Are you on the hunt for a storage upgrade that won’t break the bank but still delivers snappy performance? You’ve come to the right place! Finding the Lexar best 240gb ssd for the money can feel like a quest, especially with so many options out there. While 240GB is a sweet spot for budget-conscious users looking to boost their system’s speed, sometimes a slightly larger (or even a portable) drive might offer even better value.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into seven solid-state drives, focusing heavily on Lexar’s popular offerings, but also including a top 240GB alternative to give you a comprehensive look. Whether you’re upgrading an old laptop, giving your desktop a new lease on life, or needing fast external storage for your creative projects, we’ve got you covered. We’ll explore internal SATA SSDs perfect for main operating systems and applications, as well as high-speed portable options for creators on the go. Let’s jump in and find the best SSD for your needs and wallet!
1. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you’re looking for an incredibly affordable entry point into the world of SSDs, the Lexar 128GB NS100 is a fantastic choice. While not exactly 240GB, it’s a stellar option for breathing new life into an older machine as a boot drive, drastically improving startup times and application loading without demanding a huge investment. It’s often overlooked, but for basic computing needs or as a secondary drive, its performance-to-price ratio is hard to beat.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s
– Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– [128GB] 60TBW
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Extremely budget-friendly
– Significant speed upgrade over traditional HDDs
– Durable with no moving parts
– Easy to install in most laptops and desktops
Cons:
– Limited storage capacity for larger game libraries or extensive media
– Not the fastest SSD on the market, but great for its price tier
User Impressions: Users frequently praise this drive for its noticeable speed boost in older systems, making once-sluggish computers feel brand new. Many use it as a primary OS drive and appreciate its reliability for daily tasks.
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2. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
This is perhaps the closest you’ll get to the Lexar best 240gb ssd for the money in its internal SATA form! The 256GB Lexar NS100 hits a sweet spot, offering enough space for your operating system, essential applications, and a handful of games or personal files, all while keeping the cost remarkably low. It’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking a noticeable performance bump for their daily computing tasks without stretching their budget too thin.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s
– Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– [256GB] 120TBW
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Excellent value for capacity and performance
– Reliable and durable internal storage solution
– Simple installation process
– Good endurance rating (TBW) for its class
Cons:
– Read/write speeds are good for SATA, but not as fast as NVMe drives
– May feel limited for users with very large media collections or multiple AAA games
User Impressions: Customers love the blend of affordability and improved system responsiveness this drive offers. It’s a popular pick for budget PC builds and laptop upgrades, consistently delivering a smooth user experience.
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3. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
Stepping up in capacity, the Lexar 512GB NS100 offers even more breathing room for your digital life. If you found the 256GB a bit tight but still want that excellent Lexar value, this 512GB option is a fantastic middle ground. It provides ample space for your OS, a substantial software library, and a decent collection of games, making it a truly versatile internal SSD upgrade that still aligns with the “for the money” ethos. Plus, it boasts slightly higher read speeds!
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer 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
– [512GB] 240TBW
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Increased storage capacity for more software and files
– Improved sequential read speeds compared to smaller NS100 models
– Great price-per-GB for internal SATA SSDs
– High endurance rating for longevity
Cons:
– Still uses SATA III interface, limiting peak speeds compared to NVMe
– Not ideal for extreme performance enthusiasts who need cutting-edge speeds
User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the generous storage for the price point, finding it a perfect balance for mainstream users. Many highlight the simple plug-and-play installation and the immediate performance boost it brings to their systems.
