Are you ready to take your ROG Ally X gaming experience to the next level? With its impressive portable power, the one thing many gamers quickly run out of is storage. A massive game library, system updates, and multimedia content can quickly fill up even a decent-sized drive. That’s where a high-capacity, high-performance SSD comes in. Specifically, finding the Lexar best 4TB SSD for ROG Ally X can dramatically expand your storage and even improve game load times.
Lexar is a trusted name in storage, known for delivering reliable and fast SSDs. Upgrading your Ally X with a 4TB Lexar drive means less worrying about uninstalling games and more time playing them. Whether you’re looking for an internal upgrade or a robust external solution, we’ve got you covered. We’ve handpicked the top 5 Lexar 4TB SSDs perfect for your ROG Ally X, helping you make an informed decision to supercharge your handheld.
Why Upgrade Your ROG Ally X Storage?
The ROG Ally X is designed for gaming on the go, but even its internal storage can feel cramped once you start downloading AAA titles. Here’s why a 4TB SSD upgrade is a game-changer:
- Massive Game Library: Store dozens of large games without compromise.
- Faster Load Times: Modern NVMe SSDs significantly reduce loading screens.
- Future-Proofing: Prepare for even larger game sizes down the line.
- Seamless Experience: Keep all your essential apps and files on one fast drive.
Let’s dive into the best Lexar 4TB SSD options for your ROG Ally X!
1. Lexar 4TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
The Lexar NM790 is a fantastic choice for ROG Ally X owners looking for a powerful internal upgrade without breaking the bank. This M.2 2280 SSD delivers blistering PCIe Gen4 speeds, meaning your games will load incredibly fast. What makes it stand out is its efficiency – it manages to offer top-tier performance while consuming up to 40% less power than many DRAM cache-enabled competitors, which is a huge plus for a battery-powered device like the Ally X. Its single-sided design ensures compatibility with tight spaces, making installation a breeze in your handheld.
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Key Features
- 4TB storage capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- High endurance: 3000TBW
- 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 transfer speeds
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 (implies great gaming performance)
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops and handhelds like the Ally X
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Excellent speed for PCIe Gen4, significantly improving game load times.
- Impressive power efficiency, helping extend your ROG Ally X’s battery life.
- High durability and endurance rating.
- Single-sided design ensures broad compatibility in compact devices.
- Great value for performance.
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Cons
- Does not include a built-in heatsink, relying on the Ally X’s internal cooling solution.
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User Impressions
Customers consistently praise the NM790 for its incredible speed and reliability. Many users highlight how straightforward it is to install and how noticeable the performance boost is, especially for gaming and intensive applications. Its cooler operation compared to some other high-end SSDs is also frequently mentioned positively.
2. Lexar 4TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
If you love the performance of the NM790 but want an extra layer of thermal security for your ROG Ally X, this version with an integrated heatsink is your answer. It offers the exact same blazing-fast Gen4 speeds and power efficiency, but with the added benefit of a pre-installed heatsink. This ensures your drive stays cooler during intense gaming sessions, maintaining optimal performance and potentially extending the life of the SSD. It’s an ideal choice for peace of mind, especially when pushing your handheld to its limits.
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Key Features
- 4TB storage capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- High endurance: 3000TBW
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool for better performance and power efficiency
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer speeds
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 (implies great gaming performance)
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Combines high performance with superior thermal management thanks to the heatsink.
- Excellent speeds and power efficiency identical to the regular NM790.
- Pre-installed heatsink saves you the trouble of finding and installing one separately.
- Reliable performance during sustained heavy workloads.
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Cons
- The heatsink might make it slightly bulkier, though the ROG Ally X should accommodate standard M.2 2280 heatsinks.
- Slightly higher price point due to the included heatsink.
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User Impressions
Reviewers are very happy with the NM790 with heatsink, noting its consistent performance even under heavy loads. The heatsink is often praised for its effectiveness, with users reporting stable temperatures. It’s considered a hassle-free upgrade for those who prioritize cooling.
3. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe
The Lexar Play SSD with Heatsink is engineered with gamers in mind, making it a stellar option for your ROG Ally X. While marketed heavily for the PS5, its specifications – 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write speeds – translate directly into an outstanding experience for PC and handheld gaming. The integrated heatsink is not just for show; it actively keeps temperatures down during intense gaming sessions, ensuring peak performance. This drive is all about delivering a smooth, uninterrupted gaming experience with minimal load times.
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Key Features
- 4TB storage capacity
- Designed to coordinate with your PS5, enhancing your gaming experience (also great for PC/Ally X).
- 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds ensure reduced load times and seamless gameplay.
- High endurance: 3200TBW for 4TB model.
- Tested and approved for console gaming (PS5), allowing games to be played right off the drive.
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache deliver improved performance and accelerated data access speeds.
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Optimized for gaming, offering exceptional performance for your game library.
- Included heatsink provides excellent thermal management.
- High read/write speeds ensure very fast game loading.
- Excellent endurance rating for long-term heavy use.
- Proven compatibility with demanding gaming systems.
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Cons
- Similar to the NM790 with heatsink, the heatsink could add slight bulk.
- Might be slightly more expensive due to its gaming-centric branding.
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User Impressions
Gamers love the Lexar Play SSD for its seamless performance and quick load times. The heatsink is often highlighted as a key benefit, keeping the drive cool even during extended play. Users appreciate its reliability and ease of installation, making it a popular choice for console and PC gaming upgrades.
4. Lexar 4TB Armor 700 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
While not an internal drive, the Lexar Armor 700 is an exceptional external storage solution for your ROG Ally X, especially if you need rugged portability or want to expand storage without opening up your device. This portable SSD is built like a tank, rated IP66 for water and dust resistance, and can withstand drops of up to 3 meters. With speeds up to 2000MB/s, it’s blazing fast for an external drive, perfect for storing games, media, or transferring large files quickly. It’s an excellent companion for gamers on the move who need extra, durable storage.
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Key Features
- 4TB storage capacity
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write speeds.
- Rated IP66 for water and dust protection; rugged design built to withstand up to 3-meter drops.
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (with iPhone 15 Pro/Max).
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures.
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone, cameras, gaming consoles, and more.
- Includes Lexar DataShield, a 256-bit AES encryption security solution.
- Includes a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable.
- Compact dimensions and lightweight (0.18 lbs).
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Extremely durable and rugged, ideal for travel and outdoor use with your Ally X.
- Very fast external transfer speeds, great for moving games or playing lighter titles directly.
- Broad compatibility with various devices, not just the Ally X.
- Built-in thermal control for sustained performance.
- Added security with 256-bit AES encryption.
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Cons
- External drive, so not as seamlessly integrated as an internal SSD.
- Slower than internal PCIe Gen4 SSDs (2000MB/s vs 7000+MB/s).
- Relies on the Ally X’s USB-C port, which might not always support full USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds.
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User Impressions
Users are incredibly impressed with the Armor 700’s durability and speed. It’s a favorite for content creators and professionals who need robust, fast external storage on the go. Gamers find it excellent for storing their backup libraries or less performance-intensive titles. The compact size and included accessories are also frequently praised.
5. Lexar 4TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
For those who demand the absolute pinnacle of speed and are looking to future-proof their setup, the Lexar NM1090 PRO is a powerhouse. This PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD offers staggering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s – making it one of the fastest SSDs available. While the ROG Ally X currently supports PCIe Gen4, this drive will still function at Gen4 speeds, providing top-tier performance while being ready for future devices that support Gen5. Its advanced controller, DRAM/SLC caching, and Microsoft DirectStorage compatibility make it a beast for games and AI applications. It’s undoubtedly a high-end option for the most demanding users, and clearly one of the Lexar best 4TB SSD for ROG Ally X if raw speed potential is your top priority.
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Key Features
- 4TB storage capacity
- PCIe 5.0 technology delivering blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s.
- Accelerates load times by 200% compared to Gen4 (in Gen5 compatible systems).
- Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control for smoother, more efficient 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.
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Pros
- Unparalleled raw speed (future-proof for Gen5 systems, top-tier Gen4 performance in Ally X).
- Cutting-edge technology, ideal for the most demanding games and applications.
- Advanced caching and controller for superior responsiveness.
