Is your computer feeling sluggish? Are you constantly running out of space for your games, videos, or crucial work files? It sounds like you’re in the market for a storage upgrade, and if you’re looking for a reliable and high-performance Lexar 1TB SSD for sale at Best Buy, you’ve come to the right place. Lexar is renowned for its high-quality memory solutions, and their 1TB SSDs offer a fantastic blend of speed, durability, and ample storage for all your digital needs.
Solid State Drives (SSDs) are a game-changer compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). They don’t have moving parts, which means they’re faster, more durable, and consume less power. A 1TB capacity is the sweet spot for many users, offering plenty of room for an operating system, a robust game library, professional software, and tons of media. Best Buy, as a leading electronics retailer, often features excellent deals on these essential upgrades.
Let’s dive into the best Lexar 1TB SSDs you can currently find, helping you pick the perfect one for your setup.
Why Choose a Lexar 1TB SSD?
Lexar has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable storage solutions that cater to various users, from casual computer users to demanding content creators and hardcore gamers. A 1TB Lexar SSD provides:
- Blazing Speeds: Experience significantly faster boot times, application loading, and file transfers compared to traditional HDDs.
- Robust Durability: Without moving parts, SSDs are more resistant to drops and bumps, making them ideal for laptops and portable use.
- Energy Efficiency: They consume less power, which can translate to longer battery life for laptops and cooler operation for desktops.
- Ample Storage: 1TB is a generous amount of space for most users, allowing you to store a massive amount of data without worry.
How We Chose These Top Lexar 1TB SSDs
To bring you this comprehensive guide, we’ve carefully selected Lexar’s best 1TB SSD offerings, focusing on their unique features, performance metrics, compatibility, and overall value. We considered options for various use cases, including internal drives for desktops and laptops, and external drives for portable storage and gaming consoles.
The 7 Best Lexar 1TB SSDs Available
Here’s our rundown of the top Lexar 1TB SSDs for sale at Best Buy right now, complete with their key features, pros, cons, and user impressions.
1. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
This Lexar ES3 external SSD is a fantastic pick if you need blazing-fast, portable storage that’s also incredibly slim and stylish. It’s designed for users who are always on the go and need to transfer large files quickly between various devices. Its wide compatibility means it’s ready for almost anything you throw at it, from your iPhone 15 to your PS5.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write)
- Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5
- Ultra-portable Design: Thin (10.5mm), lightweight (42g) metal build, smaller than a card
- Data Safety: Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for quick file transfers
- Highly portable and durable metal casing
- Broad device compatibility, including new iPhones and gaming consoles
- Built-in security features with AES encryption
- Plug-and-play simplicity
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Cons:
- Performance may be lower if your device doesn’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Not compatible with iPhone 14 and older models
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User Impressions: Users love how incredibly compact and lightweight this drive is, making it a true pocket-sized powerhouse. The fast transfer speeds are a consistent highlight, perfect for multimedia professionals and gamers alike. The encryption software is also a big plus for security-conscious individuals.
2. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
For the ultimate content creator or professional who needs an all-in-one portable solution, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a standout. It’s not just a storage device; it’s a mobile workstation, offering built-in USB-C ports to expand your connectivity. Capture stunning Apple ProRes footage directly and keep everything organized and secure, even in challenging environments.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for full insertion)
- Capture Apple ProRes footage with ease
- Integrated 4x USB Type-C hub with included adapters and cables
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write for 4K recording
- Rugged: IP65 dust-proof & water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Doubles as a portable SSD and a USB-C hub, enhancing productivity
- Excellent for professional video recording (Apple ProRes, 4K)
- Highly durable and resistant to environmental elements
- Generous five-year warranty
- Wireless Type-C connector is innovative and convenient
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Cons:
- Compatibility with iPhone 17 series still in progress (though supports current demanding uses)
- May be overkill for users who only need basic storage
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User Impressions: Professionals rave about the integrated hub and its ability to handle demanding video workflows. The rugged design gives peace of mind, and the speeds are consistently praised for preventing dropped frames during high-res recording. It’s seen as a powerful tool for on-location shoots.
3. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
Gamers and power users, listen up! The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is built for extreme performance. This internal NVMe M.2 SSD takes full advantage of PCIe Gen4 technology, delivering incredible speeds that are twice as fast as Gen 3 SSDs. The integrated heatsink ensures your drive stays cool under pressure, preventing throttling during intense gaming sessions or heavy workloads. It’s also PlayStation 5 compatible, making it a perfect upgrade for console gamers.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management and sustained performance
- 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
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Top-tier speeds perfect for gaming, video editing, and demanding applications
- Heatsink prevents overheating and performance degradation
- Energy-efficient operation
- Full PlayStation 5 compatibility
- Long-term reliability with a five-year warranty
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Cons:
- Requires an M.2 slot with PCIe Gen4 support
- Heatsink might not fit in all cramped laptop or desktop builds
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently highlight the incredible loading times and smooth gameplay this SSD provides. Users also appreciate the integrated heatsink, noting that it keeps their systems cool even during extended use. It’s often recommended for PS5 owners looking to expand their storage without compromising on speed.
4. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you need the blistering speed of the NM790 but perhaps don’t have space for a heatsink or prefer a more streamlined internal solution, this version of the Lexar NM790 is your answer. It offers the same incredible PCIe Gen4 performance, making it an ideal internal SSD for upgrading laptops or desktops where space might be a premium, all while delivering top-tier speeds for hardcore gamers and creative professionals.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 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, perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Phenomenal speeds for rapid system and application responsiveness
- Energy-efficient, great for laptop battery life
- Compact, single-sided design fits easily into most M.2 slots, especially in laptops
- Full PlayStation 5 compatibility
- Robust performance for demanding tasks
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Cons:
- Lacks an integrated heatsink, so ensure your system has adequate cooling
- Requires an M.2 slot with PCIe Gen4 support to reach full potential
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User Impressions: Users are thrilled with the speed boost this drive provides to their systems, noting quick boot times and snappy application launches. Laptop owners particularly appreciate its single-sided design, which makes installation a breeze. It’s considered an excellent internal upgrade for both productivity and gaming.
5. Lexar 1TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
Looking for an affordable yet effective way to breathe new life into an older laptop or desktop? The Lexar NS100 2.5 Inch SATA III SSD is your go-to. This internal drive offers a substantial upgrade over traditional hard drives, providing faster startups, quicker data transfers, and snappier application loads. It’s a cost-effective solution for anyone still running an HDD and wanting a noticeable performance boost without breaking the bank.
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Key Features:
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
- Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
- More reliable and faster than traditional hard drives
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- [1TB] 480TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Significant performance improvement over HDDs
- Cost-effective upgrade solution
- Durable due to no moving parts, enhancing system longevity
- Standard 2.5-inch form factor ensures wide compatibility
- Ideal for older systems with SATA III interfaces
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Cons:
- SATA III speeds are significantly slower than NVMe PCIe Gen4 drives
- Three-year warranty is shorter than other Lexar premium SSDs
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User Impressions: Customers frequently mention how easy it is to install this SSD and how much faster their old computers become. It’s highly praised for being a budget-friendly way to extend the life of existing systems, making daily tasks much more enjoyable. It’s often recommended for those upgrading older systems.
6. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The Lexar ES5 Magnetic External SSD is truly innovative, especially for mobile content creators. With its MagSafe-compatible design, it securely attaches to your compatible smartphone (and other devices with the included metal ring), transforming your phone into a professional recording studio. Experience incredible speeds for demanding video formats like Apple ProRes 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS, all while benefiting from its rugged, dust and water-resistant build.
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Key Features:
- Extreme speeds: up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to smartphones; includes metal ring for other devices
- Supports recording Apple ProRes 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
- Free access to Lexar App for auto media backup and mobile storage expansion
- Rated IP65 for dust & water resistance, drop resistant up to 3M
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with comfortable grip and cable organizer/lanyard
- Thermal control design for sustained high performance
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Pros:
- Groundbreaking magnetic attachment for mobile devices
- Exceptional speeds ideal for high-resolution video recording
- Rugged and durable for outdoor and on-location use
- Handy Lexar App for mobile device integration and backup
- Effective thermal management for consistent performance
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Cons:
- Performance may be lower if your device doesn’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Magnetic feature is specific to compatible devices (or requires the accessory ring)
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User Impressions: This SSD is a huge hit with smartphone videographers and content creators due to its magnetic attachment and professional video recording capabilities. Users love the convenience of hands-free recording and the incredibly fast transfer speeds. Its robust build and sleek design are also frequently praised.
7. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible with iPhone 15 Pro
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD combines stunning speed with an ultra-sleek, durable design. Delivering up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write, it’s a powerhouse for transferring massive files quickly. Its compatibility with the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max for direct Apple ProRes recording makes it a must-have for mobile videographers. Thin enough to slip into any pocket, and robust enough for daily use, the SL500 is a fantastic choice for fast, secure, and portable storage.
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Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: up to 2000MB/s read, 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS) with iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max
- Wide compatibility: mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5
- Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures and sustained performance
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Exceptional data transfer speeds for efficient workflows
- Ultra-portable and durable metal construction
- Seamless integration with iPhone 15 Pro/Max for direct video recording
- Broad compatibility across various platforms and devices
- Effective thermal management ensures consistent high performance
- Enhanced data security with AES encryption
- Long-lasting reliability with a five-year warranty
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Cons:
- Performance may be lower if your device doesn’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- May require specific formatting for optimal use with certain consoles
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User Impressions: Users absolutely love the speed and portability of the SL500. Its sleek metal design feels premium, and the ability to record ProRes directly from an iPhone 15 Pro is a game-changer for many. The encryption software and thermal control are also highly appreciated for both performance and security.
