Gaming has evolved, and so have the demands on your system. Gone are the days when a traditional HDD could keep up with massive open worlds, intricate textures, and lightning-fast load screens. Today, if you’re serious about your gaming experience, a high-performance PCIe SSD is non-negotiable. It’s the upgrade that can truly transform your gameplay, cutting down wait times and boosting overall system responsiveness. But with so many options out there, how do you find the Lexar best PCIe SSD for gaming that’s right for your rig, or indeed, the best from any top brand?
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a curated list of 10 fantastic PCIe SSDs, including some stellar options from Lexar, that promise to deliver the speed and reliability every gamer craves. Whether you’re building a new PC, upgrading an existing one, or looking for PS5 expansion, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Why a PCIe NVMe SSD for Gaming?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly touch on why these drives are essential. PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs use a direct connection to your motherboard’s CPU, bypassing the slower SATA interface. This allows for incredibly fast data transfer speeds, significantly reducing game load times, map transitions, and even speeding up system boot-ups. They’re a game-changer for modern titles that benefit from rapid asset streaming and direct storage capabilities.
Our Top 10 Picks for Gaming PCIe SSDs
Here are our selections, designed to supercharge your gaming PC or console.
Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
This Lexar NM1090 PRO is an absolute beast, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with current SSD technology. If you’re building a bleeding-edge gaming PC with the latest AMD Ryzen or Intel i9 processors, this Gen5 drive is designed to leverage every bit of that raw power. It’s not just about speed; it’s about minimizing every bottleneck to deliver an ultra-smooth, next-gen gaming experience, making it a strong contender for the title of Lexar best PCIe SSD for gaming.
-
Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology with read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s.
- Accelerates load times by 200%.
- Powerful 6nm controller for optimized heat control and efficient performance.
- Ideal for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks and accelerating data processing.
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache enhance data transfer and system responsiveness.
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for significantly boosted game loads and reduced delays.
-
Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen5 speeds for future-proof performance.
- Excellent for high-end gaming and professional applications.
- Advanced thermal management for sustained performance.
- Optimized for DirectStorage, crucial for next-gen games.
- DRAM cache ensures consistent high performance.
-
Cons:
- Requires a compatible PCIe 5.0 motherboard and CPU.
- Premium price point.
- May generate more heat than Gen4 drives, potentially needing a robust cooling solution (though controller optimizes it).
-
User Impressions: Gamers rave about the unparalleled speed and responsiveness, noting immediate differences in game loading and asset streaming. Many users praise its performance with demanding tasks and the significant boost it provides to overall system snappiness.
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
The Lexar NM790 1TB offers an incredible balance of performance and efficiency, making it a fantastic choice for a wide range of gamers. With Gen4 speeds that are twice as fast as PCIe Gen 3, this drive ensures your games load quickly and play smoothly. It’s especially noteworthy for its power efficiency, making it a smart pick for gaming laptops and systems where every watt counts.
-
Key Features:
- 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 smooth transfer speeds 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.
-
Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 performance for the price.
- Remarkable power efficiency.
- PS5 compatible for console gamers.
- Single-sided design is great for compact builds and laptops.
- Reliable with a high TBW and 5-year warranty.
-
Cons:
- No integrated heatsink, which might be a concern for sustained heavy loads in some systems.
-
User Impressions: Users frequently highlight its impressive speed for its price point and its seamless integration into both PCs and PS5s. Laptop users especially appreciate its low power consumption and single-sided design.
Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe
For those who need serious storage capacity alongside top-tier performance, the Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink is a dream come true. Specifically designed with PS5 compatibility in mind, this drive lets you expand your game library without worrying about deleting titles. The included heatsink is a massive bonus, ensuring consistent performance even during the most demanding gaming marathons.
-
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.
- 4TB capacity with 3200TBW endurance.
- Tested and approved storage for PS5, allowing games to be played directly.
- Unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved PC gaming performance.
- Five-year limited warranty.
-
Pros:
- Huge 4TB capacity for extensive game libraries.
- Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management.
- Officially approved and tested for PS5, no fuss.
