Is your PS4 feeling a bit sluggish? Are game load times eating into your precious gaming sessions, or are you constantly deleting games to make space for new ones? You’re not alone! Many PS4 owners hit a wall with the console’s standard hard drive. The good news is, upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) can be a real game-changer, breathing new life into your PlayStation 4. When it comes to reliable and high-performance storage, Crucial is a name that often pops up, and for good reason. They offer a fantastic range of SSDs that are perfect for boosting your PS4 experience.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into some of the best Crucial best SSD drive for PS4 options available. We’ll explore both internal and external drives, breaking down what makes each one stand out so you can pick the perfect upgrade for your gaming rig.
Why Upgrade Your PS4 with a Crucial SSD?
Let’s be real, the PS4’s stock hard drive is, well, old tech. It’s a traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive) with spinning platters, which means slower data access compared to an SSD. Upgrading to a solid-state drive offers several significant advantages:
- Blazing Fast Load Times: This is the big one! Games will load much faster, textures will pop in quicker, and you’ll spend less time staring at loading screens.
- Smoother Gameplay: While an SSD won’t improve frame rates directly, it can reduce stuttering in open-world games where data is constantly streamed from storage.
- Quicker Boot-up and System Responsiveness: Your PS4 will boot faster, and navigating the XMB (PS4 menu) will feel snappier.
- Increased Storage Capacity: Modern games are massive. An SSD upgrade means more space for your digital library without constant juggling.
- Durability and Reliability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resistant to drops and bumps compared to HDDs.
- Quieter Operation: No spinning platters means less noise!
Crucial, a brand under Micron (one of the world’s largest memory and storage manufacturers), brings decades of experience to the table. Their SSDs are known for their performance, reliability, and excellent value, making them a top choice for a PS4 storage upgrade.
How to Choose the Right SSD for Your PS4
When looking for the Crucial best SSD drive for PS4, you have a couple of main routes:
- Internal SSD: This involves replacing the PS4’s existing 2.5-inch SATA hard drive. It’s a more involved process but results in a seamlessly integrated upgrade. You’ll need a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD.
- External SSD: This is a super easy plug-and-play option. You connect an external portable SSD via USB to one of your PS4’s USB ports. This is great for adding extra storage without opening up your console.
Consider the following when making your choice:
- Capacity: Games are huge! A 1TB SSD is a good starting point, but 2TB or even 4TB will give you much more breathing room.
- Speed: For internal drives, the PS4’s SATA III interface limits speeds to around 550MB/s, so don’t worry too much about SSDs that boast thousands of MB/s (unless you also plan to use it for a PC). For external drives, USB 3.0/3.2 provides excellent speeds that are a significant upgrade over the internal HDD.
- Budget: SSDs come at various price points. Crucial offers options for every wallet.
Now, let’s dive into the reviews of the 10 top Crucial best SSD drive for PS4 options!
Product Reviews
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
If you’re looking to swap out your PS4’s sluggish internal hard drive for a serious speed boost without breaking the bank, the Crucial BX500 1TB is an excellent choice. This 2.5-inch SATA SSD is specifically designed to fit into your PS4’s internal drive bay, offering a direct and impactful upgrade that will dramatically cut down on loading screens and improve overall system responsiveness. It’s all about getting you into your games faster and keeping you there.
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Key Features:
- Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
- Up to 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
- Improves battery life (for laptops, though less relevant for PS4) because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive.
- Micron 3D NAND technology ensures reliable performance.
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Significant improvement in PS4 load times and menu navigation.
- 1TB capacity offers ample space for a large game library.
- Very energy efficient, leading to cooler operation.
- Affordable entry point for an internal SSD upgrade.
- Reliable Crucial branding and warranty.
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Cons:
- Installation requires opening the PS4 and transferring data.
- SATA III interface is limited by PS4, so you won’t get full advertised speeds of higher-end SSDs.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently rave about the “night and day” difference this SSD makes to their PS4. They love the faster load times and the feeling of a more responsive console. Many comment on how easy the installation process was, making it a popular choice for DIY upgrades.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
Need more space than 1TB but still want the undeniable speed benefits of an internal SSD for your PS4? The Crucial BX500 2TB steps up to the plate. This larger capacity version of the BX500 series delivers the same fantastic performance boost – quicker game loads, faster boot-ups, and a snappier interface – but doubles your storage. It’s the perfect sweet spot for gamers with a growing digital library who want fewer compromises between speed and space.
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Key Features:
- Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
- Up to 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
- Improves battery life (for laptops) because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive.
