Hey there, PlayStation warriors! Ever found yourself staring at that pesky “Storage Full” message on your PS5, wondering how you’re going to fit another epic title? Or maybe you’re just tired of deleting beloved games to make room for new adventures? You’re not alone! The PS5’s built-in 825GB SSD (with only about 667GB usable) fills up fast, especially with today’s massive game files.
That’s where a high-capacity, lightning-fast M.2 NVMe SSD comes into play. Upgrading your PS5’s storage is a total game-changer, not just giving you more room but often improving load times for an even smoother experience. If you’re looking for the best 4TB SSD for PS5 to truly future-proof your gaming library, you’ve come to the right place.
A 4TB SSD offers a colossal amount of space, letting you keep dozens, even a hundred, of your favorite games installed and ready to play. No more agonizing decisions about what to uninstall! We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top picks for a 4TB SSD for your PS5, ensuring they meet Sony’s strict speed and size requirements.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect storage upgrade for your beloved console!
Our Top Picks for the Best 4TB SSD for PS5
1. SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB
The Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD is an absolute powerhouse, designed to deliver near-max PCIe 4.0 performance for intense gaming sessions and heavy data workloads. What truly makes it stand out for PS5 users is its integrated, ultra-slim heatsink, specifically engineered to dissipate heat effectively and prevent thermal throttling, ensuring your console runs smoothly even during marathon gaming. This drive isn’t just about raw speed; it’s about sustained, reliable performance that lets you play without limits.
Key Features:
– Blazing speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s read/write.
– Integrated, ultra-slim heatsink for superior thermal control.
– Over 55% improvement in random performance vs. 980 PRO.
– Available in capacities up to 4TB, perfect for massive game libraries.
– Designed with PS5 compatibility in mind, adhering to PCI-SIG D8 standard.
Pros:
– Exceptional speed for lightning-fast loading and game performance.
– Built-in heatsink simplifies installation and ensures optimal cooling.
– Reliability and brand reputation from Samsung, a leader in flash memory.
– Ideal for heavy computing and demanding gaming.
Cons:
– Premium price point due to top-tier performance and branding.
– Might be overkill for users who don’t need the absolute fastest speeds.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the 990 PRO for its impressive speed and hassle-free installation, especially with the included heatsink. Gamers report noticeably faster load times on their PS5, and the drive’s reliability is a common highlight, making it a favorite for those seeking peace of mind and peak performance.
See it on Amazon here
2. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PlayStation
If you’re all about guaranteed compatibility and peace of mind, the WD_BLACK SN850P is your go-to. This isn’t just any SSD; it’s the only officially licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, meaning you can plug it in and play without a single worry about whether it’ll work perfectly. Its specially optimized heatsink is tailor-made for the PS5’s M.2 slot, ensuring a snug fit and efficient cooling. Plus, it even comes with a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe – a sweet bonus for any gamer!
Key Features:
– Officially licensed by PlayStation for guaranteed PS5 compatibility.
– Optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5 console.
– Capacities up to 4TB, capable of storing up to 100 PS5 games.
– Blazing read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for seamless gameplay.
– Includes a 14-day PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe trial.
Pros:
– Unrivaled compatibility and easy installation with official licensing.
– Heatsink perfectly fits the PS5’s M.2 slot.
– Excellent speeds for reduced load times.
– Bonus PlayStation Plus trial is a nice added value.
Cons:
– Premium pricing, likely due to the official licensing.
– Performance might be marginally lower than some top-tier competitors, though still excellent.
User Impressions:
Gamers love the “set it and forget it” nature of the SN850P, appreciating the official licensing for an utterly worry-free installation. The included heatsink is frequently mentioned as a huge convenience, and users confirm that games load incredibly quickly directly from the drive, making it a favorite for ease of use and reliable performance.
See it on Amazon here
3. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a beast of an internal gaming SSD, pushing the envelope for performance on both PC and PS5. While not officially licensed like its SN850P sibling, its raw speed and advanced features make it a strong contender for the best 4TB SSD for PS5 if you’re comfortable with manual heatsink installation (or buying the heatsink version). It’s built for serious gamers who demand the absolute fastest load times and want to keep their entire game library on hand, with capacities soaring up to 8TB for the truly insatiable.
Key Features:
– Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s read, transforming load times.
– Available with an optional heatsink for peak performance under load.
– Built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND for robust storage.
– Features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM) for optimized performance.
– WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for drive health monitoring and RGB customization (heatsink versions).
Pros:
– Exceptional speed for ultra-fast game loading and system responsiveness.
– High capacities suitable for even the largest game collections.
– Advanced features for maintaining performance during intense sessions.
– Optional heatsink version simplifies PS5 compatibility.
Cons:
– Heatsink is optional, so ensure you pick the correct version for PS5.
– WD_BLACK Dashboard features are Windows-only, not applicable for PS5 use.
User Impressions:
Users consistently rave about the SN850X’s blistering speeds, noting a significant improvement in game load times. Many find it straightforward to install in their PS5, especially the heatsink version. The drive is often praised for its ability to handle demanding games without breaking a sweat, making it a top choice for performance-oriented gamers.
