When you’re building or upgrading an AM5 system, you’re looking for top-tier performance across the board. The AMD Ryzen 7000 and newer series processors on the AM5 platform are absolute powerhouses, and they demand storage solutions that can keep up. A slow SSD can bottleneck even the fastest CPU, leading to frustrating load times, sluggish file transfers, and a less-than-stellar computing experience. That’s why choosing the right storage is crucial.
Lexar has been a trusted name in flash memory for years, and they offer a range of solid-state drives (SSDs) that are well-suited for the demanding nature of AM5 platforms, whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a professional content creator, or just someone who wants snappy everyday performance. But with so many options, how do you pick the Lexar best SSD for AM5? We’ve rounded up five excellent Lexar SSDs, breaking down what makes each one stand out, so you can make an informed decision for your next build.
Let’s dive into our top picks!
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This isn’t your typical internal SSD, but for AM5 users who need blazing-fast, portable storage with added versatility, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with an integrated hub is a game-changer. It’s perfect for creators on the move, allowing you to capture high-resolution footage directly and transfer it swiftly to your powerful AM5 desktop or laptop. The built-in hub is a fantastic bonus, streamlining your portable workstation.
Key Features:
* Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability
* Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensure firm insertion)
* Capture Apple ProRes footage with ease
* Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports for ultimate flexibility
* Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write for 4K recording
* IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant; drop-resistant up to 1 meter
* Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
* Exceptional portability with a rugged design
* Built-in hub adds significant utility for creative professionals
* High speeds ideal for video recording and quick backups
* Durable construction for peace of mind
* Great for extending storage of mobile devices and quick transfers to an AM5 system
Cons:
* Not an internal solution for primary AM5 system storage
* Performance might be bottlenecked by older USB standards on some devices
* Price point may be higher due to the integrated hub
User Impressions:
Users love the convenience and robust build of this portable SSD. The integrated hub gets high praise for reducing cable clutter and expanding connectivity options for laptops and other devices. Many content creators find it indispensable for on-the-go workflows and quick data offloading to their powerful AM5 editing rigs.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Now we’re talking serious internal storage for your AM5 machine! The Lexar NM790 is a true performance beast, offering incredible PCIe Gen 4 speeds that will make your operating system feel snappier, games load faster, and large files transfer in the blink of an eye. This drive punches above its weight, delivering exceptional performance while being surprisingly power-efficient, making it a strong contender for the Lexar best SSD for AM5 systems focusing on raw speed.
Key Features:
* [2TB] Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
* 1500TBW endurance rating
* Up to 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, seamless performance
* Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
* Compatible with PlayStation 5 (for expanded game storage)
* Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops and compact AM5 builds
* Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
* Blazing-fast Gen 4 NVMe speeds for maximum AM5 performance
* Excellent power efficiency helps reduce heat and extends laptop battery life
* High endurance rating ensures longevity
* HMB 3.0 provides robust performance without dedicated DRAM
* Versatile for both PC and PS5 gaming
Cons:
* No integrated heatsink, which might require a motherboard or aftermarket solution for sustained heavy loads
* While faster than Gen 3, it’s not a Gen 5 drive (though Gen 5 is still niche for many users)
User Impressions:
Gamers and power users consistently rave about the speed improvements witnessed with the NM790. Boot times are instantaneous, and game loading screens become a thing of the past. Users appreciate the balance of performance and efficiency, often noting its suitability for both high-end gaming and demanding professional applications on their AM5 builds.
Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe
For those who demand massive storage and superior thermal management, especially during intense gaming sessions or heavy workloads on their AM5 setup, the Lexar 4TB Play SSD with an integrated heatsink is an outstanding choice. This drive isn’t just fast; it’s built to stay cool, ensuring consistent top-tier performance when you’re pushing your system to its limits. It’s also specifically designed with console compatibility in mind, but its benefits translate perfectly to PC gaming.
Key Features:
* Designed to coordinate with your PS5, but fully compatible with PC
* Max speeds: 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write for reduced load times
* Massive 4TB capacity with 3200TBW endurance
* Play games directly from the drive on compatible consoles (and PC)
* Unique integrated heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling
* HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved PC performance and responsiveness
* Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
* Massive 4TB capacity for extensive game libraries or large project files
* Integrated heatsink provides excellent thermal management out of the box
* Top-tier PCIe Gen 4 speeds for lightning-fast performance
* High endurance rating for long-term reliability
* Seamlessly compatible with AM5 PCs and PS5 for versatile use
Cons:
* The integrated heatsink might be too tall for some ultra-compact AM5 motherboards or laptop enclosures
* Potentially overkill for users who don’t need 4TB of ultra-fast storage
User Impressions:
This drive is a hit with gamers and video editors who need both speed and space. The pre-installed heatsink is a huge plus, simplifying installation and providing confidence in sustained performance. Users particularly love the ample capacity for their growing game libraries, making it an easy recommendation for those building a high-performance gaming PC or workstation with an AM5 CPU.
Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
While internal storage is key, sometimes you need high-speed external storage that’s as versatile as your AM5 system. The Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD offers impressive speeds and a unique magnetic design that’s incredibly handy for mobile creators. Whether you’re offloading footage from your phone to your powerful desktop or carrying large project files between different AM5 workstations, this drive offers a blend of performance and convenience.