- Micron 3D NAND technology for solid reliability.
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of performance and storage capacity for PS4.
- Noticeably faster load times and overall PS4 responsiveness.
- Direct internal replacement, keeping your setup clean.
- Good value for a 2TB internal SSD.
- Robust Crucial warranty.
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Cons:
- Requires internal installation and data transfer.
- Speed is capped by the PS4’s SATA III interface.
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User Impressions: Users report being incredibly happy with the 2TB BX500, especially praising the significant increase in available storage alongside the speed benefits. They highlight how much more enjoyable their gaming experience has become, no longer needing to constantly manage game installs.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial BX500 4TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
For the ultimate PS4 storage enthusiast, the Crucial BX500 4TB is a dream come true. This beast of a drive provides an enormous amount of space, virtually eliminating storage concerns for even the most avid game collectors. Imagine having almost every game you own installed and ready to play at SSD speeds! It’s the same reliable BX500 performance you’d expect, just super-sized, ensuring you get the fastest load times and system responsiveness without ever having to delete a game again (well, almost!).
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Key Features:
- Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
- Up to 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
- Improves battery life (for laptops) because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive.
- Micron 3D NAND for consistent, long-term performance.
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB storage capacity is perfect for large game libraries.
- Dramatic improvement in PS4 loading and overall speed.
- Internal installation for a clean, integrated solution.
- Offers the best of both worlds: extreme storage and SSD performance.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to capacity.
- Requires opening the PS4 for installation.
- PS4’s SATA III interface will limit maximum potential speeds.
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User Impressions: Those who opt for the 4TB BX500 are ecstatic about the sheer volume of games they can now keep installed. The combination of vast storage and speed makes it a top-tier upgrade, often described as a “must-have” for serious PS4 gamers looking to maximize their console’s potential.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD is an absolute powerhouse for those needing colossal external storage and lightning-fast speeds. While the PS4 won’t fully utilize its incredible 2,100MB/s read speeds due to USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 limitations (PS4 uses USB 3.0), it will still deliver a massive performance leap over the internal HDD for games installed on it. What really makes this stand out is its robust build, IP65 dust and water resistance, and gargantuan 8TB capacity, making it perfect for gamers who want all their games on an external drive and the peace of mind of extreme durability.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds (for compatible devices).
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres).
- 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: Massive 8TB for all your photos, videos, backups, and games.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Unrivaled 8TB capacity means you’ll virtually never run out of space.
- Exceptional durability and weather resistance for worry-free use.
- Easy plug-and-play setup for PS4 via USB.
- Massive speed improvement for game loading compared to internal PS4 HDD.
- Future-proofed with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for newer devices.
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Cons:
- PS4 cannot fully utilize the drive’s maximum potential speed.
- Premium price tag due to capacity and advanced features.
- Requires an available USB port on your PS4.
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User Impressions: Users are impressed by the X10’s incredible capacity and robust design. While acknowledging the PS4’s limitations, they still appreciate the significant speed boost for games and the convenience of having an entire game library on a single, durable external drive. It’s often praised for its versatility across multiple devices.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD hits a sweet spot for PS4 gamers seeking a balance of ample storage, impressive speed, and reliable portability. With up to 1050MB/s, it delivers a substantial speed upgrade for external game storage, making load times noticeably quicker than the PS4’s internal HDD. Its rugged design, featuring IP55 water and dust resistance and drop protection, means you can confidently take your game library on the go or just have peace of mind next to your console.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for faster transfers and game loading.
- 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: Compact 2TB SSD for games, photos, videos, and backups.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent 2TB capacity for a solid game library.
- Significant speed improvement for PS4 external game storage.
- Very durable and portable design.
- Easy plug-and-play setup with PS4.
- Good value for the capacity and performance.
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Cons:
- Not as fast as the X10 series (though still very fast for PS4).
- Requires a USB port on your PS4.
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently commend the X9 2TB for its reliable performance and solid build quality. PS4 users specifically note the reduced loading times for their installed games and appreciate the peace of mind offered by its durability. It’s seen as a fantastic upgrade for expanding storage and speed.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Please Note: The Crucial P310 is a PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD, which is not directly compatible with the PS4’s internal 2.5-inch SATA drive bay. While it boasts incredible speeds (up to 7,100 MB/s read!), these are designed for modern PCs, laptops, and consoles that support M.2 NVMe drives. For PS4 users, this drive would require an external NVMe enclosure to function as an external USB storage device, and even then, its extreme speeds would be capped by the PS4’s USB 3.0 interface. Therefore, while it’s a phenomenal drive for compatible systems, it’s not a straightforward “Crucial best SSD drive for PS4” in the way the BX500 internal drives or X-series external drives are. We’ve included it here to show the breadth of Crucial’s offerings, but advise PS4 users to consider the other options first for direct compatibility and ease of use.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 1TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media.
