Are you tired of excruciatingly long load times that keep you from the action? Do you dream of games booting up in a flash and buttery-smooth gameplay without a hitch? If you’re a serious gamer, upgrading to a high-quality Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your rig. And when it comes to reliability and blistering speed, Lexar and Western Digital (WD) are two brands that consistently deliver.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the Lexar best WD SSD for gaming that’s perfect for your setup? We’ve done the heavy lifting for you! This comprehensive guide dives into 10 top-tier Lexar and WD SSDs, covering both internal NVMe powerhouses and versatile external drives. We’ll break down their features, what makes them tick, and help you find the ideal storage solution to kick your gaming experience up a notch.
Whether you’re building a new gaming PC, upgrading an existing one, or looking for lightning-fast console storage, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in and unlock your gaming potential!
The Best Lexar and WD SSDs for Gamers
Here are our top picks, designed to supercharge your gaming performance:
1. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
If you’re looking to absolutely transform your PC’s performance and obliterate load times, the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X is a true gaming beast. This NVMe internal gaming SSD delivers top-tier speeds, ensuring you spend more time playing and less time waiting. Its generous 2TB capacity means you won’t have to constantly juggle game installations, making it an ideal choice for serious gamers who demand the best.
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Key Features:
- Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for ridiculously short load times.
- 2TB capacity built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND for ample game storage.
- Optional heatsink version available to maintain peak performance during intense sessions.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for drive health monitoring, RGB customization, and Game Mode 2.0.
- Future-forward features like Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds significantly reduce loading screens.
- High endurance and reliability thanks to TLC 3D NAND.
- Heatsink option crucial for sustained performance in high-demand systems.
- Advanced features optimize drive performance specifically for gaming.
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Cons:
- Premium price point for top-tier performance.
- Heatsink version might not fit all laptop configurations.
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User Impressions: Gamers rave about the SN850X’s speed, often noting how it makes older games feel new again and next-gen titles load instantaneously. Many appreciate the heatsink for keeping temperatures in check during extended play.
2. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
Need even more space for your ever-growing game library without compromising on speed? The 4TB version of the WD_BLACK SN850X takes everything great about its smaller siblings and doubles down on capacity. This powerhouse ensures you’ll never have to delete a favorite game again, offering vast storage alongside the lightning-fast performance that defines the SN850X series.
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Key Features:
- Extreme speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for virtually instant game loads.
- Massive 4TB capacity utilizing Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
- Available with an optional heatsink for optimal thermal management.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard for health monitoring, customizable RGB, and Game Mode 2.0.
- Includes Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management for enhanced gaming.
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Pros:
- Unmatched capacity for an internal NVMe SSD, perfect for huge game collections.
- Identical top-tier speed and performance as other SN850X models.
- Ideal for future-proofing your gaming setup.
- Heatsink is a major plus for demanding users.
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Cons:
- Significant investment due to the large capacity and performance.
- Like all NVMe SSDs, requires a compatible M.2 slot.
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User Impressions: Users are thrilled with the sheer volume of games they can store without sacrificing speed. Many consider it a “set it and forget it” solution for storage, praising its consistent performance even under heavy loads.
3. WD_BLACK 1TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
For those who want the incredible speed of the SN850X but perhaps don’t need the massive capacities, the 1TB model is a fantastic sweet spot. It offers the same game-changing performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, making it a perfect upgrade for a primary boot drive or a dedicated game storage solution on a budget that’s still performance-focused. This truly embodies what a Lexar best WD SSD for gaming competitor should offer.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast read/write speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s.
- 1TB capacity, perfect for a core game library and operating system.
- Optional heatsink available to prevent thermal throttling.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard for optimizing drive health and gaming performance.
- Advanced features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of price and performance within the high-end category.
- Dramatically reduces load times and improves overall system responsiveness.
- Reliable Western Digital build quality.
- Ideal for PS5 storage expansion.
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Cons:
- 1TB might eventually fill up for very avid gamers with huge libraries.
- Still a premium product compared to older generation SSDs.
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User Impressions: Many users highlight the noticeable speed increase in boot times and game loading. It’s often recommended as the go-to choice for those seeking a high-performance SSD without breaking the bank on larger capacities.
4. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Stepping into the external storage world, the Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a unique and highly versatile option. It’s not just a fast external drive; it doubles as a portable hub, making it incredibly convenient for content creators and gamers on the go who need to manage multiple devices and transfer files swiftly. Its robust design also means it can handle the rigors of travel.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact and portable for creativity anytime, anywhere.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector, plus 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, and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Supports Apple ProRes footage capture.
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Pros:
- Combines fast portable storage with a functional USB-C hub.
- Excellent read/write speeds for large file transfers and 4K recording.
- Highly durable, ideal for fieldwork or clumsy moments.
- Great for console game archives or portable gaming setups.
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Cons:
- Performance might be lower on systems not fully supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Hub functionality may not be needed by all users.
