Is your PlayStation 4 feeling a bit sluggish? Are you tired of staring at endless loading screens when all you want to do is jump into your favorite game? You’re not alone! Upgrading your PS4’s storage can dramatically improve your gaming experience, and a high-quality Solid State Drive (SSD) is the way to go. Lexar is a well-known brand in the storage world, offering reliable and fast SSDs that can breathe new life into your console.
Finding the Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS4 isn’t just about speed; it’s about compatibility, durability, and value. While the PS4 can’t fully utilize the blistering speeds of the very latest NVMe drives internally, external SSDs can still offer a significant boost in load times and overall responsiveness for games stored on them. Plus, for internal upgrades, a 2.5-inch SATA SSD is your best bet.
We’ve delved into Lexar’s current lineup to help you choose. Here are our top picks for the Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS4, covering both internal and external options to supercharge your console. Let’s dive in and find the perfect upgrade for your gaming setup!
1. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
If you’re looking for an external upgrade that’s both speedy and super portable, the Lexar ES3 is a fantastic choice. This little powerhouse is designed to be on the go, making it perfect for gamers who want to carry their favorite titles or quick backups. Its sleek metal design isn’t just for looks; it adds durability, making it a reliable companion for your PS4. While it’s great for quickly expanding your storage and cutting down on load times for games stored externally, remember it won’t replace your PS4’s internal drive.
Key Features:
– High-speed Data Transfer: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
– Wide Compatibility: Works with PS4, PS5, Xbox X|S, PCs, and various mobile devices.
– On The Go Design: Thin, stylish, durable metal, weighs only 42g and 10.5mm thick.
– Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software.
– Plug-and-play convenience with an included Type-C cable.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for external PS4 game storage.
– Extremely portable and lightweight design.
– Durable metal casing.
– Software encryption adds an extra layer of security for your data.
– Broad compatibility, including PS4.
Cons:
– Speed might be slightly limited by PS4’s USB 3.0 ports (still a huge upgrade from HDD).
– Not an internal upgrade, so the main console OS remains on the slower HDD.
User Impressions:
Users often praise the ES3 for its compact size and impressive speed. Many find it incredibly easy to set up with their gaming consoles, appreciating the quick file transfers and noticeable reduction in game load times. The robust build quality also gets a lot of positive remarks.
2. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD takes external storage to another level, especially for those who need more than just a drive. This isn’t just a tough, fast SSD; it also integrates a hub with four USB Type-C ports, giving you ultimate flexibility. While the hub features might be more geared towards content creators on the go, the SSD itself offers blazing-fast performance and incredible durability, perfect for expanding your PS4’s game library. It’s built to withstand the elements, ensuring your games are safe wherever you take them.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact and portable design for spontaneous creativity.
– Blazing-fast performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
– Integrated Hub: Features four USB Type-C ports with included adapters/cables.
– Ready for travel: Dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Exceptional durability makes it ideal for frequent travel or rough handling.
– High transfer speeds significantly reduce game load times.
– The integrated hub offers versatility for other devices (though less direct for PS4).
– Compact and lightweight.
– Long warranty period for peace of mind.
Cons:
– The hub feature might be unnecessary for PS4-only users, potentially adding to the cost.
– PS4’s USB 3.0 speeds won’t fully leverage its maximum potential.
User Impressions:
This drive is highly regarded by users for its ruggedness and reliability. Gamers note the smooth performance when running titles from it. The extra ports on the hub are a bonus for those with other gadgets, even if not directly benefiting the PS4 experience itself.
3. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
The Lexar NM790 is an absolute beast when it comes to speed, designed for high-performance PCs and, notably, the PlayStation 5. With incredible read and write speeds, it’s a dream for hardcore gamers and professionals. However, it’s crucial to understand that this NVMe M.2 SSD is NOT compatible for internal use with the PlayStation 4. The PS4 uses a 2.5-inch SATA drive internally. While you could technically use this with your PS4 via an external NVMe enclosure, you wouldn’t get its full Gen4 speed, and it adds complexity and cost. For a PS4, it’s better to consider an external USB SSD or a 2.5-inch SATA internal drive.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance: Up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
– PCIe Gen 4 technology, 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs.
– Up to 40% less power consumption than other DRAM cache-enabled Gen 4 SSDs.
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfers.
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 (not PS4 internally).
– Single-sided design, great for laptops and PS5.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds for compatible devices (PC, PS5).
– Very power-efficient.
– Excellent for high-end gaming and professional applications.
– Long warranty.
Cons:
– Not for internal PS4 use.
– Requires an external enclosure to connect to PS4, which bottlenecks its speed and adds cost.
