Is your PC feeling a bit sluggish, or are you constantly running out of space thanks to massive game installs and bulging media libraries? If you’re nodding along, then it’s time for a serious upgrade! For hardcore gamers, content creators, and power users, a high-capacity, lightning-fast SSD isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. And when it comes to reliable, performance-driven storage, Lexar has consistently been a front-runner.
In this guide, we’re diving deep to help you find the Lexar best 4TB SSD for PC that suits your needs. We’ve meticulously reviewed a selection of top-tier Lexar 4TB SSDs, plus one strong alternative, to ensure you get the perfect blend of speed, capacity, and value. So, let’s explore some of the market’s best options to supercharge your setup!
Understanding the Buzz: Why 4TB and Why Lexar?
Before we jump into the individual reviews, let’s quickly chat about why a 4TB SSD is such a game-changer. Modern AAA games can easily chew up 100GB, and 4K video projects demand even more space. A 4TB drive gives you ample room to breathe, install multiple demanding titles, and keep your critical files close at hand without constant juggling.
Lexar, known for its strong heritage in memory solutions, consistently delivers SSDs that offer robust performance and competitive pricing. Whether you’re looking for an internal NVMe drive to boost your system’s core speed or a portable solution for on-the-go data, Lexar often has a fantastic option waiting. We’re talking about drives designed for everything from blistering gaming sessions to intensive professional workflows.
Our Top Picks: Lexar & Other Best 4TB SSDs for PC
Here’s a rundown of the top 4TB SSDs we recommend, designed to help you pick the perfect one for your rig.
1. Lexar 4TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
If you’re building a new PC or upgrading an existing desktop, the Lexar NM790 with a heatsink is an absolute beast. This drive isn’t just about massive storage; it’s engineered for peak performance, offering incredible speeds that will dramatically reduce load times for games and applications. The integrated heatsink is a crucial feature, ensuring your drive stays cool under pressure, which means consistent top-tier performance even during intense gaming marathons or heavy video editing. It’s a fantastic choice for those who demand the absolute best from their internal storage, especially if you’re rocking a PlayStation 5 and want to expand its capabilities.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- Impressive 3000TBW endurance
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Designed with an integrated heatsink for optimal cooling 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 transfer speeds
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds for rapid data access and game loading
- Integrated heatsink prevents thermal throttling
- Excellent endurance rating for long-term reliability
- Energy efficient design
- PS5 compatibility makes it versatile
- Great value for performance
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Cons:
- Might be overkill for casual users
- Heatsink might not fit in all cramped laptop setups (though primarily for desktops/PS5)
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User Impressions: Users rave about the NM790’s raw speed and how it transforms their system’s responsiveness. Many highlight its ease of installation and the peace of mind offered by the included heatsink, especially for high-demand tasks. It’s often cited as a superb “bang for your buck” option that competes with more expensive drives.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 4TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
The non-heatsink version of the NM790 delivers the same phenomenal speed and efficiency as its heatsink-equipped sibling, but in a slimmer profile. This makes it an ideal candidate for laptops, ultra-thin desktops, or motherboards that come with their own M.2 heatsinks. You’re still getting the blistering PCIe Gen4 performance and exceptional endurance that makes the NM790 series a top contender for the Lexar best 4TB SSD for PC category. It’s perfect for those who need a high-performance internal drive without the added bulk, especially if power efficiency is high on your list.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- Impressive 3000TBW endurance
- 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 transfer speeds
- Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Single-sided NVMe SSD, perfect for laptops
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Outstanding read/write speeds for rapid data handling
- High endurance rating ensures durability
- Energy-efficient design is great for laptops
- Slim, single-sided design fits various systems
- PS5 compatible
- Often a slightly more affordable option than the heatsink version
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Cons:
- Requires a separate heatsink if your system doesn’t provide adequate cooling
- Still a high-performance drive, potentially overkill for basic users
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User Impressions: Users praise this drive for its incredible speed and how it breathes new life into their laptops and desktops. Its power efficiency is a commonly highlighted benefit, especially for portable setups. Many find it straightforward to install and appreciate its robust performance in gaming and content creation.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 4TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
Stepping away from internal drives, the Lexar Armor 700 Portable SSD is an absolute fortress for your data on the go. If you need robust, high-speed external storage that can withstand the elements, this is your champion. Its IP66 rating means it’s water and dust resistant, and it can survive drops up to 3 meters – perfect for photographers, videographers, or anyone working in challenging environments. Beyond its rugged exterior, it offers incredible transfer speeds, making it ideal for direct recording with devices like the iPhone 15 Pro, a game-changer for mobile content creators.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write speeds
- Rated IP66 for water and dust resistance
- Rugged design withstands up to 3-meter drops
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
- Unique Thermal Control Design maintains optimal temperatures
- Wide compatibility: PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption
- Includes Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable
- Compact and lightweight (0.18 lbs)
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Extremely durable and ruggedized for outdoor/tough conditions
- Excellent portable speeds for large file transfers
- Direct ProRes recording capability is a huge plus for creators
- Effective thermal management
- Broad device compatibility
- Enhanced data security with AES encryption
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Cons:
- Premium price due to rugged features
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 might require specific ports for maximum speed
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User Impressions: Users are blown away by the Armor 700’s durability and speed. Content creators, especially those using iPhone 15 Pro, highlight its seamless recording capabilities. The peace of mind from its rugged design is a recurring theme, making it a favorite for professionals on location.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe
Designed with gamers squarely in mind, the Lexar Play SSD with Heatsink is another fantastic option if you’re looking for the Lexar best 4TB SSD for PC gaming or expanding your PS5 storage. This drive focuses on delivering reduced load times and seamless gameplay, and the integrated heatsink is a clear indicator of its gaming pedigree, ensuring your drive stays cool even during the most intense gaming sessions. It’s truly a plug-and-play solution for expanding your PS5’s game library without sacrificing performance.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity
- Designed to coordinate with your PS5
- 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds for seamless gameplay
- 3200TBW endurance for the 4TB model
- Tested and approved storage for PS5 console; allows playing games directly off the drive
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance on PC
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for both PC gaming and PS5
- PS5 approved with direct play capability
- Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management
- High endurance rating
- Easy installation
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Cons:
- Primarily gaming-focused, though perfectly capable for general use
- Heatsink might not be compatible with all laptop designs
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User Impressions: Gamers absolutely love the Lexar Play for its speed and PS5 compatibility. Many report significant reductions in loading screens and appreciate the hassle-free installation with the integrated heatsink. It’s seen as a reliable and high-performance upgrade for expanding their digital game collection.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 4TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
If you’re building a bleeding-edge system with the latest motherboards and CPUs (think AMD Ryzen 7000 series or Intel 13th/14th Gen i9), then the Lexar NM1090 PRO is a glimpse into the future of storage. This PCIe Gen5 drive delivers mind-boggling speeds that are truly next-level, accelerating load times by 200% compared to previous generations. It’s not just for gamers; its ability to reduce bottlenecks and accelerate AI model training makes it an ideal choice for AI PCs, content creators, and professionals dealing with massive datasets. This is the top-tier, no-compromise option for those who want the absolute fastest storage available today.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity
- PCIe 5.0 technology with blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s
- Accelerates load times by 200%
- Optimized for AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 systems
- Powerful 6nm controller for optimized heat control
- Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs: reduces bottlenecks, accelerates AI model training/inferencing
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache enhance data transfer speeds
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for significantly boosted game loads
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Unparalleled, cutting-edge speeds (twice as fast as Gen4)
- Future-proof technology for new systems
- Excellent for AI, professional workloads, and hardcore gaming
- DRAM cache for sustained performance
- DirectStorage support for optimized gaming
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Cons:
- Requires a compatible PCIe Gen5 motherboard (newer and more expensive)
- High price point
- Most users might not fully utilize its extreme speeds yet
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User Impressions: Early adopters are consistently blown away by the NM1090 PRO’s incredible speed, noting how it makes every system operation feel instantaneous. Gamers with compatible setups report virtually non-existent load times, while professionals appreciate its capacity to handle massive files and complex applications with ease. It’s a statement piece for performance enthusiasts.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is where sleek design meets serious performance. If you need a fast, compact, and stylish external drive, this one is hard to beat. Its thin, lightweight metal design slips easily into any pocket, making it incredibly convenient for daily commutes or travel. Don’t let its size fool you; with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds, it handles large file transfers like a pro. Like the Armor 700, it also supports direct Apple ProRes recording, making it a fantastic companion for iPhone 15 Pro users who need robust external storage for their creative projects. This is a top contender for the Lexar best 4TB SSD for PC if portability and speed are your main concerns.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
- Compact and lightweight (0.095 lbs)
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Outstanding portable speeds for quick transfers
- Ultra-thin and lightweight for maximum portability
- Stylish and durable metal casing
- Direct ProRes recording capability for mobile creators
- Broad compatibility across devices and consoles
- Effective thermal management
- Includes encryption for data security
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Cons:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance requires compatible ports
- Less rugged than the Armor 700
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend the SL500 for its sleek aesthetics and impressive speed. It’s a popular choice among students, professionals, and mobile photographers who need to move large files quickly and discreetly. The iPhone ProRes recording feature is particularly praised by content creators for its convenience and performance.
- See it on Amazon here
7. WD_BLACK 4TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
While this review primarily focuses on Lexar, we couldn’t overlook a strong contender like the WD_BLACK SN7100. Western Digital’s WD_BLACK line is synonymous with high-performance gaming storage, and the SN7100 lives up to that reputation. Offering impressive PCIe Gen4 speeds and a robust endurance rating, this drive is a fantastic alternative for serious gamers and power users. Its power efficiency also makes it a superb choice for gaming laptops and handheld devices, ensuring you get top-tier performance without draining your battery too quickly. If you’re comparing the Lexar best 4TB SSD for PC against other brands, the SN7100 is definitely one to consider.
