Ready to supercharge your gaming rig or PlayStation 5? When it comes to lightning-fast load times, seamless gameplay, and overall system responsiveness, a high-quality Solid State Drive (SSD) is non-negotiable. Lexar has consistently delivered top-tier storage solutions, making them a popular choice for gamers and content creators alike. But beyond just raw speed, you might have heard whispers about “allocation unit size” and wondered how it impacts your gaming experience. Don’t sweat it – we’re here to demystify it and help you pick the perfect Lexar SSD!
In this article, we’ll dive into what allocation unit size means for your SSD, especially in the context of gaming, and then review 5 fantastic Lexar SSDs that are perfect for your setup. We’ll help you understand why these drives are game-changers, regardless of the technicalities of file system clusters. Our goal is to guide you to the Lexar best allocation unit size for SSD and gaming setup, ensuring optimal performance for your digital adventures.
What is Allocation Unit Size and Why Does It Matter for Gaming?
Think of your SSD’s storage like a massive bookshelf. When you save a file, it doesn’t just get dumped anywhere; it’s stored in specific “shelves” or blocks. The “allocation unit size” (also known as cluster size) determines the minimum size of these blocks. If your allocation unit size is 4KB, even a tiny 1KB file will occupy an entire 4KB block.
For gaming, where files can range from tiny textures to massive game assets, the allocation unit size can theoretically impact how efficiently your drive stores and accesses data.
- Smaller sizes (e.g., 4KB): Can be more space-efficient for many small files, as less “wasted” space occurs per file. However, accessing many tiny blocks can sometimes lead to slightly more overhead.
- Larger sizes (e.g., 64KB): Might be better for very large files (like game installation files or high-resolution video), as the drive can read/write bigger chunks of data at once. This can sometimes lead to faster throughput for massive sequential operations.
The Bottom Line for Gamers: For most modern SSDs and operating systems (like Windows 10/11), the default allocation unit size (usually 4KB or 16KB) is perfectly adequate and often the best choice. Modern NVMe SSDs, especially those from Lexar, are incredibly fast, and their advanced controllers and caching mechanisms largely mitigate the performance differences you might see from tweaking this setting. The biggest gains come from choosing a high-performance SSD itself. So, while understanding it is useful, don’t get too hung up on changing it unless you have a very specific, niche use case. Focus on getting a great Lexar SSD first, and your gaming will thank you! This is key when considering the Lexar best allocation unit size for SSD and gaming.
Now, let’s explore some of Lexar’s top contenders!
Our Top 5 Lexar SSD Picks for Gaming and Performance
Here are our hand-picked Lexar SSDs that deliver exceptional performance for gamers, content creators, and power users.
1. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe
If you’re looking to significantly boost your PlayStation 5’s storage and performance, or even upgrade your PC gaming rig, the Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink is an absolute beast. Designed from the ground up to excel in gaming environments, this drive combines massive capacity with blistering speeds and essential thermal management. Its integrated heatsink ensures your drive stays cool even during the most intense gaming marathons, making it an ideal choice for sustained high performance without throttling. This drive truly embodies what you need for the Lexar best allocation unit size for SSD and gaming experience.
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Key Features:
- Designed specifically for PS5 and PC gaming.
- Blazing-fast read speeds up to 7400MB/s and write speeds up to 6500MB/s for minimal load times.
- Massive 4TB capacity with 3200TBW endurance.
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- HMB (Host Memory Buffer) and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance on PC.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds dramatically reduce game load times.
- Large 4TB capacity allows for a vast game library.
- Pre-installed heatsink is perfect for PS5 and high-performance PC builds.
- Reliable performance during long gaming sessions.
- Excellent endurance rating.
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Cons:
- Premium pricing due to high capacity and performance.
- Heatsink might be too tall for some very compact laptop builds (though primarily designed for desktop/PS5).
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise its incredible speed and seamless integration with their PS5 consoles, often citing a noticeable difference in game loading and asset streaming. PC users appreciate the consistent performance under heavy load, attributing it to the efficient heatsink.
2. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
For the on-the-go creator or gamer who needs ultra-fast, rugged external storage, the Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a versatile powerhouse. This isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a mobile workstation in your pocket, featuring an integrated hub that expands its utility. Whether you’re capturing ProRes footage on your iPhone, backing up game captures, or carrying your favorite titles to a friend’s house, its blazing speeds and robust design ensure your data is always accessible and safe.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for portability.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector for convenience.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports for expanded connectivity.
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage directly.
- Ready for travel: IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for an external drive.
- Rugged build with IP65 rating provides peace of mind.
- Integrated hub is incredibly useful for mobile setups.
- Ideal for content creators working with large video files.
- Perfect for carrying games for quick installation on other machines.
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Cons:
- Wireless Type-C connector requires a firm connection.
- While fast, it won’t match internal NVMe speeds for primary gaming drive.
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User Impressions: Users love the convenience and versatility of the integrated hub, especially photographers and videographers who need to connect multiple peripherals on the go. Its compact size and robust build quality are frequently highlighted as major advantages for travel and outdoor shoots.
3. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
Just like its 1TB sibling, the Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub offers the same fantastic combination of speed, durability, and versatility, but with double the storage capacity. This makes it an even more compelling choice for those who need ample space for their extensive game libraries, massive video projects, or a comprehensive backup solution that can withstand the rigors of travel. It’s the ultimate companion for professionals and serious gamers who demand both performance and capacity on the move.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for portability.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector for convenience.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports for expanded connectivity.
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage directly.
- Ready for travel: IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Doubles the storage of the 1TB version, perfect for larger data sets.
- Maintains excellent external drive speeds and ruggedness.
- Integrated hub remains a significant convenience factor.
- Ideal for high-capacity external game storage or professional media.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to increased capacity.
- Still limited by USB interface speeds compared to internal NVMe.
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User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the expanded 2TB capacity, noting it’s perfect for extended shooting sessions or for carrying a larger collection of files without worrying about running out of space. The reliability and all-in-one nature of the device make it a favorite for mobile setups.
4. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2…
The Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink is a phenomenal choice for serious gamers and power users looking for a high-performance internal drive without breaking the bank. Offering exceptional PCIe Gen4 speeds that are twice as fast as Gen3 SSDs, this drive will slash load times and deliver incredibly smooth performance across all your applications and games. The integrated heatsink is a crucial addition, ensuring optimal thermal management and sustained performance, making it a stellar option for both PC gaming and as a PlayStation 5 upgrade. It’s a prime example of excellent value in the Lexar best allocation unit size for SSD and gaming category.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- 2TB capacity with 1500TBW endurance.
- Includes a heatsink for enhanced cooling and power efficiency.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth transfer speeds.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds significantly improve system responsiveness and game loading.
- Integrated heatsink for excellent thermal management.
- Impressive power efficiency, beneficial for both desktops and laptops (where space allows).
- Great value for its performance tier.
- PS5 compatibility adds to its versatility.
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Cons:
- Heatsink might prevent installation in ultra-slim laptops or devices with very tight clearances.
- Still a significant investment for a 2TB drive.
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User Impressions: Many users highlight the NM790’s incredible speed-to-price ratio, stating it performs on par with more expensive drives. PS5 owners are particularly pleased with the easy installation and noticeable performance boost, while PC gamers appreciate the cool operation under heavy loads.
5. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
For gamers and professionals who need top-tier internal performance but at a slightly more accessible capacity and price point, the Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD is an outstanding choice. This internal NVMe drive delivers the same formidable PCIe Gen4 speeds as its larger sibling, ensuring lightning-fast boot times, rapid application launches, and incredibly quick game loading. Without an integrated heatsink, it’s particularly well-suited for laptops, mini-PCs, or motherboards that come with their own M.2 heatsinks. This flexibility, combined with its power efficiency, makes it a highly attractive option.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- 1TB capacity with 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 smoother transfer speeds.
- 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:
- Outstanding PCIe Gen4 speeds for a 1TB drive.
- Excellent power efficiency is beneficial for laptops and systems with power constraints.
