Is your PlayStation 4 Pro starting to feel a bit sluggish? Are those loading screens stretching out longer than a director’s cut of your favorite movie? You’re not alone! Many PS4 Pro owners hit a wall with slow game loading, choppy performance, and limited storage. The good news? An SSD upgrade can breathe new life into your console, and Crucial offers some fantastic options.
In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into the crucial best SSD for PS4 Pro options available today. We’ll explore why an SSD makes such a difference, what to look for when choosing one, and review 10 top Crucial drives that can transform your gaming experience. Whether you’re looking for an internal overhaul or a snappy external storage solution, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to say goodbye to long waits and hello to faster, smoother gameplay!
Why Upgrade Your PS4 Pro with an SSD?
Your PS4 Pro originally came with a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), which, while cost-effective, is the slowest component in your console. An SSD (Solid State Drive) uses flash memory to store data, offering significant advantages:
- Blazing Fast Load Times: This is the most noticeable improvement. Games will load significantly faster, letting you jump into the action quicker. Maps will stream in seamlessly, and texture pop-in will be a thing of the past.
- Smoother Gameplay: While an SSD won’t boost your frame rate, it can reduce stuttering and texture loading delays, leading to a more consistent and immersive gaming experience.
- Increased Storage Capacity: Modern games are massive! An SSD upgrade allows you to install more games and applications without constantly deleting old ones.
- Improved System Responsiveness: Navigating the PS4 Pro’s menu, opening apps, and even booting up the console will feel snappier.
- Enhanced Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resilient to drops and bumps compared to delicate HDDs. This is especially beneficial for portable external drives.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an SSD for Your PS4 Pro
Before picking the crucial best SSD for PS4 Pro, keep these points in mind:
- Internal vs. External:
- Internal SSDs (like the Crucial BX500 we’ll review) replace the PS4 Pro’s stock HDD. This offers the most comprehensive speed boost for the entire system, including boot times, menu navigation, and all installed games.
- External SSDs connect via a USB 3.0 port. They’re plug-and-play, perfect for quickly expanding storage, and games installed on them will load much faster than if they were on the internal HDD. You can’t run the PS4 Pro’s OS from an external drive, but you can move games there.
- Capacity: How many games do you play? 1TB is a good starting point, but 2TB or even 4TB offers more breathing room for your ever-growing game library.
- Speed (Read/Write): While the PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 ports (for external SSDs) and SATA III interface (for internal SSDs) have their own speed limits, any SSD will be vastly faster than the original HDD. Higher-end SSDs like the X10 Pro offer incredible speeds that are great for future-proofing or use with PCs, even if the PS4 Pro doesn’t fully utilize them.
- Durability and Features: If you plan on taking your external SSD on the go, look for features like water, dust, and drop resistance. Encryption can also be a plus for data security.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – our top picks for the crucial best SSD for PS4 Pro!
Product Reviews
1. Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 Pro 2TB hits a sweet spot for PS4 Pro gamers seeking a blend of performance and generous storage. This external SSD is a fantastic way to offload your massive game library from your console’s internal drive, delivering significantly faster loading times for all your favorite titles. Its robust build means you don’t have to baby it, whether it’s sitting next to your console or traveling with you.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- Includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for external game storage, drastically cutting load times.
- Very durable and portable design.
- Plug-and-play convenience with broad device compatibility.
- Generous 2TB capacity for a large game library.
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Cons:
- External drive, so it doesn’t improve overall PS4 Pro system responsiveness (boot times, menu).
- Speeds might be slightly bottlenecked by PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0, but still a huge upgrade.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the X9 Pro for its “noticeable speed increase” when playing games stored on it. Users also appreciate its compact size and rugged build, making it a reliable companion for their console setup.
2. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD
If 2TB just isn’t enough for your ever-growing game collection, the Crucial X9 Pro 4TB steps up to the plate. This drive offers all the fantastic features of its 2TB sibling but doubles the storage, making it an ideal choice for serious collectors or anyone tired of constantly juggling games. You get the same robust performance, durability, and seamless compatibility, just with more space to play with.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- Includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB capacity to store an enormous amount of games.
- Excellent speed for external game storage, drastically cutting load times.
- Very durable and portable design.
- Simple plug-and-play setup.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to the increased capacity.
- External drive limitations (doesn’t speed up OS).
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User Impressions: Reviewers love the sheer amount of storage this drive provides, often calling it “the last external drive they’ll ever need.” The speed boost for games is frequently highlighted, making it a top contender for the crucial best SSD for PS4 Pro external storage.
3. Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD
For those who demand nothing but the absolute fastest external storage, the Crucial X10 Pro 4TB is a powerhouse. With speeds significantly higher than the X9 Pro series, this drive offers incredible data transfer rates. While the PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 port might not fully utilize its maximum potential, it still delivers incredibly fast game loading, and you get the benefit of future-proof speed for other devices. The massive 4TB capacity ensures you’ll have room for countless titles.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- Massive 4TB capacity for high-resolution media and projects.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Unparalleled external storage speed, even if slightly throttled by PS4 Pro.
