Tired of constantly deleting games to make space on your PlayStation 4? Do those lengthy loading screens feel like an eternity? You’re not alone! Many PS4 gamers face the same frustrating storage limitations and slow performance from their console’s internal hard drive. The good news is, there’s a fantastic solution: an external SSD. These speedy little devices can dramatically improve your gaming experience, offering faster loading times and ample room for your ever-growing game library.
Finding the best external SSD for PS4 can feel like a quest in itself with so many options out there. But don’t sweat it! We’ve scoured the market to bring you a hand-picked list of top contenders that will not only solve your storage woes but also give your PS4 a much-needed performance boost. Let’s dive in and find the perfect upgrade for your PlayStation 4!
1. BUFFALO External SSD 1TB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5
This Buffalo External SSD stands out as a top-notch, budget-friendly option for PS4 users looking for a significant upgrade without breaking the bank. It’s designed for simplicity and efficiency, offering a compact and reliable way to expand your game storage and cut down on those annoying loading screens. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a professional on the go, its robust design and fast speeds make it an ideal companion for storing your essential data, from games to large work files.
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Key Features:
- BEST VALUE SSD – Compact and reliable.
- Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs.
- Saves space and loading time on your console.
- Ideal for on-the-go access and large data copying.
- Faster speed than traditional HDDs.
- Compact, durable, and reliable with shock-resistant, rugged design.
- USB 3.2 Connectivity (USB-C / USB-A compatible).
- Three-year warranty (for registered devices).
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Pros:
- Excellent value for money.
- Highly portable and durable.
- Significantly reduces game loading times.
- Broad compatibility across various devices.
- Plug-and-play simplicity.
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Cons:
- 1TB might not be enough for very large game libraries over time.
- Speeds are good but not the absolute fastest compared to premium NVMe SSDs.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this Buffalo SSD for its straightforward setup and noticeable speed improvements on their PS4. Many appreciate its sturdy build and how easily it fits into a pocket, making it super convenient for gamers who might move their console or data around. It’s often highlighted as a reliable workhorse for its price.
2. Seagate Portable 5TB External Hard Drive HDD – USB 3.0
While technically an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and not an SSD, we’ve included the Seagate Portable 5TB because it offers an incredible amount of storage for its price, which can be a huge draw for gamers who prioritize sheer volume over lightning-fast speeds. If you have an enormous game collection and simply want more space without constantly deleting titles, this drive is a fantastic, reliable choice. It’s designed for effortless use, making it a plug-and-play solution for expanding your digital universe.
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Key Features:
- Massive 5TB storage capacity.
- USB 3.0 connectivity for decent transfer speeds.
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers (and PS4).
- Simple drag-and-drop file backup.
- Plug-and-play setup – no software required.
- Includes an 18-inch USB 3.0 cable.
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Pros:
- Exceptional storage capacity for the price.
- Very easy to set up and use.
- Reliable brand reputation.
- Compact and portable for an HDD of this size.
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Cons:
- As an HDD, it’s significantly slower than an SSD, meaning longer game loading times.
- More susceptible to damage from drops compared to SSDs.
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User Impressions: Gamers who opt for this Seagate drive often rave about the sheer amount of space it provides, allowing them to install dozens of games without worrying about storage. While they acknowledge it’s not as fast as an SSD, they find it perfectly acceptable for mass storage, especially for older or less demanding titles. It’s considered a dependable, no-frills storage solution.
3. UnionSine 1TB Ultra Slim Portable External Hard Drive
The UnionSine 1TB External Hard Drive, like the Seagate, is an HDD, but it earns its spot due to its focus on ultra-slim portability and enhanced cable technology. For those who need a sleek, easily pocketable solution for extra PS4 game storage that also prioritizes a stable connection, this drive is definitely worth a look. Its thoughtful design, including anti-interference measures, aims to provide a more reliable and efficient experience even with a traditional hard drive.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-thin and quiet design for easy portability.
- Upgraded cable with aluminum anti-interference layer for stable transmission.
- Ultra-Fast Data Transfers with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 compatibility (up to 125MB/s read, 103MB/s write).
- Plug and Play with no software installation required.
- Double anti-interference chip for faster and more stable speeds.
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Pros:
- Extremely portable and slim design.
- Enhanced cable and chip design for stable data transfer.
