Ever feel like your PC is dragging its feet? Loading times are agonizing, games stutter, and large files take forever to transfer? If you’re nodding along, it might be time for a serious storage upgrade. We’re talking about upgrading to a best 4TB M2 SSD. These compact, powerhouse drives offer immense storage capacity combined with blistering speeds, making them a game-changer for gamers, content creators, and everyday users alike.
Moving from an older hard drive or even a slower SATA SSD to a modern NVMe M.2 SSD, especially one with PCIe Gen4 speeds, feels like stepping into the future. With 4TB of storage, you’ll have ample space for your entire game library, massive video projects, and all your essential applications without constantly worrying about running out of room. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We’re diving deep into ten of the top 4TB M.2 SSDs on the market, highlighting their unique strengths, features, and what users are saying. Let’s find the perfect best 4TB M2 SSD to unleash your system’s full potential!
Top 10 Best 4TB M2 SSDs Reviewed
1. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4×4
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus takes the solid foundation of its predecessors and supercharges it for a new generation. This drive is all about efficiency and speed, leveraging cutting-edge NAND memory to deliver incredible read/write performance that’s perfect for demanding tasks. If you’re constantly moving huge files or need snappy application loading, this drive is built to keep up without breaking a sweat, thanks to its intelligent thermal control.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.
- Enhanced large-file performance with Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0.
- Nickel-coated controller for exceptional thermal control and power efficiency.
- Compatible with both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 for future-proofing.
- Samsung Magician Software for continuous monitoring and updates.
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for both sequential and random workloads.
- Superior power efficiency helps maintain battery life in laptops.
- Advanced thermal management prevents throttling.
- Backward compatibility and future readiness with PCIe 5.0 support.
- Reliable software for drive health and firmware updates.
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Cons:
- May be overkill for basic everyday use if speed isn’t a top priority.
- Premium performance often comes with a premium price tag.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the 990 EVO Plus for its noticeable speed boost and stable performance even under heavy loads. Many highlight its ease of installation and the usefulness of the Magician software as significant advantages.
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2. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal
The Samsung 990 PRO is a powerhouse designed for the most demanding users – think hardcore gamers, professional content creators, and data analysts. It pushes the boundaries of PCIe 4.0, delivering near-max performance with lightning-fast read/write speeds that will make your system feel incredibly responsive. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a leap forward in storage technology, optimized for efficiency and relentless performance.
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Key Features:
- Near-max PCIe 4.0 performance with up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s read/write speeds.
- Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
- Power efficiency up to 50% improved over the 980 PRO.
- Available in capacities up to 4TB.
- Ideal for heavy computing tasks like gaming, video editing, and data analysis.
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Pros:
- One of the fastest PCIe 4.0 SSDs available.
- Exceptional random performance crucial for fast application and game loading.
- Great power efficiency, making it suitable for laptops and extended use.
- Renowned Samsung reliability and build quality.
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Cons:
- High-end price point might not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers.
- Requires a compatible PCIe 4.0 motherboard to fully utilize its speed.
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User Impressions: Reviewers consistently laud the 990 PRO for its “blazing fast” speeds and noticeable impact on system responsiveness, particularly in gaming and professional applications. Its efficiency is also a frequently mentioned positive.
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3. Crucial P310 4TB PCIe Gen4 2280 NVMe M.2 SSD
The Crucial P310 stands out for its impressive power efficiency, offering a significant performance-to-power ratio improvement over previous Gen4 SSDs. This means you can enjoy excellent speed without excessively draining your battery, making it a fantastic choice for laptop users or anyone looking to build an energy-efficient system that still packs a punch in performance.
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Key Features:
- Up to 40% better performance-to-power ratio than previous Gen4 SSDs.
- PCIe Gen4 interface for modern system compatibility.
- M.2 2280 form factor.
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Pros:
- Excellent power efficiency for longer battery life in portable devices.
- Solid performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming.
- From a reputable memory brand.
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Cons:
- Specific speeds (read/write) are not detailed in the provided features, suggesting it might not be the absolute fastest Gen4 option.
