Is your PS4 Pro feeling a bit sluggish? Longer load times, texture pop-ins, and general choppiness can really pull you out of the immersive gaming experience. If you’ve been looking for a way to breathe new life into your PlayStation 4 Pro, upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the smartest moves you can make. And when it comes to reliable, high-performance storage, Lexar is a brand that consistently delivers.
But with so many options out there, how do you find the Lexar best SSD for PS4 Pro? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting for you. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into why an SSD upgrade is worth it, what to look for, and review 9 fantastic Lexar SSDs that could be the perfect match for your gaming console.
Why Upgrade Your PS4 Pro with an SSD?
The PlayStation 4 Pro, while still a powerful console, was originally equipped with a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD). HDDs are mechanical and have inherent speed limitations. SSDs, on the other hand, use flash memory, offering several key advantages for gamers:
- Blazing-Fast Load Times: This is the most noticeable benefit. Games will load significantly faster, getting you into the action quicker.
- Smoother Gameplay: While an SSD won’t improve frame rates directly, it can reduce texture pop-in and stuttering caused by the system struggling to load assets from a slow HDD.
- Quicker Menu Navigation: The PS4 Pro’s dashboard and in-game menus will feel snappier and more responsive.
- Reduced Installation Times: Installing games and updates will be noticeably faster.
- Durability and Silence: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resilient to drops and vibrations. They also operate silently, which is a nice bonus!
While the PS4 Pro can’t fully utilize the cutting-edge speeds of the latest Gen4 or Gen5 NVMe SSDs (its internal interface is SATA II, and external USB is 3.0), even a standard SATA or good quality external USB 3.0 SSD will offer a dramatic improvement over the stock HDD.
What to Look For in a Lexar SSD for PS4 Pro
Before we jump into the reviews, here are a few things to consider when picking the Lexar best SSD for PS4 Pro for your setup:
- Type: Internal vs. External:
- Internal SSDs (SATA 2.5-inch) replace the console’s existing HDD. This is a bit more involved but offers a clean, integrated solution.
- External SSDs (portable USB drives) are plug-and-play. They’re super convenient, often more durable, and you can easily take your games to a friend’s house. Many PS4 Pro users opt for external SSDs due to their simplicity.
- Capacity: Games nowadays are massive. Consider at least 1TB, but 2TB or even 4TB will give you plenty of room to grow your game library.
- Speed: For external drives, look for USB 3.0 or 3.2 Gen 1 compatibility at minimum. While Lexar offers drives with much higher speeds, the PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 ports will cap performance at around 300-400MB/s, which is still a huge leap from an HDD.
- Durability: If you opt for a portable external SSD, features like water, dust, and drop resistance are a huge plus, especially if you plan to travel with it.
- Compatibility: Ensure the drive is compatible with gaming consoles (most Lexar external SSDs are).
Let’s dive into some of Lexar’s top offerings!
Our Top Picks: The 9 Best Lexar SSDs for PS4 Pro
1. Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe
This isn’t your typical PS4 Pro upgrade, but it’s a stellar Lexar drive designed for high-performance gaming on PS5 and PC. While the PS4 Pro can’t use this as a direct internal upgrade due to its PCIe Gen 4 NVMe interface, it highlights Lexar’s prowess in high-speed storage. If you’re a multi-platform gamer with a PS5 or a powerful PC alongside your PS4 Pro, this could be your ultimate high-capacity drive for those next-gen titles. It’s built for speed and intense gaming, ensuring minimal load times wherever it’s compatible.
- Key Features:
- Designed to enhance gaming experience with PS5 and PC.
- 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds (PCIe 4.0).
- 4TB capacity with 3200TBW endurance.
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling.
- HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance on PC.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Extremely high speeds for compatible platforms (PS5, PC).
- Large 4TB capacity.
- Integrated heatsink keeps temperatures low during heavy use.
- Excellent for future-proofing your storage needs.
- Cons:
- Not directly compatible as an internal PS4 Pro upgrade.
- PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 external connection won’t utilize its full speed.
