Is your PlayStation 4 feeling a bit sluggish? Are game loading screens testing your patience? If you’re tired of long boot times and slow game data transfers, upgrading your console’s storage is a fantastic way to breathe new life into it. While the PS4 comes with a traditional hard drive (HDD), swapping it out for a solid-state drive (SSD) can dramatically improve performance.
But which SSD should you choose? You’re looking for a 2.5-inch SATA III drive that’s compatible with your PS4, and Lexar offers some great options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the 10 best Lexar and compatible 2.5 SSDs for PS4 available on the market, helping you pick the perfect upgrade to get back to gaming faster.
Let’s get those load times down and your gaming experience up!
Why Upgrade Your PS4 with an SSD?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly chat about why an SSD is a game-changer for your PS4:
- Faster Boot Times: Your PS4 will power on noticeably quicker.
- Reduced Loading Screens: Say goodbye to staring at loading bars! Games will launch and load levels much faster.
- Smoother Gameplay: While not a massive frame-rate boost, an SSD can help with texture pop-in and overall responsiveness in some games.
- Improved System Responsiveness: Navigating the PS4’s menu feels snappier.
- Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resistant to drops and bumps compared to traditional HDDs.
- Quieter Operation: With no moving platters, SSDs are virtually silent.
Ready to find the ultimate Lexar best 2.5 SSD for PS4 or a top-tier alternative? Let’s check them out!
Our Top Picks for PS4 SSD Upgrades
1. Lexar 2TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
The Lexar NS100 series is a fan favorite for its blend of performance and affordability, and the 2TB version offers a substantial storage boost for your PS4. This drive is a straightforward upgrade for anyone looking to replace their aging HDD with something much faster and more reliable. You’ll notice quicker game loads and a snappier overall console experience. It’s a perfect example of a Lexar best 2.5 SSD for PS4 when you need both speed and ample space.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
– Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– [2TB] 960TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance
– Three-year limited product support
Pros:
– Excellent capacity for a large game library
– Significant speed improvement over HDD
– Durable design with no moving parts
– Reliable Lexar branding
– Good value for money
Cons:
– Not the absolute fastest SSD on the market (but PS4’s SATA II/III interface limits any SSD)
User Impressions:
Customers frequently praise the NS100 for its easy installation and the immediate, noticeable speed improvements. Many users highlight how it transforms their console into a much more responsive machine, making older games feel fresh again.
2. Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
If you’re looking for a cost-effective performance upgrade without needing massive storage, the 512GB Lexar NS100 is an excellent choice. This drive still delivers all the speed benefits of its larger siblings, meaning faster boot times and quicker game loads for your PS4. It’s ideal if you manage your game library carefully or mainly play a few large titles at a time. It’s a reliable entry point into SSD performance.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
– Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– [512GB] 240TBW endurance
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Affordable performance upgrade
– Noticeable speed boost for PS4
– Durable and quiet operation
– Reputable Lexar quality
Cons:
– Might require frequent game management for larger libraries
– The PS4’s SATA interface caps its full potential
User Impressions:
Users love this drive for its “bang for your buck” factor. They report a smooth installation process and are consistently impressed by the significant reduction in loading times across various PS4 titles. It’s often recommended for those on a tighter budget.
3. Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
For the most budget-conscious gamers, the 256GB Lexar NS100 offers the same performance benefits in a smaller package. While 256GB might seem limited for modern games, it’s perfect if you only play a couple of titles at a time and prioritize speed over sheer capacity. It’s still a huge upgrade over the stock HDD in terms of responsiveness and boot times, making it a viable option to experience the benefits of a Lexar best 2.5 SSD for PS4 without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 520MB/s
– Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– [256GB] 120TBW endurance
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Very affordable way to get SSD speeds
– Great for primary console speed enhancement
– Reliable and durable build
– Easy installation
Cons:
– Limited storage capacity for many modern games
– Might necessitate frequent game deletion/reinstallation
User Impressions:
Reviewers highlight the incredible value of this drive. It’s often chosen by gamers who want to experience the SSD speed boost for their favorite online multiplayer games or a select few single-player titles without needing a massive game library readily accessible.
