Are you tired of sluggish boot times and frustratingly slow application loads? If you’re looking to give your computer a serious performance boost without breaking the bank, upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the smartest moves you can make. While many capacities are available, a 240GB or 256GB SSD often hits that sweet spot for primary operating system drives, offering enough space for your OS and essential applications while keeping costs down.
If you’re on the hunt for the Lexar best 240 gb ssd for the money, you’re in a great place! While Lexar doesn’t offer an exact 240GB model, their 256GB NS100 series is a direct and excellent contender in that budget-friendly capacity range, offering incredible value. We’ve also included other fantastic Lexar options, from smaller capacities for ultra-budget builds to larger external drives for portable prowess, and even a top 240GB Western Digital alternative to ensure you find the absolute best deal.
Let’s dive into our top picks for internal and external solid state drives that deliver serious bang for your buck!
Our Top Picks: Lexar and 240GB SSDs That Deliver Value
Here’s a closer look at the drives that stand out for their performance, reliability, and most importantly, their value.
1. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
For those looking to breathe new life into an older laptop or desktop on a super tight budget, the Lexar 128GB NS100 is an absolute gem. It’s perfect as a dedicated boot drive, ensuring your system starts up in a flash, and gives you snappy performance for everyday tasks. Don’t underestimate its small capacity; it’s an incredible upgrade over a traditional hard drive, making your PC feel brand new again without a hefty price tag.
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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 (Total Bytes Written) endurance
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Very affordable entry point into SSD technology
- Significant speed improvement over HDDs
- Durable and reliable with no moving parts
- Easy to install in most 2.5-inch drive bays
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Cons:
- Limited storage capacity, best for OS and a few applications
- Not ideal for storing large game libraries or extensive media files
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User Impressions: Users love how this drive instantly transforms their older machines. Many note the dramatic difference in boot times and general system responsiveness, citing it as the perfect budget upgrade for basic computing needs.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
When it comes to the Lexar best 240 gb ssd for the money that’s actually from Lexar, the 256GB NS100 is your go-to champion. This capacity offers a fantastic balance between cost and usability, providing enough room for your operating system, several applications, and even some smaller games or essential files. It’s the ideal choice for a primary drive for most users seeking a noticeable performance upgrade without spending a fortune.
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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 (Total Bytes Written) endurance
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of price and capacity
- Delivers significant speed improvements for everyday computing
- Reliable and durable solid-state design
- Simple upgrade for existing systems
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Cons:
- Performance is standard SATA III, not NVMe
- May still be a bit small for heavy users with large software collections
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User Impressions: Customers consistently praise its value, speed, and ease of installation. Many consider it the perfect entry-level SSD for general-purpose use, highlighting its consistent performance and reliability as a great investment.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
Stepping up in capacity, the Lexar 512GB NS100 offers even more storage at an incredibly competitive price point, making it another strong contender for the “best for the money” title if you need more room. It’s perfect for users who want to store their OS, a substantial library of software, and even a few larger games without worrying about running out of space too quickly. With slightly improved read speeds, it’s a robust and reliable internal storage solution.
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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
- Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- [512GB] 240TBW (Total Bytes Written) endurance
- Three-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Generous capacity for the price
- Excellent read speeds for SATA III
- Enhanced durability and reliability compared to HDDs
- Ideal for a comprehensive system and application drive
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Cons:
- Still uses SATA III interface, not the fastest modern standard
- Write speeds are similar to smaller capacities, not drastically higher
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend the 512GB NS100 for its fantastic performance-to-price ratio. It’s a popular choice for budget gaming builds or as a main drive for general users who appreciate having more breathing room for their files and programs.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Western Digital 240GB WD Green Internal SSD Solid State…
If you’re strictly looking for a 240 gb ssd for the money and prefer a well-known alternative, the Western Digital 240GB WD Green is an outstanding choice. WD Green drives are synonymous with efficiency and reliability, offering a solid performance boost for everyday computing tasks. Its ultra-low power consumption makes it particularly appealing for laptop users, helping extend battery life while delivering consistent speed.
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Key Features:
- SLC (single-level cell) caching boosts write performance to quickly perform everyday tasks.
- Shock-resistant and WD F.I.T. Lab certified for compatibility and reliability.
- Ultra-low power-draw so you can use your laptop for longer periods of time.
- Available in 2.5″/7mm cased and M.2 2280 form factors to accommodate most PCs.
- The free, downloadable Western Digital SSD Dashboard lets you easily monitor the status of your drive.
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Pros:
- True 240GB capacity, directly matching the search
- Excellent power efficiency for laptops
- Backed by Western Digital’s reputation for reliability
- Good value for a primary boot drive
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Cons:
- Read/write speeds are good for SATA, but not top-tier
- Lacks advanced features found in higher-end SSDs
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User Impressions: Many users choose the WD Green for its reliability and energy efficiency. It’s a popular pick for older laptops or as a secondary storage drive, with customers appreciating its consistent performance and the peace of mind that comes with the WD brand.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
For the creative professional or enthusiast on the go, the Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a game-changer, offering incredible value beyond just storage. This isn’t just an external SSD; it’s a versatile tool that combines blazing-fast performance with a built-in hub, making it perfect for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs fast, flexible, and robust portable storage. Its ultra-compact design means you can truly take your work anywhere.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact so you can always keep it with you for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled, cumbersome cables
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease
- Portable SSD plus the hub with its own four USB Type-C ports, along with included adapters and cables, gives 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 (rated IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices is currently in progress
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Extremely fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 performance
- Integrated USB hub adds incredible versatility
- Rugged, travel-ready design (IP65 rated, drop resistant)
- Excellent for video recording directly from compatible devices
- Long 5-year warranty
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Cons:
- Higher price point compared to internal SATA SSDs
- Connector might require a firm push to ensure full insertion
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User Impressions: Creative users are particularly impressed with its speed and the convenience of the integrated hub, often calling it an essential piece of gear for fieldwork. Its ruggedness and ability to handle large video files seamlessly also receive high praise.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD,…
When portability and sleek design meet high-speed performance and security, you get the Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD. This incredibly thin and light drive is smaller than a credit card, making it effortlessly pocketable, yet it packs a serious punch with USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds. For anyone needing secure, fast, and easily transportable storage for their important files, photos, or even as an external gaming drive, the ES3 offers tremendous value.
