Looking for an upgrade to your digital life? Whether you’re a gamer, a creative professional, or just someone who needs faster storage for everyday tasks, a Solid State Drive (SSD) is an absolute game-changer. And when it comes to balancing performance, reliability, and value, Lexar is a brand that consistently delivers. But with so many options, how do you find the Lexar best 1TB SSD for price that fits your specific needs?
You’re in luck! We’ve dived deep into Lexar’s extensive lineup to bring you 10 top solid-state drive solutions. While our focus is primarily on the popular 1TB capacity for its sweet spot of storage and affordability, we’ve even included a stellar 2TB option for those who need a little extra room. Let’s break down these fantastic storage solutions and help you make an informed decision.
Our Top 10 Lexar 1TB (and one 2TB) SSDs for Value and Performance
Here’s a closer look at each Lexar SSD that could be your next digital storage powerhouse.
1. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This isn’t just a portable SSD; it’s a mobile workstation in your pocket! The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with its integrated hub is designed for creators who are always on the move. Its ultra-compact size means you can genuinely take it anywhere, while the wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector simplifies your setup, cutting down on cable clutter. Capturing and storing high-quality Apple ProRes footage is a breeze, and its blazing-fast speeds of up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write ensure seamless 4K recording without dropped frames. Plus, with IP65 dust and water resistance and a 1-meter drop rating, it’s built tough for your adventures.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for spontaneous creativity
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (ensures no tangled cables)
- Supports Apple ProRes footage capture and storage
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports for ultimate flexibility
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write
- Ready for travel: IP65 dust/water resistant, 1-meter drop resistant
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Highly portable and durable (IP65 rating)
- Excellent for content creators, especially with ProRes support
- Built-in hub is incredibly convenient for connectivity
- Fast data transfer speeds for 4K workflows
- Long warranty for peace of mind
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Cons:
- Wireless Type-C connection might feel less secure to some users initially
- Specific compatibility testing with newer iPhones (iPhone 17 series) is ongoing
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User Impressions: Users love the versatility and portability of this drive, especially the integrated hub which makes it a fantastic tool for on-the-go content creation. The robust build quality also gets high marks, reassuring users about its durability in rugged environments.
See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD
The Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is the epitome of “on the go” storage. This sleek, thin, and stylish metal-designed drive weighs a mere 42g and is only 10.5mm thick – smaller than a credit card and perfect for slipping into any pocket. Don’t let its size fool you, though; it boasts high-speed data transfer with USB 3.2 Gen 2, reaching up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write. It’s incredibly versatile, compatible with iPhone 15 series (and newer), Android devices, laptops, gaming consoles, and cameras. Plus, with Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption, your files stay safe and sound.
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Key Features:
- High-speed data transfer: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2)
- Wide compatibility: iPhone 15 series+, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5
- Ultra-portable: 42g, 10.5mm thick, sleek metal design
- Includes Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption for data safety
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Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight
- Solid transfer speeds for an external drive
- Excellent device compatibility, including modern iPhones and gaming consoles
- Robust data encryption for security
- Durable metal construction
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Cons:
- Not compatible with iPhone 14 and older models
- Magsafe not available in this version
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User Impressions: Customers frequently praise its compact form factor and impressive speeds for daily use and backups. The added security of AES encryption is a big plus for those handling sensitive data. It’s often cited as a great everyday external drive.
See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
For serious performance enthusiasts, the Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink is a showstopper. This internal NVMe M.2 drive harnesses the power of PCIe Gen4, delivering scorching read speeds up to 7400MB/s and write speeds up to 6500MB/s – making it twice as fast as PCIe Gen 3 SSDs. What truly sets it apart is the integrated heatsink, which keeps your system cool under pressure, ensuring sustained performance and power efficiency. It even boasts up to 40% less power consumption than other DRAM cache-enabled Gen 4 SSDs, making it a stellar choice for gaming rigs and demanding workstations, including the PlayStation 5.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional PCIe Gen4 performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- Integrated heatsink for optimal cooling and sustained performance
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfers
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds for gaming, content creation, and heavy workloads
- Effective thermal management thanks to the heatsink
- Energy-efficient design
- Excellent for high-performance desktops and PS5 upgrades
- Long warranty period
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Cons:
- Requires a motherboard with a PCIe Gen4 M.2 slot
- Internal use only, not portable
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User Impressions: Gamers and professional users consistently rave about the incredible speed boost this SSD provides. The integrated heatsink is a highly appreciated feature, often noted for maintaining peak performance during extended, intensive use, especially in PS5 consoles.
