Are you looking to give your computer a serious speed boost without breaking the bank? If you’ve been searching for a reliable storage solution, chances are you’ve heard about Solid State Drives (SSDs). They’re a game-changer compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), offering lightning-fast boot times, quicker application loading, and snappier overall performance. Many people are specifically looking for a Lexar Amazon best seller for 250 GB SSD, a sweet spot for affordability and decent storage.
While Lexar is a fantastic brand, Amazon’s best-seller lists often feature a mix of top-performing Lexar and SanDisk drives across various capacities. In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into 10 popular Lexar and SanDisk SSDs that are consistently rated highly by users on Amazon. We’ll explore options around the 250GB/256GB mark, as well as other capacities and form factors (like portable and NVMe) that you might find incredibly useful, whether you’re upgrading an old laptop, building a new PC, or just need reliable external storage.
Let’s break down these top picks to help you find the perfect SSD for your needs!
The Best Lexar & SanDisk SSDs on Amazon
Here’s our rundown of 10 excellent SSDs that users love, including several that fit the bill as a Lexar Amazon best seller for 250 GB SSD (or very close to it!) and other high-demand options.
1. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
This Lexar NS100 256GB SSD is a fantastic entry-point if you’re looking to revitalize an aging desktop or laptop. It offers a significant performance jump over traditional hard drives, making your everyday computing experience much smoother. With its robust, shock-resistant design, you won’t have to worry about bumps and jostles affecting your precious data. It’s truly a strong contender for anyone seeking a Lexar Amazon best seller for 250 GB SSD for internal upgrades.
Key Features:
– Upgrade for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s
– More reliable than traditional hard drives due to no moving parts
– Shock and vibration resistant
– [256GB] 120TBW (Total Bytes Written) endurance
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Excellent value for money for performance boost
– Simple installation process for most systems
– Noticeably improves boot and application load times
– Durable with good shock resistance
Cons:
– SATA III speeds are not as fast as NVMe alternatives
– Lower capacity might be limiting for extensive game libraries or large media files
User Impressions:
Customers frequently praise this SSD for its straightforward installation and the dramatic speed improvements it brings to older machines. Many report their laptops feeling brand new again, highlighting its reliability and affordability as key selling points.
2. SANDISK SSD Plus 250GB Internal Solid State Drive – SATA III
If you’re on the hunt for a 250GB internal SSD, the SanDisk SSD Plus is another top-tier choice that’s often an Amazon best seller. Known for its reliability and easy upgrade path, this drive provides a noticeable bump in performance for booting up your system and launching applications. It’s a great alternative to the Lexar NS100 if you’re comparing similar capacities and seeking excellent value.
Key Features:
– Easy upgrade for fast boots and application launches
– High capacities available for applications and large media files
– Sequential Read speeds of up to 545MB/s and write speeds of up to 515MB/s (for 1-2TB models)
– Shock-resistant for proven durability – even if you drop your computer
Pros:
– Reputable brand with a strong track record
– Slightly faster read/write speeds compared to some budget SATA SSDs
– Excellent durability and shock resistance
– Very affordable for a performance upgrade
Cons:
– Performance might be limited by SATA III interface for cutting-edge systems
– Not ideal for intensive, sustained high-speed data transfers compared to NVMe
User Impressions:
Users consistently highlight how easy this SSD is to install, even for first-timers. They love the quick boot times and smoother multitasking it provides, often calling it a “no-brainer” upgrade for older computers.
3. Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
For those on a super tight budget or who only need a small, dedicated boot drive, the Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD is an excellent option. While not a Lexar Amazon best seller for 250 GB SSD, it offers the same reliable performance and build quality as its larger sibling at an even more accessible price point. It’s perfect for breathing new life into an old netbook or as a primary drive for a basic workstation where space isn’t a huge concern.
