Thinking about giving your computer a serious speed boost and a ton of storage space? You’re in the right place! A 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD is pretty much the gold standard for high-performance storage these days, offering mind-blowing speeds that traditional hard drives (and even older SATA SSDs) can only dream of. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a video editor, a content creator, or just someone who hates waiting for files to load, upgrading to one of these bad boys can totally transform your computing experience.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best 4tb m.2 nvme ssd for your specific needs? It can feel a bit overwhelming, right? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, diving deep into the top contenders to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore their standout features, pros, cons, and what real users are saying.
Let’s jump in and find the perfect storage solution to unleash your system’s full potential!
What Makes a 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD a Game-Changer?
Before we dive into the reviews, let’s quickly chat about why a 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD is such a hot commodity. These compact drives slot directly into your motherboard (M.2 form factor) and communicate via the lightning-fast PCIe interface using the NVMe protocol. This combo means incredible data transfer speeds, significantly reducing load times for games, applications, and massive files. And with a generous 4TB capacity, you’ll have plenty of room for your operating system, a massive game library, high-res video projects, and all your important files without constantly worrying about running out of space.
Our Top 7 Best 4TB M.2 NVMe SSDs Reviewed
Here are our handpicked selections for the best 4tb m.2 nvme ssd drives currently available, each bringing something unique to the table.
1. Crucial P310 4TB PCIe Gen4 2280 NVMe M.2 SSD
The Crucial P310 stands out as a solid performer for those looking for an efficient yet capable Gen4 NVMe SSD. While it might not hit the absolute peak speeds of some high-end drives, its real strength lies in its incredible power efficiency. This makes it an excellent choice for laptops or systems where conserving battery life or keeping temperatures down is a priority, without sacrificing the significant performance uplift of PCIe Gen4.
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Key Features:
- Provides up to 40% better performance-to-power ratio compared to previous Gen4 SSDs.
- PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe technology.
- M.2 2280 form factor.
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Pros:
- Excellent power efficiency, great for laptops.
- Good performance for a Gen4 drive at its price point.
- Reliable Crucial brand backing.
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Cons:
- Not the fastest Gen4 drive on the market.
- Specific read/write speeds not provided in snippet.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the P310 for its smooth performance in everyday tasks and noticeable speed improvements, especially appreciating its low power consumption which helps extend battery life in portable devices.
2. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4×4
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus brings groundbreaking performance to the table, making it a fantastic choice for users who demand serious speed for large file transfers and intensive tasks. Featuring the latest NAND memory and intelligent TurboWrite technology, this drive pushes sequential read/write speeds to impressive levels. What’s more, its exceptional thermal control, thanks to a nickel-coated controller, ensures it stays cool under pressure, all while being power-efficient.
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Key Features:
- Groundbreaking sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.
- Intelligent TurboWrite2.0 for enhanced large-file performance.
- Exceptional thermal control with efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller.
- Optimized for PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility.
- Supported by always up-to-date Magician Software for drive health and updates.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast read/write speeds for rapid data handling.
- Excellent thermal management helps maintain peak performance.
- Future-proof compatibility with PCIe 5.0 x2.
- Samsung’s Magician software is highly regarded for maintenance.
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Cons:
- Might be overkill for basic users (but great for enthusiasts!).
- Price point may be higher than entry-level Gen4 drives.
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User Impressions: Customers rave about the raw speed and seamless performance of the 990 EVO Plus, noting significant reductions in loading times for games and professional applications. The reliability and bundled software are also frequently highlighted.
3. Crucial P3 Plus 4TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2 SSD
The Crucial P3 Plus is an excellent value-oriented PCIe Gen4 SSD that doesn’t skimp on performance. It offers a substantial upgrade over Gen3 NVMe drives, with sequential reads up to 5000MB/s, making it up to 43% faster than even the quickest Gen3 SSDs. This drive hits a sweet spot for users looking for a significant speed boost and ample storage without breaking the bank, all while promising extended longevity and reliability.
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Key Features:
- NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology with up to 5000MB/s sequential reads.
- Random read/write 650K/900K IOPS.
- Performs up to 43% faster than the fastest Gen3 NVMe SSDs.
- MTTF (Mean Time To Failure) greater than 1.5 million hours for longevity.
- Backward compatible with Gen3 systems.
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Pros:
- Great price-to-performance ratio for a Gen4 SSD.
- Significant speed improvement over Gen3 drives.
- High endurance rating for long-term reliability.
- Backward compatibility ensures broader system support.
