Is your PS4 groaning under the weight of too many games? Are those loading screens taking ages, pulling you out of the immersive worlds you love? If you’re nodding along, it’s probably time for a serious upgrade to your console’s storage. An external SSD (Solid State Drive) is a total game-changer, offering lightning-fast speeds and plenty of room for your ever-growing game library. And when it comes to performance and reliability, Sabrent is a name that often pops up in conversations about the Sabrent best external SSD for PS4.
In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into the world of external SSDs, showcasing some of the top picks from Sabrent and other fantastic brands that can supercharge your PS4 gaming experience. We’ll help you understand why these drives are worth your attention and find the perfect one to give your console the boost it deserves.
Why an External SSD is a Must-Have for Your PS4
If you’re still relying solely on your PS4’s internal hard drive, you’re missing out. Here’s why an external SSD is a smart move for any PlayStation 4 owner:
- Blazing Fast Loading Times: This is the big one! SSDs don’t have moving parts like traditional HDDs, which means games load significantly faster. Say goodbye to those agonizing waits and hello to more playtime.
- More Storage for Your Games: Modern games are huge! An external drive gives you ample space to download more titles without constantly deleting old favorites. It’s a fantastic PS4 storage upgrade.
- Improved Overall Performance: While an external SSD won’t boost your game’s frame rate, it can make other console operations feel snappier, like navigating menus and installing updates.
- Portability & Convenience: Many external SSDs are compact and lightweight, making them easy to move between consoles or even take your game library to a friend’s house.
- Easy Setup: PS4 consoles are designed to work seamlessly with external USB 3.0 drives, making setup a breeze. Just plug it in, format it, and you’re good to go!
How to Choose the Best External SSD for PS4
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s quickly cover what to look for:
- Capacity: How much space do you need? 1TB or 2TB are popular choices, but 500GB can be a good starting point, and 4TB is excellent for huge game libraries.
- Speed: Ensure it’s a USB 3.0 (or newer) compatible drive. PS4 only supports up to USB 3.0, so while drives with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 or Thunderbolt offer higher theoretical speeds, they’ll be capped by the PS4’s port. However, better drives often have better internal components, which can still lead to smoother performance within the PS4’s limits.
- Durability: Portable drives can take a knock. Look for robust designs or protective features if you plan to move it around often.
- Compatibility: While most external SSDs work, always double-check. Our listed products are all compatible with PS4.
Our Top 10 Picks for the Best External SSD for PS4 (Including Sabrent & Alternatives)
Here’s our breakdown of the best external SSDs that’ll make your PS4 sing, featuring top contenders from Sabrent and some strong alternatives.
BUFFALO External SSD 1TB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5
Looking for a reliable and compact external SSD that offers great value for your money? This 1TB Buffalo external SSD is an excellent choice for PS4 gamers who need extra space and faster loading without breaking the bank. It’s built for portability and durability, making it perfect for both at-home use and taking your games on the go. Its compatibility extends beyond PS4 to PS5, Macs, and PCs, giving you versatile storage options.
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Key Features:
- Best value SSD for on-the-go demand.
- Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs.
- Faster speed than traditional HDDs.
- Compact, durable, and reliable with shock-resistant design.
- USB 3.2 connectivity (backward compatible with USB 3.0 for PS4).
- 3-year warranty for registered devices.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for its capacity and performance.
- Robust, shock-resistant design for peace of mind.
- Highly versatile across multiple platforms.
- Impressive warranty period.
- Significantly reduces game loading times on PS4.
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Cons:
- Not as blazing fast as some premium Sabrent NVMe SSDs (though still much faster than HDD).
- Generic design might not appeal to everyone.
User Impressions: Gamers frequently praise this Buffalo SSD for its straightforward setup and noticeable improvement in PS4 game loading times. Many appreciate its rugged build and the peace of mind that comes with the warranty, making it a solid, dependable choice.
