Hey, fellow PlayStation 5 gamer! Ever found yourself staring at that “storage full” message right when a new, exciting title drops? You’re not alone. Modern games are massive, and the PS5’s built-in 825GB (with about 667GB usable) fills up faster than you can say “trophy unlocked.” But don’t sweat it, there’s a simple and powerful solution: expanding your PS5 storage with an M.2 NVMe SSD.
When it comes to reliable and high-performance storage, Lexar is a brand that frequently comes up. They offer a fantastic range of drives perfect for boosting your console’s capacity and ensuring your games run smoothly. But with so many options, how do you pick the Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS5? That’s where we come in!
We’ve dived deep into Lexar’s lineup to bring you the top 9 Lexar 1TB SSDs that are perfect for your PlayStation 5. We’ll break down their features, what makes them tick, and help you find the ideal storage upgrade to keep the gaming going. Let’s get started!
Why Upgrade Your PS5 Storage?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly cover why an upgrade is almost a necessity for serious gamers:
- More Games: This is the obvious one! Store more of your favorite PS5 and PS4 titles without constantly uninstalling and reinstalling.
- Faster Loading Times: While the PS5’s internal SSD is super fast, a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD can match or even exceed those speeds, ensuring rapid game loading.
- Future-Proofing: As games continue to evolve, so do their file sizes. An expanded SSD ensures you’re ready for whatever next-gen throws at you.
- Playing PS5 Games Directly: Unlike external USB drives which can only store PS5 games (or play PS4 games), an internal M.2 SSD allows you to play PS5 games directly from it, just like the console’s built-in drive.
Now, let’s explore the best Lexar 1TB SSDs for PS5!
The Top Lexar 1TB SSDs for PS5
Here’s our curated list of Lexar’s finest 1TB SSDs suitable for your PlayStation 5, broken down for easy comparison.
1. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
This drive is a fantastic all-in-one solution for PS5 gamers, coming pre-equipped with a heatsink to ensure optimal thermal performance during intense gaming sessions. It hits those crucial PCIe Gen4 speeds that the PS5 demands, making it a plug-and-play powerhouse.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1000TBW (Terabytes Written) for superb endurance
- Designed with an integrated heatsink for cool operation and power efficiency
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfers
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Heatsink included, saving you an extra purchase and installation step.
- Blazing-fast Gen4 speeds exceed PS5’s requirements.
- Excellent endurance and power efficiency.
- Ready for PS5 right out of the box.
- Cons:
- Might be slightly thicker due to the integrated heatsink, though generally fits PS5.
- User Impressions: Gamers love the convenience of the pre-attached heatsink and the noticeable boost in game loading times. Many highlight its easy installation and reliable performance on their PS5.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you prefer to choose your own heatsink or perhaps already have one, this version of the NM790 offers identical raw performance to its heatsink-equipped sibling. It’s a top-tier performer, perfect for those who want to customize their thermal solution while still getting a screaming fast drive.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1000TBW for robust endurance
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for seamless performance
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops too
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Delivers top-tier Gen4 speeds, well above PS5 requirements.
- Power efficient and durable.
- Versatile single-sided design.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Cons:
- Requires a separately purchased heatsink for PS5 installation.
- User Impressions: Users praise its incredible speed and value, especially when paired with a good aftermarket heatsink. It’s a popular choice for gamers and content creators alike.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
While not an internal M.2 drive, this external SSD offers a different kind of versatility for your PS5 setup. It’s fantastic for storing your PS5 games and offloading them from your internal drive, or for playing your PS4 titles directly, freeing up valuable internal space. Its portability is a huge plus!
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, etc.
- Thin, stylish, and durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick)
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software for file protection
- Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- Excellent for storing PS5 games and playing PS4 games.
- Versatile for use with multiple devices.
- Includes data encryption for security.
- Cons:
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from this drive; they must be transferred to the internal M.2 SSD first.
- Slower than internal PCIe Gen4 SSDs for PS5 games.
