Hey there, fellow gamers! Are you tired of long loading screens? Is your current storage holding back your gaming rig’s true potential? If you’re nodding your head, then it’s time to talk about Solid State Drives (SSDs). Specifically, we’re diving deep into why Lexar SSDs could be your go-to for an upgrade, especially if you’re hunting for the Lexar best budget SSD for gaming.
Lexar has carved out a reputation for producing reliable, high-performance storage solutions that often come with a more accessible price tag compared to some competitors. This makes them a fantastic choice for gamers who want top-tier speed without completely emptying their wallets. In this article, we’ll explore seven standout Lexar SSDs, breaking down their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to cut down those load times and jump straight into the action!
Why Choose Lexar for Gaming SSDs?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly touch on why Lexar is a solid contender in the gaming SSD space. They offer a great balance of speed, durability, and value. Many of their drives leverage cutting-edge technologies like PCIe Gen4 NVMe, ensuring your games load in a flash and your system feels snappy. Plus, with options ranging from internal NVMe drives perfect for your PC or PS5, to rugged portable SSDs for gaming on the go, Lexar truly has something for everyone. Finding the Lexar best budget SSD for gaming means looking for that sweet spot between performance and affordability that perfectly fits your needs.
Our Top 7 Lexar SSD Picks for Gamers
Let’s get down to business and explore the drives that could be your next gaming companion.
1. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re serious about gaming and need lightning-fast performance, the Lexar 1TB NM790 is a fantastic choice. This internal NVMe SSD doesn’t just promise speed; it delivers it in spades, making it a strong candidate for the Lexar best budget SSD for gaming in the high-performance category. It’s engineered to load your games quicker than ever, ensuring you spend less time waiting and more time playing. Plus, its compatibility with the PlayStation 5 means console gamers can also enjoy a significant upgrade.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1000TBW endurance rating
- 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 transfers
- 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:
- Blazing-fast read/write speeds for rapid game loading
- Excellent endurance ensures long-term reliability
- Energy-efficient, great for both desktops and laptops
- PS5 compatible for console enthusiasts
- Robust 5-year warranty offers peace of mind
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Cons:
- Might be overkill for very casual gamers
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 M.2 slot to achieve full speeds
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User Impressions:
Gamers consistently praise the NM790 for its transformative speed, noting significant improvements in boot times and game load screens. Many appreciate its ease of installation and solid performance, especially for its competitive price point.
2. Lexar 1TB NQ780 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Looking for a solid PCIe Gen4 upgrade that won’t totally break the bank? The Lexar 1TB NQ780 offers a fantastic balance of speed and value, making it another contender for a budget-friendly gaming SSD. While its write speeds aren’t as stratospheric as the NM790, its read speeds are still incredibly fast, giving you that crucial edge in game loading. It’s also a great fit for laptops, ensuring your portable gaming rig keeps up with the action.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Read/write speeds up to 6500/2500 MB/s
- High-quality 8-channel Gen 4 controller for sustained performance
- HMB and SLC cache technologies improve performance and reduce latency
- Single-sided design and Intelligent Power Control, great for laptops
- Lexar DiskMaster SSD Management tool for monitoring and updates
- 5-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Excellent read speeds for quick game access
- Budget-friendly PCIe Gen4 option
- Optimized for laptops with its single-sided design and power control
- Useful DiskMaster software for drive management
- Reliable 5-year warranty
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Cons:
- Write speeds are lower than some premium Gen4 drives
- May not be the ultimate choice for intensive professional video editing
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User Impressions:
Users often highlight the NQ780 as a strong value proposition, delivering noticeable speed improvements over older SATA drives or even Gen3 NVMe SSDs. Its reliable performance and laptop compatibility are frequently praised.
3. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Why settle for 1TB when you can have 2TB of blistering speed? The 2TB version of the Lexar NM790 takes all the incredible performance of its 1TB sibling and doubles the storage capacity. This is perfect for hardcore gamers with massive game libraries or content creators who need serious space for their projects. If you’re building a top-tier gaming PC or upgrading your PS5 and want ample room for upcoming AAA titles, this drive is definitely worth considering.
