Hey there, tech enthusiasts and budget-conscious buyers! If you’re on the hunt for a reliable, fast, and cost-effective storage solution, you’ve probably heard good things about Lexar SSDs. And if you’re like most savvy shoppers, you’ve likely scoured Reddit for those golden nuggets of user experience and “best for price” recommendations. Finding the Lexar best 1tb ssd reddit for price often means balancing top-tier performance with a sensible budget, whether you’re building a gaming rig, upgrading your laptop, or needing portable storage for creative projects.
Lexar has truly stepped up its game, offering a diverse range of 1TB SSDs that cater to different needs and budgets. From internal NVMe powerhouses that’ll make your system fly, to robust external drives perfect for on-the-go professionals, there’s a Lexar option that’s just right. We’ve compiled a list of 5 top Lexar 1TB SSDs, diving into what makes each one special, so you can make an informed decision and get the most bang for your buck. Let’s dig in!
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re looking to seriously amp up your PC or PlayStation 5’s speed without breaking the bank, the Lexar NM790 is a fantastic contender. This internal NVMe SSD leverages PCIe Gen4 technology to deliver blistering read and write speeds, making system boot-ups, game loading, and large file transfers feel instantaneous. What’s more, it’s designed with power efficiency in mind, consuming up to 40% less power than some other Gen 4 SSDs, which is great for keeping your system cool and extending laptop battery life. Its Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 feature ensures smooth performance by effectively using your system’s DRAM cache.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– 1000TBW endurance rating for long-term reliability
– 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
– Single-sided NVMe SSD perfect for laptops
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds significantly improve system responsiveness
– Excellent value for a high-performance Gen4 drive
– Low power consumption helps with thermal management and battery life
– PS5 compatible, making it a great upgrade for console gamers
– Durable with a high TBW rating
Cons:
– Relies on HMB, which might not be preferred by some users over dedicated DRAM cache
– Still not quite Gen5 speeds, if that’s what you’re ultimately aiming for
User Impressions:
Reddit users often praise the NM790 for its incredible speed-to-price ratio, frequently recommending it as a smart choice for gaming PCs and PS5 upgrades. Many are impressed by its consistent performance and how it drastically cuts down on load times without needing an active cooling solution. It’s often highlighted as a prime example of the Lexar best 1tb ssd reddit for price for internal storage.
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports
For the creative professional or digital nomad who needs reliable, speedy, and versatile storage on the go, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a game-changer. This ultra-compact device isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a productivity hub! The integrated wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector means fewer tangled cables, and its blazing-fast 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds ensure seamless 4K recording and swift backups. Plus, it’s built to withstand the elements with IP65 dust and water resistance and a 1-meter drop resistance, making it ready for any adventure.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for connection)
– Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage with ease
– Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters/cables for versatile setup
– Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
– IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Dual functionality as an SSD and a USB-C hub
– Excellent for videographers and photographers, especially for ProRes recording
– Rugged and durable design suitable for outdoor use
– Highly portable with a convenient cable-free design
– Comes with useful adapters for wide compatibility
Cons:
– The “wireless” aspect refers to the direct Type-C connection, not actual wireless data transfer
– Might be overkill if you only need a basic portable SSD without the hub features
– iPhone 17 series compatibility is still pending confirmation
User Impressions:
Users, particularly those in content creation circles on Reddit, appreciate this drive’s innovation, highlighting the integrated hub as a major convenience. Its robustness and reliable performance for handling large media files like Apple ProRes footage receive consistent praise, making it a strong contender for the Lexar best 1tb ssd reddit for price for portable, professional-grade storage.
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
Sometimes, you just need a straightforward, fast, and highly portable external SSD that gets the job done without any fuss. The Lexar ES3 fits that bill perfectly. This sleek, thin, and durable metal drive offers high-speed data transfer via USB 3.2 Gen 2, reaching up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write. It’s designed to be smaller than a credit card and weighs a mere 42g, making it incredibly easy to slip into your pocket. With wide compatibility across iPhone 15, Android, laptops, cameras, and even gaming consoles, it’s a versatile storage companion for almost any device, bolstered by Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption for peace of mind.
Key Features:
– High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
– Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, etc.