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Cons:
- Not the top-tier speed compared to high-end Gen4 drives.
- May require a motherboard heatsink for sustained heavy loads.
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User Impressions: Many users find the P3 Plus to be a fantastic upgrade, delivering noticeable speed increases for everyday use, gaming, and productivity. Its affordability combined with solid Gen4 performance makes it a popular choice.
4. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a beast of a drive, specifically engineered for gamers and workstation users who demand nothing less than top-tier performance. With insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, it delivers ridiculously short load times, ensuring you’re always ahead of the game. Its optional heatsink version is a massive plus for maintaining peak performance during intense gaming sessions, and features like Game Mode 2.0 via the WD_BLACK Dashboard further optimize your experience.
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Key Features:
- Top-tier performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- Built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND for robust capacity.
- Optional heatsink version available for sustained peak performance.
- Downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard for monitoring, RGB customization, and Game Mode 2.0.
- Future-forward features: Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
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Pros:
- One of the fastest Gen4 SSDs, perfect for competitive gaming.
- Optional heatsink effectively prevents thermal throttling.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard offers useful optimization tools.
- Large capacities allow for extensive game libraries.
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Cons:
- Premium price tag reflects its high-end performance.
- Dashboard software is Windows-only.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently report dramatic improvements in game load times and overall system responsiveness. The effectiveness of the heatsink and the utility of the WD_BLACK Dashboard are frequently highlighted as major positives.
5. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD
The Samsung 990 PRO is a powerhouse, often considered the gold standard for PCIe 4.0 performance, pushing near-max speeds with its lightning-fast capabilities. Designed for hardcore gamers and tech enthusiasts, it offers read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, making it ideal for heavy computing, rapid data analysis, and professional video editing. This drive also boasts impressive power efficiency, delivering up to 50% improved performance per watt over its predecessor.
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Key Features:
- Near-max PCIe 4.0 performance with speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
- Available in capacities up to 4TB.
- Up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO.
- Comes from the world’s #1 Flash Memory Brand.
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Pros:
- Among the fastest PCIe 4.0 SSDs available, top-tier performance.
- Exceptional for gaming, content creation, and data-intensive tasks.
- Excellent power efficiency for a high-performance drive.
- Samsung’s reputation for reliability and quality.
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Cons:
- Premium pricing.
- Heatsink not included by default (though some bundles offer it).
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User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the speed and responsiveness of the 990 PRO, describing it as a “game-changer” for their workflows and gaming setups. Its robust performance and Samsung’s strong brand reputation instill confidence.
6. WD_BLACK 4TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN7100 is tailored for serious gamers, providing robust PCIe Gen4 performance that’s both fast and power-efficient. With impressive read speeds up to 7,250MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900MB/s, it delivers significant performance gains over previous generations. Crucially, it’s built with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, offering up to 100% more power efficiency, making it an ideal choice for portable setups without compromising on storage capacity or speed.
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Key Features:
- Speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- Up to 35% faster performance than previous drives.
- Designed for serious gamers with PCIe Gen4 interface and TLC 3D NAND.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation, ideal for portable devices.
- High endurance of up to 2,400TBW (for 4TB model).
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for gaming and demanding applications.
- Superior power efficiency, perfect for laptops and handhelds.
- High endurance rating for long-term reliability.
- Strong performance uplift from prior generations.
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Cons:
- Not as widely known as the SN850X in the gaming community.
- Specific 4TB speed might vary slightly from 1-2TB models (as noted in features).
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the SN7100’s strong gaming performance and the fact that it runs cool, making it a great fit for space-constrained laptops or consoles where thermal management is key. The generous storage capacity is also a big plus.
7. fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD
The fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD steps onto the scene with extreme PCIe Gen 4 performance, featuring a PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology to deliver sequential read/write speeds of up to 7300/6300 MB/s. It’s not just for PCs; this drive is designed with PS5 compatibility and DirectStorage in mind, making it a powerful upgrade for console gamers too. Its unique thermal control solution, involving a graphite coated copper foil and aluminum foil layer, helps maintain peak performance even during intense workloads.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s.
- Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage for enhanced gaming.
- Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
- Efficient thermal control with graphite coated copper foil and aluminum foil layer.
- 5-year service and lifetime technical support.
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Pros:
- High-speed performance rivaling top-tier drives.
- Excellent compatibility with PS5 and DirectStorage.
- Effective thermal design helps prevent throttling.
- Strong warranty and customer support from a brand with over 20 years of experience.
- Great value proposition for its performance.
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Cons:
- Brand recognition might be lower than established players for some users.
