Hey there, fellow PlayStation gamer! Are you tired of long loading screens, sluggish game performance, and constantly having to delete games just to make space for new ones on your PS4? You’re not alone. The standard hard drive in your PlayStation 4 is often the bottleneck that holds back your gaming adventures. The good news? Upgrading to a solid-state drive (SSD) can breathe new life into your console.
When it comes to reliable and performance-driven storage, Crucial is a brand that consistently stands out. That’s why we’re diving deep into some of the Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4 options available right now. Whether you’re looking for an internal upgrade to truly supercharge your console or a convenient external drive to expand your game library, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the top Crucial 1TB SSDs that can elevate your PS4 gaming experience!
Why Upgrade Your PS4 Storage with an SSD?
Before we jump into the products, let’s quickly chat about why an SSD is such a game-changer for your PS4:
- Blazing Fast Load Times: This is the biggest draw. SSDs read and write data significantly faster than traditional HDDs, meaning you’ll spend less time staring at loading screens and more time actually playing.
- Smoother Gameplay: While an SSD doesn’t boost your PS4’s GPU or CPU, faster data access can help alleviate texture pop-in and improve overall system responsiveness.
- Quieter Operation: SSDs have no moving parts, so they generate less heat and operate silently, unlike the whirring of a traditional hard drive.
- Enhanced Durability: Without moving parts, SSDs are more resistant to drops and bumps, making them a sturdy choice for both internal and external use.
Now, let’s check out the top Crucial 1TB SSDs that are perfect for your PS4!
Product Reviews: Your Crucial 1TB SSD Options for PS4
1. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
If you’re looking to give your PS4 an internal speed injection, the Crucial BX500 1TB is a fantastic choice. This 2.5-inch SATA SSD is designed to seamlessly replace your PS4’s existing hard drive, offering a dramatic improvement in boot times, game loading, and overall system responsiveness. It’s a straightforward upgrade that truly transforms the console’s performance, making your gaming sessions snappier and more enjoyable. Think of it as giving your PS4 a major caffeine boost!
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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 still more energy-efficient for PS4).
- Micron 3D NAND technology ensures reliable performance.
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for money for an internal PS4 upgrade.
- Significantly reduces game loading times.
- Easy to install internally in a PS4 (requires a screwdriver and basic technical comfort).
- Quiet operation and improved durability.
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Cons:
- Requires opening your PS4 console for installation.
- SATA III speeds are not as fast as NVMe, but still a massive upgrade over HDD.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the BX500 for its noticeable speed improvements on their PS4, often citing how much more enjoyable games become without constant loading screen waits. Many mention the installation process is simpler than they anticipated, making it a popular DIY upgrade.
2. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Let’s get this out of the way first: the Crucial P310 is a high-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD, which means it is not suitable for an internal PS4 upgrade. The PS4 uses a 2.5-inch SATA drive, not an M.2 NVMe slot. However, if you’re a multi-platform gamer or also looking to upgrade your PC, PS5 (with an M.2 enclosure), or other compatible devices, this drive offers incredible speeds for quick game loads and snappy multitasking. It’s built for raw performance in modern systems, even if it’s not the direct Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4 internal solution.
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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: Ample room for AAA games and applications.
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles (like ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, AYANEO Kun), and is backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation, boosting performance for various tasks.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast speeds for compatible systems (PC, PS5 with adapter, modern handhelds).
- Excellent for boosting productivity and game load times on NVMe-compatible platforms.
- Reliable performance due to Micron quality.
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Cons:
- Not compatible for internal PS4 upgrade.
- Using it externally with a PS4 via an NVMe enclosure would bottleneck its speed significantly due to USB limitations.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the P310’s incredible speed, noting how it drastically cuts down on boot times and application loading on their PCs or other compatible devices. While not for PS4, its performance is highly valued for modern computing and gaming setups.
3. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD
For those who prefer not to open their console or want a flexible storage solution they can take on the go, the Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD is a superb choice for your PS4. This external SSD connects easily via USB, providing plenty of space for your game library and offering a noticeable speed boost over the PS4’s internal HDD for installed games. It’s built tough, too, making it ideal for gamers who might travel or just need something resilient next to their console.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for accelerating large file transfers, media editing, and backups.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, plus drop resistance 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: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Easy plug-and-play setup for PS4 – no opening the console required.
- Offers improved game loading times compared to the internal PS4 HDD.
- Rugged design with IP55 rating and drop resistance.
- Highly versatile for use across multiple devices.
- Compact and portable.
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Cons:
- Limited by the PS4’s USB 3.0 speeds (around 5 Gbps / 625 MB/s theoretical max), so its full 1050MB/s potential isn’t realized on PS4.
- Games must be stored on the external drive to benefit from its speed.
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User Impressions: Users love the X9 for its robust build quality and the sheer convenience of expanding their PS4 storage without fuss. The speed improvement for games stored on the drive is frequently highlighted, making it a popular choice for hassle-free storage expansion.
4. Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD
Stepping up the speed game, the Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD is for those who demand even faster external storage. While its maximum speeds (up to 2,100MB/s read) will be bottlenecked by the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports, it still provides exceptional performance for games stored externally, often feeling even snappier than its X9 sibling due to better sustained performance. It shares the X9’s impressive durability, making it a premium choice for external PS4 storage, especially if you also plan to use it with faster USB 3.2 Gen2x2 compatible devices like modern PCs.