- Excellent Gen4 speeds for both console and PC gaming.
- High endurance rating.
-
Cons:
- Heatsink might make it too tall for some very compact PC builds.
- Higher price due to capacity and heatsink.
-
User Impressions: PS5 owners particularly love this drive for its “install and forget” nature and the sheer volume of games it can hold. PC gamers also praise its reliable performance and the peace of mind the heatsink provides during intense sessions.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
The 2TB version of the Lexar NM790 offers all the fantastic features of its 1TB sibling but doubles down on storage, providing ample space for a sizable game library. This drive continues to impress with its blend of speed, efficiency, and reliability, solidifying its place as a strong contender when looking for the Lexar best PCIe SSD for gaming with generous capacity.
-
Key Features:
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- 1500TBW endurance rating.
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth transfer speeds.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops.
- Five-year limited warranty.
-
Pros:
- Large 2TB capacity for extensive game storage.
- Excellent Gen4 performance and power efficiency.
- PS5 compatible.
- Ideal for laptops and thin builds due to single-sided design.
- High endurance and 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
-
Cons:
- No integrated heatsink, which might be a consideration for desktop users with less airflow.
-
User Impressions: Many users find this 2TB model to be the sweet spot, offering plenty of space without breaking the bank, while maintaining stellar speeds. Its PS5 compatibility is often highlighted as a major selling point.
Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
If you’re building a cutting-edge PC and want to experience the absolute peak of current storage performance without needing massive capacity right away, the 1TB Lexar NM1090 PRO is a fantastic choice. It delivers breathtaking Gen5 speeds, ensuring that your system is ready for the future of gaming and demanding applications.
-
Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology with read/write speeds up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s.
- Accelerates load times by 200%.
- Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control for smooth performance.
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks.
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds.
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads.
-
Pros:
- Extremely fast Gen5 performance, future-proof.
- Optimized for DirectStorage and high-end CPUs.
- Advanced thermal management at the controller level.
- DRAM cache for consistent performance.
-
Cons:
- Requires a compatible PCIe 5.0 system to utilize full speed.
- Premium price per GB compared to Gen4.
-
User Impressions: Early adopters praise the sheer speed of this drive, noting how it makes everything feel instantaneous. Users report significant improvements in game loading and high-resolution video editing.
Lexar 2TB NM1090 w/HeatSink SSD PCIe Gen5x4 NVMe M.2 2280
This version of the Lexar NM1090 takes Gen5 performance to the next level by integrating a powerful heatsink with a fan and RGB lighting. If you’re pushing your system to its limits and want guaranteed thermal stability with a touch of flair, this 2TB drive is an outstanding option. It’s truly a top-tier choice for enthusiasts building the ultimate gaming rig.
-
Key Features:
- Blazing-fast PCIe 5.0 speeds of up to 12000MB/s read, 11000MB/s write.
- Nearly 2x faster than PCIe 4.0.
- Unique and potent heatsink features a heat-blasting fan plus bright RGB lighting.
- DRAM-based with SLC dynamic cache to improve performance and reduce latency.
- Supports Microsoft DirectStorage.
- Compatible with Intel 13th and 14th gen and AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs.
- Lexar DiskMaster disk management tool (coming 2024) for optimization.
- Five-year limited warranty.
-
Pros:
- Exceptional Gen5 speeds with robust thermal management.
- Integrated fan and RGB heatsink for optimal cooling and aesthetics.
- DRAM cache ensures peak performance.
- DirectStorage support for future game titles.
- Strong compatibility with modern CPUs.
-
Cons:
- Heatsink with fan might be larger than some standard M.2 slots, potentially interfering with other components.
- Premium price.
- Fan noise could be a minor concern for some users.
-
User Impressions: Gamers absolutely love the combination of raw speed and the effective cooling solution. The RGB lighting is often a hit for those with aesthetic builds. The stability during prolonged heavy use is frequently highlighted.
Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen 4×4, Gen 5×2
Samsung is a household name in SSDs, and the 990 EVO Plus continues that legacy, offering a highly optimized drive with impressive performance. What makes this 2TB drive stand out is its unique flexibility, supporting both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2, making it a great transitional option if you’re not fully ready for Gen5.
-
Key Features:
- GROUNDBREAKING READ/WRITE SPEEDS: up to 7,250/6,300MB/s using latest NAND.
- LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY: 2TB with Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0.
- EXCEPTIONAL THERMAL CONTROL: Efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller.
- OPTIMIZED PERFORMANCE: Compatible with PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 for more bandwidth.
- NEVER MISS AN UPDATE: Magician Software for firmware, encryption, and health monitoring.
-
Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 performance with some Gen5 capabilities.
- High-endurance and reliable Samsung NAND.
- Efficient thermal control thanks to nickel-coated controller.
- Samsung Magician software provides valuable utility.
- Versatile compatibility.
-
Cons:
- Full Gen5 speeds aren’t achieved with Gen5x2 interface.
- No integrated heatsink (though controller is optimized).
-
User Impressions: Users appreciate Samsung’s reputation for reliability and the consistent, high performance of the 990 EVO Plus. The Magician software is often cited as a useful tool for managing the drive.
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN850X is specifically engineered for gamers, offering top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance that significantly reduces load times and ensures a buttery-smooth gaming experience. The 2TB version provides a generous amount of space for your favorite titles, and with an optional heatsink, it’s ready for intense action.
-
Key Features:
- Top-tier performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- 2TB capacity built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
- Optional heatsink version to maintain peak performance.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for health monitoring, RGB customization (heatsink versions), and Game Mode 2.0.
- Future-forward features: Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
-
Pros:
- Exceptional Gen4 gaming performance.
- Optional heatsink is a great addition for thermal management.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard offers useful features for gamers.
- Designed specifically for gaming with features like Game Mode 2.0.
- Reliable Western Digital NAND.
-
Cons:
- Full features of the dashboard are Windows-only.
- Heatsink is optional, meaning some models don’t include it.
-
User Impressions: This drive is a firm favorite among PC gamers for its consistent speed and the noticeable reduction in load times. The WD_BLACK Dashboard and Game Mode features are frequently praised for enhancing the gaming experience.
WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
For the ultimate gaming library, the 4TB WD_BLACK SN850X is an absolute powerhouse. You’ll never have to worry about uninstalling games again, with massive space combined with blistering Gen4 speeds. This is the drive for serious collectors and streamers who demand both performance and capacity without compromise.
-
Key Features:
- Top-tier performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- Massive 4TB capacity built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
- Optional heatsink version to help maintain peak performance.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) monitors drive health, RGB customization (heatsink versions), and Game Mode 2.0.
- Future-forward features: Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
-
Pros:
- Enormous 4TB capacity for an unparalleled game library.
- Outstanding Gen4 gaming performance.
- Optional heatsink for superior thermal management.
- Dedicated gaming features via WD_BLACK Dashboard.
- Reliable and durable.
-
Cons:
- Premium price due to the very high capacity.
- Dashboard features are Windows-only.
-
User Impressions: This drive is highly recommended by users who need vast amounts of storage for their games. The combination of speed and capacity is a huge draw, with many noting how it eliminates storage anxiety.
Lexar NM620 SSD 1TB PCIe Gen3 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
While Gen4 and Gen5 steal the spotlight, a well-optimized PCIe Gen3 drive like the Lexar NM620 still offers a significant upgrade over traditional SATA SSDs, especially for users with older motherboards or those on a tighter budget. This 1TB drive provides solid performance for gaming and everyday use, proving that you don’t always need the absolute latest tech to see a major improvement.
-
Key Features:
- High-speed PCIe Gen3x4 interface: 3300MB/s read and 3000MB/s write.
- NVMe 1.4 supported.
- M.2 2280 form factor with 3D NAND.
- Get 6x the speed of a SATA-based SSD.
- Ideal for PC enthusiasts and gamers.
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts.
-
Pros:
- Significant speed upgrade over SATA SSDs.
- Cost-effective option for Gen3 systems.
