Hey there, PlayStation 5 gamers! Are you constantly running out of space on your console? With game file sizes getting bigger and bigger, that initial 825GB just doesn’t cut it anymore, does it? If you’re tired of deleting games just to make room for new ones, it’s time to upgrade your PS5’s storage. And when it comes to high-performance, reliable internal SSDs, Sabrent is a name that often pops up, making gamers wonder if they offer the Sabrent best 4TB SSD for PS5.
You’re in luck! We’ve dived deep into the world of M.2 NVMe SSDs to bring you a comprehensive guide to some of the absolute best 4TB solid-state drives perfect for your PS5. While we’ll certainly highlight Sabrent’s excellent offerings, we’ll also look at some top-tier competitors that give them a run for their money. We’re talking lightning-fast load times, massive storage for your entire game library, and smooth gameplay without a hitch.
Let’s get your PS5 ready for a serious storage upgrade!
1. SABRENT Rocket 4 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
The Sabrent Rocket 4 4TB is a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to boost their PS5’s storage. It strikes a great balance between performance and value, offering serious speed that meets and exceeds Sony’s recommendations without breaking the bank. If you’re after a reliable, high-capacity drive from a trusted brand, this Rocket 4 is definitely worth considering. It’s got enough muscle for even the most demanding titles and ensures your game loads are snappy.
-
Key Features:
- Massive Gen4 Performance: Up to 7450MB/s read and 6400MB/s write speeds with PCIe 4.0 NVMe.
- Built for Speed and Stability: Up to 1000K/950K random IOPS for consistent performance.
- Broad Compatibility: Slim, single-sided M.2 2280 design fits perfectly in PS5, desktops, and laptops.
- For Demanding Users: Ideal for gamers, media editors, and power users.
- Sabrent Reliability & Support: Premium hardware, OS compatibility, firmware updates, and tech assistance.
-
Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 speeds easily meet PS5 requirements.
- High capacity means you can store tons of games.
- Reliable performance even under heavy loads.
- Versatile for various systems beyond just PS5.
-
Cons:
- Does not include a heatsink, which is essential for PS5 use (must be purchased separately).
- Not the absolute fastest Sabrent drive available (but still incredibly quick).
-
User Impressions: Gamers love its raw speed and how much storage it adds. Many users praise its consistent performance, though they do emphasize the importance of adding a good third-party heatsink for PS5 use. It’s seen as a solid, dependable upgrade.
2. SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2
While not a Sabrent drive, the Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD 4TB is an undeniable contender for the best 4TB SSD for PS5, offering blazing-fast speeds and an integrated heatsink solution tailored for your console. Samsung is a giant in flash memory, and their 990 PRO series lives up to the hype, delivering unparalleled performance that can significantly enhance your gaming experience with lightning-fast load times and smooth gameplay. It’s a premium option that really screams “next level.”
-
Key Features:
- Blazing Speed, Cool Victory: Near max PCIe 4.0 performance with integrated heatsink for improved thermal control.
- Reach the Next Level: Up to 7450/6900 MB/s read/write speeds, over 55% improvement in random performance vs. 980 PRO.
- World’s #1 Flash Memory Brand: Ensures top-tier quality and reliability.
- Play Without Limits: Massive 4TB capacity for all your games, videos, and data.
- Made with PS5 in Mind: Ultra-slim integrated heatsink designed to dissipate heat effectively and prevent performance issues.
-
Pros:
- Exceptional, top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance.
- Integrated heatsink is perfectly designed for PS5.
- Industry-leading reliability from Samsung.
- Massive storage capacity.
-
Cons:
- Premium price point, which might be a stretch for some budgets.
- Performance gains might be imperceptible over slightly slower drives for some users.
-
User Impressions: Users rave about its incredible speed and the convenience of the built-in heatsink. Many consider it the ultimate PS5 upgrade, noting how seamlessly it integrates and performs, making slow load times a thing of the past.
3. SABRENT 4TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (with Dedicated PS5 Heatsink)
Now, if you’re specifically searching for the Sabrent best 4TB SSD for PS5 with a built-in cooling solution, look no further than the Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus with its dedicated PS5 heatsink. This isn’t just a fast drive; it’s engineered specifically for your console, ensuring not only incredible speed but also optimal thermal management. Sabrent really thought about the PS5 gamer with this one, offering a holistic solution for expansion.