- Very easy to use, just plug it in.
- Quiet operation.
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Cons:
- Still an HDD, so not as fast as a true SSD for game loading.
- 1TB capacity might fill up quickly for avid gamers.
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend the UnionSine for its remarkably slim profile, making it genuinely easy to carry around. The upgraded cable is a definite plus, with many reporting stable and consistent performance for an HDD. It’s often recommended for those needing a compact, reliable storage expansion without needing the absolute top-tier speeds of an SSD.
4. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C
When it comes to durability and raw speed, the SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD truly lives up to its name. This powerhouse is an excellent choice for gamers who demand not only rapid loading times but also a drive that can withstand the rigors of travel or accidental drops. Its NVMe solid-state performance ensures your games load in a flash, and its rugged design means you can toss it in your bag without a second thought. If you’re looking for one of the best external SSD for PS4 with both speed and resilience, this is it.
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Key Features:
- NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment.
- Password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management and space freeing.
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Pros:
- Blazing fast transfer speeds for quick game loading.
- Incredibly durable and resistant to drops, water, and dust.
- Compact size despite its ruggedness.
- Enhanced security with hardware encryption.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to NVMe speed and durability features.
- 1TB might still be insufficient for huge game libraries.
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User Impressions: Gamers and content creators alike rave about the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD’s impressive speed and rock-solid durability. Many highlight how quickly games load and how resilient the drive is to everyday bumps and scrapes. It’s often seen as a premium choice for those who value both performance and peace of mind.
5. BUFFALO External SSD 1.0TB – Officially Licensed Product
This particular Buffalo External SSD stands out because it’s officially licensed for PlayStation consoles, giving you extra peace of mind regarding compatibility and performance specifically tuned for your PS4 (and PS5). Its cable-free, compact USB stick design is incredibly convenient, allowing you to plug it directly into your console without extra clutter. If you want a no-fuss, guaranteed-to-work solution that’s been quality-checked by PlayStation, this is a strong contender for the best external SSD for PS4.
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Key Features:
- Officially Licensed SSD for PS5 / PS4.
- Expands free space by saving PS5 game data and PS4 game titles.
- Reduces game loading times on PS4.
- Compact stick type for cable-free, easy connection.
- Includes Setup Guide and Warranty Statement.
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Pros:
- Guaranteed compatibility and optimized performance for PlayStation consoles.
- Extremely compact, “stick-type” design means no cables.
- Noticeable reduction in game loading times.
- Easy plug-and-play setup.
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Cons:
- Limited to 1TB capacity.
- May not offer the absolute fastest speeds compared to high-end NVMe SSDs.
- Direct plug design might block adjacent USB ports on some setups.
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User Impressions: PS4 owners are particularly fond of this Buffalo SSD for its official licensing, which instills confidence. They frequently mention how simple it is to set up and how effectively it reduces load times. The cable-free design is a huge hit, making console setup much tidier. It’s considered a reliable and convenient upgrade for any PlayStation enthusiast.
6. SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 External
For serious gamers and creators who demand top-tier performance and massive storage, the Samsung T9 Portable SSD is a game-changer. This drive boasts incredible sustained read and write speeds, ensuring that even the largest games load in a blink. With advanced thermal management, it stays cool under pressure, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions. If you’re looking for the ultimate best external SSD for PS4 that combines speed, reliability, and vast capacity, the T9 is a premium choice.
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Key Features:
- Nonstop speeds up to 2,000MB/s (read/write).
- Dynamic Thermal Guard to control heat during heavy use.
- Extensive compatibility with desktops, cameras, and gaming consoles.
- Strong, solid, and stable design for heavy use longevity.
- Magician Software for firmware updates and drive health monitoring.
- From the world’s #1 flash memory brand.
- Supports iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video and more.
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Pros:
- Phenomenally fast, significantly reducing load times for any game.
- Excellent thermal management prevents throttling.
- Robust build quality ensures durability.
- Massive 4TB capacity allows for an expansive game library.
- Versatile compatibility beyond just PS4.
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Cons:
- Premium price point, which might be a barrier for some.
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds are overkill for PS4’s USB 3.0 ports (but still offers excellent performance within PS4 limits).