- Huge 4TB capacity for even the largest game libraries.
- Extremely rugged and durable build.
- Versatile compatibility across many devices.
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Cons:
- Premium price tag.
- PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 port cannot fully leverage the drive’s maximum speed.
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User Impressions: Users are blown away by the X10 Pro’s performance, especially when transferring large files or playing games. Its robust design is often cited as a key advantage, and despite the price, many feel it’s a worthy investment for top-tier speed and capacity.
4. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X10 Pro 2TB offers the same blistering speeds as its 4TB counterpart but in a slightly more accessible capacity. This is an excellent option if you want top-tier external speed for your PS4 Pro games without committing to the largest storage size or highest price point. You still get the fantastic durability and broad compatibility that make the X10 Pro series stand out.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- 2TB capacity for ample game storage.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast game loading and data transfers.
- Durable and reliable for both home and travel use.
- Good balance of high speed and generous 2TB capacity.
- Excellent choice for future-proofing your external storage needs.
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Cons:
- Still a premium price for the speed.
- PS4 Pro cannot fully utilize its peak performance.
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User Impressions: Customers love the “instantaneous feel” when loading games from this drive. The durability is a recurring theme, with many appreciating its sturdy build. It’s often recommended for those seeking a premium external SSD experience.
5. Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD
For gamers who want a significant speed boost and extra storage without breaking the bank, the Crucial X9 Pro 1TB is a fantastic starting point. This drive offers ample space for several large games and delivers the same reliable, fast performance as the larger X9 Pro models. It’s an excellent entry point into external SSD gaming, offering fantastic value and the robust build quality Crucial is known for.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- 1TB capacity, perfect for core game libraries.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for a high-performance external SSD.
- Noticeable reduction in game load times.
- Highly durable and portable design.
- Easy to set up and use with your PS4 Pro.
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Cons:
- 1TB might feel limited for very extensive game collections over time.
- Does not improve internal PS4 Pro system speed.
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User Impressions: Many users find the 1TB X9 Pro to be the “perfect balance” of price, performance, and portability. It’s highly rated for significantly improving the PS4 Pro gaming experience, especially for frequently played titles.
6. Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X10 4TB (the non-Pro version, typically in a matte blue finish) is designed with creators, students, and PC gamers in mind, but its blistering speeds and massive capacity make it an incredibly appealing option for PS4 Pro users too. It boasts excellent durability with an even higher IP rating than the Pro models, making it a true road warrior. If you need vast storage and speed for your games and aren’t tied to the “Pro” branding, this is a strong contender.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: up to 2,100MB/s read speeds.
- IP65 dust and water resistance, plus 9.8 ft (3 meters) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- Ultimate 4TB storage capacity for all your files.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Exceptional durability with superior IP65 rating.
- Massive 4TB storage for an expansive game library.
- Very fast read speeds for quick game loading.
- Designed for travel and heavy use.
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Cons:
- Read speeds are emphasized, write speeds not explicitly listed for this variant in the same way as X10 Pro (though usually similar high).
- Similar to other fast external SSDs, PS4 Pro won’t fully utilize its peak speed.
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend its ruggedness and large capacity. Gamers note the clear improvement in loading times. Its matte blue finish is often a visually appealing detail for customers.
7. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD (with Adobe Acrobat Pro)
This variant of the Crucial X10 Pro 2TB offers the same high-speed performance and robust build quality, but with an added software bonus that might appeal to creative professionals or students who also game. You get the phenomenal 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds, IP55 durability, and universal compatibility, making it a versatile choice not just for your PS4 Pro, but for your entire digital ecosystem.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- Massive 2TB capacity for high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and games.
- Bonus Software Included: 3 months of Mylio Photos+, one month of Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Top-tier speed for incredibly fast game loading and data transfers.
- Highly durable design, suitable for travel and demanding environments.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
- Added value with Adobe Acrobat Pro subscription for a month.
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Cons:
- Premium price, partly due to the included software.
- PS4 Pro can’t fully exploit its maximum speeds.
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User Impressions: This version is praised for its “unmatched speed and reliability.” The extra software is a nice bonus for users who can utilize it, making the overall package even more appealing.
8. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
Here’s the one that directly replaces your PS4 Pro’s internal hard drive! The Crucial BX500 1TB is a game-changer for overall system performance. By swapping out your sluggish HDD for this internal SSD, you’ll experience faster boot times, snappier menu navigation, and dramatically reduced load times for all games and applications installed on the console. This is arguably the most impactful upgrade for a PS4 Pro.
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Key Features:
- Boot up faster, load files quicker, and improve overall system responsiveness.
- Up to 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
- 45x more energy-efficient than a typical hard drive, improving battery life (though less critical for a console).
- Micron 3D NAND technology for reliable performance.
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Transforms the entire PS4 Pro experience – faster boot, menus, and all games.
- Significant speed improvement over the stock HDD.
- More energy-efficient and durable than a traditional hard drive.
- Cost-effective way to get internal SSD performance.
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Cons:
- Requires opening the PS4 Pro and performing an internal installation (though relatively straightforward).
