Is your HP laptop feeling a bit sluggish? Running out of space for all your photos, games, or work files? You’re not alone! Upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the best ways to breathe new life into an older machine or supercharge a new one. Forget those slow, clunky hard disk drives (HDDs); SSDs offer lightning-fast boot times, quicker application loading, and overall snappier performance.
While you might be specifically searching for the Lexar best and biggest and cheapest SSD drive for HP laptop, the good news is there are plenty of fantastic options out there. Lexar is a well-respected brand, known for reliable storage solutions, and we’ve rounded up some of their top contenders. We’ve also included a couple of other highly-rated SSDs that offer exceptional value and performance for your HP laptop, just in case you want to explore all the best possible upgrades.
Let’s dive into our top picks to help you find the perfect blend of speed, capacity, and affordability for your HP laptop!
Why Upgrade to an SSD for Your HP Laptop?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly touch on why an SSD is a game-changer for your HP laptop:
- Blazing Speed: SSDs don’t have moving parts, meaning data can be accessed almost instantly. This translates to faster boot-ups, quicker file transfers, and snappier application performance.
- Enhanced Durability: Without delicate moving parts, SSDs are far more resistant to drops and bumps, making them ideal for portable devices like laptops.
- Energy Efficiency: SSDs consume less power than traditional HDDs, which can lead to slightly better battery life for your HP laptop.
- Silent Operation: No moving parts means no noise! Enjoy a quieter computing experience.
Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a gamer, a solid-state drive upgrade is a smart investment that pays off daily. Now, let’s look at some of the best choices available.
Our Top 7 SSD Picks for Your HP Laptop
Here are our detailed reviews of 7 excellent SSD options, keeping in mind users looking for the Lexar best and biggest and cheapest SSD drive for HP laptop and other high-value alternatives.
1. HP EX900 Plus 1TB SSD Hard Drive
This HP-branded SSD is a fantastic internal option if you’re looking to stick with the manufacturer’s ecosystem or simply want a reliable drive. It offers a generous 1TB of storage, providing ample space for your operating system, programs, and a good chunk of your digital library. Its internal form factor makes it a seamless upgrade for many HP laptop models that support M.2 NVMe SSDs, promising a significant performance boost over traditional HDDs.
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Key Features:
- Brand Hard Drive: HP
- Capacity: 1TB
- Colour: Multi-coloured (packaging, not the drive itself)
- Dimensions: 14.5 x 10 x 2 cm (likely retail packaging)
- Reference: S0237400
- Offers quality at a competitive price.
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Pros:
- Good capacity for a primary drive.
- HP branding might offer peace of mind for HP laptop users.
- Excellent value for its performance class.
- Significant speed upgrade for laptops currently running on HDDs.
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Cons:
- Specific speed specifications aren’t detailed in the provided info (but typically NVMe drives are very fast).
- May not be compatible with older HP laptops that only support SATA.
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User Impressions: Customers often praise this drive for its noticeable speed improvements and straightforward installation process in compatible HP laptops. It’s seen as a reliable and cost-effective upgrade.
2. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read, Storage…
If you need a massive amount of portable storage that’s also incredibly fast, the Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD is a powerhouse. This isn’t an internal drive, but it’s perfect for expanding your HP laptop’s storage without opening it up. Its blazing-fast read/write speeds make it ideal for transferring large video files, backing up entire systems, or running applications directly from the drive. Plus, its rugged design means it can handle life on the go.
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Key Features:
- Speed: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (9.5X faster than HDDs).
- Storage: 2TB capacity for super-fast backups and instant storage expansion.
- Heat Dissipation: Built-in, double-layer graphite sheets for efficient cooling.
- Durability: Drop-resistant up to 2 meters.
- Connectivity: Plug-and-play with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable for PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone.
- Security: Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and Lexar Recovery Tool.
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Pros:
- Massive 2TB storage in a portable format.
- Extremely high transfer speeds for demanding tasks.
- Excellent durability and heat management.
- Versatile compatibility with various devices.
- Added security features for data protection.
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Cons:
- External drive, so it doesn’t improve internal system boot times.
- Might be overkill for users who only need internal storage.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the ES3’s incredible speed and robust build quality. It’s a favorite among content creators and professionals who need fast, reliable, and portable storage that can withstand daily use.
3. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
For those looking for an ultra-affordable internal upgrade, especially if your HP laptop still uses a traditional HDD or has limited budget, the Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD is a solid choice. While 128GB might not be “biggest,” it’s enough to house your operating system and essential applications, providing an immediate and significant boost to boot times and overall responsiveness. It’s also incredibly reliable thanks to its shock and vibration resistance.
