Finding the perfect storage solution can feel like a quest, especially with so many options out there. If you’re looking for a sweet spot between capacity, performance, and value, a 2TB SSD is often the ideal choice. And when it comes to reliability and innovation, Lexar stands out as a strong contender. But which Lexar 2TB SSD offers the best bang for your buck?
We’ve scoured their impressive lineup to bring you an in-depth look at seven of the best Lexar 2TB SSD for the money, catering to different needs—whether you’re a gamer, a content creator, or just someone looking for fast, dependable storage. Let’s dive in and find your next drive!
1. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
The Lexar ES3 External SSD is a fantastic all-rounder for anyone needing fast, portable storage. It’s designed for efficiency, offering speeds significantly faster than traditional hard disk drives, making file transfers and backups a breeze. What really sets it apart is its focus on heat management and durability, ensuring your data stays safe and the drive performs optimally even during intensive use. Plus, the included software for encryption and data recovery adds an extra layer of peace of mind.
Key Features:
– Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, 9.5x faster than HDDs
– Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for efficient heat dissipation
– Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for enhanced durability
– Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable for various devices
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and Lexar Recovery Tool
Pros:
– Excellent balance of speed and portability
– Robust durability with drop resistance and good heat management
– Versatile compatibility with both USB-C and USB-A
– Added value with encryption and data recovery software
– Ideal for everyday use and quick backups
Cons:
– Not the absolute fastest external SSD Lexar offers
– External drives are inherently more prone to loss than internal ones
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise the ES3 for its reliability and ease of use. Many appreciate the straightforward plug-and-play functionality across different devices and the peace of mind offered by the encryption software. It’s often cited as a solid workhorse for daily tasks and media storage.
2. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
For the creative professional on the move, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with an integrated hub is a game-changer. It’s incredibly compact, designed to be with you wherever inspiration strikes, but its standout feature is undoubtedly the built-in hub. This means you not only get blazing-fast storage for your 4K footage but also extra USB Type-C ports to connect other peripherals, making your mobile workstation truly flexible. Capturing Apple ProRes footage directly becomes a seamless experience with this device.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact design for portability
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensuring firm insertion)
– Supports Apple ProRes footage capture and storage
– Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports plus adapters/cables
– Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
– IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Unique integrated hub for expanded connectivity
– Excellent for content creators, especially with Apple ProRes support
– Highly durable with IP65 rating and drop resistance
– Wireless Type-C design reduces cable clutter
– Long warranty period
Cons:
– Wireless connector requires firm insertion
– Compatibility testing with newer iPhones (17 Series) is ongoing
– The hub functionality might be overkill for casual users
User Impressions:
Reviewers highlight the convenience of the integrated hub, calling it a smart solution for travel-heavy workflows. The ruggedness and ProRes recording capabilities are frequently praised by videographers and photographers who need reliable, fast storage in challenging environments.
3. Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
The Lexar ES5 Magnetic External SSD takes portable storage to another level with its ingenious MagSafe-compatible design, allowing you to easily snap it onto your compatible smartphone. Beyond its magnetic prowess, this drive boasts incredible speeds, pushing up to 2000MB/s for both read and write, ensuring your workflow is smoother than ever. It’s perfect for recording high-resolution video directly from your phone and comes with a sleek, durable liquid silicone build.
Key Features:
– Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds
– MagSafe-compatible design for easy smartphone attachment (metal ring accessory included for other devices)
– Supports Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
– Free access to Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion
– Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 3M
– Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with cable organizer/lanyard
– Thermal control design for sustained high performance
Pros:
– Exceptional speed for an external SSD
– Innovative magnetic attachment for mobile devices
– Robust support for professional video recording (ProRes, Samsung Pro Video)
– High durability with IP65 rating and 3M drop resistance
– Excellent thermal management for consistent performance
Cons:
– Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for maximum speed, which not all devices support
– Magnetic feature is less useful if you don’t use it with a phone
– Higher price point due to advanced features
User Impressions:
Customers are thrilled with the ES5’s speed and the unique magnetic attachment, finding it incredibly convenient for mobile content creation. The ability to record high-quality video directly and the robust build quality are consistently mentioned as major selling points.
4. Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
When you need an external SSD that can truly withstand the elements, the Lexar Armor 700 is your go-to. This portable powerhouse combines blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s with an incredibly rugged design. Rated IP66 for superior dust and water protection and capable of shrugging off 3-meter drops, it’s built for adventurers and professionals working in extreme environments. It’s also fantastic for iPhone 15 Pro users, allowing direct Apple Pro Res recording. For the absolute best Lexar 2TB SSD for the money in terms of rugged durability and speed, this one’s a strong contender.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance (2000MB/s max read/write)
– IP66 rated for extreme water and dust protection
– Built to withstand 3-meter drops
– Supports Apple Pro Res recording up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max
– Unique Thermal Control Design for sustained high performance
– Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Unmatched ruggedness for extreme conditions
– Phenomenal speeds for rapid data transfers
– Excellent for iPhone 15 Pro/Max video recording
– Reliable thermal management prevents throttling
– Comprehensive compatibility and security features
– Generous five-year warranty
Cons:
– Magnetic ring for iPhone sold separately
– Might be overkill (and pricier) if extreme durability isn’t a primary concern
– Full speed requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port
User Impressions:
This SSD earns high marks for its military-grade durability and impressive speeds. Users frequently cite its robust build as a major advantage, especially those who work outdoors or travel extensively. The seamless iPhone 15 Pro recording feature is a big hit with mobile videographers.
5. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re looking to supercharge your PC or PlayStation 5 from the inside, the Lexar NM790 internal NVMe SSD is a phenomenal choice. Delivering mind-blowing speeds of up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write, it’s 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs and perfect for hardcore gamers, professionals, and content creators who demand instantaneous load times and seamless multitasking. Its efficiency is also noteworthy, consuming up to 40% less power than other DRAM-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs, making it a powerful yet sensible upgrade.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW
– 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 transfers 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:
– Unbelievably fast internal storage
– Significantly reduces loading times for games and applications
– Energy-efficient design
– PS5 compatible for expanded gaming storage
– Single-sided form factor fits well in laptops and compact builds
– High endurance (TBW) and long warranty
Cons:
– Internal only, not for external storage needs
– Requires a compatible PCIe Gen4 M.2 slot
– Installation can be daunting for beginners
User Impressions:
Gamers and power users consistently praise the NM790 for its transformative speed, noting significant improvements in boot times, game loading, and overall system responsiveness. Its PS5 compatibility is a huge plus for console gamers looking for expanded storage without sacrificing performance.
6. Lexar 2TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid
For those looking to breathe new life into an older laptop or desktop without breaking the bank, the Lexar NS100 2.5-inch SATA III SSD is an outstanding value proposition. This internal drive offers a cost-effective way to upgrade from a traditional hard drive, delivering dramatically faster startups, snappier application loads, and quicker data transfers. Its solid-state design means no moving parts, making it far more durable and reliable, being resistant to shocks and vibrations. It’s a fantastic entry-level Lexar best 2TB SSD for the money if you’re working with a SATA interface.
Key Features:
– Upgrade 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
– 960TBW for solid endurance
– Three-year limited product support
Pros:
– Affordable way to significantly boost older system performance
– Much more durable and reliable than HDDs
– Easy to install in most standard laptop and desktop bays
– Low power consumption, extending laptop battery life
– Good endurance rating
Cons:
– Slower than NVMe SSDs
– SATA interface is a legacy technology
– Three-year warranty is shorter than other Lexar professional drives
User Impressions:
Users frequently report immense satisfaction with the NS100 as an upgrade, noting how it transformed their slow, aging computers into much more responsive machines. Its affordability and straightforward installation are often highlighted as key benefits for budget-conscious upgraders.
7. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD
The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD offers a streamlined version of its hub-equipped sibling, focusing purely on ultra-compact, blazing-fast, and rugged portable storage. This drive is ideal for creators who need a highly portable solution without the extra hub ports. Its wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector is super convenient, freeing you from tangled cables, while its impressive speeds make it perfect for recording Apple ProRes 4K 60fps footage directly from your device. It’s also built tough, ready for any adventure with its dust, water, and drop resistance. This is another strong contender for the best Lexar 2TB SSD for the money if your priority is pure portable performance.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact for spontaneous creativity
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensuring firm insertion)
– Instant smartphone storage expansion and seamless data transfers
– Blazing-fast performance: 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
– Supports Apple ProRes 4K 60fps recording
– Compatible with mobile phones, iPads, tablets, Macs, PCs, cameras
– IP65 dust- and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Comes with a protective silicone case
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Extremely portable and lightweight
– Convenient wireless Type-C connection
– Excellent for mobile content creation with ProRes support
– Highly durable with IP65 rating and drop resistance
– Wide device compatibility
– Includes a protective case for extra peace of mind
Cons:
– Wireless connector requires firm insertion
– Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series is ongoing
– Lacks the additional hub ports of its counterpart
User Impressions:
Customers love the extreme portability and the no-fuss, cable-free design of this SSD. Mobile videographers and photographers are particularly fond of its ability to handle demanding 4K ProRes recording on the go, making it a reliable tool for capturing high-quality content.
Finding Your Lexar 2TB SSD Sweet Spot
There you have it—a comprehensive look at some of the best Lexar 2TB SSD for the money, each with its unique strengths. Whether you prioritize internal lightning-fast speeds for gaming, rugged portability for outdoor shoots, or an affordable upgrade for an aging PC, Lexar has a 2TB SSD that fits the bill. Consider your primary use case, required speed, and desired durability, and you’ll be well on your way to making the perfect choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does “for the money” really mean when choosing an SSD?
A1: “For the money” refers to getting the best combination of performance, features, durability, and capacity for the price. It’s about maximizing value, not necessarily just finding the cheapest option. A slightly more expensive drive might offer significantly better speed or ruggedness, making it a better value in the long run for your specific needs.
Q2: What’s the main difference between an external and an internal SSD?
A2: An internal SSD (like the NM790 or NS100) is installed inside your computer or gaming console, serving as its primary or secondary storage. An external SSD (like the ES3, ES5, Armor 700, Professional Go) connects via a cable (usually USB-C) and is portable, used for backups, transferring files between devices, or expanding storage on the go.
Q3: Why should I choose a 2TB SSD over a smaller or larger capacity?
A3: A 2TB SSD strikes an excellent balance for most users. It offers ample space for a large operating system, numerous games, extensive software, and plenty of media files without becoming excessively expensive like 4TB or higher drives. It’s a versatile capacity that serves a wide range of needs for personal and professional use.
Q4: What is NVMe, and why is it faster than SATA?
A4: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a communication protocol specifically designed for SSDs that connects directly to your computer’s PCIe bus. This direct connection allows for incredibly fast data transfer speeds, significantly higher than SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment), which is an older interface originally designed for traditional hard drives.
Q5: What do IP65 and IP66 ratings mean for portable SSDs?
A5: IP ratings (Ingress Protection) indicate how well a device is protected against solids (dust) and liquids (water).
– IP65: Fully protected against dust ingress, and protected against low-pressure jets of water from any direction.
– IP66: Fully protected against dust ingress, and protected against powerful jets of water from any direction.
Higher numbers indicate better protection. These ratings are crucial for drives meant for outdoor or rugged use.
Q6: Can I record 4K video directly to these Lexar portable SSDs?
A6: Yes, several Lexar portable SSDs, particularly the Professional Go series, ES5 Magnetic, and Armor 700, explicitly support direct recording of high-resolution video formats like Apple ProRes 4K 60FPS or even 8K, especially when paired with compatible iPhones or cameras. Their high read/write speeds make this possible without dropping frames.
Q7: Is Lexar a reliable brand for SSDs?
A7: Yes, Lexar has a long-standing reputation in the memory and storage industry, known for producing reliable and high-performance products. Their SSDs often come with competitive warranties and features that cater to both everyday users and demanding professionals, making them a trustworthy choice.