If you’re on the hunt for a Lexar best 50gb ssd for cheap, you’ve likely noticed that finding a 50GB solid-state drive can be a bit tricky these days. The truth is, 50GB SSDs are pretty rare in the current market. Manufacturers, including Lexar, typically start their SSD offerings at higher capacities like 128GB or 256GB, as these provide a much better balance of performance, storage space, and cost-effectiveness for users.
But don’t fret! If your goal is to find a reliable, budget-friendly Lexar SSD for light storage, system upgrades, or basic portable needs, you’re in the right place. Lexar is a well-respected brand in the memory and storage world, known for delivering dependable performance without breaking the bank.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 fantastic Lexar SSDs that offer incredible value. While a true Lexar best 50gb ssd for cheap might not be a standard offering, these alternatives provide compact, affordable, and high-performing storage solutions perfect for upgrading an old laptop, boosting a desktop, or carrying your essential files on the go. We’ll cover everything from internal drive upgrades to super-fast portable options. Let’s dive in and find your next solid-state storage solution!
Understanding Lexar’s Value for Money
Before we get into the reviews, it’s worth noting why Lexar stands out. They consistently offer competitive pricing on their solid-state drives, making high-speed storage accessible. Their products are generally known for good reliability and solid performance metrics, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to upgrade without spending a fortune. Whether you need an internal drive for a system boost or an external drive for portable data, Lexar usually has a cost-effective option.
Our Top 10 Affordable Lexar SSD Picks
Here are our selections for the best Lexar SSDs that offer great value, perfect for anyone who might have been looking for a 50GB option but needs a more practical, modern capacity.
1. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
This 128GB NS100 SSD is an excellent entry-level option, perfect for breathing new life into an older laptop or desktop. If you’re looking for the spirit of a Lexar best 50gb ssd for cheap – that is, an ultra-affordable system upgrade – this drive offers a significant performance boost over traditional hard drives at a very small price point. It’s ideal for a boot drive for Windows or a small Linux distribution, making your system feel snappier.
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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.
- [128GB] 60TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Very budget-friendly price point.
- Significant speed improvement over HDDs.
- Durable due to no moving parts.
- Easy to install in most 2.5-inch drive bays.
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Cons:
- Lower capacity limits its use to primary OS and a few applications.
- SATA III speeds are not as fast as NVMe, but still excellent for most users.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this drive for its noticeable speed improvements and incredible value for money, often recommending it as a cost-effective way to upgrade an aging computer.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
Stepping up slightly in capacity, the 256GB NS100 offers a bit more breathing room for your operating system, essential applications, and some personal files. It maintains the same impressive speed and reliability as its smaller sibling, making it a fantastic choice for a main boot drive for those seeking a practical and affordable storage upgrade. This is probably one of the sweet spots for budget-conscious buyers seeking efficient internal storage.
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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.
- [256GB] 120TBW endurance rating.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of capacity and price.
- Boosts system performance considerably.
- Robust and quiet operation.
- Good for general computing tasks and light gaming.
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Cons:
- Still uses SATA III interface, not the fastest available.
- May fill up quickly if you install many large games or applications.
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User Impressions: Customers love the bang for their buck, often highlighting how easy it is to install and the immediate performance gains, making their older systems feel like new again.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
For those who need more space but still want to keep costs down, the 512GB NS100 is a superb option. It’s ideal for users who want their OS, several important applications, and a decent library of photos or documents all on one fast drive. This capacity offers a great blend of speed, storage, and affordability, solidifying Lexar’s position for reliable, value-driven internal storage.
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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 rating.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Ample space for OS, software, and personal media.
- Excellent value for a half-terabyte SSD.
- Noticeable performance boost for everyday tasks.
- High durability and silent operation.
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Cons:
- Maxes out SATA III performance, so not for those needing NVMe speeds.
- Not suitable for extensive video editing libraries without additional storage.
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User Impressions: Many users find this 512GB model to be the perfect sweet spot for a main system drive, noting its consistent performance and great price. It’s a highly recommended upgrade for general use.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Moving into portable solutions, the 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD with an integrated hub is a creator’s dream. It’s incredibly versatile, offering not just blazing-fast external storage but also expanding your device’s connectivity with four USB Type-C ports. This compact powerhouse is perfect for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs fast, flexible storage on the go, especially for devices with limited ports.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for portability and spontaneous creativity.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for proper insertion).
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters and cables for ultimate flexibility.
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording.
- Ready for travel: dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for large file transfers and 4K recording.
- Built-in hub is a huge convenience for modern devices.
- Rugged design ensures durability in various environments.
- Excellent compatibility with creative workflows.
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Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic portable SSDs without a hub.