- Single-sided design ensures broad compatibility, especially for laptops.
- Great price-to-performance ratio for a high-speed 1TB NVMe.
- PS5 compatible for an internal storage upgrade.
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Cons:
- No included heatsink, so users will need to rely on motherboard cooling or purchase one separately for optimal desktop/PS5 use.
- 1TB might feel limiting for very large game libraries over time.
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend this drive for its “snappy” performance and responsiveness, noting significant improvements in boot times and game loads. Its compatibility with laptops and PS5 (when paired with a separate heatsink) is a major plus, making it a highly recommended upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Finding the right Lexar SSD for your needs and understanding the nuances of storage can raise a few questions. Here are some of the most common ones.
Q1: What is the ideal allocation unit size for SSDs used in gaming?
A1: For most modern SSDs and operating systems (Windows 10/11), the default allocation unit size (often 4KB or 16KB) is generally the best choice and perfectly adequate for gaming. Modern Lexar NVMe SSDs are so fast that the impact of changing this setting is usually negligible. Focus on getting a high-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive, and you’ll see the biggest gains.
Q2: Do Lexar SSDs come pre-formatted with an optimal allocation unit size?
A2: Yes, Lexar SSDs, like most new drives, typically come unformatted or with a basic partition ready for you to set up with your operating system. When you format the drive during OS installation or via disk management, the default allocation unit size selected by Windows (or your chosen OS) is usually the optimal setting for general use, including gaming.
Q3: How important are read/write speeds for gaming SSDs?
A3: Read/write speeds are very important for gaming! Faster read speeds directly translate to quicker game loading, faster asset streaming within games, and shorter boot times for your OS. High write speeds are beneficial for installing new games, downloading updates, and recording gameplay. Lexar’s PCIe Gen4 NVMe drives offer exceptional speeds, making them ideal for a smooth gaming experience.
Q4: Should I get an SSD with a heatsink for gaming?
A4: For high-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs, especially those used in intensive gaming or PS5, a heatsink is highly recommended. These drives can generate significant heat under load, and a heatsink helps dissipate that heat, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring sustained top-tier performance. Many Lexar gaming SSDs, like the Play and NM790 series, come with integrated heatsinks.
Q5: Is 1TB enough storage for gaming, or should I go for 2TB or more?
A5: This depends on your gaming habits. A 1TB SSD can hold a good number of AAA games, but with modern titles often exceeding 100GB, it can fill up quickly. For serious gamers with large libraries, 2TB or 4TB offers much more breathing room, allowing you to install many games without constantly managing space. Consider your budget and how many games you want readily accessible.
Q6: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs, and why does it matter for gaming?
A6: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs connect directly to the motherboard via PCIe lanes, offering significantly higher speeds (thousands of MB/s) compared to older SATA SSDs (capped around 550MB/s). For gaming, NVMe drives dramatically reduce load times and improve overall system responsiveness, providing a much smoother experience. Lexar’s top gaming SSDs are all NVMe.
Q7: Can I use an external Lexar portable SSD for gaming?
A7: Yes, you can! External Lexar portable SSDs like the Professional Go series are great for storing and launching games, especially if you have a console or PC with limited internal space. While they won’t match the raw speed of internal NVMe drives, their high USB transfer rates still offer a massive improvement over traditional external HDDs, making them excellent for casual gaming on the go or expanding console storage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SSD is a critical step in optimizing your gaming setup. While the “Lexar best allocation unit size for SSD and gaming” might be a nuanced technicality, the real game-changer is the quality and performance of the SSD itself. Lexar offers a fantastic range of drives, from the high-capacity, heatsink-equipped internal NVMe powerhouses perfect for PS5 and PC, to rugged, versatile portable SSDs with integrated hubs.
By focusing on a high-speed PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive with ample capacity and good thermal management (like the Lexar Play or NM790 series), you’ll ensure your games load faster, run smoother, and provide the immersive experience you crave. Don’t let technical jargon hold you back; equip your rig with a Lexar SSD and get ready to dominate!