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Hey there, fellow gamers! If you’re tired of staring at loading screens longer than your actual gameplay, it’s time to talk about solid-state drives (SSDs). Upgrading to a fast SSD is one of the most impactful changes you can make to your desktop gaming rig, significantly improving boot times, game load speeds, and overall system responsiveness. And when it comes to reliable and high-performance storage, Lexar is a name that consistently comes up. But is Lexar the Lexar best SSD for desktop gaming? We’re diving deep into some of their top offerings, plus a couple of fantastic alternatives from Crucial, to help you make an informed decision.
From blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 NVMe drives to reliable SATA options, we’ve rounded up 10 excellent SSDs that can elevate your gaming experience. Let’s get those games loading in a blink!
Why an SSD is a Game-Changer for Your Desktop
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly go over why an SSD is crucial for modern desktop gaming:
- Lightning-Fast Load Times: Games with large open worlds or numerous assets benefit immensely from an SSD, drastically cutting down load screens.
- Quicker Boot-ups: Your operating system will start in seconds, not minutes.
- Smoother Gameplay: Less stuttering and pop-in, especially in games that stream assets constantly.
- Faster File Transfers: Moving large game files or recordings becomes a breeze.
- Improved Responsiveness: Your entire system will just feel snappier.
Now, let’s get to the contenders!
Our Top Picks: Lexar and Crucial SSDs for Your Gaming Desktop
1. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Drive
This 2TB NM790 with a pre-installed heatsink is a beast designed for serious gamers and professionals who demand top-tier performance and consistent thermal management. It’s perfect for those who want to ensure their drive doesn’t throttle under heavy loads, making it an ideal choice for the Lexar best SSD for desktop gaming when sustained speed is paramount. If you’re building a new high-end gaming PC or upgrading a PS5, this drive offers both the speed and the cooling solution you need right out of the box.
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Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1500TBW endurance rating
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother performance
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Outstanding speed for gaming and large file transfers
- Heatsink included, saving you an extra purchase and installation
- Excellent endurance (TBW)
- Energy efficient for a Gen4 drive
- PS5 compatible
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to performance and heatsink
- Heatsink might not fit in all cramped laptop or desktop M.2 slots
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User Impressions: Gamers absolutely rave about the NM790’s speed, noting significant reductions in game load times and system boot-up. The included heatsink is a major plus for those concerned about thermal throttling, especially in enclosed PC cases or the PS5.
2. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Drive
The 1TB version of the NM790 offers the same incredible speed and efficiency as its 2TB sibling but without the pre-installed heatsink, making it a versatile option. This particular model is an excellent middle-ground, providing ample space for a good collection of AAA titles and demanding applications. Its single-sided design makes it a fantastic fit for both desktop gaming rigs and more compact systems like gaming laptops or ITX builds where space is at a premium.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- 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 performance
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, ideal for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen4 speeds
- Lower power consumption than many competitors
- Excellent value for its performance tier
- Versatile for desktops, laptops, and PS5
- High endurance rating
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Cons:
- No included heatsink (may need to buy one separately for optimal performance under heavy load)
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User Impressions: Users frequently highlight the incredible speed-to-price ratio of this drive. It’s praised for transforming system responsiveness and making demanding games feel much snappier. Many appreciate its compatibility with PS5 and the ease of installation.
3. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
While not a cutting-edge NVMe drive, the Lexar NS100 256GB SATA SSD is a fantastic choice for giving an older desktop gaming PC a significant speed boost without breaking the bank. If your motherboard doesn’t have an M.2 slot or you’re on a tighter budget, this drive still offers a massive leap in performance compared to traditional hard drives. It’s perfect for system boot drives and storing a few smaller games, making it a very practical entry-level upgrade.