– Overkill for PS4’s capabilities even externally.
User Impressions:
Users with compatible systems (like PCs and PS5) rave about the NM790’s insane speeds and seamless performance. They highlight significant improvements in game loading and system responsiveness. However, PS4 users should be aware of its specific internal incompatibility.
4. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD (Repeat)
Yes, you’re seeing double! This is the same excellent Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD we reviewed earlier. Its popularity and strong feature set make it a top contender for anyone needing reliable external storage for their PS4. With its swift data transfer rates and robust, travel-friendly design, it continues to be a smart choice for gamers looking to expand their PS4’s game library without opening up the console. It offers a great balance of speed, portability, and security for your valuable game data.
Key Features:
– High-speed Data Transfer: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
– Wide Compatibility: Works with PS4, PS5, Xbox X|S, PCs, and various mobile devices.
– On The Go Design: Thin, stylish, durable metal, weighs only 42g and 10.5mm thick.
– Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software.
– Plug-and-play convenience with an included Type-C cable.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for external PS4 game storage.
– Extremely portable and lightweight design.
– Durable metal casing.
– Software encryption adds an extra layer of security for your data.
– Broad compatibility, including PS4.
Cons:
– Speed might be slightly limited by PS4’s USB 3.0 ports (still a huge upgrade from HDD).
– Not an internal upgrade, so the main console OS remains on the slower HDD.
User Impressions:
As before, users consistently praise its compact size, ease of use, and noticeable speed improvements for their games. It’s often recommended as a hassle-free way to expand storage for various devices, including gaming consoles.
5. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
Just like its sibling without the heatsink, the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is a high-performance NVMe M.2 SSD engineered for top-tier gaming PCs and the PlayStation 5. The integrated heatsink is a fantastic addition for intense workloads, ensuring the drive stays cool and maintains peak performance during extended gaming sessions on compatible devices. However, it’s vital to reiterate: this drive is NOT for internal PS4 use. The PS4’s internal slot is for a 2.5-inch SATA drive, and even if used externally with an enclosure, the heatsink would be largely unnecessary and potentially problematic. This is truly designed for next-gen consoles or high-end PC builds.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance: Up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
– Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool for better performance.
– Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled Gen 4 SSDs.
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for seamless performance.
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 (not PS4 internally).
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Extreme speeds ideal for high-end PCs and PS5.
– Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management.
– Power-efficient operation.
– Long warranty.
Cons:
– Not for internal PS4 use.
– Heatsink is not beneficial and can be an issue for external PS4 enclosures.
– Overkill in terms of speed and cost for PS4’s capabilities.
User Impressions:
PS5 and PC users highlight the NM790 with Heatsink as a game-changer for load times and overall system snappiness. The heatsink is especially appreciated for preventing throttling during heavy use. For PS4 owners, however, this drive’s features are mostly irrelevant for direct use.
6. Lexar 1TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
Alright, PS4 gamers, this is the one you’ve been looking for if you want to replace your console’s internal hard drive! The Lexar NS100 is a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD, which is exactly what your PlayStation 4 needs for an internal storage upgrade. While its speeds won’t match the external USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives listed above, it will still offer a significant improvement over the stock mechanical hard drive in your PS4. You’ll notice faster boot times, quicker menu navigation, and reduced loading screens across the board for all your installed games. It’s a tried-and-true method for giving your PS4 a real speed injection.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads.
– Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s.
– Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives.
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts.
– 480TBW (Terabytes Written) durability rating.
– Three-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Perfect for internal PS4 upgrade.
– Significantly faster boot-up and game load times compared to a HDD.
– More durable and reliable due to no moving parts.
– Cost-effective internal upgrade option.
Cons:
– Requires opening your PS4 for installation.
– Slower than NVMe drives or even some external USB 3.2 Gen 2 SSDs.
– PS4’s SATA II/III interface might slightly bottleneck its full potential (still vastly better than HDD).
User Impressions:
Gamers who upgrade their PS4s with the NS100 consistently report feeling like they have a “new console.” The difference in responsiveness and loading speed is often described as night and day. It’s a highly recommended upgrade for anyone sticking with their PS4.
7. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is an absolute speed demon, offering incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance. This thin, lightweight, and durable drive is designed for peak performance, especially if you’re working with high-resolution video or simply want the fastest possible external storage. For your PS4, while the console’s USB 3.0 ports won’t allow you to hit the SL500’s maximum 2000MB/s speeds, you’ll still experience a substantial boost compared to the internal HDD. It’s an excellent choice if you want a future-proof external drive that performs incredibly well with your PS4 today and can unleash its full potential with newer devices later.
