Upgrading to a new SSD is one of the best ways to breathe new life into your computer. The speed boost is incredible, but the thought of moving all your precious data can feel daunting. That’s where Lexar, a trusted name in flash memory solutions, steps in. While the core “transferring to a new SSD” often involves third-party cloning software, Lexar provides the essential, high-performance storage devices and sometimes even handy companion apps for transferring to a new SSD that make the entire process smoother, faster, and more reliable.
Whether you’re looking for an external drive to temporarily house your data, a lightning-fast portable SSD to be your new everyday companion, or even robust memory cards for media backup during a system overhaul, Lexar has a solution. We’ve rounded up 7 of the best Lexar products that are perfect companions for your data migration journey, ensuring your files, photos, and applications get to their new home safely and efficiently. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Data Migration and Lexar’s Role
When you’re transferring to a new SSD, you’re essentially moving your operating system, applications, and all your personal files from an old drive to a brand-new one. This often involves “cloning” your old drive, creating an exact copy. Lexar’s high-speed external and portable SSDs are perfect for this, either as a temporary backup destination or even as the target drive itself if you’re upgrading an internal drive and need an external solution first. Plus, some Lexar products come with specific Lexar best apps for transferring to a new SSD, mainly for mobile backup and management, which are incredibly useful for ensuring all your data is accounted for.
Our Top 7 Lexar Solutions for Data Migration
Here are the Lexar products that stand out for their ability to facilitate smooth data transfers and provide reliable storage during your SSD upgrade.
1. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
This isn’t just an external SSD; it’s a versatile, high-speed powerhouse designed for creators and tech enthusiasts alike. What truly makes the ES5 Magnetic External SSD stand out for data transfer is its incredibly fast read/write speeds combined with the inclusion of the Lexar App. This app isn’t just for expanding mobile storage; it also enables easy auto-backup, making it a fantastic tool for securing your media before, during, or after a major system migration. Its robust, magnetic design also means it’s incredibly portable and resilient.
Key Features:
– Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write speeds for rapid file transfers.
– MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to smartphones.
– Supports recording in Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
– Includes free access to the Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion.
– IP65 rated for dust and water resistance, and drop resistant up to 3M.
– Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with a cable organizer/lanyard.
– Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures and sustained high performance.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast transfer speeds significantly cut down migration time.
– Included Lexar App adds value for mobile users and backups.
– Extremely durable and resistant to environmental factors.
– Magnetic design offers unique convenience for specific devices.
Cons:
– Performance might be lower on systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
– MagSafe feature is specific to compatible devices, not universal.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise its exceptional speed and robust build quality, finding it perfect for large media files and quick backups. The magnetic attachment is a loved feature for phone users, simplifying mobile data management. Many find the inclusion of the Lexar App a helpful bonus for seamless integration with their mobile workflow.
2. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible
The Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD is a champion for serious data movers, offering a massive 2TB capacity paired with cutting-edge USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance. When you’re dealing with extensive system backups or large game libraries during an SSD upgrade, this drive’s ability to hit 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write speeds is a game-changer. Its slim, durable metal design means you can easily carry your entire digital life, and the included DataShield 256-bit AES encryption adds a crucial layer of security, something you’ll appreciate during sensitive data transfers.
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/Pro Max.
– Wide compatibility with mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
– 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:
– Exceptional speed for very large file transfers and system backups.
– Huge 2TB capacity can store multiple system images.
– DataShield encryption provides excellent security for sensitive data.
– Broad compatibility makes it a versatile tool for various devices.
Cons:
– Full speed requires a system with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support.
– While thin, it’s still an external device to manage.
User Impressions:
Customers frequently highlight the SL500’s incredible speed and compact form factor. The 2TB capacity is a major draw for professionals and gamers alike, while the encryption software gives peace of mind. Many appreciate its robust feel and universal compatibility.
3. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible
Just like its 2TB sibling, the Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD offers the same phenomenal speed and robust features in a slightly smaller, more budget-friendly capacity. For many users, 1TB is ample space for cloning a primary drive or backing up essential files before transferring to a new SSD. It retains the lightning-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds, the sleek metal design, and the invaluable Lexar DataShield encryption. It’s an excellent choice if you need top-tier performance and security without the maximum capacity of the 2TB model.
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 easily fits in your pocket.
– Supports Apple Pro Res recording up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max.
– Wide compatibility with mobile devices, laptops, cameras, as well as Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
– Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures.
– 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:
– High-speed performance significantly reduces data transfer times.
– Portable and durable, ideal for on-the-go data management.
– DataShield encryption provides robust security.
– Excellent balance of capacity, speed, and price for many users.
Cons:
– Still requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for peak performance.
– 1TB might be limiting for extremely large system backups or archival.
