Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 vs Lexar SL500 2TB Portable SSD (2026): Key Differences
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This comparison covers the lexar nm790 2tb pcie 4 0 vs sl500 2tb portable SSD. Both drives offer 2TB of storage and share a black finish. The main difference lies in their design and connection type. The NM790 is an internal M.2 drive for desktops and laptops. The SL500 is an external portable unit. You need to choose based on whether you require internal installation or external mobility.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD | Lexar SL500 2TB Portable SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen 4x4 | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 |
| Form Factor | M.2 Internal | External Portable |
| Dimensions | 3.15 x 0.87 x 0.08 inches | 3.15 x 2.76 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 0.35 ounces | 1.52 ounces |
| Max Read Speed | not listed | Up to 2000MB/s |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD if
- You are installing the drive inside a desktop or laptop.
- You need a compact internal drive that fits in an M.2 slot.
- You prioritize a lighter weight for internal component builds.
Choose Lexar SL500 2TB Portable SSD if
- You need a portable drive for external use.
- You want to connect the drive via USB to multiple devices.
- You require a durable metal case with thermal control for high speeds.
Verdict: Choose the NM790 if you are building or upgrading a PC and need an internal NVMe drive. Pick the SL500 if you need a rugged, portable external drive for transferring files between devices or consoles.
Internal Speed vs Portable Design
Interface speed
The Lexar NM790 uses a PCIe Gen 4x4 interface, which connects directly to your motherboard. This path offers high bandwidth for internal storage tasks. The Lexar SL500 relies on USB 3.2 Gen 2x2. It lists a max read speed of 2000MB/s and a write speed of 1800MB/s. While these numbers are fast for an external drive, the PCIe 4.0 connection in the NM790 is designed for lower latency and higher throughput within a system. For raw internal data movement, the PCIe interface provides a more direct route to your CPU and RAM than the USB controller in the portable unit.
Form factor
You must consider how each drive fits into your setup. The NM790 is an M.2 drive with dimensions of 3.15 inches in length, 0.87 inches in width, and just 0.08 inches in height. It is a slim stick designed to slot into a motherboard M.2 key. The SL500 is an external SSD with a metal casing. It measures 3.15 inches long, 2.76 inches wide, and 1.97 inches high. The SL500 is built to be carried in a pocket or bag. The NM790 requires an open slot inside a computer case or laptop. One is for installation; the other is for transport.
Weight and portability
Portability depends on your usage habits. The NM790 weighs only 0.35 ounces. It is extremely light but lacks a protective case. You handle it carefully when installing it. The SL500 weighs 1.52 ounces. It includes a durable metal enclosure that protects the drive during travel. The SL500 is designed to be moved frequently. You can plug it into a laptop, phone, or console and carry it easily. The NM790 is not designed for this level of physical movement. If you need a drive that survives being in a backpack, the SL500 is the practical choice due to its ruggedized housing.
Device compatibility
Compatibility varies significantly between the two. The SL500 supports Apple ProRes recording, allowing you to shoot 4K 60FPS video directly to the drive on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. It also works with Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, laptops, and cameras. The NM790 is a standard NVMe drive. It is compatible with desktops and laptops that have an M.2 slot. It does not have the specific mobile video recording support that the SL500 offers. If you need to record high-bitrate video on a smartphone, the SL500 is the only viable option. For standard PC storage expansion, the NM790 is the standard choice.
Thermal management
Heat dissipation is critical for sustained performance. The SL500 features a unique thermal control design. This metal enclosure helps maintain optimal temperatures even at top speeds, ensuring performance does not throttle during long transfers. The NM790 data does not list specific thermal management features or heatsink options. As a bare M.2 drive, it relies on your system’s airflow or an added heatsink to stay cool. Without active cooling or a robust chassis, the NM790 may throttle in a small, poorly ventilated laptop. The SL500’s design explicitly addresses thermal retention for consistent speed.
Choose the right Lexar drive for you
Desktop builders needing fast internal storage
The NM790 connects via PCIe Gen 4x4 directly to your motherboard. This interface provides the high bandwidth required for demanding internal tasks. Its M.2 form factor fits standard slots, making it ideal for upgrading your primary drive without adding external clutter.
Users wanting portable storage for mobile devices
The SL500 features a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connection for external use. It supports direct 4K 60FPS recording from iPhone 15 Pro models. Its slim metal design fits in your pocket, offering wide compatibility with laptops, cameras, and gaming consoles for easy file transfers.
Content creators needing high-speed external transfers
This drive delivers up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write speeds over USB. The unique thermal control design maintains optimal temperatures during high-speed operations. This ensures consistent performance when moving large media files between your computer and external devices efficiently.
The products compared
Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD
Best for: Internal PC storage upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- PCIe Gen 4x4
- Form Factor
- M.2
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.08 inches
- Weight
- 0.35 ounces
View on Amazon: Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD Affiliate link
The Lexar NM790 is a 2TB M.2 NVMe drive built for PCIe Gen 4x4 interfaces. It measures 3.15 by 0.87 by 0.08 inches and weighs just 0.35 ounces. This compact form factor fits standard desktop motherboards and compatible laptops. You get high-speed internal storage without the bulk of external enclosures. It suits users who need reliable, fast storage for their primary system drive.
