Building a robust and responsive Network Attached Storage (NAS) system requires careful consideration of its core components, and the choice of solid-state drives (SSDs) is paramount. If you’re looking to boost your NAS’s performance, reliability, and speed, investing in high-quality SSDs is a no-brainer. While Lexar might be known for its consumer-grade storage, many of its drives, along with purpose-built NAS SSDs from brands like Western Digital, offer excellent capabilities that make them some of the Lexar best SSD drives for NAS setups, or at least highly competitive alternatives.
Why opt for SSDs in your NAS? Simply put, SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), leading to quicker file transfers, snappier application loading, and a more responsive overall user experience, especially for caching or demanding workloads like 4K video editing and database management. Their lack of moving parts also means less noise, lower power consumption, and improved durability, which is ideal for a 24/7 operational environment.
In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the best SSD options available from Lexar and Western Digital, exploring their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision for your home or business NAS. Let’s get started!
1. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read, Storage…
This Lexar ES3 external SSD is a fantastic choice if you need blazing-fast portable storage that can double as a quick backup or temporary storage expansion for your NAS, especially if your NAS supports USB 3.2 Gen 2. Its robust design and included encryption make it secure, while its speed means you won’t be waiting around for large file transfers. It’s a great companion for quickly moving data to or from your primary NAS storage.
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Key Features:
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, significantly faster than HDDs.
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion.
- Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for efficient heat dissipation.
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for enhanced durability.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and Lexar Recovery Tool.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast for an external drive.
- Excellent durability features (drop-resistant, heat dissipation).
- Broad compatibility with various devices.
- Data security with AES encryption.
- Portable and lightweight design.
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Cons:
- External form factor isn’t ideal for primary, permanent NAS internal storage.
- Dependent on the NAS’s USB port speed.
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User Impressions: Users love the ES3 for its incredible speed and portability, often praising its robust build quality. Many find it indispensable for quick data transfers and backups on the go or when temporarily expanding storage for devices like gaming consoles or even specific NAS tasks.
2. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
For creative professionals on the move, this Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD is a game-changer, but it also has unique applications for a NAS setup. While primarily an external drive, its hub functionality and rugged design mean it can serve as a versatile high-speed temporary capture or transfer device, especially for media content that will eventually reside on your NAS. Its IP65 rating provides peace of mind in challenging environments.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for full insertion).
- Supports Apple ProRes footage capture.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters/cables.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Dust-proof, water-resistant (IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent for media professionals and on-the-go content creation.
- Integrated hub adds significant versatility.
- Rugged build with IP65 rating and drop resistance.
- High read/write speeds for demanding tasks.
- Long warranty period.
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Cons:
- Wireless Type-C connector might require extra care during insertion.
- External drive not designed for continuous internal NAS operation.
- Premium price due to professional features and hub.
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User Impressions: Professionals rave about its ability to record ProRes directly and the convenience of the built-in hub. They appreciate the speed and ruggedness, making it a reliable tool for field work and quick offloads before transferring to a more permanent NAS solution.
3. Western Digital 1TB WD Red SA500 NAS 3D NAND Internal SSD…
Now, this is what we’re talking about for dedicated NAS performance! The WD Red SA500 is purpose-built for Network Attached Storage environments. Unlike general consumer SSDs, this drive is optimized for 24/7 operation, superior endurance, and caching capabilities within a NAS. If you’re serious about enhancing your NAS’s responsiveness for frequently accessed files or multi-user environments, this is one of the Lexar best SSD drives for NAS alternatives to seriously consider.
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Key Features:
- Storage optimized for caching in NAS systems.
- Superior endurance for heavy read/write loads in 24/7 environments.
- Purpose-built for NAS with proven Western Digital 3D NAND.
- Reduces latency and improves responsiveness for OLTP databases, multi-user environments, photo rendering, 4K/8K video editing.
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Pros:
- Designed specifically for NAS, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
- High endurance suitable for continuous operation.
- Improves NAS system responsiveness dramatically.
- Reliability backed by Western Digital’s reputation for NAS drives.
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Cons:
- SATA interface, so speeds won’t match NVMe drives (though often sufficient for NAS caching).
- Potentially higher cost than a general-purpose SSD for the same capacity.
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User Impressions: NAS enthusiasts and small business owners consistently praise the WD Red SA500 for its reliability and noticeable performance boost in their NAS units, especially for caching and improving overall system responsiveness. It’s often cited as a go-to choice for dependable NAS SSDs.
4. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD…
The 1TB version of the Lexar ES3 offers the same fantastic portability and speed as its 2TB sibling but at a potentially more accessible price point. Its thin, stylish metal design makes it incredibly easy to carry, and the USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds ensure you’re not bottlenecked when moving large amounts of data. This drive is perfect for quick backups of critical data before it hits your NAS or as a temporary expansion drive.
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Key Features:
- High-speed data transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Wide compatibility with iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox, PS4/PS5.
- Thin, stylish, and durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick).
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play.
- Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed, portability, and durability.
- Broad device compatibility, including newer mobile devices.
