8 Best Lexar 1TB Nvme SSDs, Compared
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Choosing the right storage upgrade requires matching drive form factors and interface protocols to your computer hardware. If you are looking for a Lexar 1TB NVMe SSD or compatible storage drive, host connection support dictates your actual transfer speeds. The Lexar NS100 1TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD takes the top position by offering 550MB/s read speeds alongside a 480TBW endurance rating for legacy drive bays.
This guide compares 8 products based on the specifications published on their listings. It helps you decide which form factor, bus bandwidth, and enclosure design match your hardware setup.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need to upgrade an older 2.5-inch drive bay Lexar NS100 1TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD It uses a 2.5-inch SATA III interface delivering read speeds up to 550MB/s and 480TBW endurance.
- You want fast PCIe 4.0 internal M.2 storage Lexar NM790 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD This M.2 2280 drive delivers PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7400 MB/s and 1000 TBW endurance.
- You want maximum read speeds for PCIe 5.0 motherboards Lexar NM1090 PRO 1TB PCIe 5.0 SSD It provides PCIe 5.0 bandwidth up to 14,000 MB/s read speeds with dedicated DRAM cache.
- You record mobile video requiring multi-port connectivity Lexar Go 1TB Portable SSD with Hub It offers 1050MB/s read speeds and includes a modular 4-port hub for external connections.
Our 8 picks
Lexar NS100 1TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
Best for: legacy 2.5-inch SATA computer upgrades
- Size
- 1TB (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5"
- Max Read Speed
- 550MB/s
- Dimensions
- 6.45 × 4.15 × 0.65 inches
The Lexar NS100 1TB is an internal solid-state drive built for everyday storage upgrades. It uses a 2.5-inch form factor and a SATA III connection rather than an M.2 slot. It delivers sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s and carries a 480TBW endurance rating. This drive suits you if you want to replace an older mechanical hard drive in a desktop or laptop requiring standard SATA drive bays.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s
- 480TBW endurance rating for 1TB capacity
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- Standard 2.5-inch SATA III interface
Cons
- SATA III speeds capped at 550MB/s rather than NVMe transfer rates
- Sequential write speed not specified in published data
Good fit if
- You need a 2.5-inch SATA III drive to upgrade an older PC or laptop.
- You prioritize a 480TBW endurance rating for daily computing tasks.
Skip if
- You need an M.2 NVMe SSD for high-bandwidth PCIe slots.
- You require transfer speeds higher than 550MB/s.
Verdict: Lexar NS100 1TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD offers reliable SATA III read speeds up to 550MB/s and 480TBW endurance. It works well if your setup uses traditional 2.5-inch drive bays instead of M.2 slots.
Lexar NM790 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
Best for: gamers and creators wanting PCIe 4.0 speeds
- Size
- 1TB (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 4x4, NVMe
- Form Factor
- M.2 2280
- Max Read Speed
- 7400 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 6500 MB/s
The Lexar NM790 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD provides internal storage in an M.2 2280 form factor. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 7400 MB/s and write speeds up to 6500 MB/s over a PCIe Gen 4x4 interface. This drive uses Host Memory Buffer 3.0 rather than onboard DRAM and includes an endurance rating of 1000 TBW. It suits you if you need fast Gen 4 performance for heavy workloads.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7400 MB/s and write speeds up to 6500 MB/s
- High endurance rating of 1000 TBW
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 support
Cons
- Lacks dedicated onboard DRAM cache
- Base model does not include an integrated heatsink
Good fit if
- You need read speeds reaching up to 7400 MB/s.
- You want a 1TB drive with a 1000 TBW endurance rating.
- You prefer lower power consumption through Host Memory Buffer 3.0.
Skip if
- You require dedicated onboard DRAM cache instead of host memory.
- You need a drive that comes with an integrated heatsink.
Verdict: Lexar NM790 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD delivers up to 7400 MB/s read speeds and 1000 TBW endurance. Its Host Memory Buffer 3.0 architecture reduces power consumption compared to DRAM-equipped drives.
