Are you tired of staring at endless loading screens on your PlayStation 4? Does your console constantly remind you that you’re running out of storage space for your ever-growing game library? You’re not alone! Upgrading your PS4’s storage is one of the smartest moves you can make to breathe new life into your gaming setup, and a Solid State Drive (SSD) is the ultimate solution for faster performance.
Lexar is a well-known brand in the storage world, offering a range of reliable and speedy SSDs. But with so many options, how do you pick the Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS4? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, breaking down seven excellent Lexar 1TB SSD options that can help improve your PS4’s performance, reduce load times, and give you plenty of room for all your digital adventures. Whether you’re looking for an internal upgrade or a handy external drive, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
1. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
This Lexar ES3 external SSD is a fantastic option for PS4 users who want a simple, plug-and-play storage upgrade without cracking open their console. It’s incredibly portable, allowing you to take your games on the go or simply expand your PS4’s library with impressive speed and ease. The sleek, durable design means it’s built to withstand the rigors of everyday use, while its high-speed transfers ensure you spend less time waiting and more time gaming.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write via USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Wide Compatibility: Works with PS4, PS5, Xbox X|S, mobile devices, laptops, and more.
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, and durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick).
- Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Comes with a Type-C cable for convenience.
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for an external drive.
- Tool-free setup for PS4.
- Robust and ultra-portable design.
- Enhanced data security with encryption.
- Versatile compatibility across many devices.
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Cons:
- Performance might be lower if your device doesn’t fully support USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- External drive uses one of your PS4’s USB ports.
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User Impressions: Gamers love this drive for its effortless setup and noticeable speed improvements for game loading. Its compact size is frequently praised, making it a favorite for those who value portability and convenience. Many found it a straightforward and effective way to expand their PS4 game storage.
2. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
For the content creator and gamer who needs ultimate flexibility and speed, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with an integrated hub is a standout choice. While designed with professionals in mind, its blazing-fast performance and robust features make it a powerful external storage solution for your PS4. The added hub functionality means you can connect other peripherals, making it more than just a storage device – it’s a mobile workstation that can double as an epic game drive.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact and highly portable.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports.
- Blazing-fast performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Durable: Dust-proof, water-resistant (IP65), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for quick game transfers and loading.
- Built-in hub adds significant utility, especially for other devices.
- Outstanding durability for peace of mind.
- Very compact form factor.
- Longer warranty period.
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Cons:
- Might be overkill if you only need basic PS4 storage expansion.
- The wireless Type-C connection needs a firm insertion, which can be finicky.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the multifunctional aspect of this drive, especially professionals who use it for video and photo editing on the go. For PS4 users, the speed and ruggedness are major pluses, ensuring games load fast and the drive can handle accidental bumps or spills. It’s considered a premium, versatile solution.
3. Lexar 1TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
If you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY and want to give your PS4 an internal speed boost, the Lexar NS100 SSD is an excellent candidate. This 2.5-inch SATA III drive is a perfect drop-in replacement for your PS4’s existing hard disk drive (HDD). Swapping to this internal Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS4 will dramatically cut down on game loading times, system boot-up, and overall responsiveness, making your gaming experience much smoother and more enjoyable.
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Key Features:
- Designed to upgrade laptop or desktop computers (and PS4 consoles).
- Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s.
- More reliable and faster than traditional hard drives.
- Shock and vibration resistant due to no moving parts.
- [1TB] 480TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating.
- Three-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Significant performance upgrade for internal PS4 storage.
- Enhanced system stability and reliability.
- Silent operation compared to an HDD.
- Easy internal installation for PS4 (standard 2.5-inch form factor).
- Good endurance for long-term use.
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Cons:
- Requires opening your PS4 to install.
- SATA III speeds are slower than newer NVMe SSDs (though still much faster than PS4’s stock HDD).
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User Impressions: Many users who upgraded their laptops or PS4s with the NS100 report a night-and-day difference in speed. Load screens are shorter, and the system feels snappier. Its reliability and ease of installation (for those willing to do it) are frequently highlighted as key benefits.
4. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
The Lexar NM790 is a beast of an SSD, offering PCIe Gen4 NVMe speeds that are truly next-gen. While explicitly compatible with PlayStation 5 (where it truly shines), it’s important to note that the PS4 does not support NVMe M.2 drives internally. However, you can utilize this speed demon as an external drive for your PS4 by placing it in a compatible NVMe enclosure. This setup would provide incredibly fast data transfers for your PS4 games, especially if you’re frequently moving titles between your console and the drive.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance: Up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfers.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 (internally).
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds, ideal for future-proofing or PS5.
- Excellent power efficiency.
- High endurance and reliability.
- Longer warranty provides peace of mind.
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Cons:
- Requires an external NVMe enclosure to work with PS4.
- Overkill for PS4’s USB 3.0 bottleneck, meaning you won’t get its full potential speed.
- Primarily designed for PS5 or PC.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the speed and performance of the NM790, particularly in PS5 and high-end PC builds. While using it externally for a PS4 might not unlock its full potential, the sheer speed available makes transferring games incredibly quick.
5. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
This is essentially the same high-performance Lexar NM790 as above, but with the crucial addition of a pre-installed heatsink. This makes it particularly ideal for sustained heavy loads, like those experienced during intense gaming sessions on a PS5 or PC. For PS4 users, similar to its non-heatsink sibling, it would require an external enclosure. However, if you plan to eventually move this drive to a PS5 or a PC, the integrated heatsink is a massive advantage, ensuring optimal thermal management and consistent peak performance.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance: Up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth performance.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 (internally).
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Incredible speeds for next-gen gaming and demanding tasks.
- Heatsink prevents thermal throttling, ensuring sustained high performance.
- Excellent power efficiency.
- Robust and reliable with a solid warranty.
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Cons:
- Requires an external NVMe enclosure for PS4 use.
- The heatsink might make it tricky to fit into some enclosures (check dimensions).
- PS4’s USB 3.0 interface won’t fully utilize its Gen4 speeds.
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User Impressions: PS5 users rave about this SSD, citing seamless installation and a dramatic boost in game load times. The heatsink is particularly appreciated for maintaining performance during long gaming sessions. For PS4 owners considering a future-proof drive, it’s a tempting, albeit indirect, option.
6. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
Yes, we’re looking at the Lexar ES3 again, and for good reason! Its solid performance and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice if you’re searching for the Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS4 as an external solution. This specific listing reinforces its wide compatibility and focus on robust features that matter to everyday users. If you want hassle-free expansion, quick game transfers, and peace of mind with data security, the ES3 delivers. It’s a workhorse for both gaming and general data storage.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: Supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 (up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write).
- Wide Compatibility: Including PS4, PS5, Xbox X|S, iPhone 15 series, laptops, etc.
- On The Go: Extremely thin, light (42g), and durable metal design.
- Data Safety First: Features Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Plug-and-play convenience with an included Type-C cable.
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Pros:
- Noticeable improvement in PS4 game load times and transfers.
- Effortless external setup – just plug it in.
- Sleek, pocket-friendly design is perfect for portability.
- Integrated encryption for sensitive files.
- A reliable and proven performer for console gaming.
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Cons:
- Magsafe is not available in this version (irrelevant for PS4, but noted for other compatibility).
- External connectivity means another cable to manage.
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User Impressions: This Lexar ES3 continues to impress users with its blend of speed and practicality. Many appreciate its sturdy build quality and the fact that it just “works” right out of the box. It’s a highly recommended external SSD for gamers needing extra space and speed without much fuss.
7. Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
Pushing the boundaries of external storage, the Lexar SL500 Portable SSD offers incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, making it one of the fastest portable drives available. While the PS4 won’t fully utilize the Gen 2×2 speeds (as its USB ports are Gen 1/2), you’ll still experience top-tier performance for external PS4 storage. What truly makes this stand out is its advanced thermal control design, ensuring that even under heavy use, your drive maintains optimal temperatures and consistent high speeds. It’s a premium choice for serious gamers and content creators alike.
