Are you on the hunt for a reliable, speedy, and cost-effective storage solution? When it comes to digital storage, a 1TB SSD offers that sweet spot of ample space for most users without breaking the bank. And if you’re looking specifically for value and performance, Lexar often comes to mind. With a history of producing quality memory products, Lexar has a wide range of SSDs that cater to different needs, from internal drives for your gaming rig to ultra-portable options for on-the-go creators.
But with so many choices, how do you find the Lexar best 1TB SSD for money? We’ve delved into Lexar’s extensive lineup to bring you the top contenders, evaluating their speed, features, durability, and overall value. Whether you’re upgrading your PC, needing fast external storage for your iPhone, or boosting your PS5’s capacity, we’ve got something for you. Let’s explore these fantastic 1TB SSD options and help you make an informed decision.
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a mobile workstation in your pocket, designed for the modern creator who needs flexibility and blazing-fast performance. What truly sets the Professional Go apart is its integrated hub, transforming a simple storage device into a versatile tool for spontaneous creativity, letting you connect multiple peripherals and expanding your setup on the fly. Its robust build means it’s ready for the rigors of travel, ensuring your precious footage and files are safe wherever your adventures take you. If you’re a content creator or professional constantly on the move, this could easily be the Lexar best 1TB SSD for money for your specific workflow.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensure firm insertion).
- Supports Apple ProRes footage capture.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, adapters, and cables.
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write.
- IP65 dust and water-resistant, 1-meter drop-resistant.
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series in progress.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with built-in hub.
- Excellent speeds for demanding tasks like 4K recording.
- Highly durable and travel-ready.
- Great for professional content creators.
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Cons:
- The “wireless plug-and-play” refers to a direct Type-C connection, not actual wireless data transfer.
- Higher price point due to integrated hub features.
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User Impressions: Users love the convenience of the integrated hub and its robust design. It’s frequently praised by videographers and photographers for streamlining their on-location workflow, though some wish the direct Type-C connection felt more secure.
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD
When you need a sleek, reliable, and incredibly portable external drive, the Lexar ES3 1TB SSD steps up. This little powerhouse offers impressive speeds in a package smaller than a credit card, making it an ideal companion for anyone who needs to carry their data without bulk. Its wide compatibility and included encryption software add layers of convenience and security, making it a fantastic all-rounder for everyday storage and quick transfers.
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Key Features:
- High-speed data transfer: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Wide compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
- Thin, stylish, and durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick).
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software.
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Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- Good performance for general use and gaming.
- Broad device compatibility.
- Enhanced data security with encryption.
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Cons:
- Performance depends on host device’s USB 3.2 Gen 2 support.
- MagSafe not available in this version.
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User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight its compact size and speedy transfers as major selling points. Many appreciate its compatibility with various devices, making it a versatile choice for both work and entertainment.
Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
The Lexar ES5 Magnetic External SSD takes portable storage to the next level, especially for smartphone users. With blistering speeds up to 2000MB/s, direct Apple ProRes recording support, and an innovative MagSafe-compatible design, this drive is a content creator’s dream. Attach it directly to your iPhone for seamless high-quality video capture, or use the included metal ring to add magnetic capability to any device. Its rugged durability and thermal control design ensure peak performance even during intense recording sessions.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast speeds: up to 2000MB/s read and write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2).
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to smartphones.
- Supports Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
- Free access to Lexar App for auto backup and storage expansion.
- IP65 dust and water-resistant, 3M drop-resistant.
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with cable organizer/lanyard.
- Thermal control design for optimal performance.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for professional video recording.
- Innovative magnetic attachment for mobile devices.
- Extremely durable and protected against elements.
- Useful Lexar App for mobile device management.
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Cons:
- Full speed requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, not universally available.
- Magnetic attachment might not be preferred by all users.
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User Impressions: Mobile videographers absolutely rave about the ES5’s ability to record high-quality footage directly from their phones, praising its speed and the convenience of the magnetic attachment. Its ruggedness also provides peace of mind.
Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is a champion of speed and slim design, offering incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance in a package that’s both stylish and durable. If you need lightning-fast transfers for large files, professional media, or gaming, this drive delivers without compromise. Its robust metal design and smart thermal control ensure reliability, while broad compatibility means it’s ready for almost any device you throw at it. For those who prioritize raw speed in a portable form factor, the SL500 represents serious value.
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Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: up to 2000MB/s read, 1800MB/s write.
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design.
- Supports Apple ProRes recording up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max.
- Wide compatibility: mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
- Unique Thermal Control Design for sustained high performance.
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Outstanding transfer speeds for a portable drive.
- Very slim and aesthetically pleasing.
- Excellent thermal management.
- Strong compatibility and data encryption.