Pros
- 2TB storage capacity for large files
- PCIe Gen 4x4 interface for high bandwidth
- Lightweight M.2 form factor at 0.35 ounces
- Compact dimensions of 3.15 x 0.87 x 0.08 inches
Cons
- Requires a motherboard with an M.2 slot
- No included external enclosure or cable
- Limited to PCIe 4.0 speeds
Good fit if
- You need a high-capacity internal drive for a PC build
- You have a motherboard with an available M.2 slot
- You prefer a lightweight, low-profile storage solution
Skip if
- You need a portable drive for external use
- Your system only supports SATA or older PCIe standards
- You want a plug-and-play external SSD with a cable
Verdict: Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD is a compact internal drive for users building or upgrading a PC with an M.2 slot. It delivers high capacity in a small form factor.
Lexar SL500 2TB Portable SSD
Best for: Portable storage for mobile devices and consoles
- Storage Capacity
- 2TB
- Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2x2
- Form Factor
- External SSD
- Max Read Speed
- 2000MB/s
- Max Write Speed
- 1800MB/s
- Compatibility
- Laptop, PS5
View on Amazon: Lexar SL500 2TB Portable SSD Affiliate link
The Lexar SL500 is a portable external SSD with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connectivity. It delivers sequential read speeds up to 2000MB/s and write speeds up to 1800MB/s. The drive features a slim metal design that weighs just 1.52 ounces. It supports direct recording to Apple ProRes on compatible iPhones. This drive suits users needing fast external storage for mobile devices or consoles.
Pros
- USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface for high-speed data transfer
- Sequential read speeds up to 2000MB/s
- Slim metal build weighing 1.52 ounces
- Supports Apple ProRes recording up to 4K 60FPS
Cons
- External form factor requires a cable connection
- No internal PCIe interface for direct motherboard installation
- Speeds may drop on systems without USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support
Good fit if
- You need fast external storage for iPhone 15 or 16 series
- You want to expand storage for PS5 or Xbox consoles
- You require a lightweight drive for mobile workflows
Skip if
- You need an internal M.2 drive for desktop upgrades
- Your computer only supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 or older
- You prefer a drive with built-in hardware encryption
Verdict: Lexar SL500 2TB Portable SSD provides reliable external storage with high USB transfer speeds. It fits users who need portable capacity for mobile devices or gaming consoles rather than internal system expansion.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexar NM790 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD | Lexar SL500 2TB Portable SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 2TB | 2TB |
| Interface | PCIe Gen 4x4 | USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 |
| Form Factor | M.2 | External SSD |
| Max Read Speed | not stated | 2000MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not stated | 1800MB/s |
| Compatibility | not stated | Laptop, PS5 |
| Size | 2TB | 2TB |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 0.87 × 0.08 inches | 3.15 × 2.76 × 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 0.35 ounces | 1.52 ounces |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | LNM790X002T-RNNNG | LSL500X002T-RNBNU |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Lexar NM790 as a portable external drive?
No, the NM790 is designed strictly for internal use. It features an M.2 form factor that connects directly to a motherboard via PCIe 4.0. You cannot plug it into a USB port without a specialized enclosure. The SL500 is the correct choice if you need a drive that connects via USB for portability.
Is the Lexar SL500 compatible with PlayStation 5?
Yes, the SL500 is suitable for console expansion. It is marketed as portable storage for gaming consoles. Its USB connection allows for easy plug-and-play setup. This makes it a practical option for adding capacity to your PS5 without opening the console or dealing with internal slots.
What is the physical size difference between these two drives?
The NM790 is significantly smaller and thinner. It measures 3.15 by 0.87 by 0.08 inches and weighs only 0.35 ounces. The SL500 is larger, measuring 3.15 by 2.76 by 1.97 inches, and weighs 1.52 ounces. The NM790 fits into tight internal spaces, while the SL500 is built for handheld portability.
Does the Lexar NM790 come with a cable for connection?
No, the NM790 does not include a cable. It is an internal M.2 SSD that mounts directly onto a motherboard. You need a compatible M.2 slot on your PC to use it. The SL500 is an external drive that includes the necessary USB connectivity for immediate use with various devices.
Which drive is better for a laptop upgrade?
The NM790 is the better choice for most laptop upgrades. Its M.2 form factor allows it to replace existing internal storage in compatible laptops. The SL500 is an external drive that remains separate from the system. Unless your laptop lacks internal slots, the NM790 provides a cleaner, integrated solution.
Can I transfer files from the SL500 to the NM790?
Yes, you can transfer files between them if both are connected to a computer. The SL500 connects via USB, while the NM790 connects via PCIe. You would copy data from the external drive to the internal one. This process is standard for moving files between external and internal storage devices.
Is the Lexar SL500 durable enough for travel?
Yes, the SL500 is designed for portable use. Its external casing protects the drive during transport. It is lightweight at 1.52 ounces and fits easily in a bag. The NM790 lacks this protective housing, making it unsuitable for carrying around. The SL500 is built to withstand the rigors of mobile storage.