Running out of storage on your Xbox Series S? You’re not alone! With game sizes getting bigger by the day, that internal 512GB SSD fills up faster than you can say “Quick Resume.” If you’re looking to expand your digital library and keep those lightning-fast load times, investing in a high-quality external SSD is a game-changer. While Lexar offers some fantastic options, the market has several top contenders.
In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the Lexar best SSD for Xbox Series S options, alongside other industry-leading drives that deliver exceptional performance and reliability. We’ve handpicked 7 top external storage solutions that will help you keep more games installed, reduce load times for older titles, and generally improve your gaming experience. Let’s find the perfect storage upgrade for your console!
1. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD in its 2TB variant is an absolute beast when it comes to speed and capacity. This sleek, ultra-thin drive offers incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, making it a fantastic choice for archiving your Xbox Series S games or playing backward-compatible titles directly. Its robust metal design and efficient thermal control mean it’s built to handle demanding tasks without breaking a sweat, ensuring your gaming sessions remain smooth and uninterrupted. If you’re seeking a high-capacity, lightning-fast external drive that’s also compatible with a wide range of devices, this Lexar SSD should be high on your list.
- 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 Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, mobile devices, laptops, and cameras
- 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:
– Blazing-fast transfer speeds ideal for game backups and older titles
– Generous 2TB capacity
– Highly portable and durable construction
– Excellent thermal management
– Broad device compatibility, including Xbox Series S (for non-optimized games)
Cons:
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speed (Xbox Series S supports USB 3.1 Gen 1/2)
– Not officially licensed for playing Xbox Series S optimized games directly
User Impressions: Gamers and power users rave about the SL500’s incredible speed and compact size. Many appreciate its sturdy build and the sheer convenience it offers for managing large media files and game libraries across multiple platforms.
2. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
Much like its larger sibling, the 1TB Lexar SL500 Portable SSD delivers exceptional speed and portability, making it another contender for the Lexar best SSD for Xbox Series S title if you’re looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option. It packs the same impressive USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance and sleek metal design, ensuring your data transfers are swift and your drive stays cool. This 1TB model is perfect for gamers who need significant extra storage for their Xbox Series S, particularly for playing a vast collection of Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games directly from the drive.
- 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 Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, mobile devices, laptops, and cameras
- 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:
– Excellent speed for game transfers and backward-compatible titles
– Compact and robust design
– Good thermal management
– Versatile compatibility with various devices
– More affordable than the 2TB version
Cons:
– Not officially licensed for direct Xbox Series S optimized game play
– Xbox Series S won’t utilize its full 2000MB/s speed capability
User Impressions: Users frequently praise this drive for its “pocket rocket” performance and solid build quality. It’s often recommended for those needing a reliable, fast external drive for general storage and gaming.
3. Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S 1 TB
When it comes to playing Xbox Series X|S optimized games directly from an external drive, the officially licensed Seagate Storage Expansion Card is the gold standard. Designed in partnership with Xbox, this card seamlessly integrates with your console’s Xbox Velocity Architecture, meaning you get identical performance to the internal SSD – no compromises on graphics, latency, load times, or framerates. If you want to expand your storage without any performance hit for your latest Series S titles, this is the way to go.
- Designed in partnership with Xbox for seamless Xbox Series X|S game play
- Maintains peak performance (graphics, latency, load times, framerates) identical to internal SSD
- Officially licensed, leveraging Xbox Velocity Architecture
- Supports Quick Resume for switching between multiple titles instantly
- Compatible with thousands of Original Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One games
- Includes 3-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Only solution for playing Xbox Series S optimized games directly with full performance
– Plug-and-play design, no setup required
– Seamless integration with Xbox Velocity Architecture
– Supports Quick Resume across all installed games
– Identical performance to the internal SSD
Cons:
– Premium price point
– Proprietary format, less versatile than standard external SSDs
User Impressions: Universally lauded by Xbox Series S owners as the “must-have” storage upgrade. Users report perfect performance, just like the internal drive, and appreciate the ease of installation.