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Cons:
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 to achieve maximum stated speeds.
- Might be overkill for users who don’t need top-tier portable performance.
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User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight the SL500’s incredible speed, often noting how quickly large video files or games transfer. Its sleek profile and cool operation are also frequently praised, making it a favorite for professionals and power users alike.
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
For PC builders, gamers, and workstation users, the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is a standout internal NVMe SSD. Delivering exceptional PCIe Gen4 speeds up to 7400MB/s read, this drive is a powerhouse for reducing load times, accelerating applications, and ensuring smooth gameplay. The integrated heatsink is a crucial addition, keeping temperatures in check during intensive operations, which is vital for sustained performance and longevity. It’s also fully compatible with the PlayStation 5, offering a significant upgrade for console gamers. If you’re building a new system or upgrading a PS5, this could very well be the Lexar best 1TB SSD for money you can get for raw internal performance.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1000TBW.
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs.
- Integrated 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 smoother transfer speeds.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds.
- Effective built-in heatsink for thermal management.
- Power-efficient operation.
- Excellent for gaming and demanding applications.
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Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard/device to reach full speed.
- Heatsink might be too tall for some ultra-compact laptop designs (though primarily for desktops/PS5).
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User Impressions: Gamers and PC enthusiasts frequently praise the NM790 for its incredible speed boosts in game loading and application responsiveness. The included heatsink is a big plus for sustained performance, especially within a PS5 or a well-ventilated PC case.
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you need the raw speed of a PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD without the bulk of a heatsink, the standard Lexar NM790 is an excellent choice. This internal drive offers identical blistering performance to its heatsink-equipped sibling, making it perfect for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators who demand top-tier speed. Its single-sided design makes it especially suitable for laptops where space is at a premium, allowing you to supercharge your portable workstation or gaming laptop.
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Key Features:
- 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 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.
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Pros:
- Top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance.
- Energy-efficient design.
- Ideal for space-constrained devices like laptops.
- Excellent value for internal storage.
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Cons:
- No included heatsink, so users need to ensure adequate cooling in their system.
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard/device.
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User Impressions: Laptop users particularly appreciate the single-sided design and the massive speed upgrade this drive provides. Gamers and creators on desktops often pair it with aftermarket heatsinks for optimal thermal management, loving the sheer performance boost it offers.
Lexar 1TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
For those looking to breathe new life into an older desktop or laptop, the Lexar NS100 2.5 Inch SATA III SSD is your go-to. While not as fast as NVMe drives, it offers a dramatic speed increase over traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) for a fraction of the cost of a new system. It’s incredibly reliable, silent, and shock-resistant, making it a perfect, affordable upgrade for faster startups, quicker application loads, and overall snappier performance. This is perhaps the quintessential Lexar best 1TB SSD for money for general system upgrades.
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Key Features:
- Upgrade for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads.
- Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s.
- Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives.
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts.
- [1TB] 480TBW.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Significant performance boost over HDDs.
- Excellent value for a system upgrade.
- High reliability and durability.
- Broad compatibility with older systems (SATA III).
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe SSDs.
- Form factor (2.5-inch) might require an adapter for some desktop cases.
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User Impressions: Users upgrading from HDDs consistently report a “night and day” difference in system responsiveness. It’s highly praised for its affordability, ease of installation, and the noticeable improvement it brings to older computers.
Lexar 1TB NQ780 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
The Lexar NQ780 SSD delivers solid PCIe Gen4 performance, striking a great balance between speed and efficiency. It’s designed for fast gameplay and quick boot-ups, leveraging an 8-channel Gen 4 controller with HMB and SLC cache technologies for sustained performance and reduced latency. Its single-sided design and Intelligent Power Control make it particularly suitable for laptops, offering a powerful upgrade without sacrificing battery life. The included Lexar DiskMaster SSD Management tool is a nice touch for monitoring and maintaining drive health.
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Key Features:
- Read/write speeds up to 6500/2500 MB/s.
- High-quality 8-channel Gen 4 controller for sustained write performance.
- HMB and SLC cache technologies improve performance and reduce latency.
- Great for laptops with its single-sided design and Intelligent Power Control.
- Lexar DiskMaster SSD Management tool for firmware updates, data management, and health monitoring.
- A 5-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Good balance of speed and efficiency for PCIe Gen4.
- Excellent for both gaming and everyday tasks.
- Laptop-friendly design and power control.
- Useful management software.
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Cons:
- Write speeds are lower than some top-tier Gen4 drives (e.g., NM790).
- Not as fast as Gen 5 SSDs, but more affordable.
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User Impressions: Users find the NQ780 to be a very capable and reliable drive, especially for upgrading gaming laptops. The improvements in load times and overall system snappiness are frequently highlighted, and the management software is a welcome addition.
Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD (Also Available in 1TB)
While this is a 2TB model, the Lexar ES3 External SSD series is also available in 1TB and embodies fantastic value for portable storage. Offering speeds up to 1050MB/s, it’s 9.5 times faster than traditional hard drives, providing instant storage expansion and super-fast backups. Its robust build, including drop resistance and advanced heat dissipation, ensures your data is safe and the drive stays cool even under heavy use. Plus, the convenience of a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable and included encryption software makes it incredibly versatile and secure.
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Key Features:
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (9.5X faster than HDDs).
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion.
- Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation.
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and Lexar Recovery Tool.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for a portable drive.
- Very durable with heat dissipation and drop resistance.
- High compatibility with various devices.
- Added data protection and recovery tools.
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Cons:
- Performance depends on host device’s USB 3.2 Gen 2 support.
- Not as compact as some ultra-slim alternatives.
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User Impressions: The ES3 receives high marks for its consistent performance, especially when transferring large media files. Users appreciate its robust build quality and the peace of mind offered by the included encryption and recovery tools.
Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Stepping into the future, the Lexar NM1090 PRO is a true beast for cutting-edge systems. This PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD delivers absolutely blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s, accelerating load times by a staggering 200%. It’s designed for the most demanding users, from AI PCs needing to reduce bottlenecks to hardcore gamers craving instant game loads. With a powerful 6nm controller, DRAM Cache, and SLC Dynamic Cache, it promises unparalleled performance and system responsiveness. If you have a top-tier motherboard and want the absolute bleeding edge of speed, this is the Lexar best 1TB SSD for money for peak performance.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology with up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s read/write speeds.
- Accelerates load times by 200%.
- Powerful 6nm controller for optimized heat control.
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks.
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache for enhanced data transfer.
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for boosted game loads.
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Pros:
- Unmatched, industry-leading speeds (PCIe Gen5).
- Future-proof performance for demanding applications like AI and gaming.
- Excellent thermal optimization.
- Dramatically improves system responsiveness.
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Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen5 compatible motherboard, which is still quite new and expensive.
- Higher price point due to bleeding-edge technology.
- Likely needs an aggressive heatsink (often included with Gen5 motherboards) for sustained peak performance.
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User Impressions: Early adopters of Gen5 systems are blown away by the NM1090 PRO’s speed. Gamers report virtually instantaneous load times, and professionals working with massive datasets or AI models appreciate the significant reduction in processing bottlenecks. It’s seen as a premium investment for ultimate performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does “Lexar best 1TB SSD for money” actually mean?
A1: This phrase refers to finding a 1TB Lexar SSD that offers the optimal balance between performance, features, durability, and price. It’s about getting the most value for your investment, which can vary depending on your specific needs (e.g., portable, internal, gaming, professional).
Q2: What’s the difference between internal and external Lexar 1TB SSDs?
A2: Internal SSDs (like NVMe M.2 or SATA 2.5 inch) are installed directly inside your computer (desktop or laptop) or game console (like PS5) to be a primary storage drive. External SSDs connect via a USB cable and are portable, used for expanding storage, backups, or transferring files between devices.
Q3: Is a PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 NVMe SSD really necessary for most users?
A3: For everyday tasks, browsing, and light gaming, a good SATA or entry-level PCIe Gen3 NVMe SSD is perfectly sufficient. However, for hardcore gamers, content creators working with large 4K/8K video files, or professionals needing to run demanding applications, Gen4 and especially Gen5 NVMe SSDs offer significant speed advantages that can dramatically reduce load times and improve workflow efficiency.
Q4: What should I look for in a portable Lexar 1TB SSD?
A4: Consider speed (USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Gen 2×2 for faster transfers), durability (drop, dust, water resistance), compactness, and compatibility with your devices (PC, Mac, iPhone, Android). Features like encryption software or an integrated hub can also add significant value.
Q5: What does “TBW” mean for an SSD?
A5: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written.” It’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance, indicating how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it might start to degrade. Higher TBW means a longer expected lifespan, especially for heavy users.
Q6: Can Lexar 1TB SSDs be used with gaming consoles like the PS5?
A6: Yes, several Lexar 1TB NVMe M.2 SSDs (like the NM790 series) are specifically compatible with the PlayStation 5, allowing you to expand your console’s storage for more games and faster load times. Always check the specific product’s compatibility.
Q7: Why do some Lexar SSDs have a heatsink and others don’t?
A7: High-performance NVMe SSDs, especially PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 drives, can generate a lot of heat during intense operations. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring the drive maintains its peak performance. SSDs without a heatsink might rely on the system’s airflow or motherboard’s built-in cooling solutions, and are often found in laptops where space is limited.