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Key Features:
- Form Factor: 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD.
- Capacity: 128GB.
- Speed: Sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s.
- Durability: Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts.
- Lifespan: 60TBW (Terabytes Written).
- Warranty: Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent entry-level price point, making it one of the Lexar cheapest SSD drives for HP laptop.
- Noticeable performance improvement over HDDs for OS and core apps.
- Enhanced reliability and durability.
- Easy upgrade for most laptops and desktops.
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Cons:
- Limited capacity (128GB) might require careful file management or a secondary storage solution.
- SATA III speeds are slower than NVMe, but still vastly superior to HDDs.
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User Impressions: Customers frequently recommend this drive for older laptops or as a dedicated boot drive due to its affordability and the dramatic speed improvement it provides for everyday tasks.
4. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you liked the sound of the NS100 but need more storage, the Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD is likely the sweet spot for many users. This drive hits a great balance between capacity, performance, and price, making it a strong contender for the Lexar best and biggest and cheapest SSD drive for HP laptop for internal upgrades. It offers ample room for your OS, several large applications, and a good collection of documents and media, all while delivering quick SATA III speeds.
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Key Features:
- Form Factor: 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD.
- Capacity: 512GB.
- Speed: Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s.
- Durability: Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts.
- Lifespan: 240TBW (Terabytes Written).
- Warranty: Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Great balance of capacity and affordability.
- Solid performance boost for general computing.
- Highly reliable and durable construction.
- Easy installation for 2.5-inch drive bays.
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Cons:
- Still limited to SATA III speeds, not as fast as NVMe.
- Might still feel restrictive for users with massive game libraries or high-res video files.
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User Impressions: This 512GB model is a consistent crowd-pleaser, praised for its straightforward installation and the significant performance upgrade it offers for a very reasonable price. Many find it to be the perfect size for a primary drive.
5. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
Here’s an innovative option from Lexar for professionals and creators on the move. The Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD isn’t just a high-speed external drive; it’s also a hub! This ultra-compact device allows for incredibly fast 4K recording and swift backups with its 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds. Its built-in hub functionality, along with its rugged IP65 rating, makes it a truly versatile and durable companion for any HP laptop user needing robust portable storage and connectivity.
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Key Features:
- Capacity: 1TB.
- Speed: Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Connectivity: Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector with four USB Type-C ports.
- Durability: Dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Special Use: Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage, seamless 4K recording.
- Warranty: Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Combines high-speed external storage with a USB hub for ultimate flexibility.
- Exceptional durability for outdoor and professional use.
- Excellent for demanding tasks like 4K video recording.
- Compact and truly portable design.
- Longer five-year warranty.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to its advanced features and hub functionality.
- External drive, not an internal upgrade.
- Compatibility with some devices (like iPhone 17 Series) is still being tested.
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User Impressions: This Lexar Professional Go SSD is a hit with photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs a robust, fast, and multi-functional external storage solution. Its hub feature is particularly lauded for streamlining mobile workflows.
6. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
Sitting comfortably between the 128GB and 512GB models, the Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD offers a sweet spot for those seeking an economical yet practical internal upgrade. It’s perfect if you need more than just an OS drive but don’t require immense storage. This drive will significantly speed up your HP laptop’s daily operations, making it feel much more responsive and enjoyable to use, all while maintaining the excellent reliability Lexar is known for.
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Key Features:
- Form Factor: 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD.
- Capacity: 256GB.
- Speed: Sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s.
- Durability: Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts.
- Lifespan: 120TBW (Terabytes Written).
- Warranty: Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Great value and improved capacity over the 128GB model.
- Robust and reliable performance for everyday tasks.
- Easy installation into compatible HP laptops.
- Cost-effective way to get an SSD into your system.
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Cons:
- 256GB might still be limiting for users with many large games or media files.
- SATA III speeds are not as cutting-edge as NVMe.
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User Impressions: Users find the 256GB NS100 to be an ideal upgrade for older laptops, providing a noticeable performance bump without breaking the bank. It’s often recommended for boosting productivity and general system responsiveness.
7. Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid…
While not a Lexar product, the Samsung 870 EVO is a legendary drive in the SSD world and an excellent alternative for your HP laptop if you’re prioritizing top-tier performance and reliability. It’s often considered the “SSD all-star” for a reason, offering maximum SATA interface speeds, exceptional endurance, and broad compatibility. If you’re looking for one of the best 2.5-inch SATA SSDs available, this 1TB option is hard to beat for heavy workloads and professional use.
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Key Features:
- Capacity: 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive.
