Are you tired of sluggish boot times and agonizingly slow application loading? It’s 2024, and mechanical hard drives are definitely a thing of the past for anyone serious about performance. Upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the best bang-for-your-buck improvements you can make to your PC or laptop. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one?
Many users find that a 500GB SSD hits the sweet spot between ample storage for their operating system, essential applications, and a decent library of games or media, all without breaking the bank. And when it comes to reliable storage, Lexar is a name that often comes up. So, if you’re on the hunt for the Lexar best 500 gig SSD for the money, you’ve come to the right place!
While we’ll certainly highlight Lexar’s fantastic offerings, including their prime 500GB internal drives, we also want to give you a broader picture of excellent value. We’ve rounded up 10 top SSDs – some are 500GB, some are Lexar, and some are both – to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in and find your next storage upgrade!
Product Reviews
1. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
Looking to give your aging laptop or desktop a new lease on life without spending a fortune? The Lexar 512GB NS100 is an excellent entry-level internal SSD that delivers a noticeable performance boost over traditional hard drives. It’s perfect for everyday users who want faster boot-ups, quicker file transfers, and snappier application launches. This drive proves that upgrading your storage doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
- 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 endurance rating
- Three-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Very affordable way to upgrade from an HDD
- Significantly improves system responsiveness
- Durable design with no moving parts
- Generous 512GB capacity for OS and many applications
- Cons:
- SATA III interface is slower than newer NVMe drives
- Performance might not satisfy power users or gamers
- User Impressions: Customers love the NS100 for its ease of installation and the dramatic difference it makes to older systems. Many report feeling like they have a brand-new computer after installing this budget-friendly SSD. It’s often cited as a prime contender for the Lexar best 500 gig SSD for the money for general use.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280, Up…
If you’re seeking next-level performance for your games and applications, the Crucial P310 500GB SSD is a formidable option. Leveraging PCIe Gen4 NVMe technology, it blows SATA drives out of the water with incredible read and write speeds. This drive isn’t just fast; it’s built with Micron quality, ensuring reliability and robust performance for casual gamers, content creators, and everyday users who demand speed. It’s a fantastic 500GB option for those with compatible M.2 slots.
- Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 6,600 MB/s read and 5,000 MB/s write speeds
- Spacious 500GB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles (e.g., ROG Ally X)
- Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems
- Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation
- Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance
- Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen4 NVMe speeds for quick loading
- Excellent for gaming and demanding applications
- Wide compatibility, including some handheld gaming devices
- Reputable Micron quality and reliability
- Cons:
- Requires an M.2 slot on your motherboard
- May not reach full Gen4 speeds on older PCIe Gen3 systems
- User Impressions: Users rave about the speed difference, particularly in game load times and system responsiveness. Its easy installation and impressive performance-to-price ratio make it a popular choice for those upgrading from SATA or older NVMe drives.
- See it on Amazon here
3. SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA SSD 500GB 2.5” Internal Solid State…
Samsung’s 870 EVO 500GB SATA SSD is often considered the gold standard for SATA drives, and for good reason. It offers an incredible blend of performance, industry-leading reliability, and broad compatibility that’s hard to beat. If your system doesn’t support NVMe or you simply prefer the tried-and-true SATA interface, the 870 EVO delivers maximum SATA speeds and comes with Samsung’s renowned Magician software for easy drive management. It’s an all-star performer in the 500GB internal SSD space.
- Key Features:
- Maximizes the SATA interface limit to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds
- Accelerates write speeds and maintains long-term high performance with a larger variable buffer
- Industry-defining reliability: up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty
- Compatibility tested for major host systems and applications
- Simple 2.5-inch SATA form factor for easy upgrade in desktops or laptops
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE for drive management and optimization
- World’s #1 Flash Memory Brand with in-house component production
- Pros:
- Top-tier SATA performance and reliability
- Excellent endurance and a long 5-year warranty
- Easy to install in most desktops and laptops
- Samsung Magician software adds value and control
- Cons:
- SATA interface is inherently slower than NVMe
- A bit pricier than some entry-level SATA alternatives
- User Impressions: Reviewers consistently praise the 870 EVO for its unwavering performance and robust reliability. Many consider it the benchmark for SATA SSDs, highlighting its seamless integration and the peace of mind that comes with Samsung’s brand reputation.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SSK Portable SSD 500GB External Solid State Drives, up to…
Need blazing-fast external storage that you can take anywhere? The SSK Portable SSD 500GB is a compact powerhouse designed for incredible speed and convenience. With read/write speeds of up to 1050MB/s and 1000MB/s respectively, it’s perfect for professionals on the go, gamers who need extra space, or anyone looking to quickly back up large files. Its durable aluminum casing and included USB-C and USB-A cables ensure broad compatibility across devices, making it a truly versatile external SSD.