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User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the Samsung T9’s speed and reliability. Gamers report instantaneous loading times, while content creators appreciate its ability to handle large files seamlessly. The cool operation during intensive tasks is also a frequently praised feature. It’s widely considered a worthwhile investment for those seeking peak performance.
7. Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 2TB External Solid State Drive
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD strikes an excellent balance between speed, durability, and affordability, making it a highly popular choice for gamers. With fast read/write speeds that are almost twice as fast as its predecessor, the T5, it ensures your PS4 games load quickly and efficiently. Its compact yet robust aluminum unibody construction provides excellent shock resistance, meaning it can handle everyday knocks and drops. If you need a reliable, speedy, and reasonably priced external SSD with ample space, the T7 is a fantastic option for your PS4.
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Key Features:
- Fast read and write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s (PCIe NVMe technology).
- Compact design with capacities up to 4TB (this model is 2TB).
- Extensive compatibility with PC, mobile phones, and gaming consoles.
- Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet.
- Solid aluminum unibody construction.
- Supports Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fps) video recording directly to drive.
- From the world’s #1 flash memory brand.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed improvement over internal PS4 drive.
- Very durable with good drop protection.
- Sleek, compact, and highly portable design.
- Reliable performance from a trusted brand.
- Good value for its speed and capacity.
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Cons:
- Not as fast as the premium T9, though still very quick for PS4.
- Some users might desire even larger capacities for extreme game libraries.
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User Impressions: The Samsung T7 is a fan favorite for good reason. Users consistently report noticeable improvements in game loading times and overall PS4 performance. Its slim, sturdy design is also a huge plus, making it easy to carry and giving confidence against accidental bumps. It’s often highlighted as the perfect blend of performance, portability, and price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why should I get an external SSD for my PS4?
A: An external SSD can significantly improve your PS4 experience by offering much faster game loading times compared to the console’s internal HDD. It also provides extra storage space, so you don’t have to delete games to make room for new ones. Plus, it can potentially make your PS4’s dashboard feel snappier.
Q2: Is an external SSD faster than an external HDD for PS4 gaming?
A: Absolutely, yes! SSDs (Solid State Drives) have no moving parts, allowing for much faster data transfer speeds than traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). This translates directly to quicker game installations, faster loading screens, and smoother gameplay on your PS4.
Q3: How do I connect an external SSD to my PS4?
A: It’s super simple! Just plug the external SSD into one of your PS4’s USB 3.0 ports. Go to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices, select your SSD, and then choose “Format as Extended Storage.” Your PS4 will then prepare the drive for use, and you can start moving or installing games to it.
Q4: Can I play PS4 games directly from an external SSD?
A: Yes, you can! Once formatted as extended storage, your PS4 will automatically install new games to it (unless you specify otherwise), and you can launch existing games directly from the external SSD. This is where you’ll see the biggest benefits in loading speeds.
Q5: Will an external SSD improve my PS4 Pro’s performance even more?
A: Yes, an external SSD will benefit both the standard PS4 and the PS4 Pro. While the PS4 Pro might have some minor internal hardware advantages, the bottleneck for both consoles often lies in the slow internal HDD. Upgrading to an external SSD will yield significant speed improvements for both models, especially for game loading.
Q6: What capacity external SSD should I choose for my PS4?
A: It really depends on your gaming habits.
* 500GB-1TB: Good for casual gamers or those with a smaller game library.
* 1TB-2TB: Ideal for most gamers, offering a good balance of space and cost for a growing game collection.
* 4TB+: Best for hardcore gamers with massive libraries or those who never want to delete a game. Keep in mind that bigger capacities mean higher costs.
Q7: Are all external SSDs compatible with PS4?
A: Most external SSDs with a USB 3.0 (or newer) connection will work with the PS4. However, it’s always best to check the product specifications for “PS4 compatibility” or “gaming console compatibility” to be certain. Officially licensed products, like one of the Buffalo SSDs reviewed, offer guaranteed compatibility.
Q8: Can I use the same external SSD for both PS4 and PS5?
A: Yes, many external SSDs are compatible with both consoles. For PS4 games, you can store and play them directly from the external SSD on both PS4 and PS5. For PS5 games, you can only store them on an external drive; to play them, you’ll need to transfer them back to the PS5’s internal SSD due to the PS5’s specific speed requirements for its native titles.