- User Impressions: Gamers praise its incredible speed and ease of installation in PS5 consoles. Many note the significant reduction in loading times for demanding games. Its robust cooling solution is also a frequently highlighted benefit.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Now we’re talking PS4 Pro compatibility! The Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub is a fantastic external option for expanding your PS4 Pro’s storage. It’s super compact, robust, and offers reliable speeds that will make a noticeable difference to your PS4 Pro’s game loading. The integrated hub is a unique bonus, offering extra Type-C ports, making it a versatile companion for gamers and creators alike who juggle multiple devices.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact and portable design.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for connection).
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports.
- Dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Excellent for PS4 Pro external storage.
- Highly durable and travel-ready.
- Integrated hub adds great utility for other devices.
- Fast performance for USB 3.0-connected devices.
- Cons:
- The hub feature might be overkill if you only use it for PS4 Pro.
- User Impressions: Users love its compact size and rugged build, making it ideal for on-the-go use. The additional Type-C ports are a frequent highlight for power users. Performance is consistently praised for quick transfers and smooth operation.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 4TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
For PS4 Pro users who prioritize ruggedness and massive storage, the Lexar 4TB Armor 700 is an absolute powerhouse. Not only does it offer a huge 4TB capacity, but its IP66 rating means it’s seriously protected against water and dust, and it can survive 3-meter drops. This makes it an ideal companion for gamers who might take their console (or just the drive) to different locations or simply want peace of mind about their precious game library. Its fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds will be capped by the PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0, but still deliver excellent performance.
- Key Features:
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write speeds.
- Rated IP66 for water and dust protection; withstands 3-meter drops.
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures.
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles, and more.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption.
- Includes a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Exceptional durability, perfect for travel or accident-prone environments.
- Massive 4TB storage capacity.
- Fast actual-world performance even when capped by PS4 Pro USB 3.0.
- Thermal control design prevents throttling.
- Cons:
- PS4 Pro can’t utilize the full 2000MB/s speeds.
- User Impressions: Durability is a common theme in positive reviews, with users appreciating its robust build. The large capacity is also highly valued, allowing for extensive game libraries without worry. Performance is noted as consistently fast and reliable.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
Similar to its 1TB counterpart, the 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub provides that perfect blend of convenience, speed, and versatility, but with double the storage. If you need a bit more room for your PS4 Pro game collection but still want the compact, hub-integrated design, this 2TB version is a fantastic choice. It maintains the same rugged build and useful features, making it a strong contender for the Lexar best SSD for PS4 Pro external storage.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact and portable design.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector.
- Capture brilliant Apple ProRes footage (if used with compatible devices).
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports and included adapters/cables.
- Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity for a large game library.
- Excellent for PS4 Pro external storage.
- Highly durable and travel-ready.
- Integrated hub adds great utility for other devices.
- Cons:
- Hub might not be necessary if strictly for PS4 Pro.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the increased storage capacity over the 1TB model, allowing for more games without constant management. The combination of portability, durability, and the built-in hub makes it a favorite for many.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is all about sleek design and serious speed. Its thin, lightweight, and durable metal design makes it incredibly pocketable, perfect for gamers on the move. While its USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds of up to 2000MB/s read are overkill for the PS4 Pro, its consistent high performance will translate into a very smooth experience as external storage. It’s also broadly compatible with various devices, including Xbox, PS4, and PS5, making it a versatile choice.
- Key Features:
- 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 (for compatible devices).
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more.
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures.
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Sleek, highly portable, and durable design.
- Excellent compatibility across multiple gaming consoles and devices.
- Robust thermal control ensures sustained performance.
- Good 2TB capacity.
- Cons:
- PS4 Pro won’t harness its maximum advertised speeds.
- User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight its elegant, slim profile and surprising durability for its size. The fast transfer speeds are appreciated, even when not reaching the absolute maximum, and its broad compatibility makes it a go-to drive for many.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Similar to the “Play” SSD, the Lexar NM1090 PRO is a beast built for the absolute cutting edge of PC gaming and AI workloads, leveraging PCIe 5.0 technology. This internal M.2 NVMe drive delivers unprecedented speeds. While it’s certainly not an internal upgrade for a PS4 Pro (which uses SATA), if you’re a serious PC gamer who also enjoys PS4 Pro, this showcases Lexar’s top-tier internal drive performance. For PS4 Pro users, this is more about understanding Lexar’s technological capabilities rather than a direct recommendation for their console, but it certainly proves Lexar’s engineering prowess.
- Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology with blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s.
- Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control.
- Ideal internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks.
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds.
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for significantly boosted game loads on PC.
- Pros:
- Unmatched speeds for compatible (PCIe 5.0) systems.
- Optimized for high-performance PC gaming and demanding applications.
- Advanced thermal control.
- Cons:
- Absolutely no direct internal compatibility with PS4 Pro.
- Massively overkill for PS4 Pro’s external USB 3.0 ports.
- User Impressions: PC enthusiasts rave about its mind-blowing speeds and how it transforms system responsiveness and game loading on high-end rigs. The advanced thermal management is a key differentiator for sustained performance.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
This is the 2TB version of the robust Armor 700 we saw earlier, offering the same incredible durability and performance in a more accessible capacity. If the 4TB was more than you needed, this 2TB model is still an excellent choice for a rugged and reliable external Lexar best SSD for PS4 Pro gaming. It withstands the elements and accidental drops, making it perfect for gamers who want peace of mind or frequently move their console setup.
- Key Features:
- Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of 2000MB/s max read/write speeds.
- Rated IP66 for water and dust protection; withstands 3-meter drops.
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording (for compatible devices).
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures.
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles, and more.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption.
- Includes a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Exceptional durability and ruggedness.
- Generous 2TB storage capacity.
- Fast actual-world performance for PS4 Pro external use.
- Thermal control design for stable operation.
- Cons:
- PS4 Pro can’t utilize the full 2000MB/s speeds.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the balance of capacity and extreme durability. Many highlight its reliable performance even after being exposed to less-than-ideal conditions. It’s often recommended for those who need a tough, dependable external drive.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD
This version of the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD focuses purely on compact storage and speed, without the integrated hub, making it a more streamlined option for your PS4 Pro. It’s still incredibly compact, dust and water-resistant, and offers the same blazing-fast 1050MB/s read speeds. If you’re looking for a simple, fast, and durable external SSD for your PS4 Pro without extra bells and whistles, this 2TB model hits the sweet spot.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-compact for spontaneous creativity anytime, anywhere.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector.
- Expand smartphone’s storage instantly and enjoy seamless data transfers.
- Blazing-fast performance 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Compatible with mobile phones, iPads, tablets, Macs, PCs, cameras, and many more Type-C devices.
- Dust- and water-resistant (IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter, comes with a protective silicone case.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Excellent 2TB capacity for PS4 Pro games.
- Highly portable and extremely durable with included silicone case.
- Fast and reliable performance for external console storage.
- Simple, no-frills design if you don’t need the hub.
- Cons:
- PS4 Pro won’t utilize full 1050MB/s speeds.
- User Impressions: Customers often praise its minimalist design and robust protection. The speeds are consistently high for external usage, and its wide compatibility makes it a versatile device beyond just gaming. The included silicone case is a nice touch for added peace of mind.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable SSD
This model is another iteration of the Lexar Professional Go series, emphasizing speed and connectivity in a tiny package. With up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2, it’s plenty fast for your PS4 Pro’s external storage needs. What sets this particular one apart is its built-in hub with four USB Type-C connectors, capable of up to 30W power supply. This makes it incredibly versatile, not just for gaming but also for connecting other peripherals or charging devices. It’s a fantastic blend of storage and connectivity.
- Key Features:
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Expanded device connectivity with a built-in hub (4 USB Type-C connectors, up to 30W power supply).
- Rugged durability with IP65 dust- and water-resistance and 3.3′ (1m) anti-drop protection.
- Compact and portable design (1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32″, 0.5 oz).
- Universal compatibility with Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, iPhone 15 series, PCs, Macs, tablets, iPads, and cameras.
- Pros:
- Excellent speed for PS4 Pro external storage.
- Uniquely integrated hub adds significant value and utility.
