As a video editor, you know that time is money, and waiting for files to transfer or projects to render can be incredibly frustrating. The right storage solution isn’t just a convenience; it’s a critical tool that can make or break your post-production workflow. That’s where a high-performance SSD comes in, especially when dealing with massive 4K or even 8K video files. Lexar, a trusted name in flash memory, offers a range of solid-state drives that are perfect for content creators.
But with so many options, how do you pick the Lexar best SSD for editing video? Don’t sweat it! We’ve meticulously reviewed seven top Lexar SSDs, breaking down their features, pros, and cons to help you find the perfect match for your video editing needs. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring YouTuber, upgrading your storage to one of these powerhouse drives will undoubtedly supercharge your creative process.
Let’s dive in and find the ultimate Lexar best SSD for editing video that fits your unique workflow!
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re building or upgrading a desktop editing rig or a high-performance laptop, the Lexar NM790 is a true game-changer. This internal NVMe SSD leverages PCIe Gen4 technology to deliver blistering speeds, making short work of even the most demanding video editing tasks. Imagine loading massive project files in a flash, or rendering complex sequences without a hitch. Its low power consumption is a bonus, keeping your system cool and efficient while providing exceptional endurance for years of heavy use.
Key Features:
– 2TB capacity for ample project storage.
– Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
– 1500TBW (Terabytes Written) for superb durability.
– 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 for expanded game storage.
– Single-sided NVMe SSD is perfect for laptops.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast read/write speeds significantly reduce loading and rendering times.
– Excellent endurance rating ensures longevity for heavy video workloads.
– Energy-efficient design helps reduce heat and power consumption.
– Great for internal workstation or laptop upgrades.
– Compatible with PS5 for versatile use.
Cons:
– Internal drive, not suitable for external, portable use.
– Requires a motherboard with a PCIe Gen4 M.2 slot to achieve full speed.
User Impressions:
Editors rave about the NM790’s raw speed, often noting how it drastically cuts down on project load times and file transfers. Many consider it an outstanding value, offering top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance without breaking the bank, making it a strong contender for the Lexar best SSD for editing video if you’re looking for an internal solution.
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
For the video editor who’s always on the move, this Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD is a dream come true. Its ultra-compact design means you can toss it in your bag and forget it, while the integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports transforms your mobile editing setup. Imagine shooting Apple ProRes footage directly to the drive from your iPhone, then instantly offloading it or continuing your edit on a laptop without cable clutter. It’s designed for seamless 4K recording and swift backups, ensuring you never miss a beat, no matter where creativity strikes.
Key Features:
– 1TB capacity, perfect for portable projects.
– Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability.
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for secure connection).
– Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage directly.
– Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters/cables for setup flexibility.
– Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for 4K recording.
– IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Exceptional portability with an integrated hub for convenience.
– Ideal for direct recording of Apple ProRes footage, especially from iPhones.
– Rugged design ensures durability in various environments.
– Good speeds for portable 4K video editing and quick transfers.
– Reduces cable clutter with its unique plug-and-play design.
Cons:
– Speeds are not as fast as internal NVMe drives.
– “Wireless” Type-C implies a direct plug-in rather than a traditional cable connection, which might feel less secure for some.
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise its innovative hub design and rugged build quality. iPhone 15 Pro users especially appreciate its ability to record ProRes footage directly, highlighting its utility for mobile content creation. It’s a favorite for its versatility and compact form factor.
Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
The Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD offers a fantastic balance of speed, capacity, and durability for video editors who need reliable external storage. With speeds up to 1050MB/s, it’s significantly faster than traditional hard drives, slashing transfer times for large video files and providing instant storage expansion. What makes it stand out is its robust thermal management system, featuring built-in graphite sheets to keep it cool during intense data transfers, ensuring consistent performance. Plus, it’s built to withstand accidental drops, making it a trustworthy companion for everyday editing and on-location shoots.
Key Features:
– 2TB storage capacity for extensive video libraries.
– Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, 9.5X faster than HDDs.
– Built-in, double-layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation.
– Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for increased durability.
– Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable.
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
– Access to Lexar Recovery Tool for accidentally deleted files.
Pros:
– Excellent speed for external drive, ideal for fast backups and project transfers.
– Superior heat dissipation maintains performance during long operations.
– High drop resistance makes it robust for fieldwork and daily use.
– Wide compatibility with various devices (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone).
– Data encryption and recovery tools add extra value and peace of mind.
Cons:
– Not as fast as portable SSDs utilizing USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 or internal NVMe drives.
– While durable, it’s not rated for dust or water resistance like some other portable options.
User Impressions:
Many reviewers appreciate its consistent performance and how cool it stays even during prolonged transfers. Its solid build and included security features are also frequently highlighted, making it a reliable choice for editors seeking dependable external storage.
Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
When your video editing demands both extreme speed and uncompromising toughness, the Lexar Armor 700 Portable SSD is your go-to. This drive is a powerhouse, boasting incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s – perfect for handling demanding high-resolution footage. But its true superpower lies in its ruggedness: IP66 rated for dust and water protection, and capable of shrugging off 3-meter drops. Whether you’re filming in the desert or editing in a bustling studio, its unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal performance without overheating. For iPhone 15 Pro users, it’s a revelation, supporting direct Apple ProRes recording in up to 4K 60FPS. This is arguably the Lexar best SSD for editing video if you need robust, top-tier portable performance.
Key Features:
– 2TB capacity for substantial portable storage.
– Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance (2000MB/s max read/write).
– IP66 rated for water and dust protection.
– Rugged design withstands up to 3-meter drops.
– Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max).
– Unique Thermal Control Design for consistent optimal temperatures.
– Wide compatibility (PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles).
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption.
– Comes with an all-in-one Type-C and USB-A cable.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Phenomenal portable speeds drastically cut down transfer times for large files.
– Extremely durable with IP66 rating and high drop resistance, ideal for extreme environments.
– Excellent for direct Apple ProRes recording with compatible iPhones, streamlining fieldwork.
– Consistent performance due to advanced thermal management.
– Broad compatibility and strong data security features.
Cons:
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 compatible port to achieve maximum speeds.
– Magnetic ring for iPhone is sold separately.
User Impressions:
Editors are consistently amazed by the Armor 700’s speed and its ability to withstand harsh conditions. Its direct ProRes recording capability with the iPhone 15 Pro is a particular highlight for mobile filmmakers, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier portable editing companion.
Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This is the 2TB version of the incredibly versatile Professional Go Portable SSD with an integrated hub, offering even more space for your creative endeavors. Like its 1TB counterpart, it’s designed for unparalleled portability and flexibility. Its unique wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector simplifies your setup, freeing you from cable clutter. The standout feature remains its ability to capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage, making it an indispensable tool for filmmakers and videographers. With 2TB of space, you can record longer sessions and carry more projects, all while enjoying blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s. It’s also built tough, ready for travel with IP65 dust and water resistance, plus drop protection.
Key Features:
– Generous 2TB capacity for extensive project storage.
– Ultra-compact design for maximum portability.
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector for convenience (ensure firm insertion).
– Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease.
– Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus included adapters and cables.
– Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording.
– IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Ample 2TB capacity for larger video projects on the go.
– Highly portable with integrated hub, ideal for mobile editing and shooting.
– Excellent for direct Apple ProRes recording, especially with compatible iPhones.
– Robust build quality provides peace of mind during travel and fieldwork.
– Good speeds for 4K workflows and quick backups.
Cons:
– Speeds, while good for portable, don’t match internal NVMe or USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives.
– The direct Type-C plug-in can feel less secure than a traditional cable for some users.
User Impressions:
Users frequently highlight the convenience of the integrated hub and the generous 2TB capacity for storing multiple projects. Its ruggedness and ease of use with mobile devices, especially for ProRes recording, are consistently praised, making it a top choice for mobile and field video editors.
Lexar 2TB NM1090 w/HeatSink SSD PCIe Gen5x4 NVMe M.2 2280
For the ultimate, no-holds-barred video editing workstation, look no further than the Lexar NM1090. This PCIe Gen5x4 NVMe SSD is a beast, pushing the boundaries of speed with an astonishing 12000MB/s read and 11000MB/s write. That’s nearly twice as fast as PCIe 4.0 drives, making it an absolute powerhouse for editing 8K footage, complex VFX, and massive projects that chew through storage. Its unique, potent heatsink with a fan and RGB lighting isn’t just for show; it actively keeps this drive cool under extreme load, ensuring sustained peak performance. If you want the absolute fastest internal storage to future-proof your editing rig, this is undoubtedly the Lexar best SSD for editing video in terms of raw power.
Key Features:
– 2TB capacity for high-end editing projects.
– Blazing-fast PCIe 5.0 speeds: up to 12000MB/s read, 11000MB/s write.
– Nearly 2x faster than PCIe 4.0 drives.
– Unique and potent heatsink features a heat-blasting fan plus bright RGB lighting.
– DRAM-based with SLC dynamic cache for improved performance and reduced latency.
– Supports Microsoft DirectStorage.
– Compatible with Intel 13th/14th gen and AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs.
– Lexar DiskMaster disk management tool (coming 2024) for optimization.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Unrivaled, cutting-edge speeds for the most demanding video editing workflows.
– Active heatsink with fan ensures optimal thermal performance under heavy load.
– DRAM-based design provides exceptional responsiveness and longevity.
– Future-proof storage for next-generation editing software and resolutions.
– Ideal for high-end gaming rigs that double as editing workstations.
Cons:
– Requires a compatible PCIe Gen5 motherboard and CPU (Intel 13th/14th gen or AMD Ryzen 7000 series).