- Wireless Type-C connector might feel slightly less secure than a standard cable.
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User Impressions: Professionals rave about its speed and the convenience of the integrated hub, calling it an essential tool for on-location shoots and mobile workstations.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
For serious storage on the move, the Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD delivers impressive speed and robust features. This drive is designed for those who need to back up large amounts of data quickly or expand their device storage significantly. Its advanced thermal management and drop resistance make it a reliable partner for both everyday office use and more demanding scenarios.
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Key Features:
- 9.5X faster than hard disk drives with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion.
- Built-in, double-layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation.
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for excellent durability.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption and Lexar Recovery Tool.
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Pros:
- Very high transfer speeds for large files.
- Excellent heat management keeps performance consistent.
- Strong durability with drop resistance.
- Versatile compatibility with included cable.
- Added security with encryption software.
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Cons:
- Still a premium capacity, so not as “cheap” as smaller internal drives.
- While durable, not as rugged as some purpose-built field drives.
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User Impressions: Users highly recommend this drive for its blazing speeds and sturdy build, making it a go-to for photographers, videographers, and anyone needing large, fast, and secure portable storage.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Doubling the capacity of its 1TB counterpart, the 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub offers the same incredible versatility but with more space for your projects. This is ideal for professionals who work with massive files, multiple 4K video projects, or extensive photo libraries and need both rapid transfer speeds and expanded connectivity on location.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensure firm insertion).
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease.
- Portable SSD plus hub with four USB Type-C ports, adapters, and cables.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording.
- Ready for travel: dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Massive 2TB capacity for extensive creative projects.
- Unrivaled versatility with integrated USB-C hub.
- Exceptional speeds for professional media workflows.
- Robust build for field use.
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Cons:
- A significant investment, though justified by features.
- Connectivity requires a Type-C port on the host device.
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User Impressions: Creative professionals laud this drive for its combination of huge storage, speed, and the incredibly useful integrated hub, making it a central part of their mobile toolkit.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 4TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
The Lexar 4TB Armor 700 Portable SSD is a beast, designed for extreme performance and rugged durability. With incredible read/write speeds and robust IP66 ratings for water/dust resistance, plus 3-meter drop protection, this drive is built for the most demanding environments and workflows. If you need massive, ultra-fast, and practically indestructible storage, this is your go-to.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write speeds.
- Rated IP66 for water and dust protection; withstands 3-meter drops.
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS) with iPhone 15 Pro/Max.
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures for sustained performance.
- Wide compatibility: PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption.
- Comes with a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Extreme speeds for the fastest data transfers and large file handling.
- Unparalleled ruggedness and environmental protection.
- Optimized for professional video recording from mobile devices.
- Advanced thermal management prevents throttling.
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port to achieve maximum speeds.
- Premium price tag for its top-tier performance and capacity.
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User Impressions: This drive is highly praised by adventure photographers, videographers, and data-heavy professionals for its unbeatable combination of speed, capacity, and ruggedness.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
The Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD brings a unique blend of speed and convenience, featuring a MagSafe-compatible design. This makes it incredibly easy to attach to compatible smartphones, turning your phone into a powerful mobile workstation for recording high-resolution video like Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS or Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS. It’s a game-changer for mobile content creators.
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Key Features:
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write for fast workflow (performance may vary on non-USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 systems).
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy attachment to compatible smartphones; includes metal ring accessory.
- Supports recording Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
- Free access to Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion.
- Rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, and drop resistant up to 3M.
- Thin and stylish liquid silicone build with a comfortable grip; includes cable organizer/lanyard.
- Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures.
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Pros:
- Magnetic attachment is incredibly convenient for mobile devices.
- Ultra-high speeds for demanding mobile video recording.
- Robust protection against elements and drops.
- Stylish, ergonomic design with useful accessories.
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Cons:
- MagSafe feature is specific to certain devices.
- Full speed requires a compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port.
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User Impressions: Mobile videographers and content creators absolutely love the ES5 for its innovative magnetic attachment and the ability to record high-bitrate video directly, calling it an essential tool for modern smartphone cinematography.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
The Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is a sleek, highly portable, and fast storage solution for general users. While it notes that MagSafe isn’t available in this specific version, it still offers high-speed data transfer via USB 3.2 Gen 2, making it perfect for quick backups, file transfers, and expanding storage for a wide range of devices, from iPhones to gaming consoles. Its ultra-compact design means you can truly take it anywhere.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, durable metal design, weighs 42g and only 10.5mm thick.
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for everyday external storage needs.
- Incredibly portable and lightweight.
- Broad device compatibility.
- Enhanced data security with encryption.
- Durable metal construction.