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Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance: Up to 2000MB/s read, 1800MB/s write.
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design.
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (iPhone 15 Pro/Max) – highlights its high-speed capability.
- Wide compatibility: PS4, PS5, Xbox X|S, mobile devices, laptops, cameras.
- Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures and sustained performance.
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Among the fastest external SSDs you can get.
- Superior thermal management for consistent performance.
- Robust, premium build quality.
- Versatile compatibility across many platforms.
- Excellent five-year limited warranty.
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Cons:
- PS4 won’t fully leverage the USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds.
- Higher price point compared to simpler external SSDs.
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User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed by the SL500’s blistering speeds and sleek, premium feel. iPhone 15 Pro users love its Pro Res recording capability, but for PS4 gamers, the consistent, fast performance and durable build are the main draws. It’s seen as a high-end, reliable external storage solution.
FAQ: All Your Lexar 1TB SSD for PS4 Questions Answered
Q1: Is an SSD upgrade worth it for my PS4?
A: Absolutely! Upgrading your PS4’s storage to an SSD, whether internal or external, can significantly reduce game loading times, improve texture pop-in, and make your console feel much snappier overall. It’s one of the best performance upgrades you can make for your PS4.
Q2: Can I install a Lexar internal SSD in my PS4?
A: Yes, you can! The PS4 uses a standard 2.5-inch SATA III hard drive. The Lexar NS100 2.5 Inch SATA III SSD (Product 3 in our list) is a perfect fit for an internal upgrade. You’ll need to back up your data, swap the drive, and reinstall the PS4 system software.
Q3: What’s the difference between internal and external SSDs for PS4?
A: An internal SSD replaces your PS4’s original hard drive, becoming the primary storage. This offers the best potential speed improvements as it’s directly integrated. An external SSD connects via a USB port, providing additional storage space for your games. While still much faster than an HDD, external SSDs are limited by the PS4’s USB 3.0 port speeds, meaning they won’t be quite as fast as an optimally performing internal SSD.
Q4: How do I install an external Lexar SSD on my PS4?
A: Installing an external SSD like the Lexar ES3 or SL500 is incredibly easy! Simply plug the SSD into one of your PS4’s USB 3.0 ports. Go to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices, select the Lexar SSD, and choose “Format as Extended Storage.” Your PS4 will then format the drive, and you can start moving or downloading games to it.
Q5: Will a Lexar 1TB SSD significantly improve PS4 load times?
A: Yes, you’ll definitely notice a difference! Games will load much faster, often cutting load screens by 20-50% or more, depending on the game and whether it’s an internal or external SSD. This is because SSDs have no moving parts and can access data almost instantaneously, unlike traditional HDDs.
Q6: Are all Lexar 1TB SSDs compatible with PS4?
A: Most Lexar external 1TB SSDs that connect via USB (like the ES3, Professional Go, or SL500) are compatible as extended storage for the PS4. For internal upgrades, you need a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD like the Lexar NS100. NVMe M.2 drives (like the NM790) are not internally compatible with the PS4 but can be used externally with an appropriate NVMe enclosure.
Q7: Do I need to format a new Lexar SSD for my PS4?
A: Yes, if you’re using an external Lexar SSD, you’ll need to format it as “Extended Storage” through your PS4’s system settings. If you’re installing an internal SSD, the PS4 will prompt you to reinstall the system software, which includes formatting the drive for console use. Always follow the PS4’s on-screen instructions during these processes.
Final Thoughts on the Lexar Best 1TB SSD for PS4
Choosing the Lexar best 1TB SSD for PS4 really comes down to your personal preference: do you want a straightforward external expansion, or are you ready for an internal upgrade? For plug-and-play convenience and solid speed, external drives like the Lexar ES3 or the faster SL500 are fantastic choices. If you’re after the absolute best internal performance boost for your original PS4 or PS4 Pro, the Lexar NS100 SATA III SSD is your go-to.
No matter which Lexar 1TB SSD you pick, you’re investing in a smoother, faster, and more enjoyable gaming experience. Say goodbye to laggy load times and hello to more gaming action!