Ready to give your PC a serious performance boost? Swapping out an old hard drive for a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. You’ll instantly notice faster boot times, quicker application loading, and snappier overall system responsiveness. If you’re specifically looking for the Lexar best 250GB SSD for PC to get that perfect blend of speed, capacity, and value, you’ve come to the right place.
While we’ll dive deep into Lexar’s fantastic offerings around the 250GB mark, we’ll also explore some other top-tier SSDs, including options from Lexar in different capacities and form factors, and even a couple of excellent alternatives from other reputable brands. This guide aims to help you pick the perfect internal SSD for your desktop PC or laptop, ensuring you get the best performance for your budget. Let’s get cracking!
Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
The Lexar NS100 256GB SSD is a fantastic starting point if you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly way to upgrade your PC. This drive epitomizes value, offering a noticeable speed improvement over traditional hard drives without breaking the bank. It’s an excellent choice for breathing new life into an older laptop or desktop, making it a strong contender for the title of Lexar best 250GB SSD for PC users seeking an accessible upgrade. Its 2.5-inch form factor makes it widely compatible, fitting into most standard drive bays.
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
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Excellent value for money
– Significant performance boost over HDDs
– Highly durable due to no moving parts
– Easy to install in most PCs
Cons:
– SATA III speeds are slower than NVMe alternatives
– Lower capacity might be restrictive for heavy users
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise the NS100 for its straightforward installation and immediate impact on system speed. Many highlight it as a perfect entry-level SSD for general computing tasks, offering impressive reliability for the price. It’s often recommended for older systems in need of a quick and affordable performance uplift.
SANDISK SSD Plus 250GB Internal Solid State Drive – SATA…
While our main focus is often on finding the Lexar best 250GB SSD for PC, it’s worth considering alternatives that also offer great performance. The SanDisk SSD Plus 250GB is another fantastic internal solid-state drive that delivers a robust upgrade experience. Known for its reliability and easy installation, this drive provides a solid performance boost for everyday computing, making your PC feel much snappier. It’s a direct competitor to Lexar’s SATA offerings at this capacity, offering similar benefits.
Key Features:
– Easy upgrade for fast boots and application launches
– High capacities for applications and large media files
– Sequential Read speeds of up to 545MB/s and write speeds of up to 515MB/s(2) [1-2TB(1) models]
– Shock-resistant for proven durability(3) – even if you drop your computer
Pros:
– Reputable brand known for flash memory
– Good read/write speeds for a SATA drive
– Very durable and shock-resistant
– Excellent for general daily computing
Cons:
– Maxes out SATA III interface speeds
– Might not be the absolute cheapest option in its class
User Impressions:
Customers love the SanDisk SSD Plus for its hassle-free setup and noticeable improvements in PC performance. Many mention how it transforms older laptops and desktops into much more responsive machines, making it a go-to for affordable and dependable storage upgrades.
Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
For those with a super tight budget or specific light-use cases, the Lexar NS100 128GB SSD offers all the benefits of solid-state technology in a smaller, more affordable package. While not a 250GB unit, it’s a Lexar SATA SSD designed for internal PC use, ideal for someone needing just a boot drive for their operating system and essential applications. It delivers the same shock resistance and performance boost as its larger siblings, proving that even a small upgrade can make a huge difference in responsiveness.
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
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Extremely budget-friendly entry into SSDs
– Boosts system boot and application loading times
– Robust and reliable with no moving parts
– Ideal for use as a dedicated OS drive
Cons:
– Very limited storage capacity for modern needs
– Better for secondary storage or very minimal installations
User Impressions:
Users find this 128GB version of the NS100 perfect for older machines or as a dedicated boot drive. They appreciate the significant speed increase it offers over traditional hard drives, even with its smaller capacity, making it a great option for basic use or those who primarily store files on cloud or network drives.
Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you’re eyeing the Lexar best 250GB SSD for PC but find yourself needing a bit more breathing room for games, applications, and files, the Lexar NS100 512GB SSD is an excellent step up. It offers double the capacity of a typical 250GB drive while maintaining the same reliable SATA III performance and Lexar’s trusted durability. This makes it a fantastic all-rounder for general users, students, or even casual gamers who need decent storage without jumping to NVMe prices.