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Cons:
- No MagSafe feature (unlike other ES models).
- Max speeds require a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port.
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User Impressions: Users value this ES3 for its blend of portability, speed, and versatility, often noting its compact size and robust build quality as standout features for everyday use.
- See it on Amazon here
10. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD
The Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD, without the integrated hub, offers a streamlined and incredibly fast storage solution. It’s built for those who need maximum portability and performance for demanding tasks like 4K video recording, but prefer a simpler, cable-based connection. Its ruggedness and impressive speeds make it an ideal companion for creators on the move.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensure firm insertion).
- Expand your smartphone’s storage instantly and enjoy seamless data transfers.
- Blazing-fast performance: 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless Apple ProRes 4K 60 fps recording.
- Compatible with mobile phones, iPads, tablets, Macs, PCs, cameras, and many Type-C devices.
- Ready for travel: dust- and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter, and comes with a protective silicone case.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- High 2TB capacity in a truly portable form factor.
- Excellent speeds for professional content creation workflows.
- Robust durability with IP65 rating and drop resistance.
- Wide compatibility with Type-C devices.
- Comes with a protective silicone case.
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Cons:
- Lacks the integrated hub of other “Professional Go” models.
- Max speeds require a USB-C connection supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2.
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User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate this model for its pure performance and portability, especially for mobile video editing and large file transfers, highlighting the included silicone case as a nice touch for added protection.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section
Q1: Why are 50GB SSDs so hard to find from Lexar and other brands?
A1: Modern SSD technology makes smaller capacities like 50GB less cost-effective to produce per gigabyte. For consumer use, 128GB or 256GB SSDs offer significantly more usable space at a very similar manufacturing cost, providing better value and performance for the price.
Q2: What’s the main difference between an internal and external Lexar SSD?
A2: Internal SSDs (like the NS100 series) are designed to be installed inside a computer (desktop or laptop) to replace a traditional hard drive or an older SSD, boosting system speed. External SSDs (like the ES3 or Professional Go series) connect via a USB cable and are used for portable storage, backups, or expanding storage for devices like phones, tablets, or gaming consoles.
Q3: Can I use a Lexar SSD to upgrade my old laptop?
A3: Absolutely! The Lexar NS100 2.5-inch SATA III SSDs (128GB, 256GB, 512GB) are perfect for upgrading most older laptops and desktops that use 2.5-inch hard drives. They offer a dramatic speed increase for boot times and application loading.
Q4: What does “TBW” mean in SSD specifications, and why is it important?
A4: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance. It indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its reliability might start to decline. A higher TBW means a longer lifespan, especially for heavy users. Lexar’s drives typically offer solid TBW ratings for their class.
Q5: Are Lexar portable SSDs compatible with smartphones?
A5: Many Lexar portable SSDs, especially those with USB-C connectivity (like the ES3, Professional Go, and ES5), are designed to be highly compatible with modern smartphones, including the iPhone 15 series and various Android devices. This allows for direct recording of high-quality video or easy file transfers. Always check the specific product’s compatibility list.
Q6: What does “IP65” or “IP66” rating mean for portable SSDs?
A6: “IP” stands for Ingress Protection, and the numbers indicate resistance to dust and water. The first digit (e.g., ‘6’ in IP6X) refers to dust protection (6 means totally dust-tight). The second digit (e.g., ‘5’ in IPX5 or ‘6’ in IPX6) refers to water resistance. IP65 means it’s protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. IP66 means it’s protected against powerful water jets. These ratings ensure durability in outdoor or challenging environments.
Q7: Is Lexar DataShield encryption software included with all Lexar SSDs?
A7: No, not with all models. Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software is typically included with select external SSD models, offering enhanced security for your portable files. Always check the specific product’s features list to confirm its inclusion.
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Best Lexar SSD
While the exact search for a Lexar best 50gb ssd for cheap might lead to slightly larger capacities, the good news is that Lexar offers an excellent range of affordable and high-performance solid-state drives. From boosting your internal system with a budget-friendly NS100 to carrying vast amounts of data at blistering speeds with a rugged portable ES series, there’s a Lexar SSD for almost every need and budget.
When choosing, consider your primary use case:
* For system upgrades: Look at the NS100 series (128GB, 256GB, 512GB) for a cost-effective internal boost.
* For portable storage and backups: The ES3 (1TB, 2TB) and Professional Go series (1TB, 2TB) offer speed and convenience.
* For professional content creation and extreme durability: The Armor 700 (4TB) and ES5 (1TB) with advanced features are excellent choices.
No matter which Lexar SSD you pick, you’re investing in a brand known for reliable performance and great value, ensuring your data is stored quickly and securely.