Is your computer crawling along? Tired of waiting ages for applications to load or your system to boot up? It sounds like you’re ready for an upgrade, and a Solid State Drive (SSD) is often the best bang for your buck. When it comes to reliable and affordable storage, Lexar is a brand that frequently pops up. If you’re specifically looking for the Lexar best 250GB SSD for the money, you’re in the right place. A 250GB SSD is a fantastic sweet spot for many users, offering enough space for your operating system, essential programs, and some important files, all while keeping the cost down.
While our main focus is on helping you find the ideal 250GB Lexar SSD that offers great value, we’ve also included a couple of other fantastic Lexar options and a strong alternative brand in similar capacities. This ensures you can make the most informed decision, whether you stick to 250GB or decide a little more (or a different form factor) might suit your needs even better. Let’s dive into our top picks and find the perfect SSD to breathe new life into your system!
1. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
This is likely the closest you’ll get to the Lexar best 250GB SSD for the money in the traditional SATA III form factor. The NS100 series from Lexar is designed to be an accessible and straightforward upgrade for older laptops and desktops still relying on sluggish hard disk drives. It promises noticeable improvements in boot times, application loading, and overall system responsiveness, transforming your daily computing experience without breaking the bank. It’s built for reliability, ensuring your data is safe with no moving parts.
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Key Features:
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop 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 (Terabytes Written) for good endurance.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for a significant performance boost.
- Easy to install in most standard 2.5-inch drive bays.
- Durable and reliable with no mechanical components.
- Good entry-level read speeds for everyday tasks.
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Cons:
- SATA III interface is slower than NVMe alternatives.
- Write speeds aren’t specified but are typically lower than read speeds for this class.
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User Impressions: Customers frequently praise the NS100 for its ease of installation and the dramatic speed improvements it brings to older systems. Many note that their once-sluggish computers now feel brand new, making it a highly recommended upgrade for budget-conscious users.
2. SANDISK SSD Plus 250GB Internal Solid State Drive – SATA…
While not a Lexar product, the SanDisk SSD Plus 250GB is an excellent alternative that perfectly aligns with the “250GB SSD for the money” aspect. SanDisk is a reputable brand known for its storage solutions, and this drive delivers solid performance for its price point. It’s a direct competitor to the Lexar NS100, offering similar benefits like rapid boots and quick application launches, making it a strong contender if you’re open to exploring options beyond Lexar.
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Key Features:
- Easy upgrade for fast boots and application launches.
- Sequential Read speeds of up to 545MB/s.
- Sequential Write speeds of up to 515MB/s (for 1-2TB models, typically scales down for smaller capacities).
- Shock-resistant for proven durability – even if you drop your computer.
- High capacities (though we’re focused on the 250GB) for applications and large media files.
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Pros:
- Reliable brand with a proven track record.
- Good read speeds, comparable to Lexar NS100.
- Explicit mention of write speeds (though for higher capacities) indicates decent performance.
- Enhanced durability due to its solid-state nature.
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Cons:
- SATA III interface, not as fast as NVMe.
- The 250GB specific write speed isn’t detailed, which can be a minor ambiguity.
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User Impressions: Users often highlight the SanDisk SSD Plus for its hassle-free installation and immediate performance boost. It’s a popular choice for budget upgrades, with many reporting significant improvements in system responsiveness and boot times, making it a reliable and affordable pick.
3. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
If you’re on an extremely tight budget or only need the bare minimum for your operating system and a few essential programs, the Lexar 128GB NS100 offers an even more affordable entry point into the world of SSDs. It retains all the core benefits of its larger 256GB sibling – faster performance, improved reliability, and shock resistance – but in a smaller capacity. While not a 250GB drive, it’s a Lexar option that still aims to give you solid value, primarily if space isn’t your main concern.
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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.
- [128GB] 60TBW endurance rating.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Very budget-friendly way to get SSD speed.
- Ideal for systems where only the OS and critical software need acceleration.
- Durable and silent operation.
- Same reliable performance as the larger NS100 series for read-intensive tasks.
