Are you tired of those agonizingly long loading screens on your PlayStation 4? Does your console feel sluggish, or are you constantly juggling game installs because you’ve run out of space? You’re not alone! The PS4, while a fantastic console, can definitely benefit from a storage upgrade, especially as modern game sizes balloon.
Enter the solid-state drive (SSD) – a game-changer for speed and efficiency. When it comes to reliable and performance-driven storage, Lexar is a name that often comes up. If you’re looking for the Lexar best 2TB SSD for PS4 to breathe new life into your gaming sessions, you’ve landed in the right place. We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive review of seven top Lexar 2TB SSDs that can significantly enhance your PS4 experience, whether you’re looking for an internal boost or external flexibility. Let’s dive in and find your next upgrade!
Why Upgrade Your PS4 with a 2TB SSD?
Even though the PS4 isn’t the newest kid on the block, upgrading its storage can make a huge difference. Here’s why you should consider a 2TB Lexar SSD:
- Blazing Fast Load Times: SSDs read and write data significantly faster than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). This means less waiting for games to load, levels to render, and saves to process. You’ll spend more time playing and less time staring at a loading bar.
- Expanded Storage Capacity: Modern games are massive! A 2TB SSD gives you ample room for dozens of your favorite titles, DLC, and media without constantly deleting games to make space for new ones.
- Smoother Gameplay: While not a direct frame rate boost, faster data access can contribute to a more responsive overall gaming experience, especially in open-world games.
- Durability and Reliability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resistant to drops and impacts than HDDs. They’re also generally quieter and consume less power.
- Future-Proofing (for external use): Many Lexar SSDs, even those designed for PS5, can be excellent external drives for your PS4, giving you flexibility.
How to Choose the Right Lexar 2TB SSD for Your PS4
Before you pick a drive, remember this crucial point:
* Internal PS4 Upgrade: The PS4 uses a 2.5-inch SATA III drive internally. So, only 2.5-inch SATA SSDs can be installed inside the console.
* External PS4 Upgrade: Any portable or M.2 NVMe SSD (with an appropriate enclosure) can be connected externally via the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports. While these drives can be incredibly fast, their speed will be limited by the PS4’s USB 3.0 interface to around 5 Gbps (or ~625 MB/s). Still, this is often much faster than the internal HDD!
Now, let’s check out the top contenders for the Lexar best 2TB SSD for PS4!
The 7 Top Lexar Best 2TB SSD for PS4 Reviews
1. Lexar 2TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe M.2 2280
This Lexar Play SSD is primarily engineered for the raw power of the PS5 and PC gaming, boasting incredible PCIe Gen 4 speeds. However, its advanced performance and generous 2TB capacity make it a fantastic, albeit high-end, external storage option for your PS4 when paired with a compatible USB 3.0/3.1 external NVMe enclosure. While you won’t get the full Gen 4 speeds on PS4, it’ll still deliver a significant upgrade over the console’s stock HDD, slashing load times for your favorite titles. The included heatsink is a bonus, ensuring optimal temperature management even when pushing it hard.
- Key Features:
- Designed for PS5 and PC gaming, excellent for PS4 external use (with enclosure)
- Up to 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds (on compatible Gen 4 systems)
- 2TB capacity with 1600TBW endurance
- Integrated heatsink for enhanced cooling
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Extremely high performance for future-proofing or PC use
- Included heatsink for optimal thermal management
- Robust endurance rating
- Excellent for significantly faster external PS4 game storage
- Cons:
- Requires a separate external enclosure for PS4 use
- PS4’s USB 3.0 interface limits its full speed potential
- Higher cost due to Gen 4 technology
- User Impressions: Gamers love the sheer speed this drive offers for PS5 and PC, praising its reliability and the effectiveness of the heatsink. PS4 users appreciate it as a premium external solution, noting noticeable improvements in load times despite the USB bottleneck.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 2TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
If you’re looking for the classic internal upgrade for your PS4, the Lexar NS100 2.5-inch SATA III SSD is an absolute champion. This drive is perfectly sized and designed to slot right into your PS4, replacing the slow mechanical hard drive. You’ll immediately notice snappier boot times, quicker menu navigation, and dramatically reduced load times in all your games. It’s a straightforward, cost-effective way to get a significant performance boost and double your storage without needing any external enclosures. This is truly a contender for the Lexar best 2TB SSD for PS4 internal upgrade.