- User Impressions: Users love its compact size and speedy file transfers. It’s often recommended for those who need extra storage for older games or want to quickly move PS5 titles around.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 1TB NQ780 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
The NQ780 is another solid internal PCIe Gen4 option from Lexar, offering a great balance of performance and value. While its write speeds are a bit lower than the flagship NM790, its read speeds are still more than enough for snappy game loads on your PS5.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Delivers read/write speeds up to 6500/2500 MB/s
- High-quality 8-channel Gen 4 controller
- HMB and SLC cache technologies improve performance and reduce latency
- Great for laptops too thanks to its single-sided design and Intelligent Power Control
- Lexar DiskMaster SSD Management tool for firmware updates, data management, and health monitoring
- A 5-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Read speeds meet PS5 requirements for playing games directly.
- Good value for a Gen4 drive.
- Includes management software for optimal health.
- Single-sided design offers good compatibility.
- Cons:
- Write speeds are considerably lower than top-tier Gen4 drives.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate its cost-effectiveness and reliable performance for gaming. It’s a strong contender for those on a slightly tighter budget who still want Gen4 speeds.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
Stepping up the external SSD game, the Lexar SL500 offers incredibly fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, making it one of the quickest external drives around. It’s not just for PS5 storage; its capabilities extend to professional content creation, including direct Apple ProRes recording.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- 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 Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, etc.
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Extremely fast for an external SSD, great for transferring large files quickly.
- Robust and sleek design with excellent thermal control.
- ProRes recording capability is a bonus for content creators.
- Versatile for use with many devices, including PS5 (for storage/PS4 games).
- Cons:
- As an external drive, it cannot play PS5 games directly.
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on your PC to achieve maximum speeds.
- User Impressions: Users are highly impressed with its lightning-fast transfer speeds and premium build quality. It’s seen as a powerful tool for professionals and gamers who need quick, portable storage.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD (Popular Model)
Yes, we’re featuring the ES3 again! Its popularity and excellent balance of speed, portability, and affordability make it a fantastic choice. This review serves as a reminder of why this particular external drive from Lexar is so well-regarded for various uses, including PlayStation 5 storage expansion.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Wide Compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming console, and more
- Thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g and is only 10.5mm thick
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software for file protection
- Pros:
- Highly portable and pocket-friendly design.
- Good speeds for an external drive, great for PS4 games and PS5 storage.
- Very broad compatibility across many devices.
- Security features with AES encryption.
- Cons:
- Cannot directly play PS5 games from this external SSD.
- Not as fast as internal PCIe Gen4 SSDs for native PS5 games.
- User Impressions: This drive consistently receives high marks for its ease of use, compact form factor, and reliable performance. It’s a go-to for many who need flexible, supplementary storage.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Hold onto your hats – the NM1090 PRO is a beast, pushing the boundaries with PCIe Gen5 technology! While its blistering speeds of up to 14,000 MB/s are incredible for cutting-edge PC builds (especially for AI PCs or high-end workstations with AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 processors), it’s important to note that the PlayStation 5 currently does not support PCIe Gen5. Therefore, while it could fit, it wouldn’t achieve its full potential on a PS5, operating at Gen4 speeds.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- PCIe 5.0 technology delivers read/write speeds up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s
- Accelerates load times by 200% on compatible systems
- Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache for enhanced data transfer
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for PC gaming
- Pros:
- Future-proof technology with mind-blowing speeds for PC applications.
- Exceptional for high-end PCs, content creation, and AI workloads.
- Optimized thermal control and advanced caching.
- Cons:
- Not ideal for PS5: The PS5 only supports PCIe Gen4, meaning this drive would be severely bottlenecked and wouldn’t justify its higher price for console use.
- Likely requires an active cooling solution even on PC due to Gen5 heat.
- User Impressions: PC enthusiasts marvel at its raw speed and performance in high-demand computing tasks. However, PS5 users should look to Gen4 drives for optimal value.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Lexar 1TB Professional NM800 PRO SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM800 PRO is another excellent contender for the Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS5, offering top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance that easily meets and exceeds the PS5’s requirements. It’s built for hardcore gamers and professionals who demand speed and reliability.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Unparalleled speed PCIe Gen4x4 interface: up to 7500MB/s read and 6300MB/s write (NVMe 1.4)
- M.2 2280 form factor
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- 2x faster speeds than PCIe 3.0 SSDs
- Latest 12nm controller providing lower power consumption and longer battery life
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Exceptional Gen4 speeds, ideal for seamless PS5 gaming.
