Is your PlayStation 4 feeling a bit sluggish? Do you spend more time staring at loading screens than actually playing your favorite games? You’re not alone! As games get bigger and more graphically intense, the PS4’s stock hard drive can become a real bottleneck. The good news? Upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) can breathe new life into your console, dramatically reducing load times and improving overall responsiveness.
When it comes to reliable and high-performance storage, Crucial is a name gamers trust. We’ve dug deep to bring you the Crucial best 2TB SSD for PS4 options available, covering both internal and external solutions. Whether you’re looking for a simple plug-and-play external drive or want to tackle an internal upgrade, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and find the perfect storage boost for your PS4!
Understanding SSDs for PS4: Internal vs. External
Before we jump into the reviews, a quick note on PS4 compatibility. The PS4 uses a 2.5-inch SATA hard drive internally. If you want to replace this, you’ll need a 2.5-inch SATA SSD. Many modern, super-fast SSDs are NVMe M.2 drives, designed for PCs or PS5s. While these can be used with your PS4 as external storage (via a USB enclosure), they aren’t suitable for internal upgrades. External SSDs, on the other hand, are a breeze to set up – just plug them into a USB 3.0 port and you’re good to go!
Our Top Picks: Crucial Best 2TB SSD for PS4
Here’s our curated list of the top Crucial 2TB SSDs that could be a game-changer for your PlayStation 4 setup.
1. Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
The Crucial BX500 is often seen as a go-to choice for console upgrades, and for good reason. This 2.5-inch SATA SSD is specifically designed to fit internally into your PS4, replacing the stock hard drive. It’s built to deliver a noticeable performance boost, making your games load faster and improving your console’s overall snappiness. If you’re ready to get under the hood and want a direct internal replacement, this could be the Crucial best 2TB SSD for PS4 for you.
- Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
- 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
- Improves battery life because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive (though less relevant for PS4, still a good efficiency point).
- Micron 3D NAND – advancing the world’s memory and storage technology for 40 years.
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Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Direct internal fit for PS4 (2.5-inch SATA).
- Significant speed upgrade over traditional HDDs.
- Reputable brand with a solid warranty.
- Energy efficient.
- Cons:
- Requires opening up the PS4 for installation.
- Not the absolute fastest SSD speeds compared to NVMe drives (but excellent for SATA).
User Impressions: Many users praise the BX500 for its ease of installation and immediate performance gains on consoles and older PCs. Gamers particularly note the drastically reduced loading screens, calling it a worthwhile upgrade.
2. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD
If cracking open your PS4 isn’t your style, the Crucial X9 Portable SSD offers a fantastic external solution. Designed for broad compatibility, including PS4, this drive simply plugs into one of your console’s USB 3.0 ports, giving you an instant 2TB storage boost. It’s perfect for casual gamers who want a performance upgrade without the hassle of an internal installation, offering speeds that significantly outperform the PS4’s internal HDD.
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s accelerates large file transfers, media editing, and backup processes.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more with this compact 2TB SSD.
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Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Easy plug-and-play external setup for PS4.
- Excellent read/write speeds for an external drive.
- Robust and durable design, great for portability.
- Compact size.
- Cons:
- Takes up a USB port on your PS4.
- Doesn’t offer the absolute maximum speeds of PCIe NVMe drives.
User Impressions: Users love the X9’s straightforward setup and solid performance. It’s highly recommended for expanding PS4 storage without the fuss of internal modifications, with many highlighting its durability.
3. Crucial P310 2280 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe Gaming PS5 SSD
Now, let’s be clear: this Crucial P310 is primarily designed as an internal upgrade for PCs and the PlayStation 5, leveraging its PCIe Gen4 NVMe speeds. However, for PS4 users, it can still serve as a blazingly fast external storage solution if paired with a compatible USB-C to NVMe enclosure. While not a direct internal PS4 upgrade, its immense speed means games stored on it (via an enclosure) will load incredibly fast. Consider this option if you’re also a PC gamer or plan to upgrade to a PS5 eventually.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 2TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media.
- Broad Compatibility: Seamlessly works with desktops, laptops, and PlayStation 5. Supports backward compatibility with Gen3 systems.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation.
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Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
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Pros:
- Extremely high read/write speeds, ideal for future-proofing or PC/PS5.
- Large 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries.
- Robust Micron build quality.
- Cons:
- Not an internal PS4 upgrade (requires 2.5″ SATA).
- Needs an external NVMe enclosure to be used as external PS4 storage.
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the P310’s incredible speed for PC and PS5 gaming, praising its value for the performance. When used externally with a PS4, users report significant load time improvements, even with the USB bottleneck.
4. Crucial X10 2TB Portable SSD
Stepping up the speed game from the X9, the Crucial X10 Portable SSD is designed for creators and PC gamers, but its broad compatibility extends to your PS4 as well. Offering blazing read speeds up to 2,100MB/s, this external drive is perfect for those who want the absolute fastest external storage for their PS4, ensuring games load in the blink of an eye. Its rugged design also makes it a great companion for travel.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for fast data access.