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles (like ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, AYANEO Kun).
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
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Pros:
- Absolutely blistering speeds for compatible systems.
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor.
- Excellent for PC gaming, content creation, and professional use.
- High-quality Micron NAND ensures reliability.
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Cons:
- Not directly compatible for internal use in a PS4.
- Requires an external enclosure for PS4 external use, and speeds will be throttled.
- Its high-performance capabilities are largely wasted on a PS4.
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User Impressions: For users with compatible devices (PCs, modern gaming handhelds), the P310 receives stellar reviews for its incredible speed and smooth performance. It’s often praised for significantly cutting down load times in demanding applications and games. PS4 users would only consider this with specific external enclosures and manage their expectations regarding speed.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
If you’re after extreme durability and impressive speed in a compact package for your PS4’s external storage, the Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD is a fantastic choice. Even though the PS4 won’t max out its 2,100MB/s speeds, you’ll still experience significantly faster game loading compared to the internal HDD. The real bonus here is its rugged build, offering IP65 dust and water resistance and serious drop protection, making it perfect for taking games to a friend’s house or simply for peace of mind at home.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds (for compatible devices).
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres).
- 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: Compact 1TB SSD for games, photos, videos, and backups.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent durability and resistance to elements.
- Very fast speeds (even if capped by PS4 USB 3.0).
- Easy to set up and use as external PS4 storage.
- Generous 1TB capacity for a portable drive.
- Compact and travel-friendly design.
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Cons:
- PS4’s USB interface won’t allow full utilization of peak speeds.
- Premium pricing for the X10’s advanced features.
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User Impressions: Users love the X10 for its robust construction and speed. PS4 owners confirm that it provides a very noticeable improvement in game loading times, and they appreciate the convenience of an external drive that can withstand accidental bumps and spills. It’s a top pick for those prioritizing both speed and resilience.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD offers a superb blend of performance, durability, and value for PS4 owners looking to expand their storage externally. With speeds up to 1050MB/s, it’s significantly faster than the PS4’s stock hard drive, ensuring quicker game loads and a smoother gaming experience. Its IP55 water and dust resistance, coupled with drop protection, means this portable drive is built to last, whether it’s staying next to your console or traveling with you.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for faster file transfers and game loading.
- 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: Compact 1TB SSD for games, photos, videos, and backups.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed boost for external PS4 game storage.
- Very durable and portable design for peace of mind.
- Simple plug-and-play setup for PS4.
- 1TB capacity is a great starting point for expanded storage.
- Strong value for money.
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Cons:
- Requires an open USB port on your PS4.
- Not as fast as the X10 series (though still more than adequate for PS4).
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User Impressions: This 1TB X9 is a popular choice among PS4 users who want a noticeable performance upgrade without spending a fortune. Customers highlight its reliability, compact size, and the significant reduction in game loading times. It’s often recommended as a robust and practical external storage solution.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read
For professional creators and serious gamers who demand top-tier performance and security, the Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD delivers. While its extreme speeds (up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write) won’t be fully utilized by the PS4, it still offers phenomenal game loading times and a highly robust, secure storage solution. Its IP55 resistance, drop protection, and bonus features like a lanyard loop and SSD password protection make it ideal for anyone who needs their data safe and accessible, whether they’re gaming or working in the field.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds (for compatible devices).
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes lanyard loop 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: Compact 2TB SSD for high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and games.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Outstanding speed for external storage, even if capped by PS4.
- Highly durable with excellent water/dust resistance and drop protection.
- Enhanced security features like password protection.
- 2TB capacity is ample for a substantial game library.
- Versatile for professional and gaming use across multiple platforms.
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Cons:
- Premium price point.
- PS4’s USB limitations mean its full speed potential isn’t reached.
- Some features (like password protection) are more geared towards PC use.
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User Impressions: Users praise the X10 Pro for its professional-grade performance and rock-solid reliability. For PS4 users, it’s a premium external storage option that significantly improves load times while offering peace of mind regarding data security and physical resilience. It’s often chosen by those who also use it for other high-demand tasks on PCs.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
If you’ve got a massive collection of PS4 games and prefer the convenience of external storage, the Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD is an absolute game-changer. It combines a huge 4TB capacity with impressive speeds (up to 1050MB/s), ensuring your games load quickly while offering virtually unlimited space for your digital library. Plus, its rugged design with IP55 water and dust resistance and drop protection means your precious games are safe wherever you go.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s accelerates large file transfers and game loading.