- Not compatible with Mac OS.
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User Impressions: Users are pleasantly surprised by the fanxiang SSD’s impressive speeds and smooth performance, especially considering its competitive pricing. PS5 owners, in particular, laud its seamless integration and significant improvement in game loading times. The thoughtful thermal design also receives positive comments.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect 4TB NVMe Match
Choosing the best 4tb m.2 nvme ssd really boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you’re a hardcore gamer or professional content creator who demands the absolute fastest speeds and don’t mind spending a bit more, drives like the Samsung 990 PRO or WD_BLACK SN850X are clear winners. They offer peak PCIe Gen4 performance and features designed for intense workloads.
For those looking for an excellent balance of speed, efficiency, and value, the Samsung 990 EVO Plus, Crucial P3 Plus, or WD_BLACK SN7100 could be perfect. They deliver fantastic Gen4 performance for everyday use and gaming without the premium price tag of the absolute top-tier options. And if power efficiency is your main concern, especially for a laptop, the Crucial P310 is a solid, energy-conscious choice. Don’t forget the fanxiang option if you’re seeking high performance and PS5 compatibility at a competitive price point.
No matter which one you pick, upgrading to a 4TB NVMe SSD will undeniably elevate your system’s performance, making everything from booting up to loading massive files feel incredibly snappy. Happy computing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is an M.2 NVMe SSD and why is it so fast?
A1: An M.2 NVMe SSD is a type of solid-state drive that uses a compact M.2 form factor and communicates with your computer via the NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) protocol over the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interface. This combination allows for incredibly high data transfer speeds because it bypasses older SATA limitations, enabling direct communication with your CPU, significantly reducing latency and boosting throughput.
Q2: Why should I choose a 4TB capacity NVMe SSD?
A2: A 4TB capacity provides ample space for most users, including gamers with large game libraries, video editors working with 4K or 8K footage, and professionals dealing with extensive datasets. It means less time managing storage, fewer uninstalls, and more room for everything you need, all on one lightning-fast drive.
Q3: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen3, Gen4, and Gen5 for NVMe SSDs?
A3: These refer to different generations of the PCIe interface, each offering roughly double the bandwidth of the previous one.
* PCIe Gen3: Common in older systems, offers speeds up to around 3,500 MB/s.
* PCIe Gen4: The current standard for high-performance systems, delivering speeds up to around 7,500 MB/s. Most of the drives in our “best 4tb m.2 nvme ssd” list are Gen4.
* PCIe Gen5: The latest generation, offering theoretical speeds up to around 14,000 MB/s, though drives are still emerging and motherboards need to support it.
Higher generations mean faster potential data transfer, but your motherboard and CPU must support that generation to unlock its full potential.
Q4: Do I need a heatsink for my 4TB NVMe SSD?
A4: For most general use, a heatsink might not be strictly necessary, especially if your motherboard has good airflow or integrated M.2 heatsinks. However, for sustained heavy workloads like gaming, large file transfers, or video editing, a heatsink is highly recommended. High-performance NVMe SSDs can generate significant heat, and excessive temperatures can lead to “thermal throttling,” where the drive slows down to prevent damage, negating its speed benefits.
Q5: Is a 4TB NVMe SSD compatible with PS5?
A5: Yes, many PCIe Gen4 4TB NVMe SSDs are compatible with the PlayStation 5, provided they meet Sony’s specific speed and size requirements (typically at least 5,500 MB/s sequential read speed and the M.2 2280 form factor). Check the specific product’s compatibility (e.g., the fanxiang or WD_BLACK SN850X mentioned above) and refer to Sony’s official PS5 SSD installation guide.
Q6: How easy is it to install an M.2 NVMe SSD?
A6: Installing an M.2 NVMe SSD is generally quite straightforward. Most modern motherboards have dedicated M.2 slots. You typically just need to open your PC case, locate the M.2 slot, insert the SSD at an angle, push it down, and secure it with a small screw. Many motherboards now come with tool-less installation clips. Always refer to your motherboard’s manual for precise instructions.
Q7: What’s the expected lifespan of a 4TB NVMe SSD?
A7: NVMe SSDs have a very long lifespan, much longer than most users will ever reach. Lifespan is often measured by “TBW” (Terabytes Written), which indicates how much data can be written to the drive before it might start to degrade, and “MTTF” (Mean Time To Failure), usually in millions of hours. A 4TB SSD with 2,400 TBW, for example, means you could write 2,400 terabytes of data to it over its lifetime. For average users, this translates to many years, if not decades, of reliable use.