We’ve sifted through their impressive lineup to bring you 10 standout Lexar SSDs that are perfect for upping your game. Let’s dive in!
1. Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
If you’re building a cutting-edge gaming PC or upgrading an existing high-end system, the Lexar NM1090 PRO is a game-changer. This beast leverages the latest PCIe Gen5 technology to deliver unprecedented speeds, making slow loading screens a relic of the past. It’s perfect for gamers who demand the absolute best and want to future-proof their setup, especially with titles optimized for Microsoft DirectStorage, ensuring your gaming experience is as smooth and instant as possible.
- PCIe 5.0 technology with read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s
- Accelerates load times by 200%, great for AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 platforms
- 6nm controller optimizes heat control for consistent performance
- Ideal for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks and accelerating data processing
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache boost data transfer and system responsiveness
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for enhanced game loads and CPU conservation
Pros:
– Unrivaled Gen5 speeds for ultimate performance
– Future-proof technology for next-gen gaming
– Excellent thermal management
– Significantly improves game loading and overall system fluidity
– Large 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries
Cons:
– Requires a compatible PCIe Gen5 motherboard (newer systems)
– Premium price point
User Impressions: Gamers who’ve adopted this drive often rave about the mind-blowing speed increase, noting how quickly games load and how seamlessly large files transfer. Many feel it’s a worthwhile investment for a truly high-end gaming setup.
2. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
For many gamers, the Lexar NM790 with a heatsink strikes a perfect balance between top-tier performance and value. This PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD delivers exceptional speeds that are twice as fast as Gen3 drives, ensuring your games load incredibly quickly. The integrated heatsink is a massive plus, actively keeping temperatures in check during intense gaming sessions, which means no thermal throttling and consistently smooth gameplay. It’s also a fantastic pick for PlayStation 5 owners looking to expand their console’s storage.
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Designed with a heatsink for optimal cooling and power efficiency
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth transfer speeds
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Blazing-fast Gen4 speeds
– Integrated heatsink prevents thermal throttling
– Great power efficiency
– PS5 compatible for console gamers
– Excellent price-to-performance ratio
Cons:
– Not as fast as Gen5 drives (but still incredibly quick)
– Heatsink might not fit all laptop configurations
User Impressions: PS5 users particularly love this drive for its easy installation and dramatic improvement in game load times. PC gamers appreciate the robust performance and the peace of mind offered by the built-in heatsink.
3. Lexar 4TB Armor 700 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
The Lexar Armor 700 is more than just a portable drive; it’s a rugged, high-speed storage solution for gamers and creators on the move. With 4TB of space, you can carry a massive game library or tons of 4K footage. Its impressive 2000MB/s speeds make it ideal for running games directly from the drive on compatible consoles or PCs, and its IP66 rating means it can handle the bumps and splashes of everyday life or even extreme environments. Plus, it supports Apple Pro Res recording for iPhone 15 Pro users!
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write
- IP66 rated for water and dust protection; withstands 3-meter drops
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording for iPhone 15 Pro/Max
- Unique Thermal Control Design maintains optimal temperatures
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16, cameras, gaming consoles
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption
- Comes with a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable
- Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Massive 4TB capacity
– Extremely fast for a portable SSD
– Highly durable with IP66 rating and drop resistance
– Versatile compatibility across many devices, including gaming consoles
– Excellent for travel and outdoor use
– Data security features
Cons:
– USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 requires compatible port for full speed
– Portable design might be overkill for purely internal use
User Impressions: Users love its robust build quality and impressive speeds, often highlighting its utility for backing up large game files or even running games directly on consoles like Xbox or PS5. Its compact size is also frequently praised.
4. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
This 1TB version of the Lexar NM790 offers all the incredible performance benefits of its larger siblings but in a more budget-friendly capacity. It’s still an absolute powerhouse for gaming, providing twice the speed of older Gen3 drives and ensuring your operating system, frequently played games, and applications load in a flash. Its single-sided design makes it particularly well-suited for laptops, where space can be at a premium, without sacrificing an ounce of performance.
- [1TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1000TBW
- 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 smooth 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:
– Outstanding Gen4 speeds for rapid game loading
– Energy-efficient design
– Compact, single-sided perfect for laptops
– PS5 compatibility
– More affordable entry into high-performance NVMe
Cons:
– 1TB might be limiting for very large game libraries
– Does not include an integrated heatsink
User Impressions: Laptop users are thrilled with the upgrade, reporting significantly faster boot times and game loads. Many consider it a strong contender for the Lexar best SSD for gaming in a portable setup due to its efficiency and form factor.
5. Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
Similar to its 4TB counterpart, the 2TB Lexar Armor 700 Portable SSD brings robust speed and durability to your gaming adventures, just with a slightly more compact capacity. It’s the ideal choice if you need fast, secure, and incredibly tough external storage for your Xbox, PlayStation, or PC, but don’t quite need 4TB. Its rugged build and impressive read/write speeds make it an excellent companion for gamers who travel or simply want extra, resilient storage for their digital worlds.