Factors to Consider When Buying Your Lexar 1TB SSD
When you’re looking for a Lexar 1TB SSD for sale at Best Buy, here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best fit for your needs:
- Internal vs. External: Do you need to upgrade your computer’s primary storage (internal) or carry files between devices (external)? Internal NVMe drives offer the fastest speeds for your OS and applications, while external drives provide unparalleled portability.
- Interface Type (NVMe, SATA, USB):
- NVMe (PCIe Gen4): Offers the fastest speeds, ideal for gaming, 4K+ video editing, and heavy workloads. Requires a compatible M.2 slot.
- SATA III: A great, affordable upgrade for older systems still using traditional hard drives. Slower than NVMe but still much faster than HDDs.
- USB 3.2 Gen 2/2×2: High-speed external connectivity, suitable for portable drives and console storage. Ensure your device supports the highest Gen for optimal performance.
- Usage Scenario: Are you a gamer, a photographer, a videographer, or just a casual user? Your primary use will dictate the speed and specific features (like ProRes recording or a built-in hub) you’ll need.
- Durability and Features: Look for features like IP ratings for water/dust resistance, drop protection, or data encryption if you need to protect your drive and its contents.
- Compatibility: Always double-check that the SSD is compatible with your specific devices, whether it’s your PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, or smartphone.
FAQ Section
Q1: What’s the main difference between an internal and external Lexar 1TB SSD?
A1: An internal SSD is installed inside your computer (like an M.2 NVMe drive or a 2.5-inch SATA drive) and typically serves as your primary storage for the operating system and applications. An external SSD is a portable drive that connects via USB, ideal for carrying files, backing up data, or expanding storage for consoles and mobile devices.
Q2: Why should I choose a 1TB SSD over a larger HDD?
A2: A 1TB SSD offers significantly faster boot times, application loading, and file transfer speeds compared to even much larger HDDs. SSDs are also more durable, quieter, and more energy-efficient because they have no moving parts. While HDDs might offer more capacity for less money, the performance gain with an SSD is undeniable.
Q3: Can a Lexar 1TB NVMe SSD improve my gaming performance?
A3: Absolutely! An NVMe SSD, especially a PCIe Gen4 one, will drastically reduce game loading times and asset streaming, leading to a smoother gaming experience. While it won’t directly improve frame rates, it will make getting into and out of games much faster and eliminate stuttering caused by slow storage.
Q4: Are Lexar external SSDs compatible with my gaming console (PS5/Xbox Series X|S)?
A4: Many Lexar external SSDs, including several on our list, are compatible with PS5 and Xbox Series X|S for storing and playing games. For PS5, you can typically store PS5 games on an external drive but must transfer them to the internal NVMe SSD to play them. PS4 games can often be played directly from an external drive. Xbox Series X|S has specific external storage requirements for playing optimized games, but any external drive can store them. Always check the specific drive’s compatibility.
Q5: What is USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, and why is it important for external SSDs?
A5: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 is a USB standard that offers data transfer speeds of up to 20Gbps (Gigabits per second), or approximately 2000MB/s (Megabytes per second). For external SSDs, this means incredibly fast file transfers, which is crucial for handling large video files, game libraries, or professional projects. To get these speeds, both your SSD and your computer’s USB port must support Gen 2×2.
Q6: What does ‘256-bit AES encryption’ mean for Lexar SSDs?
A6: 256-bit AES encryption (Advanced Encryption Standard) is a highly secure method of encrypting data. When a Lexar SSD includes this feature, it means your stored files are protected with a strong cryptographic key, making it extremely difficult for unauthorized individuals to access your data even if they get hold of the physical drive. It adds a crucial layer of security, especially for sensitive information.
Q7: How important is a heatsink for an NVMe SSD?
A7: For high-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs, a heatsink can be very important, especially under sustained heavy workloads (like gaming, video editing, or large file transfers). These drives can generate significant heat, and without adequate cooling, they might “throttle” their performance to prevent overheating. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, ensuring the SSD maintains its top speeds consistently.
Q8: Can I use a Lexar 1TB SSD with my iPhone 15?
A8: Yes! Several Lexar external SSDs, like the ES3, ES5, and SL500, are specifically designed to be compatible with the iPhone 15 series. This allows you to offload photos and videos, or even record high-resolution footage (like Apple ProRes) directly to the external SSD, significantly expanding your phone’s storage and creative capabilities.
Conclusion
Upgrading to a Lexar 1TB SSD is one of the smartest moves you can make for your computer or console. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a creative professional, or just someone looking to speed up their daily tasks, a Lexar 1TB SSD from Best Buy offers fantastic value in terms of speed, durability, and storage capacity.
From the lightning-fast internal NM790 series for PC enthusiasts and PS5 owners to the incredibly versatile and rugged external drives like the Professional Go and magnetic ES5, Lexar has an option tailored for virtually every need. Take advantage of Best Buy’s selection and step into a world of faster load times, smoother workflows, and reliable data storage. Happy computing!