- Key Features:
- 1050 MB/s Speed: Blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD read up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s
- Data Security: S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for consistent speeds and extended lifespan
- USB-C & USB-A Cable: Rapid USB 3.2 Gen2 cables for seamless cross-platform file transfers
- Always Fast: No slowdowns during large file transfers (up to 150GB with SLC caching)
- For iPhone 4K ProRes: Empowers 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture for iPhone with low power consumption
- Less Heat: 2mm thick aluminum alloy case for superior heat dissipation
- Powerful Portability: Weighs just 36.6g with a dimension of 2.61.50.5 inch
- Pros:
- Extremely fast for an external drive (USB 3.2 Gen2)
- Highly portable and lightweight
- Excellent heat management with aluminum casing
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for wide compatibility
- Great for mobile content creation (e.g., iPhone 4K ProRes)
- Cons:
- Actual usable capacity may appear less on Windows due to algorithm differences
- Performance dependent on host device’s USB port capabilities
- User Impressions: Users are impressed by its compact size and the incredible speeds it offers for an external drive. Many appreciate the robust build and its utility for tasks like video editing on the go or quick data backups.
- See it on Amazon here
5. SANDISK SSD Plus 500GB Internal Solid State Drive – SATA…
The SanDisk SSD Plus 500GB is a straightforward, no-frills internal SSD designed to be an easy and effective upgrade for nearly any desktop or laptop. If you’re looking for a simple way to boost your system’s performance without complexity, this drive is a solid choice. It delivers the essential speed improvements of an SSD – faster boots, quicker app launches – at a very attractive price point, making it a great budget-friendly option for the 500GB capacity.
- 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 (for 1-2TB models, typically similar for 500GB)
- Shock-resistant for proven durability – even if you drop your computer
- Pros:
- Very affordable and accessible entry into SSD performance
- Simple to install in any 2.5-inch drive bay
- Offers significant speed improvement over HDDs
- Durable and reliable with no moving parts
- Cons:
- SATA III performance is limited compared to NVMe
- May not be the fastest SATA drive available
- User Impressions: This SanDisk SSD is a perennial favorite for budget-conscious upgrades. Users consistently praise its easy installation and the immediate performance boost it provides. It’s seen as a reliable workhorse for general computing needs.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible…
While not a 500GB drive, the Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD is an absolute beast for those needing serious external storage and speed. This slim and durable drive boasts incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, reaching speeds of up to 2000MB/s. It’s perfect for professionals who handle large files, content creators shooting Apple ProRes with their iPhone 15 Pro, or gamers expanding their console storage. If you need a high-capacity, lightning-fast portable solution, this Lexar SSD offers exceptional value.
- Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Exceptional external transfer speeds (2000MB/s)
- Premium, robust, and highly portable design
- Excellent for creative professionals and mobile content creation
- Broad device compatibility and console support
- Includes encryption software for data security
- Cons:
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speed, otherwise performance is lower
- Higher capacity means a higher price point (but great value per GB)
- User Impressions: Users are blown away by its speed and compact form factor. Its ability to handle 4K ProRes recording directly from an iPhone is a huge plus for content creators, and the durable build is highly appreciated for on-the-go use.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
The Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD with an integrated hub is a dream come true for professionals and creatives who need fast storage and enhanced connectivity in one ultra-compact device. It’s not just an incredibly fast 1TB portable SSD (up to 1050MB/s); it also features four USB Type-C ports, making it a versatile hub that declutters your setup. Its rugged, IP65-rated design means it’s ready for any adventure, whether you’re shooting 4K footage or backing up files in the field.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for spontaneous creativity anywhere
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled cables (press firmly to ensure drive is completely inserted)
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, 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 (rated IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Combines high-speed 1TB SSD with a versatile USB-C hub
- Extremely portable and durable (IP65 rated, drop-resistant)
- Ideal for mobile content creation and on-the-go workflows
- Eliminates the need for multiple dongles and cables
- Fast enough for 4K video recording with no dropped frames
- Cons:
- The ‘wireless’ plug-and-play refers to direct device attachment; it still needs a physical connection.