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Key Features:
- 256GB capacity
- 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
- 120TBW endurance rating
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Affordable upgrade for older systems
- Significantly faster than HDDs for boot times and basic tasks
- High reliability due to no moving parts
- Easy to install in any 2.5-inch drive bay
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Cons:
- Much slower than NVMe SSDs
- Limited capacity for modern game libraries
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User Impressions: Customers love this drive for revitalizing old laptops and desktops, reporting dramatic improvements in boot times and application loading. It’s seen as an excellent budget-friendly option for those who don’t need the absolute fastest speeds.
4. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
While our main focus is on the Lexar best SSD for desktop gaming, we simply couldn’t skip the Crucial P310 1TB. Crucial, a brand under Micron Technology, is known for its quality memory products, and this Gen4 NVMe SSD is a strong contender. It delivers fantastic speeds for quicker game load times and smooth multitasking, making it an excellent alternative to Lexar for any gaming desktop or even select handheld gaming consoles.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds
- Spacious 1TB SSD for AAA games, apps, and media
- Broad Compatibility: works with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles (ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, AYANEO Kun)
- Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems
- Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation
- Trusted Micron Quality with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control
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Pros:
- Very high Gen4 speeds for gaming and productivity
- Excellent compatibility across various devices
- Backed by Micron’s reputation for quality
- Good thermal control for consistent performance
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Cons:
- No included heatsink
- May not reach advertised top speeds on older motherboards without PCIe Gen4 support
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the P310 for its impressive speeds and reliability. Many note the significant improvements in game loading and system responsiveness, often highlighting its great value for a Gen4 drive.
5. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Drive
This 2TB version of the NM790 is a powerhouse for serious desktop gamers and content creators. Without a pre-installed heatsink, it offers a bit more flexibility if your motherboard already has robust M.2 cooling, or if you prefer to add your own. With its immense capacity, you can store a vast library of modern AAA titles, ensuring you’re always ready for your next gaming session. This is undeniably a contender for the Lexar best SSD for desktop gaming if you prioritize raw speed and storage without the bundled heatsink.
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Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- 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 performance
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, ideal for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Massive 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries
- Top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds for minimal load times
- Excellent endurance and power efficiency
- Versatile for desktop, laptop, and PS5 gaming
- Competitive pricing for its performance tier
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Cons:
- No included heatsink (consider purchasing one for sustained high-performance use)
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User Impressions: Users are thrilled with the sheer speed and capacity of this 2TB NM790. Many emphasize its ability to handle multiple demanding games and applications simultaneously without a hitch. It’s frequently recommended for users looking for a substantial upgrade in performance and storage.
6. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
While primarily an internal drive review, the Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD deserves a mention for its incredible portability and potential use in specific desktop gaming scenarios, like quickly transferring large game files or using it as supplementary storage for games that don’t require the absolute fastest internal speeds. It’s also fantastic for console gaming or playing titles directly from the drive on compatible devices. Its sleek design makes it a perfect companion for gamers on the go.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- High-speed Data Transfer: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2)
- Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming consoles, and more
- On The Go: thin, stylish, and durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick)
- Includes Type-C cable for plug-and-play
- Data Safety First: Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software
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Pros:
- Excellent portable speeds (much faster than external HDDs)
- Broad compatibility across many devices
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- Includes encryption software for data security
- Ideal for quick transfers or expanding console storage
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Cons:
- Not suitable as a primary internal desktop gaming drive
- Performance dependent on the host device’s USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
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User Impressions: Users praise the ES3 for its compact size, robust build, and impressive transfer speeds, especially when used with modern USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. It’s highly rated for backing up large files, creative work, and expanding console storage.
7. Lexar 480GB NQ100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
The Lexar NQ100 480GB SATA SSD is another solid choice for budget-conscious gamers or those looking to upgrade an older system currently running on a traditional hard drive. At 480GB, it provides a bit more space than the 256GB NS100, allowing for a larger game library alongside your operating system. It’s a straightforward, reliable upgrade that will make your desktop feel significantly more responsive for daily use and lighter gaming titles.
