Is your PlayStation 5 storage feeling a bit cramped? You’re not alone! With massive game sizes, it doesn’t take long for that internal SSD to fill up. That’s where a high-quality external SSD comes into play, giving your digital game library the breathing room it needs. And when it comes to reliable and fast storage, Lexar is a name that gamers trust.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into some of the Lexar best external SSD for PS5 options available, helping you pick the perfect portable storage solution to expand your console’s capacity and keep your favorite games at the ready. We’ll explore their features, speeds, and what makes them a great pick for your gaming setup. Let’s get your storage game strong!
Why an External SSD is a Game-Changer for Your PS5
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly recap why an external solid-state drive (SSD) is practically essential for serious PS5 gamers:
- Expand Your Library: The PS5’s internal 825GB SSD (with about 667GB usable) fills up fast. External SSDs provide much-needed extra space for all your digital titles.
- Faster Game Transfers: While you can’t play PS5 games directly from an external drive, you can store them there and transfer them back to the internal SSD much faster than re-downloading. An external SSD makes these transfers lightning-quick.
- Play PS4 Games Directly: The real sweet spot! You can play your PS4 games directly from an external SSD. This frees up internal PS5 storage and often results in faster load times for those PS4 titles compared to playing them from an external HDD.
- Portability: Take your game library with you to a friend’s place or a different setup, simply plug and play!
Now, let’s look at the Lexar best external SSD for PS5 lineup that can make all this possible.
The Top Lexar External SSDs for PS5 Gamers
1. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
The Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is a fantastic entry point for PS5 gamers looking to significantly boost their storage without breaking the bank. This sleek drive offers a great balance of speed, portability, and ruggedness, making it an excellent choice for offloading those large PS5 game files or running your entire PS4 back catalog with snappy load times. Its compact, durable design means it’ll easily fit into any gaming setup or pocket.
Key Features:
* High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
* Wide Compatibility: Works seamlessly with PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, mobile devices, laptops, and cameras.
* On The Go: Thin (10.5mm), lightweight (42g), and durable metal design.
* Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software.
* Plug-and-play convenience with included Type-C cable.
Pros:
* Excellent value for money for 1TB of fast SSD storage.
* Very portable and durable, perfect for travel or small setups.
* Fast enough for quick PS5 game transfers and playing PS4 games directly.
* Data encryption provides peace of mind.
Cons:
* Not as fast as USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives for ultimate transfer speeds.
* Doesn’t support MagSafe.
User Impressions:
Users love the ES3 for its reliability and speedy performance, often highlighting how easy it is to set up with their consoles. Many appreciate its compact size and robust build, making it a go-to for expanding PS5 storage without any fuss. Gamers frequently mention the noticeable improvement in PS4 game load times.
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2. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
If speed is your absolute priority, the Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD steps things up considerably. This drive leverages the blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, offering double the transfer speeds of typical Gen 2 drives. For PS5 owners who frequently move large game files between their external and internal storage, this means less waiting and more playing. It’s a premium choice for those who want the absolute fastest transfer times possible for their extensive game library.
Key Features:
* Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: Up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write speeds.
* Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket.
* Wide compatibility with PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, mobile devices (including iPhone 15 Pro for ProRes recording), and laptops.
* Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained high performance.
* Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play.
* Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
* Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
* Blazing-fast transfer speeds for PS5 games, significantly reducing wait times.
* Excellent for playing PS4 games with minimal load screens.
* Robust thermal management keeps performance consistent.
* Premium build quality and a longer warranty for extra confidence.
Cons:
* USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 requires a compatible port on your device to achieve full speeds (PS5 supports Gen 2, so it will operate at that speed, which is still fast).
* Higher price point due to enhanced speed and features.
User Impressions:
Gamers who opted for the SL500 consistently praise its incredible speed and solid build. They often note how quickly their PS5 games transfer, making library management a breeze. The compact design and premium feel are also frequently mentioned as standout qualities.
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3. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
Need even more space for your ever-growing collection of digital titles? The Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD offers all the same lightning-fast performance as its 1TB counterpart but doubles your storage capacity. This makes it an ideal solution for gamers who not only demand top-tier speed for game transfers and PS4 game playback but also have a truly expansive library that needs ample room. It’s a fantastic middle-ground between capacity and cost for the serious gamer.
Key Features:
* Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: Up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write speeds.
* Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket.
* Wide compatibility with PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, mobile devices (including iPhone 15 Pro for ProRes recording), and laptops.
* Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained high performance.
* Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play.
* Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
* Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
* Massive 2TB capacity to store countless PS4 and PS5 games.
* Top-tier transfer speeds dramatically cut down on waiting.
* Excellent for playing PS4 games with minimal load screens.
* Robust thermal management and premium build.
Cons:
* Still utilizes USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, meaning PS5 will cap speeds at Gen 2.
* Higher investment compared to 1TB models.
User Impressions:
Customers highlight the 2TB SL500’s perfect blend of speed and generous storage. They love the freedom of having so many games ready without constant juggling, and the fast transfer times are a constant point of appreciation. It’s often described as a “set it and forget it” solution for storage expansion.