BUFFALO External SSD 2TB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5
If 1TB just isn’t enough, the 2TB version of Buffalo’s external SSD offers all the same great benefits with double the storage capacity. It’s an ideal solution for serious PS4 gamers with a massive collection of digital titles, ensuring you’ll rarely have to choose between keeping or deleting a game. Like its smaller sibling, it combines performance, durability, and broad compatibility in a compact form factor.
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Key Features:
- Best value SSD with generous 2TB capacity.
- Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs.
- Accelerated speeds compared to HDDs for quicker data access.
- Compact, durable, and reliable with drop protection.
- USB 3.2 connectivity (backward compatible for PS4).
- 3-year warranty for registered devices.
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Pros:
- Huge 2TB storage capacity for extensive game libraries.
- Rugged and portable design.
- Seamless cross-platform compatibility.
- Reliable performance boost for PS4.
- Strong warranty support.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to increased capacity.
- Performance, while great, won’t match high-end NVMe drives (though still excellent for PS4’s USB 3.0).
User Impressions: Users love the sheer amount of space this 2TB Buffalo SSD provides, eliminating storage concerns for years. The consistent fast performance and robust build quality are frequently highlighted as key advantages, making it a popular choice for value-conscious gamers.
SABRENT 2.5 Inch SATA to USB 3.0 Tool Free External Enclosure
This isn’t an SSD itself, but rather a brilliant tool-free enclosure from Sabrent that lets you turn any standard 2.5-inch SATA SSD (or HDD) into an external drive for your PS4. If you have an old SSD lying around or want to customize your external storage with a specific drive, this enclosure is a fantastic and cost-effective way to get the Sabrent best external SSD for PS4 experience on a budget. It’s incredibly easy to use, just plug and play!
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Key Features:
- Tool-free design for effortless installation.
- Transfer rates up to 5 Gbps when connected to USB 3.0.
- Suitable for 2.5” SATA/SSD (7mm/9.5mm thickness).
- Optimized for SSDs, supports UASP SATA III.
- Hot-swappable, plug and play, no drivers needed.
- Backward-compatible with USB 2.0 or 1.1.
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Pros:
- Extremely easy to set up with a tool-free design.
- Cost-effective if you already own a 2.5″ SSD.
- Optimized for SSD performance with UASP support.
- Broad operating system compatibility (Windows, Mac OS X).
- Allows for drive customization.
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Cons:
- Requires you to purchase a separate 2.5″ SATA SSD.
- The enclosure itself doesn’t offer any protective features beyond basic casing.
User Impressions: Customers rave about the simplicity and effectiveness of this enclosure. They appreciate being able to repurpose old drives or select specific SSDs to create a custom external storage solution for their PS4, noting the solid transfer speeds.
SABRENT 2TB External Aluminum SSD, Rocket Nano V2, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
When you’re looking for serious speed and rugged portability, the Sabrent Rocket Nano V2 is a top-tier contender. This 2TB powerhouse is designed for creators and gamers alike, offering burst transfer speeds over 1500 MB/s. While your PS4 will cap this performance at its USB 3.0 limits, the high-quality internal components ensure incredibly stable and efficient data transfer, making it a fantastic Sabrent best external SSD for PS4 option for those who demand premium quality and don’t mind the headroom for future-proofing.
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Key Features:
- Burst transfers over 1500 MB/s (via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, capped by PS4’s USB 3.0).
- Constructed of aluminum with an external silicone sleeve for ruggedness.
- Available in up to 4TB (this model is 2TB) with high-endurance flash.
- Includes both Type-C to Type-A and Type-C to Type-C cables for broad compatibility.
- Cutting-edge internal hardware for long-term reliability.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed and sustained performance, even when capped by PS4’s USB 3.0.
- Incredibly durable and protected design.
- Compact and lightweight, ideal for portability.
- Comes with all necessary cables for versatile connectivity.
- Premium build quality and components.
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Cons:
- The full speed potential isn’t utilized by the PS4 (though it’s still very fast for the console).
- Premium price point.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the Nano V2’s robust build and its ability to handle demanding tasks with ease. Gamers highlight the noticeable speed increase in loading times and appreciate the peace of mind from its durable design, even if the PS4 can’t fully exploit its full speed.