-
Key Features:
- Designed and Compatible for the Console: Engineered to fit perfectly and easily into the PS5’s SSD expansion slot.
- World’s Fastest SSD (for PS5 requirement): Exceeds PS5’s 5500MB/s requirement with 7100MB/s read and 6600MB/s write speeds.
- Revolutionary Cooling: High-quality CNC’d aluminum heatsink replaces the console’s native cover for better cooling using the PS5’s fan.
- Upgrade Your Console!: Unique “Sandwich Design” heatsink ensures even pressure and efficient heat transfer.
- Industrial Quality: Built with robust components for long-term reliability.
-
Pros:
- Exceptional performance that crushes PS5’s speed requirements.
- Integrated, custom-designed heatsink for superior cooling.
- Easy and streamlined installation directly into the PS5.
- Massive 4TB storage.
-
Cons:
- Might be slightly more expensive due to the integrated, specialized heatsink.
- Heatsink design might not appeal to users who prefer a standard M.2 drive and separate heatsink.
-
User Impressions: PS5 owners are incredibly impressed with the easy installation and the peace of mind the integrated heatsink provides. They report significantly faster load times and absolutely no thermal throttling, even during extended gaming sessions. This drive is often cited as the go-to for a hassle-free, high-performance PS5 upgrade.
4. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
When it comes to official endorsements, the WD_BLACK 4TB SN850P stands out as the only officially licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles. This means you can install it with absolute confidence, knowing it’s been tested and approved by Sony themselves. For gamers who prioritize peace of mind and seamless compatibility, this drive from Western Digital’s gaming-focused line is an incredibly strong contender, offering immense capacity and blistering speeds.
-
Key Features:
- Officially Licensed: The ONLY officially licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5 consoles, ensuring compatibility.
- Massive Storage: Store up to 100 games (4TB model) for an expansive game library.
- Optimized Heatsink: Brand-new, optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5 for easy, worry-free installation.
- Play Directly from Drive: Eliminate transferring games, play directly with tested and approved storage.
- Blazing Speeds: Up to 7,300MB/s read speeds for seamless gameplay and short load times.
- Bonus: Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
-
Pros:
- Official PlayStation license guarantees perfect compatibility.
- Integrated heatsink custom-built for PS5.
- Top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds for optimal performance.
- Massive 4TB capacity.
- PlayStation Plus trial is a nice added bonus.
-
Cons:
- Premium price point, as expected for an officially licensed product.
- Some users might prefer non-branded options for cost savings.
-
User Impressions: The “officially licensed” badge is a huge draw for PS5 owners, providing immense confidence. Users highlight its straightforward installation, incredibly fast performance, and the sheer convenience of having so much extra space without worrying about compatibility issues. It’s truly a plug-and-play solution.
5. SABRENT Rocket 5 4TB Advanced Performance Internal M.2 PCIe Gen5
Alright, hold onto your hats because the Sabrent Rocket 5 4TB is here, pushing the boundaries with PCIe Gen5 technology! While the PS5 doesn’t currently support PCIe 5.0 speeds, this drive is an absolute beast for future-proofing your storage or for use in a high-end PC, making it the fastest SSD Sabrent has ever produced. If you want the cutting edge and don’t mind overshooting the PS5’s current capabilities for a top-tier drive, this is a serious piece of kit. It’s an advanced option for those who want nothing but the absolute best, even if the PS5 can’t fully utilize it yet.
-
Key Features:
- Our Fastest SSD Ever: Natural successor to Rocket 4 Plus, reaching new performance heights.
- Never Get Left Behind: Transfers up to an astounding 14 GB/s with PCIe 5.0 bandwidth, DirectStorage-optimized firmware.
- Business Or Pleasure: Improves workflow and productivity for content creation, high-end apps, and gaming.
- Stylishly Cool Design: Available with or without a custom heatsink (separate purchase recommended for Gen5).
- It’s Sabrent: Great for Windows, macOS, Linux, and comes with Sabrent’s renowned support.
