When it comes to digital storage, spinning hard disk drives (HDDs) are quickly becoming a thing of the past. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are the new champions, offering blazing-fast speeds, incredible durability, and compact designs that make them perfect for everything from quick backups to intensive 4K video editing. And among the leading brands, Lexar has consistently delivered high-quality, reliable storage solutions.
But with so many options out there, how do you find the Lexar best SSD for storage that fits your unique needs? Whether you’re a gamer, a creative professional, a student, or just someone looking to expand their device’s capacity, Lexar has an SSD for you. We’ve done the digging to bring you a comprehensive review of 10 fantastic Lexar SSDs, breaking down their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose a Lexar SSD for Your Storage Needs?
Lexar has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable memory and storage products. Their SSDs are known for their:
* Speed: Offering significantly faster read/write speeds compared to traditional HDDs.
* Durability: With no moving parts, they’re more resistant to drops and impacts.
* Variety: From internal NVMe drives perfect for gaming PCs and consoles to external portable SSDs for on-the-go professionals, Lexar covers all bases.
* Innovation: Features like MagSafe compatibility, integrated hubs, and robust encryption set them apart.
Let’s explore some of the top contenders for the title of Lexar best SSD for storage!
1. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read, Storage…
If you’re after serious external storage with speed and robust protection, the Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD is a fantastic choice. This portable powerhouse is designed for those who need fast data transfers and peace of mind on the go, making it ideal for large file backups, expanding your laptop’s storage, or even running applications directly from the drive. It’s built to withstand the rigors of daily life while keeping your precious data secure.
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Key Features
- 9.5X faster than hard disk drives with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for significantly faster transfers.
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion.
- Built-in, double layer graphite sheets quickly conduct heat, enhancing heat dissipation to keep the drive cool.
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for protection, ensuring durability for everyday and office use.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable for PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone, and more.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software and Lexar Recovery Tool.
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Pros
- Excellent speed for quick file transfers and backups.
- Highly durable with drop resistance and good heat management.
- Wide compatibility thanks to the versatile USB-C/USB-A cable.
- Enhanced data security with AES encryption and recovery software.
- Generous 2TB capacity for extensive storage.
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Cons
- External drives generally won’t match the raw speed of internal NVMe SSDs.
- Might be overkill if you only need minimal storage.
User Impressions: Customers love the ES3 for its blend of speed and ruggedness. Many highlight its ease of use across various devices and the added security features as major selling points, often praising its consistent performance even with large files.
2. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
For content creators and professionals who need both high-speed storage and expanded connectivity, the Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a game-changer. This innovative device isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a mobile workstation, offering a compact solution to capture and manage high-quality footage while providing essential USB-C ports for peripherals. It’s designed to keep your creative workflow smooth, even in demanding situations.
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Key Features
- Ultra-compact, perfect for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled, cumbersome cables.
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, along with adapters and cables for ultimate flexibility.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording.
- Ready for travel: dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Unique combination of SSD storage and a multi-port hub.
- Excellent for mobile content creation, especially Apple ProRes.
- Highly durable and rugged design for outdoor or travel use.
- Fast data transfer speeds for efficient workflows.
- Long 5-year warranty offers peace of mind.
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Cons
- 1TB might feel limiting for very large projects, though a 2TB version exists.
- The “wireless” aspect refers to a direct-plug Type-C, not truly wireless data transfer.
User Impressions: Professionals rave about the convenience of having a hub built into their portable SSD. They particularly appreciate its rugged build and how well it handles demanding tasks like 4K recording, making it an indispensable tool for on-location shoots.
3. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD, Supports Apple 4K…
If you love the idea of a rugged, high-performance portable SSD primarily for mobile devices but don’t need the integrated hub, this Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD is your pick. It’s ultra-compact and specifically designed for expanding your smartphone’s storage and handling demanding tasks like Apple ProRes 4K video recording directly from your device. It’s the perfect companion for mobile videographers and photographers.
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Key Features
- Ultra-compact so you can always keep it with you for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled, cumbersome cables.
- Expand your smartphone’s storage instantly and enjoy seamless data transfers.
- Blazing-fast performance 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless Apple ProRes 4K 60 fps recording.
- Compatible with mobile phones, iPads, tablets, Macs, PCs, cameras, and more Type-C devices.