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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, gaming console, and more
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g and is only 10.5mm thick
- Data Safety First: Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version
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Pros:
- Exceptional portability and stylish, durable design
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds for large files
- Wide compatibility with various devices and gaming consoles
- Includes 256-bit AES encryption for data security
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Cons:
- Performance may vary on systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Not compatible with iPhone 14 and older models
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User Impressions: Users love its compact size and robust build, making it a favorite for travel and daily commutes. The fast speeds are frequently highlighted for speeding up backups and file transfers, with the added security of encryption being a significant bonus for many.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
If 1TB simply isn’t enough, the Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub takes everything great about its 1TB sibling and doubles the storage, catering to the most demanding content creators and digital nomads. This powerhouse external SSD ensures you never have to compromise on carrying your entire workflow with you. It truly delivers immense value for professionals who need vast, fast, and resilient storage coupled with enhanced connectivity on the go.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact so you can always keep it with you for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from tangled, cumbersome cables
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage and store with ease
- Portable SSD plus the hub, which has its own four USB Type-C ports, along with included adapters and cables, gives ultimate flexibility
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording, no dropped frames, and swift backups
- Ready for travel – dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices is currently in progress
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Massive 2TB capacity for extensive libraries and projects
- Same integrated USB hub for versatile connectivity
- Top-tier transfer speeds for professional workloads
- Extremely durable and weather-resistant design
- Long 5-year warranty offers peace of mind
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Cons:
- Premium price point due to capacity and features
- The wireless connector might need extra care to ensure connection
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User Impressions: Professionals rave about the 2TB version, especially for large-scale video projects and extensive photo shoots. The combination of huge storage, speed, and the integrated hub is frequently cited as an indispensable tool that dramatically improves their workflow in the field.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does “for the money” mean when looking for an SSD?
A1: “For the money” refers to getting the best possible performance, reliability, and features at a particular price point. It’s about finding the sweet spot where the cost-to-benefit ratio is maximized, ensuring you’re getting excellent value for your investment rather than just the cheapest option.
Q2: Why is the Lexar 256GB NS100 considered the closest to a “Lexar best 240 gb ssd for the money”?
A2: While Lexar doesn’t offer an exact 240GB model, 256GB is the next standard capacity above 128GB and is very close in pricing and typical use cases to 240GB drives. The Lexar NS100 256GB offers comparable performance and affordability, making it the most direct Lexar alternative when considering the best value around that capacity.
Q3: What’s the main difference between an internal and external SSD?
A3: An internal SSD is installed inside your computer (e.g., in a 2.5-inch bay or M.2 slot) and typically serves as the primary storage. An external SSD connects via a USB cable and is designed for portability, backing up data, or extending storage for devices like gaming consoles or mobile phones.
Q4: Are Lexar SSDs reliable?
A4: Yes, Lexar is a reputable brand in the memory and storage industry. Their SSDs, like the NS100 series, are generally well-regarded for offering solid performance and reliability, especially for their price point, and typically come with a decent warranty for peace of mind.
Q5: What are LSI keywords and why are they important for SEO?
A5: LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are words and phrases semantically related to your main topic. They’re not just synonyms but rather concepts that Google expects to see in a high-quality article about a specific subject. For an article on “Lexar best 240 gb ssd for the money,” LSI keywords would include terms like “internal storage,” “speed upgrade,” “SATA III,” “boot times,” “data transfer,” and “laptop performance.” Using them naturally helps search engines understand the full context of your content, boosting its topical relevance and SEO ranking.
Q6: Can I use these SSDs to upgrade my gaming console (PS4/PS5 or Xbox)?
A6: Yes! Many of the internal 2.5-inch SATA SSDs (like the Lexar NS100 or WD Green) can be used to upgrade older consoles like the PS4. External SSDs like the Lexar ES3 and Professional Go Portable SSDs are excellent choices for expanding storage on current-gen consoles (PS5, Xbox Series X|S) to store games, improving loading times for some titles. Always check your console’s specific requirements before purchasing.
Q7: What’s the significance of TBW (Total Bytes Written)?
A7: TBW (Total Bytes Written) is an endurance rating for SSDs. It indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it’s expected to start having issues. A higher TBW means the drive is rated for more intensive use and typically suggests a longer lifespan, especially for drives that see a lot of data writes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SSD is a fantastic way to boost your computer’s performance without a massive investment. While the exact “Lexar best 240 gb ssd for the money” might lead you to Lexar’s excellent 256GB NS100 for internal use, we’ve shown there are many incredible Lexar solid state drives that offer outstanding value across various capacities and use cases. Whether you need a budget-friendly internal upgrade, robust portable storage for creative work, or a reliable alternative like the Western Digital 240GB Green, there’s a drive here that fits your needs perfectly.
Remember to consider your primary use case, desired capacity, and budget. Whichever you pick from this list, you’re guaranteed to get a noticeable speed increase and a more responsive computing experience!