Got a gaming PC but constantly running out of space or stuck with painfully long load times? We’ve all been there. Upgrading your storage is often the quickest way to breathe new life into your setup, and when it comes to speed and reliability, an external SSD is a game-changer. Especially for gamers, finding the Crucial best external SSD for gaming PC can truly elevate your experience.
Crucial, a well-known name in memory and storage, offers a fantastic lineup of external SSDs that are perfect for expanding your game library, cutting down on loading screens, and ensuring your games run smoothly, whether you’re at home or on the go. Let’s dive into the top 7 Crucial external SSDs that are making waves in the gaming community.
Why an External SSD is a Must-Have for PC Gamers
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly chat about why you might want one of these slick devices. Traditional hard drives (HDDs) are slow, especially for modern games with massive textures and open worlds. Internal SSDs are great, but sometimes you just need more space without opening your rig, or a portable solution to take your games to a friend’s house. External SSDs offer:
- Blazing-fast load times: Say goodbye to staring at loading screens.
- Portability: Take your entire game library with you.
- Easy installation: Just plug and play!
- Durability: No moving parts means less chance of data loss from bumps or drops.
- Compatibility: Often works with consoles too (PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, etc.).
Now, let’s explore some of the Crucial best external SSD for gaming PC options available!
The Top 7 Crucial External SSDs for Gaming PCs
1. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
This 2TB Crucial X9 model hits a sweet spot for many gamers, offering ample storage and impressive speeds for its category. It’s designed for casual gamers and everyday users who need reliable, fast external storage without breaking the bank. With speeds up to 1050MB/s, you’ll notice a significant difference in game loading and file transfer times compared to a traditional HDD. Its rugged design also means it can handle the occasional bump or spill, making it a great companion for travel or LAN parties.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s accelerates large file transfers, media editing, and backup processes.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant 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: Compact 2TB SSD for photos, videos, backups, and games.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and capacity for its price point.
- Very durable and resistant to water/dust – great for gamers on the go.
- Plug-and-play compatibility across a wide range of devices, including gaming consoles.
- Compact and lightweight design.
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Cons:
- Speeds are good but not the absolute fastest compared to Pro/X10 models.
- May not utilize full potential on older USB-A ports without an adapter.
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User Impressions: Customers frequently praise the X9 for its straightforward setup and noticeable speed improvements. Many mention it’s perfect for carrying their game library and using it seamlessly between their PC and console. The build quality also gets high marks for feeling robust.
2. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
If you’re looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option or only need to offload a handful of your biggest games, the 1TB Crucial X9 offers the same excellent performance and durability as its 2TB sibling. It’s a fantastic entry point for gamers wanting to experience the speed benefits of an external SSD without committing to a larger capacity. Perfect for a core game library you want to keep easily accessible and portable.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for fast file transfers and game loading.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: Compact 1TB SSD for games, photos, videos, and backups.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Affordable way to get into high-speed external SSD gaming.
- Robust and travel-friendly design.
- Excellent compatibility across PC and console ecosystems.
- Compact form factor is easy to carry.
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Cons:
- 1TB might fill up quickly if you have a massive game collection.
- Same speed tier as the larger X9 models, not the fastest Crucial offers.
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User Impressions: Users love the X9 1TB for its small footprint and powerful performance. It’s often recommended for quickly backing up Steam libraries or moving games between different systems. The ease of use is a recurring positive comment.
3. Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
Now we’re talking serious speed! The Crucial X10 4TB is a beast designed for those who demand ultra-fast data access – perfect for competitive PC gamers and creators. With incredible read speeds up to 2,100MB/s, this drive significantly reduces game loading times and ensures large game installations are a breeze. If you’re tired of waiting and need vast amounts of quick storage, this matte blue powerhouse is definitely a contender for the Crucial best external SSD for gaming PC.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds, far outperforming traditional hard drives.
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres).
- 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 4TB SSD for all your games, high-res media, and backups.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Incredibly fast speeds revolutionize game loading and file transfers.
- Enhanced durability with superior IP65 rating and higher drop resistance.