- Highly durable and reliable with no moving parts.
- Low power consumption for better efficiency.
- Fully compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Cons:
- Does not include a heatsink, so you’ll need to purchase one separately for PS5 installation.
- User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise its fast loading times and smooth performance across a wide range of PS5 titles. It’s often highlighted as a reliable, high-performance upgrade.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This innovative external SSD from Lexar stands out with its integrated hub functionality, making it incredibly versatile for creators on the go. While primarily aimed at mobile video recording and quick backups, its fast transfer speeds also make it a handy companion for PS5 users looking for flexible storage.
- Key Features:
- 1TB capacity
- Ultra-compact with a wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly to insert)
- Supports Apple ProRes footage capture
- 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
- Ready for travel: dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Extremely compact and durable (IP65 rated).
- Built-in USB hub adds significant functionality for other devices.
- Fast external transfer speeds.
- Great for media professionals and quick backups.
- Cons:
- External SSD limitations for PS5 (can only store PS5 games, play PS4 games).
- The “wireless” Type-C connector can be a bit tricky to ensure proper connection.
- User Impressions: Users love the convenience of the integrated hub and its rugged design, making it a favorite for outdoor shoots and mobile work. For PS5, its speed and durability are a definite plus for external storage.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About PS5 SSDs
We know you might have a few more questions, so let’s tackle some common queries about upgrading your PS5 storage.
Q1: Why do I need an internal M.2 SSD for my PS5?
A: An internal M.2 SSD allows you to store and directly play PlayStation 5 games, just like the console’s built-in drive. External USB drives can only store PS5 games (which then need to be moved to the internal drive to play) or play PS4 games. An M.2 SSD greatly expands your playable library.
Q2: What are the minimum requirements for a PS5 compatible M.2 SSD?
A: Sony recommends a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. It also needs to be of a specific form factor (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110) and must have a heatsink for proper thermal management.
Q3: Do all Lexar 1TB SSDs meet the PS5 requirements?
A: While many Lexar 1TB SSDs are PCIe Gen4, not all come with a heatsink pre-installed. For those that don’t (like the NM790 without a heatsink or NM800 PRO), you’ll need to purchase and install a compatible heatsink separately. External Lexar SSDs, while excellent for storage, cannot play PS5 games directly. The Lexar NM1090 PRO is a Gen5 drive, which is overkill for PS5 and won’t hit its full speeds on the console.
Q4: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is a relatively straightforward process. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver. Sony provides clear instructions, but generally, it involves removing the PS5’s side cover, unscrewing the expansion slot cover, inserting the SSD into the slot, securing it, and then reassembling. Your PS5 will guide you through formatting the drive upon boot-up.
Q5: Is a heatsink really necessary for an internal PS5 SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely. Sony specifically states that a heatsink is required. The PS5’s internal environment can get quite warm, and an SSD operating at high speeds generates heat. A heatsink prevents thermal throttling, ensuring your drive maintains optimal performance and longevity.
Q6: Can I use an external Lexar SSD to play PS5 games?
A: No, you can’t. External USB drives (like the Lexar ES3 or SL500) can store PS5 games, but to play them, you must transfer them to either the console’s internal storage or an installed M.2 NVMe SSD. However, external SSDs are perfect for playing PS4 games directly.
Q7: What’s the benefit of a higher read speed than 5500 MB/s for PS5?
A: While 5500 MB/s is Sony’s minimum, a drive with higher read speeds (like 7000+ MB/s) can potentially offer slightly faster loading times in some games, especially future titles optimized for even quicker data access. It essentially gives your PS5 more headroom, ensuring peak performance for years to come.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 5’s storage with a high-quality Lexar 1TB SSD is one of the best investments you can make as a gamer. Whether you opt for an internal PCIe Gen4 drive like the NM790 (with or without heatsink) or the NM800 PRO for playing PS5 games directly, or a super-fast external solution like the SL500 for flexible storage and PS4 titles, Lexar has a reliable option for you.
Remember to prioritize a PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a heatsink for internal expansion if you want to play PS5 games directly. This choice is truly the Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS5 for core gaming performance. With any of these Lexar drives, you’ll be able to conquer your game library without constantly juggling installs and uninstalls. Happy gaming!