- Higher price point due to capacity and integrated hub functionality.
- User Impressions: Professionals absolutely love the integrated hub feature, calling it a game-changer for field production. The combination of speed, durability, and versatility in such a small package makes it a standout choice for those who need more than just storage.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
For basic system upgrades or as a dedicated boot drive, the Lexar 128GB NS100 offers a very cost-effective solution. While its capacity is smaller than our target 500GB, it provides the same fundamental benefits as its larger sibling: faster boot times, quicker application loading, and enhanced system responsiveness compared to a traditional hard drive. It’s an ideal choice for reviving an old laptop for light use, or as a secondary drive for specific applications where speed is key but space isn’t a premium.
- 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 endurance rating
- Three-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Extremely affordable way to get SSD speed
- Great for a dedicated boot drive or older, budget systems
- Improved durability over HDDs
- Cons:
- Limited capacity may not be enough for many users’ primary drive
- SATA III speeds are not cutting-edge
- User Impressions: Users find this 128GB Lexar drive to be a perfect budget upgrade for older machines or for use as a dedicated OS drive. It offers noticeable speed improvements for very little investment, proving that even small SSDs can make a big difference.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s,…
The Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD takes portable storage to another level with its MagSafe-compatible design and blistering USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds. This drive is not only incredibly fast (up to 2000MB/s read/write) but also offers a unique magnetic attachment feature, making it super convenient for smartphone users, especially those capturing high-resolution video. Its IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, combined with a 3-meter drop resistance, makes it a robust companion for any adventure or demanding workflow.
- Key Features:
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write to transfer files fast for a smooth workflow
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to smartphones (metal ring accessory included for other devices)
- Supports recording in Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS, and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
- Includes free access to the Lexar App for easy auto backup and mobile storage expansion
- Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, and drop resistant up to 3M
- Thin and stylish, featuring a liquid silicone build for a comfortable grip and a cable organizer/lanyard
- Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures to maintain high performance
- Pros:
- Extremely high-speed external performance (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- Innovative magnetic attachment feature for mobile devices
- Excellent for professional mobile video recording (4K120FPS ProRes, 8K 30FPS Samsung Pro Video)
- Exceptional durability: IP65 rated, 3M drop resistance
- Includes Lexar App for easy backups and mobile storage management
- Cons:
- Magnetic feature primarily benefits compatible phones; non-MagSafe devices need an adapter ring
- Full speed requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port
- User Impressions: Users are particularly excited about the magnetic attachment, which simplifies on-the-go content creation. The combination of speed, ruggedness, and mobile-friendly features makes this Lexar SSD a top pick for tech-savvy creatives.
- See it on Amazon here
10. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
If you’re building a high-performance PC, upgrading a gaming rig, or outfitting a PlayStation 5, the Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD is a powerhouse that offers incredible value. This PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive boasts staggering read speeds of up to 7400MB/s and write speeds of 6500MB/s – making it twice as fast as many Gen 3 NVMe drives. Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators, it offers unparalleled speed and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for a primary drive where raw performance is paramount.
- Key Features:
- [1TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1000TBW endurance
- 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 transfers
- 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 Gen4 NVMe speeds, among the fastest available
- Excellent endurance (1000 TBW) and a long 5-year warranty
- Low power consumption, great for laptops
- PS5 compatible, making it a versatile upgrade
- Ideal for demanding applications, gaming, and content creation
- Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 M.2 slot to achieve full speeds
- 1TB capacity means a higher upfront cost than 500GB drives (but phenomenal value for performance)
- User Impressions: Gamers and power users consistently highlight the NM790’s incredible speed, noting significant reductions in load times for games and heavy applications. Its PS5 compatibility and robust performance for the price point make it a highly recommended upgrade.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section
1. What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
SATA (Serial ATA) SSDs connect via a standard SATA cable, offering speeds up to around 550MB/s. They’re typically 2.5-inch drives, fitting into bays designed for traditional hard drives. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs, on the other hand, connect directly to the motherboard via a PCIe slot (often in an M.2 form factor), leveraging the much faster PCIe bus. This allows for significantly higher speeds, often reaching thousands of MB/s, making them ideal for high-performance tasks like gaming and video editing.
