Is your laptop feeling sluggish? Are those loading screens making you want to pull your hair out? Upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the most impactful changes you can make to breathe new life into an aging machine, or even supercharge a new one. While finding a specific “Lexar best 120gb ssd for laptop” might seem like a precise goal, Lexar, a trusted name in storage, offers a fantastic range of SSDs, with 128GB being a common entry point that’s practically the same as 120GB. They also offer larger internal and super-fast external options to fit every need and budget.
In this article, we’re diving deep into some of Lexar’s top SSD offerings, along with a notable alternative, to help you pick the perfect upgrade for your laptop. We’ll explore various capacities and types, making sure you understand what each one brings to the table, especially if you’re keen on finding a high-performing and reliable drive.
Why Your Laptop Needs an SSD Upgrade
If you’re still running a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD), you’re missing out! SSDs offer vastly superior performance. They have no moving parts, which means they’re faster, quieter, more durable, and consume less power. This translates to quicker boot times, snappier application launches, and much faster file transfers. It’s a game-changer for overall laptop performance!
What to Look for in a Laptop SSD
When you’re shopping for an SSD, consider these factors:
- Capacity: How much storage do you need? For a primary boot drive, 120GB/128GB is good for just the operating system and a few essential apps, but 256GB or 512GB gives you more breathing room.
- Form Factor: Most laptops use 2.5-inch SATA SSDs, but newer, slimmer models might use M.2 NVMe drives. Make sure you know what your laptop supports.
- Read/Write Speeds: Higher speeds mean faster performance. SATA III drives generally max out around 550MB/s, while NVMe drives can hit thousands of MB/s.
- Durability (TBW): Total Bytes Written (TBW) indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime. Higher TBW means longer endurance.
- Brand Reputation: Lexar is well-regarded for producing reliable memory and storage solutions.
Now, let’s explore the top Lexar SSDs and a key alternative that could be your next laptop upgrade!
Product Reviews: Finding Your Perfect SSD
Here are our top picks, carefully reviewed to help you make an informed decision:
Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you’re looking for a solid all-around internal SSD upgrade that offers a noticeable boost without breaking the bank, the Lexar NS100 256GB is a fantastic choice. It’s designed to give your laptop a new lease on life, transforming slow startups and application loads into a distant memory. This drive is particularly great for users who need a bit more space than a basic 120GB or 128GB SSD, ensuring you have enough room for your OS, essential software, and a good chunk of files.
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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 (Total Bytes Written)
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Significant performance improvement over HDDs
- Good value for its capacity and speed
- Durable design with no moving parts
- Reliable Lexar brand quality
- Easy to install in most laptops
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Cons
- SATA III speeds aren’t as fast as NVMe, but still excellent for most users
- 256GB might not be enough for very large game libraries or media collections
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User Impressions
Customers consistently praise the NS100 for its ease of installation and the dramatic speed improvements it brings to their older laptops. Many highlight how it made their systems feel brand new again, commenting on the quick boot times and responsive applications. It’s often recommended as a cost-effective upgrade.
Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
For those specifically searching for a “Lexar best 120gb ssd for laptop” and are on a tight budget or only need a primary boot drive for their operating system and a few core applications, the Lexar 128GB NS100 is your go-to. This compact internal SSD offers the same performance benefits as its larger siblings but in a more economical package. It’s perfect for revitalizing an older laptop, making it feel snappier and more responsive for everyday tasks without overspending on capacity you don’t need.
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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
- [128GB] 60TBW (Total Bytes Written)
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Excellent entry-level pricing
- Transforms older laptops with significantly faster performance
- Durable and reliable with no moving parts
- Ideal for a boot drive and essential software
- Lexar’s trusted quality
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Cons
- Limited storage capacity for extensive files or games
- SATA III speeds are not as cutting-edge as NVMe
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User Impressions
Users love this 128GB SSD for its affordability and the instant performance boost it delivers. It’s frequently cited as a perfect solution for breathing life back into older machines, especially for non-power users or those just looking for faster Windows startup and web browsing. The straightforward installation is also a big plus.
Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you need a substantial upgrade that offers plenty of storage for your operating system, applications, and a healthy collection of documents, photos, and even some games, the Lexar 512GB NS100 is an excellent choice. This internal SATA III SSD provides a generous capacity, ensuring you won’t quickly run out of space, while still delivering the speedy performance you expect from a solid-state drive. It’s a fantastic balance of speed, capacity, and value for most laptop users.
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Key Features
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer 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] 240TBW (Total Bytes Written)
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Generous 512GB capacity for most users
- Improved sequential read speeds compared to smaller NS100 models
- Enhanced durability with higher TBW rating
- Significant performance upgrade for any laptop still on an HDD
- Reliable Lexar quality
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Cons
- Still SATA III, so not as fast as NVMe for high-end tasks
- Might be overkill if you only need a small boot drive
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User Impressions
Reviewers are very happy with the 512GB NS100, often noting the great balance between price, performance, and storage. Many users appreciate having ample space for their entire system and personal files without compromising on speed. It’s considered a highly dependable and straightforward upgrade.
Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read, Storage…
Sometimes, an internal drive isn’t enough, or you need portable storage that’s incredibly fast. The Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD is a powerhouse for anyone needing serious speed and capacity on the go. It’s 9.5 times faster than traditional hard drives, making it ideal for large file backups, professional work, or even expanding game storage for consoles. Its robust build, including advanced heat dissipation and drop resistance, means it’s ready for almost anything.
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Key Features
- 9.5X faster than hard disk drives with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion
- Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for excellent durability
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable for PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and Lexar Recovery Tool
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Pros
- Blazing-fast read/write speeds for external storage
- Excellent for large file transfers and media
- Highly durable and shock-resistant
- Wide compatibility with various devices
- Includes security and data recovery software
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Cons
- External SSD, so not an internal laptop upgrade
- Higher price point due to capacity and performance
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User Impressions
Users are incredibly impressed with the speed and compact design of the ES3. Creative professionals and gamers often highlight its rapid data transfers for video editing or game storage. Its robust build quality and the peace of mind from encryption software are also frequently mentioned positives.
Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible…
For the ultimate in portable storage performance and capacity, the Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD is an absolute beast. With incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds, this drive is designed for demanding tasks like 4K video recording directly from an iPhone 15 Pro, massive data backups, and high-speed workflow for professionals. Its sleek, durable metal design means you can carry 4TB of blazing-fast storage in your pocket, making it perfect for creators and power users on the move.
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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 with mobile devices, 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 convenience
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Phenomenal read/write speeds, among the fastest portable SSDs
- Massive 4TB capacity for extensive needs
- Excellent for content creation and high-demand applications
- Extremely durable and portable
- Supports direct iPhone Pro recording
- Long 5-year warranty
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Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speed (though still fast on lesser ports)
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User Impressions
Customers rave about the SL500’s incredible speed and compact form factor. It’s a favorite among video editors and photographers who need to transfer large files quickly. The ability to record directly from iPhones is a huge selling point for content creators, and its robust build receives high marks.
Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible…
If you love the idea of the Lexar SL500’s incredible speed and robust design but don’t quite need 4TB of storage, the 2TB version is a fantastic middle ground. It offers the same blistering USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, delivering up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write speeds, which means lightning-fast file transfers and seamless workflow, even for demanding creative tasks. Its slim, durable metal casing makes it an ideal companion for any laptop user who needs high-performance, portable storage without compromise.
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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 with mobile devices, 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 convenience
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Blazing-fast read/write speeds
- Generous 2TB capacity for most professional and personal needs
- Extremely portable and durable metal casing
- Excellent for content creation, gaming, and large backups
- Long 5-year warranty provides peace of mind
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Cons
- Premium price, though less than the 4TB model
- Full speed requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port
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User Impressions
Similar to its 4TB sibling, the 2TB SL500 receives high praise for its speed, build quality, and versatility. Users find it perfect for storing large media libraries, editing on the go, and expanding game console storage. The compact size combined with serious performance makes it a favorite.
