Is your PS4 Pro feeling sluggish? Are those loading screens taking forever, pulling you out of the action? Upgrading your console’s storage with a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the most impactful ways to breathe new life into it. If you’re specifically searching for the Lexar best 500gb ssd for ps4 pro, you’re on the right track towards faster game loads, smoother gameplay, and a much-improved overall gaming experience.
While a dedicated 500GB Lexar external SSD for PS4 Pro might be a specific niche, we’ve done the legwork to bring you a comprehensive list. We’ll explore excellent Lexar drives that offer fantastic performance and compatibility, often in larger capacities that provide even more bang for your buck. We’ve also included a highly compatible 500GB option to perfectly match your desired capacity. Whether you’re looking for simple plug-and-play external storage or considering other robust Lexar options, you’ll find top-tier choices here.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect SSD to supercharge your PS4 Pro!
1. BUFFALO External SSD 500GB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5
If a direct 500GB SSD for your PS4 Pro is exactly what you’re after, the Buffalo External SSD is a fantastic, no-nonsense choice. This compact and reliable drive offers a straightforward solution to expand your console’s storage and significantly cut down on game loading times. It’s built for durability and convenience, making it ideal for gamers who want a simple, effective upgrade without breaking the bank. Just plug it in via USB, and you’re ready to store more games and jump into the action faster.
-
Key Features:
- Best value SSD for on-the-go demand.
- Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs.
- Ideal on-the-go accessory for fast data copying.
- Faster speeds than traditional HDDs.
- Compact, durable, and reliable with shock-resistant design.
- USB 3.2 Connectivity (USB-C / USB-A compatible).
- Includes a 3-year warranty for registered devices (2 years unregistered).
-
Pros:
- Directly matches the 500GB capacity you might be looking for.
- Excellent value for money.
- Plug-and-play ease of use with PS4 Pro.
- Rugged design offers good protection.
- Significantly reduces game loading times.
-
Cons:
- Not a Lexar branded product, if brand loyalty is a primary concern.
- Performance might not match high-end NVMe drives (though still a huge upgrade for PS4 Pro).
-
User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise this Buffalo SSD for its incredible ease of use and noticeable speed improvements on their consoles. Many appreciate its robust build quality and the peace of mind that comes with reliable external storage. It’s often highlighted as a perfect budget-friendly upgrade.
2. Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible
While you might be searching for the Lexar best 500gb ssd for ps4 pro, sometimes a little (or a lot!) more storage capacity is a brilliant investment. The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD in its 4TB iteration offers immense space and incredible speed. This drive is a powerhouse, delivering super-fast read/write speeds, making it not just a PS4 Pro storage solution but a versatile external drive for content creators, PC gamers, and anyone needing rapid, high-capacity storage on the go. Its sleek, thin metal design means it won’t add bulk, and its thermal control keeps things cool even during demanding tasks.
-
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 (iPhone 15 Pro/Max).
- Wide compatibility: mobile devices, iPhone, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
- Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures.
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Five-year limited warranty.
-
Pros:
- Massive 4TB storage capacity for a huge game library.
- Blazing-fast speeds for incredibly quick transfers and game loads.
- Excellent build quality and portability.
- Works across a wide range of devices, including PS4 Pro (via USB).
- Advanced security features.
-
Cons:
- Significantly larger capacity and price point than a 500GB drive.
- PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 port won’t fully utilize the drive’s maximum 2000MB/s speed.
-
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the Lexar SL500’s speed and reliability. Many highlight its premium feel and the sheer convenience of having such a large, fast storage solution that’s still incredibly portable. It’s a favorite among those who juggle large files, games, and multimedia.
3. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
For those who are not only looking for a Lexar best 500gb ssd for ps4 pro but also need ultimate flexibility and portability, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a unique offering. While it comes in a 1TB capacity, its standout feature is the integrated hub, transforming it into a versatile workstation on the go. This SSD is ultra-compact, built to withstand the elements, and delivers solid performance, making it an excellent choice for creators and gamers alike who need more than just simple storage.
-
Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for spontaneous creativity.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector frees you from cables.
- Captures brilliant Apple ProRes footage with ease.
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, adapters, and cables for ultimate flexibility.
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Dust-proof, water-resistant (IP65 rated), and drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
-
Pros:
- Unique built-in hub offers exceptional versatility for creators.
- Excellent read/write speeds, beneficial for PS4 Pro game loads.