See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD
The Lexar ES5 Magnetic External SSD redefines convenience and speed for portable storage. With speeds up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write, it’s lightning-fast, perfect for a smooth workflow. Its standout feature is the MagSafe-compatible design, allowing it to easily attach to your compatible smartphone – a game-changer for mobile content creators. Speaking of which, it supports recording Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS directly to the drive. Add to that IP65 dust and water resistance, 3-meter drop resistance, and thermal control, and you have a powerhouse in a sleek, liquid silicone build.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast performance: up to 2000MB/s read, 2000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy smartphone attachment (metal ring accessory included)
- Supports Apple ProRes 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS recording
- Free Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion
- Rated IP65 for dust/water resistance, drop-resistant up to 3 meters
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with comfortable grip and cable organizer
- Thermal control design ensures optimal temperatures
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for an external drive
- Revolutionary MagSafe compatibility for mobile users
- Ideal for high-end mobile video recording (ProRes, 8K)
- Highly durable and weather-resistant
- Handy companion app for backups
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Cons:
- Performance may be lower on systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Magnetic attachment requires compatible device or accessory
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User Impressions: Mobile videographers and photographers can’t get enough of its MagSafe feature and ability to record high-resolution video directly. The robust durability and fast transfer speeds are also frequently highlighted as major advantages.
See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
This variant of the Lexar NM790 SSD offers the same phenomenal PCIe Gen4 performance as its heatsink-equipped sibling but in a single-sided design. This makes it an absolutely perfect choice for laptops where space is at a premium. Delivering exceptional speeds up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write, it’s a powerhouse for hardcore gamers, creative professionals, and anyone demanding top-tier internal storage. It also boasts up to 40% less power consumption compared to other Gen 4 SSDs with DRAM cache and is fully compatible with PlayStation 5 for lightning-fast game loads.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional PCIe Gen4 performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth, seamless performance
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Blistering speeds for demanding applications and gaming
- Energy-efficient operation
- Ideal for ultrabooks and slim laptops due to its single-sided design
- Great upgrade for PS5
- Excellent performance-to-price ratio for a Gen4 drive
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Cons:
- No integrated heatsink (rely on system cooling)
- Internal use only, requires M.2 slot
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User Impressions: Laptop users, in particular, appreciate its single-sided design which ensures compatibility with thinner devices. The raw speed and efficiency make it a go-to for upgrading older systems or building new high-performance machines.
See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar 1TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
For those looking to breathe new life into an older laptop or desktop, the Lexar 1TB NS100 SSD is a fantastic and budget-friendly option. This 2.5-inch SATA III internal SSD provides sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s, offering a dramatic improvement over traditional hard drives. You’ll experience faster startups, quicker data transfers, and snappier application loads. Being an SSD, it’s also shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts, making it far more reliable and durable than an HDD. This drive represents a solid choice when seeking the Lexar best 1tb ssd for price in the SATA category.
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Key Features:
- Upgrade for laptop or desktop for faster performance
- Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
- Faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives
- Shock and vibration resistant (no moving parts)
- 480TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Significant performance upgrade over HDDs
- More durable and reliable than mechanical drives
- Cost-effective solution for older systems
- Easy to install in most 2.5-inch drive bays
- Good endurance rating
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe PCIe SSDs
- Limited to SATA III interface speeds
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User Impressions: Many users report that this drive transformed their old computers, making them feel like new again. The affordability combined with the noticeable speed boost makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious upgrades and system revivals.
See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD
The Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD is an incredibly sleek and robust external storage solution designed for blistering speed and ultimate portability. It boasts USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance with speeds up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write, ensuring your files move incredibly fast. Its thin, lightweight, and durable metal design means it slips easily into your pocket, and it’s a dream for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users, supporting Apple ProRes recording directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS. With wide compatibility and Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption, it’s a secure and versatile powerhouse.
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Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: up to 2000MB/s read, 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design
- Supports Apple ProRes recording (up to 4K 60FPS) with iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max
- Wide compatibility: mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5
- Unique Thermal Control Design for sustained high performance
- Equipped with Type-C data cable for plug-and-play
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Compact dimensions: 3.3” x 2.1” x 0.3”; 0.095 lbs
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Exceptional portable speeds (among the fastest external SSDs)
- Highly compact and robust metal build
- Excellent for iPhone video creators
- Great thermal management ensures consistent performance
- Strong data security with AES encryption
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Cons:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support is not universal on all systems, potentially limiting max speed
- Might be considered premium priced compared to slower external drives
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the SL500’s incredible speed in such a small form factor. Its compatibility with the latest iPhones for direct recording is a huge selling point for content creators, who also appreciate its sleek design and reliable performance.