- Key Features:
- 2.5-inch SATA III form factor, ideal for internal PS4 upgrade
- 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
- 960TBW endurance for the 2TB model
- Three-year limited product support
- Pros:
- Perfect fit for internal PS4 replacement
- Significant speed improvement over stock HDD
- Cost-effective solution
- Enhanced durability and reliability
- Cons:
- Slower than NVMe external SSDs (when connected via USB 3.0)
- Requires opening the PS4 console for installation
- User Impressions: Users frequently report satisfaction with the NS100, highlighting the noticeable boost in PS4 performance, especially for game loading. Its ease of installation as an internal drive is a big plus for DIY upgraders.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is a sleek, pocket-sized powerhouse that brings serious speed and convenience to your gaming setup. Its USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance means incredibly fast transfers, making it fantastic for moving large game files or for playing directly from the drive on your PS4. Its wide compatibility (including PS4, PS5, Xbox, and mobile devices) makes it super versatile. If you want a fast, stylish, and durable external drive that you can easily take anywhere, this is a prime candidate.
- Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write (on compatible systems)
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design
- Wide compatibility with PS4, PS5, Xbox X|S, mobile devices, etc.
- Unique Thermal Control Design for 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
- Pros:
- Excellent speed for external PS4 storage (limited by PS4 USB 3.0)
- Extremely portable and stylish design
- Robust metal casing for durability
- Plug-and-play convenience
- Cons:
- PS4’s USB 3.0 port limits its full potential speeds
- Might be overkill if you only need basic external storage
- User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the SL500’s compact design and its robust build quality. Many highlight its rapid transfer speeds and ease of use across various devices, including gaming consoles.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
The Lexar ES3 External SSD offers a fantastic balance of speed, durability, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for expanding your PS4’s game library. With read speeds up to 1050MB/s, it’s significantly faster than any traditional HDD and will drastically cut down your PS4 game loading times when connected externally. It’s also built to last, with drop resistance up to 2 meters and integrated graphite sheets for efficient heat dissipation. This means your drive stays cool even during intense gaming sessions.
- Key Features:
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
- Super-fast backups and instant storage expansion
- Built-in double-layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software and Recovery Tool
- Pros:
- Very fast external storage for PS4
- Highly durable with drop resistance
- Excellent thermal management
- Versatile connectivity with included cable
- Cons:
- Speeds are still capped by PS4’s USB 3.0 interface
- A bit bulkier than some ultra-compact portable SSDs
- User Impressions: Reviewers love the ES3’s solid build and its impressive speed for an external drive. The drop resistance provides peace of mind, and the inclusion of both USB-C and USB-A connectivity is a huge convenience.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Similar to the Lexar Play SSD, the NM790 with a heatsink is a high-performance PCIe Gen 4 NVMe drive built for the cutting-edge demands of the PS5 and high-end PCs. Its blazing speeds of up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write are truly impressive. For PS4 users, this would serve as an elite external gaming drive (again, requiring an external enclosure). While the PS4 won’t fully utilize its Gen 4 speeds, you’ll still experience top-tier performance for an external drive. The integrated heatsink is particularly effective, keeping temperatures down for sustained performance and reliability.
- Key Features:
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write (on Gen 4 systems)
- 1500TBW endurance for the 2TB model
- Designed with a heatsink to keep the drive cool
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfers
- Compatible with PlayStation 5, excellent for PS4 external use (with enclosure)
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Incredibly fast for future-proofing or PC gaming
- Integrated heatsink ensures optimal thermal performance
- High efficiency and low power consumption
- Premium external storage option for PS4
- Cons:
- Requires an external NVMe enclosure for PS4
- PS4’s USB 3.0 interface bottleneck its true speed
- Higher price point for high-end technology
- User Impressions: This drive receives accolades for its raw speed and efficiency, especially in PS5 and PC setups. Users highlight the effectiveness of the heatsink and the noticeable performance gains for demanding applications and games. PS4 users find it a premium, reliable external solution.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD is more than just a storage device; it’s a creative and gaming hub. What makes this stand out for PS4 users is its dual functionality: a fast external SSD combined with a built-in hub. This is incredibly handy for those who need extra USB ports for accessories or who want to connect other devices on the go. Its rugged design, including IP65 dust and water resistance, means it can handle the wear and tear of being a go-to external drive, perfect for gamers who travel or want extra protection.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact portable SSD with an integrated hub (four USB Type-C ports)
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (comes with adapters/cables)
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Dust-proof and water-resistant (rated IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Unique integrated hub offers extra connectivity
- Highly durable and resistant to elements
- Great external speeds for PS4 gaming
- Extremely compact and versatile
- Cons:
- PS4’s USB 3.0 still limits peak performance
- The hub functionality might be overkill for some users
- User Impressions: Users love the innovative design of the Professional Go, especially the integrated hub which makes it a versatile tool for creatives and gamers alike. Its ruggedness and impressive transfer speeds are frequently praised.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
This version of the Lexar NM790 SSD is the “heatsink-less” sibling, offering the same phenomenal PCIe Gen 4 performance (up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write) without the pre-attached heatsink. This makes it a great choice for PS5 users who want to use their own heatsink or for PC gamers with integrated cooling solutions. For PS4 owners, like the other NVMe drives, it functions as an incredibly fast external drive when placed in a USB 3.0/3.1 NVMe enclosure. It’s designed for hardcore gamers and professionals, delivering top-tier speed and power efficiency, making it a powerful contender for the Lexar best 2TB SSD for PS4 as an external solution.