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 endurance
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Extremely affordable entry into SSD performance
– Same reliable and durable design as the 256GB model
– Great for operating systems and essential applications
– Simple to install and get running
Cons:
– Very limited storage capacity; might fill up quickly
– Not suitable for storing many games or large media files
User Impressions:
Reviewers often recommend this 128GB drive as a fantastic budget upgrade. They appreciate the noticeable speed increase for everyday tasks and its reliability, despite its smaller size. It’s frequently chosen as a dedicated OS drive.
4. SanDisk 250GB SSD Plus M.2 NVMe SSD – PCIE Gen 3.0
Stepping up from SATA, this SanDisk 250GB SSD Plus M.2 NVMe drive offers significantly faster speeds for modern systems that support the M.2 slot. While it’s not a Lexar, it’s a stellar SanDisk option that perfectly matches the 250GB capacity target, delivering a noticeable boost in read/write performance over SATA drives. If your motherboard has an M.2 slot, this is a fantastic internal upgrade for rapid system response.
Key Features:
– Speedy PCIe Gen 3.0 performance up to 2,400 MB/s, up to 5x faster than SATA drives
– Up to 250GB storage capacity for photos, videos, music, and documents
– Directly access your SSD’s health reports using the Western Digital Dashboard
– Fits and installs easily with a one-screw application for many desktops and laptops with a PCIe Gen M.2 2280 slot
Pros:
– Dramatically faster than traditional SATA SSDs
– Compact M.2 form factor saves space inside your PC
– Easy installation for compatible systems
– SanDisk reliability and Western Digital Dashboard for monitoring
Cons:
– Requires an M.2 slot on your motherboard (check compatibility)
– PCIe Gen 3.0 isn’t as fast as newer Gen 4.0 NVMe drives
User Impressions:
Customers rave about the incredible speed difference this NVMe drive provides, especially for boot times and heavy applications. They find the installation straightforward in compatible systems and appreciate the compact design.
5. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
If you’re looking for more space than a Lexar Amazon best seller for 250 GB SSD but still want the reliability and affordability of the NS100 series, this 512GB model is an excellent choice. It offers ample room for your operating system, essential applications, and a good selection of games or media files. It maintains the same robust build quality and speed benefits that make the NS100 line so popular for mainstream users.
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 endurance
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Doubles the capacity of 250GB options for more storage flexibility
– Still very affordable for the capacity and performance
– Reliable, durable, and easy to install
– Slightly improved sequential read speeds compared to smaller NS100 models
Cons:
– Still a SATA III drive, so it won’t reach NVMe speeds
– May not be enough for hardcore gamers with massive libraries
User Impressions:
Users consistently report significant performance upgrades for their systems, noting the extra space is a welcome bonus. They praise its consistent performance, ease of cloning, and overall value as a solid internal drive.
6. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Stepping away from internal drives, this Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD is a versatile beast designed for creators on the move. While it’s a different animal than a Lexar Amazon best seller for 250 GB SSD, its innovation and popularity make it worth a look if you need robust external storage. Not only does it offer rapid data transfers, but it also includes a built-in hub, making it incredibly practical for mobile workflows.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact and portable for spontaneous creativity
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly to ensure drive is completely inserted)
– Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage with ease
– Portable SSD plus a hub with four USB Type-C ports, adapters, and cables for ultimate flexibility
– Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording
– Dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Incredible speed for portable storage, ideal for videographers
– Integrated hub adds immense utility, reducing dongle clutter
– Extremely rugged build quality (IP65, drop resistant)
– Excellent for direct recording from compatible cameras/iPhones
Cons:
– Premium price point due to features and ruggedness
– Wireless Type-C connection might be less secure than a cabled one for some
– Overkill for basic file storage needs
User Impressions:
Creators are thrilled with the performance and versatility of this drive, especially the integrated hub. They appreciate its ruggedness for fieldwork and the ability to directly record high-quality footage. It’s seen as a powerful tool for professionals.
7. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Drive
If you’re a hardcore gamer, a professional content creator, or simply demand the absolute fastest internal storage, the Lexar 2TB NM790 NVMe SSD is in a league of its own. Far beyond the capacities of a typical 250GB SSD, this drive offers breathtaking Gen4 speeds and impressive endurance, making it a future-proof investment. It’s a top-tier choice for high-performance builds and even compatible with PlayStation 5 for expanded game storage.
