Lexar PLAY 512GB
Score: 71/100
Lexar Blue 1TB
Score: 75/100Rankings
Lexar 1TB Blue microSDXC provides a massive 1 TB capacity with IPX7 waterproof and shock-resistant construction, targeting gamers and mobile creators. Real-world read/write speeds fall short of the advertised 160 MB/s peak, and optimal performance requires a Lexar USB 3.1 reader. Suitable for users needing high capacity and decent speed for apps and media.
The Lexar 512 GB PLAY microSDXC card offers high-capacity storage with fast read speeds up to 205 MB/s, making it ideal for gaming and 4K video on compatible devices. Its write speed is limited and the UHS-I interface caps performance on newer hardware. Best suited for casual gamers and smartphone users seeking large space without needing top-tier write speeds.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
512 GB | 1,024 GBbest | |
205 MB/sbest | 160 MB/s | |
140 MB/sbest | 62 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 9 g | 0.25 gbest |
5 years | 10 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1 mm | 0.7 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 512 GB | 1024 GB |
Performance(4) | ||
Read Speed (MB/s) | 205 MB/s | 160 MB/s |
Write Speed (MB/s) | 140 MB/s | 62 MB/s |
Speed Class | Class 10 | C10 |
UHS Speed Class | U3 | UHS-I |
Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 9 g | 0.25 g |
Thickness (mm) | 1 mm | 0.7 mm |
Power & Environment(2) | ||
Operating Temperature (°C) | 0-70 °C | 0 to 70 °C |
Storage Temperature (°C) | -25-85 °C | -25 to 85 °C |
General(2) | ||
Warranty (years) | 5 years | 10 years |
Compatibility | Nintendo Switch 1, smartphones, tablets, portable gaming devices | Nintendo Switch, smartphones, tablets, action cameras |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Lexar PLAY 512 GB card for its solid read performance, V30/U3/A2 ratings, and suitability for gaming and 4K video on UHS-I devices, but they caution that the UHS-I interface and capped write speeds limit its appeal for power users seeking microSD Express performance.
Everyday users generally appreciate the high capacity and quick load times for games and media, while recurring concerns focus on the limited write speed, the lightweight feel of the packaging, and the absence of a protective case.
Professional reviewers praised the Lexar 1TB Blue for its astonishing capacity and solid real-world speeds, noting that it delivers about 97 MB/s read and 62 MB/s write without the need for a high-end reader. They highlighted the added value of a clear storage case and a five-year warranty, but cautioned that the advertised 160 MB/s peak requires Lexar's own USB 3.1 readers and that write performance can degrade during long recordings.
Everyday users love the massive 1TB space for gaming and media, citing fast initial transfers and reliable Switch game installs. However, many complain about write-speed throttling during extended use and the necessity of a specific Lexar reader to unlock full read performance, leading to mixed feelings about consistency versus advertised specs.
“"crazy that we're holding one terabyte in the palm of our hand"”
“"might slow down a little bit"”