- Might lack advanced features like dedicated heatsinks found in gaming-focused drives.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the P310 for its solid performance as an upgrade from older drives and its noticeable efficiency. It’s often recommended for those seeking a reliable and power-conscious Gen4 solution.
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4. Crucial P3 Plus 4TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2
The Crucial P3 Plus is a compelling option for those seeking a substantial performance leap without breaking the bank. With speeds significantly faster than the best Gen3 NVMe SSDs, this drive offers a noticeable upgrade for loading applications, transferring files, and even improving gaming experiences. It’s a reliable workhorse built for longevity, ensuring your data is safe and accessible for years to come.
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Key Features:
- NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology with up to 5000MB/s sequential reads.
- Random read/write up to 650K/900K IOPS.
- Performs up to 43% faster than the fastest Gen3 NVMe SSDs.
- Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity.
- Backward compatibility with Gen3 systems.
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Pros:
- Significantly faster than Gen3 drives, offering a true Gen4 experience.
- High endurance rating ensures long-term reliability.
- Large 4TB capacity is perfect for extensive storage needs.
- Backward compatible, making it versatile for older systems as well.
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Cons:
- Speeds are good for Gen4 but not top-tier compared to the fastest drives on this list.
- Doesn’t typically include a heatsink, which might be a consideration for sustained heavy loads.
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User Impressions: Customers often highlight the P3 Plus as a great value proposition, offering excellent speed improvements for its price. Its reliability and ease of installation are frequently praised.
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5. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
For the ultimate gaming experience, look no further than the WD_BLACK SN850X. This drive isn’t just fast; it’s engineered to virtually eliminate load times, giving you the competitive edge. With speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, it transforms your PC into a high-performance machine. Plus, its optional heatsink version ensures peak performance even during the most intense gaming marathons, making it a true gaming powerhouse.
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Key Features:
- Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- Capacities up to 8TB (4TB model available).
- Optional heatsink version for sustained peak performance.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard for monitoring, RGB customization, and Game Mode 2.0.
- Future-forward features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management.
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Pros:
- Top-tier speeds ideal for gaming and demanding applications.
- Optional heatsink is excellent for thermal management and consistent performance.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard adds useful monitoring and gaming-specific features.
- Designed specifically with gamers in mind for optimal load times.
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Cons:
- The non-heatsink version might throttle under extreme, prolonged loads without additional cooling.
- Premium pricing reflective of its top-tier performance and features.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently rave about the SN850X’s ability to drastically reduce load times and eliminate stutter. The optional heatsink is a big hit, and the dashboard’s functionality is well-received.
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6. Empowered PC TEAMGROUP T-Force G50 4TB PCIe Gen4x4 M.2
The TEAMGROUP T-Force G50 offers a fantastic balance of speed, reliability, and value. It delivers solid PCIe Gen4 performance, making it a significant upgrade for faster boot times and quicker application launches. What truly sets it apart are its robust features like a graphene heat spreader for efficient thermal management, an impressive TBW rating for longevity, and broad compatibility, including PS5 expansion, all without breaking the bank.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 5,000/4,500 MB/s.
- InnoGrit IG5220 DRAM-less controller with Host Memory Buffer (HMB) support.
- Robust 2600 TBW (Terabytes Written) rating for outstanding longevity.
- Patented graphene heat spreader for efficient thermal management.
- Compatible with Intel, AMD, Windows, MAC, Linux, and PS5.
- 5-Year Limited Warranty and S.M.A.R.T. software.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for a Gen4 drive with good speeds.
- High endurance rating ensures long product life.
- Included graphene heat spreader is effective and low-profile.
- Wide compatibility, including PS5, makes it versatile.
- Strong warranty and monitoring software.
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Cons:
- Speeds are good but not the absolute fastest compared to flagship Gen4 drives.
- DRAM-less design (though mitigated by HMB) can sometimes be less performant in very specific sustained workloads.
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend the T-Force G50 for its performance-to-price ratio. Its reliability and the inclusion of a heat spreader are often highlighted, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious builders and PS5 owners.