- Massive 4TB capacity allows for an expansive game library.
- Excellent for modern, large AAA game titles.
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port to achieve maximum advertised speeds (though still fast on Gen2).
- Higher price point due to capacity and speed.
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User Impressions: Gamers and content creators alike rave about the X10’s speed. They report dramatically reduced load times in games and swift transfers of huge files. The robust build quality also instills confidence for users who take it on the go.
4. Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
For the ultimate game hoarder or professional who needs an entire digital universe at their fingertips, the Crucial X10 8TB is simply unparalleled. Boasting the same blistering 2,100MB/s read speeds as its 4TB counterpart, this drive lets you store an unbelievably vast collection of games, 4K videos, and massive projects without compromise. If you truly want to future-proof your storage and ensure you never have to delete a game again, this is your champion, making it a strong contender for the Crucial best external SSD for gaming PC with extreme needs.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds, ideal for demanding applications and gaming.
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres).
- Broad Compatibility: Works effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Compact 8TB SSD for an unimaginable amount of games, photos, videos, and backups.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Truly immense 8TB capacity – you’ll likely never run out of space.
- Phenomenal speeds ensure virtually no waiting for games to load or transfer.
- Superior durability for peace of mind, even with such a large investment.
- The ultimate solution for professionals and dedicated gamers.
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Cons:
- A premium price reflects its top-tier capacity and performance.
- Requires a compatible USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port for peak performance.
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User Impressions: Customers who opt for the 8TB version are typically power users who are ecstatic about the sheer volume of data they can store at such high speeds. They highlight its reliability and performance for extensive game libraries and professional media workflows.
5. Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
If you need a lot of space but don’t necessarily require the absolute fastest speeds available, the Crucial X9 4TB is a fantastic value proposition. It offers the same reliable 1050MB/s performance and robust build as other X9 models, but with a generous 4TB capacity. This makes it ideal for gamers with large game libraries who prioritize ample storage and solid performance without stretching their budget to the X10’s ultra-fast tier.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for accelerating large files and game loading.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant 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: Compact 4TB SSD for all your games, photos, videos, and backups.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Huge 4TB capacity at a more accessible price point than the X10 4TB.
- Reliable and consistent performance for most gaming needs.
- Durable design protects against everyday hazards.
- Great balance of storage and speed for a wide range of gamers.
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Cons:
- Not as fast as the Crucial X10 series, which some high-end gamers might prefer.
- Still benefits most from USB-C connectivity.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the X9 4TB for its generous storage coupled with dependable speed. Many find it to be a perfect “set it and forget it” solution for expanding their PC and console game libraries, praising its seamless operation and robust feel.
6. Crucial X10 Pro 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read, 2000MB/s Write
The Crucial X10 Pro 1TB takes the already impressive X10 series and adds enhanced features for professionals and serious gamers who need that extra layer of security and convenience. While its core speeds are similar to the standard X10 (2100MB/s read, 2000MB/s write), the “Pro” designation brings password protection, a lanyard loop, and an activity light. This makes it perfect for those who carry sensitive data or their essential game installs and need peace of mind wherever they go.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds for seamless workflow and gaming.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters); includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Compact 1TB SSD, offering secure and reliable storage for professionals and content creators (and gamers!).
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast read and write speeds ensure top-tier gaming performance.
- Added security features like password protection are a huge plus for sensitive data or shared devices.
- Activity light and lanyard loop enhance usability and portability.
- Still very durable with IP55 rating.
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Cons:
- 1TB capacity might be limiting for a massive game collection compared to larger X10 models.
- The “Pro” features might be overkill for casual users who just need speed.
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User Impressions: Reviewers highlight the fantastic speeds and the added peace of mind from the password protection. Gamers appreciate the quick transfers and load times, while professionals value the secure, fast storage for their projects. The premium feel and extra touches are often mentioned positively.
7. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read, 1050MB/s Write
Combining the reliable 1050MB/s performance of the X9 series with the enhanced “Pro” features and a substantial 4TB capacity, the Crucial X9 Pro 4TB is an excellent choice for gamers who need a large, secure, and dependably fast external drive. It offers synchronous read/write speeds, password protection, and a rugged build, making it a stellar option for storing a vast game library and knowing your data is safe and quickly accessible.
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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); includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Compact 4TB SSD for high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and current projects (or games!).
- Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Generous 4TB capacity for an extensive game collection.
- Consistent 1050MB/s read and write speeds provide solid gaming performance.
- Enhanced security with SSD password protection and a robust design.
- Highly versatile with broad compatibility across devices.
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Cons:
- Not as fast as the X10 Pro series for those demanding ultimate speed.
- The “Pro” features come with a slightly higher price tag than the standard X9.
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User Impressions: Customers often praise the X9 Pro 4TB for striking a perfect balance between speed, capacity, and security. Gamers find it an ideal solution for storing large game installations and quickly transferring them, appreciating the added data protection.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About External SSDs for Gaming Answered!
Q1: Why should I choose an external SSD over a traditional external HDD for gaming?
A1: The biggest reason is speed! External SSDs offer dramatically faster read and write speeds compared to HDDs, leading to significantly reduced game load times, quicker installations, and smoother in-game performance. They also have no moving parts, making them more durable and less prone to damage from drops.
Q2: Will an external SSD improve my game’s frame rate?
A2: Directly, no. An external SSD primarily affects loading times and how quickly game assets can be streamed. Your frame rate is determined by your CPU, GPU, and RAM. However, by reducing stuttering caused by slow asset loading (especially in open-world games), an SSD can contribute to a more perceived smooth gaming experience.
Q3: What’s the difference between the Crucial X9 and X10 series?
A3: The main difference is speed and durability. The Crucial X9 series offers speeds up to 1050MB/s and IP55 water/dust resistance. The Crucial X10 series, designed for more demanding users, boasts speeds up to 2100MB/s (requiring a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port for full speed) and a higher IP65 resistance rating. The “Pro” versions of each often add security features like password protection.
Q4: Do I need a specific USB port to get the best performance from these SSDs?
A4: Yes, to get the advertised maximum speeds, you’ll ideally need a USB 3.2 Gen2 port for the X9 series (10Gbps) and a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port for the X10 series (20Gbps). While they are backward compatible with older USB ports (like USB 3.0 or even 2.0), the speeds will be limited by the slowest component in the chain. Most modern gaming PCs have USB 3.2 Gen2 ports.
Q5: Can I install my entire Steam or Epic Games library on an external SSD?
A5: Absolutely! That’s one of the primary benefits. Just choose an external SSD with enough capacity (like 2TB, 4TB, or even 8TB) to hold your desired game library. You can then simply direct your game launchers to install games onto the external drive.
Q6: Are these Crucial external SSDs compatible with gaming consoles like PS5 or Xbox Series X/S?
A6: Yes, most Crucial external SSDs, including the X9 and X10 series, are broadly compatible with PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. For next-gen consoles (PS5/Xbox Series X/S), you can typically store and play backward-compatible games directly from the external SSD, and store (but not directly play) next-gen optimized games, needing to transfer them to the internal SSD to play. Always check console manufacturer guidelines for specific requirements.
Q7: How important is the ‘Built to Last’ feature (IP rating, drop resistance) for a gaming external SSD?
A7: It’s quite important, especially if you plan to move the drive around. Gamers often take their drives to friends’ houses for LAN parties, or even use them as portable backup for their gaming laptops. An IP (Ingress Protection) rating for water and dust resistance, combined with drop resistance, means your valuable game library and data are much safer from accidental spills, dust, or bumps.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external SSD for your gaming PC can dramatically improve your experience, from cutting down those endless loading screens to giving you the freedom to take your entire game library wherever you go. Crucial offers a robust lineup, from the reliable and durable X9 series to the ultra-fast and rugged X10 series, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every gamer’s needs and budget. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore enthusiast, investing in a Crucial best external SSD for gaming PC is a smart move that you won’t regret! Happy gaming!