Tired of staring at loading screens instead of slaying dragons or racking up headshots? If slow load times and limited storage are cramping your PC gaming style, it might be time to invest in a high-quality external SSD. While internal SSDs are fantastic, an external solid-state drive offers incredible portability, easy game library expansion, and speeds that blow traditional hard drives out of the water. And when it comes to reliable performance, Crucial is a brand that consistently delivers.
In this article, we’re diving deep into some of the Crucial best external SSD for PC gaming options available right now. We’ll explore five top contenders from Crucial’s X9 and X10 portable SSD lines, highlighting what makes each one a game-changer for your setup. Get ready to kiss those long waits goodbye and jump straight into the action!
Why Choose a Crucial External SSD for Gaming?
Before we get to the reviews, let’s quickly chat about why an external SSD, especially one from Crucial, is a smart move for gamers. Unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), SSDs have no moving parts, meaning they’re not only much faster but also more durable. This translates to quicker game launches, snappier level loads, and smoother overall gameplay.
Crucial, a brand synonymous with memory and storage, brings a lot to the table:
* Blazing Speeds: Their SSDs offer incredible data transfer rates, perfect for modern, large game files.
* Robust Durability: Built to withstand drops and environmental challenges, ideal for gamers on the go.
* Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with PCs, Macs, consoles (PS4, PS5, Xbox), and more.
* Variety of Capacities: From 1TB for essential games to a massive 8TB for your entire library.
So, if you’re serious about your gaming experience, upgrading to a Crucial best external SSD for PC gaming is a no-brainer. Let’s check out the top picks!
The Top 5 Crucial Best External SSDs for PC Gaming
Here are our handpicked Crucial external SSDs that are perfect for expanding your game library and boosting performance.
1. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD hits a sweet spot for many gamers, offering a fantastic balance of speed, generous storage, and rugged durability. It’s designed for those who want a significant upgrade over a traditional HDD without breaking the bank, providing snappy load times for your favorite titles and plenty of space for a growing game collection. Its compact design means you can easily slip it into your bag and take your games anywhere.
Key Features:
– High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for rapid file transfers and game loading.
– Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
– Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
– High-Capacity Storage: A solid 2TB for games, media, and backups.
– Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
– Excellent value for money for its speed and capacity.
– Very durable and portable design.
– Wide range of device compatibility.
– Noticeably faster than external hard drives.
Cons:
– Speeds are good but not the absolute fastest Crucial offers (see X10 series).
– USB 3.2 Gen2 interface might be a bottleneck for some ultra-high-speed scenarios.
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise the X9 2TB for its straightforward plug-and-play functionality and impressive speed gains over older storage. Many gamers specifically mention how much faster their games load on this drive, appreciating its sturdy build quality for daily use and travel. It’s often highlighted as a reliable workhorse for expanding console and PC game libraries.
2. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD
If you’re looking for a reliable, fast external drive to hold a core selection of your go-to PC games without needing massive storage, the Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent choice. It offers the same dependable performance and robust build quality as its 2TB sibling but in a more compact and often more affordable package. It’s perfect for casual gamers or those who simply need to offload a few massive titles from their internal drive.
Key Features:
– High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for accelerating game loading and file transfers.
– 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: 1TB for your essential games, photos, and videos.
– Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
– Cost-effective entry into external SSD gaming.
– Highly portable and durable for gaming on the go.
– Significantly improves game load times compared to HDDs.
– Excellent compatibility across various devices.
Cons:
– 1TB might feel limiting for gamers with very large libraries.
– Not the fastest speed tier (though still very fast for most).
User Impressions:
Customers love the X9 1TB for its small footprint and immediate performance boost. It’s often recommended for students or those who travel frequently and want to carry their games without bulk. Users report quick setup and consistent high speeds, making it a popular choice for extending console storage or running PC games directly.
3. Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD
Now we’re stepping up the speed! The Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD is engineered for creators, students, and, yes, serious PC gamers who demand ultra-fast data access. With read speeds soaring up to 2,100MB/s, this drive cuts down load times dramatically, making large, graphically intense games feel incredibly responsive. Combine that with a massive 4TB capacity and enhanced durability, and you’ve got a powerhouse for your gaming setup. This is definitely one of the Crucial best external SSD for PC gaming when performance is key.
Key Features:
– Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for lightning-fast game loading.
– Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop-resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
– Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
– Ultimate Storage Capacity: A colossal 4TB for a sprawling game library.
– Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
– Exceptional speed, nearly doubling the X9 series.
– Superior durability with IP65 rating and greater drop resistance.
– Large capacity suitable for vast game collections and media.
– Ideal for competitive gamers and content creators.
Cons:
– Higher price point due to enhanced performance and capacity.
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port on your PC to achieve maximum speeds.
User Impressions:
Gamers are blown away by the speed of the X10 Pro. Many mention a noticeable difference in load screens, especially with modern AAA titles. The added ruggedness is a big plus for those who transport their drives, and the ample 4TB storage means they rarely have to delete games. It’s often described as a premium drive that delivers on its promises.
4. Crucial X10 Pro 8TB Portable SSD
For the ultimate gaming library and performance without compromise, the Crucial X10 Pro 8TB Portable SSD is your champion. This beast combines the X10 Pro’s incredible 2,100MB/s read speeds with a mind-boggling 8TB of storage. Imagine having virtually every game you own, plus all your media and backups, on one incredibly fast and durable external drive. It’s the pinnacle for hardcore PC gamers and digital hoarders alike, offering unparalleled space and speed. This is truly the Crucial best external SSD for PC gaming if you have an extensive game library.
Key Features:
– Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for instantaneous data access.
– Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop-resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
– Broad Compatibility: Seamlessly connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
– Ultimate Storage Capacity: An enormous 8TB to store everything and then some.
– Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
– Massive 8TB capacity virtually eliminates storage concerns.
– Top-tier speeds for the fastest possible game loading and file transfers.
– Extremely robust and durable build for peace of mind.
– Future-proof storage solution for years of gaming.
Cons:
– Premium price, making it a significant investment.
– Max speeds require a compatible USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port.
User Impressions:
Reviewers consistently highlight the sheer capacity combined with lightning-fast speeds as the standout features. Gamers with huge Steam libraries or multiple consoles find this drive invaluable. The durability is also a frequently praised aspect, giving users confidence in its longevity. It’s considered the go-to for professionals and enthusiasts who can’t compromise on space or speed.
5. Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD
Rounding out our list is the Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD, an excellent option for gamers who need substantial storage but don’t necessarily require the extreme speeds of the X10 Pro series. This drive perfectly bridges the gap, offering a generous 4TB capacity – enough for many large AAA titles – along with the reliable 1050MB/s performance of the X9 line. It’s incredibly durable and broadly compatible, making it a versatile choice for expanding your gaming horizons.
Key Features:
– High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s, accelerating game launches and file operations.
– 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: A very spacious 4TB for a sizable game collection and other files.
– Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
Pros:
– Great balance of large capacity and solid performance.
– More affordable than the X10 Pro 4TB, offering better value for some.
– Excellent durability and portability for everyday use.
– Simple setup and reliable operation across many devices.
Cons:
– Not as fast as the X10 Pro series, which might matter for the most demanding users.
– Still a significant investment, though less than its faster 4TB counterpart.
User Impressions:
Customers appreciate the X9 4TB for providing ample storage without the premium price tag of the X10. Gamers find it perfect for storing numerous titles, including current-gen console games, and report a substantial improvement in load times over traditional hard drives. Its ruggedness also makes it a popular choice for taking games on the go.
FAQ Section
Got more questions about Crucial external SSDs for PC gaming? We’ve got answers!
Q1: What’s the main difference between the Crucial X9 and X10 Pro portable SSDs?
A: The primary difference lies in speed and durability. The Crucial X9 series offers speeds up to 1050MB/s and IP55 dust/water resistance. The X10 Pro series, on the other hand, boasts ultra-fast speeds up to 2100MB/s (requiring a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port) and enhanced IP65 dust/water resistance, making it faster and more rugged. The X10 Pro is generally aimed at users needing peak performance, like professional creators and serious gamers.
Q2: Can I really play PC games directly from an external SSD?
A: Absolutely! That’s one of the biggest advantages of these portable SSDs. You can install games directly onto them and launch them without needing to transfer them to your internal drive first. This is especially useful if your internal drive is full or if you want to keep your game library portable.
Q3: How much storage capacity do I actually need for PC gaming?
A: It really depends on your gaming habits.
* 1TB: Good for a small, rotating library of 5-10 modern AAA games, or many indie titles.
* 2TB: A comfortable sweet spot for most gamers, allowing for a substantial collection of AAA games.
* 4TB: Ideal for gamers with a large and growing library, or if you also store a lot of media.
* 8TB: For the ultimate collector who wants almost every game installed and ready to play, along with backups and other large files.
Remember, modern games can easily be 100GB+ each, so bigger is often better in the long run!
Q4: Are these Crucial external SSDs compatible with gaming consoles like PS5 or Xbox Series X/S?
A: Yes, all the Crucial X9 and X10 Pro models are broadly compatible with PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. For PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, you can store next-gen games on the external SSD and transfer them to the internal SSD when you want to play. You can also play backward-compatible (PS4/Xbox One) games directly from the external drive.
Q5: What is USB 3.2 and why is it important for an external SSD?
A: USB 3.2 is a version of the Universal Serial Bus standard that defines data transfer speeds.
* USB 3.2 Gen 2 (aka USB 3.1 Gen 2 / USB 3.0): Offers speeds up to 10Gbps (around 1250MB/s). The Crucial X9 series uses this and maxes out at 1050MB/s.
* USB 3.2 Gen 2×2: Offers speeds up to 20Gbps (around 2500MB/s). The Crucial X10 Pro series can utilize this to achieve its 2100MB/s speeds.
The higher the USB version and ‘Gen’ number, the faster the potential data transfer, which directly impacts game load times and file copying. To get the maximum speed, your PC’s USB port needs to support the corresponding Gen version.
Q6: Will using an external SSD improve my in-game frame rates (FPS)?
A: An external SSD primarily affects loading times (e.g., loading the game, new levels, textures) and overall system responsiveness. It typically won’t directly increase your in-game frame rates (FPS), as FPS is more dependent on your CPU, GPU, and RAM. However, by reducing stutter and speeding up asset streaming, it can contribute to a smoother feeling gaming experience.
Q7: Are Crucial external SSDs durable enough for travel?
A: Absolutely! Crucial portable SSDs are specifically designed with durability in mind. The X9 series has IP55 dust and water resistance and 7.5 ft drop resistance, while the X10 Pro series steps up to IP65 and 9.8 ft drop resistance. This makes them very resilient to the bumps, splashes, and everyday hazards that come with traveling or moving your gaming setup around.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external storage is a game-changer for any PC gamer, and Crucial delivers some of the Crucial best external SSD for PC gaming options on the market. Whether you’re a casual player needing reliable storage like the Crucial X9 1TB or 2TB, or a hardcore enthusiast chasing every millisecond with the ultra-fast Crucial X10 Pro 4TB or 8TB, there’s a Crucial drive that fits your needs.
No more waiting around – it’s time to supercharge your gaming experience with faster load times, vast storage, and robust durability. Pick your Crucial champion and get back to what you love: gaming!