So, you’ve got your hands on the mighty PS5 Pro, ready to dive into stunning 8K gaming and lightning-fast frame rates. But wait – that internal storage fills up quicker than you can say “installing update.” With game sizes constantly ballooning, 1TB just doesn’t cut it anymore. That’s where a massive 4TB SSD comes in, transforming your gaming experience by giving you all the space you could ever need for your growing library.
Finding the Crucial best 4TB SSD for PS5 Pro can be a bit tricky, especially with so many options out there. You need speed, reliability, and of course, ample capacity. While we’re focusing on some fantastic Crucial options, we’ll also highlight a top-tier alternative to ensure you’re getting the absolute best recommendation for your gaming beast. Whether you’re looking for an internal NVMe drive to directly expand your console’s playable storage or a high-speed external solution for archiving games, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into our top picks that will supercharge your PS5 Pro!
Understanding PS5 Pro Storage: Internal vs. External
Before we jump into the reviews, it’s crucial to understand the difference. For directly playing PS5 Pro games with optimal performance, you must use an internal M.2 NVMe SSD that meets Sony’s specifications. External portable SSDs are fantastic for storing PS5 and PS4 games (archiving them) and playing PS4 games directly, but they cannot run PS5 Pro games. Keep this in mind as we look at both types of drives!
Product Reviews
1. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
This portable powerhouse is an excellent choice for gamers who need robust, high-speed external storage. While it won’t run PS5 Pro games directly, its impressive 1050MB/s speeds make it perfect for archiving your massive PS5 game library and playing PS4 titles without a hitch. Its rugged build means you can take your games on the go or rest assured it’ll withstand accidental bumps around your console.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and write speeds.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Android, and more via USB-C/USB-A.
- Security: Includes SSD password protection.
- Bonus Software: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Extremely durable and portable.
- Excellent speeds for external storage needs.
- Wide device compatibility.
- Data protection features are a plus.
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Cons:
- Not suitable for directly playing PS5 Pro games.
- Speeds are lower than NVMe internal drives.
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User Impressions: Users love its compact size, robust build quality, and consistent performance for transferring large files and backing up game data. Many appreciate its reliability for travel and everyday use.
See it on Amazon here
2. Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read
Stepping up the speed game, the Crucial X10 Pro offers a significant leap in performance for a portable SSD. With speeds reaching 2100MB/s, it’s blisteringly fast for an external drive, making game transfers between your console and the drive incredibly swift. This makes it an outstanding option for quickly moving your PS5 games on and off your console’s internal storage, and it excels at running PS4 games. It truly stands out as a high-performance external Crucial best 4TB SSD for PS5 Pro archiving.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Connects to Windows, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox, and more via USB-C/USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Ample 4TB for high-resolution files and games.
- Bonus Software: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds for a portable drive.
- Highly durable and travel-friendly.
- Great for quickly offloading PS5 games.
- Robust security features.
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Cons:
- Still an external drive, so not for direct PS5 Pro game playback.
- Premium price point for a portable SSD.
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the X10 Pro’s raw speed, citing significant time savings during file transfers. Its sturdy design is also a frequent highlight, making it a favorite for content creators and gamers alike.
See it on Amazon here
3. Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s Read (Bonus Software)
This is essentially the same high-performing Crucial X10 Pro model as above, but often bundled with slightly different software offerings. It retains the blistering 2,100MB/s read speeds and rugged durability, making it an excellent choice for anyone needing fast, reliable external storage for their PS5 Pro game backups. The additional software can add extra value, especially if you also dabble in creative work.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox, and more via USB-C/USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Compact 4TB SSD for all your files.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+, one month of Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Top-tier external SSD speeds.
- Enhanced software bundle for added utility.
- Excellent durability and portability.
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Cons:
- Price remains a consideration.
- Not for internal PS5 Pro game installation.
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User Impressions: Users value the identical high performance of this model, often highlighting the usefulness of the extra software like Adobe Acrobat Pro alongside the reliable storage. It’s seen as a versatile tool for both gaming and productivity.
See it on Amazon here
4. Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X10 is a fantastic all-rounder for anyone seeking an ultra-fast, robust, and capacious external SSD. Designed with gamers and students in mind, its 2,100MB/s read speeds ensure swift data transfers, which is ideal for managing your PS5 Pro game library or running demanding PS4 titles. Its enhanced IP65 dust and water resistance, along with superior drop protection, means it’s built to survive almost anything, making it a worry-free companion for gaming on the go or at home.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds (writes not explicitly stated but expected to be high).
