Ever feel like your PC is dragging its feet, especially when loading games or opening hefty files? You’re not alone! Many PC users hit a performance wall, and often, the culprit isn’t your processor or RAM, but your outdated storage. That’s where Solid State Drives (SSDs) come in, offering a massive leap in speed and responsiveness compared to traditional hard drives. Lexar has been a long-standing player in delivering reliable, high-performance options. If you’re hunting for the Lexar best advice for SSD for PC upgrades, you’ve landed in the right spot. We’re about to dive deep into Lexar’s top SSD offerings, breaking down what makes each one tick, so you can pick the perfect upgrade for your rig.
Why Lexar SSDs Stand Out
Lexar has built a strong reputation for producing storage solutions that balance performance, reliability, and value. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a creative professional, or just someone looking for a snappier daily computing experience, Lexar has an SSD tailored for your needs. From blazing-fast NVMe drives to dependable SATA options and ultra-portable external SSDs, their range covers all bases.
How to Choose the Right Lexar SSD for Your PC
Before we jump into the specific products, here’s some quick Lexar best advice for SSD for PC selection. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision and get the absolute best bang for your buck:
- Internal vs. External: Do you need a permanent upgrade inside your desktop or laptop (internal), or a portable drive for transferring files on the go (external)?
- NVMe vs. SATA:
- NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs are the fastest, connecting directly to your motherboard via a PCIe slot. They come in M.2 form factors, perfect for modern PCs and laptops, and offer incredible speeds for gaming, content creation, and heavy workloads.
- SATA (Serial ATA) SSDs are a significant upgrade from traditional HDDs, offering good speeds at a more affordable price. They typically come in a 2.5-inch form factor, fitting into standard drive bays in older desktops and some laptops.
- Capacity: How much storage do you need? For a boot drive and a few games, 500GB-1TB might suffice. For a primary drive with lots of games, media, or creative projects, 2TB or more is advisable.
- Speed: PCIe Gen4 NVMe drives are incredibly fast, Gen5 is even faster for cutting-edge systems, while SATA drives are more budget-friendly. Match the speed to your motherboard’s capabilities and your typical workload.
- Compatibility: Always check your motherboard manual to ensure you have the correct M.2 slots (and if they support PCIe Gen3, Gen4, or Gen5) or available 2.5-inch drive bays and SATA ports.
Now, let’s explore some of Lexar’s best SSDs!
The Top 10 Lexar SSDs for Your PC
1. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
This drive is a powerhouse for those serious about their PC’s performance. It’s not just fast; it’s seriously fast, offering incredible read and write speeds that’ll make your games load in a flash and your large files transfer almost instantly. Plus, it’s designed with efficiency in mind, using less power than many other Gen4 SSDs, which is great for keeping your system cool and your energy bill down. If you’re a hardcore gamer, a content creator, or a professional needing top-tier performance, this Lexar SSD is a phenomenal choice.
- 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 transfers
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen4 speeds for rapid loading and transfers.
- Energy-efficient design reduces power consumption and heat.
- High endurance (TBW) ensures long-term reliability.
- Excellent for gaming, content creation, and professional use.
- PS5 compatible for console gamers needing more storage.
- Compact, single-sided design fits well in laptops.
- Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard to achieve full speeds.
- May be overkill for basic PC users with less demanding needs.
- User Impressions: Users consistently praise its speed and value, noting significant improvements in boot times and application responsiveness. Many highlight its ease of installation and solid performance for gaming and demanding workloads, even with its efficient, DRAM-less design.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
This isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a mobile workstation in your pocket! Designed for creatives on the move, it boasts not only blazing-fast data transfer speeds but also an integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports. This means you can offload footage, charge devices, and connect peripherals all with one compact tool. Its robust, water-resistant design also ensures your precious data is safe wherever your creative journey takes you.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for portability
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for full insertion)
- Captures brilliant Apple ProRes footage with ease
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Excellent portability and compact form factor.
- Integrated USB-C hub adds significant versatility for on-the-go professionals.
- Fast transfer speeds ideal for 4K video recording and large file backups.
- Rugged design provides peace of mind in challenging environments.
- Great for Apple ProRes recording, making it ideal for iPhone users.
- Cons:
- Type-C connection might require adapters for some older devices.
- The “wireless plug-and-play” refers to direct connection without a separate cable, which some users might misunderstand.