Western Digital 120GB WD Green Internal PC SSD Solid…
While this article focuses on Lexar, if your primary goal is finding a 120GB SSD for laptop and you’re open to other reliable brands, the Western Digital 120GB WD Green internal PC SSD is an excellent alternative. WD Green drives are known for their value and efficiency, offering a budget-friendly way to upgrade your laptop’s performance. It’s a solid choice for a primary boot drive, boosting startup times and application responsiveness for everyday computing tasks.
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Key Features
- SLC (single-level cell) caching boosts write performance for everyday tasks
- Shock-resistant and WD F.I.T. Lab certified for compatibility and reliability
- Ultra low power-draw for longer laptop battery life
- Includes a 3-year limited warranty
- Free, downloadable WD SSD Dashboard to monitor drive status
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Pros
- Very affordable 120GB capacity option
- Improved performance over traditional HDDs
- Low power consumption, great for laptop battery life
- Reliable Western Digital brand
- Includes useful monitoring software
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Cons
- Performance isn’t as high as some Lexar models or NVMe drives
- Limited capacity for extensive storage needs
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User Impressions
Customers often choose the WD Green for its affordability and reliable performance as an entry-level upgrade. It’s widely praised for making older laptops feel much faster, especially for basic tasks and as a boot drive. The low power consumption is also a frequently mentioned benefit for laptop users.
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
The Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub is a unique and incredibly versatile tool for content creators and professionals who need both high-speed storage and expanded connectivity on the go. This ultra-compact device isn’t just a fast SSD; it’s also a hub with four USB Type-C ports, making it perfect for streamlining your mobile workstation. Its rugged, IP65-rated design means it’s ready for challenging environments, and its direct Apple ProRes recording capability makes it a favorite for iPhone videographers.
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Key Features
- Ultra-compact design with wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage with ease
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters and cables for ultimate flexibility
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Ready for travel: dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65 rated), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Combines SSD and multi-port hub in one device
- Excellent for mobile content creation, especially with iPhones
- High-speed data transfer for 4K recording and backups
- Extremely durable and rugged design
- Ultra-portable and versatile connectivity
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Cons
- Higher price point due to hub functionality
- Not an internal SSD upgrade for a laptop
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User Impressions
This product is a huge hit with professional photographers and videographers who appreciate its multi-functionality. Users love the convenience of having both fast storage and port expansion in one tiny, durable package, especially for on-location shoots or while traveling. The ProRes support is a game-changer for iPhone 15 Pro users.
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
For those with newer laptops equipped with an M.2 NVMe slot, the Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD is a top-tier upgrade that offers blistering speeds far beyond traditional SATA SSDs. This PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive is designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators who demand the absolute best in performance. With read speeds up to 7400MB/s, it’s a true speed demon, delivering incredibly fast boot times, game loads, and application responsiveness. Plus, it’s compatible with PlayStation 5, making it a versatile choice.
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Key Features
- [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 smoother transfer speed and seamless performance
- 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
- Extremely fast Gen4 NVMe performance
- High 1TB capacity, excellent for large game libraries or professional files
- Energy-efficient design, good for laptop battery life
- High durability (1000TBW)
- Ideal for gaming, video editing, and demanding applications
- 5-year warranty for peace of mind
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Cons
- Requires a compatible M.2 NVMe slot (not for older laptops)
- Higher price point than SATA SSDs
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User Impressions
Gamers and professional users consistently praise the NM790 for its incredible speed and how it transforms their system’s responsiveness. They report significantly faster game loading times and seamless multitasking. Its compatibility with PS5 is also a frequently highlighted feature.
Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
If the 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub caught your eye but you need double the storage for your expansive creative projects, the Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub is the answer. This powerhouse combines 2TB of high-speed, rugged storage with a versatile four-port USB-C hub, making it an indispensable tool for mobile content creators. Whether you’re recording 4K ProRes footage directly from your iPhone 15 Pro, backing up client files, or connecting multiple peripherals on the go, this device offers unparalleled convenience and performance in a travel-ready package.