-
Pros:
- Unparalleled PCIe Gen5 speeds (future-proof for potential console upgrades or PC use).
- Massive 4TB capacity.
- DirectStorage optimization benefits compatible games.
- Top-tier performance for all demanding applications.
-
Cons:
- PCIe 5.0 speeds are not fully utilized by the current PS5 hardware (PS5 is PCIe 4.0).
- Requires a robust heatsink solution, which may be a separate purchase.
- Significantly higher price due to cutting-edge technology.
-
User Impressions: Tech enthusiasts and PC builders are blown away by its speed, calling it a game-changer for next-gen computing. PS5 users considering it appreciate its future-proofing aspect but acknowledge that its full potential isn’t currently realized on the console. It’s a choice for those who want the absolute maximum performance available, even if it’s overkill for now.
6. MOVE SPEED HB7450 4TB Internal Solid State Drive for PS5
Looking for a high-performance 4TB SSD for your PS5 that also offers excellent value? The MOVE SPEED HB7450 4TB SSD is a strong contender. It brings blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds that easily meet the PS5’s requirements, coupled with a generous 4TB capacity. What’s more, it includes a heatsink (not pre-installed) and even a screwdriver, making the installation process a breeze for DIY enthusiasts. It’s a robust option for gamers wanting top-tier performance without a top-tier brand name price tag.
-
Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface: Up to 7450MB/s read and 6500MB/s write speeds, 2x faster than PCIe 3.0.
- Compatible with PS5 & Large Capacity: M.2 2280 form factor fits PS5, laptops, PC, offering up to 4TB storage for 100+ games.
- Plug and Play & Strongly Cooling: Built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink (plus additional uninstalled heatsink in package) cools chip by 10 degrees. Includes screws and screwdriver.
- Premium Quality: Utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash and Maxio MAP1602 controller; rigorously tested for stability.
- What’s in the Box: SSD, heatsink (not installed), screws, screwdriver, user manual, plus 7×24 customer service.
-
Pros:
- Excellent PCIe Gen4 speeds, surpassing PS5 requirements.
- Includes an uninstalled heatsink, screws, and screwdriver for convenience.
- Massive 4TB storage capacity.
- Competitive pricing compared to major brands.
- Robust build quality and rigorous testing for reliability.
-
Cons:
- Heatsink requires manual installation, which some users might prefer pre-attached.
- Brand recognition isn’t as high as Sabrent, Samsung, or WD_BLACK.
-
User Impressions: Users are pleasantly surprised by the performance and value this drive offers. The inclusion of the heatsink and tools is a definite plus. Many report significant improvements in load times and smooth operation, making it a highly recommended alternative for budget-conscious gamers who don’t want to compromise on speed or capacity.
7. SABRENT 4TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (General Features)
Rounding out our list, we have another look at the Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus 4TB. While we highlighted a version with a specialized PS5 heatsink earlier, this specific entry focuses on the raw capabilities of the drive itself, making it a fantastic choice for those who might already have a preferred heatsink or are comfortable sourcing one separately. This is a powerful, reliable workhorse from Sabrent, perfect for anyone seeking a top-tier 4TB SSD for PS5 without necessarily needing the integrated heatsink. It’s definitely one of the Sabrent best 4TB SSD for PS5 options purely based on its core performance.
-
Key Features:
- NVMe M.2 PCIe Gen4 x4 Interface: Blazing fast PCIe 4.0 compliant, NVMe 1.3 compliant.
- Power Management Support: Features APST / ASPM / L1.2 for efficient power use.
- Supports SMART and TRIM commands: Ensures drive health and consistent performance.
- ONFi Support: Compatible with ONFi 2.3, 3.0, 3.2, and 4.0 interfaces.
- Advanced Data Management: Includes Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code, and Over-Provisioning for longevity.
- FREE Sabrent Acronis True Image: Software included for easy cloning and re-formatting (512-bytes or 4K bytes sector size).
-
Pros:
- Exceptional PCIe Gen4 speeds (7100MB/s read and 6600MB/s write).
- Advanced data management features ensure longevity and reliability.
- Includes useful Sabrent software for cloning and formatting.
