Are you tired of constantly deleting games to make space on your PlayStation 5? Do you crave lightning-fast load times and seamless gaming experiences? If you’re a serious gamer, you know the struggle is real. The PS5 offers incredible performance, but its internal storage can fill up surprisingly quickly, especially with today’s massive game files. That’s where an M.2 SSD upgrade comes in, and finding the Lexar best 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5 can transform your gaming life.
Adding an internal M.2 SSD is the ultimate solution for expanding your PS5’s storage and boosting performance. It means more games, less waiting, and a smoother overall experience. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? We’ve delved deep into the world of high-performance SSDs to bring you a comprehensive review of the top 4TB M.2 SSDs suitable for your PS5, with a special focus on Lexar’s excellent offerings, to help you find the Lexar best 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5 that fits your needs.
Let’s dive into the best options that will make your PS5 roar!
1. Lexar 4TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
This Lexar NM790 model is a fantastic choice for PS5 gamers who prioritize both speed and thermal management. Boasting impressive read and write speeds, it’s engineered to cut down load times drastically, ensuring you spend more time playing and less time waiting. What truly makes it stand out is the integrated heatsink, which is absolutely crucial for sustained performance during intense gaming sessions, keeping your drive cool and efficient. It’s a plug-and-play powerhouse ready for your console.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity with exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- Designed with a heatsink for optimal cooling and power efficiency.
- 3000TBW endurance and 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer speeds.
- Fully compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for rapid game loading.
- Pre-installed heatsink simplifies PS5 installation.
- Energy-efficient design.
- High durability (3000TBW).
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Cons:
- May be slightly pricier due to the integrated heatsink.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise its ease of installation in the PS5 and the noticeable boost in game loading times. The heatsink is often highlighted as a major plus for worry-free, long-duration play. Many users consider it a top contender when looking for the Lexar best 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5.
2. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe
The Lexar Play SSD is tailor-made for gamers, designed not just for performance but also with an aesthetic that complements the PS5. This drive offers blazing speeds that significantly reduce game load times and provide a buttery-smooth gaming experience. Its standout feature is its official “tested and approved” status for the PS5, which provides peace of mind, allowing you to play games directly from the drive without any fuss. The unique heatsink ensures your SSD stays cool, even during the most demanding titles.
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Key Features:
- Specifically designed to coordinate with your PS5, enhancing the gaming experience.
- Max read/write speeds of 7400MB/s and 6500MB/s for reduced load times.
- 4TB capacity with 3200TBW endurance.
- Tested and approved storage for PS5; play games directly from the drive.
- Unique heatsink included for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- Also suitable for PC gaming, with HMB and SLC Dynamic cache.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Optimized and approved for PS5, ensuring compatibility.
- High speeds deliver a seamless gaming experience.
- Dedicated heatsink for efficient cooling.
- Play games directly without transferring.
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Cons:
- “Unique” heatsink design might not appeal to everyone visually (though functionally excellent).
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User Impressions: PS5 owners love the “plug and play” nature and the fact they don’t have to worry about compatibility. The speed improvement is highly lauded, making it a favorite for those seeking a straightforward and powerful PS5 upgrade.
3. Lexar 4TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re looking for raw speed without the integrated heatsink (perhaps you prefer to add your own, or your system has its own cooling solution), this version of the Lexar NM790 is an exceptional contender. It packs the same formidable performance as its heatsink-equipped sibling, offering incredible read and write speeds that are ideal for hardcore gamers, creative professionals, and anyone who demands top-tier data access. Its compatibility with PS5 and energy efficiency make it a smart choice for a powerful storage upgrade.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity with exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- 3000TBW endurance, 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer and seamless performance.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and perfect for laptops (single-sided).
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds for all demanding tasks.
- Energy-efficient operation.
- Versatile for PS5, PC, and laptops.
- Great value if you can source a separate heatsink.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use (not included).
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User Impressions: Users report outstanding performance for both gaming and heavy computational tasks. Those who opted to buy and install their own heatsink found it to be a cost-effective way to get high-end performance for their PS5.