Lexar SL500 1TB External SSD
Best for: high-speed external storage and mobile video capture
- Size
- 1TB (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2x2
- Form Factor
- External SSD
- Max Read Speed
- up to 2000MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1800MB/s
The Lexar SL500 1TB External SSD is a pocket-sized solid-state drive built for high-speed file transfers and mobile recording. It utilizes a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface to deliver read speeds up to 2000MB/s and write speeds up to 1800MB/s. Measuring 0.1 inches thin and weighing 0.095 pounds, it suits you if you need fast external storage for laptops, consoles, or direct 4K ProRes capture on supported smartphones.
Pros
- Up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write speeds over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2
- Supports direct Apple ProRes 4K 60FPS recording with iPhone 15 Pro models
- Slim metal enclosure measuring 0.1 inches thick and weighing 0.095 pounds
- Broad compatibility with laptops, consoles, and mobile devices
Cons
- Transfer rates are lower on host systems that lack USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support
- External portable format cannot install directly into internal M.2 motherboard slots
Good fit if
- You need external storage capable of direct Apple ProRes 4K 60FPS video recording.
- You own hardware equipped with a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port for maximum transfer rates.
- You want an ultra-slim metal drive that weighs under 0.1 pounds.
Skip if
- You need an internal M.2 PCIe drive to mount inside a desktop or laptop.
- You primarily use systems limited to standard 10Gbps USB ports.
Verdict: Lexar SL500 1TB External SSD provides 2000MB/s transfer rates and direct 4K ProRes capture in a slim metal build. It delivers reliable portable performance if your system supports USB 3.2 Gen 2x2.
Lexar Go 1TB Portable SSD with Hub
Best for: Apple ProRes mobile 4K video recording
- Size
- 1TB (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen2
- Form Factor
- External Portable
- Max Read Speed
- 1050MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1000MB/s
The Lexar Go 1TB Portable SSD with 4-Port Hub is an ultracompact external drive built for mobile video recording. It features a direct USB Type-C connector for cable-free attachment to your device, alongside an included expansion hub with four USB Type-C ports. Operating over USB 3.2 Gen 2, it delivers sequential transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write. This setup suits you if you record Apple ProRes 4K footage.
Pros
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- Expansion hub includes four USB Type-C ports
- Direct Type-C plug enables cable-free connection
- Supports direct Apple ProRes 4K video recording
Cons
- Peak speed caps at 1050MB/s on USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Direct connector requires firm manual pressure to seat fully
Good fit if
- You capture Apple ProRes 4K video directly to external storage.
- You need extra USB Type-C ports for accessories during shoots.
- You want a cableless drive that plugs directly into your device.
Skip if
- You require drive speeds faster than 1050MB/s.
- You need an internal M.2 NVMe drive for a PC motherboard.
Verdict: Lexar Go 1TB Portable SSD with 4-Port Hub delivers 1050MB/s read speeds and modular multi-port expansion for mobile 4K ProRes workflows. It gives you flexible connectivity without needing separate adapters.
Lexar ES3 1TB Portable SSD
Best for: pocketable everyday backups across modern USB-C devices
- Size
- 1TB (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Max Read Speed
- 1050 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1000 MB/s
The Lexar ES3 1TB Portable SSD gives you pocket-sized external storage via a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface. It delivers transfer speeds up to 1050 MB/s read and 1000 MB/s write while weighing just 42 grams with a 10.5mm profile. It includes 256-bit AES encryption and broad device support. This drive fits your workflow if you need dependable, lightweight portable capacity for transferring media between modern phones, consoles, and laptops.
Pros
- Up to 1050 MB/s read and 1000 MB/s write speeds over USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Compact 10.5mm thick profile weighing only 42 grams
- Included Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Broad compatibility spanning PCs, Android devices, modern consoles, and cameras
Cons
- MagSafe attachment is not supported on this model
- Incompatible with iPhone 14 and older smartphone models
- Speeds drop on host systems that lack USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight external drive under 50 grams for fast everyday transfers.
- You want built-in 256-bit AES software encryption for your portable files.
- You plan to transfer data across modern USB-C laptops, phones, and gaming consoles.
Skip if
- You need MagSafe magnetic mounting for mobile video recording rigs.
- You use an iPhone 14 or older mobile device.
- You require speeds exceeding 1050 MB/s from a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 or internal drive.