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Key Features:
- 2TB capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- Massive 1500TBW endurance rating
- 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 seamless performance
- 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:
- Huge 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries
- Top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds for ultimate performance
- High endurance rating ensures extreme longevity
- Energy-efficient and PS5 compatible
- Excellent value for a 2TB high-performance NVMe SSD
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to increased capacity
- Still requires a Gen4 M.2 slot for full speeds
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User Impressions:
Reviewers are thrilled with the 2TB NM790’s combination of vast storage and extreme speed, particularly highlighting its value for money compared to other high-capacity Gen4 drives. PS5 owners, in particular, love the expanded storage for their digital game collections.
4. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Sometimes, gaming isn’t just about what’s inside your rig. For gamers who need a portable solution to carry their favorite titles, or content creators who dabble in game development, the Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a game-changer. It’s designed for spontaneous creativity, but its robust features and included hub also make it a versatile external storage option for consoles or PCs when you need extra room on the go.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Ultra-compact design for portability
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for connection)
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Ready for travel: dust-proof, water-resistant (IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Highly portable and rugged for on-the-go use
- Integrated USB hub adds immense versatility
- Excellent speeds for an external drive, great for large game files
- Durable design protects against accidents
- Long 5-year warranty
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Cons:
- External drive, not suitable as a primary internal gaming drive
- Performance is limited by USB interface, not NVMe speeds
- Type-C connection might require adapters for older systems
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User Impressions:
This drive is a hit with professionals and tech enthusiasts who appreciate its multi-functional design. Users love the convenience of the built-in hub and its robust build quality, making it ideal for mobile workflows or carrying game data between devices.
5. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
For gamers who need reliable external storage that’s easy on the wallet and incredibly compact, the Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is an excellent choice. This sleek, durable drive is perfect for expanding your console storage (PS4, PS5, Xbox) or carrying a library of PC games wherever you go. Its plug-and-play simplicity and wide compatibility make it a truly versatile solution for any gamer on a budget.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming consoles, and more
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, durable metal design; weighs 42g, 10.5mm thick
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software
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Pros:
- Extremely portable and pocket-friendly design
- Broad compatibility across various devices, including gaming consoles
- Solid USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds for quick file transfers
- Robust metal casing for durability
- Included encryption software for data security
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Cons:
- Performance may be lower on systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version
- Slower than internal NVMe SSDs for primary PC gaming
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User Impressions:
Customers love the ES3’s portability and ease of use, often citing its reliable performance for console game storage and quick backups. Its small footprint and durable build are frequently highlighted as major advantages.
6. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD
Stepping up the external SSD game, the Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD delivers phenomenal speeds for its class. If you’re looking for an external drive that can truly keep up with demanding tasks like 4K recording on an iPhone 15 Pro, or simply want the fastest possible external game library, this is it. Its USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface pushes performance limits, making it a fantastic companion for both serious gamers and content creators.
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds for a portable SSD (if your device supports USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- Ultra-slim and stylish metal design
- Ideal for professional mobile recording and external gaming
- Effective thermal management prevents throttling
- Excellent compatibility and security features
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Cons:
- Full speeds require a compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port, which isn’t universal
- Still an external drive, not an internal boot drive replacement
- Might be pricier than standard external SSDs
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User Impressions:
Users are consistently impressed by the SL500’s speed and sleek design. Many professionals laud its ProRes recording capabilities, while gamers appreciate how smoothly their games run directly from the drive on consoles or PCs.
7. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
The Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD is where innovation meets extreme portability and performance. With its unique MagSafe-compatible design and robust build, this drive is perfect for mobile content creation and expanding the storage of your compatible smartphone or tablet. For gamers, it offers a high-speed, durable solution for carrying games or media, especially if you’re in the Apple ecosystem or use a MagSafe-compatible Android device (with the included ring).
