Is your PS4 Pro feeling a bit sluggish? Running out of space for all those amazing games? You’re not alone! Upgrading your storage with a solid-state drive (SSD) is one of the best ways to breathe new life into your console, offering faster load times, smoother gameplay, and a much bigger game library. When it comes to reliable and high-performance storage, Lexar is a brand that consistently delivers. But with so many options, which Lexar 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro is truly the best fit for you?
We’ve scoured the market and picked out 10 top Lexar SSDs that could be perfect for your PlayStation 4 Pro setup. Whether you’re looking for an internal upgrade or a speedy external solution, we’ll break down the features, pros, and cons to help you make the best choice. Let’s dive in and find your console’s next big upgrade!
Why Upgrade Your PS4 Pro with an SSD?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly recap why an SSD is a game-changer for your PS4 Pro:
- Blazing Fast Load Times: Say goodbye to staring at loading screens! SSDs significantly reduce the time it takes to boot up games and load levels.
- Smoother Gameplay: While it won’t change your frame rate, faster texture loading can reduce pop-in and make the overall experience feel more fluid.
- Durability and Reliability: Unlike traditional hard drives with moving parts, SSDs are more resistant to drops and bumps, making them ideal for long-term use.
- Quiet Operation: No more whirring sounds from your hard drive; SSDs operate silently.
- Massive Storage: A 2TB SSD gives you ample space for dozens of AAA titles, DLCs, and captures without constantly deleting games.
Now, let’s explore some of Lexar’s finest 2TB SSD offerings and see which one could be the Lexar best 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro gamers!
1. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This isn’t just an SSD; it’s a mobile creative hub! While primarily designed for on-the-go content creators, its blazing-fast speeds and robust build make it an excellent external storage companion for your PS4 Pro, especially if you also juggle other devices. The integrated hub is a unique touch, offering extra Type-C ports to expand your connectivity. Its ultra-compact design means you can easily stash it away when not in use.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact design for portability
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (requires firm insertion)
– Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
– Dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65 rated), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Exceptional portability and durability
– High read/write speeds for quick game transfers
– Built-in hub is a fantastic bonus for other devices
– Robust construction for peace of mind
Cons:
– Primarily designed for content creation, so some features might be overkill
– Wireless connector may require careful insertion for proper function
– External drive, so it occupies a USB port on your PS4 Pro
User Impressions:
Users love the convenience and speed of this portable SSD, often highlighting its ruggedness and the added utility of the USB hub. Many appreciate its compact size for travel and its ability to handle demanding tasks quickly. Gamers find it reliable for storing large game libraries externally.
2. Lexar 2TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe
Engineered with serious gamers in mind, the Lexar PLAY 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD with Heatsink is specifically optimized for consoles like the PS5 and high-performance PCs. While it’s not a direct internal upgrade for the PS4 Pro (which uses a SATA interface), it’s a stellar option for PS5 owners who want to offload their PS4 game library to a super-fast drive, allowing for quicker access when playing PS4 titles via backward compatibility. The included heatsink ensures optimal thermal performance during intense gaming.
Key Features:
– Designed to enhance PS5 and PC gaming
– Max read/write speeds of 7400MB/s and 6500MB/s for reduced load times
– Tested and approved storage for PS5 console
– Includes a unique heatsink for enhanced cooling
– HMB and SLC Dynamic cache for improved performance on PC
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Incredible speeds for next-gen consoles and PCs
– Integrated heatsink keeps temperatures low
– Perfect for expanding PS5 storage, including PS4 games
– Allows games to be played directly from the drive on PS5
Cons:
– Not compatible as an internal drive for PS4 Pro
– Higher performance than strictly needed for PS4 game data transfer
– Would require an external NVMe enclosure to be used as external storage for PS4 Pro, which isn’t its primary design.
User Impressions:
Gamers praise this SSD for its transformative speed on PS5 and PC, noting significantly faster load times and smoother experiences. The heatsink is a frequently mentioned plus, ensuring stable performance during extended play sessions. It’s considered a top-tier upgrade for compatible systems.
3. Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
The Lexar NM1090 PRO is a beast of an SSD, showcasing the bleeding edge of storage technology with PCIe 5.0. Delivering mind-boggling speeds of up to 14,000MB/s read and 13,000MB/s write, this drive is built for the most demanding tasks on high-end PCs, including AI applications and cutting-edge gaming. It’s important to note, however, that this drive is far too advanced for the PS4 Pro’s internal architecture and is not compatible. It’s a powerhouse for those building or upgrading top-tier PC systems.