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User Impressions: Users love its dual functionality, praising the convenience of having both fast storage and extra ports in one compact device. Its ruggedness is also a frequently mentioned positive.
5. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Lexar strikes back with a formidable internal NVMe option, the 1TB NM790 SSD. This drive is a strong contender for the title of Lexar best WD SSD for gaming, offering exceptional PCIe Gen4 performance that goes head-to-head with the best. What sets it apart is its impressive power efficiency, making it an excellent choice for laptops or any system where cooler operation is valued, all while being PlayStation 5 compatible.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write.
- 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 smooth transfers.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and single-sided for laptops.
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Pros:
- Top-tier Gen4 speeds at a potentially more competitive price point.
- Significantly reduced power consumption means less heat and better battery life (for laptops).
- PS5 compatibility makes it a versatile upgrade.
- Single-sided design ensures wide compatibility.
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Cons:
- Performance heavily relies on Host Memory Buffer (HMB), which uses system RAM.
- May not reach advertised max speeds on all systems without proper HMB support.
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User Impressions: Gamers and professionals are impressed by its raw speed and often comment on its efficiency. It’s lauded as a great value for high-performance PCIe Gen4 storage, especially for PS5 owners.
6. WD_BLACK 1TB SN770 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
The WD_BLACK 1TB SN770 is your ticket to fast gaming without breaking the bank. While not quite as bleeding-edge as the SN850X, this PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD still delivers fantastic speeds up to 5,150MB/s. It’s a superb choice for gamers looking for a significant performance boost over older Gen3 drives or traditional HDDs, offering a great balance of speed, capacity, and value.
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Key Features:
- Blazing speeds up to 5,150MB/s read and 4,900MB/s write (1TB and 2TB models).
- PCIe Gen4 interface for enhanced in-game responsiveness and smooth streaming.
- 1TB capacity for a solid game library.
- Supports Microsoft’s DirectStorage technology for future games.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard for optimizing gaming mode and monitoring drive health.
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Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio for a Gen4 SSD.
- Noticeably faster than PCIe Gen3 drives.
- Designed with gaming in mind, supporting DirectStorage.
- Reliable performance from a trusted brand.
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Cons:
- Not as fast as the higher-end SN850X series.
- Does not include a heatsink (must be purchased separately if needed).
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the SN770 as a fantastic upgrade for the cost, often reporting significant improvements in game loading and system boot times. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious builders.
7. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
The Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is built for portability and wide compatibility. This slim and stylish drive isn’t just about good looks; it delivers solid USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, making it perfect for quickly transferring files, expanding console storage, or even working with your iPhone 15 series. Its durable design and data encryption software add peace of mind for users on the go.
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Key Features:
- High-speed data transfer up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Thin, stylish, and durable metal design (weighs 42g, 10.5mm thick).
- Wide compatibility with iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
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Pros:
- Highly portable and discreet.
- Fast enough for most external storage needs, including console games.
- Robust metal construction with enhanced data security.
- Excellent for users with new iPhone 15 devices.
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Cons:
- Performance may vary if the host device doesn’t fully support USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Not suitable for internal PC or PS5 primary game storage.
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User Impressions: Reviewers love the ES3’s compact size and how easily it slips into a pocket. Its compatibility with various devices, including the iPhone 15, is a significant selling point, making it a versatile tool.
8. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
For those who demand uncompromising speed from their external storage, the Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD steps up to the plate. With incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, it’s one of the fastest portable drives available, capable of handling demanding tasks like 4K 60FPS Apple ProRes recording directly from an iPhone 15 Pro. Its sleek, durable design and advanced thermal control ensure peak performance without overheating.
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Key Features:
- 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 ProRes recording up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max.
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, consoles (Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5).
- Unique Thermal Control Design for sustained high performance.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast external speeds, perfect for demanding workflows and gaming.
- Excellent for content creators, especially iPhone 15 Pro users.
- Advanced thermal management prevents performance dips.
- Highly durable and secure.
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on the host device to achieve max speeds.
- More expensive than standard portable SSDs.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the SL500’s speed, especially those using it for professional video work or as high-speed console storage. The build quality and thermal management also receive high praise.
9. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Much like its 1TB counterpart, the Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub offers the same fantastic versatility and performance but with double the storage capacity. This makes it an even more compelling choice for professionals and gamers who need vast portable storage and the convenience of a built-in hub. You can store tons of games, large media files, and still connect multiple peripherals, all in a rugged, travel-ready package.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design with an integrated four-port USB Type-C hub.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Supports Apple ProRes footage capture and seamless 4K recording.
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Pros:
- Massive 2TB capacity for an external portable SSD with a hub.
- Highly versatile for various use cases beyond just gaming.
- Robust construction ensures durability for outdoor or travel use.
- Fast enough for transferring large game files and console game archives.
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Cons:
- The integrated hub might be overkill for some users.
- Higher price tag due to capacity and features.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the extra space provided by the 2TB model, especially those who carry extensive media libraries or multiple game installations. The integrated hub continues to be a highlight for convenience.