- Massive 4TB capacity for extensive game libraries.
- Flexible for users who prefer their own heatsink solution.
-
Cons:
- Does not come with an integrated heatsink for PS5 (must be purchased separately).
- Can be slightly more expensive than entry-level Gen4 drives.
-
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise the Rocket 4 Plus for its raw performance and stability. The inclusion of Acronis True Image is a big bonus for PC users, and PS5 owners who pair it with a good third-party heatsink report flawless operation, super-fast load times, and a reliable storage expansion. It’s a high-performance workhorse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need an external or internal SSD for my PS5?
A1: The PS5 comes with 825GB of internal storage, but only about 667GB is actually usable for games. Modern game sizes can easily exceed 100GB, meaning you’ll quickly run out of space. An internal M.2 NVMe SSD allows you to expand this storage significantly, letting you install more games and play them directly from the expanded drive without having to transfer them back and forth. External drives are good for storing PS4 games, but only internal M.2 NVMe drives can play PS5 games directly.
Q2: What are the minimum requirements for a PS5-compatible M.2 SSD?
A2: Sony specifies an M.2 NVMe SSD with a PCIe Gen4 x4 interface. It needs to have a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. The capacity can range from 250GB up to 8TB. A heatsink is also highly recommended, if not outright essential, to prevent thermal throttling and maintain performance during intense gaming sessions.
Q3: Is a heatsink really necessary for a PS5 SSD?
A3: Yes, absolutely! The PS5’s M.2 slot doesn’t have much airflow on its own, and high-performance PCIe Gen4 SSDs can generate a significant amount of heat. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, preventing the drive from overheating and “throttling” its speed, which would negatively impact your gaming experience. Many drives now come with integrated heatsinks, or you can purchase one separately.
Q4: How difficult is it to install an M.2 SSD in a PS5?
A4: It’s surprisingly straightforward! Sony designed the PS5 with an accessible M.2 expansion slot. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, and the process generally involves removing the PS5’s side plate, unscrewing a cover, installing the SSD, adding the heatsink (if separate), and then reassembling. Sony provides clear instructions, and there are many helpful video tutorials online.
Q5: Can I use a PCIe Gen5 SSD like the Sabrent Rocket 5 in my PS5?
A5: Yes, you can install a PCIe Gen5 SSD in your PS5, as PCIe 5.0 drives are backward compatible with PCIe 4.0 slots. However, the PS5’s M.2 slot only supports PCIe 4.0. This means you won’t get the full, blistering speeds of the Gen5 drive; it will operate at Gen4 speeds. While it future-proofs your investment for a potential future console or PC upgrade, it’s generally more cost-effective to stick with a high-quality PCIe Gen4 SSD for current PS5 performance.
Q6: What’s the benefit of a 4TB SSD over smaller capacities?
A6: A 4TB SSD offers massive storage capacity, virtually eliminating the need to delete games. With average game sizes, a 4TB drive can easily hold 50-100 PS5 titles, along with your PS4 games. It means less time managing storage and more time gaming, providing true peace of mind for avid collectors and gamers.
Q7: Beyond Sabrent, which brands offer reliable PS5 SSDs?
A7: While Sabrent offers excellent options, other reputable brands like Samsung (990 Pro), WD_BLACK (SN850X or SN850P), Crucial (P5 Plus), and Seagate (FireCuda 530) are all fantastic choices. The key is to look for PCIe Gen4 NVMe drives with read speeds of 5500MB/s or higher and to ensure they have an adequate heatsink.
Ready to Level Up Your PS5 Storage?
Choosing the right M.2 NVMe SSD for your PlayStation 5 is a game-changer. No more deleting precious titles just to make room! Whether you’re eyeing the specialized Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus with its dedicated PS5 heatsink, the officially licensed WD_BLACK SN850P, or the raw power of the Samsung 990 PRO, any of these top contenders will significantly enhance your gaming experience.
The Sabrent best 4TB SSD for PS5 ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and whether you prefer an integrated heatsink or a separate solution. But one thing’s for sure: a 4TB SSD upgrade is one of the best investments you can make for your PS5, ensuring you’re always ready for the next big game. Happy gaming!