When upgrading from a traditional hard drive to a solid-state drive, Lexar NS100 and Lexar NQ100 often appear on the radar of budget buyers. Both are entry-level SATA III SSDs, designed to breathe life into older systems with faster boot times and application launches.
However, Lexar NS100 vs NQ100, while they look similar on paper, their real-world performance and reliability differ significantly. Let’s compare them side by side.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Lexar NS100 | Lexar NQ100 |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | SATA III (6 Gb/s), 2.5″ form factor | SATA III (6 Gb/s), 2.5″ form factor |
| Sequential Read | Up to 520–550 MB/s | Up to 550 MB/s |
| Sequential Write | Up to 520 MB/s | Around 440–500 MB/s (varies by model) |
| Random IOPS (4K) | Better consistency with caching | Weaker performance, DRAM-less |
| Endurance (TBW) | 64 TBW (128 GB) → 1,000 TBW (2 TB) | 84 TBW (240 GB) → 168 TBW (480 GB) |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Build Quality | Shock & vibration resistant | Shock & vibration resistant |
| Best Use Case | Everyday computing, light workloads | Very light use, budget systems only |
Quick Benchmark Highlights
Benchmark Highlights Table – Lexar NS100 vs NQ100
| Benchmark Category | Lexar NS100 🚀 | Lexar NQ100 ⚡ |
|---|---|---|
| Sequential Read | 520–550 MB/s | Up to 550 MB/s |
| Sequential Write | Up to 520 MB/s | ~440–500 MB/s |
| Random IOPS (4K) | Stronger, smoother multitasking | Weaker, struggles under load |
| Endurance (TBW) | 64 TBW (128 GB) → 1000 TBW (2 TB) | 84 TBW (240 GB) → 168 TBW (480 GB) |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Best Use Case | Everyday computing, boot drive | Secondary storage, light use only |
Key Takeaways
- NS100 shows more stable speeds in sequential reads/writes, averaging near 520–550 MB/s.
- NQ100 struggles under sustained workloads, with sequential writes often dropping below 450 MB/s.
- Random 4K IOPS: NS100 outperforms NQ100, making multitasking smoother.
- Endurance: NS100 offers much higher TBW ratings, ensuring better long-term use.
- User Reports: NQ100 is prone to slowdowns and occasional freezes when nearly full, while NS100 maintains steadier performance.
Pros & Cons
Lexar NS100
Pros:
- Stable sequential and random performance.
- Higher endurance (up to 1,000 TBW for larger models).
- Reliable for everyday computing.
- Affordable pricing.
Cons:
- DRAM-less, so not ideal for very heavy multitasking.
- Warranty limited to 3 years.
Lexar NQ100
Pros:
- Very low cost, often cheaper than NS100.
- Reads up to 550 MB/s under ideal conditions.
- Lightweight and shock-resistant.
Cons:
- Slower and inconsistent write speeds.
- Lower endurance ratings.
- Reports of system freezes and lag under load.
- Not recommended for primary OS drive in the long term.
Buying Recommendations
- Choose Lexar NS100 if:
- You want a more reliable budget SSD.
- You plan to use it as a boot drive for Windows or Linux.
- You want higher endurance for everyday computing.
- Choose Lexar NQ100 if:
- You’re on an ultra-tight budget.
- You only need an SSD for light storage or secondary drive purposes.
- Performance isn’t critical.
Final Verdict
Between the two, the Lexar NS100 is the smarter buy. It delivers steadier performance, higher endurance, and better reliability for everyday use.
The Lexar NQ100 may look appealing due to its lower price, but it comes with trade-offs in speed and long-term stability. If you value smooth performance and durability, the NS100 is the better long-term investment.
FAQ
Q1: Which SSD is faster, Lexar NS100 or NQ100?
A1: The NS100 is generally faster and more consistent, especially in random I/O.
Q2: Can I use NQ100 as a boot drive?
A2: It’s possible, but not recommended due to inconsistent performance and potential freezes.
Q3: Does either SSD have DRAM cache?
A3: No, both are DRAM-less, but the NS100 handles caching better with SLC buffers.
Q4: How long do these drives last?
A4: The NS100 has higher TBW endurance, making it more reliable for long-term use compared to the NQ100.
Q5: Are both compatible with laptops and desktops?
A5: Yes, both use a 2.5-inch SATA III interface, making them widely compatible.
Q6: Is there a better Lexar SSD option?
A6: Yes, the Lexar NM710 or NM790 (NVMe) are better choices if your system supports M.2 slots.
Short Conclusion
The Lexar NS100 outshines the NQ100 in almost every meaningful way—speed, endurance, and reliability. Unless you’re buying solely on price, go with the NS100 for a more dependable upgrade.
If you have any questions about “Lexar NS100 vs NQ100 – Budget SSD Battle in 2025” Then feel free and let us know through your comments.