SABRENT Rocket XTRM 5 4TB Thunderbolt 5 Portable SSD, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
For the ultimate in future-proof external storage, the Sabrent Rocket XTRM 5 with 4TB capacity is an absolute beast. While its Thunderbolt 5 performance is far beyond what a PS4 can utilize, its broad backward compatibility with USB4, Thunderbolt 3/4, and crucial for PS4 users, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (and slower USB fallbacks), makes it a versatile powerhouse. This 4TB drive ensures you’ll never run out of space for your PS4 games, and its rugged construction means it can withstand the rigors of travel or a bustling gaming setup.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-Fast Thunderbolt 5 Performance (up to 64Gbps, not utilized by PS4).
- Broad backward compatibility with Thunderbolt 3/4 and USB4, including USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 fallback for PS4 (up to 20Gbps, capped by PS4’s USB 3.0).
- Rugged aluminum body with a silicone sleeve for durability and heat dissipation.
- Bus-powered (no external power needed) with a premium Thunderbolt cable included.
- Reliable, future-proof storage solution for various demanding workflows.
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB capacity for an enormous game library.
- Exceptional durability and heat management.
- Excellent fallback USB compatibility for PS4, ensuring fast performance.
- No external power required, highly portable.
- Truly future-proof for next-gen consoles or PCs.
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Cons:
- The Thunderbolt 5 speed is overkill and unused by the PS4.
- Very high premium price point.
User Impressions: Professional users and hardcore gamers alike praise the XTRM 5 for its incredible performance and storage capacity. PS4 users appreciate the solid USB fallback speeds and the robust build quality, seeing it as an investment that will serve them well for years across multiple devices.
SABRENT Rocket XTRM 5 2TB Thunderbolt 5 Portable SSD, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
If the 4TB capacity of the XTRM 5 is more than you need, the 2TB version offers the same cutting-edge performance and robust build in a slightly more manageable package. This 2TB Sabrent Rocket XTRM 5 portable SSD still provides ample storage for a substantial PS4 game library, along with the incredible speeds (within PS4’s USB 3.0 limits) and future-proof design that the XTRM 5 series is known for. It’s an ideal choice if you want top-tier Sabrent quality without the ultimate investment of the 4TB model.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-Fast Thunderbolt 5 Performance (up to 64Gbps, not utilized by PS4).
- Broad backward compatibility including USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 fallback for PS4.
- Rugged aluminum body with a silicone sleeve for durability and efficient cooling.
- Bus-powered for easy plug-and-play use, includes a premium Thunderbolt cable.
- Reliable and versatile high-speed storage solution.
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Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity for most game libraries.
- Exceptional build quality and protection from drops and heat.
- Guaranteed fast performance on PS4 through USB fallback.
- Highly portable with no external power needed.
- Excellent long-term investment due to future compatibility.
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Cons:
- Thunderbolt 5 capabilities are significantly underutilized by PS4.
- Still a premium price for a PS4-specific use case.
User Impressions: Customers love the XTRM 5’s blend of speed and durability. For PS4 use, the reliable USB performance and the peace of mind provided by the rugged design are big selling points, making it a favorite for those seeking high-end external storage.
BUFFALO External SSD 500GB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5
For gamers on a tighter budget or those who just need a bit of extra space for a few favorite titles, this 500GB Buffalo external SSD is an excellent entry-level option. It delivers the core benefits of SSD performance – faster loading and smoother gameplay – at an accessible price point. It retains the same compact, durable design and broad compatibility with PS4, PS5, Macs, and PCs, making it a versatile and dependable little workhorse.
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Key Features:
- Best value SSD in a smaller 500GB capacity.
- Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs.
- Faster speed than traditional HDDs.
- Compact, durable, and reliable with shock-resistant build.
- USB 3.2 connectivity (backward compatible with USB 3.0 for PS4).
- 3-year warranty for registered devices.
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Pros:
- Most affordable external SSD option among Buffalo models.
- Noticeable speed improvement over PS4’s internal HDD.
