Thinking about giving your trusty PlayStation 3 a new lease on life? While the PS3 is an older console, upgrading its storage can make a noticeable difference in load times and overall responsiveness. Swapping out that ancient spinning hard drive for a zippy solid-state drive (SSD) can breathe new energy into your classic gaming sessions. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the Lexar best SSD for PS3?
Lexar is a well-respected brand in the storage world, known for its reliable and high-performing SSDs. We’ve rounded up 7 top Lexar SSDs that might catch your eye. While not every SSD is a perfect fit for the PS3’s internal slot due to its older hardware, we’ll guide you through the pros and cons of each, focusing on their potential for boosting your PlayStation 3 gaming experience. Let’s dive in and find the ideal Lexar best SSD for PS3 that suits your needs!
Why Upgrade Your PS3 with an SSD?
Even though the PS3 uses an older SATA II interface, an SSD still offers several advantages over a traditional HDD:
- Faster Load Times: Games and applications will load quicker.
- Improved Responsiveness: The XMB (XrossMediaBar) menu can feel snappier.
- Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resistant to drops and shocks.
- Quieter Operation: No spinning platters means less noise.
Keep in mind that the PS3’s internal hardware will bottleneck even the fastest SSDs, so you won’t see their full advertised speeds. However, the benefits in seek times and general system responsiveness are still significant.
Product Reviews: Finding Your Lexar Best SSD for PS3
Here’s a detailed look at 7 Lexar SSDs, evaluating their suitability for your PlayStation 3.
1. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
If you’re looking for a highly portable storage solution that offers impressive speeds for modern devices, the Lexar ES3 is a fantastic pick. While its blazing USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds (up to 1050MB/s read) will be significantly throttled by the PS3’s USB 2.0 ports (around 60MB/s), it still makes for a durable and convenient external drive for storing game backups or media files, if that’s your need. Its compact design is a huge plus for on-the-go use.
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Key Features
- High-speed Data Transfer: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Wide Compatibility: Includes PS4, PS5, and other gaming consoles.
- Ultra-Portable: Thin, stylish, durable metal design, weighs 42g.
- Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Plug-and-play convenience with Type-C cable.
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Pros
- Excellent speeds for modern devices.
- Extremely compact and lightweight.
- Robust metal design for durability.
- Includes data encryption for security.
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Cons
- Overkill for PS3’s USB 2.0, speed will be heavily bottlenecked.
- External only, cannot be used for internal PS3 storage upgrade.
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User Impressions
Customers love its compact size and fast transfer speeds for laptops and new-gen consoles. Many appreciate its sturdy build and how easy it is to carry around for work or creative projects.
2. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe
Designed primarily for the PlayStation 5 and high-performance PC gaming, the Lexar 4TB Play SSD is an absolute powerhouse. With staggering read speeds up to 7400MB/s and an integrated heatsink, it’s built to handle the most demanding modern games. However, it’s crucial to understand that this is an NVMe M.2 drive, making it completely incompatible with the PlayStation 3’s internal SATA 2.5-inch drive bay. This drive is fantastic for its intended purpose (PS5, PC), but it simply cannot be used to upgrade your PS3.
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Key Features
- Designed to coordinate with your PS5, enhancing your gaming experience.
- Blazing speeds: 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write.
- Tested and approved storage for PS5 console.
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- Can also be used for PC gaming, with HMB and SLC Dynamic cache.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Incredible speeds for PS5 and PC gaming.
- Integrated heatsink for optimal performance.
- High capacity for extensive game libraries.
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Cons
- Not compatible with PS3 (M.2 NVMe vs. PS3’s 2.5-inch SATA).
- Expensive, given its high-end performance.
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User Impressions
Users rave about its seamless integration and performance with their PS5s, noting significantly reduced load times and smooth gameplay. PC gamers also appreciate its speed and reliability for demanding applications.
3. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a versatile tool for content creators and professionals on the move. Not only does it offer fast portable storage, but it also integrates a four-port USB Type-C hub, making it incredibly useful for devices like the iPhone 15 Pro for ProRes recording. For the PS3, like other external drives, its high speeds (up to 1050MB/s) will be limited by the PS3’s USB 2.0 ports. However, if you need a durable, water-resistant external drive for general use that can sometimes double as a PS3 media backup, it’s a solid choice.
