Lexar or Transcend? Nvme SSDs Compared in 2026
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This lexar vs transcend nvme SSD comparison looks at two distinct storage options for upgrading your system. Both drives offer SATA III connectivity, which provides reliable performance for everyday tasks. The main difference lies in their physical design and interface implementation. One uses a traditional 2.5-inch form factor, while the other utilizes a compact M.2 module. You need to check your motherboard slots to see which physical shape fits your specific laptop or desktop build.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lexar NS100 128GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD | Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | 2.5-inch | M.2 2242 |
| Interface | SATA III | SATA III 6GB/s |
| Max Read Speed | 520MB/s | 560MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | not listed | 500MB/s |
| Cache Type | not listed | SLC Cache |
| NAND Type | not listed | 3D TLC |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lexar NS100 128GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD if
- You have a desktop or older laptop with standard 2.5-inch drive bays.
- You need a drive that is shock and vibration resistant due to no moving parts.
- You prefer a larger physical footprint that is easier to handle during installation.
Choose Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD if
- You are installing a drive in a slim laptop or mini-PC with M.2 slots.
- You want higher sequential read speeds up to 560MB/s.
- You need explicit write speed specifications and SLC cache technology for better sustained performance.
Verdict: Choose the Lexar NS100 if you are upgrading a system with standard 2.5-inch drive bays. Select the Transcend MTS420S if your device requires a compact M.2 2242 form factor with slightly higher read speeds. Both are SATA drives, so your choice depends entirely on physical compatibility and specific speed needs.
Lexar NS100 vs Transcend MTS420S
Form factor
The Lexar NS100 uses a standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor. This traditional shape fits easily into most desktops and older laptops with dedicated drive bays. It measures 3.94 inches long, 2.75 inches wide, and 0.28 inches high. The Transcend MTS420S adopts an M.2 2242 form factor. This smaller, stick-like design plugs directly into motherboard slots. It is 42mm long and 22mm wide. This makes the Transcend ideal for compact systems, ultrabooks, or devices with limited internal space. You must check your motherboard for an available M.2 SATA slot to use the Transcend. The Lexar requires a standard drive bay and SATA data cable.
Interface
Both drives rely on the SATA III interface. This connection standard caps data transfer rates at 6Gbps. The Lexar NS100 connects via a standard SATA connector. The Transcend MTS420S uses a B+M key on its M.2 connector to support SATA signals. Neither drive offers the higher bandwidth of NVMe PCIe interfaces. You will see similar real-world performance limits for large file transfers on both. The SATA III protocol ensures broad compatibility with modern and older systems alike. If your system lacks M.2 SATA support, the Lexar remains a viable option. If you have an open M.2 slot, the Transcend connects directly without cables.
Sequential speed
Read speeds differ slightly between the two models. The Transcend MTS420S claims sequential read speeds of up to 560MB/sec. The Lexar NS100 offers sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s. This 40MB/s difference is minimal in everyday use. The Transcend also lists a write speed of up to 500MB/sec. The Lexar does not publish a specific sequential write speed in the provided data. For loading operating systems or opening large applications, both drives will feel fast. The SATA III interface limits both speeds regardless of the internal controller capabilities.
Cache type
Cache memory helps manage data flow between the NAND and the host system. The Transcend MTS420S explicitly features an SLC Cache. This type of cache can improve performance during burst transfers of smaller files. The Lexar NS100 data does not specify a cache type or size. It relies on its controller and NAND configuration for performance management. If you frequently move many small files, the Transcend's SLC cache may provide a smoother experience. For large, continuous file transfers, the cache impact diminishes on both drives. The presence of a dedicated cache is a technical advantage for the Transcend.
NAND type
The internal memory technology affects longevity and consistency. The Transcend MTS420S uses 3D TLC NAND flash memory. This is a common, cost-effective storage technology that balances capacity and performance. The Lexar NS100 data does not specify the NAND type. It may use TLC or QLC, but the information is not listed. 3D TLC generally offers better endurance and sustained performance than older planar NAND. Without knowing the Lexar's specific NAND type, the Transcend has a documented advantage. You should consider the Transcend if you prefer known 3D TLC construction for your daily workloads.
Endurance
Drive endurance is measured in Terabytes Written (TBW). The Lexar NS100 128GB model has a rated endurance of 60TBW. This indicates how much data you can write over the drive's lifespan. The Transcend MTS420S data does not provide a TBW rating for the 120GB version. Endurance correlates with NAND quality and controller efficiency. A 60TBW rating for a 128GB drive suggests reasonable durability for general computing. Without the Transcend's specific TBW figure, you cannot directly compare longevity. Both drives are suitable for standard desktop and laptop usage patterns.
Which NVMe SSD Should You Buy
Desktop users needing standard drive bays
The Lexar NS100 uses a 2.5-inch form factor, making it easy to install in most desktop towers and older laptops with dedicated drive bays. Its SATA III interface ensures reliable performance for everyday tasks. This traditional shape fits standard mounts, providing a straightforward upgrade path for systems that do not support M.2 slots or smaller form factors.
Users needing compact M.2 storage
The Transcend MTS420S features a slim M.2 2242 design, ideal for tight spaces or specific motherboard slots. It supports Trim and NCQ commands for better efficiency. Its compact dimensions allow it to fit where larger drives cannot, making it a practical choice for mini-PCs or laptops with limited internal space for storage components.
Those prioritizing higher sequential speeds
The Transcend drive offers sequential read speeds up to 560MB/sec and write speeds up to 500MB/sec. This performance edge over the Lexar's 520MB/s read speed can benefit data transfers and application loads. The inclusion of SLC cache also helps maintain consistent performance during burst writes, enhancing responsiveness for active workloads.