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Cons:
- Limited storage space may not be enough for many users.
- Lower TBW rating means less total data can be written over its lifespan compared to larger drives (though still ample for most).
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User Impressions: Buyers of the 128GB NS100 are typically thrilled with the transformation it brings to their old, slow machines. They appreciate the low cost barrier to entry for an SSD and the fact that even this smaller drive makes a noticeable difference in daily usage speed.
4. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
While you’re hunting for the Lexar best 250GB SSD for the money, it’s worth considering if a slightly larger capacity, like this 512GB NS100, might offer even better long-term value. With double the space of the 256GB version, you get more room for games, applications, and media files without a huge jump in price. It provides the same dependable performance and easy upgrade path as the other NS100 drives but with the added convenience of ample storage, making it a compelling option for those who can stretch their budget a little further.
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Key Features:
- Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads.
- Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s (a slight bump from smaller capacities).
- Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives.
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts.
- [512GB] 240TBW endurance, offering great longevity.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of price and capacity.
- Higher read speeds compared to the smaller NS100 models.
- Generous 240TBW rating for extended usage.
- Still uses the versatile 2.5-inch SATA form factor.
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Cons:
- Still limited by the SATA III interface compared to NVMe drives.
- Slightly more expensive than the 250GB options, naturally.
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User Impressions: Users upgrading to the 512GB NS100 are consistently impressed by the performance boost and the added convenience of more storage space. They often mention that it’s a “set it and forget it” upgrade that delivers reliable speed and plenty of room for their needs.
5. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
Okay, this one is a bit of a departure from an internal 250GB SSD, but if you’re looking for Lexar’s “best” in terms of versatility and cutting-edge tech, this 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD is a standout. It’s not just a storage device; it’s a portable hub designed for creators and mobile professionals. While it’s 1TB, not 250GB, and external, its unique features like the integrated Type-C hub and robust build quality offer a different kind of “value” – the value of convenience, speed, and multi-functionality on the go.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for portability and spontaneous creativity.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled cables.
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage directly from compatible devices.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters/cables for ultimate flexibility.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for 4K recording and swift backups.
- Ready for travel – dust-proof, water-resistant (IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Incredibly fast read/write speeds, ideal for large files and video editing.
- Acts as a portable hub, simplifying mobile workflows.
- Rugged and durable build quality (IP65 rated).
- Excellent for content creators and professionals needing on-the-go storage and connectivity.
- Generous 1TB capacity.
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Cons:
- Much higher price point than internal SATA SSDs.
- Not an internal 250GB drive, so it doesn’t fit the primary search criteria directly.
- Specific features like wireless plug-and-play might require firm insertion for proper function.
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User Impressions: Professionals and content creators rave about the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD. They highlight its robust build, incredible speed for large video files, and the sheer convenience of the integrated hub, making it an indispensable tool for fieldwork and mobile editing.
6. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
If raw speed and future-proofing are more your priority than strictly finding a 250GB SSD, the Lexar 2TB NM790 NVMe SSD is a beast. This is where Lexar truly shines in the high-performance segment. It’s an internal drive, but an NVMe M.2, meaning it’s significantly faster than any SATA drive, perfect for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators. While it’s a 2TB drive (far beyond 250GB), it represents the peak of what Lexar offers in internal SSD performance, making it a compelling consideration if your budget allows for a substantial upgrade.
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Key Features:
- [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW.
- 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 speed and seamless performance.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Single-sided NVMe SSD is perfect for laptops.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds redefine system responsiveness and load times.
- Excellent power efficiency for a Gen4 NVMe drive.
- High endurance rating (1500TBW) ensures long-term reliability.
- Perfect for gaming, video editing, and demanding applications.
- PS5 compatible for expanded gaming storage.
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Cons:
- Significantly more expensive than SATA SSDs.
- Requires a compatible M.2 slot on your motherboard (check compatibility).
- Massive 2TB capacity is overkill if you only need 250GB.