- User Impressions: Users love the convenience of the built-in hub and its robust build quality. It’s especially popular among photographers and videographers who need reliable, fast storage with extra connectivity while working remotely.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you’re looking for an affordable yet impactful upgrade for an older laptop or desktop, the Lexar NS100 is a fantastic entry point. Swapping out a traditional hard drive for this 2.5-inch SATA SSD will breathe new life into your system, offering significantly faster boot times, quicker application launches, and smoother overall responsiveness. It’s a simple, cost-effective way to get better performance without overhauling your entire PC.
- Key Features:
- 256GB capacity
- Upgrade for laptop or desktop computers
- 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
- Pros:
- Budget-friendly upgrade for older systems.
- Dramatically improves boot times and application loading compared to HDDs.
- Increased durability due to no moving parts.
- Easy to install in most standard 2.5-inch drive bays.
- Good performance for general computing tasks.
- Cons:
- SATA speeds are significantly slower than NVMe.
- Lower capacity might be restrictive for users with many large files or games.
- User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight the NS100 as an excellent value proposition for rejuvenating older PCs. They appreciate the noticeable speed bump and the easy installation process, making it a popular choice for first-time SSD upgraders.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
This 2TB version of the Professional Go Portable SSD with an integrated hub offers all the same amazing features as its 1TB counterpart but with double the storage. For professionals who deal with huge video files, massive photo libraries, or extensive project backups, this extra capacity is a game-changer. It means less worrying about running out of space and more focus on your creative workflow, all while enjoying the convenience of a built-in USB-C hub and a rugged, travel-ready design.
- Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- Ultra-compact design for portability
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from cables
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage with ease
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, adapters, and cables
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Large 2TB capacity for extensive media files and projects.
- Integrated USB-C hub is incredibly convenient for connectivity and charging.
- Rugged IP65 rating and drop resistance make it highly durable for fieldwork.
- High speeds are perfect for 4K video editing and professional use.
- Excellent for creative professionals, especially those using Apple ProRes.
- Cons:
- Premium price point due to capacity and integrated hub features.
- Still relies on Type-C, which might require adapters for some legacy devices.
- User Impressions: Users value the generous storage coupled with the practical hub, calling it an essential tool for their professional kits. The durability is frequently praised, assuring users their valuable data is safe on the go.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
Step into the future of storage with the Lexar NM1090 PRO. This SSD is an absolute beast, pushing the boundaries of speed with PCIe 5.0 technology. If you’ve got a cutting-edge system with AMD Ryzen or Intel i9, this drive will unleash unparalleled performance, reducing load times dramatically, speeding up AI tasks, and making your gaming experience buttery smooth. It’s not just fast; it’s insanely fast, built for the most demanding users and next-gen applications.
- Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- PCIe 5.0 technology with blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s
- Accelerates load times by 200%
- Optimized 6nm controller for heat control and efficiency
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache for enhanced data transfer
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for significantly boosted game loads
- Pros:
- Unmatched PCIe 5.0 speeds, ideal for future-proofed systems.
- Massive performance boost for gaming, AI, and professional applications.
- Advanced thermal management ensures sustained high performance.
- DRAM and SLC caching provide superior responsiveness.
- DirectStorage compatibility for next-gen gaming.
- Cons:
- Requires a motherboard with PCIe 5.0 support, which limits compatibility to very new systems.
- High price point due to cutting-edge technology.
- May generate more heat than lower-gen drives, potentially requiring a heatsink (though often included or motherboard-provided).
- User Impressions: Early adopters are blown away by the speed, reporting instant boot-ups and game loads. It’s highly recommended for users building top-tier gaming rigs or powerful workstations who want the absolute fastest storage available.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible…
The Lexar SL500 is a marvel of portability and performance. This sleek, ultra-thin portable SSD delivers incredible speeds of up to 2000MB/s, making it perfect for quick transfers of large files, 4K video recording directly from your iPhone 15 Pro, or even expanding storage for your gaming console. Its durable metal design and unique thermal control mean it can handle intense workloads without breaking a sweat, all while easily slipping into your pocket.
- Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- 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 (mobile, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5)
- 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
- Pros:
- Exceptional portable speeds for demanding tasks like 4K video recording.
- Highly durable and extremely portable design.
- Broad compatibility across multiple devices, including consoles.
- Thermal control ensures consistent high performance.
- Includes encryption software for data security.
- Ideal for iPhone 15 Pro users for direct video capture.
- Cons:
- Full speeds require a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port, which isn’t universally available.
- May be overkill for users only needing basic file storage.