- Robust and portable design.
- Wide compatibility across multiple devices.
- Backed by a solid 3-year warranty.
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Cons:
- 500GB might quickly fill up with modern game sizes.
- Performance is good but not as high as NVMe-based drives.
User Impressions: This 500GB Buffalo SSD is frequently praised as a fantastic starter SSD for PS4, offering a significant performance bump without a huge investment. Users appreciate its reliability and compact size, making it a great pick for those who manage their game library actively.
SABRENT 1TB Rocket Nano V2 External SSD – USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
The 1TB Sabrent Rocket Nano V2 is another stellar option if you’re looking for the Sabrent best external SSD for PS4 that balances capacity, speed, and premium build quality. This drive gives you a comfortable amount of storage for a good selection of games while offering the same unrivaled speed performance (capped by PS4’s USB 3.0) and rugged design as its 2TB sibling. It’s truly ready for anything, from quick backups to enhancing your console gaming.
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Key Features:
- Unrivaled Speed Performance (over 1500 MB/s, capped by PS4’s USB 3.0).
- Rugged yet refined anodized aluminum housing with shock-absorbing silicone sleeve.
- 1TB capacity, perfect for a sizable game library.
- Compact, travel-friendly design that fits in your pocket.
- Dual-cable convenience (USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A included).
- Engineered for longevity with high-endurance NAND flash.
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Pros:
- Exceptional durability and heat management.
- Noticeable speed improvement for PS4 game loading.
- Excellent portability with a compact form factor.
- Comprehensive cable package for immediate use.
- Reliable and built to last.
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Cons:
- Full speed potential not realized on PS4.
- Still a premium price for the 1TB capacity.
User Impressions: Users love the Nano V2’s robust feel and its consistent fast performance. The included dual cables are a big plus for compatibility, and gamers specifically mention how much faster their PS4 games load, making it a strong contender for a premium external drive.
SABRENT Rocket XTRM Plus 2TB Thunderbolt 3 Portable SSD – USB 3.2 Gen 2×1
The Sabrent Rocket XTRM Plus 2TB represents an enhanced Thunderbolt 3 portable SSD that also offers fantastic USB fallback performance for your PS4. While its primary Thunderbolt 3 speeds reach up to 2,700 MB/s, its crucial 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 fallback mode (which is still excellent for PS4’s USB 3.0 port) ensures your games load incredibly fast. This 2TB drive combines sleek design, durability, and high-speed flexibility, making it a truly versatile choice for gamers and professionals alike.
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Key Features:
- Enhanced Thunderbolt 3 performance (up to 2,700 MB/s, not utilized by PS4).
- Flexible high-speed fallback performance of up to 900 MB/s in USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 mode (capped by PS4’s USB 3.0).
- Built with an aluminum outer shell and removable silicone sleeve for durability and heat dissipation.
- Complete package includes a premium Thunderbolt 3 cable and a USB-A to USB-C cable.
- Universal compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
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Pros:
- Excellent 2TB capacity for extensive game collections.
- Superb build quality with aluminum and silicone for ruggedness.
- Strong USB fallback performance for PS4, significantly reducing loading times.
- Plug-and-play and bus-powered convenience.
- Versatile connectivity with included cables.
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Cons:
- Thunderbolt 3 speeds are not utilized by the PS4.
- Premium pricing for a drive with features beyond PS4’s capabilities.
User Impressions: Customers often highlight the XTRM Plus’s sturdy construction and the seamless high-speed performance it delivers across various devices. PS4 users appreciate the tangible difference in game loading times and the feeling of having a premium, long-lasting external storage solution.
SABRENT 2.5 Inch SATA to USB 3.0 Tool Free Clear External Enclosure
If you’re into DIY or simply love seeing your tech, this clear, tool-free Sabrent 2.5-inch SATA to USB 3.0 enclosure is a fantastic option for creating your own external SSD for PS4. Like its non-clear counterpart, it allows you to easily install any standard 2.5-inch SATA SSD (or HDD) and turn it into a high-speed external drive. The clear design adds a unique aesthetic touch, letting you admire the tech inside while giving your PS4 a major speed boost.