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User Impressions: Gamers and tech enthusiasts are blown away by the NM790’s performance. They frequently comment on the instantaneous loading screens in games and the speed at which large files transfer, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier NVMe solution.
7. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible…
Rounding out our list is another fantastic Lexar portable SSD, the 2TB SL500. While once again not a 250GB internal drive, it represents incredible value for portable, high-speed storage, especially for Apple iPhone 15 Pro users and console gamers. Its sleek, thin design and impressive USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds make it a powerhouse for anyone needing fast, external storage. If you’re pondering what constitutes the “best” Lexar SSD for dynamic use cases beyond internal upgrades, this portable marvel definitely enters the conversation.
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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 Pro Res recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/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 even at top speeds.
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files.
- Product dimensions and weight: 3.3” x 2.1” x 0.3”; 0.095 lbs.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Exceptional portable speeds for large file transfers and direct video recording.
- Very compact and stylish design.
- Robust compatibility across a wide range of devices, including modern smartphones and game consoles.
- Built-in AES encryption for data security.
- Effective thermal management for consistent performance.
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Cons:
- Requires a device with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for maximum speed, otherwise performance will be lower.
- Higher price compared to internal SATA SSDs.
- 2TB capacity might be more than needed for some users.
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User Impressions: Users are highly impressed by the SL500’s compact size combined with its blistering speed. iPhone 15 Pro users, in particular, love its ability to record ProRes video directly, simplifying their workflow significantly. Its durable build and broad compatibility also receive high praise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I upgrade to an SSD from an HDD?
A1: Upgrading from a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD) to an SSD offers a dramatic boost in performance. SSDs have no moving parts, making them much faster for booting your operating system, loading applications, and transferring files. They are also more durable, produce less heat, and consume less power.
Q2: What does “250GB SSD for the money” really mean in terms of value?
A2: When we talk about “for the money,” we’re looking for the best balance of price, performance, and reliability for a given capacity. A 250GB/256GB SSD is often considered a sweet spot because it’s significantly cheaper than larger drives but still provides ample space for your operating system and essential software, giving you a noticeable speed upgrade without breaking the bank.
Q3: What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A3: SATA (Serial ATA) SSDs are typically 2.5-inch drives that connect via a SATA port and cable, offering speeds up to around 550MB/s. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs use the PCIe interface, often in an M.2 form factor, and are much faster, with speeds ranging from 2000MB/s to over 7000MB/s. NVMe is ideal for high-performance tasks like gaming and video editing, while SATA is a great cost-effective upgrade for general use.
Q4: Is a Lexar 256GB SSD big enough for my computer?
A4: For many users, a 256GB SSD is sufficient. It’s usually enough for the Windows or macOS operating system (which takes up about 20-30GB), plus a good selection of essential applications and some personal files. If you store a lot of large games, high-resolution photos, or videos, you might consider a 500GB or larger drive, or use a 256GB SSD in conjunction with a larger traditional HDD for mass storage.
Q5: What is TBW, and why is it important for an SSD?
A5: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance – how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it’s expected to fail. Higher TBW ratings generally mean a longer lifespan, especially for users who frequently write large amounts of data. For everyday users, even lower TBW ratings like 60TBW or 120TBW are more than enough for many years of typical use.
Q6: Can I install these SSDs in both laptops and desktops?
A6: Most 2.5-inch SATA SSDs (like the Lexar NS100 or SanDisk SSD Plus) are compatible with both laptops and desktops that have an available 2.5-inch drive bay and a SATA port. NVMe M.2 SSDs (like the Lexar NM790) require an M.2 slot on your motherboard, which is common in modern laptops and desktops. Portable SSDs are external and connect via USB, making them universally compatible with almost any device that has a USB port.
Q7: Are Lexar SSDs reliable?
A7: Yes, Lexar is a well-established brand in the memory and storage industry, known for producing reliable products. Their SSDs often come with decent warranties (3-5 years) and offer competitive performance for their price points, making them a trustworthy choice for many users looking for a good balance of value and dependability.