User Impressions:
Reviewers commend its compact size and impressive speed, noting its effectiveness for both quick file transfers and more substantial data backups. The security features are a recurring positive, and its build quality inspires confidence for daily use.
4. Lexar 128GB Blue Micro SD Card Up to 160MB/s, microSDXC
While not a direct “new SSD” in itself, the Lexar 128GB Blue Micro SD Card is an unsung hero for auxiliary data transfer, especially for mobile devices and cameras. When you’re preparing for a full system migration, offloading photos, videos, or even smaller app data from your phone onto a reliable memory card can free up space on your main drive, making the overall transfer process cleaner. Its A2 rating ensures swift app launches if used as expanded mobile storage, and its extreme durability means your temporary backups are safe.
Key Features:
– Blazing Fast Data Transfers: UHS-I tech, up to 160MB/s read speeds.
– Premium Media Support: V30 rating, enables seamless 4K video recording.
– A2-Rated for Swift App Launches: Supercharges smartphone apps.
– Built to Handle Even Harsh Conditions: Tested against 8 proof points (temp, water, X-ray, vibration, magnetism, shock, drop, wear resistance).
– Long-Term Warranty & Data Recovery: 10-year limited warranty, lifetime access to Lexar Recovery Tool.
Pros:
– Excellent for offloading media from phones/cameras before a large migration.
– A2 rating enhances mobile app performance.
– Extremely durable and resistant to various environmental hazards.
– Lexar Recovery Tool adds peace of mind for accidental deletions.
Cons:
– Not suitable for full system OS migration due to capacity/interface.
– Peak read speeds require specific Lexar card readers.
User Impressions:
Many find this card indispensable for their drones, action cameras, and smartphones, praising its reliability and speed for media capture and playback. The robust nature and the included data recovery tool are frequently mentioned as significant advantages.
5. Lexar Dual Drive USB-C & USB-A 128GB (2 Pack)
For quick transfers of individual files or smaller folders between devices, especially across different port types, the Lexar Dual Drive USB-C & USB-A is a fantastic option. This 2-pack offers ultimate convenience, allowing you to easily move documents, photos, or small applications from your old PC (USB-A) to your new laptop (USB-C), or even to an Android phone. It’s not for a full system clone, but it’s perfect for cherry-picking essential files you want to keep separate or transfer manually. The built-in Lexar DataShield adds a layer of security for these smaller, but often critical, transfers.
Key Features:
– 2-in-1 Flash Drive for Your USB Type-C and Type-A devices.
– Quickly Transfer Your Favorite Content.
– Stylish Metal Housing and Swivel Design.
– Secure Your Files with Lexar DataShield.
– Compatible with Android, PC, and Mac Systems.
Pros:
– Versatile dual-connector design for broad compatibility.
– Convenient for transferring smaller batches of files between varied devices.
– DataShield encryption protects sensitive individual files.
– Durable metal housing and swivel design.
Cons:
– Capacity is too small for full system backups or large migrations.
– Speed is generally lower than dedicated portable SSDs.
User Impressions:
Users love the convenience of the dual connectors, making it easy to share files between their phones, tablets, and computers. The compact design and durability are also highly rated, with the DataShield software being a welcome security feature for their portable data.
6. Lexar E-Series 128GB Micro SD Card 2 Pack, microSDXC
Similar to the Blue Micro SD card, the Lexar E-Series 128GB Micro SD Card (in a convenient 2-pack!) provides excellent auxiliary storage for offloading data. When you’re deep into an SSD migration, having extra memory cards to quickly back up drone footage, action camera clips, or even documents from your tablet can simplify the main transfer. With UHS-I technology and A1-rated performance, it’s fast enough for media and application loading, and its ultra-durable nature ensures your temporary backups are safe from the elements.
Key Features:
– Wide Compatibility: Ideal for smartphones, tablets, Drones, action cameras, GoPro.
– 4K Ultra UHD: Captures, plays back, and transfers 1080p Full-HD, 3D, and 4K UHD video.
– High Speed Memory Card: UHS-I technology for up to 100MB/s transfer speed; A1-rated for faster app loading.
– Multi Capacity: 128GB supports hours of 4K/1080P video, thousands of photos or songs.
– Ultra Durable: Waterproof, temperature-proof, shockproof, magnetic-proof.
– 10-year limited warranty for card and one-year limited warranty for adapter.
– Includes two 128GB Micro SD Cards and one SD Adapter.
Pros:
– Excellent value with a 2-pack, providing ample auxiliary storage.
– Highly compatible with a range of mobile and media devices.
– Durable and resilient against various environmental stressors.
– A1 rating improves app performance on supported devices.
Cons:
– Not designed for primary system migration due to capacity and form factor.
– Actual speeds may vary depending on the host device.
User Impressions:
Customers appreciate the value of getting two cards in one pack. They find them reliable for expanding phone storage, recording drone footage, and using in action cameras. The durability and compatibility are often highlighted as key benefits.