– Internal drive only, not portable.
– The fan on the heatsink might add a minimal amount of noise (though usually negligible).
User Impressions:
Early adopters and power users are blown away by the NM1090’s insane speeds, reporting significantly faster render times and near-instantaneous project loading. The active cooling is a major plus, keeping temperatures in check even during prolonged, intense operations. It’s seen as the ultimate upgrade for professional video editing workstations.
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD
The Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is another fantastic portable option, combining high-speed data transfer with an incredibly sleek and compact design. While the 2TB version offers more space, this 1TB model is perfect for those who prioritize extreme portability without sacrificing speed. Weighing only 42g and just 10.5mm thick, it’s smaller than a credit card and effortlessly slips into any pocket. It delivers impressive read/write speeds of up to 1050MB/s and 1000MB/s, making it excellent for quick file transfers, mobile backups, and even direct editing of lighter video projects. Its wide compatibility with iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, and gaming consoles makes it a versatile tool for any video editor who needs reliable storage on the go.
Key Features:
– 1TB capacity, highly portable for essential projects.
– High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
– Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
– On The Go: Thin, stylish, durable metal design; 42g weight, 10.5mm thick.
– Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
– Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
– Note: Magsafe is not available in this version.
Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and compact design, making it ultra-portable.
– Good speeds for everyday video editing tasks, quick transfers, and mobile use.
– Wide range of compatibility with modern devices, including iPhone 15.
– Durable metal construction.
– Data security with 256-bit AES encryption.
Cons:
– 1TB might be limiting for larger 4K/8K video projects.
– Not as rugged as the Armor 700 or drop-resistant as the 2TB ES3.
– Performance may be lower on systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2.
User Impressions:
Reviewers frequently praise its incredibly small size and light weight, making it a joy to carry. Its plug-and-play simplicity and reliable performance for everyday tasks, especially with iPhone 15 users, are often highlighted. It’s considered a solid, stylish choice for convenient, portable storage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lexar SSDs for Video Editing
Q1: What makes Lexar SSDs a good choice for video editing?
A1: Lexar SSDs offer superior data transfer speeds compared to traditional HDDs, which is crucial for video editing where you’re constantly moving, reading, and writing large files. Their drives also boast good durability, advanced thermal management (in some models), and a variety of form factors (internal NVMe, portable external) to suit different editing setups. This combination of speed, reliability, and versatility makes them ideal for demanding video workflows.
Q2: What’s the difference between internal and external SSDs for video editing?
A2: Internal SSDs (like M.2 NVMe drives) are installed directly inside your computer. They typically offer the fastest speeds (especially PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 models) and are best for your operating system, editing software, and current projects that require peak performance. External SSDs are portable and connect via USB. They’re excellent for project backups, expanding storage, transferring files between machines, or editing on the go. While fast, external drives generally won’t match the absolute peak speeds of high-end internal NVMe drives.
Q3: Do I really need a PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 SSD for video editing?
A3: For casual video editing or 1080p projects, a good SATA SSD or even a fast external USB 3.2 Gen 2 SSD might suffice. However, for 4K, 8K, or highly complex projects with multiple layers and effects, a PCIe Gen4 or especially a Gen5 NVMe SSD can dramatically improve load times, rendering performance, and overall responsiveness. It significantly reduces bottlenecks, making your workflow much smoother and more efficient.
Q4: What capacity SSD is best for video editing?
A4: This depends on your project sizes and volume. For individual editors working on 1080p or occasional 4K projects, 1TB can be a good starting point for active projects. However, for professional 4K/8K editing, larger capacities like 2TB, 4TB, or even more are highly recommended. Video files are enormous, and having ample space for raw footage, project files, caches, and exports prevents constant data management headaches.
Q5: How important is “write speed” for video editing?
A5: Write speed is incredibly important! When you’re importing footage, rendering exports, caching files, or saving your project, the drive’s write speed determines how quickly those operations complete. A slow write speed can create significant bottlenecks, leading to longer render times and general system sluggishness. Always prioritize SSDs with high sustained write speeds for a more efficient video editing experience.
Q6: Can I edit 4K video directly from a portable SSD?
A6: Yes, many modern portable SSDs, especially those with USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Gen 2×2 speeds (like the Lexar Armor 700 or Professional Go series), are fast enough to handle 4K video editing directly. However, for complex 4K or 8K projects with multiple tracks and effects, an internal NVMe drive will generally offer a more fluid experience due to its higher sustained bandwidth and lower latency. For fieldwork or on-the-go editing, a fast portable SSD is an excellent solution.
Q7: What does TBW mean for an SSD?
A7: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance or lifespan. It indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the drive before its reliability begins to degrade. For video editing, where you’re constantly writing and rewriting large files, a higher TBW rating is beneficial, as it means the drive is rated for a longer lifespan under heavy usage.