- Extremely compact and lightweight.
- Highly durable for travel and outdoor use.
- Cons:
- The hub might be more than some PS4 Pro users require.
- User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by its minuscule size combined with powerful performance and the sheer utility of the integrated hub. It’s seen as an all-in-one solution for both storage and connectivity, especially for users with multiple USB-C devices.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ: All Your Lexar SSD for PS4 Pro Questions Answered
Q1: Will a Lexar SSD really make a difference on my PS4 Pro?
A1: Absolutely! While the PS4 Pro can’t utilize the absolute maximum speeds of modern SSDs due to its internal SATA II and external USB 3.0 interfaces, you’ll still experience significantly faster game loading times, quicker menu navigation, and reduced texture pop-in compared to the stock HDD. It’s one of the most impactful upgrades for the PS4 Pro.
Q2: Should I get an internal or external Lexar SSD for my PS4 Pro?
A2: For most users, an external Lexar portable SSD is the easiest and most convenient option. You just plug it into a USB 3.0 port, format it, and you’re good to go. It doesn’t void your warranty (unless you open the console) and can be unplugged and used with other devices. Internal SSDs require opening the console and reinstalling the system software, which is a bit more involved.
Q3: What capacity Lexar SSD should I choose for my PS4 Pro?
A3: This depends on your game library size. Given how large modern games are (often 50GB-100GB+), we recommend at least 1TB. However, 2TB or even 4TB will give you much more breathing room, allowing you to install many more games without constantly managing storage.
Q4: Are Lexar SSDs compatible with the PS4 Pro?
A4: Yes, almost all Lexar external portable SSDs are compatible with the PS4 Pro via its USB 3.0 ports. For internal drives, you would need a 2.5-inch SATA SSD, not an NVMe M.2 drive (like some of the high-speed drives reviewed above for PS5/PC). Our recommended portable Lexar SSDs are explicitly compatible.
Q5: How do I set up an external Lexar SSD with my PS4 Pro?
A5: It’s quite simple!
1. Plug your Lexar external SSD into one of the PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 ports.
2. Go to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices.
3. Select your Lexar SSD and choose “Format as Extended Storage.”
4. Once formatted, you can set it as the default installation location for new games or move existing games from your internal drive.
Q6: Do I need a special cable for a Lexar external SSD?
A6: Lexar external SSDs typically come with the necessary USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to USB-A cables (or both). Ensure you use a USB 3.0 (or higher) compatible cable to get the best possible speeds with your PS4 Pro.
Q7: What are LSI keywords and why are they important for SEO?
A7: LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are terms and phrases that are semantically related to your main keyword, but aren’t necessarily exact matches. For “Lexar best ssd for ps4 pro,” LSI keywords would include “PS4 Pro storage upgrade,” “SSD benefits for gaming,” “external SSD for PlayStation,” “game loading times,” “Lexar portable SSD,” “solid-state drive performance,” etc. They are important because they help search engines understand the full context and topical relevance of your content, leading to better rankings for a wider range of related searches.
Q8: Can I use an NVMe Lexar SSD internally in my PS4 Pro?
A8: No, the PS4 Pro uses a 2.5-inch SATA interface for its internal storage, not NVMe M.2. While Lexar makes excellent NVMe drives (like the PLAY or NM1090 PRO), they are designed for PS5 or PC and cannot be installed internally in a PS4 Pro. However, you can use a portable Lexar external SSD via USB for a significant performance boost.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PS4 Pro’s storage with a fast, reliable SSD is one of the best ways to enhance your gaming experience. While some Lexar drives are geared towards the absolute bleeding edge of PC or PS5 performance, Lexar offers a fantastic range of portable SSDs that are perfectly suited to be the Lexar best SSD for PS4 Pro external storage solution.
Whether you prioritize rugged durability, massive capacity, or just a sleek, fast, and portable drive, Lexar has an option for you. Any of the external portable SSDs reviewed here will deliver a noticeable boost to your PS4 Pro’s performance, getting you into your games faster and keeping you immersed. So, go ahead and give your PS4 Pro the upgrade it deserves – happy gaming!