- Only 1TB capacity might fill up quickly for avid gamers.
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User Impressions: This drive is a fan favorite for PS4 Pro internal upgrades. Users report “night and day differences” in load times and overall system snappiness. The installation process is often described as “easier than expected,” making it a highly recommended upgrade. This is truly a crucial best SSD for PS4 Pro if you want a full internal replacement.
9. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 2TB (the standard, non-Pro version) is an excellent choice for casual gamers and everyday users who need reliable, fast external storage for their PS4 Pro. While its speeds are slightly less than the X9 Pro, it still offers a massive improvement over an HDD. Its IP55 water and dust resistance, combined with good drop resistance, make it a durable and dependable option for expanding your console’s storage.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance with up to 1050MB/s read speeds, outperforming traditional hard drives.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- High-capacity 2TB storage for photos, videos, backups, and games.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Significant speed boost for games stored externally.
- Good balance of performance, capacity, and price.
- Durable and reliable for everyday use.
- Simple plug-and-play setup.
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Cons:
- Speeds are good but not the absolute fastest offered by Crucial.
- Doesn’t speed up the PS4 Pro’s internal operating system.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the “great value” and “noticeable speed improvements” for their PS4 Pro games. The X9 is often highlighted as a solid, dependable external storage solution that just works.
10. Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD
If you’re looking for extreme speed in a more compact and affordable capacity for external PS4 Pro storage, the Crucial X10 1TB is a compelling option. It offers the same impressive 2,100MB/s read speeds as its larger X10 siblings and the enhanced IP65 durability. This drive is perfect for those who want to experience the fastest possible external game loading for their most-played titles without needing massive storage right away.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: up to 2,100MB/s read speeds.
- IP65 dust and water resistance, plus 9.8 ft (3 metres) drop resistance.
- Broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Windows, Mac, and more via USB-C/A.
- Compact 1TB storage, ideal for core game libraries.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for incredibly fast read speeds in a 1TB capacity.
- Superior durability with IP65 rating and improved drop resistance.
- Compact and highly portable.
- Perfect for frequently played games that benefit most from speed.
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Cons:
- 1TB capacity might be limiting for some users.
- PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 port will bottleneck its maximum potential.
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently call this a “pocket rocket” for its small size and immense speed. Gamers attest to significant reductions in load times. Its ruggedness is also a major plus, making it ideal for taking games on the go between friends’ consoles.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use any SSD with my PS4 Pro?
A1: For internal upgrades, you need a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD. For external storage, any USB 3.0 compatible external SSD will work. All the Crucial options reviewed here are suitable for the PS4 Pro, with the BX500 being an internal option and the rest being external.
Q2: Is it worth upgrading my PS4 Pro with an SSD?
A2: Absolutely! While an SSD won’t improve frame rates (that’s CPU/GPU dependent), it drastically cuts down loading times for games, makes the console’s menu system snappier, and improves overall responsiveness. It’s one of the best upgrades you can make for an aging PS4 Pro.
Q3: How much storage capacity do I need for my PS4 Pro SSD?
A3: This depends on your gaming habits. 1TB is a good starting point for a decent library of games. However, with modern game sizes, 2TB or even 4TB is recommended if you have a large collection or prefer to keep many titles installed without having to constantly delete and re-download.
Q4: Will an external SSD perform as well as an internal one for my PS4 Pro?
A4: An external SSD connected via USB 3.0 will offer significant speed improvements for games installed on it, often nearly matching an internal SATA SSD for game loading. However, an internal SSD upgrade will also improve the PS4 Pro’s boot times and overall system menu responsiveness, which an external drive cannot do.
Q5: How do I install an internal SSD in my PS4 Pro?
A5: Installing an internal SSD involves backing up your data, opening a small bay on the console, swapping the old HDD for the new SSD, and then reinstalling the PS4 system software via a USB drive. Sony provides official guides, and many video tutorials are available online. It’s a relatively straightforward process.
Q6: Can I just move my games from the internal HDD to an external SSD?
A6: Yes! The PS4 Pro has a built-in feature that allows you to move games and applications between the internal storage and an external USB storage device. Simply go to your Settings > Storage > System Storage (or Extended Storage), select the content, and choose to move it.
Q7: Do I need a special formatted SSD for PS4 Pro?
A7: For external drives, the PS4 Pro will format the drive itself when you first connect it and designate it as “Extended Storage.” For internal SSDs, you’ll need to install the PS4 system software onto it after installation, which formats it correctly.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PS4 Pro with a solid state drive is arguably one of the most impactful enhancements you can make. The difference in loading times and overall system snappiness can genuinely revitalize your gaming experience, making those long waits a thing of the past. Crucial, with its reputation for quality and performance, offers a range of excellent options, whether you opt for a full internal overhaul with the Crucial BX500 or an incredibly fast external storage solution like the Crucial X10 Pro.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow down the crucial best SSD for PS4 Pro that fits your needs and budget. Say goodbye to lag and hello to faster, smoother, and more enjoyable gaming sessions!
Ready to boost your PS4 Pro’s performance? Choose your Crucial SSD today!