In today’s fast-paced digital world, sluggish storage is simply not an option. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a professional content creator, or just someone who needs lightning-fast access to their files, a high-quality Solid State Drive (SSD) is crucial. While many brands vie for your attention, Lexar has consistently proven itself as a frontrunner in delivering reliable, high-performance storage solutions.
You might be asking, “Is Lexar truly the best company for SSDs?” Well, they certainly make a strong case! With a rich history in flash memory, Lexar has poured years of expertise into crafting SSDs that offer exceptional speed, robust durability, and innovative features tailored for various users. They understand that one size doesn’t fit all, which is why their diverse lineup includes everything from ultra-portable external drives to powerful internal NVMe drives.
We’ve dived deep into Lexar’s impressive offerings to bring you a comprehensive review of 7 top Lexar SSDs. By the end of this article, you’ll see why many consider Lexar the best company for SSD when it comes to balancing performance, innovation, and value.
Why Choose Lexar SSDs?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly touch on what makes Lexar SSDs stand out:
- Blazing Speeds: Lexar’s SSDs consistently deliver impressive read and write speeds, significantly cutting down on load times and file transfers.
- Robust Durability: Many Lexar drives boast features like drop, dust, and water resistance, making them ideal for on-the-go professionals.
- Innovative Features: From integrated hubs to magnetic attachments and advanced thermal management, Lexar isn’t afraid to push boundaries.
- Broad Compatibility: Whether you’re on a PC, Mac, gaming console, or even a smartphone, there’s likely a Lexar SSD designed for your setup.
- Reliable Performance: Backed by solid warranties and a reputation for quality, Lexar drives are built to last.
Now, let’s explore some of their best offerings!
The Top 7 Lexar SSDs Reviewed
1. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This ultra-compact portable SSD is a game-changer for digital nomads and spontaneous creators. What truly makes it shine is the integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, transforming your portable storage into a versatile workstation. It’s designed for seamless 4K recording and swift backups, ensuring you never miss a beat, no matter where your creativity takes you. Its rugged build quality adds peace of mind, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for portability
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly to ensure drive is completely inserted)
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports for ultimate flexibility
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Supports seamless 4K Apple ProRes recording
- Ready for travel: IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Excellent portability and rugged durability
- Integrated hub is incredibly convenient for creators
- High speeds for demanding video formats
- Versatile connectivity with included adapters/cables
- Cons:
- Hub feature might add slight bulk for those needing only storage
- Full compatibility with future iPhone 17 series devices still being tested
- User Impressions: Users rave about the convenience of the built-in hub, praising its ability to declutter their mobile creative setups. The speed and ruggedness are frequently highlighted as major pluses for on-the-go work, making it a favorite for videographers.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Building on the excellence of its 1TB sibling, the 2TB version of the Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub doubles your storage capacity without compromising on performance or portability. This drive is perfect for serious content creators who need more room for their extensive 4K footage libraries and large project files. You get the same incredible speed, the same integrated hub convenience, and the same robust, travel-ready design, but with twice the space to play with.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for portability
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly to ensure drive is completely inserted)
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports for ultimate flexibility
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Supports seamless 4K Apple ProRes recording
- Ready for travel: IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity for extensive media
- Highly portable with integrated hub
- Exceptional speeds for professional workflows
- Durable and reliable for field use
- Cons:
- Premium price point for the added capacity and features
- Compatibility with future iPhone models is still under review
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the expanded storage for larger projects, noting that it handles heavy workloads effortlessly. The combination of speed, durability, and the multi-port hub makes it an indispensable tool for many professionals who rely on external storage.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
The Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD is your go-to solution for everyday storage expansion and rapid backups. It’s designed to be significantly faster than traditional hard disk drives, offering snappy transfers that save you precious time. What sets it apart is its built-in thermal management with double-layer graphite sheets, ensuring the drive stays cool and performs optimally even during intense transfer sessions. Plus, with Lexar DataShield encryption and a recovery tool, your data is both secure and recoverable.
