In today’s fast-paced digital world, whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a creative professional, or just someone who needs reliable, speedy storage, a solid-state drive (SSD) is an absolute must-have. When it comes to finding the perfect balance of performance, durability, and value, Lexar stands out as a brand delivering high-quality storage solutions. But with so many options available, how do you pinpoint the Lexar best 1tb ssd for the price that truly fits your needs?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We’ve delved into Lexar’s extensive lineup of 1TB SSDs, meticulously examining their features, performance, and what makes each one unique. Our goal is to help you find an excellent storage upgrade that won’t break the bank.
Let’s dive into our top picks for the Lexar best 1tb ssd for the price, covering everything from blazing-fast internal NVMe drives to versatile portable powerhouses.
1. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a mobile workstation in your pocket! The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub takes versatility to the next level, making it an absolute game-changer for content creators and professionals on the move. Its ultra-compact design ensures you can capture and transfer brilliant Apple ProRes footage anytime, anywhere, without being bogged down by multiple peripherals. The integrated hub with four Type-C ports means you can customize your setup on the fly, transforming your creative workflow.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector with integrated hub
– Supports Apple ProRes footage recording
– Four USB Type-C ports with included adapters and cables
– Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write
– IP65 dust-proof, water-resistant, and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Exceptional versatility with integrated Type-C hub
– High-speed data transfer ideal for 4K video editing
– Rugged, durable design for outdoor and travel use
– Excellent compatibility for creative professionals
– Generous five-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons:
– May be slightly bulkier than a standard portable SSD due to the hub
– Wireless connector requires firm insertion for optimal performance
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise its innovative hub design, noting how it simplifies their on-the-go workflow by reducing cable clutter. Many content creators specifically highlight its capability for seamless 4K ProRes recording, calling it an invaluable tool for professional shoots outside the studio. Its robust build quality also instills confidence among those who travel frequently.
2. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD
Sleek, slim, and seriously fast, the Lexar ES3 External SSD is your perfect companion for taking important files on the go. Designed to be smaller than a credit card and weighing next to nothing, this drive easily slips into any pocket, offering high-speed data transfer wherever you are. Whether you’re backing up crucial documents, transferring large media files, or expanding your gaming console’s storage, the ES3 delivers swift performance and peace of mind with its included 256-bit AES encryption software.
Key Features:
– High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write)
– Ultra-portable: thin, stylish, durable metal design, weighs 42g, 10.5mm thick
– Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4/PS5
– Data Safety: Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software
– Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
Pros:
– Extremely compact and lightweight for ultimate portability
– Robust data encryption for enhanced security
– Excellent compatibility across various devices
– Fast transfer speeds for everyday tasks and large files
– Durable metal casing provides good protection
Cons:
– Performance may be limited on systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2
– Not supported on iPhone 14 and older models
User Impressions:
Customers love the ES3’s incredibly compact size and lightweight design, often commenting on how easy it is to carry around. The swift transfer speeds are a consistent highlight, making quick backups and file transfers a breeze. Many users also appreciate the added security of the DataShield encryption, ensuring their sensitive data remains protected.
3. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
For gamers and power users demanding top-tier performance, look no further than the Lexar NM790 SSD with Heatsink. This internal NVMe M.2 drive harnesses the full power of PCIe Gen4, delivering astonishing read speeds up to 7400MB/s. What truly sets it apart is the integrated heatsink, ensuring your system stays cool under pressure, preventing thermal throttling during intense gaming sessions or heavy workloads. It’s also PlayStation 5 compatible, making it an ideal upgrade for console enthusiasts.
Key Features:
– Exceptional PCIe Gen4 performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management and sustained performance
– 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
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds for rapid boot times, game loading, and application launches
– Heatsink prevents overheating and maintains consistent performance
– Energy-efficient design helps with laptop battery life (if applicable)
– Excellent choice for PS5 storage expansion
– Long-term reliability with a five-year warranty
Cons:
– Requires an M.2 slot and PCIe Gen4 support for full performance
– Heatsink might be too tall for some ultra-compact PC builds
User Impressions:
Gamers consistently rave about the NM790 with Heatsink, particularly praising its dramatic improvement in game load times and overall system responsiveness. PS5 owners find it an indispensable upgrade, noting how easily it installs and instantly boosts their console’s storage and performance. The effective heatsink is a frequently mentioned positive, ensuring no performance dips even during marathon gaming sessions.
4. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
The Lexar ES5 Magnetic External SSD is designed for creators who thrive on seamless mobile workflows. With blistering speeds up to 2000MB/s and a unique MagSafe-compatible design, this SSD literally snaps onto your compatible smartphone, transforming it into a professional recording studio. Whether you’re shooting Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS or Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS, the ES5 handles it all with ease. Plus, its robust IP65 rating and 3-meter drop resistance mean it can withstand the rigors of any shoot.
Key Features:
– Extremely fast: up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
– MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to smartphones (metal ring accessory included)
– Supports Apple ProRes 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS recording
– Free access to Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion
– IP65 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 temperatures
Pros:
– Unmatched speed for demanding video recording and editing tasks
– Innovative magnetic attachment streamlines mobile workflows
– Exceptionally durable with IP65 rating and high drop resistance
– Dedicated app for convenient backups and storage management
– Effective thermal control prevents performance degradation
Cons:
– Full speeds require USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, which isn’t universally supported
– Magnetic attachment might not appeal to all users or be compatible with all cases
User Impressions:
Mobile videographers and photographers are particularly thrilled with the ES5, highlighting its ability to directly record high-resolution footage from their phones without a hitch. The magnetic attachment is often cited as a brilliant convenience feature, making quick transfers and backups effortless. Its ruggedness also gives users peace of mind when working in challenging environments.
5. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re building a high-performance PC or upgrading a compatible laptop, the Lexar NM790 SSD without a heatsink offers incredible PCIe Gen4 speeds in a compact form factor. This drive delivers the same astounding 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write speeds as its heatsink-equipped sibling, but its single-sided NVMe design makes it perfect for slim laptops where space is at a premium. It’s a powerhouse for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators who need raw speed for demanding applications and fast load times.
Key Features:
– Exceptional PCIe Gen4 performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer speeds 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:
– Phenomenal speeds for rapid system responsiveness and quick file access
– Energy-efficient design extends battery life in laptops
– Single-sided form factor ensures compatibility with a wider range of devices
– Excellent choice for high-performance PC builds and PS5 expansion
– Backed by a strong five-year warranty
Cons:
– No integrated heatsink, so users might need to provide their own cooling solution
– Requires an M.2 slot and PCIe Gen4 support for maximum performance
User Impressions:
Users upgrading their gaming PCs or high-end laptops frequently praise the NM790 for its transformative speed, significantly cutting down on boot times and application loading. Many appreciate its single-sided design, confirming it fits perfectly into various devices where other SSDs might be too bulky. PS5 users also find it a hassle-free and effective storage expansion.
6. Lexar 1TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
Breathing new life into an older laptop or desktop doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, and the Lexar NS100 SSD is here to prove it. This 2.5-inch SATA III internal SSD is a fantastic, budget-friendly option for upgrading traditional hard drives. With sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s, it offers a significant boost in startup times, data transfers, and application loads compared to a conventional HDD. Plus, its shock and vibration resistance means your data is safer without any moving parts.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop 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
– 480TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Cost-effective way to drastically improve older system performance
– Significantly faster and more reliable than traditional HDDs
– Enhanced durability due to solid-state design
– Easy installation into standard 2.5-inch drive bays
– Good endurance rating for typical use
Cons:
– Slower than NVMe SSDs (due to SATA III interface limitations)
– Three-year warranty is shorter than some other Lexar models
User Impressions:
Customers who’ve upgraded their aging computers with the NS100 consistently report a “night and day” difference in performance, highlighting faster boot-ups and snappier application responses. Many appreciate its affordability, making it an accessible upgrade for those on a tighter budget looking for a reliable speed boost. It’s often recommended for revitalizing older systems.
7. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is a perfect blend of high performance and elegant portability. Boasting incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds of up to 2000MB/s read, this drive lets you transfer massive files in a flash, making your workflow incredibly efficient. Its ultra-thin, lightweight, and durable metal design makes it easy to carry, while advanced thermal control ensures optimal performance even during demanding tasks like recording Apple ProRes 4K 60FPS directly from your iPhone 15 Pro. This drive is a true workhorse for mobile professionals and creative enthusiasts.
Key Features:
– Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: up to 2000MB/s read, 1800MB/s write
– Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design (3.3” x 2.1” x 0.3”; 0.095 lbs.)
– Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
– Wide compatibility: mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4/PS5
– Unique Thermal Control Design for sustained high 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
Pros:
– Extremely fast for large file transfers and direct video recording
– Premium, highly portable design ideal for on-the-go use
– Excellent direct recording capabilities for iPhone 15 Pro/Max
– Robust compatibility across a wide range of devices
– Advanced thermal management prevents performance drops
– Enhanced data security with AES encryption
– Long five-year warranty for extended reliability
Cons:
– Full speeds require USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, which might not be supported by all systems
– Slightly higher price point due to premium features and speed
User Impressions:
The SL500 consistently earns high marks for its blistering speed and elegant, pocket-friendly design. iPhone 15 Pro users particularly appreciate its seamless ability to record ProRes footage directly, transforming their mobile device into a serious production tool. The thermal control and encryption features are also frequently lauded, ensuring both performance and security.
Finding Your Perfect Lexar 1TB SSD
Choosing the Lexar best 1tb ssd for the price ultimately comes down to your specific needs. Do you prioritize raw internal speed for gaming, rugged portability for outdoor shoots, or an affordable upgrade for an older system? Lexar offers a diverse range of 1TB SSDs that cater to every user, ensuring you get excellent value for your investment in high-performance digital storage. We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision and enjoy lightning-fast performance!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What makes Lexar SSDs a good choice for storage?
A1: Lexar is a reputable brand known for producing reliable and high-performance memory and storage solutions. Their SSDs offer a great balance of speed, durability, and value, often including features like advanced thermal management, data encryption, and robust warranties. They cater to a wide range of users, from casual users to professional content creators and gamers.
Q2: What’s the main difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs?
A2: The core difference lies in their interface and speed. SATA SSDs (like the Lexar NS100) use the older SATA III interface, offering speeds up to around 550MB/s. NVMe SSDs (like the Lexar NM790) utilize the PCIe interface, providing significantly faster speeds, often reaching thousands of MB/s, thanks to their direct connection to the CPU. NVMe is ideal for demanding tasks, while SATA is a cost-effective upgrade for older systems.
Q3: Is 1TB enough storage for gaming and content creation?
A3: For many users, 1TB offers a good balance. For gamers, it can hold several large AAA titles along with your operating system and essential applications. For content creators, 1TB is a decent starting point for project files and footage, especially if you offload completed projects to larger archival storage. However, very active creators or those working with immense 8K footage might find themselves needing more or using external drives frequently.
Q4: How do I choose between an internal and external Lexar SSD?
A4: Internal SSDs (like the NM790 and NS100) are installed directly inside your computer, offering the fastest possible speeds for your OS and applications. They’re great for upgrading laptops or building new PCs. External SSDs (like the ES3, ES5, SL500, and Professional Go) are portable, connecting via USB. They’re ideal for expanding storage on multiple devices, backing up files on the go, or direct recording from cameras/phones. Your primary use case will dictate which is best.
Q5: What does PCIe Gen4 mean for SSD performance?
A5: PCIe Gen4 refers to the fourth generation of the Peripheral Component Interconnect Express interface. It doubles the bandwidth of PCIe Gen3, allowing NVMe SSDs to achieve significantly higher read and write speeds (e.g., up to 7400MB/s for the NM790). This translates to much faster boot times, quicker game loading, and nearly instantaneous file transfers, especially beneficial for high-resolution video editing and data-intensive applications.
Q6: What is AES encryption, and why is it important for an SSD?
A6: AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) encryption, specifically 256-bit AES as seen in Lexar’s DataShield software, is a robust method of scrambling your data to protect it from unauthorized access. If your external SSD is lost or stolen, this encryption ensures that your personal and sensitive files remain secure and unreadable to anyone without the correct password or key. It’s a crucial security feature for portable drives.
Q7: Are Lexar SSDs compatible with PlayStation 5?
A7: Yes, several Lexar NVMe SSDs, including both versions of the Lexar NM790, are explicitly compatible with the PlayStation 5. They meet or exceed Sony’s recommended specifications for speed and often have a suitable form factor, including an optional heatsink, to ensure optimal performance and cooling within the PS5’s expansion slot.
Q8: What does TBW (Terabytes Written) mean for an SSD?
A8: TBW is an endurance rating that indicates how many terabytes of data can be written to the SSD over its lifespan before it might start to degrade. For example, a 1000TBW rating means you can write 1000 terabytes of data to the drive. Higher TBW values generally indicate greater durability and a longer expected lifespan for the SSD, especially important for users with heavy write workloads like video editing or constant data transfers.