Choosing the right SSD can be a game-changer for your system’s performance, especially if you’re running a lean, high-performance operating system like Arch Linux. When you’re looking for the Lexar arch best filesystem for SSD setup, it’s not just about the filesystem itself, but also the underlying hardware. A top-tier SSD from a reputable brand like Lexar can truly unleash the potential of any optimized filesystem, whether you prefer Btrfs, F2FS, or a finely tuned ext4.
Lexar has carved out a solid reputation for delivering robust and incredibly fast storage solutions, perfect for everything from hardcore gaming to professional content creation and everyday computing. In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into 10 of Lexar’s best SSD offerings, highlighting their unique features, performance capabilities, and what makes them stand out. We’ll help you understand why these drives are excellent choices, no matter your operating system or workload, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck and discover the Lexar arch best filesystem for SSD compatibility you need.
Let’s explore these stellar Lexar SSDs!
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
This innovative portable SSD isn’t just about storage; it’s a complete mobile workflow solution. Its ultra-compact design means you can literally take your studio with you, ready to capture spontaneous creativity. The integrated hub, featuring four USB Type-C ports, along with included adapters and cables, gives creators unparalleled flexibility to customize their setup on the fly, making it a powerful tool for professionals who need to manage multiple devices and transfer large files rapidly.
- Ultra-compact and portable design for creativity on the go.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector with integrated 4-port hub.
- Supports Apple ProRes footage capture directly to the drive.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress.
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Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Highly versatile with integrated USB-C hub.
- Excellent speeds for a portable drive.
- Extremely durable with IP65 rating and drop resistance.
- Great for mobile content creators (iPhone ProRes support).
- Cons:
- May require firm insertion for the Type-C connector to work.
- Hub functionality might drain device battery quicker.
- Pricier than basic portable SSDs due to hub feature.
User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of having both storage and a hub in one tiny package. They often praise its ruggedness and the ability to seamlessly integrate it into their mobile creative workflows, calling it a true game-changer for on-the-go professionals.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
When it comes to raw internal performance, the Lexar NM790 is a true powerhouse. This PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD delivers exceptional speeds that are twice as fast as previous Gen3 drives, making it an ideal choice for serious gamers, demanding professionals, and content creators who can’t afford bottlenecks. What’s more, its efficient design uses significantly less power than many other Gen4 SSDs, helping your system stay cool and prolonging battery life in laptops.
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write.
- 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.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops.
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Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen4 speeds.
- Energy efficient, leading to lower heat and better battery life.
- PS5 compatible, great for console upgrades.
- Single-sided design ensures broad laptop compatibility.
- Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard to reach full speeds.
- Not as fast as newer Gen5 drives.
User Impressions: Gamers and power users consistently highlight the NM790’s impressive speed and low power draw. Many appreciate its PlayStation 5 compatibility, noting a significant boost in loading times and overall system responsiveness. It’s often cited as a superb value for its performance tier.
Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
For those who demand nothing less than cutting-edge performance, the Lexar NM1090 PRO is a beast. Utilizing the latest PCIe 5.0 technology, this SSD blasts through data at incredible speeds, accelerating load times by a staggering 200%. It’s not just fast; it’s smart, with a 6nm controller that optimizes heat control for sustained peak performance. If you’re building an AI PC or want to leverage Microsoft DirectStorage for gaming, this drive is engineered to eliminate bottlenecks and provide an unrivaled experience.
- PCIe 5.0 technology with blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s.
- Accelerates load times by 200%, ideal for AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 systems.
- Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control for efficient performance.
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks in AI tasks.
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds.
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Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for significantly boosted game loads.
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Pros:
- Next-generation PCIe 5.0 speeds, currently among the fastest available.
- Excellent for high-demand applications like AI, 4K video editing, and gaming.
- Advanced thermal management ensures consistent performance.
- DRAM and SLC caching for superior responsiveness.
- Cons:
- Requires a PCIe Gen5 compatible motherboard, which is newer and potentially more expensive.
- Higher price point due to cutting-edge technology.
- Might generate more heat, necessitating good case airflow or a heatsink.
User Impressions: Early adopters and tech enthusiasts are blown away by the NM1090 PRO’s sheer speed, describing it as a true next-gen upgrade. They report drastically reduced load times in games and applications, confirming its prowess for high-performance computing tasks.
Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible…
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is all about power in a sleek, pocket-sized package. It offers incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, making quick work of large file transfers, and its thin, lightweight metal design means it can go anywhere with you without a second thought. For iPhone 15 Pro users, it’s a dream come true, supporting direct Apple ProRes recording in stunning 4K 60FPS. Plus, Lexar’s Thermal Control Design keeps things cool even when it’s working hard.
- 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 ProRes recording up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max.
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
- Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperature and sustained performance.
- Includes Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software included.
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Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast for a portable SSD (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2).
- Compact, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.
- Excellent for iPhone 15 Pro/Max users for direct video recording.
- Robust compatibility across various devices.
- Built-in encryption for data security.
- Cons:
- Full speeds require a system with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port (Mac and older systems may see lower speeds).
- Metal casing can feel warm during heavy use, despite thermal control.
User Impressions: iPhone 15 Pro users particularly love this drive for its seamless ProRes recording capabilities, calling it an essential accessory. General users appreciate its compact size, robust build, and the consistent, high-speed transfers for everyday use and backup.
Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable SSD…
This Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD is designed for professionals who need both speed and expanded connectivity on the move. It boasts blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 transfer speeds, ideal for handling large multimedia files. But its standout feature is the integrated hub with four USB Type-C connectors, offering up to 30W power supply. This makes it a central hub for connecting multiple devices like cameras and smartphones, streamlining your workflow whether you’re in the field or at your desk.
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Built-in hub with 4 USB Type-C connectors (up to 30W power supply).
- IP65 dust- and water-resistance and 3.3′ (1m) anti-drop protection.
- Ultra-small dimensions (1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32″) and lightweight (0.5 oz).
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Universal compatibility (Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, iOS, Android 4.4+, iPhone 15 series, etc.).
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Pros:
- Combines SSD storage with a powerful USB-C hub.
- Exceptional durability with IP65 rating and drop protection.
- Extremely compact and lightweight, highly portable.
- Wide-ranging device compatibility.
- Cons:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds are fast but not as fast as Gen 2×2 or internal NVMe.
- Hub functionality requires power, which could be a factor for some mobile setups.
User Impressions: This drive receives high marks for its unique combination of storage and hub capabilities, making it a favorite for photographers and videographers who need to connect and offload from multiple devices. Its robust build is also a commonly praised feature among users who work in varied environments.
Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 4TB
The Lexar SL600 is a fantastic choice if you need serious storage capacity combined with incredible speed in a portable form factor. With USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 technology, it delivers impressive 2000MB/s read and write speeds, significantly cutting down on transfer times for massive files. Available in up to 4TB, it ensures you’ll have ample space for all your projects, photos, and videos, while its shock and vibration-resistant design provides peace of mind on the go.
- Incredible speeds up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2).
- Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities.
- Rugged durability: shock and vibration-resistant.
- Compact and portable design (4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches; 2.25 oz).
- Universal compatibility (Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, Android 4.4+).
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Includes USB Type-C and Type-A cables.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance.
- High storage capacity options (up to 4TB).
- Excellent durability for outdoor or travel use.
- Broad compatibility with included cables.
- Cons:
- Full speeds require a host device supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
- While portable, it’s slightly larger than some of Lexar’s other ultra-compact offerings.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the SL600’s speed, especially when dealing with large video files or extensive photo libraries. The robust build and substantial storage options make it a go-to for many creative professionals and data-heavy users who need reliable portable storage.
Lexar Professional Workflow USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD – 4TB
Designed with the professional workflow in mind, this Lexar Portable SSD delivers rapid file transfers with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 technology, boasting speeds up to 2000MB/s. It’s a workhorse, available in 2TB and 4TB configurations, providing expansive space for high-resolution media. Its rugged design can withstand tough conditions, being shock and vibration-resistant, which is crucial for professionals who often work in challenging environments or travel frequently.
- Incredible transfer speeds up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2).
- Expansive storage capacity (2TB and 4TB options).
- Rugged durability: shock-resistant (50G) and vibration-resistant.
- Compact and portable design (4 x 2.3 x 0.5″; 5.1 oz).
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Broad compatibility (FCC, CE, and other global standards).
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Pros:
- Top-tier portable speeds for efficient workflow.
- Large capacities suitable for professional media.
- High level of physical durability for demanding use.
- Universally compliant for global usage.