- Key Features:
- Up to 9.5X faster than HDDs with 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion
- Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for everyday durability
- Plug-and-play compatibility with 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Free access to Lexar Recovery Tool for accidentally deleted files
- Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and affordability
- Robust thermal management prevents slowdowns
- Broad compatibility with various devices
- Enhanced data security features
- Cons:
- Lacks the extreme ruggedness (IP rating) of some portable Go models
- Performance might not match high-end USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise the ES3 for its straightforward, fast performance and ease of use across different devices. The security software is a welcome addition, and many find it a perfect blend of everyday reliability and speed for backups and general storage.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
The Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD is where speed meets innovative design, especially for mobile content creators. With blistering read/write speeds up to 2000MB/s, it’s a powerhouse for demanding tasks like 4K120FPS Apple ProRes or 8K30FPS Samsung Pro Video recording. Its unique MagSafe-compatible design allows it to magnetically attach to your smartphone, making on-the-go recording and backup incredibly convenient. Plus, it’s tough, stylish, and built to keep cool under pressure.
- Key Features:
- Blazing-fast speeds: up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy smartphone attachment (metal ring accessory included)
- Supports Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K30FPS
- Includes free access to the Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion
- IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, drop-resistant up to 3M
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with comfortable grip and cable organizer
- Thermal control design ensures optimal performance
- Pros:
- Phenomenal speeds for high-resolution video recording
- Innovative magnetic attachment for mobile devices
- Extremely durable with high IP rating and drop resistance
- Integrated app for seamless mobile backups
- Cons:
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for maximum speeds, which not all devices support
- Premium price tag for cutting-edge features
- User Impressions: Mobile videographers absolutely love the ES5 for its incredible speed and the magnetic attachment, calling it a “must-have” for iPhone filmmaking. Its durability and sleek design also receive high marks, confirming Lexar best company for SSD in this niche.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
Just like its larger counterpart, the Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD brings the same high-speed performance and revolutionary magnetic design in a more compact capacity. This 1TB version is perfect for users who need professional-grade speeds for 4K/8K mobile video recording but don’t require the full 2TB of storage. You still get the robust IP65 rating, the MagSafe compatibility, and the included Lexar App for effortless mobile backups, making it an excellent choice for a powerful, portable workflow.
- Key Features:
- Blazing-fast speeds: up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy smartphone attachment (metal ring accessory included)
- Supports Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K30FPS
- Includes free access to the Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion
- IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, drop-resistant up to 3M
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with comfortable grip and cable organizer
- Thermal control design ensures optimal performance
- Pros:
- Elite speeds for demanding mobile video
- Convenient magnetic attachment for smartphones
- Excellent durability for on-the-go professionals
- More affordable entry point than the 2TB version
- Cons:
- Max speeds require USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port availability
- 1TB might fill up quickly with high-res video footage
- User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the balance of high performance and the smaller footprint of the 1TB model. It’s frequently cited as a powerful, pocket-friendly option for creative professionals who are constantly on the move and recording high-quality video directly to an external device.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe
Gamers, rejoice! The Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink is specifically designed to elevate your gaming experience, especially for PS5 users. With an impressive 4TB capacity and PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe speeds, this drive dramatically reduces load times and delivers silky-smooth gameplay. The integrated heatsink isn’t just for show; it’s crucial for sustained performance during intense gaming sessions, keeping your drive cool. It’s plug-and-play for your PS5, letting you play games directly from the drive without annoying transfers.
- Key Features:
- Designed to coordinate with PS5, enhancing gaming experience
- Max speeds: 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write
- 4TB capacity with 3200TBW endurance
- Tested and approved storage for PS5 console; play games directly
- Unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling
- Compatible with both PS5 and PC gaming
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved PC performance
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Massive 4TB storage capacity for extensive game libraries
- Exceptional speeds for reduced loading times on PS5 and PC
- Integrated heatsink ensures stable, high performance
- Officially tested and approved for PS5
- Cons:
- Primarily geared towards gaming; overkill for basic users
- Heatsink design might not fit all slim PC builds
- User Impressions: PS5 owners are thrilled with this SSD, praising its easy installation and the dramatic improvement in game load times. The large capacity means never having to delete games again, making it a dream come true for serious console and PC gamers.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
The Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD is an internal powerhouse built for those who demand ultimate speed and efficiency from their PC or PS5. This PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 drive boasts phenomenal read/write speeds that are twice as fast as Gen 3 SSDs, making it ideal for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators working with large files. What’s truly impressive is its energy efficiency, consuming up to 40% less power than comparable DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs, making it perfect for laptops and power-conscious builds.