4. PNY CS900 2TB 3D NAND 2.5″ SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
The PNY CS900 2TB SSD is a fantastic non-Lexar alternative that delivers solid performance and a massive amount of storage for your PS4. If you’ve got a vast game collection and want to ensure you have space for all your favorites, this drive is a strong contender. Its super-fast boot and application load times will make your PS4 feel brand new, proving that you don’t have to stick to one brand for a great 2.5 SSD for PS4.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer and feel the difference with super-fast OS boot times and application loads
– Exceptional performance offering up to 550MB/s sequential read and 530MB/s sequential write speeds
– Superior performance and up to 50% faster boot up time as compared to traditional hard-drives (HDD)
– Ultra-low power consumption
– 3 Year Warranty
– 24/7 US based technical support
Pros:
– Huge 2TB capacity
– Excellent read/write speeds for a SATA SSD
– Low power consumption
– Reputable brand with good support
– Noticeable performance upgrade
Cons:
– Not a Lexar branded drive (if brand loyalty is a factor)
User Impressions:
Many users choose the PNY CS900 for its reliability and excellent performance-to-price ratio. It’s a popular choice for console upgrades, with gamers consistently reporting a significant reduction in load times and overall system snappiness.
5. Addlink S20 2TB PS4 Compatible SATA III 2.5″ Inch Extreme Performance Internal SSD
The Addlink S20 2TB SSD stands out by explicitly marketing itself as “PS4 Compatible,” which offers great peace of mind for console owners. This 2.5-inch drive combines excellent capacity with strong performance, ensuring your PS4 will load games and navigate menus with impressive speed. It’s designed specifically for those looking for a reliable and high-capacity PS4 SSD upgrade.
Key Features:
– 【PS4 Compatible】Ideal For Not Only Sony PS4 But Also PCs, Laptops And Other Portable Computing Devices
– 【Performance】Read/Write Speed 550/500 MB/s. Easy Upgrade For Faster Boosting & Loading
– 【Interface】SATA III 6Gb/s, Backwards Compatibility To SATA I And SATA II / 7mm (0.28 Inch)
– 【Warranty】addlink 3-year Limited Warranty Or TBW Endurance Limit (TBW) Percentage Used
Pros:
– Explicitly stated PS4 compatibility
– High 2TB capacity
– Strong read/write speeds
– Durable and energy-efficient
– Simple installation due to standard form factor
Cons:
– Less known brand compared to Lexar or Samsung
User Impressions:
Customers appreciate the direct “PS4 Compatible” label, which simplifies their purchasing decision. They find the drive easy to install and report substantial improvements in game loading times, often saying their PS4 feels like a new console.
6. SAMSUNG 870 EVO 4TB 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD
If you demand the absolute best in terms of reliability, performance, and capacity for a 2.5-inch SATA SSD, the Samsung 870 EVO 4TB is in a league of its own. While it’s a premium option, it offers an incredible 4TB of storage, meaning you’ll likely never have to delete a game again. Samsung’s reputation for top-tier NAND flash technology ensures indisputable performance and industry-leading reliability, making it an ultimate upgrade even if it’s not a Lexar best 2.5 SSD for PS4.
Key Features:
– THE SSD ALL-STAR: The latest 870 EVO has indisputable performance, reliability and compatibility built upon Samsung’s pioneering technology.
– EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Enjoy professional level SSD performance with 870 EVO, which maximizes the SATA interface limit to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds. Accelerates write speeds and maintains long term high performance with a larger variable buffer.
– INDUSTRY DEFINING RELIABILITY: Meet the demands of every task from everyday computing to 8K video processing, with up to 2,400 TBW endurance.
– MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: 870 EVO has been compatibility tested for major host systems and applications, including chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices.
Pros:
– Unmatched 4TB capacity for a 2.5-inch SSD
– Industry-leading performance and reliability
– Excellent endurance (TBW rating)
– Broad compatibility and extensive testing
– Premium build quality
Cons:
– Significantly more expensive than other options
– PS4’s SATA III interface won’t fully utilize its peak speeds
User Impressions:
This drive consistently receives glowing reviews for its unparalleled capacity and consistent, high-end performance. Users often state it’s worth the investment for the peace of mind of not having to manage storage and knowing they have a top-tier, reliable drive.
7. Lexar 2TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR PS4 USERS: While this is a Lexar SSD and a high-performance drive, the Lexar 2TB Play SSD with Heatsink is a PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe SSD, specifically designed for PS5 consoles and high-end PCs. It is NOT compatible with the internal 2.5-inch SATA III slot of the PS4. The PS4 only supports SATA drives internally. While you could theoretically use it as external storage with a compatible NVMe enclosure, it’s not suitable for an internal PS4 upgrade. This is not a “Lexar best 2.5 SSD for PS4” in the context of internal upgrades.
Key Features:
– Designed to coordinate with your PS5, the Lexar PLAY 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD is made to enhance your gaming experience.
