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Lexar 2TB SL500 External SSD, 2000MB/s Read, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, Slim
Lexar

Lexar 2TB SL500 External SSD, 2000MB/s Read, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, Slim

Bottom line: The Lexar 2TB SL500 External SSD: Up to 2000MB/s read, 1800MB/s write over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2; main trade-off: full 2000MB/s needs USB 3.2 Gen 2x2; slower on most Macs.

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Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014. For SSDs and PC storage upgrades, synthesises manufacturer specs and independent reviews rather than first-hand lab testing. Core beat: GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Up to 2000MB/s read, 1800MB/s write over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2
  • ✓ Slim aluminum unibody, 3.3x2.1x0.3 in, just 0.095 lbs
  • ✓ Records Apple ProRes 4K 60FPS direct off iPhone 15 Pro
  • ✓ Works with iPhone 15/16, PS5, PS4, Xbox X|S, cameras
  • ✓ DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software included

Cons

  • ✗ Full 2000MB/s needs USB 3.2 Gen 2x2; slower on most Macs
  • ✗ Only one Type-C cable, no USB-A adapter in box
  • ✗ Encryption software is Windows-oriented, limited on mobile
  • ✗ No IP dust/water rating despite pocket-friendly pitch

SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored Lexar 2TB SL500 External SSD using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the ssds & storage category. Lexar's ssds & storage lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for ssds & storage of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Key Features

  • Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write1 to transfer files fast for more efficient work (Performance on Mac and other systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 may be lower)
  • Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket
  • Supports Apple Pro Res recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • Wide compatibility with mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, as well as Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more
  • Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures even at top speeds, so high performance is always retained

Full Specifications

BrandLexar
ColorBlack
ConnectivityUSB
CompatibilityPS5, PS4, Xbox, iOS, Mac
Special FeatureCompact, Thin, Durable Metal Design, Ultra Lightweight
Installation TypeExternal Hard Drive
Compatible DevicesCamera, Gaming Console, Laptop, Smartphone
Hard Disk InterfaceUSB 3.2
Hard Disk DescriptionSolid State Drive
Hard Disk Form Factor2.5 inches
Connectivity TechnologyUSB
Digital Storage Capacity2 TB

Ready to buy?

Lexar 2TB SL500 External SSD, 2000MB/s Read, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, Slim is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

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