Feeling like your PC is stuck in the slow lane? If you’re tired of long boot times, sluggish application loading, and overall system unresponsiveness, it might be time for a serious upgrade. The good news? Boosting your computer’s speed doesn’t have to break the bank, and one of the most impactful changes you can make is swapping out that old hard drive for a solid-state drive (SSD). Lexar has been a trusted name in flash memory for years, offering reliable and high-performance storage solutions.
In this article, we’re diving deep into some of the best Lexar internal SSD drive for PC options available right now. We’ll explore five top picks, from budget-friendly SATA models perfect for everyday use to blazing-fast NVMe drives designed for hardcore gamers and creative professionals. Get ready to give your desktop computer or laptop the performance boost it deserves!
Why Choose a Lexar SSD for Your PC?
Lexar solid-state drives are known for their great balance of performance, reliability, and value. Whether you’re looking for a simple storage upgrade or a powerful drive to handle demanding tasks, Lexar has an option that fits. Their SSDs offer significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), resulting in quicker boot times, snappier application launches, and an overall smoother computing experience. Plus, with no moving parts, they’re more durable and power-efficient.
1. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
This 256GB NS100 SSD is a fantastic entry point for anyone looking to revitalize an aging laptop or desktop computer without spending a fortune. It’s a 2.5-inch SATA III drive, making it widely compatible with most older systems that still rely on traditional hard drives. If you’re currently using an HDD, swapping it out for this Lexar best internal SSD drive for PC will feel like you’ve bought a brand new computer. Expect significantly faster startups and much quicker loading of your everyday applications.
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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 (Total Bytes Written) for durability.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Excellent value for a noticeable performance boost.
- Easy to install in most standard PC cases.
- Improves overall system responsiveness dramatically compared to an HDD.
- Robust and reliable with no moving parts.
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Cons
- SATA III speeds are slower than newer NVMe drives.
- 256GB might be tight for users with many large files or games.
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User Impressions
Customers frequently praise this SSD for its ability to breathe new life into older machines. Many report that their computers went from painfully slow to surprisingly fast after the upgrade, highlighting the immediate impact on boot times and application loading. It’s often recommended as a budget-friendly and reliable choice for a primary drive or for specific applications.
2. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
Stepping up a bit, the 512GB NS100 SSD offers a sweet spot between capacity and performance for the average user. Like its 256GB sibling, it’s a 2.5-inch SATA III solid-state drive, ensuring broad compatibility with a vast range of PCs. This model is ideal if you need more space for your operating system, essential applications, and a decent collection of documents or photos, all while enjoying those buttery-smooth boot times and swift data transfer speeds that only an SSD can provide. It’s truly a smart storage upgrade.
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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 for enhanced longevity.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Great balance of storage capacity and affordability.
- Noticeable performance improvement over HDDs.
- High reliability and durability thanks to no moving parts.
- Simple installation process for most systems.
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Cons
- Still limited by SATA III interface speeds.
- Might not be enough for heavy gamers or video editors.
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User Impressions
Reviewers love the 512GB NS100 for being a dependable workhorse. Users often highlight the significant jump in speed for everyday tasks and appreciate having enough space for their main programs and some games without feeling constrained. It’s a consistently praised option for a dependable, everyday PC upgrade.
3. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
For those on a super tight budget or looking for a dedicated boot drive for an older system, the Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD is a commendable choice. While 128GB might sound small in today’s world, it’s more than enough for just your operating system and a few essential applications. This can drastically improve your PC’s boot times and overall responsiveness without the need for a full system overhaul. It’s another excellent option for a Lexar best internal SSD drive for PC, especially when cost is a major factor.
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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 for reliable performance.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Extremely cost-effective way to get SSD speed.
- Perfect as a dedicated boot drive.
- Compatible with virtually any system that uses 2.5-inch SATA drives.
- Dramatically improves startup and load times compared to HDDs.
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Cons
- Very limited storage capacity; will require additional storage for most users.
- Not suitable as a primary drive for gaming or content creation.
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User Impressions
Customers using this 128GB SSD are often impressed by how much speed improvement it delivers for such a low price point. Many use it successfully as a system drive, pairing it with a larger HDD for data storage, creating a hybrid setup that offers both speed and capacity economically. It’s a top pick for budget-conscious users or specific embedded applications.
4. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
Now we’re stepping into the big leagues! The Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD is a beast, offering incredible performance thanks to its PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 interface. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a complete revolution for your PC’s storage. With read speeds up to 7400MB/s and write speeds up to 6500MB/s, it’s literally twice as fast as PCIe Gen 3 SSDs. If you’re a hardcore gamer, a content creator, or a professional who demands the absolute best, this is the Lexar best internal SSD drive for PC you’ve been looking for. It’s even compatible with the PlayStation 5 for expanded game storage!
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Key Features
- [1TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1000TBW.