See it on Amazon here
8. Lexar 1TB NQ780 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
The Lexar 1TB NQ780 SSD is a solid choice for those seeking reliable PCIe Gen4 NVMe performance without breaking the bank. It delivers strong read/write speeds up to 6500/2500 MB/s, ensuring fast game loads, quick boot-ups, and snappy application performance. Thanks to its high-quality 8-channel Gen 4 controller, HMB, and SLC cache technologies, it offers better sustained write performance, reduced latency, and an improved user experience. Its single-sided design and Intelligent Power Control also make it a great fit for laptops. Plus, the Lexar DiskMaster SSD Management tool helps you keep tabs on drive health and perform updates.
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Key Features:
- Solid PCIe Gen4 speeds: up to 6500/2500 MB/s read/write
- High-quality 8-channel Gen 4 controller for sustained performance
- HMB and SLC cache technologies improve speed and reduce latency
- Single-sided design and Intelligent Power Control, great for laptops
- Lexar DiskMaster SSD Management tool for firmware updates and monitoring
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Good value for a PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD
- Optimized for both desktops and laptops
- Improved sustained write performance over some competitors
- Useful management software included
- Reliable for gaming and everyday use
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Cons:
- Write speeds are lower than Lexar’s top-tier Gen4 offerings (e.g., NM790)
- Not the absolute fastest Gen4 drive available
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User Impressions: Many users find the NQ780 to be an excellent upgrade from older SATA or Gen3 NVMe drives, noting the immediate boost in system responsiveness. The DiskMaster software is often highlighted as a useful bonus for maintaining drive health.
See it on Amazon here
9. Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Step into the future with the Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO, a cutting-edge PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 SSD that delivers mind-blowing speeds. We’re talking up to 14,000MB/s read and 10,000MB/s write – that’s accelerating load times by 200%! This drive is engineered for the most demanding users, from hardcore gamers with AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 setups to AI professionals. Its powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control, while DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache supercharge data transfer speeds. It even works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads and minimize delays, making it arguably the Lexar best 1tb ssd for price if you’re building a top-tier, future-proof machine.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology for blistering speeds: up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s read/write
- Accelerates load times by 200%
- Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs (reduces bottlenecks, accelerates training/inferencing)
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache enhance data transfer speeds
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for superior gaming performance
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Pros:
- Unparalleled, future-proof performance with PCIe 5.0
- Ideal for the most demanding tasks: gaming, AI, high-resolution editing
- Advanced thermal management and caching technologies
- Significant boost for next-gen gaming with DirectStorage
- Top-tier choice for new high-end PC builds
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Cons:
- Requires a compatible PCIe 5.0 motherboard (still relatively new technology)
- Likely a higher price point (though value for performance is immense)
- May be overkill for average users
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User Impressions: Early adopters are blown away by the sheer speed and responsiveness of this Gen5 drive. Gamers especially note the near-instantaneous load times and smoother gameplay, while professionals appreciate its capacity to handle massive datasets and intensive computational tasks with ease.
See it on Amazon here
10. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
While our article focuses on 1TB options, we simply couldn’t leave out the Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD for those who need more space without compromising on speed. This powerhouse offers 9.5X faster performance than traditional hard drives, with read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write speeds up to 1000MB/s. It’s perfect for super-fast backups and instant storage expansion across your PC, Mac, tablet, or smartphone. Designed for durability, it features built-in graphite sheets for efficient heat dissipation and is drop-resistant up to 2 meters. With a convenient 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable and Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption, it’s a complete package for secure and expansive portable storage.
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Key Features:
- Generous 2TB capacity
- Super-fast transfers: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write (9.5X faster than HDDs)
- Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for durability
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable
- Wide compatibility: PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone, and more
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Lexar Recovery Tool to help restore accidentally deleted files
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Pros:
- High 2TB capacity for extensive storage needs
- Excellent speeds for an external drive
- Robust build with great heat management and drop resistance
- Versatile connectivity with included 2-in-1 cable
- Enhanced data security and recovery options
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Cons:
- Though fast, not as fast as Gen 2×2 or magnetic options
- Not a 1TB option (if that’s your strict requirement)
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User Impressions: Users frequently highlight the perfect balance of large capacity and brisk transfer speeds, making it ideal for backing up large media libraries or project files. Its ruggedness and ease of use, especially with the universal cable, also receive high praise.