Verdict: Lexar ES3 1TB Portable SSD is a slim, 42-gram external drive that balances 1050 MB/s transfer speeds with built-in data encryption for cross-platform workflows. It delivers dependable on-the-go storage for USB-C laptops, gaming consoles, and modern phones without adding pocket bulk.
Lexar NM1090 PRO 1TB PCIe 5.0 SSD
Best for: PCIe 5.0 gaming and AI PC builds
- Size
- 1TB (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 5
- Max Read Speed
- 14,000 MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 10,000 MB/s
- Cache Type
- DRAM Cache, SLC Dynamic Cache
The Lexar NM1090 PRO 1TB is an internal M.2 2280 drive using the PCIe 5.0 interface. It delivers sequential speeds up to 14,000 MB/s read and 10,000 MB/s write, powered by a 6nm controller, a dedicated DRAM cache, and an SLC dynamic cache. It also supports Microsoft DirectStorage. This drive suits you if you run modern PCIe 5.0 systems for gaming, AI workloads, and heavy file transfers requiring maximum bandwidth.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 read speeds up to 14,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 10,000 MB/s
- Equipped with dedicated DRAM cache and dynamic SLC cache
- Uses an energy-efficient 6nm controller
- Supports Microsoft DirectStorage for fast game loading
Cons
- Requires a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot to reach rated transfer rates
- Does not include an integrated heatsink like the alternative style option
Good fit if
- You have a motherboard with an available PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot.
- You run AI inferencing or demanding PC games requiring high throughput.
- You want an internal drive with dedicated onboard DRAM cache.
Skip if
- You only have PCIe 3.0 or PCIe 4.0 motherboards.
- You need a portable external drive with USB connectivity.
Verdict: Lexar NM1090 PRO 1TB PCIe 5.0 SSD delivers elite PCIe 5.0 bandwidth up to 14,000 MB/s read with dedicated DRAM cache for cutting-edge desktop builds. It is a focused upgrade if your motherboard supports the Gen 5 standard.
Lexar TouchLock 1TB NFC Portable SSD
Best for: NFC-secured mobile backups on iPhone
- Size
- 1TB (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Form Factor
- Portable SSD
- Dimensions
- 3.37 × 2.09 × 0.28 inches
The Lexar TouchLock 1TB is a compact external SSD designed for mobile hardware security. You authenticate access via one-touch NFC using a mobile phone, backed by 128-bit AES hardware encryption. The 0.28-inch slim body attaches magnetically to an iPhone and includes two-meter drop protection. If you need portable storage that remains unreadable until unlocked with your smartphone, this drive secures your data on the move.
Pros
- Hardware 128-bit AES encryption with NFC mobile authentication
- Two-meter drop protection rating
- Slim 0.28-inch profile with magnetic iPhone attachment
- Includes Lexar App support for automated backups
Cons
- Requires an NFC-capable mobile device to unlock before use
- Uses 128-bit AES encryption rather than 256-bit AES
- Read and write transfer rates are not listed in published specs
Good fit if
- You want an external drive that attaches magnetically to an iPhone.
- You require hardware-encrypted storage unlocked via smartphone NFC.
- You need physical drop resistance up to two meters.
Skip if
- You do not carry an NFC-enabled smartphone to unlock the drive.
- You need an internal M.2 NVMe SSD for a PC build.
- You require enterprise-grade 256-bit AES encryption.
Verdict: Lexar TouchLock 1TB NFC Encrypted Portable SSD provides secure mobile storage with convenient phone-based NFC unlocking and magnetic phone mounting. It is an effective portable option when physical data protection and pocketable dimensions take precedence over raw speed specifications.
Lexar ES5 1TB MagSafe Portable SSD
Best for: direct smartphone video recording and rugged transport
- Size
- 1TB (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Interface
- USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2
- Form Factor
- External
- Max Read Speed
- Up to 2000MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 2000MB/s
The Lexar ES5 is a 1TB portable SSD designed with a USB-C interface and a magnetic MagSafe-compatible mount. It delivers read and write speeds up to 2000MB/s when connected to USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 hosts. The enclosure carries an IP65 rating against water and dust, with 3-meter drop resistance. It suits you if you record direct mobile video footage or need high-speed external storage attached to your phone.