4. Seagate Storage Expansion Card 2TB Solid State Drive
For the ultimate Xbox Series S game library, the 2TB Seagate Storage Expansion Card is an unparalleled choice. It offers all the benefits of the 1TB version – full compatibility with the Xbox Velocity Architecture, identical performance to the internal SSD for optimized games, and official licensing – but with double the storage capacity. This means you can keep even more of your favorite next-gen titles installed and ready to play at a moment’s notice, without worrying about transferring games or compromising on performance.
- Designed in partnership with Xbox for seamless Xbox Series X|S game play
- Maintains peak performance (graphics, latency, load times, framerates) identical to internal SSD
- Officially licensed, leveraging Xbox Velocity Architecture
- Supports Quick Resume for switching between multiple titles instantly
- Compatible with thousands of Original Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One games
- Includes 3-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Massive 2TB capacity for an extensive game library
– Full performance for Xbox Series S optimized games, mirroring internal SSD
– Effortless plug-and-play installation
– Ensures optimal use of Quick Resume
– Long-term peace of mind with a 3-year warranty
Cons:
– Highest price point among storage options
– Proprietary design limits use with other devices
User Impressions: Customers love the sheer convenience and massive storage space. It eliminates the constant struggle of uninstalling games and is seen as the definitive storage solution for serious Xbox Series S gamers.
5. Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable SSD
The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD is designed for professionals and serious gamers who demand both speed and rugged durability. While not officially licensed for direct Series S optimized game play, its blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds (up to 1050MB/s read) make it perfect for storing and quickly transferring a huge library of Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games. What really makes this drive stand out is its integrated hub with four USB Type-C connectors and robust IP65 dust- and water-resistance, offering not just storage but also versatile connectivity in a tiny, resilient package.
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2)
- Expanded device connectivity with built-in hub (4 USB Type-C, up to 30W power)
- Rugged IP65 dust- and water-resistance
- 3.3′ (1m) anti-drop protection
- Compact and portable design (1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32″, 0.5 oz)
- Universal compatibility with Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, iPhone 15 series, PCs, Macs, tablets, cameras
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for transferring games and playing older titles
– Extremely durable with IP65 rating and drop protection
– Unique built-in USB-C hub is highly versatile for other devices
– Incredibly compact and lightweight
– Wide array of device compatibility
Cons:
– Higher price than other portable SSDs without the hub feature
– Not for playing Xbox Series S optimized games directly
User Impressions: Users are impressed by its robust build and the innovative integrated hub, finding it incredibly useful for on-the-go data management and connecting multiple peripherals. Its speed is a major highlight.
6. WD_Black 1TB C50 Storage Expansion Card, Officially Licensed for Xbox
The WD_Black C50 Storage Expansion Card is another superb officially licensed option for your Xbox Series S. Just like the Seagate card, it fully integrates with the Xbox Velocity Architecture, delivering identical performance to your console’s internal storage. This means zero compromises on load times, graphics, or framerates for all your Xbox Series S optimized games. The 1TB capacity is perfect for gamers who need a substantial boost to their storage without breaking the bank, ensuring you can keep more of the latest titles installed and ready to play.
- Leverages Xbox Velocity Architecture for identical performance as internal storage
- Officially licensed Xbox storage expansion card
- Plug-and-play compatibility with Xbox Series X|S
- Keeps more of today’s top titles installed and ready to go
- Slick, industrial aesthetics matching the Xbox console
- Allows direct play of Xbox Series X|S games without transfer
Pros:
– Full, uncompromised performance for Series S optimized games
– Effortless plug-and-play installation
– Reliable and officially supported by Xbox
– Stylish design that complements the console
– Good balance of capacity and cost for official expansion
Cons:
– Proprietary form factor limits its use elsewhere
– Generally more expensive than standard external SSDs of similar capacity
User Impressions: Reviewers highlight its seamless performance and ease of use. It’s often praised for being a reliable and effective solution for expanding next-gen game storage without any noticeable difference from the internal drive.
7. WD_Black 2TB C50 Storage Expansion Card, Officially Licensed for Xbox
If 1TB just isn’t enough, the WD_Black 2TB C50 Storage Expansion Card provides a massive upgrade for your Xbox Series S. This officially licensed powerhouse offers the ultimate solution for gamers who want to install every game they own, from the latest blockbusters to a vast back catalog, all while maintaining the Xbox Velocity Architecture’s lightning-fast performance. Say goodbye to game management headaches; with 2TB of expansion, you’ll have plenty of room for years of gaming adventures without ever needing to uninstall a title.