- Cons:
- A bit heavier and thicker than some other portable Lexar SSDs.
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 is still not universally adopted, limiting peak speeds on some systems.
User Impressions: Professionals frequently praise this drive for its combination of speed, capacity, and ruggedness. They especially value its reliability when handling critical data in fast-paced production environments, finding it a dependable companion for on-location shoots and backups.
Lexar SL600 USB 3.2 Type-C Portable External SSD – 2TB
Just like its 4TB sibling, the 2TB Lexar SL600 offers exceptional performance and reliability in a compact form factor. This portable external SSD leverages USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 to achieve blazing-fast read and write speeds of up to 2000MB/s, making it perfect for quick data backups and efficient file transfers. Its durable, shock-resistant build means your valuable data stays safe, whether you’re commuting or traveling, while its sleek design easily slips into any bag or pocket.
- Incredible speeds up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2).
- Ample storage capacity (available in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB).
- Rugged durability: shock and vibration-resistant.
- Compact and portable design (4.43 x 2.32 x 0.41 inches; 2.25 oz).
- Universal compatibility (Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, Android 4.4+).
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Includes USB Type-C and Type-A cables.
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Pros:
- High-speed transfers ideal for large files and projects.
- Robust construction protects data from physical shocks.
- Good balance of capacity and portability.
- Wide compatibility with included cable options.
- Cons:
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 host for maximum performance.
- Similar to the 4TB model, it’s not the absolute smallest portable SSD.
User Impressions: Users value the SL600 for its consistent high performance and reliability. It’s often recommended for those who need a portable drive that can keep up with demanding tasks, with many highlighting its robust build quality as a key differentiator.
Lexar Professional Workflow Portable 4TB SSD – Aluminum…
This 4TB Lexar Professional Workflow Portable SSD is built for the most demanding environments and users. With an impressive IP68 rating, it offers maximum protection against water, dust, and even drops up to 3 meters, making it virtually indestructible for outdoor shoots or rugged travel. Beyond its extreme durability, it delivers ultra-fast 2000MB/s read and write speeds, backed by advanced thermal control to ensure sustained performance under intense workloads, all housed in a premium aluminum build.
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 2000MB/s read and write.
- Rugged durability: IP68 rating, water, dust, and 3-meter drop protection.
- Advanced Thermal Control maintains optimal performance.
- Premium Aluminum Build for scratch resistance and heat dissipation.
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Peace of Mind Warranty: 5-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Extreme durability with IP68 rating – one of the toughest portable SSDs.
- Excellent sustained speeds for high-volume data.
- Superior thermal management for reliability.
- Premium and durable aluminum casing.
- Cons:
- Likely to be heavier and bulkier than other portable SSDs due to ruggedization.
- Higher price point reflecting its premium build and extreme durability.
User Impressions: This drive is a favorite among adventure photographers, filmmakers, and field professionals who absolutely cannot afford data loss due to environmental factors. They consistently laud its unparalleled ruggedness and reliable performance even in the most challenging conditions.
Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable SSD…
Rounding out our list, this Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD (a variant of the first product reviewed) once again emphasizes ultra-portability combined with essential connectivity. It delivers fast 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2, perfect for quickly transferring large files. What truly sets it apart is the integrated hub with four USB Type-C connectors, capable of supplying up to 30W of power. This tiny powerhouse is built for convenience and durability, featuring IP65 dust- and water-resistance and 3.3-foot drop protection, ensuring your data is safe wherever your work takes you.
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Expanded device connectivity with a built-in hub (4 USB Type-C connectors, up to 30W power).
- Rugged durability: IP65 dust- and water-resistance and 3.3′ (1m) anti-drop protection.
- Ultra-small dimensions (1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32″) and lightweight (0.5 oz).
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Universal compatibility (Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows 11/10/7/8, iOS, Android 4.4+, iPhone 15 series, etc.).
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Pros:
- Combines portable SSD with multi-device charging/connectivity hub.
- Exceptionally small and lightweight, perfect for travel.
- High level of ruggedness for peace of mind.
- Wide compatibility with various operating systems and devices.
- Cons:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds are fast, but not the fastest available (e.g., Gen 2×2).
- Integrated hub might consume power from the host device.