- Key Features:
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write (on Gen 4 systems)
- 1500TBW endurance for the 2TB model
- 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, excellent for PS4 external use (with enclosure)
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
- Pros:
- Blazing fast speeds for future-proof performance
- Highly power-efficient
- Robust endurance rating
- Excellent for use as a high-performance external PS4 drive
- Cons:
- Requires an external NVMe enclosure for PS4
- PS4’s USB 3.0 interface limits its full speed potential
- Doesn’t include a heatsink (though one isn’t needed for external PS4 use)
- User Impressions: Users are thoroughly impressed by the NM790’s raw speed and efficiency, making it a popular choice for high-performance PC builds and PS5 upgrades. Its reliability and sustained performance without a pre-attached heatsink (allowing for custom cooling) are often highlighted.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What kind of SSD does the PS4 use internally?
The PS4 uses a 2.5-inch SATA III HDD internally. If you want to replace your internal drive, you’ll need a 2.5-inch SATA SSD. All other types, like NVMe M.2 drives, can only be used externally with a compatible enclosure.
Q2: Can I use a 2TB SSD internally in my PS4?
Yes, absolutely! The Lexar NS100 2.5-inch SATA III SSD is a perfect example of a drive you can install internally in your PS4. This is the best way to get the most direct speed improvement for your system’s boot times and internal game loading.
Q3: What are the main benefits of upgrading to a Lexar 2TB SSD for PS4?
You’ll experience dramatically reduced game loading times, faster system boot-ups, quicker menu navigation, and significantly more storage capacity for your game library. Lexar SSDs also offer enhanced durability and reliability compared to traditional HDDs.
Q4: How do I install an external Lexar SSD on my PS4?
It’s super easy! Just connect the external Lexar SSD to one of your PS4’s USB 3.0 ports using the appropriate cable. Go to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices on your PS4, select the Lexar drive, and format it as extended storage. Your PS4 will then manage game installations on the external drive automatically.
Q5: Will a PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD (like the Lexar Play or NM790) work with my PS4?
Yes, but only externally with a suitable NVMe enclosure that connects via USB 3.0 or higher. While these drives are incredibly fast on compatible systems (like PS5 or PC), the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports will limit their speed to approximately 5 Gbps (~625 MB/s). Still, this is much faster than the PS4’s internal HDD and provides excellent external game storage.
Q6: How much faster will my PS4 be with a Lexar SSD?
You can expect significantly faster load times, often cutting them down by 30-50% or even more for some games. Boot-up times and general system responsiveness will also see a noticeable improvement. While it won’t boost in-game frame rates, the overall fluidity of your gaming experience will be much better.
Q7: Is Lexar a good brand for PS4 SSDs?
Yes, Lexar is a well-established and reputable brand in the flash memory and storage industry. They are known for producing reliable, high-performance SSDs that offer great value. Their drives are often highly rated by users for durability and speed, making them a solid choice for your PS4 upgrade.
Q8: What’s the difference between an internal and external SSD for PS4?
An internal SSD replaces the original hard drive inside your PS4. It requires opening the console but provides the fastest possible direct access for the PS4’s operating system and installed games. An external SSD connects via USB and is used as “extended storage” for games. It’s easier to install (plug-and-play), offers portability, but its speeds are capped by the PS4’s USB 3.0 port.
Final Thoughts: Level Up Your Gaming!
Upgrading your PlayStation 4 with a 2TB Lexar SSD is one of the best ways to rejuvenate your console and significantly enhance your gaming experience. Whether you opt for the simplicity of an internal SATA drive like the NS100 or harness the power of an external NVMe solution with an enclosure, Lexar offers a range of high-quality options.
Consider your budget, ease of installation preference, and whether you want internal or external storage. No matter which of these fantastic Lexar drives you choose, you’ll be saying goodbye to agonizing load times and hello to more seamless, enjoyable gaming. It’s time to truly unlock your PS4’s potential!