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Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- 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 recording in Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS
- Includes free access to the Lexar App for auto backups and mobile storage expansion
- Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 3M
- Thin and stylish liquid silicone build with comfortable grip and cable organizer/lanyard
- Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures
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Pros:
- Top-tier speeds for a portable SSD
- MagSafe compatibility offers unique convenience for mobile users
- Extremely durable with IP65 rating and 3M drop resistance
- Advanced recording support for professional video
- Lexar App for easy mobile backup and management
- Stylish and ergonomic design
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Cons:
- Full speeds require USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port
- MagSafe feature is specific to compatible devices
- May be overkill or pricier for basic external storage needs
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User Impressions:
This drive earns high marks for its innovative magnetic attachment, impressive durability, and raw speed. Mobile content creators especially love its seamless integration and recording capabilities, while its ruggedness provides peace of mind for all users.
Finding Your Lexar Best Budget SSD for Gaming
As you can see, Lexar offers a wide range of SSDs that cater to different needs and budgets. If you’re building a new gaming PC or upgrading an existing one, an internal NVMe drive like the Lexar NM790 (1TB or 2TB) or the NQ780 would be your best bet for maximizing in-game performance. For console gamers or those who need a portable library, the external SSDs like the SL500 or ES3 offer fantastic value and speed.
Ultimately, the Lexar best budget SSD for gaming for you will depend on your specific setup, how much you’re willing to spend, and what kind of gaming you do. But one thing’s for sure: Lexar gives you plenty of great options to choose from without having to empty your bank account!
FAQ Section
Q1: What’s the difference between an internal and external SSD for gaming?
A1: An internal SSD (like the NM790 or NQ780) is installed directly inside your PC or console, usually offering the fastest speeds for your operating system and primary games. An external SSD connects via a USB cable and is great for expanding storage, carrying games between devices, or for console game storage where internal upgrades might be limited or more complex. Internal drives typically offer better peak performance for gaming.
Q2: Is PCIe Gen4 really necessary for gaming, or is Gen3 enough?
A2: While PCIe Gen3 SSDs are still very fast and perfectly adequate for most gaming, PCIe Gen4 drives offer significantly higher read and write speeds. This translates to even faster game loading, quicker asset streaming in open-world games, and snappier overall system responsiveness. For competitive gamers or those building a future-proof rig, Gen4 is definitely worth the investment, especially if you find a Lexar best budget SSD for gaming that’s Gen4.
Q3: Can Lexar SSDs be used with PlayStation 5 (PS5) or Xbox?
A3: Yes! Many Lexar internal NVMe SSDs, like the NM790, are specifically designed to meet or exceed the performance requirements for PS5 storage expansion. For Xbox Series X|S, external USB SSDs like the ES3 or SL500 can be used to store Series X|S games (but not play them directly) and to play older Xbox One, 360, and original Xbox titles.
Q4: What does “TBW” mean, and why is it important for SSDs?
A4: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written” and is a measure of an SSD’s endurance or lifespan. It indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it’s expected to fail. Higher TBW ratings (like the 1000TBW or 1500TBW on the NM790 series) mean the drive can withstand more data writes, which is great for longevity, especially for gamers who frequently install, uninstall, and update large games.
Q5: Are Lexar SSDs compatible with laptops?
A5: Absolutely! Many Lexar internal NVMe SSDs, including the NM790 and NQ780, feature a single-sided design, which makes them ideal for the slim confines of modern laptops. External Lexar SSDs are also highly compatible with laptops via USB-C connections, offering portable storage expansion.
Q6: What should I look for when choosing a budget gaming SSD?
A6: When choosing a budget gaming SSD, prioritize a good balance of capacity and speed. Look for NVMe drives if your motherboard supports them, as they offer much faster performance than SATA SSDs. Aim for at least 1TB of storage to comfortably fit several modern games. Check for a decent warranty (Lexar often offers 5 years) for peace of mind. Lastly, compare prices to ensure you’re truly getting a budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much performance.
Q7: How do I install an internal NVMe SSD?
A7: Installing an internal NVMe SSD is generally straightforward. You’ll need an M.2 slot on your motherboard (check your motherboard’s manual). Simply insert the SSD into the slot at an angle, then push it down and secure it with a small screw. For PS5, there’s a specific M.2 expansion slot accessible after removing the console’s cover. Always consult your device’s manual for precise installation instructions.