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
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Excellent balance of capacity and affordability
– Good sequential read speeds for a SATA drive
– Highly durable and reliable
– Simple installation for PC or laptop upgrades
Cons:
– Still limited by SATA III interface speeds
– Not ideal for high-end gaming rigs or intense creative workloads
User Impressions:
Reviewers consistently highlight the 512GB NS100 as a great value proposition. They appreciate the noticeable speed improvements across daily tasks and the ample space for an OS, essential software, and a good chunk of personal files, making it a solid choice for mainstream users.
SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State…
When discussing the best internal SSDs for PC, especially around the 250GB-500GB range, it’s impossible to ignore Samsung’s dominance in the SATA market. The Samsung 870 EVO 500GB is a premium choice, offering unparalleled reliability, compatibility, and consistent performance within the SATA III interface limits. While it’s double the capacity of a 250GB Lexar drive and a different brand, its industry-leading features make it a benchmark for quality and a fantastic option if your budget allows for more storage and top-tier endurance.
Key Features:
– THE SSD ALL-STAR: The latest 870 EVO has indisputable performance, reliability and compatibility built upon Samsung’s pioneering technology.
– EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Enjoy professional level SSD performance which maximizes the SATA interface limit to 560 530 MB/s sequential speeds.
– INDUSTRY-DEFINING RELIABILITY: Meet the demands of every task with up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty.
– MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: The 870 EVO has been compatibility tested for major host systems and applications.
– UPGRADE WITH EASE: Simple plug-in into the standard 2.5 inch SATA form factor.
– SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Helps you easily manage your drive, keep up with updates, and monitor health.
– WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: Experience performance and reliability from the world’s #1 brand for flash memory since 2003.
Pros:
– Best-in-class SATA performance and reliability
– Exceptional endurance (TBW) and a 5-year warranty
– Widely compatible with various systems
– Samsung Magician software adds value and management
– Easy installation process
Cons:
– Higher price point compared to budget options
– Still limited by SATA III speeds, not NVMe
User Impressions:
Samsung 870 EVO users consistently laud its bulletproof reliability, consistent speeds, and seamless compatibility. It’s often chosen by those who demand top-tier performance from a SATA drive and appreciate the peace of mind that comes with Samsung’s brand reputation and comprehensive warranty.
Lexar NM620 SSD 1TB PCIe Gen3 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
Shifting gears from SATA to NVMe, the Lexar NM620 1TB SSD offers a significant leap in performance for those with compatible motherboards. While not a 250GB SATA drive, if you’re building a new PC or upgrading a modern one, an NVMe M.2 SSD like the NM620 is a game-changer. It leverages the PCIe Gen3 interface to deliver speeds that are literally multiple times faster than any SATA drive, making it ideal for PC enthusiasts and gamers who crave rapid data access and reduced loading times.
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:
– Dramatically faster than SATA SSDs
– Compact M.2 form factor saves space
– Excellent for gaming and demanding applications
– Good balance of speed and capacity for its price tier
Cons:
– Requires an M.2 slot on your motherboard
– Not suitable for older PCs lacking NVMe support
User Impressions:
Gamers and power users rave about the NM620’s ability to cut down loading screens and speed up large file transfers. Many note the significant performance difference compared to their previous SATA drives, highlighting its solid value for an entry-level NVMe SSD.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
For the ultimate in internal PC storage performance, the Lexar NM790 2TB SSD stands out. This beast is a PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 drive, offering mind-blowing read and write speeds that are exponentially faster than anything a SATA drive can achieve. While a 2TB drive is far beyond a 250GB target and it’s NVMe, not SATA, if you’re a hardcore gamer, professional creator, or power user, this is the kind of storage that truly unlocks your system’s potential. It even boasts PlayStation 5 compatibility, making it versatile for high-performance needs.