– 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds ensure reduced load times and deliver seamless gameplay. 2TB: 1600TBW.
– Tested and approved storage for your PS5 console, this SSD allows you to play games right off the drive.
– Include a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling during intense gaming sessions.
– Lexar PLAY 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD can be used not only for PS5 but also for PC gaming.
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Extremely fast for PS5 and PC gaming
– Includes a heatsink for optimal thermal performance
– High endurance and generous warranty
– Excellent for reducing load times on compatible systems
Cons:
– NOT COMPATIBLE for internal PS4 upgrade
– Requires specific NVMe slot (found in PS5, not PS4)
– Price point reflects its high-performance NVMe capabilities
User Impressions:
PS5 and PC gamers rave about the incredible speeds and reduced loading times offered by this NVMe drive. They highlight the ease of installation in a PS5 and its effectiveness at keeping the drive cool under heavy load. However, PS4 users looking for an internal upgrade should look elsewhere.
8. MDD 2TB PS4 Hard Drive Upgrade Kit Bundle with Toshiba 2.5inch SATA Gaming HDD
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR SSD SEEKERS: This product is an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), not an SSD (Solid State Drive). While it is a 2.5-inch drive and compatible with the PS4 for storage expansion, it will not provide the speed benefits of an SSD for faster boot times or game loading. This bundle is an excellent option if you prioritize sheer storage capacity at a lower cost than an SSD, but it doesn’t fit the “SSD for PS4” criteria for performance upgrades.
Key Features:
– 2.5inch SATA Gaming HDD, 9.5mm Height
– 2TB Capacity, 5400RPM, 8MB Cache, SATA 6.0Gb/s
– Massive 2TB capacity can store up to 160 × 25GB games.
– Works for PlayStation gaming systems (PS4 Original, PS4 Slim, PS4 Pro)
– PS4 HDD Installation Manual & PS4 Firmware Download Link Instruction Included
Pros:
– Huge 2TB capacity for game storage
– More affordable than an equivalent SSD
– Specifically bundled for PS4 upgrade with instructions
– Compatible with all PS4 models (Original, Slim, Pro)
Cons:
– NOT an SSD; will not offer SSD speed improvements
– Slower read/write speeds than any SSD
– Has moving parts, making it less durable than an SSD
– Louder operation compared to an SSD
User Impressions:
Customers who purchase this bundle are generally looking for maximum storage at an affordable price, rather than performance. They appreciate the included instructions and the ease of getting a lot of space for their games. However, those expecting SSD-like speeds are often disappointed.
9. Lexar NQ100 1.92TB 2.5″ SSD & StarTech.com SATA to USB Cable
This bundle offers a fantastic deal for PS4 owners: a high-capacity Lexar NQ100 2.5-inch SSD combined with a StarTech.com SATA to USB adapter. The NQ100 itself is a solid choice for an internal PS4 upgrade, providing fast boot times and quicker game loads. The included SATA to USB cable is a huge bonus, making it incredibly easy to clone your existing PS4 drive or use your old HDD as external storage after the upgrade. It’s a highly practical Lexar best 2.5 SSD for PS4 bundle.
Key Features:
– Product 1 (Lexar NQ100): Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, application loads, and data transfers with read speeds of up to 550MB/s
– Product 1 (Lexar NQ100): Sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s
– Product 1 (Lexar NQ100): Experience better performance and reliability than with a traditional hard drive
– Product 1 (Lexar NQ100): Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– Product 2 (StarTech.com Adapter): QUICKLY ACCESS A SATA SSD OR HDD: Connect to a 2.5in SATA SSD (solid state drive) or HDD (hard disk drive) to add storage, perform backups, create disk images, recover data, and transfer content to your laptop
– Product 2 (StarTech.com Adapter): FAST TRANSFER SPEEDS: The SATA to USB adapter supports USB 3.0 data transfer speeds of 5Gbps over USB-A, plus UASP support for even faster transfers
– Product 2 (StarTech.com Adapter): CONNECT FROM ANYWHERE: Portable solution with no external power required
– Product 2 (StarTech.com Adapter): SAVE TIME: Conveniently swap between drives with no need to install the drive inside an enclosure
Pros:
– High-capacity (nearly 2TB) Lexar SSD for strong performance
– Included SATA to USB adapter is incredibly useful for migration/external storage
– Excellent value for a complete upgrade solution
– Reliable and durable SSD design
– Noticeable speed improvements for PS4
Cons:
– Installation will still require re-installing PS4 firmware
– The NQ100 is not as well-known as the NS100 series (though performance is similar)
User Impressions:
This bundle is highly praised for its convenience. Users love the included adapter, which simplifies the upgrade process. The SSD itself performs as expected, delivering faster load times and overall smoother PS4 operation. It’s a popular choice for first-time upgraders.