- User Impressions: Customers love the SL500 for its pocketable size, robust feel, and impressive speeds. iPhone 15 Pro users, in particular, rave about its seamless integration for ProRes video recording, highlighting its reliability and efficiency.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD, Supports Apple 4K…
This version of the Professional Go Portable SSD streamlines its design for pure, unadulterated speed and convenience, without the integrated hub of its sibling. It’s built for creators who need to expand their smartphone’s storage, capture seamless Apple ProRes 4K 60 fps footage, or just quickly back up massive files. Its blazing-fast performance and rugged, travel-ready build make it an indispensable tool for anyone whose work or passion takes them out of the office.
- Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- Ultra-compact, wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector
- Expands smartphone storage instantly for seamless data transfers
- Blazing-fast performance: 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Supports Apple ProRes 4K 60 fps recording with no dropped frames
- Compatible with mobile phones, iPads, tablets, Macs, PCs, cameras, and more
- IP65 dust- and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Comes with a protective silicone case
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Excellent for expanding smartphone storage and direct video recording.
- Blazing-fast speeds for 4K video work and large file transfers.
- Extremely durable with IP65 rating and drop resistance.
- Highly portable and convenient with direct Type-C connection.
- Broad compatibility with various devices.
- Cons:
- No integrated hub like its “w/Hub” counterpart.
- Some compatibility testing is still in progress for newer devices.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate its robust build, compact size, and rapid transfer rates for media files. It’s frequently recommended for mobile content creators who prioritize durability and speed for on-location shoots without needing extra ports.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Lexar 480GB NQ100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
The Lexar NQ100 is another solid option for upgrading older systems or as a secondary storage drive, offering a bit more breathing room than the 256GB NS100. With 480GB of space, you can comfortably store your operating system, essential applications, and a decent library of games or media files. It provides a noticeable performance boost over traditional hard drives at a very competitive price, delivering reliable speed and durability for everyday tasks.
- Key Features:
- 480GB capacity
- Upgrade for laptop or desktop computers
- Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
- Better performance and reliability than with a traditional hard drive
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- 168TBW endurance rating
- Three-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Affordable way to significantly speed up an older PC or laptop.
- Good capacity for a boot drive plus applications and some data.
- More durable and reliable than HDDs.
- Easy to install in standard 2.5-inch bays.
- Slightly faster read speeds than the NS100 model.
- Cons:
- Limited by SATA III interface speeds compared to NVMe drives.
- Not ideal for very large game libraries or intensive video editing.
- User Impressions: Customers often choose the NQ100 for its balance of price, performance, and capacity for basic to moderate use. Many commend it for revitalizing sluggish computers, turning them into responsive machines suitable for web browsing, office tasks, and light gaming.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible…
Just like its 2TB sibling, the 1TB Lexar SL500 Portable SSD offers incredible speed and a sleek, robust design, but in a more compact and perhaps more budget-friendly capacity. If you need lightning-fast external storage for capturing 4K video, running virtual machines, or simply moving large files between devices without sacrificing portability or durability, this 1TB option is a perfect fit. It’s a powerful tool for creatives and professionals who are always on the go.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- 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 (mobile, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5)
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Exceptional transfer speeds for a portable drive.
- Ultra-portable and durable metal construction.
- Ideal for direct recording of high-resolution video from compatible iPhones.
- Broad compatibility across platforms and devices.
- Built-in thermal control for sustained performance.
- Includes data encryption for added security.
- Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speeds.
- 1TB might be limiting for some intensive video projects.
- User Impressions: Users are impressed by the SL500’s compact footprint and its ability to handle demanding tasks like 4K video editing on the fly. Its compatibility with iPhone 15 Pro models for direct recording is a highlight for many mobile videographers.
- See it on Amazon here
10. Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable SSD…
The Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD is your go-to device for expanding connectivity and storage in one compact, rugged package. This drive is not just fast; it’s incredibly versatile with its built-in hub featuring four USB Type-C connectors that can also deliver up to 30W of power. It’s designed for the adventurous professional, combining impressive transfer speeds with exceptional durability, making it perfect for field use, travel, or a tidy desk setup.
- Key Features:
- Blazing fast transfer speeds: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2)
- Expanded device connectivity: built-in hub with 4 USB Type-C connectors (up to 30W power)
- Rugged durability: IP65 dust- and water-resistance, 3.3′ (1m) anti-drop protection
- Compact and portable design: 1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32″, just 0.5 oz
- Universal compatibility: Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, iOS, Android 4.4+, iPhone 15 series, PCs, Macs, tablets, cameras
- Pros:
- Excellent blend of speed, storage, and connectivity in one device.
- Built-in hub with power delivery is highly convenient for mobile setups.
- Outstanding durability for outdoor and travel use.
- Extremely lightweight and small, making it truly pocketable.
- Broad compatibility across virtually all modern operating systems and devices.