- Extremely durable and travel-ready.
- Compact and highly portable.
-
Cons:
- The hub feature might be overkill for some PS4 Pro users only seeking storage.
- Higher price point due to additional hub functionality.
- 1TB capacity is more than 500GB (though often a benefit).
-
User Impressions: This Lexar SSD is particularly loved by mobile content creators and photographers who appreciate its integrated hub and robust design. Gamers find it provides reliable, fast storage, and the extra ports can be handy for other peripherals if connected to a PC.
4. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s, Compatible
Another stellar option from Lexar, the 2TB SL500 Portable SSD strikes a fantastic balance between capacity, performance, and portability. If 500GB feels a bit small and 4TB is more than you need, this 2TB version could be your sweet spot for a Lexar best 500gb ssd for ps4 pro alternative. It shares all the incredible features of its larger sibling, offering phenomenal speeds and a durable, sleek design. It’s a superb choice for gamers who want ample space for their digital library without compromising on speed or portability for their PS4 Pro.
-
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 (iPhone 15 Pro/Max).
- Wide compatibility: mobile devices, iPhone, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
- Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures.
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Five-year limited warranty.
-
Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity to store a vast collection of PS4 Pro games.
- Extremely fast for game transfers and reduced load times.
- Premium, durable metal construction.
- Highly versatile across multiple platforms.
- Lexar DataShield provides file security.
-
Cons:
- PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 will bottleneck the max potential speed.
- Higher price point than a 500GB entry-level drive.
-
User Impressions: Similar to the 4TB model, users consistently praise the 2TB Lexar SL500 for its impressive speed and robust build. It’s often recommended as a perfect upgrade for console gamers and professionals alike who need substantial, fast, and reliable external storage.
5. Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
The Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is another strong contender for those seeking reliable external storage, even if it’s double the 500GB capacity you initially considered for your Lexar best 500gb ssd for ps4 pro search. This drive prioritizes speed, portability, and security in a stylish package. Its slim profile and light weight make it barely noticeable, whether it’s sitting next to your PS4 Pro or tucked into your pocket. With USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, it offers excellent data transfer rates for all your gaming and personal files.
-
Key Features:
- High-speed data transfer: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Wide compatibility: iPhone 15 series, Android devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5.
- On-the-go design: thin, stylish, durable metal, weighs 42g, only 10.5mm thick.
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
-
Pros:
- Excellent transfer speeds for boosting PS4 Pro performance.
- Extremely portable and stylish design.
- Broad compatibility with various devices.
- Includes robust 256-bit AES encryption for data safety.
- Great value for a 1TB external SSD.
-
Cons:
- PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 will limit the maximum transfer speed.
- Not specifically 500GB, but offers more space for future games.
-
User Impressions: Customers love the Lexar ES3 for its sleek design, feather-light weight, and impressive speed. It’s often highlighted as a reliable and convenient external drive for backing up photos, videos, and, of course, expanding game libraries on consoles like the PS4 Pro. The included encryption is a big plus for many.
6. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe
Important Note for PS4 Pro users: The Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink is an internal NVMe SSD primarily designed for PS5 consoles (fitting into its expansion slot) and PC gaming. While it’s a phenomenal drive, it is not suitable as an internal upgrade for the PS4 Pro, which uses a 2.5-inch SATA drive bay. You could theoretically use it in an external NVMe enclosure connected via USB to a PS4 Pro, but this is less common and adds complexity. We’re including it here to acknowledge its place in Lexar’s high-performance lineup, especially if you’re looking for Lexar storage and might own a PS5 or PC in addition to your PS4 Pro.
-
Key Features:
- Designed to coordinate with PS5, enhancing the gaming experience.
- Blazing-fast 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds for reduced load times.
- Tested and approved storage for PS5 console, allowing direct game play.
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- Also suitable for PC gaming; HMB and SLC Dynamic cache improve performance.
- Five-year limited warranty.
-
Pros:
- Extreme speeds for PS5 and PC gaming.
- Massive 4TB capacity.
- Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management.
- Designed for seamless PS5 expansion.
-
Cons:
- Not compatible as an internal drive for PS4 Pro.
- Requires an external enclosure to be used with PS4 Pro via USB (which negates much of its speed advantage due to USB bandwidth limitations).
- Significantly higher cost than a typical 500GB external SSD.