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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, plus drop resistance up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
- 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 SSD for all your files.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Even faster potential speeds than the X9 (though limited by PS4 USB).
- Superior IP65 dust and water resistance and higher drop rating.
- Plug-and-play simplicity for PS4 external storage.
- Excellent for future-proofing or use with faster devices.
- Compact and durable.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to its advanced speed capabilities, which aren’t fully utilized by the PS4.
- Still subject to the PS4’s USB 3.0 speed limitations.
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the X10’s phenomenal speed when connected to compatible devices. For PS4 users, it’s praised for delivering a smooth external gaming experience and its ruggedness, offering peace of mind even in demanding environments.
5. Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD
Designed with professional creators and demanding users in mind, the Crucial X9 Pro 1TB Portable SSD brings a touch of premium quality to your PS4 external storage. Offering fast read and write speeds of up to 1050MB/s, similar to the standard X9 but with enhanced reliability and features like SSD password protection. It’s built for rigorous field work, ensuring your valuable game data (or any other files) are secure and accessible. This option provides a fantastic blend of speed, durability, and professional-grade security for your game library.
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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).
- Enhanced Security: Includes SSD password protection for on-the-go security.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Reliable high-speed performance for external PS4 gaming.
- Robust IP55 rating and drop resistance.
- Added security with SSD password protection (useful for other data).
- Compact, professional design with a lanyard loop and activity light.
- Excellent for both gaming and professional creative work.
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Cons:
- Similar speed to the non-Pro X9, but at a higher price point.
- PS4’s USB limitations mean you won’t get the full professional-grade benefits for gaming alone.
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User Impressions: Professionals and gamers alike commend the X9 Pro for its consistent performance, robust build, and added security features. For PS4 users, it’s seen as a reliable and durable option for expanding storage, with the added benefit of being a trustworthy drive for other critical data.
Choosing the Crucial Best 1TB SSD for PS4: Internal vs. External
When deciding on the Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4, you essentially have two paths:
- Internal SSD (e.g., Crucial BX500): This replaces your PS4’s stock hard drive entirely. It offers the most significant performance boost across the board, affecting everything from system boot-up to game loading and even navigating the PS4 menu. It requires a bit of DIY, but it’s totally worth it for the full performance upgrade.
- External SSD (e.g., Crucial X9, X10, X9 Pro): This plugs into one of your PS4’s USB ports. It’s incredibly easy to set up – just plug and play! Games installed on the external SSD will load much faster, giving you a noticeable improvement. It’s also portable, letting you take your game library with you. However, the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports will cap the SSD’s maximum speed, so you won’t experience its full potential.
For most PS4 gamers, either option provides a vast improvement over the stock HDD. If you’re comfortable with a screwdriver, an internal upgrade is the way to go for the best overall experience. If you want convenience, portability, or simply don’t want to open your console, an external Crucial SSD is an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I really install an SSD in my PS4 myself?
A1: Yes, absolutely! The PS4 is designed to allow users to upgrade their hard drive. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, a USB drive for the PS4 system software, and about 15-30 minutes. There are tons of video tutorials online that walk you through the process step-by-step.
Q2: Will an SSD make my games run at a higher frame rate on PS4?
A2: An SSD won’t directly increase your frame rates, as that’s primarily dictated by the PS4’s CPU and GPU. However, by reducing texture pop-in and speeding up the loading of game assets, it can contribute to a smoother, more consistent gaming experience by eliminating bottlenecks in data delivery.
Q3: What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs, and which does my PS4 use?
A3: SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) SSDs connect via a traditional cable and are the standard 2.5-inch form factor that the PS4 supports internally. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs are much faster and typically come in a smaller M.2 stick form factor. The PS4 only supports 2.5-inch SATA SSDs internally, not NVMe M.2 drives.
Q4: How do I set up an external Crucial SSD with my PS4?
A4: It’s super simple! Just plug the external SSD into one of your PS4’s USB 3.0 ports. Go to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices. Select your Crucial SSD and choose “Format as Extended Storage.” This will wipe the drive and prepare it for storing PS4 games and applications.
Q5: Can I move games from my internal PS4 drive to an external SSD (and vice-versa)?
A5: Yes! Once your external SSD is formatted as extended storage, you can easily move games. Go to Settings > Storage > System Storage (or Extended Storage) > Applications, select the games you want to move, press the Options button, and choose “Move to Extended Storage” (or “Move to System Storage”).
Q6: Is 1TB enough storage for my PS4?
A6: For most gamers, 1TB offers a significant amount of space, allowing you to install many AAA titles and smaller games without constantly having to delete them. It’s a great balance between capacity and cost, making it a popular choice for PS4 storage upgrades.
Q7: Does using an external SSD void my PS4 warranty?
A7: No, using an external SSD with your PS4 does not void the warranty, as it’s a supported feature. If you replace the internal HDD with an SSD, Sony explicitly allows this in the PS4’s design, and doing so will also not void your warranty, provided you follow the correct procedures.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 4 with a Crucial best 1TB SSD for PS4 is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your gaming setup. Whether you opt for the simplicity of an external drive like the Crucial X9, X10, or X9 Pro, or you’re ready to dive into an internal upgrade with the Crucial BX500, you’re guaranteed to see a significant boost in performance. Say goodbye to those agonizing loading screens and hello to a smoother, more enjoyable gaming experience.
Don’t let slow storage hold you back any longer. Pick the Crucial 1TB SSD that fits your needs and unleash the full potential of your PS4!