Hey there, fellow gamers! Are you looking to upgrade your gaming rig’s storage or maybe grab a speedy external drive for your console? If you’re diving into the world of SSDs, you might have heard whispers about “allocation size” or “cluster size” and wondered if there’s some secret setting for getting the absolute best performance for your games. It’s a valid question, and one we’re going to tackle head-on, especially when it comes to excellent drives from Lexar.
Choosing the Lexar best allocation size for SSD for games can feel a bit like finding a hidden cheat code, but in reality, for most modern gaming setups and SSDs, the default settings are usually more than sufficient. Allocation size (also known as cluster size or block size) refers to the smallest amount of disk space that can be allocated to hold a file. If a file is smaller than the allocation unit size, it still takes up the entire unit. If it’s larger, it occupies multiple units.
While a smaller allocation size might save a tiny bit of space by reducing internal fragmentation (unused space within a cluster), it can also lead to more clusters per file, potentially increasing the file system’s overhead. Conversely, a larger allocation size can sometimes improve sequential read/write speeds for very large files by reducing the number of read/write operations, but it might waste space with smaller files. For games, which consist of many large and small files, the default allocation size (often 4KB or 16KB for NTFS) is usually a well-balanced choice. Most gamers won’t notice a significant performance difference by tweaking this setting. Instead, focusing on a high-quality, fast SSD like Lexar’s offerings will yield far more tangible benefits for your gaming experience.
So, instead of obsessing over obscure settings, let’s focus on what truly matters: getting a blazing-fast Lexar SSD that delivers incredible load times and smooth gameplay. We’ve rounded up 5 top Lexar SSDs that are perfect for gamers, whether you need an internal powerhouse or a rugged portable solution. Let’s dive in!
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
This portable powerhouse from Lexar is an absolute game-changer for content creators on the go, but don’t let its creative focus fool you – it’s incredibly versatile for gamers too! Imagine taking your favorite games with you, ready to plug into a laptop or even a compatible console for instant play. What truly sets it apart is the integrated hub, turning one USB-C port into four, offering ultimate flexibility for connecting peripherals or other drives. This isn’t just a storage device; it’s a mobile workstation and gaming hub rolled into one ultra-compact, travel-ready package.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector with integrated hub (four USB Type-C ports).
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording and swift backups.
- IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, plus drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Integrated USB-C hub is incredibly convenient.
- Excellent read/write speeds for a portable SSD.
- Highly durable and resistant to the elements.
- Compact and easy to carry anywhere.
- Great for expanding storage on consoles or laptops.
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Cons:
- Wireless connector needs to be firmly inserted.
- 1TB might be limiting for a massive game library.
- Primarily designed for content creation, but excellent for gaming.
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User Impressions: Users absolutely love the versatility and robust build of this drive. The integrated hub frequently gets praised for decluttering setups, while the speed and ruggedness make it a reliable companion for both work and play. Gamers appreciate its fast load times for external game libraries.
Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
Just like its 1TB sibling, the 2TB version of the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub offers all the incredible features and benefits but with double the storage capacity. This means more games, more footage, and more freedom to carry everything you need without compromise. For gamers, this 2TB option means you can load up an extensive library of your favorite titles, ensuring you’re always ready for action, whether you’re at a friend’s place or traveling. It combines blazing-fast performance, extreme durability, and unparalleled connectivity into one sleek device, truly excelling where versatility meets capacity.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact and highly portable design.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector featuring an integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for rapid data transfers.
- IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, along with 1-meter drop resistance.
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries.
- Integrated USB-C hub is a huge productivity and connectivity booster.
- Superior durability makes it perfect for travel and outdoor use.
- Excellent speeds for loading games and large files quickly.
- Offers exceptional value for capacity, speed, and features.
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Cons:
- The wireless connector requires firm insertion.
- Might be overkill if you only need basic storage without the hub.