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Key Features:
- Plug & Play, Hot-Swappable, and tool-free design for easy installation.
- Hi-Speed USB 3.0 to SATA interface for fast data transfer.
- Compatible with 2.5” SATA hard drives (7mm/9.5mm thickness).
- Optimized for SSDs, supporting UASP SATA III.
- No driver needed, ready to use right out of the box.
- Comes with a free download of Acronis True Image for SABRENT software.
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Pros:
- Unique clear design lets you see your drive.
- Incredibly simple to assemble and use.
- Optimized for SSD performance with UASP.
- Cost-effective way to utilize an existing 2.5″ SSD.
- Includes useful cloning software.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate 2.5″ SATA SSD to function as an external drive.
- The clear plastic might feel less robust than metal enclosures for some.
User Impressions: Users love the novelty of the clear design and the sheer ease of installing a drive into this Sabrent enclosure. They find it performs reliably for external PS4 storage, and the included cloning software is a useful bonus for many.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How do I set up an external SSD with my PS4?
A1: It’s super simple! First, plug the external SSD into one of your PS4’s USB 3.0 ports. Go to “Settings” > “Devices” > “USB Storage Devices” on your PS4. Select your SSD, then choose “Format as Extended Storage.” Follow the on-screen prompts, and your PS4 will format the drive, making it ready to store games and apps.
Q2: Will an external SSD make my PS4 games run faster?
A2: Yes, absolutely! While an external SSD won’t improve your game’s frame rate, it will drastically reduce loading times for games and initial game installation. This means less waiting and more playing, making your overall gaming experience feel much snappier.
Q3: Can I play PS5 games from an external SSD connected to my PS4?
A3: No, PS4 only runs PS4 games. While PS5 consoles can store PS5 games on an external USB SSD and run PS4 games from it, a PS4 console cannot play PS5 games, regardless of where they are stored.
Q4: What’s the difference between an HDD and an SSD for external storage?
A4: HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) use spinning platters and read/write heads to access data, making them slower but generally cheaper per gigabyte. SSDs (Solid State Drives) use flash memory, like a giant USB stick, with no moving parts. This makes them significantly faster, more durable, and quieter, but typically more expensive. For gaming, SSDs are superior due to speed.
Q5: Can I move my existing PS4 games from the internal drive to an external SSD?
A5: Yes, you can! Once your external SSD is set up as extended storage, go to “Settings” > “Storage” > “System Storage” > “Applications.” Select the games you want to move, press the “Options” button, and choose “Move to Extended Storage.”
Q6: Do I need a specific brand of external SSD for my PS4?
A6: Not necessarily. As long as the external SSD meets the PS4’s requirements (USB 3.0 compatible and sufficient capacity), it should work. However, brands like Sabrent are known for their high-quality components and reliable performance, which can offer better sustained speeds and durability.
Q7: Is it safe to unplug the external SSD while my PS4 is on?
A7: No, it’s not. Always ensure your PS4 is turned off or in Rest Mode before disconnecting any external storage device to prevent data corruption. If you need to disconnect it while the console is on, go to “Settings” > “Devices” > “USB Storage Devices,” select the drive, and choose “Stop Using This Extended Storage” before unplugging.
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Sabrent Best External SSD for PS4
Upgrading your PS4 with an external SSD is one of the best enhancements you can make for a smoother, faster, and more enjoyable gaming experience. While the market is full of choices, Sabrent truly stands out with its commitment to high-performance and durable storage solutions. Whether you opt for a blazing-fast Rocket Nano V2 or a versatile Rocket XTRM Plus, you’re investing in quality.
Even if a dedicated Sabrent best external SSD for PS4 isn’t your final pick, the Buffalo alternatives offer fantastic value and reliable performance. Ultimately, the best external SSD for you comes down to your budget, desired capacity, and how much you prioritize cutting-edge speed versus raw value. Whichever you choose, get ready to spend less time waiting and more time conquering virtual worlds!