Thinking about expanding your PS5 storage? You’re not alone! With game sizes constantly growing, a bigger, faster SSD isn’t just a luxury – it’s becoming a necessity for serious gamers. And when it comes to upgrading your PlayStation 5, an M.2 NVMe SSD with a heatsink is the way to go to ensure optimal performance and prevent thermal throttling.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive look at some of the top contenders, focusing on the highly sought-after 4TB capacity. We’ll be reviewing options, including the popular Lexar lineup, to help you find the absolute Lexar best 4tb ssd for ps5 with heatsink that fits your needs. Get ready to say goodbye to deleted games and hello to lightning-fast load times!
1. Lexar 4TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2…
The Lexar NM790 with heatsink is a fantastic choice for PS5 owners looking for a blend of high performance and efficiency. This drive truly stands out with its exceptional read and write speeds, pushing the limits of PCIe Gen 4 technology. What’s really clever about it is the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0, which cleverly uses your device’s DRAM cache for smoother data transfers, all while consuming significantly less power than some other high-end PCIe Gen 4 SSDs. It’s a powerhouse designed to keep your console cool and your games loading fast.
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Key Features:
- 4TB Capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write speeds
- High endurance: 3000TBW (Terabytes Written)
- Built-in heatsink for optimal thermal management and power efficiency
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfers
- Fully compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Blazing fast speeds significantly reduce load times
- Excellent power efficiency means less heat generation
- Integrated heatsink simplifies installation and ensures stable performance
- High endurance rating for long-term reliability
- Great value for a high-performance 4TB drive
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Cons:
- HMB relies on the host system’s RAM, which might not be ideal for all PC users, but less of a concern for PS5.
- May not be the absolute fastest in every benchmark compared to some premium drives, but still excellent.
User Impressions: Gamers absolutely rave about the NM790’s speed and how easy it is to install in the PS5. Many note the significant reduction in game load times and smooth gameplay. The integrated heatsink gets a lot of praise for making it a true plug-and-play solution without worrying about overheating.
2. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe…
Designed specifically with PlayStation 5 users in mind, the Lexar Play SSD aims to elevate your gaming experience. This M.2 drive doesn’t just offer vast storage; it’s engineered for reduced load times and seamless gameplay, letting you play games directly from the drive without the hassle of transferring or deleting titles from your console. Its unique heatsink design isn’t just for cooling; it’s also about effortless installation, making it a stellar option for anyone seeking a Lexar best 4tb ssd for ps5 with heatsink.
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Key Features:
- 4TB Capacity
- Max read speeds up to 7400MB/s, max write speeds up to 6500MB/s
- High endurance: 3200TBW
- Tested and approved for PS5 console
- Unique heatsink included for effortless installation and enhanced cooling
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance
- Also suitable for PC gaming
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Optimized for PS5, ensuring great compatibility and performance
- Excellent speeds for rapid game loading and smooth transitions
- High endurance ensures durability for extensive gaming
- Integrated heatsink simplifies the upgrade process and maintains thermal stability
- Generous 4TB capacity allows for a massive game library
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Cons:
- Performance can be similar to other high-end Lexar drives, so might not offer a distinct “Play” advantage in raw speed over the NM790.
- Heatsink design, while unique, is specific to its aesthetic.
User Impressions: Users love that this SSD is practically “made for PS5,” appreciating the straightforward installation and the noticeable speed boost. They highlight the convenience of having so many games available without needing to manage storage, making it a top contender for the Lexar best 4tb ssd for ps5 with heatsink title for dedicated console gamers.
3. SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2, Speeds Up…
The Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD is truly in a league of its own, often considered a “cheat code” for gamers due to its blistering speeds and advanced thermal control. As the fastest SSD from the world’s leading flash memory brand, it delivers near-max performance of PCIe 4.0, making it an absolute beast for gaming, video editing, and any heavy computing tasks. Its integrated ultra-slim heatsink is meticulously designed for efficient heat dissipation, ensuring your PS5 remains cool even during the most intense gaming marathons.
