Let’s face it, the PlayStation 4 is an amazing console, but its standard hard drive can be a real bottleneck. Slow loading times, lengthy installs, and limited storage are common complaints. If you’re looking to give your PS4 a significant performance upgrade, investing in a solid-state drive (SSD) is one of the best moves you can make. Specifically, a 1TB SSD offers that sweet spot of ample storage for your growing game library without breaking the bank.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4? Crucial is a well-respected brand in the storage world, known for its reliable and performance-driven SSDs. We’ve rounded up five excellent Crucial 1TB SSD options that can help you get back to gaming faster. Whether you’re considering an internal swap or an easy external plug-and-play solution, we’ve got you covered. Get ready for quicker game loads, smoother gameplay, and more space for all your digital adventures!
1. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
The Crucial BX500 1TB SSD is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a straightforward, cost-effective internal upgrade for your PS4. This 2.5-inch SATA drive is designed to replace your console’s existing hard disk drive (HDD), offering a dramatic improvement in boot times, game loading speeds, and overall system responsiveness. It’s a true workhorse that brings modern SSD performance to your beloved console, making your gaming sessions snappier and more enjoyable. It’s truly a strong contender for the Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4 when it comes to internal upgrades.
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Key Features
- Boot up faster, load files quicker, and improve overall system responsiveness
- Up to 300% faster than a typical hard drive
- Improves battery life (for laptops, though not a direct PS4 benefit) because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive
- Built with Micron 3D NAND technology
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty
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Pros
- Significant improvement in game loading and console boot times for PS4
- Affordable internal SSD solution
- Easy installation process for PS4 (requires a screwdriver and USB drive for OS reinstallation)
- Reliable performance from a trusted brand
- Quiet operation compared to traditional HDDs
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Cons
- Performance is limited by the PS4’s SATA II interface, so you won’t get its full advertised speed
- Requires backing up and reinstalling your PS4’s operating system
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User Impressions
Users consistently praise the BX500 for transforming their PS4’s performance, citing noticeable reductions in game load screens for titles like Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption 2. Many consider it an essential upgrade for older PS4 models, appreciating the smoother experience despite the console’s hardware limitations. The ease of installation is also frequently highlighted, making it a popular DIY upgrade.
2. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Now, before we dive too deep, it’s important to clarify: the Crucial P310 is a PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD. While it’s an absolute beast for PCs and the PlayStation 5 (when used with a compatible M.2 slot), it’s not an internal upgrade option for the PlayStation 4. The PS4 uses a 2.5-inch SATA interface, not M.2 NVMe. However, if you were to put this drive into a compatible external NVMe enclosure, you could use it as an external drive for your PS4. But frankly, the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports would severely bottleneck its incredible speed, making it overkill. So, while a fantastic drive, it’s not the ideal direct Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4 internal solution, but it’s listed here for awareness as a Crucial 1TB SSD.
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Key Features
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds
- Spacious 1TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles (like PS5, not PS4)
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control
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Pros
- Blazing-fast speeds for compatible devices (PCs, PS5)
- Excellent for high-performance computing and next-gen gaming
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor
- High-quality Micron NAND for reliability
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Cons
- NOT an internal upgrade for PS4
- Using it externally with a PS4 via an enclosure would severely limit its potential
- More expensive than SATA SSDs due to its advanced technology
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User Impressions
PC and PS5 users rave about the P310’s incredible speed and value. They highlight its ability to drastically cut down on game load times and system boot-ups, making for a much snappier experience. While not for PS4 directly, those who use it with compatible systems consider it a top-tier performance boost.
3. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD
If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss way to expand your PS4 storage and get faster game loading without opening up your console, the Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent option. This external drive connects effortlessly via USB, instantly providing you with ample space for your digital game library. It’s incredibly convenient, allowing you to move games between consoles or take your favorites on the go. For ease of use and immediate impact, this is a strong contender for the Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4 external users.
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Key Features
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for accelerating large file transfers, media editing, and backup processes
- 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: Compact 1TB SSD for photos, videos, backups, and games
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image (upon registration)
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Pros
- Plug-and-play simplicity for PS4
- Significant speed improvement over traditional external HDDs
- Durable and portable design, great for travel
- Compatible with a wide range of devices
- No need to open the PS4 or reinstall the OS
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Cons
- Limited by the PS4’s USB 3.0 interface (theoretical maximum 625 MB/s)
- Typically more expensive than internal SATA SSDs for the same capacity
- Takes up one of your PS4’s USB ports
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User Impressions
Gamers love the Crucial X9 for its convenience and speed. They report substantial reductions in game load times when running titles from the external SSD compared to the internal HDD. Its robust build quality and compact size also receive high marks, making it a favorite for those who move their console or games frequently.
4. Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD
Stepping up the game from the X9, the Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD offers even faster performance, making it a premium choice for external storage. While its lightning-fast 2,100MB/s speeds won’t be fully utilized by the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports (which cap at around 625MB/s), you’ll still experience excellent load times and improved fluidity for your games. If you want a top-tier external solution that offers extreme durability and future-proof speed for other devices, the X10 is a fantastic option. It’s truly a high-end Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4 external solution.