- Secure with AES encryption.
- Very lightweight and compact, smaller than a card.
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Cons:
- Not suitable as a primary, internal NAS drive.
- Performance can be lower if the host device doesn’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2.
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User Impressions: Customers love the compact size and solid build of the 1TB ES3. They frequently mention its lightning-fast transfer speeds for photos, videos, and game files, making it a highly convenient option for anyone needing portable, secure storage.
5. Western Digital 4TB WD Red SA500 NAS 3D NAND Internal SSD…
If you need serious capacity and performance for your NAS, the 4TB WD Red SA500 is a powerhouse. This larger capacity drive brings all the NAS-specific optimizations of the SA500 series – superior endurance, 24/7 reliability, and caching optimization – to a massive 4TB package. This is ideal for professional users or enthusiasts who need significant SSD caching or even an all-flash NAS array for ultra-high performance data access.
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Key Features:
- 4TB storage optimized for caching in NAS systems.
- Superior endurance for heavy read/write loads in 24/7 environments.
- Purpose-built for NAS with proven Western Digital 3D NAND.
- Reduces latency and improves responsiveness for demanding applications.
- Available in 2.5” and M.2 form factors to fit modern NAS systems.
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB capacity for extensive caching or all-flash arrays.
- Engineered for continuous, demanding NAS workloads.
- Dramatically improves NAS responsiveness for critical applications.
- High reliability and durability from a trusted brand.
- Form factor flexibility for various NAS models.
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Cons:
- Price point for 4TB specifically designed for NAS will be higher.
- SATA speeds are a limitation compared to NVMe for raw throughput.
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User Impressions: Users with high-end NAS setups, particularly those running virtual machines, databases, or extensive media servers, report significant performance gains and rock-solid reliability with the 4TB WD Red SA500. They appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a drive specifically designed for their use case.
6. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD…
For those with high-end NAS systems that feature M.2 NVMe slots (often used for ultra-fast caching or dedicated storage pools), the Lexar NM790 is a formidable contender. With PCIe Gen4 speeds reaching 7400MB/s read, it’s incredibly fast. Its low power consumption and Host Memory Buffer (HMB) feature make it an efficient choice for demanding workloads, ensuring your NAS handles even the most intensive tasks without breaking a sweat. This truly positions it as one of the Lexar best SSD drives for NAS when NVMe is an option.
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Key Features:
- 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 smoother transfer speeds.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators (and high-performance NAS).
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 (and NAS with M.2 2280 slots).
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops and compact NAS designs.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Extreme speed for rapid data access and caching.
- Power-efficient operation, good for 24/7 NAS use.
- High endurance (1500TBW for 2TB).
- Versatile for various high-performance applications.
- Long warranty period.
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Cons:
- Requires a NAS with M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 slots.
- Higher cost per GB compared to SATA SSDs.
- May generate more heat than SATA drives under sustained load (though efficient for NVMe).
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User Impressions: Gamers and content creators are thrilled with the NM790’s raw speed and performance. NAS users who have adopted it for caching or specific storage pools within compatible NAS units report a remarkable increase in responsiveness and throughput for their most demanding operations.
7. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe SSD…
While marketed for PS5, the Lexar PLAY SSD brings serious performance and a built-in heatsink, making it a compelling option for high-performance NAS systems that support M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 drives, especially for caching or dedicated storage pools. Its 4TB capacity combined with 7400MB/s read speeds means you can create a blazing-fast tier of storage for your most critical data or demanding applications within your NAS.
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Key Features:
- Designed to coordinate with PS5, but also great for PC/NAS gaming.
- 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds (4TB: 3200TBW).
- Tested and approved for PS5, indicating reliability.
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance and accelerated data access.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Extremely high capacity (4TB) with top-tier Gen 4 NVMe speeds.
- Built-in heatsink helps manage thermal performance in demanding NAS environments.
- High endurance (3200TBW for 4TB).
- Excellent for high-performance caching or storage tiers in compatible NAS units.
- Long warranty provides peace of mind.
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Cons:
- Primarily marketed for gaming, so specific NAS optimizations aren’t highlighted.
- Heatsink might be too tall for some compact NAS M.2 slots.
- Requires a NAS with M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 slots.
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User Impressions: PS5 owners are obviously delighted with its performance, but PC builders and those with high-end NAS units value the included heatsink and the sheer speed and capacity it offers. They report smooth operation and excellent thermal management, even under heavy loads.
8. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you’re looking for an affordable entry into SSD caching for your NAS or a small, fast boot drive for a custom-built NAS, the Lexar NS100 256GB is a solid choice. While not as fast as NVMe, its SATA III speeds are still a significant upgrade over traditional HDDs. Its shock and vibration resistance make it reliable for continuous operation in a NAS, offering better data integrity than spinning drives.
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Key Features:
- Upgrade 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 capacity, 120TBW endurance.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Cost-effective SSD upgrade.
- More durable and reliable than HDDs for 24/7 NAS use.
- Noticeable speed improvement over mechanical drives.
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor compatible with most NAS bays.