10. Crucial BX500 4TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
The Crucial BX500 4TB SSD is another excellent, high-capacity alternative for your PS4, rivaling the Samsung 870 EVO in terms of space but often at a more competitive price point. Built with Micron 3D NAND technology, this 2.5-inch drive offers robust performance that significantly outperforms traditional hard drives. If you want maximum storage and a solid speed boost without necessarily needing a Lexar best 2.5 SSD for PS4, this is a formidable choice.
Key Features:
– 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
– Micron 3D NAND – advancing the world’s memory and storage technology for 40 years
– Crucial 3-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Enormous 4TB storage capacity
– Significant speed upgrade over HDD
– Energy-efficient design
– Reputable brand (Crucial/Micron)
– Reliable performance for PS4 gaming
Cons:
– PS4’s SATA interface limits peak SSD speeds
– Not as premium as the Samsung 870 EVO, but still excellent
User Impressions:
Customers frequently choose the Crucial BX500 for its impressive capacity and solid performance at a great price. It’s often cited as an easy and effective upgrade that dramatically improves the PS4’s responsiveness and reduces game loading times.
FAQ: Upgrading Your PS4 with an SSD
Q1: What kind of SSD does the PS4 use?
A1: The PS4 uses a 2.5-inch SATA III (6Gb/s) internal SSD. While the PS4’s internal interface actually operates closer to SATA II speeds, any modern SATA III SSD will work perfectly and provide a significant performance boost over the original hard drive.
Q2: Is it difficult to install an SSD in a PS4?
A2: Not at all! Sony designed the PS4 to make storage upgrades relatively straightforward. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, a USB drive to install the PS4 system software, and about 15-30 minutes of your time. There are plenty of online tutorials and YouTube videos that walk you through the process step-by-step.
Q3: Will an SSD make my PS4 run faster in terms of frames per second (FPS)?
A3: No, an SSD primarily improves loading times, boot times, and overall system responsiveness. It does not directly impact the frame rate of games, as that’s tied to the PS4’s CPU and GPU. However, some games with heavy texture streaming might feel smoother and experience less texture pop-in due to faster data access.
Q4: How much storage do I need for my PS4 SSD?
A4: This depends on your gaming habits.
* 256GB-512GB: Good if you play only a few games at a time or primarily use external storage for most titles. Offers a great speed boost on a budget.
* 1TB: A popular sweet spot, providing ample space for many modern games without breaking the bank.
* 2TB-4TB: Ideal for extensive game libraries, allowing you to install dozens of games without worrying about running out of space.
Q5: Can I use an external SSD with my PS4?
A5: Yes, the PS4 (with system software 4.50 or later) supports external USB 3.0 storage. While an external SSD can offer faster game loading compared to an external HDD, for the absolute best performance for frequently played games, an internal SSD is generally preferred. You can use an external SSD to store less-played games or your entire library, while keeping your most-played titles on the internal SSD.
Q6: Do I need to buy a specific “gaming” SSD for my PS4?
A6: No, any standard 2.5-inch SATA III SSD will work perfectly with your PS4. “Gaming” SSDs usually refer to NVMe drives for PCs or PS5s, which are generally not compatible with the PS4’s internal slot. Focus on reputable brands, good capacity, and a solid warranty.
Q7: What’s the difference between TBW and a warranty?
A7: TBW (Terabytes Written) is an endurance rating for SSDs, indicating how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its reliability might diminish. A higher TBW means the drive is rated for more writing activity. The warranty covers manufacturing defects for a set period. Both are important indicators of an SSD’s quality and longevity. For typical PS4 use, even lower TBW ratings are usually more than sufficient.
Final Thoughts on Your PS4 SSD Upgrade
Upgrading your PS4 with a new 2.5-inch SATA SSD is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your console. It’s a relatively simple, cost-effective way to drastically cut down on loading screens and boost overall system responsiveness. Whether you opt for a reliable Lexar best 2.5 SSD for PS4 like the NS100 series or a powerhouse alternative like the Samsung 870 EVO, you’re in for a much snappier gaming experience.
Remember to consider your budget, desired capacity, and the specific needs of your game library when making your choice. No matter which you pick from our list, you’re setting yourself up for faster, more enjoyable PS4 gaming. Happy upgrading!