- Excellent for reducing game load times and system responsiveness.
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Cons
- Significantly more expensive than Gen4 alternatives.
- ROG Ally X is PCIe Gen4, so the full Gen5 speeds won’t be utilized (will run at Gen4 maximums).
- Gen5 drives typically run hotter and may consume more power, even with optimization, potentially impacting Ally X battery life and thermals.
- Might be overkill for a handheld gaming device where Gen4 speeds are already excellent.
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User Impressions
Early adopters of the NM1090 PRO rave about its incredible speed, noting dramatic improvements in system responsiveness and game loading on compatible platforms. They appreciate the forward-thinking Gen5 technology and its potential for future builds. While acknowledging the price, they see it as an investment in top-tier performance.
FAQ Section
Q1: Is it difficult to install a 4TB SSD in the ROG Ally X?
A1: Installing an M.2 2280 SSD in the ROG Ally X requires some technical comfort as you’ll need to open the device. However, ASUS designed the Ally X with user-upgradability in mind, making it relatively straightforward for those with basic tools and some patience. There are many helpful video guides available online that walk you through the process step-by-step.
Q2: Will a 4TB SSD affect the battery life of my ROG Ally X?
A2: Modern NVMe SSDs are quite power-efficient. While a faster or higher-capacity drive could theoretically draw slightly more power than a smaller, slower one, the impact on your ROG Ally X’s overall battery life is generally minimal and often unnoticeable during typical gaming sessions. Drives like the Lexar NM790 are even designed for reduced power consumption, which helps.
Q3: Do I need a heatsink for my ROG Ally X SSD?
A3: The ROG Ally X has its own cooling system for the SSD slot. While not strictly required for most Gen4 SSDs, an integrated heatsink (like on the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink or Lexar Play SSD) can help keep temperatures lower during extended, intensive gaming. This can prevent thermal throttling and ensure consistent performance, giving you extra peace of mind.
Q4: Can I use a PCIe Gen5 SSD in my ROG Ally X?
A4: Yes, you can use a PCIe Gen5 SSD like the Lexar NM1090 PRO in your ROG Ally X. However, the ROG Ally X’s M.2 slot supports PCIe Gen4. This means the Gen5 SSD will operate at Gen4 speeds, not its full Gen5 potential. While it will still provide excellent performance (at Gen4 maximums), you won’t get the advertised Gen5 speeds, and you’ll be paying a premium for technology you can’t fully utilize in the Ally X.
Q5: What’s the difference between an internal and external SSD for the ROG Ally X?
A5: An internal SSD replaces the device’s primary storage, offering seamless integration and the fastest possible speeds for game loading and system responsiveness. An external SSD, like the Lexar Armor 700, connects via USB-C. It’s great for expandable storage, transferring files, or playing less demanding games, but it won’t be as fast as an internal NVMe drive, and it requires carrying an extra device.
Q6: Are Lexar SSDs reliable for gaming?
A6: Absolutely! Lexar has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality and reliable memory and storage products. Their SSDs, especially the NVMe M.2 series, are designed to meet the demands of gamers and professionals, offering high endurance (TBW ratings) and often coming with a solid five-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind for your gaming setup.
Q7: Will a 4TB SSD improve my game performance beyond load times?
A7: While the primary benefit of a faster SSD is significantly reduced load times, it can also subtly improve in-game performance in open-world titles or games that stream assets directly from storage. This is because the SSD can load textures and game elements faster, preventing stuttering or pop-in issues that might occur with slower drives.
Conclusion
Upgrading your ROG Ally X with a high-capacity Lexar 4TB SSD is one of the best enhancements you can make for your portable gaming powerhouse. Whether you opt for the balanced performance and efficiency of the Lexar best 4TB SSD for ROG Ally X in the NM790 (with or without heatsink), the gaming-centric design of the Play SSD, the rugged portability of the Armor 700, or the future-proof speed of the NM1090 PRO, you’re guaranteed a massive boost in storage and performance.
No more agonizing over which games to uninstall – with 4TB of blazing-fast Lexar storage, your entire game library can come with you wherever you go. Pick the Lexar SSD that best fits your needs and budget, and get ready to truly unleash your ROG Ally X!