See it on Amazon here
4. fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD
The fanxiang S880E 4TB NVMe SSD is a fantastic option for gamers looking for extreme PCIe 4.0 performance without necessarily breaking the bank. Designed with hardcore gamers in mind, it’s fully compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage, promising faster loads for an immersive gaming experience. What’s neat is its thoughtful thermal design, incorporating a graphite-coated copper foil and aluminum foil layer to keep temperatures in check. This means sustained high performance even during the most graphically intensive gaming marathons.
Key Features:
– PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller with NVMe 2.0 technology.
– Sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s.
– Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage for faster game loads.
– Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
– Efficient thermal control via graphite coated copper foil and aluminum foil layer.
Pros:
– Excellent speed at a potentially more competitive price point.
– Effective passive thermal solution helps maintain performance.
– Strong compatibility with PS5 and gaming-specific technologies like DirectStorage.
– 5-year service for peace of mind.
Cons:
– Less established brand compared to Samsung or WD_BLACK, though promising.
– The included thermal solution might require an additional heatsink for optimal PS5 fit/performance, depending on the console’s internal conditions.
User Impressions:
Users are pleasantly surprised by the fanxiang S880E’s performance, often noting that it punches above its weight in terms of speed and stability. PS5 owners appreciate its compatibility and report smooth gameplay. The value proposition is a recurring theme, with many finding it an excellent alternative to more expensive brands.
See it on Amazon here
5. Fikwot FX991 M.2 SSD 4TB NVMe SSD M2 2280 PCIe
The Fikwot FX991 M.2 SSD 4TB offers lightning-fast performance, making it a compelling choice for a 4TB SSD PS5 upgrade. With impressive read/write speeds that easily hit 7300/6200 MB/s, it promises to make your PS5 (or PC) incredibly responsive. Fikwot has put a lot of thought into thermal management, equipping the FX991 with auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and power efficiency management, along with a high-conductivity graphite heatsink. This intelligent design ensures consistent top performance without overheating, extending the life of your device.
Key Features:
– NVMe protocol and PCIe Gen 4×4 specifications for top speeds.
– Max read/write speeds of 7300MB/s and 6200MB/s.
– Auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and power efficiency management.
– Equipped with a high-conductivity graphite heatsink.
– Supports HMB (Host Memory Buffer) and smart SLC cache for improved performance.
– Compatible with PS5, laptops, and desktop computers.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for rapid system and game loading.
– Intelligent thermal management keeps the drive cool and stable.
– HMB and SLC cache enhance multitasking and game performance.
– Comes with a 5-year service and high TBW rating.
Cons:
– Another lesser-known brand, which might be a consideration for some users.
– While it includes a graphite heatsink, some PS5 setups might still benefit from a more robust, aftermarket heatsink for ultimate peace of mind.
User Impressions:
Customers frequently highlight the Fikwot FX991’s impressive speed and smooth operation. PS5 users confirm easy installation and a noticeable improvement in game loading. The included thermal solutions are appreciated for their effectiveness, allowing the drive to maintain high performance even during extended play.
See it on Amazon here
6. Ediloca 4TB PS5 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Ediloca EN855 4TB PS5 SSD is purpose-built to dominate both PS5 and PC gaming performance, and it comes with an integrated heatsink, making it a super convenient pick for your console. Boasting PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe 1.4 technology, it delivers a powerful 7,400MB/s read and 6,400MB/s write, turbocharging bandwidth and slashing load times. What’s more, its integrated aluminum heatsink is designed to prevent thermal throttling, ensuring peak speeds even in the PS5’s slim slot or cramped PC cases. It even includes installation screws and a driver, a thoughtful touch for a truly plug-and-play experience.
Key Features:
– PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe 1.4 technology with 7,400/6,400 MB/s read/write speeds.
– Integrated aluminum heatsink for smart cooling and zero throttling.
– Compact M.2 2280 form factor, universally plug-and-play for PS5, laptops, and desktops.
– Utilizes 3D NAND technology and dynamic SLC cache for superior reliability.
– Includes instructions, screws, and a screwdriver for easy installation.
Pros:
– Outstanding speeds for a truly next-gen gaming experience.
– Integrated heatsink simplifies installation and ensures stable performance.
– High reliability and stability thanks to advanced NAND and controller tech.
– Thoughtful inclusion of installation tools.
– 5-year service and high TBW rating.
Cons:
– Brand recognition is still growing compared to industry giants.
– Performance might vary slightly based on specific system configurations.
User Impressions:
Users are genuinely impressed by the Ediloca EN855’s speed and its ability to keep cool under pressure. PS5 owners particularly appreciate the included heatsink and the straightforward installation process. Many consider it a strong value, offering top-tier performance at a competitive price, making it an excellent choice for expanding their PS5 storage.