Key Features:
– PCIe 5.0 technology with speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s
– Accelerates load times by 200% on compatible systems
– Powerful 6nm controller for optimized heat control
– Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs, reducing bottlenecks
– DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache for enhanced data transfer
– Works with Microsoft DirectStorage for boosted game loads on PC
Pros:
– Unrivaled speed and performance for high-end PCs
– Excellent for intensive AI applications and professional workloads
– State-of-the-art technology
– Significantly reduces bottlenecks and improves system responsiveness
Cons:
– Completely incompatible with PS4 Pro (and even PS5 doesn’t fully utilize Gen5 yet)
– Extreme performance is overkill for most users
– Requires a motherboard with PCIe 5.0 support
User Impressions:
Reviewers for this SSD are typically high-end PC builders and tech enthusiasts who are blown away by its speed and responsiveness. They confirm its ability to handle the most demanding applications with ease, making it a future-proof investment for cutting-edge systems.
4. Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD
Much like its “w/Hub” sibling, the Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD is a fantastic choice for external storage, offering robust performance in a sleek, compact package. Without the integrated hub, it’s even more streamlined, focusing purely on rapid data transfer and portability. Its impressive read/write speeds are more than enough to handle your PS4 Pro game library, significantly cutting down on transfer times and providing a smooth external gaming experience. Its durability means it can handle the occasional bump or splash.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact design for easy portability
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (requires firm insertion)
– Blazing-fast performance 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
– Dust- and water-resistant (rated IP65), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Comes with a protective silicone case
– Compatible with mobile phones, iPads, tablets, Macs, PCs, cameras, and more
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for external PS4 Pro game storage
– Highly durable and travel-ready with IP65 rating
– Super compact and lightweight
– Wide compatibility with other devices
Cons:
– External drive, occupies a USB port
– Requires careful insertion of the Type-C connector
– Not an internal upgrade option for PS4 Pro
User Impressions:
Customers praise the Lexar Professional Go for its robust build, compact size, and impressive speeds, making it ideal for both professional use and everyday storage. Its compatibility with various devices is a significant plus, and many users find it reliable for expanding game libraries.
5. Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD
The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD stands out as a highly versatile and powerful external storage solution. With incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, it pushes the boundaries of external drive speeds, making it an excellent candidate if you’re looking for a top-tier Lexar best 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro external storage. Its explicit compatibility with PS4 and PS5 consoles is a huge plus, ensuring a plug-and-play experience. The slim, durable metal design means it won’t take up much space and can withstand daily use.
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 (iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
– Wide compatibility with mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5
– Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures
– Equipped with a Type-C data cable for convenience
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Blazing-fast external speeds for quicker transfers
– Explicitly compatible with PS4 and PS5
– Slim, premium metal design
– Excellent thermal management
– Robust security features with AES encryption
Cons:
– USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds might not be fully utilized by PS4 Pro’s USB ports
– External drive, so it uses a USB port
– Not an internal upgrade
User Impressions:
Users frequently highlight the SL500’s sleek design and impressive speed. Its compact form factor makes it a favorite for travel and on-the-go professionals. Gamers appreciate its reliability and ease of use with consoles, noting the fast transfer rates.
6. Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD
If durability is your top priority for a portable SSD, the Lexar Armor 700 is your champion. Rated IP66 for extreme water and dust protection and built to withstand 3-meter drops, this SSD is practically bulletproof. Combine that ruggedness with blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds (up to 2000MB/s), and you have an ideal external Lexar best 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro, especially if your gaming setup is a bit more adventurous or you move your console often. It’s built to last and perform.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance (2000MB/s max read/write)
– Rated IP66 for water and dust protection
– Rugged design withstands up to 3-meter drops
– Supports Apple Pro Res recording (iPhone 15 Pro/Max)
– Unique Thermal Control Design for optimal temperatures
– Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iPhone 15/16 series, cameras, gaming consoles
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption
– Includes a Type-C and USB-A all-in-one cable
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Unmatched durability and protection (IP66, 3m drop resistance)
– Super-fast external transfer speeds
– Excellent thermal management
– Wide compatibility, including gaming consoles
– Advanced security features
Cons:
– USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds might be bottlenecked by PS4 Pro’s USB ports
– More robust design might be slightly bulkier than other portables
– External drive, uses a USB port
User Impressions:
Customers rave about the Armor 700’s incredible toughness, trusting it in harsh environments. They also appreciate its fast performance and versatility across devices. Many call it the perfect “adventure” SSD for those who need reliable storage on the go.
7. Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub
This is the 1TB version of the first product we reviewed, offering the same fantastic features in a smaller capacity. While the keyword targets a Lexar 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro, this 1TB option is still a stellar portable SSD if your storage needs aren’t quite as high, or if you’re looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option with the same versatility. It provides the same blazing speeds, robust build, and handy integrated hub, making it a great external companion for your PS4 Pro, albeit with less space.
Key Features:
– Ultra-compact design for portability
– Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (requires firm insertion)
– Blazing-fast performance up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
– Dust-proof and water-resistant (IP65 rated), drop-resistant up to 1 meter
– Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Excellent portability and durability
– High read/write speeds for quick game transfers
– Built-in hub is a fantastic bonus for other devices
– Robust construction for peace of mind
– More budget-friendly than the 2TB version
Cons:
– Only 1TB capacity, which might not be enough for some gamers
– External drive, so it occupies a USB port on your PS4 Pro
– Wireless connector may require careful insertion for proper function
User Impressions:
Similar to its 2TB counterpart, users love the convenience, speed, and ruggedness of this portable SSD. The integrated hub is a frequently praised feature, adding significant value for those with multiple devices. It’s considered a reliable option for expanding game storage.
8. Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD
The Lexar ES3 External SSD is a straightforward and highly effective solution for expanding your PS4 Pro’s storage. It’s all about speed and simplicity, boasting read speeds up to 1050MB/s – significantly faster than traditional hard drives. Its built-in heat dissipation ensures stable performance during prolonged use, and its drop-resistant design provides peace of mind. For a hassle-free, plug-and-play external storage upgrade, this Lexar 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
– Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds
– 9.5X faster than hard disk drives
– Built-in double layer graphite sheets for enhanced heat dissipation
– Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for durability
– Plug-and-play compatibility with 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable
– Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software
– Access to Lexar Recovery Tool for accidentally deleted files
Pros:
– Very fast external transfer speeds
– Excellent heat management
– Good durability for everyday use
– Easy plug-and-play setup with included universal cable
– Data encryption and recovery tools included
Cons:
– External drive, uses a USB port on your PS4 Pro
– Not as rugged as the Armor 700 series
– Not an internal upgrade option
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the ES3 for its no-frills, high-performance approach. They note the significant speed increase over HDDs and the convenience of the universal cable. The heat dissipation features are also a plus for ensuring consistent performance.
9. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is another top-tier internal NVMe SSD, designed for high-performance gaming on systems like the PS5 and modern PCs. With exceptional speeds up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write, it’s a fantastic upgrade for compatible systems, offering dramatically reduced load times. While it’s not an internal solution for the PS4 Pro, it’s explicitly compatible with PlayStation 5, making it a great option for PS5 owners looking to expand their storage and play PS4 games with improved performance via backward compatibility.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
– Designed with a heatsink for better performance 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 speed
– Compatible with PlayStation 5
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds for PS5 and PC gaming
– Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management
– Excellent power efficiency
– Significantly reduces load times on compatible systems
– Ideal for expanding PS5 storage, including PS4 games
Cons:
– Not compatible as an internal drive for PS4 Pro
– Performance is overkill for older console generations
– Would require an external NVMe enclosure for use as external PS4 Pro storage.
User Impressions:
PS5 and PC users consistently praise the NM790 for its incredible speed and ease of installation. The heatsink is frequently mentioned as effective in keeping temperatures down, even during intense gaming sessions. It’s seen as a smart and cost-effective upgrade for next-gen performance.
10. Lexar 2TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid State Drive
This is arguably the absolute best Lexar 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro if you’re looking for an internal upgrade! The Lexar NS100 is a classic 2.5-inch SATA III SSD, perfectly compatible with the PS4 Pro’s internal drive bay. It offers a significant performance boost over the stock hard drive, with sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s. This means faster boot times for your console, quicker game loads, and a much more responsive system overall. It’s a reliable, durable, and cost-effective way to fully transform your PS4 Pro’s performance.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– 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 (Total Bytes Written) for 2TB version
– Three-year limited product support
Pros:
– Direct internal replacement for PS4 Pro’s hard drive
– Significantly faster than the stock HDD
– Improves console boot times and game loading speeds
– Highly reliable and durable due to no moving parts
– Cost-effective internal upgrade
Cons:
– Speeds are lower compared to NVMe drives (but perfect for PS4 Pro’s SATA III interface)
– Installation requires opening your PS4 Pro console
– Only three-year limited support compared to five years for many other Lexar SSDs
User Impressions:
Users who’ve upgraded their older consoles or PCs with the NS100 consistently report a dramatic improvement in speed and responsiveness. They highlight the ease of installation and the immediate noticeable difference in load times and overall system snappiness. It’s widely regarded as a solid, dependable performance upgrade.
