Feeling the need for speed? If your PC or laptop still chugs along with an old hard drive or even an older SSD, you’re missing out on a significant performance boost. For anyone serious about gaming, video editing, data analysis, or simply wanting their computer to feel snappier, upgrading to a PCIe Gen 4 SSD is a game-changer. These drives, often called “4.0 SSDs,” offer mind-blowing read and write speeds that can slash load times, accelerate file transfers, and make your entire system feel incredibly responsive.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best 4.0 SSD for your setup? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the legwork and reviewed some of the top high-performance SSDs on the market, including the cream of the crop in PCIe 4.0 drives, along with excellent portable and traditional options for different needs. Let’s dive in!
Why Upgrade to a PCIe 4.0 SSD?
So, what’s all the fuss about? A PCIe 4.0 SSD leverages the latest PCI Express interface, offering double the bandwidth of its predecessor, PCIe 3.0. This translates directly into:
- Blazing Fast Speeds: We’re talking sequential read/write speeds that can hit over 7,000 MB/s, making data transfers unbelievably quick.
- Reduced Load Times: Games, applications, and operating systems will boot up and load levels in a flash.
- Smoother Multitasking: Handle demanding tasks and numerous applications simultaneously without slowdowns.
- Future-Proofing: As software and games become more resource-intensive, a 4.0 SSD ensures you’re ready for what’s next.
Now, let’s look at some of the top contenders!
Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4×4
If you’re after a fantastic blend of raw speed and smart design, the Samsung 990 EVO Plus is definitely one to consider. This internal NVMe SSD takes full advantage of the PCIe Gen 4×4 interface, offering incredibly fast sequential read and write speeds that make it a powerhouse for large file transfers, demanding applications, and intense gaming sessions. It’s built with efficiency in mind, ensuring top-tier performance without excessive heat or power draw, which is a big plus for both desktops and laptops.
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Key Features:
- Groundbreaking sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.
- Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 for enhanced large-file performance, now available in 4TB.
- Exceptional thermal control with a nickel-coated controller for less power consumption.
- Optimized for PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility, offering future flexibility.
- Magician Software for continuous firmware updates, encryption, and drive health monitoring.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast for daily tasks, gaming, and content creation.
- Efficient power usage helps with battery life in laptops.
- Excellent thermal management prevents throttling.
- 4TB capacity is generous for most users.
- Magician software is a valuable utility.
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Cons:
- Requires a compatible PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot to achieve full speeds.
- May be overkill for basic computing needs.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the 990 EVO Plus for its noticeable speed improvements, especially when upgrading from older drives. Many highlight how effortlessly it handles intensive workloads, making their systems feel significantly more responsive. Its efficient thermal performance also gets a thumbs up from those concerned about heat.
Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal
The Samsung 990 PRO is a true titan in the world of internal SSDs, representing the pinnacle of PCIe 4.0 performance. Designed for hardcore gamers, professional content creators, and tech enthusiasts, this drive pushes the limits of what PCIe 4.0 can deliver. With astonishingly fast read and write speeds, it’s engineered to virtually eliminate loading screens and ensure buttery-smooth performance even during the most demanding computing tasks. If you’re looking for the absolute best 4.0 SSD performance and have the system to match, the 990 PRO is a prime candidate.
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Key Features:
- Near-max PCIe 4.0 performance with read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s.
- Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to its predecessor, the 980 PRO.
- Built for heavy computing, gaming, video editing, and data analysis.
- Available in capacities up to 4TB, offering ample space.
- Up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO, enhancing power efficiency.
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Pros:
- One of the fastest PCIe 4.0 SSDs available, ideal for top-tier performance.
- Exceptional random read/write speeds for quick application launches.
- Highly power-efficient for its performance tier.
- Large storage capacities are great for extensive game libraries or professional projects.
- Trusted Samsung reliability.
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Cons:
- Premium price tag reflects its top-tier performance.
- Optimal performance requires a PCIe 4.0 compatible motherboard and CPU.
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently blown away by the 990 PRO’s speed, often reporting dramatically faster boot times and game loads. Gamers especially love it for virtually eliminating texture pop-in and long loading screens. Its robust performance under sustained heavy loads is a frequently mentioned highlight.
SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 4TB External Solid State Drive
While our main focus is on the best 4.0 SSD internal drives, sometimes you need lightning-fast storage you can take anywhere. The Samsung T7 Portable SSD steps up to the plate beautifully. It’s an external drive that uses internal NVMe technology (which itself runs on PCIe lanes) to deliver impressive speeds over its USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface. This means it’s super quick for an external drive, perfect for backing up massive photo and video libraries, running virtual machines on the go, or even recording high-resolution video directly from compatible cameras and phones. Its compact, durable design makes it a true mobile workhorse.
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Key Features:
- Fast external read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Embedded with PCIe NVMe technology for robust performance.
- Compact design with capacities up to 4TB.
- Extensive compatibility with PCs, Macs, Android devices, and gaming consoles.
- Shock-resistant and fall protection up to 6 feet due to solid aluminum unibody.
- Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K 60fps video recording.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast for an external drive.
- Highly portable and durable.
- Excellent for content creators on the move.
- Wide device compatibility.
- Generous storage capacity.
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Cons:
- Its external USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface means it won’t achieve the multi-gigabyte speeds of internal PCIe 4.0 SSDs.
- Not a direct internal upgrade for a PC’s main drive.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the T7’s portability and robust build quality. Many content creators find it indispensable for its speed and reliability when transferring large video files or working on projects away from their main workstation. Gamers appreciate its ability to quickly load games on consoles.
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 External
Taking portable storage to the next level, the Samsung T9 Portable SSD is built for creators who demand top-tier speed on the move. While still an external drive and not a direct PCIe 4.0 internal SSD, the T9 utilizes the USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, which offers twice the theoretical bandwidth of the T7’s USB 3.2 Gen 2. This allows it to achieve incredibly fast sustained read and write speeds up to 2,000MB/s, making it ideal for large-scale video editing, massive file transfers, and even running demanding applications directly from the drive. Its advanced thermal solution also ensures it stays cool even during prolonged, intensive use.
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Key Features:
- Blazing fast sustained read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
- Dynamic Thermal Guard prevents overheating during heavy use.
- Extensive compatibility with desktops, cameras, gaming consoles, and iPhone 15 Pro.
- Durable design built for heavy use and longevity.
- Magician Software for health monitoring and firmware updates.
- Available in up to 4TB capacity.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for an external SSD.
- Excellent thermal management for sustained performance.
- Highly versatile and compatible with many devices.
- Rugged and reliable for mobile workflows.
- Perfect for professionals handling large media files.
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port to achieve maximum speeds, which isn’t as common as other USB types.
- Still an external drive, not designed to replace an internal system drive for PCIe 4.0 performance.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the T9’s raw speed and its ability to maintain performance even under heavy loads, thanks to its thermal control. Video editors and photographers, in particular, find it transformative for their workflows. The robust build and compatibility are also frequently lauded.
SAMSUNG 870 EVO 4TB 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD
While we’re talking about the best 4.0 SSD options, it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone needs or can utilize the bleeding edge of PCIe Gen 4. For those looking for a reliable, high-capacity internal SSD that delivers excellent performance on the widely compatible SATA III interface, the Samsung 870 EVO is a long-standing champion. It won’t hit the multi-gigabyte speeds of NVMe PCIe 4.0 drives, but it maximizes the SATA interface, offering significantly faster performance than traditional hard drives and robust reliability. It’s an excellent choice for upgrading older systems, as a secondary storage drive, or for general everyday computing where PCIe 4.0 isn’t required or supported.
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Key Features:
- Maximizes SATA III interface limit with sequential speeds up to 560/530 MB/s.
- Accelerates write speeds and maintains long-term high performance with a larger variable buffer.
- Industry-defining reliability with up to 2,400 TBW (Terabytes Written).
- Highly compatible with major host systems, chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices.
- Classic 2.5-inch form factor for broad compatibility.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for a SATA SSD.
- Superb reliability and endurance (high TBW rating).
- Broad compatibility with older and newer systems.
- More affordable per terabyte than PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives.
- Ideal for upgrading traditional laptops and desktops.
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Cons:
- Significantly slower than any PCIe 4.0 SSD.
- Not suitable for systems requiring the absolute fastest loading or transfer speeds.
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User Impressions: The 870 EVO is a fan favorite for its consistent, rock-solid performance and legendary Samsung reliability. Users often report a dramatic speed increase when upgrading from an HDD, making their older systems feel new again. Its ease of installation and long-term durability are frequently praised.