– On The Go: Thin, stylish, durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick)
– Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
– Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software
Pros:
– Excellent blend of speed, portability, and durability
– Very compact and lightweight, ideal for daily carry
– Wide device compatibility, great for multimedia use across platforms
– Data encryption adds an extra layer of security
– Plug-and-play simplicity
Cons:
– Not compatible with iPhone 14 and older models
– Performance can be lower if the host device doesn’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2
– Magsafe is not available in this version
User Impressions:
Users frequently comment on the ES3’s discreet size and reliable performance for general use. It’s often recommended on Reddit for students and professionals who need a dependable, quick way to carry and transfer files between various devices. The emphasis on its small footprint and compatibility makes it a popular choice for the Lexar best 1tb ssd reddit for price in everyday external storage.
Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
Stepping up the game in portable storage, the Lexar ES5 Magnetic External SSD is built for speed demons and mobile content creators. Boasting an incredible 2000MB/s read and write speed, it handles massive files and high-resolution video streams with ease. Its standout feature is the MagSafe-compatible design, allowing it to magnetically attach to your smartphone – perfect for direct recording of Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS or Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS. Coupled with IP65 dust/water resistance and 3M drop resistance, plus a thoughtful thermal control design, this SSD is as robust as it is rapid.
Key Features:
– Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds
– MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to smartphones (metal ring accessory included for other devices)
– Supports recording Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
– Free access to Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion
– Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 3M
– Thin and stylish liquid silicone build for comfortable grip
– Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained performance
– Comes with a cable organizer that doubles as a lanyard
Pros:
– Extremely fast speeds for demanding video workflows
– Magnetic attachment is incredibly convenient for mobile recording
– Highly durable and weather-resistant for professional use in tough environments
– Integrated app for easy backups enhances mobile productivity
– Effective thermal management prevents throttling during intense tasks
Cons:
– Max speeds require USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, which not all devices support
– MagSafe compatibility is a niche feature not everyone needs
– Higher price point than basic portable SSDs
User Impressions:
On Reddit, content creators working with high-res video (especially iPhone users with ProRes) rave about the ES5’s speed and magnetic convenience. The ability to directly record to the drive and the added durability features are frequently highlighted. It’s seen as a premium choice for those who need the absolute best performance in a portable, robust package, making it a standout for the Lexar best 1tb ssd reddit for price in a professional, high-speed portable category.
Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
For the absolute cutting edge in internal storage, look no further than the Lexar NM1090 PRO. This beast of an SSD unleashes the full potential of PCIe 5.0 technology, delivering mind-blowing read/write speeds up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s. That’s twice as fast as Gen4 drives, drastically accelerating load times and making it a powerhouse for everything from gaming to AI model training and real-time data processing. With a powerful 6nm controller, DRAM Cache, and SLC Dynamic Cache, it’s designed to optimize heat control, minimize bottlenecks, and ensure unparalleled system responsiveness – perfect for next-gen PCs and DirectStorage-enabled games.
Key Features:
– PCIe 5.0 technology delivers blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s
– Accelerates load times by 200% compared to Gen4 – great with AMD Ryzen and Intel i9
– Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control for smoother, more efficient performance
– Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs: reduces bottlenecks, accelerates AI model training, inferencing, and real-time data processing
– DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds
– Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads, minimize delays, and conserve CPU power
Pros:
– Unrivaled speeds for demanding applications, gaming, and AI workloads
– Future-proof technology with PCIe 5.0
– Excellent for reducing bottlenecks in high-performance systems
– Advanced caching mechanisms for superior responsiveness
– Great for serious gamers and professionals pushing system limits
Cons:
– Requires a motherboard with PCIe 5.0 support, which is still premium
– Generates more heat than Gen4 drives, likely needing a robust heatsink (not included)
– Highest price point among Lexar’s 1TB SSD offerings
User Impressions:
Early adopters and high-end PC builders on Reddit are incredibly excited about the NM1090 PRO. They highlight its potential for future-proofing their rigs and the unprecedented speeds it offers for gaming and demanding professional tasks like video editing or AI development. While acknowledging the need for compatible hardware, many view it as the ultimate upgrade for those seeking the absolute Lexar best 1tb ssd reddit for price in bleeding-edge internal performance.