- 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 speed and seamless performance.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Single-sided NVMe SSD is perfect for laptops.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Blazing-fast speeds for incredibly quick loading of games, applications, and large files.
- Excellent power efficiency for a high-performance drive.
- Substantial 1TB capacity for a wide range of uses.
- Durable with a high TBW rating and a generous five-year warranty.
- PS5 compatibility is a huge bonus for console gamers.
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Cons
- Requires a compatible M.2 slot on a motherboard that supports PCIe Gen4.
- Might be overkill for basic PC users.
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User Impressions
Users are consistently blown away by the speed of the NM790. Gamers report drastically reduced load times in demanding titles, while creators appreciate how quickly large files transfer and projects render. The PS5 compatibility is also a huge selling point, with many finding it an easy and effective way to expand their console’s storage.
5. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2…
Building on the incredible foundation of the standard NM790, this version comes with a pre-installed heatsink, making it an even more compelling choice for high-performance systems. When an NVMe SSD operates at its peak, it can generate significant heat. The integrated heatsink ensures your drive stays cool, preventing thermal throttling and maintaining those exceptional speeds consistently, especially during prolonged intense use like heavy gaming sessions or massive file transfers. This is the ultimate Lexar best internal SSD drive for PC for those who want sustained, top-tier performance without compromise. It’s also fully compatible with your PlayStation 5!
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Key Features
- [1TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1000TBW.
- 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 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for a smoother transfer speed and seamless performance.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Top-tier sustained performance thanks to the integrated heatsink.
- Prevents thermal throttling during heavy workloads, ensuring consistent speeds.
- Blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds for all demanding applications.
- High durability and a long five-year warranty.
- Excellent for high-end gaming PCs and PS5 consoles.
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Cons
- The heatsink might make it incompatible with some ultra-thin laptops or motherboards with built-in heatsinks.
- Premium price point reflecting its high performance and cooling solution.
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User Impressions
Reviewers frequently highlight the peace of mind the heatsink provides, especially in systems prone to heat buildup. Many observe that performance remains consistently high even under heavy loads, a testament to the heatsink’s effectiveness. Gamers, in particular, appreciate not having to worry about their drive slowing down in the middle of a crucial moment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between a SATA SSD and an NVMe SSD?
A1: The main difference lies in their interface and speed. SATA SSDs connect via the SATA III interface, offering speeds generally up to 600MB/s. NVMe SSDs, on the other hand, connect via the PCIe interface, which is much faster. PCIe Gen4 NVMe drives, like the Lexar NM790, can reach speeds over 7000MB/s, making them ideal for high-performance tasks, gaming, and professional applications.
Q2: How much storage capacity do I actually need for my PC?
A2: It really depends on your usage! For a primary boot drive and essential applications, 256GB to 512GB is often sufficient. If you play a lot of games, work with large media files, or have extensive software libraries, 1TB (or even more) is highly recommended. Many users opt for a smaller SSD for the operating system and a larger traditional hard drive or a second SSD for data storage.
Q3: Can I install an internal SSD drive myself, or do I need a professional?
A3: For most desktop PCs, installing a 2.5-inch SATA SSD or an M.2 NVMe SSD is a relatively straightforward process that many users can do themselves. It usually involves opening your PC case, finding an available slot, screwing in the drive, and connecting it (for SATA, you’ll need power and data cables). Laptops can be a bit trickier but are often manageable. There are tons of helpful tutorials online!
Q4: What are the biggest benefits of upgrading from an HDD to a Lexar SSD?
A4: The benefits are huge! You’ll experience drastically faster boot times (your PC will start up in seconds!), quicker application loading, much smoother multitasking, and overall improved system responsiveness. SSDs are also more durable as they have no moving parts, generate less heat, and consume less power than traditional hard drives.
Q5: Is Lexar a good brand for solid-state drives?
A5: Yes, absolutely! Lexar has a long-standing reputation in the memory and storage industry. They are known for producing reliable, performance-oriented products that offer excellent value. Their SSDs are a solid choice for anyone looking for a dependable upgrade.
Q6: Do I need a heatsink for my NVMe SSD, especially for gaming?
A6: For most everyday use, a heatsink isn’t strictly necessary for an NVMe SSD. However, for sustained heavy workloads like intense gaming, video editing, or large file transfers, an NVMe drive can get hot and potentially “throttle” its speed to prevent overheating. A heatsink, like the one on the Lexar 1TB NM790 with Heatsink, ensures the drive stays cool, maintaining peak performance consistently and extending its lifespan.
Q7: How do I check if my PC motherboard is compatible with an NVMe M.2 SSD?
A7: You’ll need to physically inspect your motherboard for an M.2 slot. It typically looks like a small horizontal slot, often labeled “M.2” or “PCIe M.2,” and usually has a small screw hole nearby. You should also consult your motherboard’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to confirm if the slot supports NVMe drives and which PCIe generation (Gen3 or Gen4) it supports.