- Ready for travel: dust- and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter, and comes with a protective silicone case.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Extremely portable and direct-connect for mobile devices.
- Optimized for high-quality video recording like Apple ProRes 4K.
- Rugged build with IP65 rating and protective case.
- Fast speeds for quick transfers and smooth recording.
- Versatile compatibility across many Type-C devices.
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Cons
- “Wireless” is direct plug, not truly wireless.
- 1TB capacity may not be enough for extremely heavy users.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend its small size and robust construction, making it ideal for travel. Mobile creators particularly highlight its ability to record high-bitrate video directly without dropped frames, turning their smartphones into powerful recording tools.
4. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2…
For the serious gamer or PC enthusiast looking for internal storage that offers blistering speeds and efficient cooling, the Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink is an outstanding option. This internal NVMe SSD leverages the power of PCIe Gen 4, providing speeds that will significantly reduce load times for games and applications, making your system feel incredibly responsive. The integrated heatsink ensures optimal performance even under heavy loads, especially for PlayStation 5 users.
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Key Features
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1000TBW.
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs.
- Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool for better performance and power efficiency.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for smoother transfer.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Phenomenal read/write speeds, ideal for gaming and demanding applications.
- Integrated heatsink for superior thermal management.
- Excellent power efficiency for a Gen 4 drive.
- Full compatibility with PlayStation 5 for expanded game storage.
- Long 5-year warranty.
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Cons
- Requires internal installation in a compatible M.2 slot.
- Might be overkill for basic PC users who don’t need extreme speeds.
User Impressions: Gamers especially love this drive for its noticeable speed boost in load times and smooth gameplay on both PC and PS5. The built-in heatsink is frequently praised for simplifying installation and ensuring stable performance during long gaming sessions.
5. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD,…
Need a sleek, ultra-portable, and compatible external SSD, especially if you’re an iPhone 15 user? The Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is designed for exactly that. With its thin metal design, feather-light weight, and broad compatibility including the latest iPhone series, this drive is perfect for anyone who needs fast, secure, and truly pocket-sized storage on the go.
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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: iPhone 15 series, Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more.
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, durable metal design, weighs 42g and only 10.5mm thick.
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
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Pros
- Extremely portable and lightweight, smaller than a card.
- Excellent compatibility, especially for iPhone 15 users.
- Fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds for quick transfers.
- Robust 256-bit AES encryption for data security.
- Durable metal design.
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Cons
- Note that Magsafe is not available in this version.
- Performance may be lower on systems not fully supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2.
User Impressions: Users appreciate the ES3’s incredibly slim profile and how easily it slips into a pocket. iPhone 15 owners particularly highlight its seamless integration and the convenience of having an external drive for media management and backups.
6. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s,…
Stepping up the speed and convenience, the Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD is built for power users and mobile professionals who demand cutting-edge performance and seamless integration. Its standout feature is MagSafe compatibility, allowing it to snap directly onto your phone, coupled with incredible 2000MB/s speeds ideal for recording high-resolution professional video like Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS. This is truly a next-gen portable storage solution.
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Key Features
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write for a smooth workflow.
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to compatible smartphones.
- Supports recording in Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS, and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
- Includes free access to the Lexar App for auto backups and mobile storage expansion.
- Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, and drop resistant up to 3M.
- Thin and stylish liquid silicone build with a comfortable grip; comes with a cable organizer/lanyard.
- Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures for high performance.
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Pros
- Exceptional speed (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2) for the most demanding tasks.
- Innovative MagSafe compatibility for secure phone attachment.
- Ideal for professional high-resolution video recording on mobile devices.
- Superior durability with IP65 rating and 3M drop resistance.
- Thoughtful design with liquid silicone grip and cable organizer.
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Cons
- Full speed requires a system supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, which isn’t universal yet.
- Magnetic attachment is primarily for phones, might not be relevant for all users.
User Impressions: This SSD is a hit with professional videographers and tech enthusiasts for its revolutionary MagSafe integration and lightning-fast speeds. Its ability to handle intense 4K and 8K mobile recording is frequently cited as a major advantage, making it a must-have for advanced mobile content creation.
7. Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s,…
Everything amazing about the 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, but with double the storage! The Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD offers the same unparalleled speed, MagSafe convenience, and professional video recording capabilities, but with a generous 2TB capacity. This means more space for your high-resolution footage, larger project files, and extensive backups, making it an even more robust solution for power users and content creators who can’t compromise on storage space.
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Key Features
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write to transfer files fast for a smooth workflow.
- The drive’s MagSafe-compatible design makes it easy to attach to your compatible smartphone.
- Supports recording in Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS, and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
- Includes free access to the Lexar App to easily auto back up your media and expand the storage of your mobile device.
- Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, and is drop resistant up to 3M.
- Thin and stylish, featuring a liquid silicone build that provides a comfortable grip.
- A thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures to maintain high performance.
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Pros
- Massive 2TB capacity for extensive professional storage needs.
- Extremely high speeds for ultra-fast data transfer and 4K/8K recording.
- MagSafe compatibility for convenient mobile device attachment.
- Outstanding durability with IP65 rating and 3M drop resistance.
- Excellent thermal management and stylish, ergonomic design.
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Cons
- Requires a system supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for maximum speed.
- Higher price point due to capacity and advanced features.
User Impressions: Users echo the praises of the 1TB version, but emphasize the sheer value of 2TB for their demanding workflows. The extra space, combined with the same top-tier performance and magnetic convenience, makes this version a standout for those with large data requirements.
8. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
For those who loved the concept of the Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub but needed more room to breathe, the Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is the answer. Doubling the capacity to 2TB, this drive maintains its versatility, offering not just high-speed storage for Apple ProRes footage but also a built-in hub with four USB Type-C ports. It’s the ultimate portable solution for mobile content creators and power users who need ample storage and expanded connectivity without the clutter.
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Key Features
- Ultra-compact so you can always keep it with you for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled, cumbersome cables.
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease.
- The portable SSD plus the hub, which has its own four USB Type-C ports, gives you ultimate flexibility.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording.
- Ready for travel –dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Generous 2TB capacity for large projects and extensive backups.
- Integrated 4-port USB-C hub enhances mobile workstation capabilities.
- Optimized for high-quality video recording like Apple ProRes 4K.
- Exceptional durability with IP65 rating and drop resistance.
- Compact, direct-plug design reduces cable clutter.
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Cons
- “Wireless” is a direct plug-in, not truly wireless.
- The hub functionality might not be utilized by all users.
User Impressions: This 2TB version is highly praised by creative professionals who handle large video files. The combination of ample storage, robust build, and the invaluable multi-port hub makes it a go-to device for streamlining their workflow on the move, offering great flexibility.
9. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you’re looking to breathe new life into an older laptop or desktop without breaking the bank, the Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD is an excellent entry-level internal storage upgrade. This 2.5-inch SATA III SSD offers a significant performance boost over traditional hard drives, providing faster startups, application loads, and data transfers. It’s a simple, reliable, and cost-effective way to improve your computer’s responsiveness.
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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.
- 120TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Affordable way to significantly speed up an old computer.
- More durable and reliable than HDDs due to no moving parts.
- Easy to install in most laptops and desktops with a 2.5-inch bay.
- Improved system responsiveness and boot times.
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Cons
- Lower capacity at 256GB, may require supplementary storage.
- SATA III speeds are much slower than modern NVMe drives.
- Not suitable for high-performance gaming or intensive workloads.
User Impressions: Users frequently report a “night and day” difference after upgrading from an HDD to this NS100 SSD. Its affordability and ease of installation are major draws, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious users looking for a noticeable performance bump.
10. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe…
For the ultimate gaming experience on both PC and PS5, the Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink is a titan among internal storage drives. Offering a massive 4TB capacity and harnessing the full power of PCIe Gen 4×4, this NVMe SSD delivers breathtaking speeds and comes with a purpose-built heatsink to ensure optimal performance during even the most intense gaming sessions. It’s the Lexar best SSD for storage for serious gamers who demand the largest libraries and fastest load times.
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Key Features
- Designed to coordinate with your PS5, enhancing your gaming experience.
- 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds for reduced load times and seamless gameplay.
- Tested and approved storage for your PS5 console, allowing games right off the drive.
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- Can be used for PS5 and PC gaming, with HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance.