-
User Impressions: PS5 and PC gamers rave about the Lexar Play SSD’s incredible speed and seamless performance. It’s highly praised for eliminating loading screens and providing a truly next-gen gaming experience, particularly with its included heatsink making installation straightforward.
7. Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Important Note for PS4 Pro users: Similar to the previous entry, the Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO is a high-performance internal PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 SSD. It is built for the latest PCs (especially those with AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 processors) and future-gen consoles with PCIe 5.0 support, not for the PS4 Pro’s internal 2.5-inch SATA bay. This drive represents the bleeding edge of SSD technology, offering astounding speeds perfect for AI applications, intensive gaming, and professional workloads on compatible systems.
-
Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology with blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s.
- Accelerates load times by 200%.
- Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control.
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks.
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache enhance data transfer speeds.
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for significantly boosted game loads.
-
Pros:
- Unparalleled, cutting-edge speeds for compatible systems.
- Future-proof technology.
- Excellent for demanding applications like AI and high-end PC gaming.
- Superior heat management.
-
Cons:
- Completely incompatible as an internal drive for PS4 Pro.
- Requires a PCIe Gen5 slot, which is not found in the PS4 Pro.
- Overkill and impractical for PS4 Pro even with an external enclosure due to cost and bandwidth limitations.
- High price point reflecting its advanced technology.
-
User Impressions: Users with compatible high-end PCs are blown away by the Lexar NM1090 PRO’s mind-bending speeds and responsiveness. It’s considered a premium component for those building top-tier systems, particularly for tasks that benefit from extreme data throughput, like advanced gaming and professional content creation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I upgrade my PS4 Pro with an SSD?
A1: Upgrading your PS4 Pro with an SSD dramatically improves game loading times, reduces texture pop-in, makes the console’s UI feel snappier, and often shortens game installation times. It’s one of the best performance upgrades you can make for your aging console.
Q2: Can the PS4 Pro use any SSD, or are there specific types?
A2: The PS4 Pro has two primary ways to use an SSD:
1. Internal Upgrade: It supports 2.5-inch SATA III SSDs for replacing the console’s default internal hard drive. This is for the main system and often offers the best overall performance boost.
2. External Storage: You can connect any external USB 3.0 compatible SSD via its USB ports. This is a plug-and-play solution primarily used for storing and playing games, leaving the internal drive for system files.
Q3: Are NVMe SSDs (like some Lexar products listed) compatible with PS4 Pro?
A3: No, NVMe M.2 SSDs are not directly compatible as internal drives for the PS4 Pro. The PS4 Pro’s internal bay is designed for 2.5-inch SATA drives. While you could technically put an NVMe drive into an external enclosure and connect it via USB, the PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 port would bottleneck the NVMe’s incredible speeds, making it an inefficient and often unnecessary expense for a PS4 Pro. NVMe drives like the Lexar Play and NM1090 are primarily for PS5 or PC.
Q4: Is a 500GB SSD enough for my PS4 Pro?
A4: A 500GB SSD offers a noticeable speed boost and enough space for a handful of large modern games. However, considering game sizes can easily reach 50GB-100GB+ each, 500GB can fill up quickly. Many users opt for 1TB or 2TB drives for more comfortable storage, especially for an external solution. For the Lexar best 500gb ssd for ps4 pro search, it’s a good starting point, but consider your game library size.
Q5: How do I install an external SSD on my PS4 Pro?
A5: Installing an external SSD is incredibly easy. Simply connect the external SSD to one of your PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 ports. Go to “Settings” > “Devices” > “USB Storage Devices,” select your SSD, and then choose “Format as Extended Storage.” Your PS4 Pro will do the rest, allowing you to install games directly to it.
Q6: Will an SSD improve my PS4 Pro’s graphics?
A6: No, an SSD will not improve graphical fidelity (resolution, textures, frame rate). Its primary benefit is reducing loading times and improving how quickly game assets can be accessed and streamed, which leads to a smoother experience but doesn’t change the game’s visuals.
Q7: What’s the best way to choose between an internal or external SSD for my PS4 Pro?
A7:
* Internal SSD: Offers the maximum performance boost for all aspects of your console, including system menus, game loading, and streaming. It requires opening the console and transferring your data.
* External SSD: Is a much easier, plug-and-play solution. It’s ideal for expanding your game library and still provides significant loading time improvements for games stored on it. You can keep your original internal HDD for system files and other games. If you’re specifically after a “Lexar best 500gb ssd for ps4 pro” for games, an external drive is often the simpler, more recommended route.