Pros
- Up to 2000MB/s sequential read and write speeds
- MagSafe-compatible magnetic mounting with included metal ring
- Direct recording support for 4K 120FPS Apple ProRes and 8K 30FPS video
- IP65 water and dust resistance plus 3-meter drop protection
Cons
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 hardware to achieve maximum 2000MB/s speeds
- Transfers at lower speeds on Mac systems lacking Gen 2x2 support
Good fit if
- You want to attach high-speed storage directly to a compatible phone
- You record high-framerate Apple ProRes or 8K mobile video
- You require an external drive rated for outdoor dust, water, and drops
Skip if
- You need an internal PCIe M.2 NVMe SSD for a motherboard slot
- You work primarily on Mac hardware that limits USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 throughput
Verdict: Lexar ES5 1TB MagSafe Portable SSD provides fast 2000MB/s external storage with rugged IP65 protection and convenient phone attachment. It serves as an efficient drive for direct mobile video capture over USB-C.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexar NS100 1TB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD | Lexar NM790 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD | Lexar SL500 1TB External SSD | Lexar Go 1TB Portable SSD with Hub | Lexar ES3 1TB Portable SSD | Lexar NM1090 PRO 1TB PCIe 5.0 SSD | Lexar TouchLock 1TB NFC Portable SSD | Lexar ES5 1TB MagSafe Portable SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB |
| Interface | SATA III | PCIe Gen 4x4, NVMe | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 | USB 3.2 Gen2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | PCIe Gen 5 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 |
| Form Factor | 2.5" | M.2 2280 | External SSD | External Portable | Portable | not specified | Portable SSD | External |
| Max Read Speed | 550MB/s | 7400 MB/s | up to 2000MB/s | 1050MB/s | 1050 MB/s | 14,000 MB/s | not specified | Up to 2000MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not specified | 6500 MB/s | 1800MB/s | 1000MB/s | 1000 MB/s | 10,000 MB/s | not specified | 2000MB/s |
| Cache Type | not specified | Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 | not specified | not specified | not specified | DRAM Cache, SLC Dynamic Cache | not specified | not specified |
| Size | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB |
| Host Interface | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | USB-C |
| Dimensions | 6.45 × 4.15 × 0.65 inches | not specified | 3.3 × 2.1 × 0.1 inches | not specified | 3.94 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches | 6.49 × 4.13 × 0.59 inches | 3.37 × 2.09 × 0.28 inches | not specified |
| Weight | not specified | not specified | 1.52 ounces | not specified | 1.59 ounces | 1.6 ounces | not specified | 3.84 ounces |
| Color | Gray | Black | Black | Silver | Silver | Not Available | not specified | not specified |
| Model | LNS100-1TRBNA | LNM790X001T-RNNNU | LSL500X001T-RNBNU | LSL400S001T-RNSNU | LES3XXX001T-RNSAU | LNM109P001T-RNNNU | 0843367143399 | LES5XXX001T-RNWNU |
How to Choose the Right Lexar SSD
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Check Drive Cache Architecture
SSDs manage address tables using either onboard DRAM or system memory. A drive with Host Memory Buffer technology uses a tiny fraction of your computer RAM instead of dedicated onboard memory chips. This architecture keeps drive weight minimal and reduces active power consumption. For example, the Lexar NM790 uses Host Memory Buffer 3.0 to sustain high bandwidth without dedicated DRAM. If you build a power-conscious desktop or compact system, verify whether an internal drive relies on host memory or carries its own dedicated cache.
-
Match External USB Standards
Portable SSD performance depends directly on the USB specification of your host port. External drives rated for 2000MB/s require a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connection operating across two data lanes. If you plug a 2000MB/s drive into a standard 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, your throughput tops out near 1050MB/s. The Lexar SL500 reaches its full 2000MB/s potential only on compatible Gen 2x2 ports. Check your motherboard, laptop, or camera technical specifications before buying to avoid unexpected interface bottlenecks.
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Evaluate Enclosure Ingress Protection
If you transport data into fieldwork environments, evaluate physical ingress ratings alongside basic storage capacity. Drives designed for field capture often carry certified ingress protection against dust and liquid hazards. For instance, the Lexar ES5 features an IP65 rating, indicating complete protection against dust ingress and resistance to low-pressure water spray. Standard metal or plastic enclosures lack certified sealing against moisture. Check your typical operating environment and prioritize sealed enclosures if you record outdoor footage or carry backups through unpredictable weather.