Key Features:
– [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW
– 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 speed and seamless performance
– Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
– Compatible with PlayStation 5
– Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Blazing-fast Gen4 NVMe speeds for ultimate performance
– High endurance rating for heavy workloads
– Energy efficient, good for laptops and power-conscious desktops
– Massive 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries and large files
– PS5 compatibility is a huge bonus for console gamers
Cons:
– Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard (newer systems only)
– Significantly more expensive than SATA or Gen3 NVMe drives
– Overkill for basic office or web browsing tasks
User Impressions:
Gamers and professionals consistently praise the NM790 for its incredible speed, noting drastically reduced load times and smoother workflows. Its PS5 compatibility is a frequent highlight, and many appreciate its power efficiency.
8. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD is all about speed and portability in a sleek package. This isn’t your average external drive; with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, it can rival some internal drives for sheer transfer rates. If you need a vast amount of fast, portable storage for large projects, 4K video, or even gaming on the go, this drive delivers. Its compatibility with iPhone 15 Pro for ProRes recording is also a huge plus for mobile videographers.
Key Features:
– Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
– Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design
– Supports Apple ProRes recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max
– Wide compatibility with mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more
– Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures
– Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Extremely fast portable SSD for demanding tasks
– Ultra-slim and lightweight, highly portable
– Robust metal design and excellent thermal management
– iPhone 15 Pro ProRes recording support is a major advantage
– Good compatibility with various devices
Cons:
– Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for full speeds (otherwise, speeds will be lower)
– Premium price for such high performance and capacity
– Not as rugged as the ‘Armor’ or ‘Professional Go’ series
User Impressions:
Users are impressed by the SL500’s speed and compact form factor. iPhone 15 Pro users particularly love the direct ProRes recording feature. Many highlight its ease of use and the included encryption software for data security.
9. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Much like its 1TB counterpart, the Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub combines massive storage with extreme versatility and ruggedness. This 2TB version means you get even more space for extensive projects, high-resolution media, or a large collection of games, all while benefiting from the built-in Type-C hub and robust, travel-ready design. It’s a powerhouse for professionals who need both capacity and connectivity in one portable solution.
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
– The portable SSD plus the hub, which has its own four USB Type-C ports, along with included adapters and cables, gives you the 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
Pros:
– Huge 2TB capacity for professional use
– Built-in USB-C hub is incredibly convenient for creators
– Excellent blend of speed, ruggedness (IP65, drop-resistant), and portability
– Ideal for direct recording and quick backups of large files
– Comprehensive accessory pack (cables, adapters)
Cons:
– High price point due to premium features and capacity
– The wireless Type-C connection needs to be firmly inserted for best results
– Performance is excellent but not as fast as USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives like the SL500
User Impressions:
Professionals especially value the 2TB capacity for extensive work, along with the integrated hub for simplifying their mobile setups. Its ruggedness provides peace of mind when working outdoors or traveling.
10. Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD lives up to its name, offering an incredibly durable design coupled with blistering speeds. If you need a high-capacity external drive that can withstand the harshest environments while still delivering top-tier performance (up to 2000MB/s), this is your go-to. It’s IP66 rated for water and dust resistance and built to survive significant drops, making it perfect for adventurers and field professionals.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write speeds
– Rated IP66 to protect against both water and dust, rugged design withstands up to 3-meter drops
– Supports Apple ProRes recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max
– Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures
– Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles, and more
– Includes Lexar DataShield, a 256-bit AES encryption advanced security solution
– Includes a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Extreme ruggedness (IP66, 3-meter drop resistance) for outdoor/field use
– Top-tier USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds for fast transfers
– Excellent thermal management for sustained performance
– Comprehensive compatibility and iPhone ProRes recording support
– Includes encryption and versatile connectivity cable
Cons:
– High price reflecting its advanced features and durability
– Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speed
– While portable, it’s slightly bulkier than the SL500 due to its rugged casing
User Impressions:
Adventure photographers, videographers, and anyone working in challenging conditions absolutely love the Armor 700 for its resilience. They report no performance issues even in harsh environments and appreciate the peace of mind its ruggedness provides.