4. Lexar 4TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Stepping into the future, the Lexar NM1090 PRO is a next-generation beast with PCIe Gen5 technology. While the PS5 currently only supports PCIe Gen4 speeds, this drive is an investment in future-proofing and delivers unparalleled performance for PC setups. For PS5 users, it means you’re getting a top-tier drive that far exceeds the console’s requirements, guaranteeing exceptional speeds within the Gen4 limitations and providing headroom for future console iterations or PC builds. It’s a true speed demon for the ultimate enthusiast.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology delivering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s (for compatible Gen5 systems).
- Accelerates load times by 200% on Gen5 systems.
- Powerful 6nm controller for optimized heat control and efficient performance.
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks.
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache for greatly enhanced data transfer speeds.
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage (PC feature).
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Pros:
- Unmatched future-proof performance for PCIe Gen5 systems.
- Excellent heat management from the controller.
- Significant performance boost for compatible PCs.
- Will run at maximum possible PCIe Gen4 speeds on PS5.
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Cons:
- PS5 currently cannot utilize its full PCIe Gen5 potential.
- Likely higher cost compared to Gen4 drives.
- Requires an aftermarket heatsink for PS5 installation.
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User Impressions: Early adopters are thrilled with its groundbreaking speed on compatible PCs. For PS5 users, it’s chosen by those who want the absolute best and don’t mind overspeccing for current console limits, ensuring top-tier Gen4 performance and readiness for future tech.
5. SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2
When it comes to high-performance SSDs, Samsung’s 990 PRO with Heatsink is a legendary name, and for good reason. This 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD delivers blistering Gen4 speeds that push the limits of what the PS5 can handle, significantly reducing load times and enhancing overall system responsiveness. The ultra-slim integrated heatsink isn’t just for show; it’s meticulously designed to dissipate heat, ensuring your drive maintains peak performance during even the longest gaming marathons. It’s a premium choice for serious gamers.
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Key Features:
- Near max performance of PCIe Gen 4 with speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- Integrated ultra-slim Heatsink for improved temperature control.
- More than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
- Made with PS5 in mind, compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops/laptops.
- From the world’s #1 flash memory brand.
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Pros:
- Exceptional, near-max Gen4 speeds.
- Effective and slim integrated heatsink.
- Reliable brand reputation.
- Specifically designed for PS5 compatibility.
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Cons:
- Premium price point.
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User Impressions: The Samsung 990 PRO consistently receives rave reviews for its unparalleled speed and reliability. PS5 users particularly appreciate the ease of installation with the integrated heatsink and the noticeable performance gains, calling it a truly “next-level” upgrade.
6. MOVE SPEED HB7450 4TB Internal Solid State Drive for PS5
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 is a strong contender for PS5 owners looking for a high-speed, capacious upgrade that won’t break the bank. This 4TB NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 SSD delivers impressive read and write speeds, ensuring your games load incredibly fast. What’s more, it comes with a built-in graphene composite heat sink and an uninstalled heatsink in the package, giving you flexible cooling options. Its rigorous testing and large capacity make it a reliable choice for housing a massive game library.
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Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 interface with read/write speeds up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s.
- 2x faster than PCIe 3.0, 13.5x faster than SATA SSDs.
- Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC, M.2 2280 form factor.
- Large 4TB storage capacity, capable of storing up to 100 PS5 games.
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink and an additional uninstalled heatsink included.
- Utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
- Undergoes 80-hour rigorous testing for stability and long service life.
- Package includes SSD, heatsink, screws, screwdriver, user manual.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for a high-speed 4TB SSD.
- Flexible cooling options with two heatsink solutions.
- Massive storage for a vast game library.
- Thoroughly tested for reliability.
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Cons:
- Brand recognition might not be as high as Lexar or Samsung.
- The additional heatsink requires manual installation.
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User Impressions: Customers are pleasantly surprised by the performance-to-price ratio. The inclusion of both a built-in and a separate heatsink is a big hit, offering great flexibility. PS5 users report significantly faster load times and appreciate the ample storage for their growing game collections.