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Key Features:
- 480GB capacity
- Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
- Better performance and reliability than traditional hard drives
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- 168TBW endurance rating
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Affordable and reliable performance boost
- Good capacity for a budget-friendly option
- Easy to install in most desktops and laptops
- Improved durability over HDDs
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe drives
- Still might be limiting for gamers with vast AAA game libraries
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User Impressions: This drive is frequently lauded for its affordability and the noticeable performance improvement it brings to older machines. Customers appreciate its reliability and ease of installation, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious upgrades.
8. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD steps up the external storage game significantly. Boasting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, it delivers blistering speeds that rival some internal SSDs, making it suitable for even more demanding tasks like recording high-resolution video directly from an iPhone 15 Pro, or storing and playing games that don’t require PCIe Gen4 bandwidth. Its slim profile and robust metal design make it an exceptionally durable and convenient storage solution for any gamer.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: 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 with mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more
- 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
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Pros:
- Exceptional external transfer speeds
- Excellent for creative professionals and mobile gamers
- Robust build quality and thermal management
- Broad device compatibility
- Compact and pocket-friendly
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port to achieve full speeds (less common on older desktops)
- Still an external drive, not a direct replacement for an internal gaming SSD
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User Impressions: Reviewers are highly impressed with the SL500’s speed, especially for video editing and quick data transfers. Its sleek design and durable build are frequently mentioned, making it a favorite for those needing portable, high-performance storage.
9. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a portable command center! The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD combines a high-speed 2TB drive with an integrated hub, offering incredible flexibility for content creators and gamers alike. Its rugged design means you can take it anywhere, and the blazing-fast performance ensures seamless 4K recording and swift backups. For a desktop gamer, it can serve as a robust external backup solution, a temporary drive for game installs, or a hub for peripheral connectivity.
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Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- Ultra-compact design
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (plus included adapters/cables)
- Capture Apple ProRes footage
- Integrated hub with 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
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Combines storage and connectivity in one device
- Highly durable and travel-ready
- Excellent speeds for an external drive
- Great for creative workflows and backups
- Ample 2TB capacity
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Cons:
- More expensive than a standard portable SSD due to hub functionality
- Not an internal desktop gaming drive
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User Impressions: Users are particularly excited about the integrated hub, finding it incredibly convenient for managing multiple devices on the go. Its ruggedness and speed also receive high marks, making it a reliable choice for professional and enthusiast use.
10. Crucial P310 2280 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe Gaming PS5 SSD
Rounding out our list, and another excellent non-Lexar option, is the Crucial P310 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD. This drive is specifically highlighted for gaming, including PS5 compatibility, making it a direct competitor to some of Lexar’s top-tier internal drives for desktop gaming. With 2TB of space, you get plenty of room for a growing game library, and the high PCIe 4.0 speeds ensure that every game loads quickly and runs smoothly.
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Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds
- Spacious 2TB SSD for AAA games, apps, and media
- Broad Compatibility: seamlessly works with desktops, laptops, and PlayStation 5
- Backward compatibility with Gen3 systems
- Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation
- Trusted Micron Quality with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control
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Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity for extensive game collections
- Exceptional PCIe Gen4 speeds for rapid loading
- Excellent compatibility, including PS5
- Reliable performance backed by Micron
- Strong value for a 2TB Gen4 drive
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Cons:
- No included heatsink (recommended for PS5 and some desktop builds)
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User Impressions: This 2TB P310 receives widespread acclaim for its performance and value. Users frequently mention its ease of installation and the dramatic difference it makes in game load times and overall system speed, especially for PS5 expansions.
FAQ: Your Burning SSD Questions Answered
Q1: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs for gaming?
