Are you tired of sluggish load times, constant file transfers, or running out of storage space on your gaming rig or workstation? It sounds like it’s time for a serious upgrade! In today’s digital world, a speedy and capacious solid-state drive (SSD) isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. And when it comes to balancing blistering performance with ample room for all your games, projects, and media, a 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD is often the sweet spot.
These tiny titans pack a punch, offering lightning-fast data transfer speeds and incredible efficiency, all in a form factor no bigger than a stick of gum. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best 4TB M.2 SSD for your needs? Don’t sweat it! We’ve dug deep to bring you a hand-picked selection of the top contenders that truly stand out.
Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a creative professional dealing with huge files, or just someone who wants their PC to fly, one of these drives is sure to be the perfect fit. Let’s dive into our top picks for the best 4TB M.2 SSDs available right now!
1. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4×4
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus is a compelling option for those seeking a modern and efficient storage solution. It cleverly balances next-gen performance with excellent power efficiency, making it a versatile choice for both high-performance desktop builds and power-conscious laptops. With its cutting-edge NAND memory and intelligent TurboWrite technology, this drive ensures you’re getting rapid speeds for everything from colossal file transfers to demanding applications, all while keeping cool and sipping power.
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Key Features:
- Groundbreaking sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.
- Enhanced large-file performance with Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0.
- Exceptional thermal control via an efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller.
- Optimized to support PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility.
- Keeps performing like new with Magician Software updates and monitoring.
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Pros:
- Excellent read and write speeds for most users.
- Impressive power efficiency, great for laptops and battery life.
- Future-proof compatibility with PCIe 5.0 x2 (though at reduced lanes).
- Samsung’s Magician software is a powerful tool for drive management.
- Superior thermal management for sustained performance.
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Cons:
- Not a full PCIe Gen5 drive, so doesn’t offer max Gen5 speeds.
- Performance might not match top-tier Gen4 drives in all scenarios.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise the 990 EVO Plus for its noticeable speed boost in everyday tasks and gaming, often highlighting its low heat output and easy installation. Many appreciate the Samsung Magician software for keeping the drive optimized. It’s often seen as a solid all-rounder.
2. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal
When it comes to raw, unadulterated speed on the PCIe Gen4 platform, the Samsung 990 PRO is in a league of its own. Designed for the most demanding users – from hardcore gamers to professional video editors and data analysts – this drive pushes the boundaries of what PCIe 4.0 can deliver. It boasts incredible sequential and random performance, ensuring near-instantaneous load times and seamless handling of heavy computing tasks. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a significant leap in system responsiveness.
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Key Features:
- Near max PCIe 4.0 performance with lightning-fast speeds.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- More than 55% improvement in random performance over its predecessor (980 PRO).
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB, catering to extensive storage needs.
- Up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO, enhancing power efficiency.
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Pros:
- Among the fastest PCIe Gen4 SSDs available.
- Exceptional random read/write performance, crucial for gaming and heavy workloads.
- Industry-leading reliability from Samsung, a top flash memory brand.
- Excellent power efficiency for its performance tier.
- Ideal for professional content creation and competitive gaming.
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Cons:
- Premium price point reflects its top-tier performance.
- Might be overkill for casual users who won’t fully utilize its speeds.
User Impressions: Users consistently report that the 990 PRO transforms their system, with games loading almost instantly and large files transferring in a blink. It’s highly recommended by gamers and professionals alike for its consistent, top-tier performance and reliability.
3. Crucial P310 4TB PCIe Gen4 2280 NVMe M.2 SSD
The Crucial P310 offers an intriguing proposition for those looking for a power-efficient PCIe Gen4 solution. While Crucial also has the P3 Plus, the P310 emphasizes an outstanding performance-to-power ratio. This makes it particularly appealing for laptop users or anyone building a system where energy consumption and heat generation are key concerns, without entirely sacrificing the benefits of a modern Gen4 interface. It’s a smart choice for balancing speed and efficiency.
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Key Features:
- Provides up to 40% better performance-to-power ratio than Crucial’s previous Gen4 SSDs.
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Pros:
- Exceptional power efficiency, leading to longer battery life in laptops.
- Reduced heat generation, which is beneficial for compact systems.
- Offers Gen4 speeds at an attractive efficiency point.
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks and moderate workloads.
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Cons:
- Maximum speeds are generally lower than high-end Gen4 drives.