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Key Features
- Ultra-compact design for portability.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector.
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports.
- Ready for travel: IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, 1-meter drop-resistant.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Excellent for creative professionals (ProRes recording, hub functionality).
- Rugged and durable build for outdoor use.
- Fast speeds for compatible devices.
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Cons
- Expensive for a PS3-only application.
- Speeds heavily limited by PS3’s USB 2.0.
- Cannot be used as internal PS3 storage.
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User Impressions
Professionals highlight its durability, the convenience of the integrated hub, and its reliable performance for high-res video recording on iPhones and other cameras. Its compact size is also frequently praised.
4. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Essentially the same feature set as the 1TB version, the Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub simply offers more storage capacity. This increased space is ideal for those who need to store large amounts of data, especially high-resolution video footage or extensive media libraries. For PS3 users, the considerations remain the same: great as a durable, multi-purpose external drive, but its speed benefits won’t be realized with the PS3’s slower USB ports. The hub functionality is still a nice bonus for other devices.
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Key Features
- Ultra-compact for spontaneous creativity.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector.
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports for ultimate flexibility.
- Ready for travel: IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, 1-meter drop-resistant.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Higher capacity for extensive storage needs.
- Excellent for creative professionals due to hub and ProRes support.
- Rugged and durable, ideal for travel.
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Cons
- Premium price point.
- PS3’s USB 2.0 will heavily bottleneck its speed.
- Not suitable for internal PS3 upgrade.
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User Impressions
Similar to the 1TB model, users appreciate the ruggedness and the added utility of the hub. The larger 2TB capacity is a significant draw for those with extensive photo and video collections, making it a reliable workhorse.
5. Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
If extreme durability and high performance are your top priorities for an external drive, the Lexar Armor 700 is built for you. Boasting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance (up to 2000MB/s read/write) and an impressive IP66 rating for water and dust resistance, plus 3-meter drop protection, it’s ready for the harshest environments. While its speed will be severely capped by the PS3’s USB 2.0, its ruggedness means it can safely store PS3 game backups or media without worry, especially if you’re frequently moving it around. It’s a robust all-rounder, compatible with many gaming consoles.
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Key Features
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: 2000MB/s max read/write speeds.
- Rugged design: IP66 water/dust protection, 3-meter drop resistance.
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro).
- Unique Thermal Control Design for sustained performance.
- Wide compatibility: PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and all-in-one cable.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Extremely durable and rugged (IP66, 3m drop).
- Exceptional speeds for modern devices.
- Effective thermal management.
- Includes robust security features.
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Cons
- Premium price.
- Overkill performance for PS3’s USB 2.0.
- Not an internal PS3 upgrade option.
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User Impressions
Users are incredibly impressed with its durability, often sharing stories of accidental drops with no data loss. The speed is highly praised when connected to compatible devices, making it a favorite for professionals and adventurers alike.
6. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid
This is arguably the top contender if you’re looking for the Lexar best SSD for PS3 as an internal upgrade! The Lexar NS100 is a standard 2.5-inch SATA III SSD, making it a perfect fit for replacing your PS3’s aging internal hard drive. While its sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s are far beyond the PS3’s SATA II capabilities (which max out around 300MB/s), the significant improvement in random read/write speeds and much lower access times will translate into faster game loading, quicker menu navigation, and a more responsive system overall. It offers excellent value for a direct PS3 internal swap.
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Key Features
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups 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 (Terabytes Written) endurance rating.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Perfect form factor for internal PS3 upgrade (2.5-inch SATA).
- Significantly faster and more reliable than a stock PS3 HDD.
- Cost-effective way to boost PS3 performance.
- Durable due to no moving parts.
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Cons
- 256GB might be considered small for a large game library.
- PS3’s SATA II interface bottlenecks its full speed potential.
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User Impressions
Many users found this SSD to be a fantastic upgrade for older laptops and PCs, noting substantial improvements in boot times and application responsiveness. For PS3 users specifically, it’s often recommended for its compatibility and noticeable performance bump in games.
7. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD combines high performance with a sleek, ultra-thin design. Offering impressive USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write, it’s built for rapid data transfers on modern systems. Its wide compatibility includes PS4 and PS5, and implicitly other gaming consoles like the PS3 for external storage. While its raw speed won’t be fully utilized by the PS3’s USB 2.0, its elegant design, durability, and thermal control make it a premium choice for external media or game backups.
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Key Features
- 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).
- Wide compatibility: mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more.
- Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures.
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable and Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros
- Extremely fast for compatible devices.
- Very thin and stylish, highly portable.
- Good thermal management for sustained performance.
- Includes data encryption for security.
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Cons
- Speed heavily bottlenecked by PS3’s USB 2.0.
- Not an option for internal PS3 storage.
- Premium price point.
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User Impressions
Reviewers frequently commend the SL500 for its sleek aesthetics and impressive speed when connected to USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports. Its small footprint and robust build make it a popular choice for professionals needing fast, portable storage.
FAQ: All About Lexar SSDs for PS3
Upgrading your PlayStation 3 with an SSD can seem daunting, but it’s quite manageable. Here are some common questions answered to help you make the best decision for your Lexar best SSD for PS3 choice.
Q1: Can I really put a Lexar SSD in my PS3?
A: Yes, absolutely! Your PlayStation 3 uses a standard 2.5-inch SATA hard drive. Any 2.5-inch SATA SSD, like the Lexar NS100, can be installed as an internal upgrade. You’ll need to back up your data, install the new drive, and then reinstall the PS3’s firmware.
Q2: What’s the main benefit of using a Lexar SSD over a regular hard drive in a PS3?
A: The primary benefits are significantly faster game loading times, quicker system navigation (XMB), and improved overall responsiveness. SSDs also have no moving parts, making them more durable and quieter than traditional HDDs.
Q3: Will an SSD make my PS3 load games as fast as a PS4 or PS5?
A: No, not quite. While an SSD will definitely improve your PS3’s loading speeds, the PS3’s older hardware (SATA II interface, slower processor) will still be a bottleneck. You won’t achieve the lightning-fast load times seen on modern consoles. However, the improvement over its original HDD is still very noticeable and worthwhile.
Q4: Which Lexar SSD is best for an internal PS3 upgrade from this list?
A: Based on our reviews, the Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid is the most suitable option for an internal PS3 upgrade. Its 2.5-inch SATA form factor is a direct replacement for your PS3’s existing hard drive.
Q5: Can I use an external Lexar portable SSD with my PS3?
A: Yes, you can use external Lexar portable SSDs (like the ES3, Professional Go, Armor 700, or SL500) with your PS3 via its USB ports. However, the PS3 only supports USB 2.0, which means the blazing speeds of these external SSDs will be severely limited (around 60MB/s). They are best suited for storing media files, game backups, or as a general external drive, rather than directly playing games from them for performance benefits.
Q6: Do I need a specific capacity for my PS3 SSD?
A: The capacity you need depends on your game library. The original PS3 models came with HDDs as small as 20GB, while later models had up to 500GB. A 256GB or 500GB SSD is usually a good starting point for a moderate game collection. If you have a very large digital library, you might consider 1TB, but the cost-to-benefit ratio might not be as favorable for the PS3.
Q7: Is it difficult to install a Lexar SSD in a PS3?
A: The installation process is relatively straightforward. You’ll need a screwdriver, the new SSD, and a USB stick to reinstall the PS3 firmware. There are many helpful video guides available online that walk you through each step. Always remember to back up your PS3 data before starting the upgrade!
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 3 with an SSD is a fantastic way to extend its lifespan and improve your gaming experience. While many Lexar SSDs offer cutting-edge performance, it’s important to match the right drive to your PS3’s capabilities. For an internal upgrade, the Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid stands out as the most appropriate and beneficial choice, offering noticeable speed improvements within the PS3’s limitations.
For external storage, any of the portable Lexar SSDs can work, but their raw speed will be capped by the PS3’s USB 2.0 ports. Always consider your primary use case – whether it’s an internal boost for your favorite classics or simply robust external storage – when choosing the Lexar best SSD for PS3 that’s right for you. Happy gaming!