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4. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
For the creative professional or tech-savvy individual who needs both speed and flexibility on the move, the Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD is a game-changer. This isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a mobile workstation hub. Its ultra-compact design combined with a built-in Type-C hub makes it incredibly versatile, perfect for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs blazing-fast external storage with added connectivity on location.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact so you can always keep it with you for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled, cumbersome cables (press firmly to ensure drive is completely inserted before use)
– Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease
– The portable SSD plus the hub, which has its own four USB Type-C ports, along with included adapters and cables, gives you the ultimate flexibility to customize your setup to suit the shoot
– Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording, no dropped frames, and swift backups
– Ready for travel –dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices is currently in progress
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Doubles as a portable SSD and a USB-C hub
– Exceptional read/write speeds for large file transfers and 4K recording
– Rugged, travel-ready design (IP65 rated, drop-resistant)
– Long 5-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons:
– Higher price point due to hub functionality and professional-grade features
– Wireless connector design might require a firm push to ensure connection
User Impressions: Professionals rave about its utility, especially its ability to handle ProRes footage and its robust design. The integrated hub is a huge plus, reducing clutter and offering crucial connectivity for mobile workflows.
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5. Western Digital 240GB WD Green Internal SSD Solid State…
While we’re focusing on Lexar, we couldn’t skip a direct contender for the Lexar best 240gb ssd for the money that isn’t Lexar! The Western Digital 240GB WD Green SSD is an excellent alternative if you’re strictly aiming for that 240GB capacity and prioritize energy efficiency. WD Green drives are renowned for their ultra-low power consumption, making them a fantastic choice for laptop users looking to extend battery life alongside faster performance.
Key Features:
– SLC (single-level cell) caching boosts write performance to quickly perform everyday tasks
– Shock-resistant and WD F.I.T. Lab certified for compatibility and reliability
– Ultra-low power-draw so you can use your laptop for longer periods of time
– Available in 2.5″/7mm cased and M.2 2280 form factors to accommodate most PCs
– The free, downloadable Western Digital SSD Dashboard lets you easily monitor the status of your drive. | Available for download at official Western Digital website
Pros:
– Direct 240GB capacity match
– Extremely power-efficient, ideal for laptops
– Reputable brand known for reliability
– WD Dashboard software for drive management
– Available in multiple form factors
Cons:
– Generally offers lower peak performance compared to some faster SATA SSDs
– No stated warranty in the provided features, which is unusual (though WD typically offers 3-year limited)
User Impressions: Users love the WD Green for its reliability and excellent value. It’s a go-to for many looking for a simple, effective, and energy-efficient upgrade for everyday computing tasks.
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6. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s,…
If you’re looking for an external SSD that offers both incredible speed and innovative convenience, the Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD is truly remarkable. Its MagSafe-compatible design (with an included adapter for non-MagSafe devices) allows it to magnetically attach to your smartphone, making mobile content creation and backup incredibly seamless. This drive is built for the demands of modern content creators, supporting high-resolution video recording directly to the drive.
Key Features:
– Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write to transfer files fast for a smooth workflow (Performance on Mac and other systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 may be lower)
– The drive’s MagSafe-compatible design makes it easy to attach to your compatible smartphone. An additional metal ring accessory gives any device a magnetic surface to attach to
– Supports recording in Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS, and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
– Includes free access to the Lexar App to easily auto back up your media and expand the storage of your mobile device
– Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, and is drop resistant up to 3M
– Thin and stylish, featuring a liquid silicone build that provides a comfortable grip. It also comes with a cable organizer that doubles as a lanyard
– A thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures to maintain high performance
Pros:
– Blazing-fast 2000MB/s read/write speeds
– Innovative MagSafe-compatible magnetic attachment
– Robust IP65 dust/water resistance and drop protection
– Designed for direct 4K/8K video recording from phones
– Lexar App for easy backup
Cons:
– Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for full speed, which isn’t universally supported yet
– Higher price point compared to standard external SSDs
User Impressions: Mobile videographers and photographers are thrilled with its performance and the magnetic attachment feature, calling it a game-changer for on-the-go workflows. The ruggedness and direct recording capability are also highly praised.