Frequently Asked Questions About SSDs
Q1: What’s the main difference between an SSD and an HDD?
A1: The biggest difference is speed and moving parts. SSDs (Solid State Drives) use flash memory and have no moving parts, making them much faster, more durable, and quieter than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), which rely on spinning platters and read/write heads. SSDs offer quicker boot times, faster application loading, and overall snappier performance.
Q2: Why should I upgrade to an SSD, especially a 250GB/256GB one?
A2: Upgrading to an SSD, even a 250GB/256GB model, can dramatically improve your computer’s responsiveness. It’s often the most impactful upgrade for an older machine. You’ll experience significantly faster boot-up times, applications will launch quicker, and file transfers will be much snappier. A 250GB/256GB SSD is a great starting point for your operating system and essential programs, offering excellent value.
Q3: What do SATA III and NVMe mean?
A3: These refer to the interface technology SSDs use to connect to your computer.
* SATA III: This is an older, more common interface, typically found in 2.5-inch drives. It offers good speeds (up to around 600MB/s) and is compatible with most older laptops and desktops.
* NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express): This is a newer, much faster protocol designed specifically for SSDs that connects via the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) slot, often in a compact M.2 form factor. NVMe drives can offer speeds many times faster than SATA SSDs (e.g., 2000MB/s to 7000MB/s+), making them ideal for high-performance tasks, gaming, and content creation.
Q4: How do I know if a Lexar (or SanDisk) SSD is compatible with my computer?
A4:
* 2.5-inch SATA SSDs (like the Lexar NS100 or SanDisk SSD Plus): These are generally compatible with any laptop or desktop that currently uses a 2.5-inch HDD or has an available 2.5-inch drive bay and a SATA port.
* M.2 NVMe SSDs (like the SanDisk 250GB M.2 NVMe or Lexar NM790): These require an M.2 slot on your motherboard that supports NVMe (not all M.2 slots support NVMe; some are SATA only). Check your computer’s motherboard manual or specifications to confirm compatibility.
Q5: Is 250GB/256GB enough storage for my needs?
A5: It depends on what you’re using it for.
* Enough for: Operating system, essential software, light gaming, and general document/web browsing. It’s perfect as a primary boot drive in conjunction with a larger HDD for bulk storage.
* Might be limiting for: Extensive game libraries (modern games can be 50-100GB+), large media files (4K videos, extensive photo collections), or professional applications requiring lots of scratch disk space. In these cases, 500GB, 1TB, or 2TB options might be better.
Q6: What is TBW (Total Bytes Written) and why does it matter?
A6: TBW is a measure of an SSD’s endurance – how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it’s expected to fail. For example, a 256GB SSD with 120TBW means you can write 120 terabytes of data to it before reaching its expected limit. For average users, this number is incredibly high and most SSDs will last many years before reaching their TBW limit. It’s more of a concern for heavy-duty users who constantly write massive amounts of data.
Q7: Are portable SSDs worth it compared to internal ones?
A7: Absolutely! Portable SSDs offer incredible convenience, speed, and durability for external storage. They’re perfect for:
* Fast backups of large files.
* Storing and editing media on the go (photos, 4K video).
* Expanding game storage for consoles or PCs without opening them up.
* Securely carrying sensitive data.
While internal SSDs boost your system’s core performance, portable SSDs extend that speed and reliability to your external storage needs.
Conclusion
Whether you were specifically searching for a Lexar Amazon best seller for 250 GB SSD or just exploring options to supercharge your system, we hope this guide has shed some light on the fantastic range of Lexar and SanDisk SSDs available. From budget-friendly internal upgrades that bring old machines back to life, to lightning-fast NVMe drives for gamers and creators, and incredibly rugged portable solutions for professionals, there’s an SSD here for every need and budget.
Remember, a fast SSD is one of the best investments you can make for your computing experience. Happy upgrading!