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7. WD_BLACK 4TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
The WD_BLACK SN7100 is another solid entry from Western Digital’s gaming-focused lineup, designed to deliver impressive speeds and endurance for serious gamers and content creators. With read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,900MB/s, it offers a significant performance boost over previous generations. It’s also engineered with power efficiency in mind, making it an excellent choice for not just desktops but also laptops and handheld gaming devices where battery life matters.
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Key Features:
- Speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- PCIe Gen4 interface and latest TLC 3D NAND.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- High endurance with up to 2,400TBW (4TB model).
- Built for laptops and handheld gaming devices.
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Pros:
- Excellent read/write speeds for fast loading and file transfers.
- Remarkable power efficiency, ideal for portable gaming.
- High endurance rating ensures long-term reliability.
- Designed for serious gamers, offering a significant performance uplift.
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Cons:
- Specific speeds for the 4TB model aren’t listed, relying on the 1-2TB models for reference.
- Does not include a heatsink, which might be a consideration for high-load gaming systems.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the SN7100’s solid performance in gaming and its suitability for laptops due to its efficiency. Its robust endurance is also a frequently noted positive for those planning heavy usage.
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8. fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD
The fanxiang S880E is a surprisingly capable contender in the 4TB NVMe SSD space, especially for gamers looking to upgrade their console or PC storage. Boasting extreme PCIe 4.0 performance with speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s, it’s designed to deliver incredible load times and responsiveness. Its clever thermal design, featuring graphite and aluminum foil, ensures that these high speeds are maintained even during intense gaming sessions, making it a reliable partner for victory.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller, NVMe 2.0 support.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s.
- Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage for extreme gaming.
- High-quality 3D NAND flash memory for fast application loading and file processing.
- Efficient thermal control with graphite coated copper foil and aluminum foil.
- 5-year service and 20+ years of manufacturing experience from Fanxiang.
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Pros:
- Near-top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds at a competitive price point.
- Excellent thermal management helps prevent throttling.
- Strong compatibility, including PS5 and DirectStorage.
- Reputable manufacturer with a long service history and warranty.
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Cons:
- Less established brand reputation compared to industry giants like Samsung or WD.
- “Not for Mac OS” note might deter some users.
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User Impressions: Many users express pleasant surprise at the S880E’s performance, often comparing it favorably to more expensive drives. Its gaming capabilities and effective thermal solution are frequently highlighted as strong points.
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9. Fikwot FX991 M.2 SSD 4TB NVMe SSD M2 2280 PCIe
The Fikwot FX991 makes a strong statement with its lightning-fast performance and intelligent thermal management. Designed to boost your system’s responsiveness, this 4TB NVMe SSD utilizes PCIe Gen 4×4 specifications to achieve impressive read/write speeds up to 7300/6200MB/s. Its auto-adaptive temperature adjustment, combined with a high-conductivity graphite heatsink, ensures consistent peak performance, even under the most demanding workloads, while also extending battery life for laptops.
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Key Features:
- NVMe protocol and PCIe Gen 4×4 specifications.
- Maximum read/write speeds up to 7300MB/s and 6200MB/s.
- Auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and power efficiency management.
- Equipped with high-conductivity graphite heatsink.
- HMB (Host Memory Buffer) and smart SLC cache for improved performance.
- Supports TRIM, S.M.A.R.T, AES-256 encryption.
- Excellent compatibility with laptops, desktops, and PS5.
- 5-year limited service or 2400TBW.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds for a noticeable performance boost.
- Effective thermal management for sustained performance and longer device life.
- HMB and SLC cache enhance responsiveness.
- Broad compatibility, including PS5, and security features like AES-256.
- Solid endurance rating and warranty.
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Cons:
- Brand recognition is not as high as more established competitors.
- Actual real-world performance might vary slightly based on system configuration.
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User Impressions: Customers are often impressed by the FX991’s raw speed and its ability to maintain performance under load. Its competitive pricing relative to its feature set and speed is also a common positive.