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more with this compact external 2TB SSD.
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Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds for an external drive.
- Extremely durable with high dust/water resistance.
- Plug-and-play ease for PS4.
- Highly portable.
- Cons:
- Higher price point due to its superior speed and durability.
- Maximum speeds might be bottlenecked by PS4’s USB 3.0 ports (still much faster than HDD).
User Impressions: Gamers and content creators alike are impressed by the X10’s phenomenal speed and rugged build. PS4 users report significantly reduced load times, even appreciating the robust casing.
5. Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD
Targeted at professional creators, the Crucial X9 Pro delivers consistent high-speed performance for demanding workflows, making it a stellar choice for your PS4’s external storage needs. With uniform read and write speeds of 1050MB/s, it ensures your game data transfers quickly and reliably. Its thoughtful design, including a lanyard loop and optional password protection, adds a layer of convenience and security that gamers will appreciate.
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
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Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Consistent and fast read/write speeds.
- Enhanced durability with IP55 rating and drop resistance.
- Security features like password protection.
- Excellent broad compatibility, including PS4.
- Cons:
- Doesn’t reach the extreme speeds of the X10 Pro.
- Might be overkill for users who only need basic storage expansion.
User Impressions: Professionals praise the X9 Pro for its consistent performance and ruggedness in the field. PS4 users find it to be a reliable and fast external drive that significantly improves game loading without any hiccups.
6. Crucial P3 Plus 2TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2
The Crucial P3 Plus is a powerhouse NVMe M.2 SSD built for cutting-edge PCs and the PlayStation 5, boasting PCIe Gen4 x4 technology for incredible speeds up to 5000MB/s sequential reads. Like the P310, it’s not an internal PS4 upgrade, but if you’re comfortable using an external NVMe enclosure, this drive can offer superb performance as external storage for your PS4. Its massive capacity and speed make it a fantastic long-term investment, especially if you’ll eventually use it in a PS5 or PC.
- NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology with up to 5000MB/s sequential reads, random read/write 680K/850K IOPS.
- Spacious storage up to 4TB (this model is 2TB).
- Performs up to 43% faster than the fastest Gen3 NVMe SSDs.
- Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity and reliability.
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Backward compatibility with Gen3.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds for future-proofing and PC/PS5 use.
- High reliability and longevity.
- Excellent value for a Gen4 NVMe drive.
- Cons:
- Not suitable for internal PS4 upgrades.
- Requires an external enclosure for PS4 external storage, adding to the cost.
User Impressions: Users are highly impressed by the P3 Plus’s performance-to-price ratio, noting significant improvements in boot times and game loading on compatible systems. For PS4 external use (with an enclosure), it still offers a substantial upgrade over the stock HDD.
7. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD
If you demand the absolute pinnacle of external storage performance for your PS4, the Crucial X10 Pro is your answer. Designed for professional creators who can’t compromise on speed or durability, this external SSD offers scorching read speeds up to 2,100MB/s and write speeds up to 2,000MB/s. It’s tough, reliable, and provides massive storage, making it arguably the Crucial best 2TB SSD for PS4 if external, top-tier speed is your main concern.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Store high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and current projects with this compact 2TB SSD.
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Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Top-tier external SSD speeds for the fastest possible load times.
- Extremely durable and portable with IP55 rating.
- Professional-grade reliability and security features.
- Broad device compatibility, including PS4.
- Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Speeds might be partially bottlenecked by the PS4’s USB 3.0 interface, but still phenomenal.
User Impressions: Professionals and gamers alike are blown away by the X10 Pro’s sheer speed and robust build quality. PS4 users consistently report vastly improved loading times for even the most demanding games, affirming its premium performance.
8. Crucial P310 2TB M.2 2230 SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe
This version of the Crucial P310 stands out for its compact M.2 2230 form factor, making it ideal for devices like the Valve Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and Microsoft Surface. While still an NVMe drive and not an internal PS4 upgrade, its PCIe 4.0 performance (up to 7,100MB/s read) means that if you were to use it in an external enclosure for your PS4, you’d still get a highly responsive gaming experience. Its power-efficient design is a bonus for portable devices, and beneficial for any external setup.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Valve Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, Microsoft Surface, and select Dell laptops for easy portable upgrades.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100MB/s read and 6,000MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious NVMe SSD: 2TB capacity with compact M.2 2230 NVMe SSD form factor.
- Power-efficient Design: Engineered for low power draw to extend battery life.
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Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
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Pros:
- Extremely high speeds, great for other compatible devices.
- Compact form factor is useful for custom builds or specific enclosures.
- Power-efficient operation.
- Reliable Micron quality.
- Cons:
- Not an internal PS4 solution.
- Requires a specific M.2 2230 compatible external enclosure for PS4 use.
User Impressions: Owners of handheld gaming devices rave about this drive for its perfect fit and significant speed boost. For PS4 users utilizing it externally, the speed benefits are palpable, even if the compact size isn’t directly relevant to the PS4 itself.
9. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD (with Adobe Acrobat Pro bonus)
Essentially identical in core performance to the X10 Pro (Product 7), this specific offering distinguishes itself with an enhanced software bundle. Beyond the Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image, it includes one month of Adobe Acrobat Pro. For professional creators or students who rely on Adobe software alongside their gaming, this bonus adds extra value to an already top-tier, ultra-fast external SSD. It delivers the same phenomenal speed and durability for your PS4 games.
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Store high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and current projects with this compact 2TB SSD.
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Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+, one month of Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Unmatched external SSD speeds for the fastest PS4 game loading.
- Exceptional durability and professional-grade security.
- Valuable bonus software, including Adobe Acrobat Pro.
- Broad compatibility.
- Cons:
- Premium price.
- The bonus software might not be relevant for all users, potentially making it pricier if only the drive is needed.
User Impressions: This version of the X10 Pro receives the same stellar reviews for its speed and ruggedness. Users who utilize the bonus software find it to be an excellent overall package. For PS4 users, it’s a pure performance play.
10. Crucial X9 Pro for Mac 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 Pro for Mac is specifically optimized for Apple’s file system (APFS) and boasts seamless compatibility with various Apple devices, yet it retains broad compatibility with Windows, Linux, and importantly, PS4 and PS5. While optimized for Mac, its core performance – 1050MB/s read and write speeds – remains excellent for any compatible device. This makes it a versatile choice if you’re a multi-platform user who values robust performance for your PS4 gaming.
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Optimized for Apple’s file system (APFS) and fully compatible with iMac, MacBook, Mac Mini, iPad Pro, and iPhone 16. Also works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
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Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Optimized for Mac but fully compatible with PS4.
- Consistent and fast read/write speeds.
- Durable design with IP55 rating and security features.
- Highly versatile for multi-device users.
- Cons:
- The “for Mac” optimization might not be necessary if you’re solely a PS4 user (though it doesn’t hinder performance).
- Speeds are not as high as the X10/X10 Pro series.
User Impressions: Mac users highly appreciate the out-of-the-box compatibility and performance. PS4 users find it to be a reliable, fast, and durable external drive, perfect for expanding their game library without compatibility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is it really worth upgrading my PS4 with an SSD?
A: Absolutely! The PS4’s original hard drive is often the biggest bottleneck. Upgrading to an SSD, especially the Crucial best 2TB SSD for PS4, can drastically reduce game loading times, improve texture pop-in, and make the console’s UI feel much snappier. You’ll spend less time waiting and more time playing.
Q2: Can I use any 2TB SSD with my PS4?
A: For internal upgrades, your PS4 requires a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD. For external storage, you can use any USB 3.0 compatible external SSD. Many high-performance NVMe (M.2) SSDs are designed for PCs or PS5s, but can be used externally with your PS4 if placed in a compatible USB enclosure.
Q3: How much faster will my PS4 be with a 2TB SSD?
A: While exact numbers vary by game and SSD model, you can expect games to load anywhere from 20% to 70% faster compared to the stock HDD. Some games might even load twice as fast! The PS4’s USB 3.0 ports might bottleneck the absolute top speeds of external drives like the X10 Pro, but the improvement over a hard drive is still massive.
Q4: Is an external SSD or internal SSD better for my PS4?
A:
* Internal SSD: Offers the best overall performance improvement for the entire system (OS and games), as it replaces the primary drive. Installation requires opening the PS4.
* External SSD: Simpler to install (plug-and-play via USB). Great for expanding game storage and improving load times for games installed on it. It won’t speed up the console’s operating system as much as an internal replacement.
Q5: How do I install an internal 2TB SSD in my PS4?
A: The process involves backing up your data, physically replacing the old hard drive with the new 2.5-inch SATA SSD, and then reinstalling the PS4 system software via a USB drive. Sony provides official guides, and there are many helpful video tutorials online that walk you through each step.
Q6: Do I need to reformat an external SSD for PS4?
A: Yes. When you first connect an external SSD to your PS4, the console will prompt you to format it as “extended storage.” This process prepares the drive for exclusive use with your PS4 games and applications.
Q7: Will a 2TB SSD improve frame rates on my PS4?
A: An SSD primarily improves load times and texture streaming, not stable frame rates. Frame rates are determined by the PS4’s CPU and GPU. However, in games where assets stream in quickly, an SSD can reduce stuttering or frame drops caused by slow data retrieval from the hard drive.
Q8: What Crucial best 2TB SSD for PS4 would you recommend for maximum convenience?
A: For maximum convenience and ease of use, an external portable SSD like the Crucial X9 Portable SSD or the Crucial X10 Portable SSD is your best bet. Just plug it into a USB 3.0 port, format it, and you’re ready to start downloading games.
Upgrading your PS4’s storage with one of these Crucial best 2TB SSD for PS4 options is one of the most impactful improvements you can make. Say goodbye to long loading screens and hello to a smoother, more enjoyable gaming experience! Happy gaming!