The products compared
Lexar NS100 128GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD
Best for: basic SATA upgrades in older laptops
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Interface
- SATA III
- Form Factor
- 2.5"
- Max Read Speed
- 520MB/s
- Compatibility
- Laptop
- Dimensions
- 3.94 × 2.75 × 0.28 inches
View on Amazon: Lexar NS100 128GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD Affiliate link
This Lexar NS100 is a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD with a 128GB capacity. It offers sequential read speeds up to 520MB/s. The drive weighs 1.2 ounces and measures 3.94 by 2.75 inches. It is designed for laptop or desktop upgrades. You get 60TBW endurance for this capacity. It provides faster performance than traditional hard drives.
Pros
- Sequential read speeds up to 520MB/s
- 60TBW endurance rating for 128GB
- Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
- Compact 2.5-inch form factor fits most systems
Cons
- SATA III interface limits speed compared to NVMe drives
- 128GB capacity is small for modern storage needs
- No SLC cache mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a basic SATA drive for an older laptop
- You want a shock-resistant storage solution for mobile use
- You are upgrading from a mechanical hard drive
Skip if
- You require NVMe speeds for high-performance tasks
- You need more than 128GB of storage
- You are building a new PC with M.2 slots
Verdict: The Lexar NS100 128GB 2.5" SATA SSD is a reliable entry-level drive for basic storage upgrades. It suits users who prioritize durability and SATA compatibility over raw speed or large capacity.
Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD
Best for: Compact SATA upgrades
- Storage Capacity
- 120GB
- Interface
- SATA III 6GB/s
- Max Read Speed
- 560MB/sec
- Max Write Speed
- 500MB/sec
- Cache Type
- SLC Cache
- Form Factor
- M.2 2242
View on Amazon: Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD Affiliate link
This Transcend drive uses the M.2 2242 form factor with a SATA III interface. It offers sequential read speeds up to 560MB/sec and write speeds up to 500MB/sec. The unit includes SLC cache technology to help manage data flow. You get 120GB of storage in a compact 42mm length. This configuration suits users needing a small footprint for older laptops or compact builds.
Pros
- SATA III 6GB/s interface
- 560MB/sec read speed
- 500MB/sec write speed
- SLC Cache support
Cons
- Small 120GB capacity
- Short 42mm M.2 2242 length
- No NVMe PCIe speed
Good fit if
- You need a small M.2 2242 drive
- You require SATA III compatibility
- You want SLC cache for burst performance
Skip if
- You need high NVMe speeds
- You require large storage capacity
- You need a standard 2280 size
Verdict: Transcend 120GB M.2 SATA SSD fits users with limited space who need reliable SATA speeds. It works well for light tasks or system upgrades in compact devices.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexar NS100 128GB 2.5-Inch SATA SSD | Transcend 120GB M.2 2242 SATA SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 128GB | 120GB |
| Interface | SATA III | SATA III 6GB/s |
| Form Factor | 2.5" | not stated |
| Max Read Speed | 520MB/s | 560MB/sec |
| Max Write Speed | not stated | 500MB/sec |
| Cache Type | not stated | SLC Cache |
| Compatibility | Laptop | Laptop, Desktop |
| Size | 128GB | 120GB |
| Dimensions | 3.94 × 2.75 × 0.28 inches | 0.87 × 0.15 × 3.15 inches |
| Weight | 1.2 ounces | not stated |
| Color | Gray | Multicoloured |
| Model | LNS100-128AMZN | TS120GMTS420S |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Lexar NS100 an NVMe drive?
No, the Lexar NS100 is a SATA SSD. It uses the SATA III interface and comes in a 2.5-inch form factor. This design connects via standard SATA cables rather than the PCIe lanes used by NVMe drives. You should choose this if your system only supports SATA connections.
Does the Transcend MTS420S support NVMe protocols?
No, the Transcend MTS420S is also a SATA SSD. It utilizes the SATA III interface for data transfer. The drive features an M.2 2242 form factor with SLC cache technology. It is designed for compact devices that require reliable SATA speeds rather than high-speed NVMe performance.
Can I use these SSDs in modern laptops?
The Transcend MTS420S fits modern laptops with M.2 slots. Its small 2242 size is ideal for compact systems with limited internal space. The Lexar NS100 is better for older laptops or desktops. It uses the standard 2.5-inch bay found in most traditional computer chassis for easy installation.
What is the main difference between these two drives?
The primary difference is their physical form factor. The Lexar NS100 uses a bulky 2.5-inch SATA design. The Transcend MTS420S uses a compact M.2 2242 shape. Both share the same SATA III interface speed. You should pick the Transcend for space-saving builds and the Lexar for standard bays.
Are both drives suitable for basic storage upgrades?
Yes, both drives are excellent for basic upgrades. The Lexar NS100 is reliable for standard desktop and laptop storage needs. The Transcend MTS420S works well for light tasks in small devices. They both provide consistent SATA III performance without the complexity of NVMe controllers.
Which drive has a smaller physical footprint?
The Transcend MTS420S has the smaller footprint. It measures 3.15 inches long and 0.87 inches wide. The Lexar NS100 is larger at 3.94 inches long and 2.75 inches wide. If you are building a small form factor PC, the Transcend M.2 drive is the better choice.
Do I need an NVMe adapter for these drives?
No, you do not need an NVMe adapter. Both drives use the SATA III protocol. The Lexar NS100 connects via a standard SATA data cable and power connector. The Transcend MTS420S plugs directly into an M.2 SATA slot. They operate independently of NVMe hardware requirements.