2. Is 500GB enough for my computer?
For many users, 500GB is a perfect sweet spot. It’s usually enough for your operating system (Windows, macOS), essential applications like Microsoft Office and web browsers, and a decent library of games or personal media. If you’re a casual user or primarily use cloud storage, 500GB can be ample. However, if you’re a hardcore gamer with a massive game library, a professional video editor, or someone who stores a lot of large files locally, you might want to consider 1TB or more.
3. Why choose Lexar over other brands for an SSD?
Lexar has a long-standing reputation in the memory and storage industry for producing reliable and high-performance products at competitive prices. They offer a diverse range of SSDs, from budget-friendly SATA drives to ultra-fast NVMe options and innovative portable solutions. Many Lexar drives come with solid warranties and features like robust thermal control, making them a trustworthy choice for various needs and budgets, often providing great value like the Lexar best 500 gig SSD for the money we discussed.
4. How do I install an internal SSD?
Installing an internal SSD is usually quite straightforward!
* 2.5-inch SATA SSD: Simply slide it into an available 2.5-inch drive bay (you might need a 3.5-inch adapter bracket for desktops), connect a SATA data cable to your motherboard and a SATA power cable from your power supply.
* M.2 NVMe SSD: Locate an M.2 slot on your motherboard (check your motherboard manual). Gently insert the M.2 drive into the slot at an angle, then push it down and secure it with a small screw.
After installation, you’ll need to initialize the drive in Windows Disk Management or macOS Disk Utility before you can use it.
5. Are external SSDs worth it?
Absolutely! External SSDs offer incredible benefits. They provide fast, portable storage for backing up files, carrying large projects, or even running applications/games directly from the drive. Their durability (no moving parts) makes them more reliable for travel than traditional external hard drives. For professionals who need to transfer huge files between devices quickly, or content creators shooting directly to external storage, they’re invaluable.
6. What does TBW mean for an SSD?
TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance. It indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it’s expected to fail. For example, an SSD with 240 TBW means you can write 240 terabytes of data to it before it theoretically wears out. For most everyday users, even lower TBW ratings are more than sufficient for many years of use. Higher TBW ratings are crucial for power users or those with write-intensive workloads.
7. How long do SSDs typically last?
SSDs are generally very durable and long-lasting. While they have a finite number of write cycles, modern SSDs (with features like wear-leveling algorithms and higher TBW ratings) are designed to last for many years, often exceeding the lifespan of traditional hard drives. A typical SSD can last 5-10 years or even longer for average users. The warranty period (e.g., 3 or 5 years) also gives you an idea of the manufacturer’s confidence in the drive’s longevity.
8. Can I use an SSD for gaming?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, an SSD is one of the best upgrades you can make for gaming. It drastically reduces game load times, makes in-game asset streaming smoother, and speeds up level transitions. While it won’t directly improve your frame rate (that’s the GPU’s job), it significantly enhances the overall gaming experience by cutting down on waiting, letting you jump into the action much faster.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best SSD for Your Money
Finding the perfect SSD boils down to your specific needs, system compatibility, and budget. For those specifically looking for the Lexar best 500 gig SSD for the money, the Lexar 512GB NS100 is a fantastic and very affordable internal SATA option that will provide a substantial performance uplift for most everyday users. It offers solid Lexar reliability and a good capacity for a reasonable price.
However, as we’ve seen, the SSD landscape is rich with choice. If your motherboard supports NVMe, a 500GB PCIe Gen4 drive like the Crucial P310 offers mind-blowing speeds for a relatively modest price increase. And if you’re looking at Lexar but need more capacity or portability, their 1TB and 2TB external SSDs, or even the blazing-fast 1TB NM790 NVMe drive, provide incredible performance and value per gigabyte for more demanding tasks.
Ultimately, whether you go for a budget-friendly SATA upgrade, a lightning-fast NVMe powerhouse, or a versatile portable solution, any of these SSDs will provide a dramatic improvement over an old hard drive. Happy upgrading!