In today’s fast-paced digital world, whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a professional content creator, or simply someone who needs robust and speedy storage, the demand for high-performance SSDs is ever-growing. When it comes to building a RAID array for maximum speed, data redundancy, or a combination of both, choosing the right SSDs is paramount. Lexar has consistently delivered cutting-edge storage solutions, and understanding which Lexar drives are the Lexar best RAID for SSD drives can significantly enhance your system’s capabilities.
RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations combine multiple physical drives into a single logical unit, offering advantages like increased performance, enhanced data integrity, or both. To truly capitalize on RAID, you need drives that can keep up, offering consistent speeds, reliability, and sufficient endurance. Let’s dive into some of Lexar’s top SSD offerings and see why they might be the perfect fit for your next RAID project or demanding standalone setup.
We’ve scoured Lexar’s extensive lineup to bring you 7 fantastic SSDs, both internal and external, that stand out for their performance, reliability, and innovative features. While “RAID for SSD drives” typically refers to internal drives, we’ve included some high-performance portables that excel in demanding external use cases, like direct recording for professionals, which often mirrors the need for consistent, high-speed data handling.
1. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a mobile workstation. The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD combines blazing-fast storage with a built-in hub, making it an indispensable tool for spontaneous creativity on the go. Its rugged design ensures your data is safe wherever your adventures take you, making it a fantastic choice for professionals who need reliable, high-speed access to large files outside the office. While not directly for an internal RAID, its performance characteristics and durability highlight Lexar’s commitment to high-end data handling, suggesting its internal brethren also boast such qualities for RAID use.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact for on-the-go creativity
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector with built-in hub (four USB Type-C ports)
– Supports Apple ProRes footage capture and storage with ease
– Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording
– Dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Exceptional portability and integrated hub
– Robust and durable for outdoor/travel use
– Excellent for high-resolution video recording (e.g., Apple ProRes)
– Fast read/write speeds for an external drive
– Versatile with included adapters and cables
Cons:
– “Wireless plug-and-play” connector needs firm insertion
– iPhone 17 series compatibility still pending
– Hub features might be overkill for some users
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise its innovative hub design and rugged build quality, making it a favorite among photographers and videographers who need to offload data quickly in the field. The ability to directly record ProRes footage is a game-changer for iPhone 15 Pro users. Some note the Type-C connection requires a solid push to ensure it’s fully seated, but overall, it’s a powerful and reliable companion.
2. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
For those building a high-performance PC or upgrading a PlayStation 5, the Lexar NM790 is a true powerhouse. This internal SSD leverages PCIe Gen4 technology to deliver incredible speeds, making it an excellent candidate when considering the Lexar best RAID for SSD drives for a workstation or gaming rig. Its impressive endurance and power efficiency mean you get top-tier performance without excessive heat or power draw, critical factors for any demanding setup, especially in RAID 0 for speed or RAID 1 for redundancy.
Key Features:
– [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW endurance
– 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 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:
– Blazing-fast Gen4 speeds
– Excellent power efficiency
– High endurance (1500TBW)
– PS5 compatibility
– Single-sided design is versatile for various devices
Cons:
– Not the absolute latest Gen5 technology (but still incredibly fast for Gen4)
– Requires an M.2 slot and PCIe Gen4 support for full performance
User Impressions:
Gamers and creative professionals are consistently thrilled with the NM790’s speed and responsiveness. Many highlight its ease of installation and significant performance boost for their systems, especially PS5 users looking for expanded, fast storage. The low power consumption is also a frequently mentioned positive, contributing to cooler system operation.
3. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
The Lexar ES3 combines sleek design with robust functionality. It’s incredibly thin and light, making it the perfect pocket-sized companion for anyone needing fast, secure external storage. Its wide compatibility and built-in AES encryption software make it a standout choice for those who need to carry sensitive data or expand storage for various devices. While not an internal drive for RAID, its focus on secure, rapid data transfer makes it align with the needs of users who prioritize data integrity and speed – qualities that are highly valued in any serious storage solution.
Key Features:
– High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
– Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming consoles, and more
– On The Go: Thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g, 10.5mm thick (smaller than a card)
– Includes Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
– Data Safety First: Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software
Pros:
– Extremely portable and lightweight
– Fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds
– Excellent device compatibility (especially iPhone 15)
– Robust 256-bit AES encryption for data security
– Stylish and durable metal casing
Cons:
– Performance may be lower if your system doesn’t support USB 3.2 Gen 2
– Magsafe not available in this version (as noted)
User Impressions:
Customers love the ES3’s discreet profile and powerful performance. iPhone 15 users, in particular, find it indispensable for expanding their phone’s storage and managing media. The encryption feature is a big win for those concerned about data privacy. Its plug-and-play simplicity and broad compatibility also receive high marks.
4. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid
Sometimes, you don’t need the latest NVMe speed demon; you just need to breathe new life into an older system. The Lexar NS100 is a fantastic, cost-effective solution for upgrading traditional hard drives. It provides a significant boost in startup, application loading, and data transfer speeds, making older laptops and desktops feel brand new. For entry-level RAID 0 or RAID 1 configurations on older motherboards with SATA ports, using a pair of these can still offer a noticeable performance or reliability upgrade over a single HDD, highlighting Lexar’s commitment to diverse storage needs.
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 endurance
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Affordable upgrade for older systems
– Dramatically improves system responsiveness over HDDs
– More reliable and durable due to no moving parts
– Easy to install in most 2.5-inch drive bays
Cons:
– SATA III speeds are significantly slower than NVMe drives
– Lower capacity (256GB) might not be enough for primary drives in modern systems
– Limited warranty compared to some other Lexar SSDs
User Impressions:
This drive is a consistent hit with users looking for an economical performance boost. Many report their old computers feeling like new after switching from an HDD, praising the faster boot times and snappier application launches. It’s widely considered an excellent value for money upgrade.
5. Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
For the ultimate in speed and future-proofing, look no further than the Lexar NM1090 PRO. This Gen5 NVMe SSD pushes the boundaries of performance, delivering astonishing read/write speeds that are perfect for AI workloads, high-end gaming, and intensive content creation. If you’re building a top-tier system and need the absolute Lexar best RAID for SSD drives that money can buy for a PCIe Gen5-enabled motherboard, this is it. Its robust caching and DirectStorage support ensure you’re always operating at peak efficiency.
Key Features:
– PCIe 5.0 technology delivers blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s
– Accelerates load times by 200% – great with AMD Ryzen and Intel i9
– Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control for a smoother experience
– Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs: reduces bottlenecks, accelerates AI model training, inferencing, and real-time data processing
– DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds
– Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads and minimize delays
Pros:
– Industry-leading PCIe Gen5 speeds
– Optimized for AI applications and demanding workloads
– Excellent thermal management with 6nm controller
– Superior caching for consistent high performance
– DirectStorage support for next-gen gaming
Cons:
– Requires a PCIe Gen5 compatible motherboard and CPU (expensive)
– Premium price point
– Generates more heat than Gen4 drives (though optimized)
User Impressions:
Enthusiasts and professionals who have compatible systems are simply blown away by the NM1090 PRO’s speed. They describe it as “future-proof” and a “game-changer” for data-intensive tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and AI development. The fast load times in games and applications are frequently highlighted as a major benefit.
6. Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible
When capacity meets extreme speed in a portable package, you get the Lexar SL500. This 4TB external SSD offers incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, making it ideal for large file transfers, mobile content creation, and even direct recording with iPhone 15 Pro series. Its unique thermal control design ensures sustained high performance, preventing throttling during long sessions. For external use, this is a prime example of Lexar pushing boundaries to deliver powerful and reliable storage solutions.
Key Features:
– Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
– Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket
– Supports Apple ProRes recording – shoot directly to the drive in 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 for 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
Pros:
– Massive 4TB capacity in a portable form factor
– Extremely fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds
– Excellent for direct ProRes recording with iPhone 15 Pro
– Effective thermal management for sustained performance
– Durable and secure with AES encryption
Cons:
– Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for full speed (not universal yet)
– Slightly larger than some ultra-compact portable SSDs
User Impressions:
Professional videographers and photographers are particularly impressed by the SL500’s ability to handle direct ProRes recording from their iPhones without a hitch. Its speed and generous capacity are frequently praised, along with its robust build. The thermal control ensures consistent performance, even during extended transfers.
7. Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 4TB
The Lexar SL600 takes portable storage to the next level with symmetrical read and write speeds of 2000MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. This drive is built for speed and endurance, offering ample storage in a rugged, compact design. Its universal compatibility and inclusion of both Type-C and Type-A cables make it an incredibly versatile choice for power users on the go. If you need a robust external drive that can handle huge files quickly and reliably, this is an outstanding option.
Key Features:
– INCREDIBLE SPEED: Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds, powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
– AMPLE STORAGE: Available in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB capacities
– RUGGED DURABILITY: Shock and vibration-resistant, protecting valuable data from bumps and drops
– COMPACT & PORTABLE: Dimensions of just 4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches and a weight of 2.25 oz
– UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works with Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, and Android 4.4+ systems
– Includes USB Type-C and Type-A cables
Pros:
– Symmetrical blazing-fast 2000MB/s read/write speeds
– High capacity options (up to 4TB)
– Exceptional ruggedness and durability
– Ultra-compact and lightweight design
– Broad operating system compatibility
– Includes both Type-C and Type-A cables for convenience
Cons:
– Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for maximum speed
– Might be slightly thicker than some competitors
– No mention of AES encryption (unlike SL500)
User Impressions:
Users frequently highlight the SL600’s incredible speed and its ability to withstand daily knocks and bumps. It’s a popular choice among field professionals and travelers who need fast, reliable backups. The thoughtful inclusion of both cable types is a definite plus for broader compatibility across devices.