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Effortless connection with Windows, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Android, and more via USB-C/USB-A.
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Ample 4TB for all your digital content.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Extremely high speeds for an external drive.
- Superior durability and weather resistance.
- Perfect for archiving PS5 games and playing PS4 titles.
- Generous 4TB storage.
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Cons:
- Not an internal drive for PS5 Pro.
- Can be a significant investment.
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User Impressions: Gamers and travelers rave about the X10’s incredible resilience and speed. It’s frequently praised for its ability to handle rigorous use while maintaining fast performance, making it a reliable choice for active users.
See it on Amazon here
5. Crucial P310 2280 4TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe Gaming PS5 SSD
Now we’re talking about internal storage that directly fits into your PS5 Pro’s expansion slot! The Crucial P310 is a strong contender for the Crucial best 4TB SSD for PS5 Pro that allows you to install and play PS5 games directly. With impressive PCIe 4.0 performance, it significantly cuts down on game load times and system bootups. This drive is designed to keep up with the demands of next-gen gaming, offering a seamless and responsive experience. It’s a game-changer for expanding your PS5 Pro’s playable storage.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 4TB SSD: Ample room for countless AAA games, apps, and media.
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with desktops, laptops, and PlayStation 5.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3, improving real-world task performance.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance.
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Pros:
- Directly playable for PS5 Pro games.
- Exceeds PS5 speed requirements.
- Massive 4TB capacity.
- Reliable Crucial (Micron) quality.
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Cons:
- May require a separate heatsink purchase for optimal PS5 Pro use (though some versions might include one, always check).
- Installation involves opening the console.
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User Impressions: PS5 users are thrilled with the P310’s speed and reliability, reporting noticeably faster load times and smoother gameplay. Its generous capacity is a huge bonus, allowing them to install many more demanding titles.
See it on Amazon here
6. SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2, Speeds Up
While our main focus is the Crucial best 4TB SSD for PS5 Pro, we simply couldn’t leave out the Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink. This is a titan among M.2 NVMe SSDs, often considered one of the best for the PS5 Pro. With speeds pushing the very limits of PCIe 4.0, it delivers an unparalleled gaming experience, virtually eliminating load screens. Crucially, it comes with an integrated heatsink, which is essential for maintaining optimal performance within the PS5 Pro’s internal environment. If you’re looking for the absolute top-tier internal expansion and aren’t strictly limited to Crucial, this is an undeniable champion.
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Key Features:
- Blazing Speed: Near max PCIe 4.0 performance with up to 7450/6900 MB/s read/write speeds.
- Integrated Heatsink: Ultra-slim design for effective heat dissipation, crucial for PS5 Pro.
- Next-Level Performance: Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
- Massive 4TB Capacity: Store all your games, videos, and data.
- PS5 Compatible: Designed with PS5 in mind, ensuring perfect fit and performance.
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Pros:
- One of the fastest internal SSDs available.
- Integrated heatsink simplifies PS5 Pro installation.
- Exceptionally reliable and durable.
- Dramatically reduces load times.
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Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Not from the “Crucial” brand (if that’s a strict requirement, though it’s a superior option).
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently hail the 990 PRO as a phenomenal upgrade, praising its incredible speed and the convenience of the pre-installed heatsink. It’s widely regarded as the go-to choice for serious PS5 Pro storage expansion.
See it on Amazon here
7. Crucial X9 Pro for Mac 4TB Portable SSD, Up to
This variant of the Crucial X9 Pro is specifically optimized for Apple’s ecosystem but remains fully compatible with a wide range of devices, including your PS5 Pro. It brings the same reliable 1050MB/s speeds and rugged, IP55-rated durability. For PS5 Pro users, this means a fantastic external option for archiving games, keeping your internal drive free for active titles. The Mac optimization ensures seamless integration if you’re also an Apple user, making it a versatile storage solution.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and write speeds.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Optimized for Apple (APFS file system), works with iMac, MacBook, iPad Pro, iPhone 16. Also compatible with Windows, PS4, PS5, Xbox, and more.