- Leverages Xbox Velocity Architecture for identical performance as internal storage
- Officially licensed Xbox storage expansion card
- Plug-and-play compatibility with Xbox Series X|S
- Massive 2TB capacity to keep more top titles installed
- Slick, industrial aesthetics matching the Xbox console
- Allows direct play of Xbox Series X|S games without transfer
Pros:
– Maximum capacity for an officially licensed expansion card
– Guaranteed full performance for all Xbox Series S optimized games
– Simple, hassle-free installation
– Perfect for large game libraries and future-proofing
– Consistent and reliable performance
Cons:
– Highest cost among the WD_Black C50 range
– Specific to Xbox Series X|S consoles
User Impressions: This card receives enthusiastic praise for its massive storage and seamless integration. Users report that it’s a “set it and forget it” solution that dramatically improves their gaming experience by eliminating storage concerns.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why do I need an external SSD for my Xbox Series S?
A: The Xbox Series S has a relatively small internal storage of 512GB (with less available for games). Modern game sizes can quickly fill this up. An external SSD allows you to store more games, reducing the need to constantly uninstall and reinstall titles. For older, backward-compatible games, you can often play them directly from a fast external SSD, freeing up internal space for Series S optimized games.
Q2: What’s the difference between an officially licensed expansion card and a regular external SSD?
A: An officially licensed expansion card (like the Seagate or WD_Black cards reviewed) is specifically designed to integrate with the Xbox Velocity Architecture. This means you can play Xbox Series X|S optimized games directly from them with no loss in performance, load times, or features like Quick Resume. A regular external SSD (like the Lexar portable drives) can store Xbox Series X|S optimized games, but to play them, you’ll need to transfer them back to the console’s internal storage or an official expansion card. However, regular external SSDs are perfectly fine for storing and playing Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games directly.
Q3: Can I play Xbox Series S optimized games directly from a portable Lexar SSD?
A: You can store Xbox Series S optimized games on a portable Lexar SSD, but you cannot play them directly from it. To play these games, they must be transferred to the console’s internal SSD or an officially licensed Xbox Storage Expansion Card. However, you can play backward-compatible Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games directly from the Lexar portable SSD with great performance.
Q4: How much storage do I really need?
A: This depends on your gaming habits. If you play a few big titles at a time, 1TB might be enough. If you have a vast game library from Game Pass or own many digital titles, 2TB or more will give you much more flexibility. Consider the sizes of the games you play and how often you want to switch between them without redownloading.
Q5: Are Lexar SSDs good for Xbox Series S?
A: Yes, Lexar SSDs are excellent for Xbox Series S storage needs, especially for holding and playing backward-compatible games or for quickly transferring Series S optimized games. Their high speeds, reliability, and compact designs make them a top choice for external storage, offering fantastic value.
Q6: Is it difficult to install an external SSD or expansion card on Xbox Series S?
A: Not at all! Both types of storage solutions are incredibly easy to install. For an external USB SSD, simply plug it into an available USB port on your Xbox Series S. The console will prompt you to format it for game storage. For an officially licensed expansion card, it slides directly into the dedicated expansion slot on the back of the console – it’s truly plug-and-play.
Q7: Will an external SSD improve my game’s performance?
A: For Xbox Series S optimized games, only an officially licensed expansion card will match the internal SSD’s performance, ensuring no impact on load times, graphics, or framerates. For older Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games, an external SSD (like the Lexar options) can significantly reduce load times compared to an older HDD, providing a noticeable performance boost.
Conclusion
Choosing the Lexar best SSD for Xbox Series S (or another top-tier brand) is a smart move for any serious gamer looking to conquer their storage woes. While Lexar offers fantastic portable SSDs like the SL500 series that are perfect for your backward-compatible library and efficient game transfers, officially licensed expansion cards from Seagate and WD_Black provide the ultimate seamless experience for Xbox Series S optimized titles.
No matter which path you choose, expanding your Xbox Series S storage will lead to less time managing installations and more time playing your favorite games. We hope this guide helps you pick the perfect SSD to keep your gaming adventures going strong!