- May not be suitable for extreme, sustained heavy workloads.
User Impressions: Users often highlight the P310’s cool operation and its suitability for laptop upgrades. They appreciate the noticeable speed improvement over SATA drives while enjoying extended battery life. It’s seen as a solid, practical upgrade for many.
4. Crucial P3 Plus 4TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2
The Crucial P3 Plus is a fantastic value-oriented option that brings the benefits of PCIe Gen4 technology to a wider audience. It’s designed to offer a significant speed bump over older Gen3 NVMe SSDs, making it a compelling upgrade for users who want faster boot times, quicker application launches, and generally snappier system responsiveness without breaking the bank. With a spacious 4TB capacity and impressive longevity ratings, it’s a reliable workhorse for everyday computing and casual gaming.
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Key Features:
- NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology with up to 5000MB/s sequential reads.
- Random read/write up to 650K/900K IOPS.
- Performs up to 43% faster than the fastest Gen3 NVMe SSDs.
- Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity.
- Backward compatibility with Gen3 systems.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for a PCIe Gen4 drive.
- Significantly faster than Gen3 SSDs.
- High endurance and reliability rating for peace of mind.
- Spacious 4TB capacity for extensive storage.
- Backward compatibility ensures broad system support.
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Cons:
- Speeds are not as high as top-tier Gen4 drives.
- Might not be ideal for users requiring extreme, sustained performance.
User Impressions: Customers are generally thrilled with the performance upgrade the P3 Plus provides, especially coming from older SATA or Gen3 drives. Its affordability combined with Gen4 speeds and large capacity makes it a popular choice for gamers and general users alike.
5. WD_BLACK 4TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
Designed with serious gamers in mind, the WD_BLACK SN7100 is built to deliver high-octane performance where it matters most: game loading times and asset streaming. While listed here as a 4TB model, the SN7100 family spans various capacities up to 4TB, making it a strong contender for those needing ample space for their ever-growing game libraries. It harnesses PCIe Gen4 and Western Digital’s advanced TLC 3D NAND to ensure a smooth, responsive gaming experience, coupled with excellent power efficiency for longer gaming sessions on portable devices.
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Key Features:
- High-octane gaming performance with speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (for 1-2TB models).
- Purpose-built for serious on-the-go gamers with PCIe Gen4 interface.
- Available in capacities up to 4TB for extensive game libraries.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- Optimized with downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for prime performance.
- Up to 2,400TBW endurance (4TB model) for intense usage.
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for gaming and demanding applications.
- Outstanding power efficiency, perfect for gaming laptops and handhelds.
- High endurance rating ensures long-term reliability.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard provides useful monitoring and optimization tools.
- Reliable performance from a reputable brand.
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Cons:
- Top speeds are for lower capacities, may vary slightly for 4TB (though still excellent).
- Dashboard software is Windows-only.
User Impressions: Gamers consistently rave about the SN7100’s ability to drastically cut down load times and improve in-game fluidity. Its power efficiency is a major plus for laptop users, and the WD_BLACK ecosystem is well-regarded.
6. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN850X is Western Digital’s flagship offering for those who demand the absolute peak of PCIe Gen4 performance. This drive isn’t just fast; it’s ridiculously fast, designed to transform your PC into a high-performance machine for gaming, content creation, and professional workstations. With insane speeds, optional heatsink versions for optimal thermal management, and advanced features like Game Mode 2.0, the SN850X ensures you’re always ahead of the curve, minimizing load times and maximizing responsiveness.
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Key Features:
- Top-tier performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- Capacities up to 8TB (including 4TB) built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
- Optional heatsink version available for sustained peak performance.
- Downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for health monitoring and RGB customization.
- Future-forward features including Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
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Pros:
- One of the fastest PCIe Gen4 SSDs on the market.
- Excellent for competitive gaming and professional workstations.
- Optional heatsink ensures optimal thermal performance under heavy loads.
- Advanced features like Game Mode 2.0 enhance gaming experience.
- High capacities suitable for massive game libraries and large projects.
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Cons:
- Premium price point, reflecting its top-tier performance.
- Heatsink version might not fit all laptop or compact desktop builds.
User Impressions: Users report a “night and day” difference in system responsiveness and game loading. The SN850X is highly praised by power users and gamers who want the best possible performance without stepping into PCIe Gen5. The optional heatsink is a big plus for sustained heavy use.
