In today’s digital world, whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a creative professional, or just someone with a rapidly growing collection of files, storage space is always at a premium. But it’s not just about capacity; speed and reliability are equally crucial. That’s where a high-quality Solid State Drive (SSD) comes in, and few brands match Samsung’s reputation for cutting-edge flash memory technology. If you’re looking to upgrade your system or expand your storage with a generous capacity, finding the best 4TB Samsung SSD can truly transform your computing experience.
Why 4TB, you ask? It’s the sweet spot for many users. It offers ample room for large game libraries, extensive video projects, vast photo collections, or simply future-proofing your setup without immediately breaking the bank on 8TB options. We’ve handpicked five of Samsung’s top 4TB SSD offerings, diving into what makes each one shine, helping you pick the perfect one for your needs.
Let’s explore the contenders for the title of best 4TB Samsung SSD!
Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re after blistering speeds and top-tier performance for gaming, heavy computing, or demanding creative tasks, the Samsung 990 PRO SSD is an absolute powerhouse. This PCIe 4.0 NVMe drive is engineered to deliver near-max theoretical performance, ensuring lightning-fast load times and seamless multitasking. It’s a true next-generation internal SSD that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with current technology.
Key Features:
– MEET THE NEXT GEN: Near max performance with lightning-fast speeds for hardcore gamers and tech gurus.
– REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to the 980 PRO, ideal for heavy computing.
– THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: Read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, near max PCIe 4.0 performance.
– PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Generous 4TB storage capacity for gaming, video editing, data analysis, and more.
– IT’S A POWER MOVE: Up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO, ensuring power efficiency.
Pros:
– Exceptional sequential and random read/write speeds, perfect for high-performance needs.
– Significantly improved power efficiency over previous generations.
– Ideal for gaming, content creation, and professional workstations.
– Reliability from Samsung, a leading flash memory brand.
Cons:
– Requires a motherboard with a PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot to achieve full speeds.
– Premium price point reflects its high-end performance.
User Impressions:
Customers consistently rave about the 990 PRO’s incredible speed and how it drastically reduces load times for games and large applications. Many highlight its ease of installation and the noticeable performance boost it brings to their systems, making it a favorite among power users.
Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 4TB, PCIe 5.0×4 M.2 2280
For those who demand the absolute bleeding edge of storage technology, the Samsung SSD 9100 PRO is here to break all barriers. This beast of a drive leverages the new PCIe 5.0 standard, offering unprecedented sequential read/write speeds that are twice as fast as even the formidable 990 PRO. If you’re building a top-tier PC or workstation for the most demanding tasks like 8K video editing, complex AI applications, or competitive gaming, this is your ultimate storage solution.
Key Features:
– BREAKTHROUGH PCIe 5.0 PERFORMANCE: Up to 14,800/13,400 MB/s sequential read/write speeds, twice as fast as 990 PRO.
– EVERY TASK, TURBOCHARGED: Random read/write speeds up to 2,200K/2,600K IOPS for lightning-fast game loads and seamless AI apps.
– THINK FAST, CREATE FASTER: Fuels seamless AI content creation, swift loads, and smooth gameplay.
– SPEED, WHENEVER YOU NEED: Blazing PCIe 5.0 speeds for laptops to desktop PCs, perfect for video editing, gaming, and creative tasks.
– STAY COOL, RUN FAST: 5nm controller boosts power efficiency up to 49% over 990 PRO, with advanced thermal control.
– BREAK FREE FROM STORAGE LIMITS: Up to 8TB capacity options available (this review focuses on the 4TB).
– WORKS LIKE MAGIC: Compatible with always up-to-date Magician Software for firmware updates, encryption, and health monitoring.
– WORLD’S NO. 1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: In-house production of all firmware and components ensures quality and reliability.
Pros:
– Unmatched sequential and random performance with PCIe 5.0.
– Significantly improved power efficiency despite the massive speed increase.
– Ideal for future-proofing your system and handling the most intensive workloads.
– Excellent thermal management to maintain peak performance.
Cons:
– Requires a PCIe 5.0 compatible motherboard and CPU, which are newer and more expensive.
– Likely the highest price point among the internal SSDs listed.
– Overkill for average users; benefits are most pronounced in professional or extreme enthusiast scenarios.
User Impressions:
Early adopters and performance enthusiasts are blown away by the 9100 PRO’s sheer speed, noting how it completely eliminates bottlenecks in their most demanding workflows. They appreciate Samsung’s continued innovation and the drive’s ability to maintain high performance even under sustained loads.
Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4×4 |
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD aims to strike a perfect balance between cutting-edge performance and broader compatibility. While offering blazing PCIe Gen 4×4 speeds, it also supports PCIe 5.0 x2, making it a versatile choice for a wider range of modern systems. This drive is designed for users who need a significant performance uplift for large file transfers, fast boot times, and responsive applications without necessarily needing the absolute top-tier price tag of a PRO model.
Key Features:
– GROUNDBREAKING READ/WRITE SPEEDS: Latest NAND memory boosts sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.
– LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY: Harness full power with Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0’s enhanced large-file performance, available in 4TB.
– EXCEPTIONAL THERMAL CONTROL: Efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller utilizes less power while maintaining performance, preventing overheating.
– OPTIMIZED PERFORMANCE: Compatible with PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2, providing more bandwidth and higher data processing.
– NEVER MISS AN UPDATE: Magician Software provides firmware updates, extra encryption, and continuous drive health monitoring.
Pros:
– Excellent performance for a PCIe 4.0 drive, offering substantial speed improvements over older generations.
– Versatile compatibility with both PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 platforms.
– Efficient thermal management keeps the drive cool under load.
– Great value proposition for high-speed storage.
Cons:
– While supporting PCIe 5.0, it only utilizes two lanes (x2), meaning it won’t hit the full speeds of dedicated PCIe 5.0 x4 drives like the 9100 PRO.
– Not as fast as the flagship 990 PRO or 9100 PRO models.
User Impressions:
Users find the 990 EVO Plus to be an excellent upgrade, providing a noticeable boost in system responsiveness and file transfer speeds. They appreciate its robust performance for its price point and its ability to handle demanding applications without breaking a sweat.
SAMSUNG 870 EVO 4TB 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD
Sometimes, you don’t need the absolute fastest NVMe drive; you need dependable, high-capacity storage that’s incredibly reliable and compatible with a vast array of systems. The SAMSUNG 870 EVO 4TB is exactly that. As a 2.5-inch SATA III internal SSD, it’s the all-star of traditional form factors, maximizing the SATA interface limit to deliver consistently strong performance for everything from everyday computing to intensive 8K video processing, making it a fantastic choice for laptop upgrades, older desktop systems, or as a robust secondary storage drive.
Key Features:
– THE SSD ALL-STAR: Indisputable performance, reliability, and compatibility built upon Samsung’s pioneering technology.
– EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE: Maximizes SATA interface limit to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds.
– INDUSTRY DEFINING RELIABILITY: Handles demands of every task with up to 2,400 TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance.
– MORE COMPATIBLE THAN EVER: Compatibility tested for major host systems and applications, including chipsets, motherboards, NAS, and video recording devices.
Pros:
– Excellent reliability and endurance, making it a durable long-term storage solution.
– Broad compatibility with almost any system supporting a 2.5-inch drive bay and SATA III connection.
– Consistently high performance within the limits of the SATA III interface.
– More affordable than NVMe counterparts, offering great value for its capacity and reliability.
Cons:
– Limited by the SATA III interface (max 600 MB/s), significantly slower than any NVMe drive.
– Not suitable for users prioritizing the absolute fastest load times or data transfer speeds.
User Impressions:
Customers consistently praise the 870 EVO for its rock-solid reliability and its ability to breathe new life into older systems. Many highlight its ease of installation and its perfect fit as a primary boot drive or a large-capacity storage solution for games and media on systems without M.2 slots.
SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 4TB External Solid State Drive
For those who need serious storage on the go, the SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD 4TB is a game-changer. This external solid-state drive is designed for creators, explorers, and anyone who needs fast, durable, and secure access to their data away from their main machine. With its compact design and robust build, it’s perfect for quickly transferring large files, backing up your work on location, or even recording high-resolution video directly from your camera or mobile device. This is a truly versatile 4TB Samsung SSD for mobility.
Key Features:
– MADE FOR THE MAKERS: Delivers fast speeds and durable features for video editing, photography, and backups.
– SHARE IDEAS IN A FLASH: PCIe NVMe technology brings fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, almost twice as fast as the T5.
– ALWAYS MAKE THE SAVE: Compact design with massive 4TB capacity to save large working files, game data, and more.
– ADAPTS TO EVERY NEED: Extensive compatibility with PCs, mobile phones, and various devices for heavy-duty application usage.
– HI RESOLUTION VIDEO RECORDING: Record Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fps) videos directly from cameras or mobile devices (e.g., iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps).
– ALL FOR THE SHOT: Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet with a solid aluminum unibody construction.
– WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: Performance and reliability from Samsung’s in-house produced components.
Pros:
– Extremely portable and durable, designed for on-the-go use.
– Fast read/write speeds for an external drive, significantly quicker than traditional external HDDs.
– Wide compatibility across multiple devices, including cameras and mobile phones.
– Excellent shock resistance for data protection.
Cons:
– While fast for an external drive, it’s slower than internal NVMe SSDs.
– Relies on USB connectivity, meaning actual speeds can vary depending on the USB port version.
User Impressions:
Users love the T7 for its compact size, robust build, and impressive speeds, making it ideal for travel and fieldwork. Content creators particularly value its ability to record high-res video directly, simplifying their workflow. Its reliability and ease of use are frequently praised.
Conclusion
Choosing the best 4TB Samsung SSD ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you’re building a cutting-edge PC and demand the fastest speeds possible, the Samsung 9100 PRO (PCIe 5.0) or 990 PRO (PCIe 4.0) are your go-to internal options. For a balance of speed and value in an internal drive, the 990 EVO Plus offers a compelling package. If compatibility and rock-solid reliability in a traditional form factor are your priority, the 870 EVO SATA SSD is a legendary performer. And for those who need high-speed, portable storage, the SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD is an unbeatable companion.
Regardless of your choice, investing in a Samsung 4TB SSD means you’re getting world-class performance, reliability, and the peace of mind that comes from the world’s leading flash memory brand. Upgrade your storage today and experience the difference!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why should I choose a 4TB Samsung SSD over other capacities or brands?
A1: A 4TB capacity offers an excellent balance between ample storage for large game libraries, multimedia files, and professional projects, and a manageable price point. Samsung SSDs are renowned for their reliability, top-tier performance, and advanced features (like Magician software and thermal management), making them a premium choice in the market.
Q2: What’s the main difference between PCIe NVMe and SATA SSDs?
A2: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs connect directly to the motherboard’s PCIe lanes, offering significantly higher bandwidth and thus much faster read/write speeds (in the thousands of MB/s). SATA (Serial ATA) SSDs connect via a SATA port and are limited to around 550-600 MB/s, making them slower but often more affordable and compatible with older systems.
Q3: Is a PCIe 5.0 SSD like the 9100 PRO worth it for a regular user or gamer?
A3: For the average user or even most gamers, a PCIe 4.0 SSD like the 990 PRO or 990 EVO Plus offers more than enough speed for daily tasks and even demanding games. PCIe 5.0 drives are primarily beneficial for professionals handling extremely large files, high-resolution video editing, or cutting-edge AI workloads where every millisecond counts. They also require a compatible, newer motherboard and CPU, adding to the overall cost.
Q4: Can I use an internal M.2 NVMe SSD in my laptop?
A4: Many modern laptops support M.2 NVMe SSDs, but you’ll need to check your specific laptop model’s specifications. Laptops typically have one or two M.2 slots. Ensure the slot supports the correct physical size (e.g., 2280) and interface (PCIe Gen 3, Gen 4, or Gen 5).
Q5: What is the Samsung Magician Software, and why is it useful?
A5: Samsung Magician is a proprietary software suite designed to manage and optimize your Samsung SSD. It allows you to monitor drive health, check performance benchmarks, perform secure erase, update firmware, and optimize settings for better performance and longevity. It’s a valuable tool for maintaining your SSD.
Q6: How do I install an internal SSD?
A6:
* For M.2 NVMe SSDs: Locate an available M.2 slot on your motherboard. Insert the SSD at an angle, then gently push it down and secure it with a small screw.
* For 2.5-inch SATA SSDs: Mount the SSD into an available 2.5-inch drive bay in your PC case. Connect a SATA data cable from the SSD to your motherboard and a SATA power cable from your power supply to the SSD.
Always remember to back up your data and consult your motherboard or laptop manual for specific installation instructions.
Q7: Is an external SSD good for gaming?
A7: An external SSD like the Samsung T7 can be excellent for gaming, especially for playing games from an external drive on consoles (like PlayStation or Xbox) or PCs where internal storage is limited. While slightly slower than internal NVMe drives, they still offer significantly faster load times than traditional external hard drives.
Q8: What does TBW mean for SSDs?
A8: TBW stands for Terabytes Written. It’s an endurance rating that indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the SSD over its lifespan before its performance or reliability might degrade. A higher TBW rating means the drive is designed to last longer under heavy write workloads. Samsung SSDs typically have very high TBW ratings, ensuring long-term durability.