- Cons:
- While fast, its speeds are slightly lower than USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives.
- The wireless plug-and-play feature (direct connection) might feel bulky on some devices depending on port placement.
- User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the sheer utility of this device, especially the integrated hub for connecting multiple peripherals. Its ruggedness and compact size make it a favorite for traveling professionals who need a versatile and reliable tool.
- See it on Amazon here
Key Considerations Before Making Your Pick
You’ve seen a range of Lexar SSDs, from lightning-fast internal NVMe drives to incredibly versatile portable options. Here are a few final thoughts to help you solidify your choice:
- Future-Proofing: If you’re building a new PC or have a modern motherboard, investing in a PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 NVMe drive will offer the best long-term performance.
- Budget: SATA SSDs offer excellent value for money for general use and older systems. Portable SSDs vary widely based on speed and features like integrated hubs.
- Primary Use: Gamers and content creators will benefit most from NVMe speeds. Everyday users or those upgrading older systems can see huge gains from a SATA SSD. Professionals on the go will find Lexar’s portable SSDs invaluable.
Conclusion
Upgrading to an SSD is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your PC’s performance, and Lexar offers a fantastic lineup to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an internal speed demon to slash loading times or a rugged, portable powerhouse for your creative ventures, we’ve covered some fantastic options offering you the Lexar best advice for SSD for PC performance boosts imaginable. Take into account your specific needs, budget, and system compatibility, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a faster, more responsive computing experience with a Lexar SSD.
FAQ: Your Lexar SSD Questions Answered
Q1: What’s the main difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs?
A1: The main difference lies in speed and interface. NVMe SSDs use the PCIe interface, connecting directly to your motherboard, offering much higher read/write speeds (thousands of MB/s) ideal for gaming, video editing, and heavy workloads. SATA SSDs use the SATA interface, which is slower (maxing out around 550MB/s) but still significantly faster than traditional hard drives, and more affordable. They typically come in a 2.5-inch form factor.
Q2: How much storage capacity do I really need for my PC?
A2: It depends on your usage:
* 250-500GB: Good for a boot drive and essential applications.
* 1TB: Ideal for a boot drive, several games, and general file storage.
* 2TB+: Recommended for gamers with large libraries, content creators, or users with extensive media files and demanding applications. It’s always a good idea to get more than you think you need if your budget allows.
Q3: Can I use a Lexar portable SSD as my main PC drive?
A3: While possible in some niche scenarios (e.g., running an OS from a portable drive), it’s generally not recommended for your main PC drive. Portable SSDs are designed for external storage, backup, and on-the-go data transfer. Internal NVMe or SATA SSDs are optimized for continuous, high-performance operation as a primary system drive.
Q4: Is upgrading to an SSD difficult for a PC?
A4: For most users, it’s quite straightforward!
* 2.5-inch SATA SSDs: Simply plug into a SATA data and power cable in your desktop, or swap out an existing 2.5-inch drive in a laptop.
* M.2 NVMe SSDs: Require an M.2 slot on your motherboard and usually involve screwing down a small drive.
Cloning your old drive or performing a fresh OS installation are the trickiest parts, but many online guides and tools can help.
Q5: What does PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 mean for my SSD performance?
A5: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) refers to the interface standard. Each “generation” doubles the bandwidth of the previous one.
* PCIe Gen3: Common in older systems, offers good NVMe speeds (around 3500MB/s).
* PCIe Gen4: Found in modern systems, doubles Gen3 speeds (up to 7000-7500MB/s), significantly reducing load times.
* PCIe Gen5: The latest and fastest, doubling Gen4 speeds again (up to 14000MB/s+), for cutting-edge gaming, AI, and professional applications on the newest motherboards.
You’ll only get these speeds if your motherboard and CPU support the corresponding PCIe generation.
Q6: How do I check if my PC is compatible with a Lexar NVMe SSD?
A6: You need to check your motherboard specifications. Look for “M.2 slot” and verify if it supports NVMe (sometimes older M.2 slots only support SATA M.2). Also, check which PCIe generation (Gen3, Gen4, Gen5) the slot supports. Your motherboard manual or the manufacturer’s website will have this information.
Q7: What’s the importance of TBW (Terabytes Written) for an SSD?
A7: TBW (Terabytes Written) is an endurance rating that indicates how much data can be written to the SSD over its lifespan before its reliability might start to decline. A higher TBW means the drive is rated for more data writes and theoretically has a longer lifespan, especially for heavy users like content creators or server environments. For most casual users, even a lower TBW rating will last many years beyond the warranty period.