How to Choose the Best SSD for Your Needs
Deciding on the right SSD, especially when looking for the best 4.0 SSD, boils down to a few key factors:
- Compatibility: Does your motherboard have an M.2 slot that supports PCIe 4.0? If not, a PCIe 3.0 NVMe or a SATA SSD might be a better fit. For external drives, check your USB port versions (USB 3.2 Gen 2 vs. Gen 2×2).
- Speed Needs: Are you a hardcore gamer or content creator who needs every ounce of speed, or is a reliable, fast general-purpose drive sufficient?
- Capacity: How much storage do you need? 1TB is a good starting point for a main drive, but 2TB or 4TB offers much more breathing room for games and large files.
- Internal vs. External: Do you need a permanent upgrade for your PC or portable storage you can carry around?
- Budget: PCIe 4.0 SSDs tend to be more expensive than SATA SSDs or even PCIe 3.0 drives.
FAQ Section
Q1: What exactly is a PCIe 4.0 SSD?
A: A PCIe 4.0 SSD is a type of Solid State Drive (SSD) that connects to your computer’s motherboard via the PCI Express 4.0 interface. This interface provides double the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0, allowing PCIe 4.0 SSDs to achieve much faster data transfer speeds, typically ranging from 5,000 MB/s to over 7,000 MB/s for sequential reads and writes.
Q2: What are the main benefits of upgrading to a PCIe 4.0 SSD?
A: The primary benefits include dramatically faster game and application load times, quicker file transfers (especially for large files), a more responsive operating system, and improved performance for demanding tasks like 4K/8K video editing or complex data analysis. It also helps future-proof your system for upcoming software and games.
Q3: Can I use a PCIe 4.0 SSD in a PCIe 3.0 slot?
A: Yes, in most cases, a PCIe 4.0 SSD is backward compatible with PCIe 3.0 slots. However, when used in a PCIe 3.0 slot, the SSD’s performance will be limited by the PCIe 3.0 interface’s lower bandwidth. This means it won’t achieve its maximum advertised PCIe 4.0 speeds, but it will still perform at the highest possible speeds for a PCIe 3.0 drive, which is still very fast.
Q4: Is a PCIe 4.0 SSD compatible with my motherboard?
A: To use a PCIe 4.0 SSD at its full speed, your motherboard needs an M.2 slot that explicitly supports PCIe 4.0. This usually requires a relatively modern motherboard with chipsets like AMD B550, X570, or newer Intel Z490, Z590, Z690, Z790, B660, B760, and their successors. Always check your motherboard’s specifications or manual to confirm PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot availability.
Q5: What’s the difference between an internal and external SSD?
A: An internal SSD is installed directly inside your computer (usually in an M.2 slot or 2.5-inch bay) and serves as your main storage drive. An external SSD connects via a USB cable and is designed for portability, backup, and expanding storage without opening your computer. Internal SSDs generally offer much faster speeds, especially PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives, while external SSDs prioritize convenience and mobility.
Q6: How much storage capacity do I need for my SSD?
A: This depends on your usage:
* 500GB: Good for basic computing, light gaming, and essential documents.
* 1TB: A popular choice for gamers and general users, offering ample space for the OS, several large games, and applications.
* 2TB: Ideal for serious gamers, content creators, or users with extensive software libraries and large media files.
* 4TB+: Best for professional content creators, large game libraries, or users who need massive amounts of fast storage for data-intensive projects.
Q7: What does TBW mean for SSDs?
A: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written.” It’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance, indicating how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before it might start to degrade. A higher TBW rating means the drive is expected to last longer under heavy write loads. For most consumer uses, even lower TBW ratings are more than sufficient for many years of use.
Q8: Do PCIe 4.0 SSDs get hot?
A: Yes, high-performance PCIe 4.0 SSDs can generate significant heat due to their rapid data transfer speeds. This is why many come with built-in heatsinks or require a motherboard with effective M.2 heatsinks to prevent “thermal throttling” (where the drive slows down to cool itself). Proper airflow in your PC case is also beneficial for heat dissipation.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for the absolute best 4.0 SSD to power your next-gen gaming rig or a versatile, speedy external drive for your creative pursuits, Samsung offers some stellar options. The Samsung 990 PRO and 990 EVO Plus stand out as true PCIe 4.0 powerhouses, delivering incredible internal speeds that will transform your computing experience. Meanwhile, the T7 and T9 portable SSDs bring that NVMe speed to your external storage needs, and the 870 EVO remains a reliable workhorse for traditional SATA setups.
No matter your choice, upgrading to an SSD is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your computer’s performance. So, go ahead, give your system the speed boost it deserves!