See it on Amazon here
Conclusion
Choosing the Lexar best 1TB SSD for price really comes down to your specific needs. Are you a mobile content creator needing rugged, portable speed with hub functionality? The Professional Go Portable SSD is your pick. Do you need an internal powerhouse for gaming or professional work? The NM790 (with or without heatsink) or the cutting-edge NM1090 PRO will blow you away. For older systems or budget-friendly upgrades, the NS100 offers fantastic value, while the ES3 and SL500 provide excellent external options for everyday use and high-speed mobile workflows, respectively.
Lexar consistently delivers on performance, reliability, and value across its range of solid-state drives. By considering what you’ll primarily use your SSD for – be it gaming, creative tasks, everyday computing, or extensive backups – you can pinpoint the perfect Lexar drive that offers the optimal blend of features and price. Whichever you choose, you’re investing in a significant speed and efficiency upgrade for your digital life.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is an SSD, and why should I choose Lexar?
A1: An SSD (Solid State Drive) is a type of non-volatile storage device that stores persistent data on solid-state flash memory. Unlike traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), SSDs have no moving parts, resulting in significantly faster speeds, higher durability, less noise, and lower power consumption. Lexar is a reputable brand known for producing high-quality memory and storage solutions with a strong focus on performance, reliability, and innovative features, making them a popular choice for various user needs.
Q2: What’s the main difference between internal and external Lexar SSDs?
A2: Internal SSDs (like the NM790 or NS100) are installed inside your computer (desktop or laptop) to serve as the primary storage or a secondary drive, offering the fastest possible speeds as they connect directly to the motherboard via SATA or NVMe PCIe slots. External SSDs (like the ES3 or SL500) connect via USB and are designed for portability, offering easy plug-and-play storage expansion, backups, and file transfers between devices. They are great for taking your data on the go.
Q3: What do PCIe Gen4, PCIe Gen5, and SATA III mean for SSD performance?
A3: These refer to the interface technology used by internal SSDs, dictating their maximum theoretical speed:
* SATA III: The oldest of the three, with a maximum theoretical speed of 600MB/s. It’s suitable for basic upgrades and older systems.
* PCIe Gen4 NVMe: A much faster interface, offering speeds up to 7000-7500MB/s (e.g., Lexar NM790). It’s standard for modern high-performance gaming PCs and workstations.
* PCIe Gen5 NVMe: The newest and fastest interface, capable of staggering speeds up to 14,000MB/s (e.g., Lexar NM1090 PRO). It’s cutting-edge technology for future-proof, extreme performance systems and AI applications.
Q4: Is a 1TB SSD enough for gaming or video editing?
A4: For many users, a 1TB SSD offers a great balance. For gaming, it’s sufficient for storing a good selection of modern games (which can be 50-100GB+ each), alongside your operating system and essential applications. For video editing, 1TB can serve as a fast working drive for current projects, but professional editors often require multiple drives or larger capacities (like 2TB or more, or external options) to store raw footage and finished projects. It highly depends on the file sizes and volume of your work.
Q5: What factors should I consider when choosing a Lexar 1TB SSD?
A5:
* Purpose: Gaming, video editing, everyday use, portable storage?
* Interface: Internal (NVMe PCIe Gen4/Gen5, SATA) or External (USB 3.2 Gen 2, Gen 2×2)? Ensure compatibility with your device.
* Speed: Higher MB/s for demanding tasks, lower speeds are fine for general use.
* Durability/Features: IP ratings, heatsinks, encryption, MagSafe compatibility.
* Budget: Balance performance with what you’re willing to spend.
* Compatibility: Check if it works with your specific computer, console (PS5, Xbox), or mobile device (iPhone 15+).
Q6: How does Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption work, and why is it important?
A6: Lexar DataShield utilizes 256-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) encryption, which is a highly secure cryptographic key to scramble your data. This means that if your external SSD falls into the wrong hands, your files remain unreadable and protected without the correct password. It’s crucial for safeguarding sensitive personal or professional information stored on portable drives.
Q7: What does “TBW” mean for SSD longevity?
A7: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance. It indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its performance or reliability might degrade. For example, a 1000TBW rating (like on the NM790) means you can write 1000 terabytes of data to the drive over its lifespan. For most users, this is far more than they’ll ever write, ensuring excellent longevity.
Q8: Are Lexar internal SSDs compatible with PlayStation 5?
A8: Yes, several Lexar internal NVMe M.2 SSDs, such as the NM790 (with or without heatsink) and the NQ780, are compatible with the PlayStation 5. It’s crucial to ensure the drive meets Sony’s specific requirements for sequential read speed and physical dimensions, including the heatsink. Always double-check the product specifications against PS5 requirements for seamless expansion.