- 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 4TB SSD.
- Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB capacity to store almost every PS4 game you own.
- Significant speed improvement for external game loading.
- Durable and portable design.
- Easy plug-and-play setup for PS4.
- Excellent balance of size, speed, and capacity for external storage.
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Cons:
- Requires an available USB port on your PS4.
- Higher price due to the large capacity.
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User Impressions: Users who bought the 4TB X9 are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the freedom it gives them to download and keep countless games without worrying about storage. The speed increase is consistently praised, making it a highly recommended external storage solution for serious PS4 gamers with extensive libraries.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section
Q1: Will a Crucial SSD really make a difference on my PS4?
A: Absolutely! While the PS4’s internal hardware has limitations (like the SATA III interface for internal drives and USB 3.0 for external), upgrading from the stock HDD to any of these Crucial SSDs will result in significantly faster game loading times, quicker system boot-ups, and a more responsive user interface. It’s one of the best upgrades you can make for an aging PS4.
Q2: Should I get an internal or external Crucial SSD for my PS4?
A: It depends on your preference!
* Internal SSDs (e.g., Crucial BX500 series) replace the PS4’s original drive, offering a seamless, integrated upgrade for games run directly from the console’s primary storage. This requires opening the PS4.
* External SSDs (e.g., Crucial X-series) connect via USB. They’re plug-and-play, super easy to set up, and are great for expanding storage without opening the console. Games installed on external drives will still load much faster than from the internal HDD.
Q3: How do I install a Crucial internal SSD in my PS4?
A: Installing an internal SSD in a PS4 (Original, Slim, or Pro) involves a few steps:
1. Backup your data: Use a USB drive to back up your save files, screenshots, and videos.
2. Download the PS4 reinstallation file: You’ll need this on a USB drive to reinstall the PS4 system software on your new SSD.
3. Remove the old HDD: This usually involves sliding off the drive bay cover and unscrewing a few screws.
4. Insert the new Crucial SSD: Mount it in the caddy and slide it into the PS4.
5. Reinstall system software: Boot the PS4 into Safe Mode and follow the on-screen prompts to install the software from your USB drive.
It’s a straightforward process, but if you’re uncomfortable, consider professional help.
Q4: Can I use an external Crucial SSD for all my PS4 games?
A: Yes! The PS4 allows you to designate an external USB 3.0 or later drive as “extended storage” for installing games and applications. You can then download and install all your digital games directly to the external SSD. You can also move games from your internal drive to the external drive and vice versa.
Q5: Will an SSD void my PS4’s warranty?
A: For the PS4, replacing the internal hard drive with an SSD typically does NOT void your warranty, as Sony designed it to be user-replaceable. However, always check your specific warranty terms or Sony’s official support documentation for the most up-to-date information. For external SSDs, there’s no impact on the warranty whatsoever, as you’re not modifying the console.
Q6: What capacity Crucial SSD do I need for my PS4?
A: This depends on your gaming habits:
* 1TB: A good starting point, especially if you manage your game library and delete games you’re not actively playing.
* 2TB: A popular choice, offering plenty of space for many AAA titles without constant deletion.
* 4TB+: Ideal for avid collectors, those with large digital libraries, or anyone who hates managing storage.
Q7: Does the Crucial X10’s ultra-fast speed really matter for PS4?
A: While the Crucial X10 series boasts speeds of up to 2,100MB/s, the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports will cap the actual transfer speeds at around 300-400MB/s. However, this is still significantly faster than the PS4’s internal HDD (which hovers around 50-100MB/s for game loading) and will provide a very noticeable performance boost for your games. So, yes, it still matters, even if not at its absolute peak performance.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PS4 with a Crucial SSD is hands down one of the best ways to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you opt for an internal swap with a Crucial BX500 to supercharge your console’s core, or choose an external Crucial X-series drive for massive, plug-and-play storage and speed, you’re in for a treat. Faster load times, smoother gameplay, and more space for your favorite titles are all within reach.
We’ve covered some fantastic options for the Crucial best SSD drive for PS4, each bringing its own strengths to the table. Consider your budget, desired capacity, and whether you prefer an internal or external solution, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your PS4 like never before. Say goodbye to endless loading screens and hello to more gaming!