See it on Amazon here
7. MOVE SPEED HB7450 4TB Internal Solid State Drive for PS5
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 is a formidable 4TB internal SSD designed to unleash your PS5’s full potential. With cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, it delivers impressive read/write speeds up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s, drastically cutting down game delays and system loading. It perfectly fits the PS5, laptops, and PCs in its M.2 2280 form factor. What’s unique here is the included 1mm graphene composite heat sink (not pre-installed), designed to drop chip temperatures significantly, preventing high-temperature slowdowns. Plus, it undergoes rigorous 80-hour testing, ensuring stability and a long service life.
Key Features:
– NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 high-speed interface with 7450/6500 MB/s read/write.
– Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptops, and PCs.
– Includes a 1mm graphene composite heatsink (not pre-installed) for strong cooling.
– Utilizes high-quality 3D NAND flash memory and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
– Undergoes rigorous 80-hour testing for stability and longevity.
– Comes with heatsink, screws, screwdriver, and user manual.
Pros:
– Extremely fast speeds, rivaling top-tier drives.
– Large capacity for extensive game libraries (up to 100 games on 4TB).
– Included graphene heatsink and installation tools add value.
– Rigorous testing ensures reliability and durability.
– Excellent customer service and warranty support.
Cons:
– Heatsink requires manual installation, which might be a minor hurdle for some.
– Brand is relatively new in the SSD market, though backed by strong R&D.
User Impressions:
Users frequently comment on the MOVE SPEED HB7450’s impressive performance, noting significant reductions in load times. The fact that it includes a heatsink and all necessary tools for installation is a big plus for PS5 owners. Many find it to be a reliable and high-value option, especially given its robust testing and customer support.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About PS5 SSDs
Q1: Why do I need an SSD for my PS5, and why 4TB?
A1: The PS5’s internal storage is quite limited (around 667GB usable). Modern games are huge, often 100GB or more, filling up that space quickly. An M.2 NVMe SSD allows you to expand your PS5’s storage, letting you download and keep far more games installed. A 4TB SSD provides massive capacity, essentially future-proofing your console for many years of gaming without constant deletions.
Q2: What kind of SSD does the PS5 use for expansion?
A2: The PS5 requires an M.2 NVMe SSD that supports PCIe Gen4 x4 technology. It must have a read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s, though faster is always better. The physical size (form factor) must also be M.2 2280. All the drives listed as the best 4TB SSD for PS5 in this article meet these criteria.
Q3: Is a heatsink necessary for a PS5 SSD?
A3: Yes, a heatsink is crucial! Sony specifically states that an M.2 SSD installed in the PS5 must have a heatsink. This is because high-performance SSDs generate a lot of heat, and without proper cooling, they can “thermal throttle,” meaning their performance slows down to prevent damage. A heatsink dissipates this heat, ensuring your SSD maintains optimal speed and longevity.
Q4: How do I install a 4TB SSD in my PS5?
A4: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver. First, power down and unplug your PS5. Then, remove the bottom cover of the console, locate the M.2 expansion slot, remove the screw and spacer, insert the SSD at an angle, secure it with the spacer/screw, replace the cover, and power on. The PS5 will then format the drive. Always refer to the official PlayStation guide or the SSD’s manual for detailed instructions.
Q5: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
A5: No, not directly. You can use an external USB SSD or HDD to store PS4 games and play them directly. However, PS5 games must be played from the console’s internal storage or an installed internal M.2 NVMe SSD. You can store PS5 games on an external drive, but you’ll need to transfer them back to the internal or M.2 SSD to play them. This is why an internal M.2 SSD is the ideal PS5 storage upgrade.
Q6: What’s the real difference between PCIe Gen3 and Gen4 SSDs for PS5?
A6: The PS5 requires PCIe Gen4 SSDs because they are significantly faster than Gen3 drives. While Gen3 SSDs might work, they won’t meet Sony’s minimum speed requirements, potentially leading to performance issues or incompatibility. Gen4 drives offer much higher bandwidth, which is essential for loading large game assets quickly and reducing load times in PS5 titles.
Q7: Is 4TB too much storage for a PS5?
A7: For many users, 4TB is a substantial amount of storage, but it’s rarely “too much.” With modern game sizes continuing to grow, a 4TB SSD gives you immense freedom to download new titles without worrying about space. It also allows you to keep a vast back catalog of PS4 and PS5 games ready to play, making it a smart long-term investment for serious gamers.
Q8: Will a new SSD improve my PS5’s performance beyond just storage?
A8: Yes, it absolutely can! While the PS5’s internal SSD is already very fast, installing a high-quality M.2 NVMe SSD that meets or exceeds Sony’s speed requirements can lead to noticeable improvements in game load times, texture streaming, and overall system responsiveness, even for games already optimized for the console’s built-in drive. It’s a true performance upgrade, not just a storage one.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best 4TB SSD for PS5 really comes down to balancing raw speed, included features like a heatsink, and your budget. Whether you opt for the official licensing of the WD_BLACK SN850P, the blazing performance of the Samsung 990 PRO, or one of the excellent value options like the fanxiang S880E or MOVE SPEED HB7450, you’re making a fantastic investment in your gaming experience.
No more choosing between your favorite titles or waiting ages for games to load. With a 4TB SSD, you’re unlocking a new level of freedom and speed for your PlayStation 5. Happy gaming!