7. Lexar EQ790 SSD 4TB, M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe 1.4
The Lexar EQ790 offers a compelling blend of performance and value for PS5 users. This 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD utilizes the PCIe 4.0 interface to deliver fast sequential read/write speeds, ensuring a snappier, more responsive gaming experience. With HMB and SLC cache technologies, it’s designed to keep data transfers smooth and efficient. While it might not have the absolute top-tier speeds of some premium drives, it’s a solid, reliable choice that significantly outperforms the standard PS5 internal drive and provides ample space.
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Key Features:
- Better performance for an improved user experience thanks to PCIe 4.0 interface.
- NVMe protocol and HMB and SLC cache technologies.
- High-performance with sequential read/write speeds up to 7000/6000MB/s.
- 4TB capacity.
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Pros:
- Good speeds for an enhanced gaming experience.
- Utilizes efficient caching technologies.
- Reputable Lexar quality.
- Potentially more budget-friendly than top-end drives.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use.
- Slightly lower peak speeds compared to the NM790 series.
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User Impressions: Users find the EQ790 to be a dependable workhorse for their PS5. It delivers a noticeable performance upgrade without breaking the bank, especially when paired with an aftermarket heatsink. It’s often recommended as a cost-effective way to get the Lexar best 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5 experience.
8. WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
While our focus is on 4TB, the WD_BLACK SN7100 (specifically listed as 2TB but available in capacities up to 4TB) is a serious contender from a trusted brand. This NVMe gaming SSD delivers high-octane performance with impressive read and write speeds, making it perfect for demanding games. It’s designed with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, offering great power efficiency, but its raw speed makes it a fantastic option for the PS5 (assuming you get the 4TB version). The downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard is a bonus for PC users to optimize performance.
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Key Features:
- High-octane gaming performance with speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- Up to 35% faster performance than previous generation.
- Purpose-built with a PCIe Gen4 interface and Western Digital’s next generation TLC 3D NAND.
- Available in multiple capacities up to 4TB.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for optimization.
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for gaming and demanding applications.
- Highly power-efficient.
- Reliable brand reputation.
- Available in a 4TB capacity.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 installation.
- Specific listing here is for 2TB, but 4TB is available in the product line.
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User Impressions: Gamers appreciate the consistent and powerful performance of WD_BLACK drives. Many report smooth gameplay and significantly reduced load times across various platforms, including PS5 (with an added heatsink).
9. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
For PlayStation 5 owners who want the absolute gold standard in terms of compatibility and ease of mind, the WD_BLACK SN850P is the only officially licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles. This means you get guaranteed compatibility and an optimized experience right out of the box. With blazing-fast read speeds and a custom-designed heatsink specifically for the PS5, it ensures uninterrupted gameplay and incredibly short load times. It’s the ultimate hassle-free, premium upgrade for your PS5.
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Key Features:
- The ONLY Officially licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles.
- Capacities up to 4TB, storing up to 100 games (4TB model).
- Brand-new, optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console.
- Play directly from the drive, eliminating the need to transfer or delete games.
- Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
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Pros:
- Officially licensed by PlayStation for guaranteed compatibility.
- Custom heatsink optimized for PS5 installation.
- Exceptional read speeds.
- Massive storage capacity.
- Includes PlayStation Plus trial.
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Cons:
- Typically the most expensive option due to official licensing.
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User Impressions: This drive is a huge hit with PS5 owners who value simplicity and official backing. The easy, worry-free installation and the promise of guaranteed compatibility make it worth the premium for many. Performance is consistently described as flawless, delivering on all its promises.
10. Lexar Nm790 M.2 4 Tb Pci Express 4.0 Nvme, W128564141
This listing appears to be another variant or perhaps a general representation of the Lexar NM790 4TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD. While specific features beyond its basic identification number (W128564141) aren’t detailed, we can infer it shares the core high-performance characteristics of the NM790 series. This means you can expect rapid data transfer speeds, making it an excellent candidate for expanding your PS5’s storage. Like other non-heatsink models, it will require a separate heatsink for optimal PS5 performance, but it provides the raw power base that Lexar is known for.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity with PCIe Express 4.0 NVMe interface.
- Part of the high-performance Lexar NM790 series.
- Designed for fast data transfer and gaming.
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Pros:
- Offers Lexar’s trusted NM790 performance.