7. Lexar Blue Series High-Performance 800x SDHC/SDXC UHS-I
While primarily marketed for professional photographers and videographers, the Lexar Blue Series High-Performance 800x SDHC/SDXC card can play a crucial role in data migration by providing expandable storage for devices that use full-sized SD cards, like cameras or laptops with SD card slots. If you’re moving to a new SSD in a laptop, you might want to offload photos or other large files onto an SD card to streamline the main transfer. Its high read speeds (up to 120MB/s) and robust build ensure quick, reliable transfers and secure temporary storage for your valuable media files.
Key Features:
– Expand Your Device’s Storage: Capacities from 32GB to 256GB for photos, videos, and files.
– Increased Productivity: Read speeds up to 120MB/s for quicker file transfers and loading times.
– Versatile Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of SDHC and SDXC devices (cameras, camcorders, laptops).
– Durable and Reliable: Withstands extreme temperatures (0°C to 70°C operating, -25°C to 85°C storage).
– Capture Full HD Video: Class 10, U1/U3, and V10/V30 speed ratings for smooth Full HD video recording.
Pros:
– Excellent for offloading media from cameras or laptops before a main SSD migration.
– High read speeds make accessing backed-up files quick.
– Broad compatibility with SD-enabled devices.
– Highly durable, ensuring data integrity in varying conditions.
Cons:
– Not suitable for operating system or large application migrations.
– Requires an SD card slot or adapter for use with most computers.
User Impressions:
Photographers and videographers highly recommend this card for its consistent performance and reliability. They find it great for continuous shooting and capturing high-resolution video. Users also appreciate its sturdy build and the peace of mind it offers in diverse shooting environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What exactly are “Lexar best apps for transferring to a new SSD”?
A1: While Lexar primarily focuses on high-performance storage hardware like SSDs and memory cards, some of their products, like the ES5 Magnetic External SSD, come with companion Lexar Apps. These apps are generally designed for easy auto-backup of media, expanding mobile device storage, or managing files on the Lexar drive, which indirectly supports the data migration process by helping you secure your existing data before a major transfer. For full system cloning, you’d typically use third-party cloning software with a Lexar SSD as the source or destination.
Q2: Can I use these Lexar portable SSDs to clone my entire operating system to a new internal SSD?
A2: Absolutely! High-speed Lexar portable SSDs like the SL500 series are perfect for this. You would connect both your old internal drive (via a SATA-to-USB adapter if needed) and the new internal SSD (also via an adapter if you only have one internal bay, or install it directly) to your computer. Then, using third-party disk cloning software (like Macrium Reflect, EaseUS Todo Backup, or Clonezilla), you can clone your old drive’s contents to the new SSD, often using the Lexar portable SSD as an intermediary backup drive if necessary.
Q3: Do Lexar external SSDs come with their own cloning software?
A3: Most Lexar external SSDs don’t bundle full-fledged disk cloning software for operating system migration directly in the package. However, they often include valuable utilities like Lexar DataShield for 256-bit AES encryption (found in the SL500 series and Dual Drives) or access to the Lexar App for mobile backup (like with the ES5). For cloning your OS, you’ll likely need to download a reputable third-party cloning tool.
Q4: What’s the benefit of using a Lexar portable SSD for data migration compared to a traditional HDD?
A4: Speed, speed, speed! Lexar portable SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). This dramatically reduces the time it takes to backup, clone, or transfer large amounts of data during an SSD upgrade. They’re also more durable due to the lack of moving parts, more compact, and generally more power-efficient.
Q5: What should I consider when choosing a Lexar product for transferring to a new SSD?
A5: Consider the amount of data you need to transfer (capacity), the speed you require (check read/write speeds and USB versions), the type of devices you’ll be transferring from/to (compatibility), and whether you need additional features like encryption or mobile app integration. For a full OS migration, a high-capacity, high-speed portable SSD like the SL500 series is ideal. For smaller, more frequent transfers between varied devices, a dual-connector flash drive might be better.
Q6: Are the Lexar Micro SD cards suitable for storing applications or just media files?
A6: Lexar Micro SD cards with an A1 or A2 rating (like the Blue Micro SD Card or E-Series) are specifically designed to handle application performance, meaning they can store and run apps from your smartphone or tablet much more smoothly than cards without this rating. However, for a PC or laptop’s main operating system and core applications, an internal SSD will always provide superior performance.
Q7: How do I ensure data integrity during a large transfer to a new SSD?
A7: Always ensure your Lexar drive and the target SSD are properly connected and powered. Use reliable, up-to-date cloning software. Before starting, close all unnecessary applications on your source computer. It’s also a good practice to verify the cloned data afterward if your cloning software offers the option. And, of course, having a backup (perhaps on one of these Lexar external drives!) before initiating any major system change is always the safest bet.