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write
- IP66 rated for water and dust protection; withstands 3-meter drops
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording for iPhone 15 Pro/Max
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16, cameras, gaming consoles
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption
- Comes with a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable
- Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Excellent 2TB capacity for a portable drive
– Extremely fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds
– Highly durable and rugged for active lifestyles
– Versatile compatibility with gaming consoles and mobile devices
– Thermal control design for consistent performance
Cons:
– Full speed requires a compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port
– A bit pricier than standard portable SSDs due to features
User Impressions: This drive is a hit with console gamers needing reliable external storage that can keep up with modern titles. Users frequently mention its build quality and how well it performs even when moved between different systems.
6. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
The 2TB Lexar NM790 is a fantastic choice for the majority of PC and PS5 gamers seeking a significant performance upgrade without breaking the bank. With its generous 2TB capacity, you’ll have ample room for a large collection of AAA titles, and its PCIe Gen4 speeds will ensure they load at lightning pace. This drive is particularly noted for its power efficiency, making it a smart choice for both desktop builds and power-conscious gaming laptops.
- [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW
- 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 smooth 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:
– Excellent 2TB capacity for modern game libraries
– Blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds
– High power efficiency, good for laptops
– PS5 compatible for expanded console storage
– Great value for performance
Cons:
– Lacks an integrated heatsink (though one can be added)
– Not the absolute fastest on the market (Gen5 takes that crown)
User Impressions: This 2TB NM790 is often cited by users as a sweet spot for performance and capacity. Many find it dramatically improves their gaming experience on both PC and PS5, reducing load times to mere seconds.
7. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with a built-in hub is a unique and incredibly versatile solution, especially for gamers who are also content creators or streamers. Not only does it offer fast portable storage for games and media, but the integrated four-port USB Type-C hub expands connectivity, which can be super handy for connecting accessories or other devices on the fly. Its robust build and compact design make it ready for anything, from a casual gaming session on a laptop to a demanding content creation project.
- Ultra-compact design for portability
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector
- Captures brilliant Apple ProRes footage
- Integrated four-port USB Type-C hub with adapters and cables
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress
- Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Unique integrated USB-C hub for enhanced connectivity
– Compact and ultra-portable
– Fast enough for running many games externally
– Highly durable with IP65 rating and drop resistance
– Great for creators needing on-the-go storage and ports
Cons:
– 1TB might be limiting for extensive game libraries
– Not as fast as internal NVMe drives or Gen 2×2 portable SSDs
– Type-C connector needs a firm press for proper insertion
User Impressions: Users appreciate the innovation of the integrated hub, finding it incredibly useful for simplifying their portable setups. The drive’s robustness and decent speeds also receive positive feedback, especially from those who travel frequently.
8. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
For those seeking a straightforward, reliable, and highly portable external SSD without the bells and whistles, the Lexar ES3 is an excellent choice. This slim and stylish drive offers solid USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, making it great for expanding storage on your PS5, Xbox, laptop, or even your iPhone 15 series. It’s incredibly light and thin, easily slipping into a pocket, making it super convenient for carrying your games or essential files wherever you go.
- High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, durable metal design; weighs 42g, 10.5mm thick
- Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
Pros:
– Very compact and lightweight design
– Good USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds for external gaming
– Broad compatibility across various devices
– Durable metal casing
– Includes data encryption for security
Cons:
– 1TB capacity may fill up quickly for serious gamers
– Performance may be lower if device doesn’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2
– Not as rugged as the Armor series
User Impressions: Customers love the ES3 for its sleek design and portability, often using it to carry games between different systems or to quickly offload footage from cameras. The plug-and-play convenience is a frequently praised feature.
9. Lexar 4TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If the 2TB NM1090 PRO caught your eye but you need even more space for your ever-growing game library, then the 4TB version is your ultimate solution. This drive is pure luxury for gamers, offering not only the cutting-edge PCIe Gen5 speeds but also a massive 4TB capacity. It means you can install virtually every AAA title you own and still have room for more, all while benefiting from virtually instant load times and the smoothest possible gaming performance. This is truly the Lexar best SSD for gaming if you prioritize both speed and capacity.
- PCIe 5.0 technology delivers blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s
- Accelerates load times by 200%, great for AMD Ryzen and Intel i9
- 6nm controller optimizes heat control for smoother, more efficient performance
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs: reduces bottlenecks, accelerates AI model training
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads, minimize delays
Pros:
– Top-of-the-line Gen5 speeds
– Massive 4TB capacity for an extensive game collection
– Excellent thermal management and power efficiency
– Future-proof technology for years of high-end gaming
– Dramatically improves game loading and overall system responsiveness
Cons:
– Requires a compatible PCIe Gen5 motherboard
– Highest price point among Lexar SSDs
User Impressions: Users with high-end PCs often describe this drive as transformative, especially when playing graphically intensive games. The combination of colossal storage and unmatched speed makes it a favorite for those building their dream gaming rigs.
10. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
The 2TB Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with its integrated hub offers the same incredible versatility as the 1TB model, but with double the storage capacity. This means more games, more recorded footage, and more files to carry with you. It’s an ideal portable storage solution for gamers who also dabble in creative work, providing robust speeds, excellent durability, and the convenience of a built-in USB-C hub. It’s perfect for those who demand flexibility and performance in a compact, travel-ready package.
- Ultra-compact design for portability
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector
- Captures brilliant Apple ProRes footage
- Integrated four-port USB Type-C hub with adapters and cables
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress
- Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Generous 2TB capacity in a portable form factor
– Unique integrated USB-C hub for expanded connectivity
– Fast enough for running many games externally
– Highly durable with IP65 rating and drop resistance
– Excellent for hybrid gamer-creators on the go
Cons:
– Not as fast as internal NVMe drives or Gen 2×2 portable SSDs
– Integrated hub adds to the price
– Type-C connector needs a firm press for proper insertion
User Impressions: This 2TB version is a hit with professionals and gamers alike who need both space and connectivity. They often praise its robust construction and the practical advantage of having extra USB-C ports built right into the drive.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lexar SSDs for Gaming
Q1: Why should I upgrade to an SSD for gaming?
A1: Upgrading to an SSD (Solid State Drive) for gaming dramatically improves game load times, reduces stuttering, and makes your entire system feel snappier. Unlike traditional HDDs, SSDs have no moving parts, allowing for much faster data access, which translates directly to a smoother and more responsive gaming experience.
Q2: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 NVMe SSDs?
A2: PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSDs are the latest generation, offering significantly higher theoretical maximum speeds (e.g., up to 14,000 MB/s read) compared to PCIe Gen4 (e.g., up to 7,400 MB/s read). Gen5 drives are future-proof and ideal for the absolute bleeding edge of gaming and professional workloads, while Gen4 still offers incredible performance that’s more than sufficient for most current gaming needs. You’ll need a motherboard and CPU that support the specific PCIe generation to utilize its full potential.
Q3: Is an internal or external Lexar SSD better for gaming?
A3: For your main gaming drive, an internal NVMe M.2 SSD (like the Lexar NM790 or NM1090 PRO) is generally preferred due to its direct connection to the motherboard, offering the highest possible speeds. External SSDs (like the Lexar Armor 700 or ES3) are fantastic for expanding console storage, running games on the go, or backing up your game library, but typically won’t match the peak performance of a high-end internal drive due to USB interface limitations.
Q4: Do I need a heatsink on my Lexar NVMe SSD for gaming?
A4: For high-performance PCIe Gen4 and especially Gen5 NVMe SSDs, a heatsink is highly recommended, particularly if you’re gaming for extended periods or transferring large files. Modern NVMe drives can generate a lot of heat, and a heatsink helps dissipate this heat, preventing thermal throttling which can slow down your drive’s performance. Many Lexar drives, like the NM790 with Heatsink, come with one pre-installed for convenience.
Q5: Will a Lexar SSD improve my frame rate in games?
A5: While an SSD primarily impacts loading times and overall system responsiveness, it generally doesn’t directly increase your frame rate (FPS). That’s more dependent on your CPU and GPU. However, in games that stream assets directly from storage (like those utilizing Microsoft DirectStorage), a fast SSD can reduce stutters, minimize asset pop-in, and ensure smoother gameplay, indirectly contributing to a better perceived frame rate.
Q6: Are Lexar portable SSDs compatible with PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X|S?
A6: Yes, many Lexar portable SSDs, like the Armor 700 and ES3, are compatible with both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. You can store and play backward-compatible games directly from them. For current-gen PS5/Xbox Series X|S games, you can store them on the external drive and then transfer them to the internal NVMe SSD (for PS5) or an official expansion card (for Xbox) when you want to play them, saving you download time. Internal Lexar NVMe drives like the NM790 and NM1090 PRO are also fully compatible with PS5 for direct gameplay.
Q7: How much SSD storage do I need for gaming?
A7: For modern gaming, 1TB is a good starting point, allowing you to install several large AAA titles. However, with game sizes continually growing, 2TB is quickly becoming the sweet spot for many gamers, providing ample space for a diverse library. If you’re a hardcore gamer with a massive collection or plan to install many large games, 4TB or more is ideal.
Finding Your Ultimate Lexar Gaming SSD
Whether you’re looking for the mind-blowing speeds of PCIe Gen5, the balanced performance of a Gen4 workhorse, or a rugged portable drive for gaming on the go, Lexar has an SSD to fit your needs. Choosing the Lexar best SSD for gaming depends on your specific setup, budget, and how you play. No matter your choice, upgrading to a Lexar SSD will undoubtedly give your gaming experience the performance boost it deserves, making those loading screens a distant memory and keeping you immersed in the action!