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Key Features:
- 4TB Capacity
- Blazing speeds: up to 7450MB/s read, 6900MB/s write
- Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO
- Integrated ultra-slim heatsink for superior temperature control
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops/laptops
- High-performance bandwidth for heavy computing
- Available in multiple capacities up to 4TB
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Pros:
- Industry-leading speeds for unparalleled loading times and responsiveness
- Exceptional random performance, crucial for gaming and heavy applications
- Highly effective, ultra-slim heatsink ensures stable performance
- Backed by Samsung’s reputation for reliability and quality flash memory
- Massive 4TB storage for an expansive game library
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Cons:
- Premium price point compared to some other options.
- While compatible, some users might find the slim heatsink less robust than thicker aftermarket ones (though still highly effective).
User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the Samsung 990 PRO for its mind-blowing speed and rock-solid reliability. Many report that it feels like a genuine upgrade, with games loading almost instantly. The integrated heatsink is also highly valued for its slim profile and effective cooling.
4. MOVE SPEED HB7450 4TB Internal Solid State Drive for PS5…
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 is a strong contender for those seeking an exceptional balance of speed, capacity, and value. Powered by cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, this 4TB SSD offers impressive read and write speeds that significantly reduce game delays and operating system bottlenecks. What’s more, it comes with a built-in graphene composite heat sink and an additional heatsink in the package, giving you robust cooling options right out of the box. It’s perfect for giving your PS5 the storage and speed upgrade it deserves, allowing you to store over 100 games easily.
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Key Features:
- 4TB Capacity
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High-Speed Interface
- Read speeds up to 7450MB/s, write speeds up to 6500MB/s
- Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptops, and PCs
- M.2 2280 form factor for compact and easy installation
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink
- Additional heatsink, screws, and screwdriver included in package
- Utilizes high-quality 3D NAND flash memory and Maxio MAP1602 controller
- Subjected to rigorous 80-hour testing for stability and longevity
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds rivaling top-tier drives
- Dual cooling solution (built-in graphene + included heatsink) for superior thermal management
- Easy “plug and play” installation with all necessary tools provided
- Robust testing ensures high quality and long service life
- Exceptional storage capacity for a massive game library
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Cons:
- Brand might be less recognized than industry giants like Samsung or WD.
- The extra heatsink requires manual installation, which some users might prefer pre-installed.
User Impressions: Users are pleasantly surprised by the performance of the MOVE SPEED HB7450, often noting its speeds are on par with more expensive brands. The inclusion of an extra heatsink and tools is a huge plus, making the installation process smooth. Gamers appreciate the significant reduction in load times and the sheer amount of storage.
5. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming Solid State Drive…
When it comes to dedicated gaming storage, the WD_BLACK SN850X stands as a titan. This 4TB NVMe SSD is engineered to transform your gaming PC or workstation, but it’s an equally formidable choice for your PS5, delivering absurdly short load times and insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s. With Western Digital’s TLC 3D NAND, you get massive room for games without ever having to hit that delete button again. The optional heatsink version is a no-brainer for PS5, ensuring peak performance through your most intense gaming sessions by keeping temperatures in check.
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Key Features:
- 4TB Capacity
- Top-tier performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s read
- Built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND
- Optional heatsink version for maintaining peak performance
- Supports WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for drive health monitoring and RGB customization (heatsink versions only)
- Future-forward features including Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM)
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Pros:
- Industry-leading speeds specifically optimized for gaming
- Robust build quality with Western Digital’s reliable NAND
- Heatsink effectively prevents thermal throttling during heavy use
- Massive 4TB capacity for an expansive game collection
- Proven performance and reliability from a trusted brand
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Cons:
- Dashboard software benefits are mostly for PC users, not PS5.
- Often carries a premium price, though justified by performance.