Choosing the Lexar Best RAID for SSD Drives: Final Thoughts
Lexar truly offers a fantastic range of SSDs, from ultra-fast internal NVMe drives that are perfect for complex RAID setups to highly durable and speedy portable options for demanding external workflows. When selecting the Lexar best RAID for SSD drives for your specific needs, consider your motherboard’s capabilities (SATA, PCIe Gen4, Gen5), your desired RAID level (speed vs. redundancy), and of course, your budget.
For raw internal speed in a RAID array, the NM1090 PRO (PCIe Gen5) and NM790 (PCIe Gen4) are your top contenders, offering the consistent high performance and endurance crucial for such configurations. For older systems, the NS100 SATA SSDs can still provide a notable upgrade. And for those seeking external solutions that mirror internal RAID needs for speed and reliability, the SL500, SL600, and Professional Go Portable SSDs are outstanding choices for content creators and professionals on the move.
No matter your requirement, Lexar has a high-quality SSD that can help you achieve your storage goals. Upgrade your system today and experience the Lexar difference!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What exactly is RAID and why would I use it with Lexar SSDs?
A: RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) is a storage virtualization technology that combines multiple physical disk drive components into a single logical unit for the purposes of data redundancy, performance improvement, or both. You’d use it with Lexar SSDs to either achieve incredibly fast data transfer speeds (e.g., RAID 0 for striping) for tasks like video editing or gaming, or to ensure data protection and redundancy (e.g., RAID 1 for mirroring) for critical information.
Q2: Which Lexar SSDs are best suited for internal RAID configurations?
A: For internal RAID configurations, you’ll generally want M.2 NVMe SSDs for the best performance. The Lexar NM1090 PRO (PCIe Gen5) and Lexar NM790 (PCIe Gen4) are excellent choices due to their high read/write speeds, endurance ratings, and consistent performance. For systems limited to SATA, multiple Lexar NS100 2.5-inch SATA SSDs can be used for a more budget-friendly RAID setup.
Q3: Do all Lexar SSDs support RAID?
A: RAID functionality isn’t inherent to the SSD itself; it’s managed by your computer’s motherboard or a dedicated RAID controller card. Any internal Lexar SSD (M.2 NVMe or 2.5-inch SATA) can be used in a RAID configuration, provided your system hardware supports and is configured for RAID. External SSDs like the SL500 or SL600 are not typically used in RAID arrays as they are single, portable drives.
Q4: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 Lexar SSDs for RAID?
A: PCIe Gen5 SSDs like the Lexar NM1090 PRO offer significantly higher theoretical and actual read/write speeds (up to 14,000 MB/s) compared to PCIe Gen4 SSDs like the Lexar NM790 (up to 7400 MB/s). In a RAID 0 configuration, a pair of Gen5 drives would offer potentially double the throughput of Gen4 drives, ideal for the most demanding workloads. However, Gen5 requires a compatible motherboard and CPU, which are typically more expensive.
Q5: How does endurance (TBW) factor into choosing Lexar SSDs for RAID?
A: Endurance, measured in Terabytes Written (TBW), indicates how much data can be written to an SSD over its lifetime before it might fail. For RAID setups, especially those involving frequent writes (like video editing scratch disks or database servers), higher TBW ratings (e.g., 1500TBW for the NM790) are preferable. This ensures the drives can handle the increased write cycles that RAID operations can sometimes incur, contributing to the overall longevity of your array.
Q6: Can I mix different Lexar SSD capacities or models in a RAID array?
A: While technically possible, it’s generally not recommended to mix different SSD capacities or models within the same RAID array. For optimal performance and stability, it’s best to use identical SSDs (same model, same capacity, and ideally purchased at the same time). If capacities differ, the RAID array will typically default to the size of the smallest drive, wasting potential storage on larger drives.
Q7: Are Lexar portable SSDs good for gaming or video editing if not in RAID?
A: Absolutely! High-speed Lexar portable SSDs like the SL500 and SL600, with speeds up to 2000MB/s, are excellent for gaming (especially for loading large game libraries quickly on a console or PC) and video editing. They can act as fast external scratch disks or be used for direct recording of high-resolution footage (e.g., Apple ProRes with iPhone 15 Pro), providing performance that rivals many internal drives for single-drive tasks.