Are you tired of staring at loading screens longer than you’re playing the actual game? In today’s demanding gaming landscape, a fast storage solution isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. If you’re looking to significantly boost your system’s responsiveness, cut down game load times, and get into the action quicker, then a high-performance M.2 NVMe SSD is precisely what you need. And when it comes to reliable, high-speed storage, Lexar has consistently delivered impressive options.
We’re diving deep into some of the Lexar best M.2 SSD for gaming options available right now, covering both the cutting-edge PCIe Gen5 and the incredibly capable PCIe Gen4 drives. Whether you’re building a brand-new, future-proof rig or upgrading an existing one, finding the perfect internal SSD can make all the difference. Let’s break down the top contenders to help you make an informed decision and find the Lexar best M.2 SSD for gaming that fits your needs and budget.
Why an M.2 NVMe SSD is a Game-Changer
Gone are the days when traditional HDDs or even SATA SSDs could keep up with modern game assets and operating system demands. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) M.2 SSDs leverage the PCIe interface, offering vastly superior data transfer speeds. This means:
- Blazing-Fast Load Times: Games, applications, and your operating system will boot and load in mere seconds.
- Smoother Gameplay: Less in-game stuttering as assets load quickly, especially beneficial for open-world titles.
- Improved System Responsiveness: Your entire PC will feel snappier, from file transfers to multitasking.
- DirectStorage Ready: Newer games using Microsoft DirectStorage can bypass the CPU and load assets directly to the GPU, requiring ultra-fast NVMe drives to fully benefit.
Now, let’s get to the stars of the show!
Our Top Picks: Lexar Best M.2 SSD for Gaming
Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
If you’re building the ultimate gaming PC and want absolutely no compromises, the Lexar NM1090 PRO 2TB is a beast. This PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD pushes the boundaries of speed, making it an incredible choice for enthusiasts and anyone preparing their system for the next generation of gaming and AI applications. It’s designed to deliver blistering performance, ensuring you’re always ahead of the curve.
Key Features:
* PCIe 5.0 technology with read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s.
* Accelerates game load times by 200%, ideal for AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 platforms.
* 6nm controller optimizes heat control for sustained performance.
* Perfect for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks and accelerating data processing.
* DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache for enhanced data transfer and system responsiveness.
* Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads and conserve CPU power.
Pros:
* Absolutely incredible PCIe Gen5 speeds.
* Optimized for future-proof gaming and AI applications.
* DRAM and SLC caching for superior performance.
* DirectStorage ready for next-gen game optimization.
Cons:
* Requires a compatible PCIe Gen5 motherboard, which can be expensive.
* Premium price point.
* Might generate more heat, though the controller is optimized.
User Impressions:
Users rave about the mind-blowing speeds and how it transforms their system’s overall performance. Gamers report virtually instantaneous load times, while content creators appreciate the rapid file transfers. Many note that while it’s an investment, the performance gain is undeniable, especially on a cutting-edge setup.
Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
The 1TB version of the NM1090 PRO brings the same cutting-edge PCIe Gen5 performance to a slightly more accessible capacity. It’s still a top-tier option for serious gamers who demand the fastest possible speeds and want to future-proof their system without needing the massive 2TB storage right away. You get the same incredible tech, just in a more compact package.
Key Features:
* PCIe 5.0 technology with read/write speeds up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s.
* Accelerates game load times by 200%, perfect for AMD Ryzen and Intel i9.
* 6nm controller optimizes heat control for smoother, more efficient performance.
* Excellent internal SSD for AI PCs: reduces bottlenecks and accelerates AI model training.
* DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache enhance data transfer speeds and system responsiveness.
* Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to boost game loads, minimize delays, and enrich gaming.
Pros:
* Blazing-fast PCIe Gen5 speeds.
* Future-proof for upcoming games and applications.
* DRAM and SLC caching ensure consistent high performance.
* DirectStorage compatibility.
Cons:
* Still requires a PCIe Gen5 compatible motherboard.
* Premium price for 1TB capacity.
* Slightly lower write speed compared to the 2TB version.
User Impressions:
Customers highlight the dramatic improvement in load times and overall system snappiness. It’s frequently praised as a smart upgrade for new builds, especially for those looking to experience the fastest possible data transfer rates for gaming and productivity. While the price is a consideration, the performance often justifies it for enthusiasts.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
For many gamers, the Lexar NM790 with a built-in heatsink is the sweet spot. Offering exceptional PCIe Gen4 performance that’s 2x faster than Gen3 SSDs, this drive comes with the crucial addition of a heatsink to keep temperatures in check during intense gaming sessions. It’s an ideal solution for high-performance desktop PCs and even PlayStation 5 owners looking for a robust storage upgrade.
Key Features:
* [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW endurance.
* Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management and sustained performance.
* Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
* Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 activates DRAM cache function for smooth transfers.
* Compatible with PlayStation 5.
* Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
* Excellent PCIe Gen4 speeds for all modern gaming.
* Included heatsink is crucial for sustained performance and reliability.
* Lower power consumption, good for efficiency.
* PS5 compatible, making it a versatile choice.
* Solid 5-year warranty.
Cons:
* Not PCIe Gen5, if you’re chasing the absolute latest standard.
* The heatsink might be too tall for some compact laptop or desktop setups.
User Impressions:
This SSD consistently receives high marks from gamers and PS5 users. The integrated heatsink is a huge plus, ensuring stable performance under heavy loads. Users report significantly faster game loading on both PC and PS5, with many finding it an excellent balance of speed, capacity, and value. The power efficiency is also a frequently mentioned benefit.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
If your motherboard already has its own M.2 heatsinks or you’re looking for a powerful upgrade for a laptop, the Lexar NM790 2TB without a pre-attached heatsink is a fantastic option. It delivers the same blistering PCIe Gen4 speeds as its heatsink-equipped sibling but in a more flexible, single-sided design. This drive is a powerhouse for hardcore gamers, content creators, and professionals alike.