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10. Silicon Power 4TB UD90 NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 SSD
The Silicon Power UD90 is a reliable and performance-oriented 4TB M.2 SSD that punches above its weight. It maximizes the benefits of PCIe 4.0, offering nearly double the bandwidth of Gen3 drives for quicker downloads and improved multi-tasking. Beyond just speed, the UD90 emphasizes data integrity and reliability with features like SLC Caching, LDPC coding, RAID support, and E2E data protection, giving you peace of mind that your valuable data is secure.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 interface with nearly double the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0.
- Improved sequential and random read/write performance with SLC Caching.
- Supports Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) coding for data accuracy.
- Supports RAID for data protection.
- Equipped with built-in E2E data protection for enhanced data transfer integrity.
- 5-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Good performance upgrade from PCIe 3.0 drives.
- Strong focus on data integrity and reliability features.
- RAID support and E2E data protection are valuable for critical data.
- Competitive pricing for a Gen4 drive with these features.
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Cons:
- Specific speed numbers aren’t listed, suggesting it might not be among the fastest Gen4 drives.
- No integrated heatsink is mentioned, which might require aftermarket cooling for heavy use.
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User Impressions: Users commend the UD90 for its reliable performance and the added data protection features, which are often overlooked in more budget-friendly drives. It’s seen as a solid, dependable choice for general use and professional tasks.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is an M.2 SSD and why should I get a 4TB one?
A1: An M.2 SSD is a small form factor solid-state drive that connects directly to your motherboard via an M.2 slot, often using the NVMe protocol for extremely fast data transfer. A 4TB M.2 SSD provides a massive amount of storage, allowing you to install numerous games, store large media files, and run demanding applications without worrying about running out of space, all while benefiting from blazing-fast speeds.
Q2: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen3 and PCIe Gen4 for M.2 SSDs?
A2: PCIe Gen4 (PCI Express Generation 4) is the successor to PCIe Gen3. It offers double the bandwidth per lane, meaning PCIe Gen4 M.2 SSDs can achieve much higher sequential read and write speeds compared to Gen3 drives. While Gen3 is still fast, Gen4 is ideal for intensive tasks like 4K video editing, large file transfers, and minimizing game loading times.
Q3: Do I need a heatsink for my 4TB M.2 SSD?
A3: For high-performance PCIe Gen4 SSDs, especially if you’ll be performing sustained, heavy workloads like large file transfers, video rendering, or long gaming sessions, a heatsink is highly recommended. It helps dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling which can slow down your drive’s performance. Many motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can purchase aftermarket ones.
Q4: Is a 4TB M.2 SSD compatible with PS5?
A4: Yes, many 4TB M.2 SSDs, particularly those supporting PCIe Gen4 speeds and meeting specific size requirements (M.2 2280 is standard), are compatible with the PS5 for storage expansion. Always check the SSD’s specifications and PS5’s requirements (e.g., minimum read speed of 5,500 MB/s) to ensure full compatibility.
Q5: What is TBW (Terabytes Written) and why is it important?
A5: TBW stands for Terabytes Written and is an endurance rating that indicates how much data can be written to an SSD over its lifetime before its reliability might start to degrade. A higher TBW rating means the drive is designed to handle more write cycles and is generally more durable, especially important for users who frequently write large amounts of data.
Q6: What is SLC Cache and HMB, and how do they improve performance?
A6: SLC (Single-Level Cell) Cache is a portion of an SSD’s flash memory that operates in a faster, SLC mode to temporarily store data before it’s written to slower TLC/QLC NAND. HMB (Host Memory Buffer) is a feature for DRAM-less SSDs that allows them to use a small portion of your system’s RAM as a cache, significantly improving random read/write performance without needing dedicated DRAM on the SSD itself. Both technologies help boost burst performance and overall responsiveness.
Q7: Can I use a 4TB M.2 SSD in an older motherboard?
A7: If your older motherboard has an M.2 slot, it might support an M.2 SSD. However, older motherboards typically support PCIe Gen3. A PCIe Gen4 SSD will still work in a Gen3 slot, but it will operate at Gen3 speeds. Ensure your motherboard’s BIOS is updated and check its specifications for M.2 slot compatibility (NVMe vs. SATA, key types).