Key Features:
– Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: Up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write.
– Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design.
– Supports Apple ProRes recording (for iPhone 15 Pro/Max users).
– Wide compatibility: PS4, PS5, Xbox X|S, mobile devices, laptops, cameras.
– Unique Thermal Control Design for sustained high performance.
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Extremely fast for external game storage, even if PS4 bottlenecks maximum speed.
– Premium, durable, and ultra-portable metal design.
– Excellent thermal management prevents slowdowns.
– High security with AES encryption.
– Long warranty.
Cons:
– PS4’s USB 3.0 ports won’t fully utilize its 2000MB/s potential.
– Higher price point due to cutting-edge technology.
User Impressions:
Users are blown away by the SL500’s speed and sleek design. Many use it across various devices, loving its versatility. PS4 users specifically note significant reductions in load times and a much smoother overall gaming experience when running games from this drive.
Conclusion: Finding Your Lexar Best 1TB SSD for PS4
Upgrading your PS4 with a Lexar 1TB SSD is one of the best decisions you can make to revitalize your gaming experience. Whether you opt for an external solution like the super-portable Lexar ES3 or the lightning-fast Lexar SL500 for convenient plug-and-play storage, or you choose the dedicated internal upgrade with the Lexar NS100 SATA III SSD, you’re in for a treat.
Remember, for an internal PS4 upgrade, the Lexar NS100 is your ideal choice. For external storage that boosts load times and offers incredible portability, the Lexar ES3 and Lexar SL500 are top contenders. While the NVMe drives (NM790 series) are phenomenal, they aren’t designed for direct internal PS4 use.
No matter which Lexar SSD you choose from this list, you’ll be well on your way to faster load times, smoother gameplay, and more enjoyable sessions with your PlayStation 4. Happy gaming!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why should I upgrade my PS4 with an SSD?
A1: Upgrading your PS4’s slow mechanical hard drive (HDD) to a Solid State Drive (SSD) drastically reduces game loading times, improves overall system responsiveness (like navigating menus), and can even make some games run a bit smoother. It’s one of the most impactful upgrades you can make.
Q2: What’s the difference between an internal and external SSD for PS4?
A2: An internal SSD replaces your PS4’s original HDD. This requires opening your console and reinstalling the PS4 system software. It improves performance for the console’s operating system and all games stored on it. An external SSD connects via a USB port. It’s plug-and-play, letting you store and play games directly from it, which will also significantly speed up loading times for those specific games. However, the PS4’s OS will still run from the slower internal drive.
Q3: Can I use any 1TB Lexar SSD with my PS4?
A3: Not exactly. For internal PS4 upgrades, you need a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD (like the Lexar NS100). NVMe M.2 SSDs (like the Lexar NM790 series) are not internally compatible with the PS4. For external storage, most USB 3.0 (or newer) compatible external SSDs will work well with your PS4, though their maximum speeds will be capped by the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports.
Q4: How do I install an internal Lexar SSD in my PS4?
A4: Installing an internal SSD involves backing up your PS4 data, carefully opening the console to remove the old HDD, inserting the new 2.5-inch SATA SSD, and then reinstalling the PS4’s system software via a USB drive. Sony provides official guides, and there are many helpful video tutorials online. It’s a straightforward process, but requires some patience.
Q5: Will an external Lexar SSD improve all my PS4 games?
A5: An external SSD will only improve the loading times and performance of games that are stored on that external SSD. Games still installed on your PS4’s internal hard drive won’t see any benefit from an external SSD. You’ll need to transfer games to the external drive to experience the speed boost.
Q6: What does “USB 3.2 Gen 2” or “USB 3.2 Gen 2×2” mean for PS4?
A6: These terms refer to different generations of USB connectivity, offering varying maximum speeds.
* USB 3.2 Gen 2 (also known as USB 3.1 Gen 2) offers speeds up to 10Gbps (around 1000MB/s).
* USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 offers even faster speeds, up to 20Gbps (around 2000MB/s).
However, your PS4 only has USB 3.0 ports, which max out at 5Gbps (around 500MB/s). So, while these Lexar SSDs are capable of much higher speeds, the PS4 itself will limit the actual speed you experience. Despite this, even being limited by USB 3.0, an external SSD is still significantly faster than the PS4’s internal HDD.
Q7: Do Lexar SSDs come with any software for PS4?
A7: Some Lexar external SSDs, like the ES3 and SL500, come with Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software. This is primarily for protecting files when used with a computer, not directly for the PS4. The PS4 itself handles game data and encryption for its stored content.