- Massive 4TB: 3200TBW endurance rating.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Enormous 4TB capacity, perfect for large game libraries.
- Extremely fast PCIe Gen 4×4 speeds for instant loading and smooth gameplay.
- PS5 approved, enabling direct game play from the drive.
- Integrated heatsink for excellent thermal performance.
- High endurance rating ensures long-term reliability.
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Cons
- Internal drive requires compatible M.2 slot and installation.
- Premium price point, but justified by capacity and performance.
User Impressions: Gamers are absolutely thrilled with the Lexar Play SSD, particularly praising its immense storage capacity and the phenomenal speed boost for their PS5 and PC games. The integrated heatsink is a big win, providing easy installation and dependable performance even during marathon gaming sessions.
Finding Your Lexar Best SSD for Storage
As you can see, Lexar offers a wide array of SSDs, each tailored to different needs and budgets. From ultra-portable external drives for mobile content creators to lightning-fast internal NVMe drives for gamers and power users, there’s a Lexar SSD for virtually every scenario.
When choosing your ideal storage solution, consider:
* Capacity: How much space do you really need? (256GB to 4TB+)
* Speed: Is raw speed critical for your tasks (gaming, 4K editing) or is good-enough fine (general backups)?
* Form Factor: Do you need internal (for PC/console upgrades) or external (for portability and device expansion)?
* Durability: Will it be exposed to rough handling or elements?
* Compatibility: What devices will you primarily use it with?
* Budget: SSDs vary widely in price based on capacity and features.
By matching these considerations with the features of the Lexar SSDs reviewed above, you’re sure to find the perfect storage companion that meets your demands.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the main advantage of an SSD over a traditional hard drive (HDD)?
A1: SSDs offer significantly faster speeds (for booting, loading apps, and transferring files), are more durable due to having no moving parts (making them more resistant to drops and shocks), consume less power, and are virtually silent compared to HDDs.
Q2: What do “read” and “write” speeds mean for an SSD?
A2: “Read” speed refers to how quickly the SSD can retrieve data from its storage, while “write” speed indicates how quickly it can save new data. Higher numbers for both mean faster performance, which is crucial for large file transfers, gaming, and video editing.
Q3: What’s the difference between an external and an internal SSD?
A3: An internal SSD is installed directly inside a computer or gaming console, typically in an M.2 slot (NVMe) or a 2.5-inch bay (SATA). It’s generally faster and more integrated. An external SSD connects via a USB cable, offering portability, easy expansion for multiple devices, and plug-and-play convenience without internal installation.
Q4: What are NVMe and SATA SSDs, and which is better?
A4: SATA is an older interface primarily used for 2.5-inch SSDs, with speeds capped around 550MB/s. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a newer protocol designed for PCIe connections, offering dramatically faster speeds (thousands of MB/s) by taking advantage of more direct communication with the CPU. NVMe is generally better for performance-critical tasks like gaming or professional content creation, while SATA SSDs are still great for general use and upgrading older systems.
Q5: Are Lexar SSDs compatible with both Windows and Mac computers?
A5: Yes, most Lexar external SSDs are designed for plug-and-play compatibility with both Windows PCs and Mac computers. Internal SSDs like NVMe drives are also compatible with both, as long as your motherboard or device has the appropriate M.2 slot. You might need to format the drive to a specific file system (e.g., exFAT for cross-platform compatibility) upon first use.
Q6: What does the IP65 rating mean for Lexar portable SSDs?
A6: An IP65 rating indicates that the SSD is protected against dust ingress (the ‘6’) and against low-pressure water jets from any direction (the ‘5’). This means it’s suitable for use in dusty environments and can withstand splashes or light rain, making it very durable for outdoor or travel use.
Q7: Can I use a Lexar NVMe SSD with my PlayStation 5?
A7: Yes, several Lexar NVMe SSDs, particularly those designed with heatsinks like the NM790 and Play series, are tested and approved for use as expandable storage for the PlayStation 5 console. This allows you to store and play PS5 games directly from the SSD.
Q8: What is Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption?
A8: Lexar DataShield is a software-based encryption solution that uses the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with a 256-bit key. This is a very strong encryption method, widely considered secure, that helps protect your sensitive files from unauthorized access if your external SSD is lost or stolen.