User Impressions: Much like its 1TB counterpart, users adore this SSD for its multi-functionality and extreme portability. It’s often described as an indispensable tool for mobile professionals who need to offload data and connect peripherals without carrying multiple dongles. Its robust construction is a consistent highlight.
Conclusion
Whether you’re building a new Arch Linux machine, upgrading an existing system, or simply need a reliable external drive, Lexar offers a compelling range of SSDs. From the blistering internal speeds of the PCIe Gen5 NM1090 PRO to the ultra-rugged, feature-rich Professional Workflow Portable SSDs, there’s a Lexar drive for every need and budget.
When considering the Lexar arch best filesystem for SSD, remember that modern filesystems like Btrfs or F2FS (and even a well-configured ext4) are designed to leverage SSD performance, especially with features like TRIM support. The key is to pair these optimized filesystems with high-quality hardware. Any of the Lexar SSDs reviewed above will provide an excellent foundation for a responsive and stable Arch Linux environment, or any other operating system you choose. By investing in a high-quality Lexar SSD, you’re not just getting speed; you’re getting reliability, durability, and a smooth computing experience that will last.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the Lexar arch best filesystem for SSD performance on Linux?
A1: For Arch Linux (or any Linux distribution), popular and highly recommended filesystems for SSDs include Btrfs (with features like snapshots and copy-on-write), F2FS (optimized specifically for flash memory), and ext4 (with discard or fstrim enabled for TRIM support). There isn’t a single “best” as it depends on your specific needs, but all these options leverage SSD features effectively with Lexar drives.
Q2: What’s the main difference between internal and portable Lexar SSDs?
A2: Internal Lexar SSDs (like the NM790 or NM1090 PRO) are typically M.2 NVMe drives that connect directly to your motherboard, offering the fastest possible speeds (especially PCIe Gen4/Gen5). Portable Lexar SSDs (like the SL500 or Professional Go) connect externally via USB and prioritize portability, durability, and broad compatibility, though they still offer impressive speeds.
Q3: Is PCIe Gen 5 worth the upgrade over Gen 4 for an SSD?
A3: PCIe Gen 5 offers double the theoretical bandwidth of Gen 4, leading to significantly faster read/write speeds. For hardcore gamers (especially with DirectStorage), AI professionals, and content creators handling massive files, Gen 5 (like the Lexar NM1090 PRO) can be a noticeable upgrade by reducing load times and bottlenecks. For most general users, Gen 4 provides excellent performance and is still a very capable option.
Q4: How important is durability (IP ratings, drop resistance) for a portable SSD?
A4: Extremely important, especially if you travel frequently or work in challenging environments. IP ratings (like IP65 or IP68) indicate resistance to dust and water, while drop resistance protects against accidental falls. These features ensure your valuable data remains safe and accessible, making rugged Lexar portable SSDs a smart choice for professionals on the go.
Q5: Can Lexar portable SSDs be used with smartphones or cameras for direct recording?
A5: Yes, many Lexar portable SSDs, such as the SL500 and Professional Go series, are designed for wide compatibility, including direct recording support for devices like the iPhone 15 Pro/Max (for Apple ProRes footage) and various cameras. They typically connect via USB-C for plug-and-play convenience.
Q6: What is ‘Host Memory Buffer (HMB)’ and ‘DRAM Cache’ in an SSD?
A6: Both HMB and DRAM Cache are technologies used to improve SSD performance. DRAM Cache uses dedicated RAM chips on the SSD itself for faster mapping table access. HMB (Host Memory Buffer) allows the SSD to use a small portion of your computer’s main RAM (host memory) for caching, effectively providing DRAM-less SSDs with similar performance benefits without the added cost or power consumption of dedicated DRAM. Lexar utilizes both depending on the drive model for optimized performance.
Q7: How does thermal control affect SSD lifespan and performance?
A7: SSDs generate heat, especially during sustained heavy workloads. Effective thermal control, like the unique designs found in Lexar SSDs, helps dissipate this heat, preventing thermal throttling (where performance is reduced to prevent overheating) and extending the lifespan of the drive’s components. Keeping an SSD cool ensures consistent, high performance over time.
Q8: Are Lexar SSDs compatible with non-Linux operating systems like Windows and macOS?
A8: Absolutely! All Lexar SSDs, both internal and portable, are designed for broad compatibility across major operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux. The review section highlights specific compatibility for each product, ensuring seamless integration into diverse computing environments.