- Performance: Max SATA interface limits at 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
- Reliability: Up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty, designed for heavy workloads.
- Compatibility: Extensively tested for major host systems and applications.
- Ease of Use: Simple plug-and-play installation, includes Samsung Magician software for drive management.
- Security: AES 256-bit Encryption, TCG/Opal, IEEE1667.
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Pros:
- Industry-leading performance and reliability from Samsung.
- Large 1TB capacity for extensive storage needs.
- Excellent endurance and a long 5-year warranty.
- User-friendly software for optimal drive health and performance.
- Wide compatibility with most systems supporting 2.5-inch SATA drives.
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Cons:
- Generally at a higher price point than the Lexar NS100 series.
- Still confined to SATA III speeds, not NVMe.
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User Impressions: The Samsung 870 EVO consistently receives stellar reviews, with users highlighting its unwavering reliability, consistent performance, and the peace of mind that comes with Samsung’s reputation. It’s a go-to choice for serious users and professionals.
Making Your Choice: The Best SSD for Your HP Laptop
When selecting the perfect SSD, consider a few things:
- Internal vs. External: Do you want to replace your laptop’s main drive for a performance boost (internal), or do you need extra space for files you carry around (external)?
- Capacity: How much storage do you actually need? 256GB is good for basic use, 512GB-1TB is ideal for most users, and 2TB+ is for power users with massive media libraries.
- Speed (SATA vs. NVMe vs. USB): SATA III (up to ~550MB/s) is great for internal upgrades from HDDs. NVMe (found in the HP EX900 Plus) is even faster, but requires an M.2 slot. External drives (like Lexar’s portable options) offer high speeds via USB-C.
- Budget: SSDs range in price significantly, so balance your needs with what you’re willing to spend. Often, the Lexar best and biggest and cheapest SSD drive for HP laptop will be a SATA III internal drive.
Any of these SSDs will provide a substantial upgrade over a traditional hard drive. Whether you go for a Lexar internal SSD, one of their robust external portable options, or a high-performance alternative, your HP laptop will thank you with snappier performance and more room to breathe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I install an SSD in any HP laptop?
A1: Most modern HP laptops (especially those from the last 5-7 years) have either a 2.5-inch SATA bay, an M.2 slot (for NVMe or SATA M.2 SSDs), or both. Older laptops might only have a 2.5-inch SATA bay. It’s crucial to check your specific HP laptop model’s specifications or consult its service manual to determine compatible drive types and form factors before purchasing.
Q2: What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A2: SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) SSDs are typically 2.5-inch drives or M.2 form factors that connect via the SATA interface, offering speeds up to around 550 MB/s. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs use the PCIe interface, which is much faster, reaching speeds several times that of SATA drives (e.g., 2000-7000 MB/s). NVMe drives usually come in the M.2 form factor.
Q3: Is it difficult to install an internal SSD in an HP laptop?
A3: For most HP laptops, installing a 2.5-inch SATA SSD or an M.2 NVMe SSD is a relatively straightforward process. It usually involves removing the laptop’s back panel, unscrewing the old drive, and replacing it with the new SSD. You’ll then need to install your operating system or clone your old drive. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a professional or detailed online tutorials for your specific laptop model.
Q4: Will an external SSD improve my HP laptop’s overall performance?
A4: An external SSD significantly improves transfer speeds for files stored on it and can speed up applications run directly from the external drive. However, it won’t directly improve your HP laptop’s boot times or the performance of applications installed on the internal drive. For a full system speed boost, an internal SSD upgrade is essential.
Q5: How much storage capacity do I really need?
A5: It depends on your usage.
* 128GB-256GB: Good for basic use (web browsing, documents, light apps) and as a boot drive.
* 500GB-1TB: Ideal for most users, offering ample space for the OS, software, photos, and some games. This is often the Lexar best and biggest and cheapest SSD drive for HP laptop sweet spot for value.
* 2TB+: Best for professionals, gamers, or anyone with large media collections, requiring extensive storage.
Q6: What does TBW mean for an SSD?
A6: TBW stands for Terabytes Written and is a measure of an SSD’s endurance – how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it might start to degrade. Higher TBW ratings mean the drive is more durable and will last longer under heavy write operations. For typical laptop use, even lower TBW ratings like 60TBW (for a 128GB drive) are more than enough for many years of use.
Q7: Can I use Lexar DataShield encryption on any Lexar SSD?
A7: Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software is typically included with specific Lexar external SSDs like the Lexar ES3 and some professional series drives. Always check the product features to confirm if the encryption software is bundled with the particular Lexar SSD you are considering.