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7. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
For those who love the functionality of the Professional Go Portable SSD but need significantly more space, the Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD is the ultimate upgrade. It packs all the brilliant features of its 1TB sibling – the integrated hub, blazing-fast speeds, and robust, travel-ready design – into a larger capacity, making it perfect for extensive media libraries, large project files, or long shooting sessions where you can’t compromise on storage.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact so you can always keep it with you for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled, cumbersome cables (press firmly to ensure drive is completely inserted before use)
– Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease
– The portable SSD plus the hub, which has its own four USB Type-C ports, along with included adapters and cables, gives you the ultimate flexibility to customize your setup to suit the shoot
– Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording, no dropped frames, and swift backups
– Ready for travel –dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices is currently in progress
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Massive 2TB storage capacity in a portable form factor
– Integrated USB-C hub enhances versatility
– Extremely high read/write speeds for professional workflows
– Durable, water-resistant, and dust-proof construction
– Long 5-year warranty
Cons:
– Premium price tag reflective of its capacity and features
– Wireless connector may require a firm connection to be detected
User Impressions: Professionals who handle vast amounts of data, especially 4K/8K video, find this 2TB version indispensable. They appreciate the peace of mind that comes with its ruggedness and the efficiency added by the built-in hub.
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FAQ Section
Q1: What is the main benefit of upgrading to an SSD, even a 240GB one?
A1: The biggest benefit is a dramatic increase in speed! An SSD (Solid State Drive) will make your computer boot up much faster, applications will load almost instantly, and file transfers will be significantly quicker compared to a traditional hard disk drive (HDD). Even a 240GB drive is perfect for holding your operating system and essential programs.
Q2: Is a 240GB SSD enough storage for my needs?
A2: For many users, yes! A 240GB or 256GB SSD is ideal as a primary drive for your operating system (like Windows or macOS) and core applications. If you only do light computing, web browsing, and document work, it’s plenty. However, if you store a lot of large games, high-resolution photos, or videos, you might want to consider a larger capacity (like 500GB or 1TB) or use a secondary HDD for bulk storage.
Q3: What’s the difference between an internal and external SSD?
A3: An internal SSD is installed inside your computer (typically in a 2.5-inch bay or M.2 slot) and acts as your primary or secondary storage. An external SSD is a portable drive that connects via USB (or Thunderbolt) and is designed for carrying data between devices, backups, or expanding storage without opening your computer.
Q4: What does “SATA III” mean, and how does it affect performance?
A4: SATA III (Serial ATA Revision 3.0) is a standard interface for connecting storage devices to a computer’s motherboard. It has a theoretical maximum speed of 6 Gbps (gigabits per second), which translates to around 550 MB/s (megabytes per second) in real-world use. While very fast compared to HDDs, newer interfaces like NVMe (which typically uses PCIe) can offer significantly higher speeds, often in the thousands of MB/s.
Q5: Are Lexar SSDs reliable?
A5: Yes, Lexar is a well-established brand in the memory and storage industry, known for producing reliable products. Their SSDs, like the NS100 series, generally offer good performance and durability for their price point, often backed by a solid warranty period. User reviews typically reflect satisfaction with their performance and longevity.
Q6: Can I install a 2.5-inch SATA SSD in any laptop or desktop?
A6: Most modern laptops and desktops (especially those made in the last decade) will have a 2.5-inch drive bay that supports SATA SSDs. If your system currently uses a 2.5-inch HDD, you can almost certainly swap it out for a 2.5-inch SATA SSD. For desktops, you might need a 3.5-inch to 2.5-inch adapter bracket, which is often included with the SSD or sold separately for a few dollars.
Q7: What does “TBW” mean in SSD specifications?
A7: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written.” It’s an endurance rating that indicates how much data can be written to the SSD over its lifetime before it’s expected to start having issues. A higher TBW means the drive is rated to last longer under heavy write workloads. For average users, even lower TBW ratings like 60TBW (for a 128GB drive) are more than sufficient for many years of typical use.