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Review Data Access Security
External storage drives handle data protection through software passwords or direct hardware authentication. Built-in encryption protects confidential files from unauthorized inspection if your drive gets misplaced. Some portable units introduce physical authentication methods to remove manual password typing on touchscreens. The Lexar TouchLock integrates NFC unlocking so you can grant drive access using your phone directly. When choosing a portable drive for sensitive work files, evaluate whether you prefer standard software-based encryption utilities or contactless physical hardware security.
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Consider Integrated Port Expansion
Mobile recording setups often leave you short on available ports when connecting power, microphones, and storage simultaneously. Certain portable SSDs solve this by incorporating modular multi-port hubs directly into their design. The Lexar Go includes a 4-port hub that delivers 1050MB/s read speeds while providing extra device connectivity. If your workflow involves direct smartphone recording or compact tablet setups, check whether you need integrated accessory connections or prefer a standalone drive without additional hub hardware.
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Verify Total Bytes Written
Drive longevity is measured by Terabytes Written, which specifies the cumulative data volume you can write before memory cells degrade. High-endurance drives handle extensive write cycles, which matters if you frequently install large software packages or render video files. For basic desktop upgrades, standard ratings are sufficient. The Lexar NS100 provides a 480TBW endurance rating alongside its 550MB/s read speed. Check the manufacturer TBW rating against your anticipated weekly data throughput to confirm the drive matches your long-term usage pattern.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install the Lexar NS100 in an M.2 NVMe slot?
No, you cannot install the Lexar NS100 into an M.2 slot. It is a traditional 2.5-inch SATA III drive that requires standard SATA data and power cables rather than an M.2 connection. If your computer only features M.2 2280 slots, you must select an internal drive like the NM790 or NM1090 PRO instead.
How durable is the Lexar NM790 1TB SSD over long-term use?
The Lexar NM790 1TB provides an endurance rating of 1000 TBW, which indicates significant write longevity for heavy daily workloads. This M.2 2280 drive operates across a PCIe 4.0 interface and utilizes Host Memory Buffer 3.0 architecture. This design helps minimize overall power draw while maintaining sustained performance for demanding gaming setups or content creation tasks.
Which Lexar 1TB portable SSD offers water and dust resistance?
The Lexar ES5 1TB MagSafe Portable SSD features an IP65 protection rating for resistance against dust and water exposure. It connects to host hardware over a USB-C interface and delivers transfer speeds reaching up to 2000MB/s. Its magnetic attachment design lets you secure it directly to compatible smartphones during mobile video capture sessions.
What hardware do you need to reach 2000MB/s on the Lexar SL500?
You need a computer or device equipped with a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port to achieve the Lexar SL500 1TB drive's maximum 2000MB/s transfer rate. Connecting the drive to standard USB-C ports with lower bandwidth will cap your actual throughput. The external drive also supports direct 4K ProRes video recording when attached to compatible mobile hardware.
How does the Lexar TouchLock 1TB protect stored files?
The Lexar TouchLock 1TB secures your data using integrated NFC hardware encryption rather than standard typed passwords. You unlock the external drive by tapping your compatible phone against its NFC sensor. The drive also includes magnetic phone mounting capabilities, making it practical for mobile phone backups when physical device security is your primary operational requirement.
What makes the Lexar Go 1TB suitable for mobile video recording?
The Lexar Go 1TB Portable SSD includes a modular 4-port hub that expands your connectivity while shooting footage. Delivering read speeds up to 1050MB/s, it supports direct Apple ProRes 4K video recording on mobile devices. The bundled hub allows you to attach extra accessories without having to carry or configure separate third-party USB-C adapters.
How much does the Lexar ES3 1TB Portable SSD weigh?
The Lexar ES3 1TB Portable SSD weighs approximately 42 grams, which equals roughly 0.099 pounds. It features a compact silver enclosure measuring under four inches long and under 0.4 inches thick. Despite its small profile, the drive delivers read speeds up to 1050 MB/s and includes built-in data encryption for safeguarding files across USB-C devices.