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4. Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
For the ultimate gaming hoarder, the Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD is the absolute peak of external storage for your PS5. Offering an enormous 4TB of space, this drive ensures you’ll rarely, if ever, have to delete a game to make room for a new one. Coupled with the incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 transfer speeds, you’re getting unparalleled capacity alongside blistering performance, making it the definitive choice for extensive game libraries and seamless game management.
Key Features:
* Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: Up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write speeds.
* Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket.
* Wide compatibility with PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, mobile devices (including iPhone 15 Pro for ProRes recording), and laptops.
* Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained high performance.
* Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play.
* Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
* Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
* Massive 4TB capacity, virtually eliminating storage concerns for years.
* Highest available transfer speeds for rapid PS5 game movements.
* Ideal for playing a vast collection of PS4 games directly.
* Premium features like thermal control and extended warranty.
Cons:
* Significant upfront investment.
* PS5 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports won’t fully utilize the Gen 2×2 speeds.
User Impressions:
Reviewers of the 4TB SL500 rave about the sheer convenience of having so much storage. They emphasize the freedom from constantly managing space and the joy of keeping all their games installed. Despite the cost, many feel it’s a worthwhile investment for the peace of mind and top-tier performance it provides.
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5. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD – The Go-To Choice
Circling back to a true fan favorite, the Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD continues to stand out as a top contender for the Lexar best external SSD for PS5 for many reasons. Its consistent performance, robust build, and excellent value make it a smart choice for most gamers. Whether you’re looking to store a dozen big PS5 titles or keep hundreds of PS4 games ready to jump into, the ES3 delivers dependable speed and ample space. It’s truly a no-brainer for reliable external storage.
Key Features:
* High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
* Wide Compatibility: Seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, mobile devices, laptops, and cameras.
* On The Go: Thin (10.5mm), lightweight (42g), and durable metal design.
* Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software.
* Plug-and-play convenience with included Type-C cable.
Pros:
* Outstanding balance of performance and affordability.
* Extremely portable and built to last with its metal casing.
* More than adequate speed for all PS4 game playback and swift PS5 game transfers.
* Built-in security features add extra protection for your data.
Cons:
* Does not offer the absolute peak speeds of newer Gen 2×2 drives.
* No MagSafe support (though not relevant for PS5).
User Impressions:
This iteration of the ES3 consistently earns high marks for its ease of use and consistent, quick performance. Gamers love how compact and unobtrusive it is, fitting neatly into their entertainment setup. It’s frequently recommended for anyone looking for a dependable and cost-effective way to expand their PS5’s usable storage.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
A: No, PS5 games cannot be played directly from an external SSD. They must be transferred back to the PS5’s internal storage to be played. However, an external SSD is excellent for storing your PS5 games and transferring them back quickly, much faster than redownloading them.
Q2: What’s the difference between USB 3.2 Gen 2 and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds?
A: USB 3.2 Gen 2 offers speeds up to 10 Gbps (around 1000-1050 MB/s read/write). USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 doubles that with speeds up to 20 Gbps (around 2000 MB/s read/write). While Lexar’s SL500 series supports Gen 2×2, the PS5’s USB ports only support up to Gen 2, meaning these drives will operate at the still very fast Gen 2 speeds when connected to a PS5.
Q3: How much external storage do I need for my PS5?
A: It really depends on your gaming habits!
* 1TB: Good for a casual gamer or someone who mainly plays PS4 games externally.
* 2TB: Ideal for most avid gamers who want to store a large library of both PS4 and PS5 titles without constant management.
* 4TB: Perfect for collectors or gamers with a vast digital library who want to install everything and rarely delete games.
Q4: Is Lexar a good brand for PS5 external SSDs?
A: Yes, absolutely! Lexar has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality and reliable storage solutions. Their external SSDs, like the ES3 and SL500 series, offer excellent performance, durability, and compatibility, making them a solid choice for expanding your PS5’s storage.
Q5: How do I set up an external SSD with my PS5?
A: It’s super easy!
1. Plug your Lexar external SSD into one of the PS5’s USB-A ports (preferably a blue USB 3.2 Gen 2 port for best performance).
2. Go to Settings > Storage > Extended Storage.
3. Select Format as Extended Storage. This will prepare the drive for use with your PS5.
4. Once formatted, you can move games between your internal and extended storage.
Q6: Can I use an external SSD for PS4 games on my PS5?
A: Yes, and it’s highly recommended! You can play PS4 games directly from your Lexar external SSD on your PS5. This frees up valuable internal PS5 storage and often results in faster load times for those PS4 titles compared to playing them from a traditional external hard drive.
Q7: What are the benefits of an external SSD over an HDD for PS5?
A: SSDs offer significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). This means quicker game transfers, faster load times for PS4 games played from the drive, and a more responsive gaming experience overall. SSDs are also generally more durable as they have no moving parts, making them less prone to damage from drops or bumps.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Lexar Partner for PS5
Expanding your PlayStation 5’s storage doesn’t have to be a headache, especially with reliable options like those from Lexar. Whether you prioritize value with the speedy ES3 or crave the ultimate transfer performance of the SL500 series with its varying capacities, there’s a Lexar best external SSD for PS5 that fits your needs.
No more deleting games to make room for new ones. With a Lexar external SSD, you’re not just adding storage; you’re upgrading your entire gaming experience with faster access, smoother transfers, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your whole library is ready to play. Pick your champion, plug it in, and get back to gaming!