User Impressions: The WD_BLACK SN850X consistently earns high marks from gamers for its lightning-fast performance and stability. Users report a dramatic improvement in game load times and overall system responsiveness. The integrated heatsink is particularly appreciated for ensuring cool operation even during extended, demanding play sessions.
6. fanxiang 4TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD for PS5 with…
The fanxiang S880ER 4TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink is another compelling option, especially designed with hardcore gamers and PS5 users in mind. Leveraging a PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology, it delivers extreme sequential read/write speeds that significantly upgrade your console’s storage performance. Its unique heatsink design isn’t just for show; it actively works to reduce the SSD’s temperature during operation, ensuring consistent high performance even during the most demanding gaming sessions or intense data processing. This makes it a worthy consideration if you’re searching for the Lexar best 4tb ssd for ps5 with heatsink alternatives.
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Key Features:
- 4TB Capacity
- PCIe 4.0 Gen 4 x 4 controller, supports NVMe 2.0 technology
- Sequential read/write speeds of up to 7000/6000 MB/s
- Unique heatsink design for efficient thermal control
- Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage
- Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory
- 5-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support
- Suitable for desktops, laptops, and all-in-one PCs (not for Mac OS)
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for fast game loading and a smooth gaming experience
- Effective heatsink keeps temperatures down, maintaining peak performance
- Generous 5-year warranty and strong customer support from an experienced brand
- High-quality 3D NAND ensures durability and reliability
- Great value for a 4TB Gen 4 SSD with a heatsink
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Cons:
- Read/write speeds are slightly lower than some top-tier competitors, though still very fast.
- Brand recognition might be lower for some users.
User Impressions: Customers are generally pleased with the fanxiang S880ER, noting its robust performance for the price. The heatsink is often highlighted as effective, keeping the drive cool during prolonged use. Gamers appreciate the boosted loading times and the peace of mind offered by the 5-year warranty.
7. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2…
While our main focus is on 4TB drives, the Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink also comes in a 2TB variant, which is an equally stellar option for those who might not need a full 4TB but still demand top-tier performance. This SSD packs the same blazing speeds and advanced thermal management as its larger sibling, making it an incredible choice for a PS5 storage upgrade. With read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, it leverages the full potential of PCIe 4.0, offering a significant leap in performance for gaming and demanding applications. The ultra-slim integrated heatsink ensures cool, stable operation, making it fully PS5 compatible and a fantastic premium choice for expanding your game library.
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Key Features:
- 2TB Capacity (also available up to 4TB in the series)
- Blazing speeds: up to 7450MB/s read, 6900MB/s write
- Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO
- Integrated ultra-slim heatsink for superior temperature control
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops/laptops
- High-performance bandwidth for heavy computing
- From the world’s #1 flash memory brand
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Pros:
- Unmatched speeds for rapid game loading and responsiveness
- Top-tier random performance for fluid gaming
- Efficient, integrated heatsink ensures consistent performance
- Reliability and quality assurance from Samsung
- Excellent choice for those prioritizing raw speed and brand trust (even if 2TB is sufficient)
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Cons:
- 2TB capacity might be limiting for some users who prefer maximum storage.
- Premium pricing for the capacity compared to budget options.
User Impressions: This 2TB version of the Samsung 990 PRO receives the same stellar reviews as its 4TB counterpart, with users consistently praising its insane speed and dependable performance. It’s often highlighted as a “future-proof” upgrade that makes a tangible difference in the gaming experience, particularly for those who prefer to keep a curated selection of their favorite titles readily available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need an SSD with a heatsink for my PS5?
A: An SSD for your PS5, especially a high-performance PCIe Gen 4 NVMe drive, generates heat during operation. A heatsink is crucial because it helps dissipate this heat, preventing the drive from overheating. Overheating can lead to “thermal throttling,” where the SSD reduces its speed to cool down, negatively impacting your game’s performance and load times. Sony specifically recommends an M.2 SSD with a heatsink for the PS5.