Key Features:
* [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW 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 for smooth transfer speeds and seamless performance.
* Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.
* Compatible with PlayStation 5.
* Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops.
* Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
* Outstanding PCIe Gen4 performance.
* High 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries.
* Energy-efficient design.
* PS5 compatible and ideal for laptops due to its single-sided nature.
* Excellent value for a high-capacity Gen4 drive.
Cons:
* No integrated heatsink, so ensure your system has adequate cooling for the M.2 slot.
* Not PCIe Gen5.
User Impressions:
Customers frequently praise this drive for its incredible speed-to-price ratio. It’s a favorite for PC builders using motherboards with integrated M.2 heatsinks and laptop users needing a significant storage and speed boost. The seamless performance and PS5 compatibility are often highlighted, making it a truly versatile choice for the Lexar best M.2 SSD for gaming.
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
For gamers who need excellent performance but might not require 2TB of storage, the 1TB Lexar NM790 is a brilliant choice. It packs all the speed and efficiency of its larger siblings into a more budget-friendly capacity. This is an ideal primary drive for your operating system and a handful of your most-played games, delivering a substantial upgrade over older storage solutions.
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 for smooth transfer speeds and seamless performance.
* Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.
* Compatible with PlayStation 5.
* Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops.
* Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
* Excellent PCIe Gen4 speeds at a competitive price for 1TB.
* Energy-efficient design.
* PS5 compatible and great for laptop upgrades.
* Solid 5-year warranty.
Cons:
* No integrated heatsink, requiring motherboard cooling or aftermarket solution.
* 1TB might feel limiting for very large game libraries over time.
User Impressions:
Reviewers love this 1TB drive for its fantastic balance of speed and affordability. It’s often recommended as an entry point into high-performance NVMe storage, especially for those upgrading from SATA SSDs or HDDs. Gamers report a dramatic difference in load times, and many appreciate its compatibility with the PS5.
FAQ: All Your Lexar M.2 SSD Gaming Questions Answered
Q1: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen4 and PCIe Gen5 SSDs?
A1: PCIe Gen5 is the latest generation of the PCIe interface, offering double the theoretical bandwidth of PCIe Gen4. This translates to significantly faster sequential read/write speeds (e.g., 14,000 MB/s for Gen5 vs. 7,400 MB/s for Gen4). While Gen5 offers cutting-edge performance, Gen4 is still incredibly fast and more than sufficient for most current gaming needs. Gen5 requires a compatible motherboard (e.g., Z790 for Intel, X670 for AMD).
Q2: Do I really need a Gen5 SSD for gaming right now?
A2: For most current games, a high-end PCIe Gen4 SSD (like the Lexar NM790 series) is more than enough. The performance gains from Gen5 SSDs are most noticeable in specific workloads like large file transfers, AI tasks, or future games heavily utilizing Microsoft DirectStorage. If you’re building a top-tier PC and want to future-proof for years to come, Gen5 is a solid investment. Otherwise, Gen4 offers a better bang-for-your-buck for pure gaming.
Q3: What is DirectStorage, and why is it important for gaming SSDs?
A3: DirectStorage is a Windows API that allows games to load assets directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, bypassing the CPU. This significantly reduces CPU overhead, speeds up game loading, and enables richer, more detailed game worlds. For games to fully leverage DirectStorage, they need ultra-fast NVMe SSDs, with PCIe Gen4 and especially Gen5 drives being ideal.
Q4: Do I need a heatsink for my M.2 SSD?
A4: For high-performance NVMe SSDs, especially PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 drives, a heatsink is highly recommended. These drives can generate considerable heat under sustained load, which can lead to thermal throttling and reduced performance. Many motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can opt for an SSD with a pre-attached heatsink like the Lexar NM790 with heatsink.
Q5: How easy is it to install an M.2 SSD?
A5: Installing an M.2 SSD is relatively straightforward. Most motherboards have one or more M.2 slots. You simply insert the SSD into the slot at an angle, push it down, and secure it with a small screw or clip provided by your motherboard. For laptops, it might require opening the case and locating the M.2 slot, but the process is similar.
Q6: What does “TBW” mean, and why is it important?
A6: 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 lifespan before it’s expected to fail. Higher TBW values mean greater durability. For gaming, even a moderately sized TBW (e.g., 1000 TBW for a 1TB drive) is usually more than enough for many years of heavy use.
Q7: Can I use these Lexar M.2 SSDs in my PlayStation 5?
A7: Yes, the Lexar NM790 series (both with and without heatsink) is fully compatible with the PlayStation 5, provided you choose a 1TB or 2TB model with a read speed of 5500MB/s or higher (which all NM790 models exceed). Make sure to check the PS5’s specific requirements for heatsink dimensions if you’re adding one yourself. The NM1090 PRO Gen5 drives are also compatible, offering even more headroom.
Final Thoughts on Lexar Best M.2 SSD for Gaming
Choosing the Lexar best M.2 SSD for gaming depends on your specific needs, existing hardware, and budget. If you’re building a top-of-the-line, future-proof PC, the Lexar NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 drives offer unparalleled speed. However, for the majority of gamers, the Lexar NM790 PCIe Gen4 series provides an incredible balance of blistering performance, reliability, and value, especially the version with the integrated heatsink or the flexible single-sided models for laptops and PS5.
No matter which Lexar M.2 SSD you choose, you’re in for a significant upgrade that will drastically improve your gaming experience. Say goodbye to long loading screens and hello to seamless, high-speed action!