Key Features:
– [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW
– 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 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for smoother transfer
– Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
– Compatible with PlayStation 5
– Single-sided NVMe SSD is perfect for laptops
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds for cutting-edge performance
– Massive 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries or large projects
– Highly durable with excellent TBW rating and 5-year warranty
– Efficient power consumption
– PS5 compatible and laptop-friendly (single-sided)
Cons:
– Premium price point
– Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard to achieve full speeds
– Overkill for basic PC users
User Impressions:
Professional users and serious gamers are thoroughly impressed with the NM790’s raw speed and reliability. They report significantly faster workflows, game loading, and media editing, often calling it a “future-proof” investment for demanding tasks.
SSK External SSD 250GB, USB C SSD External Solid State…
Sometimes, the best solution isn’t always an internal one. If you’re looking for a portable and incredibly fast storage option for your PC, laptop, or even smartphone, the SSK External SSD 250GB is a fantastic choice. While not a Lexar product or an internal drive, it meets the 250GB capacity target and offers blazing USB 3.2 Gen2 speeds. It’s perfect for quickly backing up important files, expanding storage on the go, or even recording 4K ProRes video directly from an iPhone.
Key Features:
– 1050 MB/s Speed: Instantly access your files with blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD read up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s.
– Data Security: Master solid state drives health with S.M.A.R.T. monitoring. TRIM technology ensures consistent write speeds.
– USB-C & USB-A Cable: Both USB-C and USB-A cables featuring rapid USB 3.2 Gen2, this USB SSD effortlessly bridges devices.
– Always Fast: No slowdowns during large file transfers with SLC caching.
– For iPhone 4K ProRes: Our portable SSD empowers 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture for iPhone.
– Less Heat: 2mm thick aluminum alloy case brings superior heat dissipation and premium touch.
– Powerful Portability: Impressive external solid state drives weighs just 36.6g with a dimension of 2.61.50.5 inch.
Pros:
– Extremely fast for an external drive (10Gbps)
– Highly portable and lightweight
– Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for broad compatibility
– Excellent heat dissipation
– Ideal for creative professionals on the go (iPhone ProRes recording)
Cons:
– Not an internal PC component
– 250GB capacity might be small for extensive external backups
– Not a Lexar brand
User Impressions:
Users are consistently impressed by the SSK external SSD’s compact size, robust build, and incredible speed. Many highlight its versatility across various devices and its ability to handle large video files without breaking a sweat, making it a favorite for content creators and those needing quick, portable storage.
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
The Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD is more than just a portable drive; it’s a creative powerhouse on the move. While a 1TB external solution, not an internal 250GB Lexar SSD, it’s designed for professionals who need both high-speed storage and expanded connectivity. Its integrated hub functionality and rugged design make it incredibly versatile for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs to manage data and devices in the field, away from their main PC.
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, along with included adapters and cables, gives you the 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
Pros:
– Dual functionality as a high-speed SSD and USB-C hub
– Excellent for professional content creation (4K ProRes, fast transfers)
– Extremely durable (IP65 rated, drop-resistant)
– Ultra-compact and portable with a 5-year warranty
– Versatile connectivity options
Cons:
– Considerably more expensive than standard portable SSDs
– Not an internal drive for direct PC upgrades
– Hub functionality might not be needed by everyone
User Impressions:
Creative professionals are particularly fond of this Lexar portable SSD, praising its integrated hub for simplifying their mobile workflows. The blend of ruggedness, speed, and versatility for ProRes recording and device connectivity makes it an indispensable tool for on-location shoots and swift backups.
Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, USB…
For those who demand ultimate speed and rugged durability in an external drive, the Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD is an absolute beast. It’s certainly not a 250GB internal drive, but if you need unparalleled performance for large files on the go, this drive delivers. With blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds and an IP66 rating for water and dust resistance, it’s built to withstand extreme environments, making it ideal for outdoor creators, adventurous users, or anyone needing robust, high-capacity external storage.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write speeds for accelerated data transfers
– Rated IP66 to protect against both water and dust, the rugged design is built to withstand up to 3-meter drops and falls
– Supports Apple Pro Res recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
– Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures even at top speeds
– Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles, and more
– Includes Lexar DataShield, a 256-bit AES encryption advanced security solution
– Includes a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Unrivaled portable SSD speeds (2000MB/s)
– Extremely rugged and durable (IP66, 3m drop protection)
– Excellent for professional video recording (ProRes support)
– Advanced thermal control for sustained performance
– Broad compatibility and strong security features
– Generous 5-year limited warranty
Cons:
– Premium price point
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speeds
– Not an internal PC upgrade
User Impressions:
Adventure photographers, videographers, and tech enthusiasts highly recommend the Armor 700 for its incredible speed and “go anywhere” durability. They love its ability to handle demanding tasks like direct video recording and rapid transfers of massive files, all while offering peace of mind in challenging conditions.
FAQs About SSDs for Your PC
Q1: What’s the main difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A1: The key difference lies in speed and connection. SATA SSDs connect via the SATA III interface and typically offer speeds up to around 550MB/s. NVMe SSDs, on the other hand, use the PCIe interface (either Gen3 or Gen4) and can reach speeds of several thousand MB/s (e.g., 3,000MB/s to 7,000MB/s+). NVMe drives are much faster, but require an M.2 slot on your motherboard.
Q2: Why should I choose a 250GB SSD for my PC?
A2: A 250GB SSD is a great entry-level option for budget-conscious users or those with older PCs. It provides enough space for your operating system and essential applications, drastically improving boot times and overall system responsiveness, without the higher cost of larger drives. It’s perfect if you use your PC for basic tasks, browsing, or if you already have a secondary hard drive for bulk storage.
Q3: How do I install an internal SSD in my PC?
A3: For a 2.5-inch SATA SSD, you’ll need a SATA data cable and a SATA power cable from your power supply. Secure the SSD in an available drive bay, connect the cables, and then initialize and format the drive in Windows Disk Management. If you’re replacing your main drive, you’ll need to clone your old drive or perform a fresh OS installation. M.2 NVMe SSDs simply slot into a compatible M.2 slot on your motherboard and are secured with a small screw.
Q4: Can I use an external SSD for gaming?
A4: Yes, you absolutely can! Modern external SSDs with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Gen 2×2 connections offer excellent speeds that are more than sufficient for gaming. While an internal NVMe drive will generally offer the best performance, an external SSD is a great portable solution for carrying your game library between different PCs or consoles.
Q5: What does TBW mean for an SSD?
A5: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written.” It’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance, indicating the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifespan before its warranty expires or before it’s expected to potentially fail. Higher TBW ratings mean the drive is more durable and can handle more writes, making it better for heavy-use scenarios like video editing or constant data transfers.
Q6: Is Lexar a good brand for SSDs?
A6: Yes, Lexar is a well-established and reputable brand in the flash memory industry. They’ve been producing reliable memory cards, USB drives, and SSDs for many years. Lexar SSDs, like the NS100 and NM series, generally offer a good balance of performance, reliability, and value, making them a solid choice for various PC upgrade needs.
Q7: What should I look for when buying an SSD?
A7: Consider these factors:
1. Form Factor: 2.5-inch SATA for older systems/budget, M.2 NVMe for modern performance.
2. Capacity: 250GB for basic, 500GB-1TB for general use, 2TB+ for power users.
3. Interface: SATA III (up to ~550MB/s), PCIe Gen3 NVMe (up to ~3,500MB/s), PCIe Gen4 NVMe (up to ~7,500MB/s).
4. Endurance (TBW): Higher is better for heavy workloads.
5. Warranty: A longer warranty indicates manufacturer confidence.
6. Price: Balance features with your budget.
7. Brand Reputation: Look for trusted brands like Lexar, Samsung, SanDisk.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after the Lexar best 250GB SSD for PC to give an older machine a new lease on life, or you’re exploring high-speed NVMe options for a cutting-edge build, there’s an SSD out there for you. Lexar, along with other top brands, offers a fantastic range of solid-state drives that promise to revolutionize your computing experience with lightning-fast speeds and robust reliability. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you make an informed decision and enjoy the benefits of a super-fast PC!