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User Impressions: Customers are thrilled with the expanded storage and the convenience of the built-in hub. Many highlight its exceptional performance for large file transfers and seamless experience. Gamers specifically mention its reliability and speed for running games directly from the drive.
Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
Now, if you’re serious about internal PC gaming performance and want to experience next-gen speeds, the Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO is where it’s at. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a leap forward. Harnessing the power of PCIe 5.0, this NVMe SSD delivers absolutely blistering read/write speeds that will make game load times virtually non-existent. Forget about worrying about the Lexar best allocation size for SSD for games when you have raw speed like this! It’s engineered to reduce bottlenecks, accelerate AI models, and with Microsoft DirectStorage support, your gaming experience will be smoother, more responsive, and utterly immersive. This is the drive for enthusiasts who demand the absolute best.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology with read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s.
- Accelerates load times by 200%, ideal for AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 systems.
- Powerful 6nm controller for optimized heat control and efficient performance.
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, accelerating model training and data processing.
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache for enhanced data transfer speeds.
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for significantly boosted game loads and minimal delays.
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Pros:
- Unrivaled read/write speeds for internal SSDs.
- Drastically reduces game loading times.
- Future-proof with PCIe 5.0 technology.
- Enhanced heat control ensures sustained performance.
- Excellent for high-end gaming and demanding applications.
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Cons:
- Requires a compatible PCIe 5.0 motherboard.
- Premium price point for cutting-edge technology.
- May generate more heat than slower NVMe drives, potentially requiring good cooling.
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User Impressions: Early adopters are blown away by the speed, reporting instant game loads and incredibly fast system responsiveness. They emphasize that while it’s a premium product, the performance uplift is undeniable, making it a worthy investment for serious gamers and professionals.
Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable SSD…
This Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD, distinct from the versions with the “wireless plug-and-play” hub, offers a refined take on portable storage. It’s built for those who need rugged durability and impressive speed without compromising on connectivity. With a built-in hub featuring 4 USB Type-C connectors that can supply up to 30W power, it’s perfect for consolidating your gear while on the move. Whether you’re a photographer offloading footage or a gamer expanding your console’s library, its IP65 dust- and water-resistance, coupled with anti-drop protection, means your precious data is safe, no matter where your adventures take you.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write with USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Built-in hub with 4 USB Type-C connectors, offering up to 30W power supply.
- RUGGED DURABILITY: IP65 dust- and water-resistance and 3.3′ (1m) anti-drop protection.
- Compact and portable design (1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32″, 0.5 oz).
- Universal compatibility with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows, iOS, Android, and various devices.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and ruggedness.
- Integrated powered USB-C hub is extremely useful.
- Highly portable and lightweight.
- Broad device compatibility.
- Great for gaming on the go or console storage.
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Cons:
- May be slightly larger than portable SSDs without a hub.
- 30W power supply might not be enough for all power-hungry devices simultaneously.
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User Impressions: Users praise its compact size combined with its robust features, especially the powered USB-C hub which is a major convenience. Its speed is consistently highlighted as a strong point, making it a go-to for professionals and gamers who need reliable, fast external storage.
Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, USB…
When it comes to portable gaming, the Lexar 2TB Armor 700 is built like a tank and runs like a rocket. This beast takes portability to a new level with blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, offering read/write speeds of up to 2000MB/s. That’s double the speed of many other portable SSDs, meaning your games load twice as fast, and large file transfers are a breeze. Designed for the adventurous gamer, its IP66 rating means it’s seriously resistant to water and dust, and it can withstand drops from up to 3 meters. Plus, with support for Apple ProRes recording, it’s a versatile tool that easily extends from your iPhone 15 Pro to your gaming console. Forget about micro-optimizing the Lexar best allocation size for SSD for games; with this kind of speed and durability, you’re already at the top of your game!
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance (2000MB/s max read/write).
- Rated IP66 for superior water and dust protection, and 3-meter drop resistance.
- Supports Apple ProRes recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max).
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained high performance.
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles.