10. Western Digital 1TB P40 Game Drive SSD
Rounding out our list is the Western Digital 1TB P40 Game Drive SSD, an external gaming SSD that doesn’t just perform well but also looks good doing it. With customizable RGB lighting and a rugged build, it’s designed specifically for gamers who want fast external storage for their PC or consoles (PS5 and Xbox Series X|S). Its USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface provides impressive speeds, making it ideal for carrying your game library with you.
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Key Features:
- Customizable RGB lighting via the WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only).
- Speeds up to 2,000MB/s with a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles (for storing next-gen games and playing previous-gen).
- 1TB capacity for plenty of games.
- Shock-resistant structure built to survive drops up to two meters.
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Pros:
- Eye-catching RGB lighting adds aesthetic appeal to your setup.
- Very fast external speeds, great for quick transfers and playing older-gen console games.
- Highly durable and robust, perfect for portability.
- Seamless console compatibility for expanded game storage.
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Cons:
- Full speed requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port, which isn’t universally available yet.
- RGB customization is Windows-only.
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User Impressions: Gamers love the P40’s blend of speed, durability, and aesthetics. The RGB lighting is a definite draw, and many appreciate how easily it integrates with their console setups for expanded game storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Getting into the nitty-gritty of SSDs can raise a few questions. Here are some common ones answered:
Q1: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs for gaming?
A1: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs, especially those using PCIe Gen4, are significantly faster than SATA SSDs. They connect directly to your motherboard via a PCIe lane, offering much higher bandwidth and lower latency. For gaming, this translates to drastically reduced load times and smoother asset streaming, which is crucial for modern, graphically intensive titles. SATA SSDs are still good, but NVMe drives like the WD_BLACK SN850X offer a superior gaming experience.
Q2: Do I need a heatsink for my NVMe SSD?
A2: For high-performance NVMe SSDs, especially PCIe Gen4 drives that can generate a lot of heat under sustained load, a heatsink is highly recommended. It helps dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling which can slow down your drive’s performance during intense gaming sessions or large file transfers. Drives like the WD_BLACK SN850X offer optional heatsink versions, which is a big plus.
Q3: Can these SSDs be used with PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X|S?
A3: Yes, many of the listed internal and external SSDs are compatible with the latest generation of consoles. For PS5, internal NVMe SSDs like the WD_BLACK SN850X or Lexar NM790 are excellent for expanding your primary game storage (make sure they meet PS5’s specific speed requirements and preferably have a heatsink). External SSDs like the Lexar ES3, SL500, or WD_BLACK P40 are great for storing PS4/Xbox One games and archiving PS5/Xbox Series X|S games to free up internal console storage.
Q4: What’s the benefit of a higher read/write speed for gaming?
A4: Higher read/write speeds directly impact how quickly game assets (textures, levels, character models) can be loaded from the drive into your system’s RAM and VRAM. This means faster game loading times, quicker transitions between game areas, and reduced stuttering, especially in open-world games. For titles supporting Microsoft’s DirectStorage API, these high speeds will be even more critical.
Q5: What is “Host Memory Buffer (HMB)” and why is it important for some SSDs?
A5: Host Memory Buffer (HMB) is a technology that allows a DRAM-less NVMe SSD to use a small portion of your computer’s system RAM as a cache. This helps the SSD achieve higher performance, especially for random read/write operations, without the added cost of dedicated DRAM on the drive itself. The Lexar NM790 utilizes HMB 3.0 to deliver its impressive speeds efficiently.
Q6: Should I get a Lexar or a WD SSD for gaming?
A6: Both Lexar and Western Digital offer excellent SSDs for gaming, and the “best” choice often comes down to specific models, features, and your budget. WD_BLACK drives are renowned for their raw gaming performance and features like the Dashboard, while Lexar offers competitive speeds often with a focus on power efficiency or unique features like the Professional Go Portable SSD with an integrated hub. Ultimately, comparing individual models like we’ve done here for the Lexar best WD SSD for gaming helps you find the perfect fit.
Q7: How much SSD storage do I really need for gaming?
A7: This depends on your gaming habits. A 500GB SSD can hold your OS and a few large games, but 1TB is a much more comfortable starting point for most gamers. If you play many AAA titles that can easily exceed 100GB each, or if you plan to store your entire game library, 2TB or even 4TB (like the WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB) will be much more suitable to avoid constant game management.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SSD can dramatically improve your gaming experience, from shaving off precious seconds from load times to making your entire system feel snappier. Both Lexar and Western Digital (WD) offer an impressive array of solid-state drives that cater to every type of gamer and budget. Whether you opt for the blistering speeds of an internal NVMe like the WD_BLACK SN850X or the versatile portability of a Lexar Professional Go, you’re making a smart investment in your gaming future.
Hopefully, this breakdown helps you identify the Lexar best WD SSD for gaming that fits your needs perfectly. Happy gaming!