Is your PS4 Pro feeling a bit sluggish? Longer load times, texture pop-ins, and just a general lack of zip can really pull you out of the immersive gaming experience. If you’re looking to give your beloved console a serious shot in the arm, upgrading its storage to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the best moves you can make. And when it comes to high-performance storage, Sabrent has consistently delivered some incredible options. But what’s the Sabrent best 1TB SSD for PS4 Pro, and what other fantastic contenders should you consider?
In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into the world of 1TB SSDs that can elevate your PS4 Pro’s performance. We’ll explore top-tier internal and external options, including some of Sabrent’s finest, alongside other leading brands that offer exceptional speed and reliability. Get ready to kiss those agonizing load screens goodbye!
Why Upgrade Your PS4 Pro with an SSD?
Let’s face it, the PlayStation 4 Pro is an amazing console, but its stock hard drive (HDD) is often a bottleneck. HDDs are mechanical and simply can’t keep up with the demands of modern games. An SSD, on the other hand, uses flash memory to store data, resulting in significantly faster read and write speeds. This translates directly to:
- Faster Game Loading: Get into your favorite titles quicker.
- Smoother Gameplay: Reduced pop-in and better texture streaming in open-world games.
- Quicker Boot Times: Your PS4 Pro will power on and get to the home screen in a flash.
- Improved Menu Navigation: The PS4 Pro’s interface will feel snappier and more responsive.
While the PS4 Pro can’t fully utilize the extreme speeds of PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 SSDs due to its SATA III interface limitations (for internal drives), even a high-quality Gen3 NVMe SSD paired with an adapter, or a standard SATA SSD, will offer a monumental upgrade over the stock HDD. External USB 3.0 SSDs also offer a significant boost for game storage.
How to Choose the Right 1TB SSD for Your PS4 Pro
When looking for the Sabrent best 1TB SSD for PS4 Pro or any other brand, consider these factors:
- Internal vs. External: Internal SSDs replace your console’s existing drive, offering maximum integration. External SSDs connect via USB and are great for expanding game storage without replacing the internal drive.
- Speed (for external): Look for USB 3.0 or 3.1 compatibility for the best external performance.
- Reliability: A good warranty and positive user reviews are key.
- Capacity: 1TB is a sweet spot, offering ample space for several large games without needing constant juggling.
- Compatibility: Ensure the drive type (2.5-inch SATA for internal, or M.2 NVMe with an enclosure for external) matches your intended use.
Now, let’s dive into our top picks!
Our Top 5 1TB SSD Picks for PS4 Pro
Here are our hand-picked SSDs that are perfect for giving your PS4 Pro a much-needed speed injection.
1. SABRENT Rocket 4 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
The Sabrent Rocket 4 1TB NVMe SSD is a beast, originally designed for high-end PCs and the PS5, but its raw speed and reliability make it an over-the-top, yet excellent choice if you’re using an external NVMe enclosure for your PS4 Pro. While the PS4 Pro won’t fully leverage its PCIe Gen4 speeds internally, using it with a compatible USB 3.0/3.1 enclosure can still provide a massive boost over the stock HDD, especially for storing and running games externally. It’s built for pros and gamers who demand top-tier performance.
- Key Features:
- Blazing Gen4 Speed: Up to 7450MB/s read and 6100MB/s write speeds (optimized for Gen4 platforms).
- High IOPS, Efficient Design: Delivers up to 850K/800K random IOPS while maintaining low heat and power draw.
- Broad System Compatibility: Single-sided M.2 2280 form factor.
- Made for Pros and Gamers: Ideal for high-performance systems.
- Trusted Sabrent Support: Engineered with premium hardware and supports multiple OS.
- Pros:
- Extremely fast speeds (when paired with compatible hardware).
- Excellent for future-proofing or use with a PS5/PC.
- High endurance and reliable performance.
- Sabrent’s reputation for quality.
- Cons:
- Overkill for internal PS4 Pro use (won’t reach full Gen4 speeds).
- Requires an external enclosure for optimal PS4 Pro external use, increasing cost.
- User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise its incredible speed for game loading and system responsiveness, often highlighting its robust build. Many note that while it’s overkill for some systems, its performance is undeniable and makes everything feel snappier.
- See it on Amazon here
2. SABRENT 1TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2
The Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus is another formidable entry, pushing the boundaries of PCIe Gen4 performance. Similar to the Rocket 4, this drive is a powerhouse for modern PCs and PS5, but can be a superb external storage solution for your PS4 Pro when housed in a quality USB 3.0/3.1 NVMe enclosure. Its advanced features like wear leveling and error correction ensure longevity and data integrity, making it a very reliable choice for your precious game library. If you’re looking for the Sabrent best 1TB SSD for PS4 Pro that can also double as a future-proof drive, this is a strong contender.
- Key Features:
- NVMe M.2 PCIe Gen4 x4 Interface. PCIe 4.0 Compliant / NVMe 1.3 Compliant.
- Power Management Support for APST / ASPM / L1.2.