Choosing Your Lexar Best 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro: Internal vs. External
When picking the Lexar best 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro, the first big decision is whether you want an internal or external drive:
- Internal SSD (e.g., Lexar NS100): This replaces the PS4 Pro’s built-in hard drive. It offers the fastest possible game loading directly from the console’s primary storage and is completely self-contained. Installation requires opening the console.
- External SSD (e.g., Lexar SL500, Armor 700, ES3, Professional Go): These connect via a USB 3.0 port on your PS4 Pro. They’re incredibly easy to set up (just plug and play!) and provide a huge boost in speed for games stored on them. They don’t require opening your console but do take up a USB port.
For many, the ease of external setup makes it a very appealing choice, especially with the speeds Lexar’s portable SSDs offer. However, if you want the most integrated and slightly faster experience for all your games (including OS functions), an internal upgrade is the way to go.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Lexar SSDs for PS4 Pro
Q1: Can I really put an SSD in my PS4 Pro? How big of a difference does it make?
A1: Absolutely! The PS4 Pro uses a standard 2.5-inch SATA III hard drive, which can be replaced with a compatible 2.5-inch SATA III SSD like the Lexar NS100. The difference is significant, especially in load times for games and navigating the console’s menus. You’ll notice games booting faster, levels loading quicker, and overall snappier performance compared to the original mechanical hard drive.
Q2: Is a 2TB SSD enough space for my PS4 Pro games?
A2: For most gamers, a 2TB SSD offers ample space. Modern AAA titles can range from 50GB to well over 100GB, so a 2TB drive can comfortably hold 15-30 large games, plus smaller titles, DLC, and saves. This means you won’t have to constantly delete games to make space, greatly enhancing your gaming experience.
Q3: Do I need a special enclosure to use an external Lexar SSD with my PS4 Pro?
A3: No, if you buy a dedicated portable external SSD like the Lexar SL500, Armor 700, or Professional Go series, it comes ready to plug and play with your PS4 Pro’s USB 3.0 port. You just connect it, format it through the PS4 settings, and you’re good to go.
Q4: Will using an external SSD improve my PS4 Pro’s performance as much as an internal one?
A4: For game loading speeds, the difference between a high-quality external SSD (connected via USB 3.0) and an internal SATA III SSD on a PS4 Pro is often negligible, sometimes favoring external slightly due to less system overhead. Both offer a massive improvement over the stock HDD. An internal SSD might provide a marginal boost to the console’s boot-up time and general OS responsiveness, but for game loading, they’re both excellent.
Q5: Are NVMe SSDs (like the Lexar NM790 or Play) compatible with the PS4 Pro?
A5: No, NVMe SSDs are not compatible as internal drives for the PS4 Pro. The PS4 Pro uses a SATA III interface, while NVMe drives require a PCIe M.2 slot. While some NVMe drives are great for PS5, they simply won’t fit or function inside a PS4 Pro. You could potentially use an NVMe drive in an external USB enclosure, but that would negate most of its speed advantages due to the USB bottleneck.
Q6: How do I install an internal Lexar 2TB SSD in my PS4 Pro?
A6: The process involves opening your PS4 Pro. First, back up your data! Then, slide off the hard drive cover, unscrew the bracket holding the original HDD, remove the old drive, insert the new 2.5-inch SATA III SSD into the bracket, screw it back in, and slide it back into the console. Finally, you’ll need to re-install the PS4 system software from a USB drive. Sony provides official guides for this, and many helpful video tutorials are available online.
Q7: What Lexar SSD is recommended if I also plan to upgrade to a PS5 in the future?
A7: If you’re planning a PS5 upgrade, consider a high-performance NVMe SSD like the Lexar PLAY SSD with Heatsink or the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink. These drives are specifically designed and approved for PS5 (and powerful PCs). You can use a compatible Lexar portable SSD (like the SL500 or Armor 700) as external storage for both your PS4 Pro and PS5, making it a versatile choice.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading to a Lexar 2TB SSD for PS4 Pro is one of the best investments you can make to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you opt for the straightforward internal upgrade with the Lexar NS100 or choose the convenient and speedy external route with a portable powerhouse like the Lexar SL500 or Armor 700, you’re guaranteed faster load times, more storage, and a more responsive console.
Consider your budget, ease of installation preference (internal vs. external), and any future console upgrade plans when making your choice. No matter which Lexar SSD you pick from this list, you’re choosing a path to a more enjoyable and less frustrating gaming journey!