- High 4TB capacity for extensive game libraries.
- Solid choice for a PS5 upgrade.
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Cons:
- Lack of specific detailed features in the listing.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 compatibility.
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User Impressions: General feedback for Lexar NM790 series drives points to strong performance and reliability. Users who purchase this type of SKU often pair it with a cost-effective third-party heatsink for their PS5, achieving excellent results.
Final Thoughts on Your PS5 SSD Upgrade
Upgrading your PlayStation 5 with a high-capacity M.2 SSD is one of the best investments you can make for your gaming setup. It’s not just about storage; it’s about transforming your entire gaming experience with faster load times and the freedom to keep all your favorite titles installed.
Whether you go for a dedicated Lexar best 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5 with an integrated heatsink like the Lexar NM790 or Play, opt for the future-proof Lexar NM1090 PRO, or choose an officially licensed drive like the WD_BLACK SN850P, you’re in for a treat. Remember to always consider a heatsink for sustained performance, especially if the drive doesn’t come with one built-in.
Happy gaming, and enjoy your expanded, lightning-fast PS5!
FAQ: Your Top Questions About PS5 M.2 SSDs Answered
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5?
A1: An M.2 SSD expands your PS5’s usable storage beyond the console’s built-in drive, allowing you to install more games. Crucially, it also offers significantly faster read/write speeds than external hard drives, leading to much quicker game loading times and smoother gameplay for titles installed on the SSD.
Q2: What are the minimum requirements for a PS5-compatible M.2 SSD?
A2: Sony specifies a few key requirements:
* Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD.
* Capacity: 250 GB – 8 TB.
* Sequential Read Speed: 5,500 MB/s or faster is recommended.
* Form Factor: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110.
* Heatsink: A heatsink is absolutely required. The total size including the heatsink must be no more than 110mm (L) x 25mm (W) x 11.25mm (H).
Q3: Do all M.2 SSDs come with a heatsink, and why is it important for the PS5?
A3: No, not all M.2 SSDs come with a heatsink. Some models, like several Lexar options reviewed, offer both versions (with and without heatsink). A heatsink is vital for the PS5 because modern PCIe Gen4 SSDs generate considerable heat, especially under heavy load during gaming. A heatsink dissipates this heat, preventing thermal throttling (where the drive slows down to prevent overheating) and ensuring consistent, peak performance.
Q4: Is installing an M.2 SSD difficult in the PS5?
A4: No, it’s a relatively straightforward process. Sony has designed the PS5 to make M.2 SSD installation accessible. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, and the process involves removing the console’s side plate, unscrewing a cover, inserting the SSD into the slot, and securing it. There are many excellent video tutorials available online if you need visual guidance.
Q5: Can I play PS5 games directly from the M.2 SSD, or do I need to transfer them?
A5: Yes, you can play PS5 games directly from an installed M.2 SSD. Once formatted and set up in your console, the PS5 treats it as an extension of its internal storage, allowing you to install and launch both PS5 and PS4 games from it without any need for transferring.
Q6: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen4 and PCIe Gen5 SSDs for the PS5?
A6: PCIe Gen4 SSDs are currently the standard for PS5-compatible drives, offering excellent speeds (typically up to ~7400MB/s). PCIe Gen5 SSDs are the next generation, with theoretical speeds up to double that of Gen4 (e.g., 14,000MB/s). While Gen5 drives are future-proof and powerful, the PS5’s M.2 slot currently only supports PCIe Gen4 speeds. This means a Gen5 drive will work in your PS5, but it will operate at Gen4 speeds, not its full Gen5 potential.
Q7: Are there any specific Lexar M.2 SSDs that are better suited for the PS5?
A7: Absolutely! For Lexar, the NM790 series (especially with an integrated heatsink) and the Lexar Play SSD (also with heatsink) are particularly well-suited. They meet or exceed Sony’s recommended speed requirements and offer models with integrated heatsinks, simplifying installation and ensuring optimal thermal performance specifically for the PS5.
Q8: Will adding an M.2 SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A8: No, installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 will not void your warranty, as long as you follow Sony’s official installation instructions and use a compatible M.2 SSD. Sony explicitly provides guidelines for users to expand their storage this way.