Choosing Your Lexar 1TB SSD: A Quick Guide
So, which Lexar 1TB SSD is the perfect fit for you?
– For Internal PC/PS5 Gaming & Performance: The Lexar NM790 offers fantastic Gen4 performance and value. If you’re building a top-tier, future-proof machine and have a Gen5 compatible motherboard, the Lexar NM1090 PRO is the ultimate choice for unparalleled speed.
– For Everyday Portable Storage: The Lexar ES3 External SSD is your go-to for its slim design, broad compatibility, and reliable speeds.
– For Professional Portable Content Creation: If you’re a videographer or photographer needing ruggedness, speed, and a convenient hub, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub is an innovative pick. For those needing extreme speeds and MagSafe convenience for mobile video recording, the Lexar ES5 Magnetic External SSD is the premium choice.
Ultimately, the “best” drive really depends on your specific needs, budget, and system compatibility. We hope this breakdown helps you navigate Lexar’s excellent lineup and find the perfect 1TB SSD!
FAQ: All Your Lexar 1TB SSD Questions Answered
Q1: Why should I consider a Lexar SSD over other brands?
A: Lexar has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable storage solutions, from memory cards to SSDs. They offer a great balance of performance, durability, and competitive pricing, often providing excellent value for money. Their drives are well-regarded for consistent performance, and many models come with robust warranties.
Q2: What does 1TB SSD mean in terms of usable storage space?
A: A 1TB SSD provides approximately 931 GB of usable storage space. The discrepancy comes from how manufacturers calculate terabytes (1TB = 1,000,000,000,000 bytes) versus how operating systems calculate them (1TB = 1,099,511,627,776 bytes, or 1024 GB). This is a standard practice across all storage devices.
Q3: What’s the difference between an internal and external Lexar 1TB SSD?
A: Internal SSDs (like the NM790 or NM1090 PRO) are installed inside your computer or gaming console (typically in an M.2 slot) for primary storage, offering the fastest possible speeds. External SSDs (like the ES3, Professional Go, or ES5) are portable devices that connect via USB or Thunderbolt, ideal for backups, expanding storage, or carrying files between different devices.
Q4: Is an NVMe PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 SSD really necessary for gaming?
A: For most current games, a good Gen3 NVMe SSD is still perfectly adequate. However, Gen4 and especially Gen5 SSDs drastically reduce game load times, minimize stuttering, and are essential for upcoming games leveraging technologies like Microsoft DirectStorage. If you’re a serious gamer or future-proofing your rig, Gen4 is a great upgrade, and Gen5 is for cutting-edge performance.
Q5: What does “Host Memory Buffer (HMB)” mean for an SSD?
A: HMB is a feature that allows a DRAM-less NVMe SSD to use a small portion of your computer’s main system RAM (DRAM) as a cache. This helps to improve the SSD’s performance, especially for sustained write operations, getting closer to the performance of SSDs with dedicated DRAM cache without the added cost.
Q6: How do Reddit communities help in finding the “best for price” SSDs?
A: Reddit communities like r/buildapc, r/hardware, and r/storage are invaluable for real-world user experiences, benchmark comparisons, and spotting deals. Users often share their experiences, highlight pros and cons that official reviews might miss, and point out when certain drives (like the Lexar best 1tb ssd reddit for price options) offer exceptional value or performance for their cost.
Q7: What does an IP65 rating mean for a portable SSD like the Lexar Professional Go or ES5?
A: An IP65 rating signifies that the portable SSD is “dust tight” (the ‘6’ in IP65) and protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction (the ‘5’ in IP65). This means it’s highly resistant to dust ingress and can withstand splashes or light rain, making it suitable for outdoor use or in environments where it might encounter dust or moisture.
Q8: Can I use these Lexar 1TB SSDs with my MacBook or iPhone 15?
A: Yes, many Lexar external SSDs, such as the ES3, Professional Go, and ES5, are designed with wide compatibility, including Macs (via USB-C) and iPhone 15 series devices. Always check the specific product’s compatibility list, as older iPhones or certain Mac models might have limitations or require specific adapters. For internal NVMe drives, they are typically for desktops and specific laptop models.