- Supports SMART and TRIM commands. Supports ONFi 2.3, ONFi 3.0, ONFi 3.2 and ONFi 4.0 interface.
- Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code, and Over-Provision.
- Comes with FREE Sabrent Acronis True Image for Sabrent Software for easy Cloning.
- Pros:
- Top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance for ultimate speed on compatible systems.
- Robust data management features for longevity and reliability.
- Includes cloning software, a handy bonus for backups or upgrades.
- Excellent for demanding gaming and creative workloads.
- Cons:
- High performance largely unutilized by PS4 Pro’s internal interface.
- Requires an external enclosure for PS4 Pro use, adding to the overall cost.
- User Impressions: Users frequently commend its blistering speeds, especially in PS5 and PC setups. They appreciate the included cloning software and note its consistent performance under heavy load, making it a favorite for gamers and power users alike.
- See it on Amazon here
3. SAMSUNG 990 PRO SSD 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal
The Samsung 990 PRO 1TB SSD is a titan in the PCIe Gen4 space, renowned for its incredible speeds and efficiency. While it’s also designed to push the limits on PC and PS5, its exceptional performance and robust thermal control make it an incredibly attractive option for PS4 Pro users who want the absolute best external NVMe solution money can buy. Paired with a high-quality USB 3.0/3.1 external enclosure, this drive will make your games load faster and run smoother than you ever thought possible on a PS4 Pro, giving a significant boost to your overall gaming experience.
- Key Features:
- HUGE SPEED BOOST: Get random read/write speeds that are 40%/55% faster than 980 PRO (up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s sequential).
- BREAKTHROUGH POWER EFFICIENCY: Up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO.
- SMART THERMAL CONTROL: Samsung’s nickel-coated controller delivers effective thermal control.
- THE CHAMPION MAKER: Up to 65% improvement in random performance for faster loads on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games.
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Advanced optimization tools for drive health and data protection.
- Pros:
- Industry-leading speeds and random IOPS for unparalleled performance.
- Excellent power efficiency and thermal management.
- Trusted Samsung reliability and robust Magician software.
- Future-proof for potential PS5 or PC upgrades.
- Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Full Gen4 speeds are not achievable on a PS4 Pro.
- User Impressions: Customers consistently highlight the 990 PRO’s mind-blowing speed and quick game loading, particularly noting its superior performance for gaming. Many appreciate its cool operation and the comprehensive features of the Samsung Magician software.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SABRENT 1TB Rocket Nano V2 External SSD – USB 3.2
Now, if you’re looking for an external Sabrent best 1TB SSD for PS4 Pro that’s ready to go right out of the box, the Sabrent Rocket Nano V2 is an absolute winner. This isn’t an internal NVMe drive that needs an enclosure; it’s a dedicated external SSD. It’s built for speed and portability, making it perfect for storing your PS4 Pro games. You simply plug it into a USB 3.0 port on your console, and you’re good to go. Its rugged design means you can take your game library on the go, and its 1500MB/s sustained transfers are more than enough to saturate the PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 ports for incredibly fast loading.
- Key Features:
- Unrivaled Speed Performance: Reach sustained transfer speeds of over 1500 MB/s.
- Rugged Yet Refined Design: Anodized aluminum housing and shock-absorbing silicone sleeve.
- Ready for Anything: Store up to 1TB of important files and games. Compact, travel-friendly.
- Dual-Cable Convenience: Includes USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables.
- Engineered for Longevity: High-endurance NAND flash with advanced wear leveling.
- Pros:
- Plug-and-play convenience for external PS4 Pro storage.
- Excellent sustained transfer speeds, maximizing PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 potential.
- Extremely durable and portable design.
- Includes all necessary cables for broad compatibility.
- Cons:
- External only, doesn’t replace the internal drive.
- Performance capped by PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 interface.
- User Impressions: Reviewers rave about its compact size, robust build, and impressive real-world transfer speeds. Many gamers specifically appreciate how it significantly cuts down on game loading times for their consoles, making it an ideal portable gaming drive.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 1TB, PCIe 5.0×4 M.2 2280, Seq.
Hold on to your hats – the Samsung 9100 PRO 1TB takes performance to the next level with PCIe 5.0. This drive is pure overkill for the PS4 Pro, designed for the cutting edge of PC and future console gaming. However, if you’re building the ultimate external storage solution for your PS4 Pro (using a high-quality USB 3.0/3.1 external enclosure), and you want a drive that will absolutely blow away any future PC or PS5 workload, then this is it. It combines insane speed with Samsung’s trusted reliability and advanced thermal management, making it a true champion for the most demanding users, and one that can provide excellent external performance for your PS4 Pro within its USB bandwidth limits.
- Key Features:
- BREAKTHROUGH PCIe 5.0 PERFORMANCE: Up to 14,800/13,400 MB/s sequential read/write speeds.
- EVERY TASK, TURBOCHARGED: Random read/write speeds up to 2,200K/2,600K IOPS.