Key Features:
* Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write for swift file transfers
* MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to smartphones (metal ring accessory included for other devices)
* Supports recording Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
* Free Lexar App access for auto backup and mobile device storage expansion
* IP65 dust and water resistance; drop resistant up to 3M
* Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with comfortable grip and cable organizer/lanyard
* Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained performance
Pros:
* Excellent external transfer speeds for large files and professional workflows
* Magnetic attachment is incredibly convenient for mobile productivity
* Rugged, durable design makes it suitable for travel
* Thermal control keeps performance consistent
* Great for expanding mobile device storage and quickly transferring media to an AM5 system
Cons:
* Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speeds, which not all AM5 motherboards will have (though Gen 2×1 is still fast)
* External drives are not a substitute for fast internal primary storage
User Impressions:
Mobile videographers and photographers are particularly impressed with the ES5. The magnetic attachment is a standout feature, and the ability to record high-resolution video directly to the drive is a major plus. Users appreciate its robust build and the fast transfer speeds when moving content to their more powerful AM5-based editing stations.
Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
This is the 2TB version of the same fantastic portable SSD we reviewed earlier, designed for creators who need more space without sacrificing speed or convenience. Just like its 1TB sibling, this Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is an excellent companion for any AM5 system owner who frequently deals with large media files, needs extra ports on the go, or wants a robust backup solution. The extra capacity means even more flexibility for high-resolution video projects or extensive photo libraries.
Key Features:
* Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability
* Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensure firm insertion)
* Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease
* Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports plus adapters/cables for maximum flexibility
* Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording
* IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant; drop-resistant up to 1 meter
* Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress
* Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
* Doubled capacity (2TB) compared to the 1TB version for more storage
* Combines fast external storage with a useful multi-port hub
* Highly durable and travel-ready with IP65 rating
* Ideal for quick backups and expanding storage for mobile devices and laptops
* Excellent for offloading large creative files to an AM5 workstation
Cons:
* External drive, not for primary internal AM5 storage
* Maximum speeds are lower than internal NVMe drives
* The hub functionality is great but might not be utilized by all users
User Impressions:
Customers who needed more space than the 1TB model appreciate this 2TB version immensely. The blend of a high-speed SSD, a built-in hub, and a rugged design makes it incredibly practical for professionals who are constantly moving large files between cameras, laptops, and their main AM5 desktop. It’s lauded for its reliability and versatility in dynamic work environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lexar SSDs for AM5
Q1: What makes an SSD “best” for an AM5 system?
A1: For an AM5 system, the “best” SSD typically means an NVMe drive utilizing the PCIe Gen 4 interface (or ideally Gen 5 for future-proofing). These drives offer significantly faster read/write speeds compared to older SATA SSDs, directly translating to quicker boot times, faster game loading, and rapid file transfers. Look for high capacities (1TB or more) and, for sustained performance under heavy loads, a heatsink is often beneficial.
Q2: Is PCIe Gen 5 necessary for AM5, or is Gen 4 enough?
A2: While the AM5 platform supports PCIe Gen 5, for most users right now, PCIe Gen 4 is more than enough and offers excellent value. Gen 5 SSDs are cutting-edge, but they are significantly more expensive and the real-world performance difference for everyday tasks and even most gaming is negligible compared to a high-end Gen 4 drive. Gen 4 drives like the Lexar NM790 already deliver incredible speeds.
Q3: Do Lexar SSDs come with heatsinks?
A3: Some Lexar NVMe SSDs, like the Lexar Play SSD, come with an integrated heatsink, which is great for thermal management. Other models, such as the NM790, do not. For drives without a heatsink, your AM5 motherboard might have a built-in M.2 heatsink, or you can purchase an aftermarket one, which is recommended for optimal performance during intensive use.
Q4: Can I use an external Lexar SSD with my AM5 desktop for gaming?
A4: You can install and play games from an external Lexar SSD connected to your AM5 desktop. However, for the absolute best gaming performance (e.g., fastest load times), an internal NVMe PCIe Gen 4 or Gen 5 SSD is generally preferred due to higher sustained speeds and lower latency. External SSDs like the Professional Go or ES5 are excellent for game storage, especially if your internal drive is full, but internal remains king for primary game installs.
Q5: What is Host Memory Buffer (HMB) and why is it important for AM5 SSDs?
A5: Host Memory Buffer (HMB) allows an NVMe SSD to use a small portion of your computer’s RAM as a cache, rather than needing its own dedicated DRAM chips. This helps reduce the cost of the SSD while still enabling fast performance, especially for everyday tasks. For an AM5 system with plenty of RAM, HMB can provide a very smooth user experience, as seen in the Lexar NM790.
Q6: How easy is it to install a Lexar M.2 NVMe SSD into an AM5 motherboard?
A6: Installing an M.2 NVMe SSD into an AM5 motherboard is usually very straightforward. Most AM5 boards have multiple M.2 slots, often with tool-less installation mechanisms or a single screw. You simply slide the SSD into the slot, secure it, and if applicable, install the motherboard’s M.2 heatsink. Your system BIOS should automatically detect it, and you can then format it within Windows or your preferred OS.
Q7: Are these Lexar SSDs compatible with PlayStation 5?
A7: Yes, several Lexar NVMe SSDs, including the Lexar NM790 and the Lexar Play SSD with Heatsink, are fully compatible with the PlayStation 5 for expanding its internal storage. The PS5 requires a PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD with specific speed and physical dimensions, and these Lexar drives meet those requirements, often outperforming the minimum specifications.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right SSD is paramount for unlocking the full potential of your AM5 system. Whether you prioritize blistering internal speeds for gaming and content creation or require robust, fast portable storage for your dynamic workflow, Lexar offers compelling options. For a truly internal performance upgrade, the Lexar NM790 and Lexar Play with Heatsink stand out as the Lexar best SSD for AM5 builds, delivering incredible PCIe Gen 4 speeds that will elevate your computing experience.
Don’t let slow storage hold your powerful AMD Ryzen system back. Invest in a Lexar SSD and experience the difference high-speed storage makes!