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Cons:
- SATA III speeds are a bottleneck compared to NVMe.
- 256GB might be small for extensive caching or large data storage.
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User Impressions: Users often purchase the NS100 for older laptops or desktops, praising its ability to breathe new life into slow systems. For NAS, it’s considered a reliable and inexpensive option for a boot drive or a small, dedicated cache drive in budget-friendly setups.
9. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
For the most budget-conscious NAS users who still want the benefits of an SSD, the 128GB Lexar NS100 offers a compelling entry point. This drive is ideal for a dedicated NAS operating system drive or a minimal cache drive to accelerate metadata access or frequently accessed small files. It provides the same reliability and speed improvements over HDDs in a smaller, more affordable package.
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Key Features:
- Upgrade 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.
- 128GB capacity, 60TBW endurance.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Very affordable way to get SSD benefits.
- Improved reliability and durability for NAS.
- Faster boot times and application loads than HDDs.
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor.
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Cons:
- Limited capacity, best for OS or very small cache.
- SATA III speeds are modest compared to NVMe.
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User Impressions: This drive is a popular pick for those upgrading older PCs or as a boot drive in entry-level NAS builds. Users consistently highlight the significant speed boost they get for a very low cost, making it excellent value for specific, limited applications.
10. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
Stepping up the capacity within the NS100 line, the 512GB version provides a good balance between cost and storage. This drive is a great fit for a more substantial cache drive in your NAS, capable of holding a larger volume of frequently accessed data to significantly improve overall system responsiveness. It maintains the NS100 series’ reputation for reliability and solid SATA III performance.
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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.
- 512GB capacity, 240TBW endurance.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Good capacity for a dedicated NAS cache or secondary storage pool.
- Reliable and durable with no moving parts.
- Solid performance boost over HDDs for a reasonable price.
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor for wide compatibility.
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Cons:
- Still limited by SATA III interface speeds.
- Not optimized specifically for NAS like WD Red drives.
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User Impressions: Many users find the 512GB NS100 to be a sweet spot for general upgrades, offering enough space for their operating system and key applications. For NAS, it’s often used as a mid-range cache solution, delivering noticeable speed improvements without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why should I use SSDs in my NAS instead of traditional HDDs?
A1: SSDs offer significantly faster read/write speeds, leading to quicker file access, application loading, and overall system responsiveness. They also consume less power, generate less heat, produce no noise, and are more durable due to the absence of moving parts, making them ideal for 24/7 operation in a NAS environment.
Q2: Can external Lexar SSDs be used inside a NAS?
A2: Generally, no. External SSDs like the Lexar ES3 and Professional Go are designed for portable, direct-attached storage via USB. They aren’t meant for continuous internal operation within a NAS’s drive bays. However, they can be excellent for fast backups to or from your NAS, or as temporary external storage connected to your NAS’s USB port if the NAS OS supports it.
Q3: What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs for NAS?
A3: SATA SSDs (like the Lexar NS100 series or WD Red SA500) connect via the SATA III interface and typically offer speeds up to around 550MB/s. NVMe SSDs (like the Lexar NM790 or Play) connect via the PCIe interface and offer much higher speeds, often reaching thousands of MB/s. For NAS, SATA SSDs are great for general caching or storage pools, while NVMe SSDs are best for ultra-fast caching, demanding applications, or if your NAS specifically supports M.2 NVMe slots for storage.
Q4: Are Lexar SSDs reliable enough for 24/7 NAS operation?
A4: While consumer-grade Lexar SSDs are generally reliable, purpose-built NAS SSDs like the Western Digital Red SA500 are specifically designed and tested for continuous, heavy workloads in a 24/7 environment, often offering higher endurance (TBW) and specialized firmware. For critical NAS data, a drive optimized for NAS use might be a safer bet, but Lexar’s higher-end NVMe drives can still perform exceptionally well as cache drives in capable NAS units.
Q5: What is SSD caching in a NAS, and how does it help?
A5: SSD caching involves using one or more SSDs to store frequently accessed data or metadata, acting as a high-speed buffer between your NAS’s main HDD storage and the network. When data is requested, if it’s in the SSD cache, it’s delivered much faster. This significantly improves performance for random read/write operations, making the NAS feel much snappier, especially in multi-user environments or with demanding applications.
Q6: How do I choose the right capacity SSD for my NAS?
A6: It depends on your use case. For a boot drive in a custom NAS, 128GB-256GB might suffice. For an SSD cache, a larger capacity like 500GB-2TB (or even 4TB) is recommended, depending on the size of your primary HDD array and how much hot data you expect to cache. If you’re building an all-flash NAS, you’ll need capacities that meet your total storage requirements.
Q7: What are some important factors to consider when buying SSDs for a NAS?
A7: Look for endurance ratings (TBW – Terabytes Written), sustained read/write performance, form factor compatibility (2.5-inch SATA, M.2 SATA, M.2 NVMe), power efficiency, and, if possible, drives specifically optimized for NAS workloads (like WD Red). Compatibility with your specific NAS model is also crucial, so always check your NAS manufacturer’s approved drive list.