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Key Features:
- 4TB capacity
- Experience speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write
- Up to 35% faster performance than previous WD_BLACK drives
- Designed for serious gamers with a PCIe Gen4 interface and TLC 3D NAND
- Up to 2,400TBW endurance for the 4TB model
- Built with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, with up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation
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Pros:
- Excellent PCIe Gen4 speeds for gaming and demanding applications
- High endurance rating for longevity
- Significantly improved power efficiency for portable devices
- Trusted brand in gaming storage
- Great for large game libraries
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Cons:
- May not include a heatsink (check specific model/retailer)
- Performance slightly lower than the top-tier Lexar Gen4 drives
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the SN7100 for its raw performance and reliability. Many users note a noticeable improvement in game load times and overall system responsiveness. Its power efficiency is a big win for laptop gamers, and the robust endurance provides peace of mind for heavy use.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Finding the right 4TB SSD can bring up a lot of questions. Here are some common ones to help you make an informed decision:
Q1: What’s the main difference between PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 SSDs?
A1: The biggest difference is speed! PCIe Gen5 SSDs like the Lexar NM1090 PRO offer roughly double the theoretical read/write speeds of PCIe Gen4 drives (e.g., 14,000 MB/s vs. 7,000 MB/s). However, Gen5 drives require a compatible motherboard and CPU, and their benefits are most noticeable in extremely demanding tasks like 8K video editing or AI model training. For most gaming and daily use, Gen4 SSDs are still incredibly fast and offer better value.
Q2: Do I need a heatsink for my internal 4TB NVMe SSD?
A2: For PCIe Gen4 and especially Gen5 NVMe SSDs, a heatsink is highly recommended, particularly if you’re engaging in sustained, heavy workloads like gaming, video editing, or large file transfers. These drives can generate significant heat, and a heatsink helps dissipate it, preventing thermal throttling (where the drive slows down to cool itself) and ensuring consistent peak performance. Many motherboards now come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can purchase SSDs with pre-installed ones.
Q3: What does “TBW” mean, and why is it important for a 4TB SSD?
A3: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s an endurance rating that indicates how many terabytes of data can be written to the SSD over its lifetime before its reliability might start to decline. A higher TBW rating means the drive is expected to last longer under heavy use. For a 4TB SSD, a TBW of 2000-3000TBW (like on many Lexar drives) is excellent and ensures years of reliable performance, even for users who frequently write large amounts of data.
Q4: Is a 4TB SSD overkill for gaming?
A4: Not at all! While 1TB or 2TB might be sufficient for casual gamers, 4TB is becoming the sweet spot for serious enthusiasts. Modern AAA games can easily consume 100-200GB each, and with a 4TB drive, you can install dozens of your favorite titles without worrying about storage limits. It also leaves plenty of room for your operating system, applications, and media files, preventing the constant need to uninstall and reinstall games.
Q5: Can I use these internal NVMe SSDs with a laptop?
A5: Many of the internal NVMe M.2 SSDs (like the Lexar NM790 without a heatsink or the WD_BLACK SN7100) are perfectly compatible with laptops, provided your laptop has an available M.2 slot that supports the correct PCIe generation. However, you’ll need to check your laptop’s specifications to ensure compatibility with the physical size (2280 is common) and whether a heatsink will fit, as space can be limited.
Q6: What factors should I consider when choosing the best 4TB SSD for my PC?
A6:
1. Interface: PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 (Gen5 needs a compatible system).
2. Form Factor: M.2 NVMe for internal, or portable for external needs.
3. Speed: Read/write speeds – higher is better for large files and quick loading.
4. Endurance (TBW): A higher number means longer life under heavy use.
5. Cooling: Internal drives, especially Gen4/Gen5, benefit from a heatsink.
6. Compatibility: Ensure it works with your motherboard/laptop and, if applicable, console (like PS5).
7. Price: Balance performance with your budget.
8. Use Case: Gaming, content creation, general use, portability needs.
Q7: What are the benefits of a portable 4TB SSD like the Lexar Armor 700 or SL500?
A7: Portable 4TB SSDs offer incredible flexibility. They allow you to carry vast amounts of data—games, video projects, photos—in a compact, durable package. Their high transfer speeds make them ideal for quick backups, working directly off the drive, or even expanding storage for game consoles and mobile devices like the iPhone 15 Pro for direct video recording. Rugged models provide extra peace of mind for users in active or outdoor environments.
The Final Word
Choosing the Lexar best 4TB SSD for PC (or a stellar alternative) comes down to balancing your specific needs with your budget. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer needing blistering speeds and PS5 compatibility, a professional content creator demanding rugged portable storage, or someone future-proofing their rig with cutting-edge Gen5 technology, Lexar offers compelling options. Each drive we’ve reviewed brings something unique to the table, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every type of user. Happy upgrading!