- Includes Lexar DataShield (256-bit AES encryption) for advanced security.
- Comes with a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Exceptional 2000MB/s speeds for ultra-fast gaming and transfers.
- Extremely rugged with IP66 rating and 3-meter drop protection.
- Excellent thermal management for consistent performance.
- Built-in security features for data protection.
- Highly versatile across many devices, including latest iPhones and gaming consoles.
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Cons:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 requires a compatible port to reach full speed.
- Magnetic ring for iPhone sold separately.
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the sheer speed and robust construction of the Armor 700. Gamers particularly highlight how quickly games load and how seamlessly it works with their consoles and PCs, even in demanding situations. The durability provides peace of mind for anyone taking their data on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is allocation size (or cluster size) on an SSD?
A1: Allocation size refers to the smallest block of disk space that can be allocated to store a file. When you format an SSD, you choose a file system (like NTFS for Windows) and an allocation unit size. Even if a file is smaller than this unit, it will occupy the entire block.
Q2: Does the Lexar best allocation size for SSD for games really matter for performance?
A2: For most modern SSDs and gaming scenarios, the allocation size has a minimal impact on overall gaming performance. The default allocation size (often 4KB or 16KB for NTFS) is usually well-optimized for a mix of file sizes, which games typically have. Factors like the SSD’s read/write speeds, controller, and connection interface (SATA, NVMe, PCIe Gen) are far more critical.
Q3: What allocation size should I choose if I’m formatting my Lexar SSD for games?
A3: If you’re unsure, stick with the default allocation size recommended by your operating system (usually 4KB for NTFS). This default is typically a good balance between storage efficiency and performance for general use, including gaming. Only advanced users with very specific use cases might consider adjusting this, and even then, the benefits for gaming are often negligible.
Q4: Will a larger allocation size make my games load faster on my Lexar SSD?
A4: Not significantly, and sometimes it can even be detrimental. While a larger allocation size might offer a slight edge for sequential reads/writes of extremely large, single files, games typically consist of many files of varying sizes. A larger allocation size can lead to more wasted space (internal fragmentation) if you have many small files, and for smaller files, it won’t necessarily speed things up. Focus on the raw speed of your Lexar SSD itself.
Q5: What are the most important factors for a great Lexar gaming SSD, beyond allocation size?
A5: Absolutely! The most important factors include:
– Interface: NVMe PCIe (Gen4 or Gen5) offers the fastest speeds.
– Read/Write Speeds: Higher sequential and random read/write speeds translate to faster load times.
– Capacity: Enough space for your games and operating system.
– Controller & DRAM Cache: These improve performance and endurance.
– Reliability & Endurance: A good warranty and high TBW (Total Bytes Written) rating.
Q6: Can I use a portable Lexar SSD for gaming on a console like a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S?
A6: Yes, many portable Lexar SSDs, especially those with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Gen 2×2 speeds (like the Lexar Armor 700 or Professional Go series), are excellent for expanding console storage. You can typically store and play backward-compatible games directly from the external SSD, or use it to store current-gen games, though you might need to transfer them to the internal drive to play them. Always check your console’s specifications for external storage requirements.
Q7: Is there any software I should use to optimize my Lexar SSD for gaming?
A7: Modern operating systems like Windows already do a good job of managing SSDs. Ensure TRIM is enabled (it usually is by default) to help maintain performance over time. Avoid defragmenting your SSD, as it’s unnecessary and can reduce its lifespan. Lexar might also provide its own SSD management software for firmware updates or health monitoring, which can be useful.
Q8: What’s the difference between a portable SSD with a hub and one without for gaming?
A8: A portable SSD with an integrated hub (like some of the Lexar Professional Go models) offers extra USB ports, which can be incredibly useful for connecting other peripherals, charging devices, or even attaching a keyboard/mouse if you’re gaming on a portable setup. A portable SSD without a hub is typically more compact and lighter but only provides storage. For gamers who need extra connectivity on the go, a hub-equipped drive is a fantastic convenience.