Q2: What is PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 and why is it important for PS5?
A: PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 refers to the type and interface of the SSD.
– M.2: This is the form factor, a small stick-like card that slots directly into the PS5’s expansion slot.
– NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express): This is a communication protocol designed specifically for SSDs to communicate with the system’s CPU over PCIe, offering much faster speeds than older SATA protocols.
– PCIe Gen4: This is the generation of the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interface. Gen4 offers significantly higher bandwidth than Gen3, which is essential to meet the PS5’s demanding speed requirements for game data loading.
Q3: How do I install an SSD in my PS5?
A: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is surprisingly straightforward! You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver.
1. Completely power off your PS5 and unplug all cables.
2. Place your PS5 on its side and gently remove the side plate (the one without the disc drive slot on the standard model).
3. Locate the expansion slot cover and remove the screw holding it in place.
4. Remove the spacer and screw inside the M.2 slot.
5. Carefully insert your M.2 SSD into the slot, pushing it in firmly until it clicks.
6. Place the spacer at the correct length for your SSD (typically 80mm for most drives reviewed here) and secure the SSD with the screw.
7. Replace the expansion slot cover and the PS5 side plate.
8. Power on your PS5; it will prompt you to format the new SSD.
Q4: Is 4TB enough storage for my PS5?
A: For most gamers, 4TB is a massive amount of storage for a PS5 and should be more than enough to hold a very extensive library of games, including many large AAA titles. With games averaging 50-100GB (and some much larger), 4TB can comfortably store dozens, if not over a hundred, games without needing to constantly delete and redownload. It offers significant peace of mind and convenience.
Q5: What read/write speeds are recommended for a PS5 SSD?
A: Sony recommends an M.2 SSD with sequential read speeds of 5,500 MB/s or faster for optimal performance. All the drives reviewed here easily meet or exceed this requirement, ensuring that your games load quickly and seamlessly, just as the developers intended.
Q6: Can I use any M.2 SSD with a heatsink for my PS5?
A: Not just any. While it needs to be an M.2 NVMe SSD with a heatsink, it also must meet specific size and speed requirements:
– Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4
– Capacity: 250 GB – 8 TB
– Sequential Read Speed: 5,500 MB/s or faster
– Module Width: 22mm
– Form Factor: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110
– Heatsink Size: Including the heatsink, the total dimensions must be: Width: up to 25mm (0.98 inch), Length: 30mm-110mm (1.18 inch – 4.33 inch), Height: up to 11.25mm (0.44 inch). All SSDs reviewed here fit these criteria.
Q7: What are the benefits of a large 4TB SSD over smaller capacities?
A: A 4TB SSD offers several key advantages:
– Massive Game Library: Store virtually all your games without worrying about deleting titles.
– Future-Proofing: As games continue to grow in size, a 4TB drive ensures you’re ready for upcoming releases.
– Convenience: No more constant game management or re-downloading, saving you time and bandwidth.
– Better Value (sometimes): Often, larger capacity drives offer a better cost-per-gigabyte ratio than smaller ones.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SSD for your PS5 is a significant upgrade that enhances your gaming experience immensely. We’ve delved into some of the best options available, including several top-tier choices from Lexar. Whether you’re looking for the raw power of the Samsung 990 PRO, the clever efficiency of the Lexar NM790, or the gaming-focused design of the Lexar Play, there’s a fantastic 4TB solution for you.
Each of these drives offers incredible speed and comes with an integrated heatsink, ensuring your PS5 runs smoothly and your load times are drastically cut. While you might be specifically searching for the Lexar best 4tb ssd for ps5 with heatsink, the market offers several compelling contenders that stand shoulder to shoulder with Lexar’s excellent offerings. Ultimately, the “best” choice will depend on your specific priorities regarding speed, brand loyalty, and budget. Happy gaming!