- Security: Includes SSD password protection.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent external archiving solution for PS5 Pro.
- Optimized for Mac users, increasing versatility.
- Durable and portable design.
- Good security features.
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Cons:
- Not designed for direct PS5 Pro game playback.
- Speeds are moderate compared to internal NVMe drives.
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User Impressions: Mac users particularly appreciate the APFS optimization, noting smooth performance across their Apple devices. PS5 owners find it a dependable and fast external drive for managing their game libraries, highlighting its sturdy build.
See it on Amazon here
What to Look For When Buying a 4TB SSD for PS5 Pro
Choosing the right SSD can feel overwhelming, but here’s a quick guide to simplify things for your PS5 Pro:
- Internal vs. External:
- Internal M.2 NVMe SSDs: Crucial for playing PS5 Pro games directly from the expanded storage. These drives go inside the console. Look for PCIe Gen4 speeds.
- External Portable SSDs: Great for storing (archiving) PS5 Pro games and playing PS4 games directly. They connect via USB. Cannot run PS5 Pro games.
- Speed is King (for Internal): Sony requires a minimum read speed of 5,500 MB/s for internal PS5 SSDs. All our recommended internal drives exceed this, ensuring optimal performance. Faster is always better for next-gen games!
- Heatsink (Crucial for Internal): An M.2 NVMe SSD for the PS5 Pro needs a heatsink to prevent thermal throttling and maintain peak performance. Some drives come with one pre-installed (like the Samsung 990 PRO), while others (like the Crucial P310) might require a separate purchase. Don’t skip this!
- Compatibility: Ensure the drive is listed as compatible with the PS5 (and by extension, the PS5 Pro). Most modern PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 SSDs fit the bill.
- Durability (for External): If you’re opting for a portable SSD, consider features like water/dust resistance and drop protection if you plan to move it around.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use an external 4TB SSD to play PS5 Pro games directly?
A: No. External SSDs can store PS5 Pro games (archive them), but you must transfer them back to your console’s internal storage (either the original drive or an installed M.2 NVMe SSD) to play them. You can play PS4 games directly from an external SSD.
Q2: What are the PS5 Pro’s internal SSD requirements for a 4TB upgrade?
A: The PS5 Pro requires a PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. It should be a 22mm wide (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110 form factor) drive and include a heatsink.
Q3: Do I really need a heatsink for my PS5 Pro’s internal SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely! A heatsink is crucial for dissipating heat generated by high-performance NVMe SSDs, especially under heavy gaming loads. Without one, your SSD could overheat, leading to performance throttling and potentially damaging the drive.
Q4: Is a 4TB SSD overkill for my PS5 Pro?
A: While 1TB or 2TB might suffice for some, 4TB is becoming the ideal capacity for serious gamers. With AAA titles often exceeding 100GB, and many future games likely to be even larger, 4TB gives you ample room for dozens of games without constant uninstalling and reinstalling. It’s a great future-proof investment.
Q5: How much storage do I really need for my PS5 Pro?
A: It depends on your gaming habits. If you play a few games at a time, 1-2TB might be fine. If you love having a large library installed, particularly with many large AAA titles, 4TB is highly recommended to avoid storage anxiety.
Q6: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs?
A: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs connect directly to the motherboard via PCIe lanes, offering significantly faster speeds (thousands of MB/s) ideal for modern gaming. SATA SSDs connect via a SATA interface and are much slower (hundreds of MB/s). The PS5 Pro requires NVMe.
Q7: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5 Pro?
A: Installing an M.2 SSD involves opening your PS5 Pro’s side panel, unscrewing the M.2 expansion slot cover, inserting the SSD into the slot, securing it with a screw, and then reassembling. Sony provides detailed instructions, and it’s generally a straightforward process that doesn’t void your warranty if done correctly.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PS5 Pro with a 4TB SSD is one of the best investments you can make to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you choose a high-speed internal drive like the Crucial P310 (or the exceptional Samsung 990 PRO) for direct gameplay, or opt for a lightning-fast external drive like the Crucial X10 Pro for robust game archiving, you’re looking at significantly more storage and often faster load times.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow down the Crucial best 4TB SSD for PS5 Pro options, making your decision much easier. Say goodbye to storage limitations and hello to an expansive game library ready whenever you are! Happy gaming!