- Durable due to no moving parts.
- Good performance for mainstream gaming and daily tasks.
-
Cons:
- Not as fast as Gen4 or Gen5 drives.
- May become a bottleneck in very high-end gaming rigs using newer CPUs/GPUs.
-
User Impressions: Users frequently commend this drive for its excellent value, highlighting its noticeable speed improvement compared to older drives. It’s often recommended for budget-conscious gamers or for systems that don’t support newer PCIe generations.
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Best Gaming SSD
Choosing the right SSD can dramatically impact your gaming experience, from blazing-fast load times to smoother gameplay. Lexar, as you can see, offers a fantastic range of options, from the bleeding-edge Gen5 drives to highly efficient Gen4 models, solidifying its position among the top brands. Whether you’re looking for the Lexar best PCIe SSD for gaming or considering other top brands like Samsung and WD_BLACK, there’s a drive here to suit every budget and performance need.
When making your decision, consider your motherboard’s PCIe generation compatibility (Gen3, Gen4, or Gen5), the storage capacity you need for your game library, and whether an integrated heatsink is necessary for your system’s thermal management. Whichever you choose, upgrading to a high-speed PCIe NVMe SSD is one of the best investments you can make for your gaming setup.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the difference between PCIe Gen3, Gen4, and Gen5 SSDs for gaming?
A1: These generations refer to the version of the PCIe interface, which dictates the maximum data transfer speeds. Gen3 offers speeds up to ~3,500 MB/s, Gen4 up to ~7,500 MB/s, and Gen5 up to ~14,000 MB/s. For gaming, faster generations mean quicker game loads, less pop-in for textures, and better performance with technologies like Microsoft DirectStorage. However, your motherboard and CPU must support the corresponding PCIe generation to utilize the full speed.
Q2: Do I need a heatsink for my PCIe NVMe SSD?
A2: For PCIe Gen4 and especially Gen5 SSDs, a heatsink is highly recommended. These high-performance drives can generate significant heat under sustained loads, which can lead to thermal throttling – where the drive slows down to prevent overheating. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, ensuring consistent peak performance during intense gaming sessions. Many motherboards now come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can purchase SSDs with pre-installed ones.
Q3: Is a 1TB SSD enough for gaming?
A3: For many gamers, 1TB is a good starting point and can hold several large modern games along with your operating system and other applications. However, with game sizes continuing to grow (many hitting 100GB+), serious gamers or those with a large library might find 2TB or even 4TB more comfortable to avoid constantly uninstalling and reinstalling games.
Q4: Can I use these PCIe SSDs in my PlayStation 5?
A4: Yes, many PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSDs are compatible with the PlayStation 5, provided they meet Sony’s speed and physical dimension requirements (including a heatsink). Look for drives explicitly stating “PS5 Compatible” like some of the Lexar and WD_BLACK models reviewed here. Always check the PS5’s specific requirements before purchasing.
Q5: What is DirectStorage, and why is it important for gaming SSDs?
A5: DirectStorage is a new API from Microsoft that allows games to load assets directly from the NVMe SSD to the GPU, bypassing the CPU. This significantly reduces CPU overhead, decreases load times, and enables game developers to create even larger, more detailed game worlds. A fast PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 NVMe SSD is crucial to fully leverage DirectStorage’s benefits.
Q6: What does “TBW” mean for an SSD?
A6: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written” and is an indicator of an SSD’s endurance or lifespan. It represents the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its reliability might start to degrade. For most gamers, even a modest TBW rating is more than sufficient, as consumer use typically doesn’t approach these limits within the drive’s usable life. Higher TBW indicates greater durability.
Q7: How do I install a PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD?
A7: Installation is generally straightforward. For a desktop PC, locate an available M.2 slot on your motherboard, gently insert the SSD at an angle, and then push it down to secure it with a small screw or plastic clip. For a PS5, there’s a dedicated M.2 expansion slot accessible after removing the console’s cover. Always refer to your motherboard or console manual for specific instructions. After physical installation, you may need to format and initialize the drive in your operating system’s disk management utility.