- THINK FAST, CREATE FASTER: Fuels seamless AI content creation, swift loads, and smooth gameplay.
- STAY COOL, RUN FAST: 5nm controller boosts power efficiency up to 49% over 990 PRO SSD, with advanced thermal control.
- WORKS LIKE MAGIC: Magician Software for firmware updates, encryption, and drive health monitoring.
- WORLD’S NO. 1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: Performance and reliability you can count on.
- Pros:
- Unmatched PCIe 5.0 performance – the fastest consumer SSD available.
- Exceptional random read/write speeds for incredibly fast game loads and multitasking.
- Superior power efficiency and advanced thermal management.
- Future-proof for years to come with next-gen systems.
- Samsung’s legendary reliability and Magician software.
- Cons:
- Significantly more expensive than other options.
- Massively over-spec for the PS4 Pro, with most of its speed going unused.
- Requires a high-end external enclosure to function with PS4 Pro.
- User Impressions: Early adopters are astonished by its incredible speeds and the tangible difference it makes in load times and application responsiveness on Gen5 compatible systems. Users highlight its robust build and the peace of mind that comes with Samsung’s brand reputation.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Your PS4 Pro SSD Questions Answered
Q1: Can I use any 1TB SSD with my PS4 Pro?
A: For internal upgrades, your PS4 Pro requires a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD. NVMe M.2 drives, like many of the high-speed options listed, cannot be installed internally in the PS4 Pro directly. However, you can use almost any 1TB SSD (SATA or NVMe in an enclosure) as an external USB 3.0 drive for expanded game storage.
Q2: What’s the difference between an internal and external SSD for PS4 Pro?
A: An internal SSD replaces the console’s existing hard drive. All games and system data will reside on it, offering the fastest possible speeds for all operations on the console. An external SSD connects via one of the console’s USB 3.0 ports. It’s primarily used for storing and running games, significantly improving load times for those games. It doesn’t replace the system drive, so the console’s boot-up and menu navigation speeds might not see as dramatic an improvement as with an internal upgrade.
Q3: How do I install an SSD in my PS4 Pro?
A: Installing an internal SSD involves removing the old HDD and inserting the new 2.5-inch SATA SSD. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. After installation, you’ll need to re-install the PS4 system software from a USB drive. Sony provides official guides for this process. For an external SSD, it’s simpler: just plug it into a USB 3.0 port and format it via the PS4 Pro settings menu for extended storage.
Q4: Will an SSD really improve my PS4 Pro gaming experience?
A: Absolutely! While the PS4 Pro has hardware limitations that prevent it from fully utilizing the peak speeds of modern NVMe drives, even a SATA III SSD or an external USB 3.0 SSD will drastically reduce game load times, minimize texture pop-in, and make the overall system feel much snappier compared to the stock HDD. It’s one of the most impactful upgrades for a noticeable gaming performance boost.
Q5: What are NVMe and PCIe Gen4, and do they matter for PS4 Pro?
A: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a protocol that allows SSDs to communicate much faster with your system than older SATA protocols. PCIe Gen4 (PCI Express Generation 4) refers to the interface standard, offering double the bandwidth of Gen3. For PS4 Pro, these terms are mostly relevant if you’re using an NVMe drive in an external enclosure. The console’s internal SATA III interface is limited to about 6 Gbps, so a Gen4 NVMe drive installed internally (if it were possible) wouldn’t reach its full potential. However, an external NVMe drive connected via USB 3.0 can still offer excellent speeds, often faster than an internal SATA SSD for loading games.
Q6: Do I need to reformat my PS4 Pro after installing an internal SSD?
A: Yes, if you replace the internal drive, you will need to download the latest PS4 system software (the full reinstallation file, not just the update file) onto a USB flash drive and then install it on the new SSD. This process essentially wipes the drive and sets up the console’s operating system from scratch.
Q7: Why choose a 1TB SSD specifically?
A: A 1TB SSD offers a great balance of storage capacity and cost. Many modern games can easily take up 50GB, 100GB, or even more space. With 1TB, you can comfortably install a good number of AAA titles without constantly having to delete and re-download games, which saves time and bandwidth. It’s a practical choice for most serious gamers.
Final Thoughts on Boosting Your PS4 Pro
Upgrading your PS4 Pro with a 1TB SSD is a game-changer, plain and simple. Whether you opt for an internal SATA upgrade or an external NVMe solution from a brand like Sabrent or Samsung, you’re in for a treat. While the PS4 Pro might not unlock the absolute maximum potential of every drive on this list, each one offers a significant performance leap over the factory HDD.
For a straightforward, plug-and-play external solution, the Sabrent Rocket Nano V2 is a fantastic choice. If you’re looking for the Sabrent best 1TB SSD for PS4 Pro that can also serve as a high-performance drive for a future PS5 or PC, the Rocket 4 or Rocket 4 Plus (with an enclosure) are excellent, future-proof investments. No matter which you choose, you’ll be enjoying faster load times and a smoother gaming experience in no time!