7. Empowered PC TEAMGROUP T-Force G50 4TB PCIe Gen4x4 M.2
The TEAMGROUP T-Force G50 is an excellent example of a value-packed PCIe Gen4 SSD that doesn’t compromise on essential performance. It’s designed for DIY enthusiasts, gamers, and creators who want faster boot times and quicker application launches without breaking the bank. Leveraging an InnoGrit DRAM-less controller with HMB and SLC caching, it delivers a noticeable performance boost. Plus, its patented graphene heat spreader and high TBW rating make it a reliable and durable choice for both PCs and PS5 console expansions.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read speeds up to 5,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 4,500 MB/s.
- InnoGrit IG5220 DRAM-less controller with Host Memory Buffer (HMB) support.
- Utilizes PCIe Gen4x4 interface with NVMe 1.4 protocol.
- Robust 2600 TBW (Terabytes Written) rating for outstanding longevity.
- Features 3D TLC NAND flash and SLC caching technology for burst performance.
- Includes a patented graphene heat spreader for efficient thermal management.
- Compatible with Intel, AMD, Windows, Mac, Linux platforms, and PS5 SSD expansion.
- Comes with TEAMGROUP’s patented S.M.A.R.T. software for monitoring.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance-to-price ratio for a Gen4 drive.
- High endurance rating ensures reliability for years.
- Effective passive cooling with graphene heat spreader.
- Wide compatibility, including PS5.
- 5-year limited warranty provides peace of mind.
- Great value for gamers and content creators on a budget.
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Cons:
- DRAM-less design might show performance dips in extremely heavy, sustained random writes compared to DRAM-equipped drives.
- Speeds are mid-range for Gen4, not top-tier.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend the T-Force G50 for its affordability combined with solid Gen4 performance. Its PS5 compatibility is a significant draw, and many appreciate the included heat spreader for hassle-free installation and consistent performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What does “M.2” mean for an SSD?
A: M.2 refers to a small form factor for SSDs, making them look like a stick of gum. It allows for direct connection to the motherboard, reducing cable clutter and enabling faster speeds, especially when combined with NVMe technology.
Q2: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen3, Gen4, and Gen5 for SSDs?
A: These terms refer to different generations of the PCI Express interface, which dictates the maximum theoretical speed of the SSD. Each generation roughly doubles the bandwidth of the previous one. Gen3 offers speeds up to ~3,500 MB/s, Gen4 up to ~7,000 MB/s, and Gen5 can reach up to ~14,000 MB/s. For most users, Gen4 provides a significant performance leap, while Gen5 is bleeding-edge.
Q3: Do I need a heatsink for my 4TB M.2 SSD?
A: It depends on the drive’s performance tier and your usage. High-performance PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 SSDs can generate significant heat during sustained heavy loads (like large file transfers or intense gaming), which can lead to thermal throttling (slower speeds). For these drives, a heatsink is highly recommended. Many motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can purchase an SSD with a pre-attached one.
Q4: Is a 4TB SSD enough storage for gaming and general use?
A: For most users, yes, 4TB is ample. Modern games can be very large (100GB+), but a 4TB drive allows you to install dozens of AAA titles, plus your operating system, software, and personal files, with plenty of room to spare. It offers a great balance between capacity and performance without constant data management.
Q5: Can I use these M.2 SSDs in a PlayStation 5 (PS5)?
A: Yes, many PCIe Gen4 M.2 SSDs, especially those with sequential read speeds of 5,500 MB/s or higher and an integrated or attachable heatsink, are compatible with the PS5’s expansion slot. Always check the specific drive’s compatibility and ensure it meets Sony’s requirements for size and speed.
Q6: What is TBW (Terabytes Written) and why is it important?
A: TBW stands for Terabytes Written and is an endurance rating for SSDs. It indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its reliability may be compromised. A higher TBW rating means the drive is expected to last longer under heavy write workloads. For a 4TB drive, a TBW of 2,000 TBW or more is excellent and signifies long-term durability.
Q7: Will a new 4TB M.2 SSD improve my computer’s boot time and application loading?
A: Absolutely! Upgrading from a traditional hard drive (HDD) or an older SATA SSD to a modern PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD will dramatically improve boot times, application loading, file transfers, and overall system responsiveness. The difference is usually very noticeable and is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make.