A: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs, especially those using PCIe Gen4, are significantly faster than SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) SSDs. NVMe drives connect directly to the motherboard via an M.2 slot, bypassing the SATA bottleneck and offering speeds up to 10-14 times faster (e.g., 7000MB/s vs. 550MB/s). For modern desktop gaming, NVMe is highly recommended for OS and primary game storage for the best performance. SATA SSDs are still great upgrades from traditional HDDs for older systems or secondary storage.
Q2: Do I really need a PCIe Gen4 SSD for gaming, or is Gen3 enough?
A: While PCIe Gen3 SSDs are still very fast and a massive improvement over HDDs, PCIe Gen4 drives offer substantial benefits for newer games, especially those with large open worlds or requiring frequent asset streaming. Games are increasingly optimized to take advantage of these higher speeds to reduce load times and texture pop-in. If you’re building a new PC or upgrading an existing one with a compatible motherboard, a Gen4 SSD is definitely the way to go for future-proofing your desktop gaming experience.
Q3: What does TBW mean, and how important is it for a gaming SSD?
A: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s an endurance rating that indicates how much data can be written to the SSD over its lifespan before it might start to degrade. For gaming, you’re primarily reading data, not constantly writing huge amounts, so typical TBW ratings (like 600TBW for 1TB or 1500TBW for 2TB) are usually more than enough for years of heavy gaming. It’s more critical for professional use cases like video editing or data logging.
Q4: Is a heatsink necessary for an NVMe SSD?
A: For PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs, especially high-performance models or those used in a PlayStation 5 or compact desktop cases, a heatsink is often recommended. These drives can generate a fair amount of heat under sustained heavy loads (like during long gaming sessions or large file transfers). Excessive heat can lead to “thermal throttling,” where the drive intentionally slows down to prevent damage. Many modern motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can purchase one separately.
Q5: Can I use an external SSD for desktop gaming?
A: Yes, you can! External SSDs like the Lexar ES3 or SL500 are great for storing games that don’t require the absolute fastest load times, or for easily transferring games between different PCs. However, an internal NVMe SSD will always provide superior performance for your primary gaming drive due to lower latency and higher sustained speeds. External drives are also fantastic for expanding storage on gaming consoles or as fast backup solutions.
Q6: How much storage capacity do I need for a gaming SSD?
A: This depends heavily on your gaming habits.
* 500GB: Good for a few AAA titles and your OS. You’ll manage space often.
* 1TB: A solid sweet spot for most gamers, allowing for several large AAA games and plenty of indie titles.
* 2TB+: Ideal for avid gamers with huge libraries, content creators, or those who simply don’t want to worry about uninstalling games. Given how large modern games are, 2TB is becoming the new standard for a comfortable gaming experience.
Q7: How do I install an M.2 NVMe SSD in my desktop?
A: Installing an M.2 NVMe SSD is generally quite simple. You’ll need an M.2 slot on your motherboard (check your motherboard’s manual for its location).
1. Turn off your PC and disconnect power.
2. Open your PC case.
3. Locate the M.2 slot. If there’s a cover or heatsink, remove it.
4. Gently insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at a slight angle.
5. Push it down until it’s parallel with the motherboard.
6. Secure it with the small screw provided by your motherboard or the SSD itself.
7. Replace any heatsink cover.
8. Close your PC, reconnect power, and format the drive in Windows Disk Management (or install your OS on it).
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Ultimate Gaming SSD
There you have it – a comprehensive look at some of the best SSDs for desktop gaming, featuring strong contenders from Lexar and Crucial. Whether you’re chasing the absolute fastest load times with a PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive like the Lexar NM790, or looking for a reliable, budget-friendly SATA upgrade, there’s an option here for you.
For the ultimate Lexar best SSD for desktop gaming experience, we highly recommend the Lexar NM790 series, especially the 2TB version with or without a heatsink, for its phenomenal speed, endurance, and compatibility. Don’t let slow storage hold your gaming potential back any longer. Upgrade your gaming rig today and dive into your favorite virtual worlds faster than ever before!