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Key Features
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for fast data access
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres)
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Compact 1TB external SSD for photos, videos, backups, and games
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image (upon registration)
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Pros
- Exceptional speed (even when bottlenecked by PS4 USB, still faster than HDD)
- Outstanding durability with IP65 rating and extreme drop resistance
- Future-proof for faster devices like PCs and PS5
- Plug-and-play with PS4, no internal installation required
- Compact and stylish matte blue design
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Cons
- Premium price point
- PS4’s USB 3.0 interface doesn’t allow it to reach its full advertised speed
- Takes up a USB port on your console
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User Impressions
Users laud the X10 for its incredible build quality and blistering speeds, even if not fully realized on a PS4. They appreciate the peace of mind offered by its robust protection against dust, water, and drops. Many use it across multiple platforms, benefiting from its versatility and speed on newer devices while still getting a noticeable boost on their PS4.
5. Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD
Designed with professional creators in mind, the Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD brings enterprise-grade reliability and sustained performance to the external storage game. With impressive read and write speeds of up to 1050MB/s, it’s perfectly capable of providing a significant boost to your PS4 game loading times, similar to the standard X9 but often with better sustained performance under heavy loads. Its enhanced durability features and data protection options make it a solid and secure choice, positioning it as a strong contender for the Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4 if you value robustness and consistent performance.
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Key Features
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds for a seamless workflow
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection
- 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: Compact 1TB SSD for creative files, backups, and games
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image (upon registration)
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Pros
- Consistent and reliable high-speed performance for PS4 games
- Enhanced durability and protection (IP55, drop resistance, password protection)
- Professional-grade build quality and reliability
- Versatile compatibility across many devices
- No internal PS4 installation required
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Cons
- Similar speed to the standard X9, but at a higher price due to ‘Pro’ features
- PS4’s USB 3.0 interface limits its full potential
- Occupies a USB port on the console
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User Impressions
Users appreciate the X9 Pro for its robust construction and consistent speed. Many who work with large files or frequently transfer data praise its sustained performance, which translates well to quicker game transfers and load times on the PS4. The added security features and overall premium feel make it a standout for those seeking a more professional-grade external solution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I upgrade my PS4 storage with an SSD?
A: Upgrading your PS4’s storage to an SSD, whether internal or external, dramatically improves game loading times, console boot-up speeds, and overall system responsiveness. It can make a noticeable difference in games with frequent loading screens, getting you into the action faster.
Q2: Can I use an external SSD for PS4 games?
A: Absolutely! The PS4 fully supports external storage devices via USB 3.0. You can install and run games directly from an external SSD, which is a fantastic way to expand your game library and enjoy faster loading without needing to open your console. Just plug it in, format it through the PS4 settings, and you’re good to go.
Q3: What’s the difference between internal and external SSDs for PS4?
A: An internal SSD replaces the PS4’s original hard drive. This requires opening the console, backing up your data, installing the new SSD, and reinstalling the PS4’s operating system. It generally offers the best performance boost for system functions and game loading for games installed directly on it. An external SSD connects via USB. It’s much simpler to set up (plug and play) and doesn’t require opening the console. Games stored on it will still load faster than from the internal HDD, though the speed might be slightly limited by the PS4’s USB 3.0 interface compared to an optimal internal SSD setup.
Q4: Is it hard to install an internal SSD in a PS4?
A: For most PS4 models (Original, Slim, Pro), installing an internal 2.5-inch SATA SSD like the Crucial BX500 is a relatively straightforward process. It typically involves removing a small cover, unscrewing a few screws, sliding out the old drive, and inserting the new one. You’ll also need a USB flash drive to reinstall the PS4 system software. Many step-by-step guides and videos are available online to walk you through it.
Q5: Will an SSD make my PS4 games run faster or improve graphics?
A: An SSD will significantly reduce game loading times, texture pop-in (in some cases), and overall responsiveness, making your gaming experience feel much smoother and snappier. However, it will not increase your game’s frame rate or improve graphical fidelity, as those aspects are determined by the PS4’s CPU and GPU.
Q6: Do all Crucial 1TB SSDs work with PS4?
A: Not all Crucial 1TB SSDs are suitable for internal PS4 use. The PS4 requires a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD for internal replacement (like the Crucial BX500). NVMe M.2 SSDs (like the Crucial P310) are not compatible as internal drives for the PS4. However, most Crucial portable external SSDs (like the X9, X10, X9 Pro) are universally compatible with the PS4 via a USB connection for external game storage.
Q7: How do I format an external SSD for PS4?
A: Once you connect your external Crucial SSD to your PS4 via a USB 3.0 port, navigate to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices. Select your connected SSD, then choose “Format as Extended Storage.” Your PS4 will handle the rest, making it ready for games and applications.