- Key Features:
- 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 Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth transfers
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Top-tier Gen 4 NVMe speeds for professional tasks and gaming
- Remarkable power efficiency, great for laptops
- Excellent endurance for long-term reliability
- PS5 compatibility is a huge bonus
- Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen 4 M.2 slot to achieve full speeds
- Internal drive, so not as portable as external options
- User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the NM790’s raw speed and its ability to handle intensive tasks without breaking a sweat. Its low power consumption is a frequently lauded feature for laptop users, solidifying Lexar’s reputation as the best company for SSD internal drives that balance performance with efficiency.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Lexar a good brand for SSDs?
A1: Absolutely! Lexar has a long-standing reputation in flash memory and consistently produces high-quality, high-performance SSDs. Their drives are known for reliability, excellent speed, and often come with innovative features and robust durability, making them a top choice for various users. Many consider Lexar the best company for SSD for their diverse and dependable product line.
Q2: What is the main difference between external and internal SSDs?
A2: Internal SSDs (like the NM790) are installed inside your computer or gaming console, offering the fastest speeds directly to your system. External SSDs (like the Professional Go or ES5) connect via a USB cable, providing portable storage and easy file transfer between devices. External drives prioritize portability and versatility, while internal drives focus on maximizing system performance.
Q3: How do Lexar’s read and write speeds compare to traditional hard drives?
A3: Lexar SSDs are significantly faster than traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). While HDDs typically offer speeds around 100-200MB/s, Lexar SSDs often reach speeds of 1000MB/s up to 7400MB/s or more. This means applications load instantly, files transfer in seconds, and your overall system responsiveness improves dramatically.
Q4: Can I use Lexar SSDs with my gaming console like the PlayStation 5?
A4: Yes! Several Lexar SSDs, particularly the NM790 and the Play SSD with Heatsink, are specifically designed and tested for compatibility with the PlayStation 5. They provide ample storage expansion and meet the stringent speed requirements for playing PS5 games directly from the drive.
Q5: What do “IP65” or “IP68” ratings mean for Lexar portable SSDs?
A5: IP ratings (Ingress Protection) indicate how resistant a device is to dust and water. An IP65 rating means the device is dust-tight (6) and can withstand water jets from any direction (5). An IP68 rating would be even higher, meaning it’s dust-tight (6) and can be submerged in water (8). Lexar’s durable portable SSDs often feature these ratings, offering peace of mind for users on the go.
Q6: What is NVMe, and why is it important for SSDs?
A6: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a communication interface/protocol specifically designed for SSDs that connects directly to the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) bus of your computer. This direct connection allows for significantly faster data transfer speeds and lower latency compared to older interfaces like SATA, making NVMe SSDs the fastest type of storage available for modern computing.
Q7: Do Lexar SSDs come with a warranty?
A7: Yes, most Lexar SSDs come with a limited warranty, typically a five-year limited warranty as seen with many of the products reviewed above. This demonstrates Lexar’s confidence in the durability and longevity of their products. Always check the specific product details for warranty information.
Conclusion
After reviewing these 7 impressive drives, it’s clear that Lexar consistently delivers top-tier performance, innovative features, and robust durability across its SSD lineup. Whether you’re a professional photographer needing a rugged portable drive, a gamer craving lightning-fast load times, or simply looking to upgrade your computer’s responsiveness, Lexar has a solution that fits the bill.
Their commitment to cutting-edge technology, user-centric design (like the integrated hubs and magnetic attachments), and strong build quality truly sets them apart. So, if you’re on the hunt for reliable, high-speed storage, you can confidently say that Lexar is the best company for SSDs, offering an excellent blend of innovation, performance, and value.