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Key Features
- Ultra-compact design with wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage with ease
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters and cables for ultimate flexibility
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Ready for travel: dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65 rated), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Huge 2TB capacity with integrated multi-port hub
- Exceptional value for mobile professionals
- High-speed performance for demanding workflows
- Extremely durable, waterproof, and dust-proof
- Versatile connectivity and iPhone ProRes recording support
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Cons
- Premium price, but justified by its features and capacity
- Not an internal laptop storage solution
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User Impressions
Professionals absolutely love the 2TB version for its expanded capacity, which allows them to carry even more projects and backups. The combination of fast SSD performance and the integrated hub is consistently praised as a game-changer for workflow efficiency, especially for those working remotely or on location. Its ruggedness also provides significant peace of mind.
FAQ: All Your SSD Questions Answered
Q1: What’s the main difference between an SSD and a traditional HDD?
A1: The biggest difference is mechanical parts. HDDs use spinning platters and read/write heads, making them slower, noisier, and more fragile. SSDs use flash memory, which means no moving parts, resulting in vastly superior speeds (faster boot times, app loads), silent operation, better durability, and lower power consumption.
Q2: Why should I choose a 120GB/128GB SSD for my laptop?
A2: A 120GB or 128GB SSD is an excellent, cost-effective upgrade if you’re on a budget and primarily need a boost for your operating system and essential applications. It will drastically improve your laptop’s responsiveness for everyday tasks. If you need more space for files, games, or media, a larger capacity (256GB or 512GB and up) would be more suitable.
Q3: Can I install a Lexar SSD myself in my laptop?
A3: For most 2.5-inch SATA SSDs, yes! It’s usually a straightforward process. You’ll typically need a small screwdriver and possibly a cloning tool or a fresh Windows installation. M.2 NVMe SSDs are also generally easy to install in compatible laptops. Always check your laptop’s manual or look up a tutorial specific to your model before starting.
Q4: What’s the difference between SATA III and NVMe SSDs?
A4: SATA III is an older interface with a theoretical maximum speed of around 600MB/s (real-world around 550MB/s). NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a newer protocol that works with PCIe (PCI Express) lanes, offering significantly faster speeds, often in the thousands of MB/s. NVMe drives are usually M.2 form factor, while SATA III drives can be 2.5-inch or M.2. For ultimate speed, NVMe is king, but SATA III is still a huge upgrade from an HDD.
Q5: How much storage do I really need for my laptop?
A5: It depends on your usage!
* 120GB/128GB: Best for a boot drive (OS + essential apps) for light users.
* 256GB: Good for OS, essential apps, and some documents/photos. A solid starting point for most.
* 512GB: Comfortable for OS, many applications, a decent media library, and some games. Great for general use.
* 1TB or more: Ideal for gamers, video editors, graphic designers, or anyone with large file collections.
Q6: What does TBW (Total Bytes Written) mean for an SSD?
A6: TBW is an endurance rating that indicates the total amount of data that can be written to an SSD over its lifetime before it’s expected to wear out. A higher TBW means the drive is rated for greater longevity and heavier use. For typical laptop users, modern SSDs have more than enough TBW for years of reliable service.
Q7: Are Lexar SSDs reliable?
A7: Yes, Lexar is a well-established and respected brand in the memory and storage industry. They are known for producing reliable products, and their SSDs typically come with competitive warranties, providing peace of mind for users.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re looking for the Lexar best 120gb ssd for laptop to kickstart a budget upgrade or aiming for a top-tier NVMe drive for professional-grade performance, Lexar has a strong lineup to consider. From the economical 128GB NS100 to the blazing-fast 1TB NM790 NVMe or the versatile Professional Go Portable SSDs, there’s a Lexar solution for every laptop and every user.
Upgrading to an SSD is one of the smartest moves you can make for your laptop. It’s a noticeable, tangible improvement that will make your daily computing tasks faster, smoother, and more enjoyable. So, go ahead and give your laptop the speed boost it deserves!