Are you tired of sluggish loading times, constantly running out of storage, or dealing with unreliable drives? If you’re a gamer, a creative professional, or just someone who needs a serious upgrade, a 4TB SSD might just be your next best friend. And when it comes to solid-state drives, Samsung is consistently at the top of the game, known for its cutting-edge technology, reliability, and blazing fast speeds.
Choosing the best 4TB Samsung SSD for your needs can feel a bit overwhelming with so many great options out there. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, diving deep into the top contenders from Samsung’s impressive lineup. Whether you need an internal powerhouse for your gaming rig or a rugged external drive for your on-the-go projects, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the finest 4TB Samsung SSDs that money can buy!
1. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD
If you’re looking for the pinnacle of internal storage performance, the Samsung 990 PRO SSD is a game-changer. This PCIe 4.0 M.2 drive is built for those who demand nothing but the absolute best, delivering near-max performance that’s perfect for hardcore gamers, professional video editors, and anyone doing heavy data analysis. It boasts incredible read and write speeds, significantly outperforming its predecessors, and offers excellent power efficiency, making sure your system runs cooler and more effectively. It’s definitely a standout choice for high-end PCs and gaming consoles.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 interface for lightning-fast speeds
- Up to 7450/6900 MB/s sequential read/write speeds
- Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO
- Enhanced power efficiency for less consumption
- Ideal for gaming, video editing, and data analysis
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds for rapid loading and transfers
- Excellent random performance for demanding applications
- Highly power-efficient
- Renowned Samsung reliability
- Perfect for next-gen gaming and professional workloads
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Cons:
- Premium price point
- Requires a PCIe 4.0 compatible motherboard for full speed
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User Impressions: Users rave about the 990 PRO’s sheer speed, noting significant improvements in game load times and software responsiveness. Many consider it an essential upgrade for high-performance builds, appreciating its consistent performance under heavy loads.
2. SAMSUNG 870 EVO 4TB 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal SSD
The Samsung 870 EVO is a true workhorse, an all-star internal SSD that leverages Samsung’s pioneering technology to offer indisputable performance and reliability within the SATA interface. It’s perfect for upgrading older laptops or desktops, or for those who need a dependable and cost-effective internal storage solution without moving to NVMe. This drive maximizes the SATA limit with impressive sequential speeds and offers robust endurance, making it suitable for everything from everyday computing to 8K video processing. Its wide compatibility means it’s a safe bet for nearly any system.
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Key Features:
- SATA III interface with up to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds
- Accelerates write speeds with a larger variable buffer
- Up to 2,400 TBW endurance for long-term reliability
- Broad compatibility with major host systems and applications
- Ideal for PC upgrades and everyday computing tasks
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Pros:
- Excellent performance for a SATA drive
- Industry-leading reliability and endurance
- Highly compatible with a wide range of systems
- More affordable than NVMe alternatives
- Easy to install
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe SSDs (due to SATA interface limits)
- 2.5-inch form factor might not fit ultra-compact systems
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User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the 870 EVO’s plug-and-play ease and immediate performance boost, especially when upgrading from traditional hard drives. Its rock-solid reliability is also a recurring theme in positive reviews.
3. SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 4TB External Solid State Drive
For creators and users on the move, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a fantastic external storage solution. This sleek, compact drive delivers impressive speed thanks to its PCIe NVMe technology, making it almost twice as fast as its predecessor, the T5. It’s designed for those who need to quickly transfer large files – think video editing, photography, or large project backups – without being tethered to a desktop. Its durable unibody construction offers solid shock resistance, giving you peace of mind whether you’re working from a café or filming on location.
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Key Features:
- Portable external SSD with PCIe NVMe technology
- Fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s
- Compact and lightweight design
- Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet
- Wide compatibility with PCs, Macs, Android devices, and cameras (including iPhone 15 Pro ProRes 4K)
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast external transfer speeds
- Extremely portable and durable
- Excellent compatibility across devices
- Great for professional content creation on the go
- Reliable Samsung build quality
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Cons:
- Price per GB is higher than internal SATA SSDs
- Sustained writes might see slight speed drops after very long transfers
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User Impressions: Users love the T7 for its speed and portability, often using it for quick backups or as a primary drive for creative projects when traveling. Its robust design is frequently praised for protecting valuable data.
4. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4×4 | Internal Gaming SSD
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD aims to offer a superb blend of performance and efficiency, positioning itself as an excellent choice for gamers and professionals seeking high-speed internal storage. This drive leverages the latest NAND memory to achieve groundbreaking sequential read/write speeds, making quick work of large file transfers. What sets it apart is its exceptional thermal control and power efficiency, ensuring sustained performance without overheating. Plus, its optimized compatibility with both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 means it’s ready for current and future systems.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4×4 (and PCIe 5.0 x2 compatible) interface
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s
- Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 for enhanced large-file performance
- Exceptional thermal control with nickel-coated controller
- Magician Software for drive health monitoring and updates
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Pros:
- Very high read/write speeds for rapid tasks
- Excellent thermal management prevents performance throttling
- Good power efficiency
- Future-ready with PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility
- Reliable with Samsung’s Magician software support
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Cons:
- Not full PCIe 5.0 x4 speed (operates at x2 on Gen5)
- May require a heatsink for sustained peak performance in some systems
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User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the 990 EVO Plus for its balanced performance, noting that it provides a significant speed boost for daily tasks, gaming, and content creation while maintaining a cool operating temperature.
5. SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 External SSD
When speed is paramount for your external storage, the Samsung T9 Portable SSD truly shines. This is Samsung’s fastest portable SSD for creators, boasting sustained read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface. Whether you’re loading massive projects, editing high-resolution video directly from the drive, or transferring enormous files, the T9 keeps pace even during longer sessions thanks to its dynamic thermal guard. It’s built for demanding workflows and offers extensive compatibility across various devices. This is one of the best 4TB Samsung SSD options for professionals.
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Key Features:
- USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface for sustained speeds up to 2,000MB/s
- Dynamic Thermal Guard prevents overheating during heavy use
- Robust and stable design for longevity
- Wide compatibility with desktops, cameras, gaming consoles, and iPhones
- Magician Software for drive management
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Pros:
- Extremely fast external transfer speeds
- Excellent thermal management for sustained performance
- Durable and reliable build
- Ideal for professional content creation workflows
- Broad device compatibility
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for full speed (many devices still use Gen 2×1)
- Premium price point
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User Impressions: Users are incredibly impressed by the T9’s speed, especially those working with large video files or complex design projects. Its ability to maintain performance even under heavy load is a frequently praised feature.
6. Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 4TB, PCIe 5.0×4 M.2 2280, Seq. Internal SSD
Stepping into the future of storage, the Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 4TB offers breakthrough PCIe 5.0 performance. This is for the bleeding edge enthusiast or professional who wants to supercharge their workflow with unimaginable speeds, up to 14,800/13,400 MB/s sequential read/write. It’s twice as fast as the already impressive 990 PRO SSD, making it perfect for AI applications, rapid game loads, and intensive multitasking. The 9100 PRO also boasts enhanced power efficiency and advanced thermal control, ensuring peak performance without overheating. This is truly a next-generation best 4TB Samsung SSD for high-end systems.
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Key Features:
- Cutting-edge PCIe 5.0×4 interface
- Up to 14,800/13,400 MB/s sequential read/write speeds
- Extreme random read/write speeds (up to 2,200K/2,600K IOPS)
- 5nm controller for up to 49% improved power efficiency over 990 PRO
- Advanced thermal control
- Magician Software support
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Pros:
- Industry-leading, groundbreaking speeds
- Exceptional for AI, gaming, and professional workloads
- Highly efficient power consumption
- Advanced thermal management
- Future-proof with PCIe 5.0 technology
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Cons:
- Requires a PCIe 5.0 compatible motherboard and CPU
- Very high premium price
- Performance may be bottlenecked by other system components
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User Impressions: While still new, early adopters are blown away by the 9100 PRO’s speed, reporting near-instantaneous load times and seamless handling of the most demanding applications. Its performance is often described as “transformative.”
7. Samsung T7 Shield 4TB Portable SSD – 1050MB/s, Rugged External SSD
For those whose work or lifestyle takes them into tougher environments, the Samsung T7 Shield is your ideal companion. This rugged portable SSD takes the excellent performance of the T7 and wraps it in a robust, go-anywhere shell. With IP65 ratings for water and dust resistance, plus drop protection up to 9.8 feet, this drive is built to withstand the elements. It maintains the speedy 1,050/1,000 MB/s transfer rates of the standard T7, making it perfect for photographers, videographers, or adventurers who need reliable, fast storage that can take a beating.
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Key Features:
- Rugged design with IP65 water and dust resistance
- Drop protection up to 9.8 feet (3 meters)
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface with speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s
- Compatible with PC, Mac, Android, gaming consoles, and cameras
- Compact, palm-sized form factor
- Samsung Magician Software support
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Pros:
- Extremely durable and resistant to environmental hazards
- Fast transfer speeds for large files
- Highly portable for on-the-go professionals
- Excellent compatibility
- Reliable performance in demanding conditions
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Cons:
- Slightly bulkier than the standard T7 due to the rugged casing
- Still slower than USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 drives like the T9
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User Impressions: Users who frequently work outdoors or in demanding environments highly praise the T7 Shield’s durability and peace of mind it offers. Its speed, combined with its resilience, makes it a favorite for field use.
8. SAMSUNG T5 EVO Portable SSD 4TB, USB 3.2 Gen 1 External SSD
If you need massive portable storage with good performance at a more accessible price point, the Samsung T5 EVO Portable SSD is an excellent option. While it uses the USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface (which is slower than Gen 2 or Gen 2×2), it’s optimized for large file transfers with Intelligent TurboWrite, making it significantly faster than traditional external HDDs. Its main draw is the incredible capacity (up to 8TB, with a 4TB model here) in a surprisingly compact and lightweight design. It’s a great choice for gamers, content creators, or anyone wanting to store a huge media library on the go.
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Key Features:
- Massive storage capacities in a compact, portable form
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface (optimized for large file transfers)
- Improved Intelligent TurboWrite for enhanced speed over HDDs
- Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet
- Broad compatibility with desktops, cameras, and gaming consoles
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Pros:
- Excellent value for large portable storage
- Significantly faster than external hard drives
- Very lightweight and easy to carry
- Good durability for a non-ruggedized drive
- Wide compatibility
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Cons:
- Slower than T7 or T9 series portable SSDs
- Not ideal for constant, very high-speed, large file editing directly from the drive
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the T5 EVO for its balance of capacity and portability, often using it as a primary backup or media library drive. Its speed, while not top-tier, is considered more than adequate for everyday use and large file transfers.
9. SAMSUNG 870 QVO SATA III SSD 4TB 2.5″ Internal Solid State Drive
The Samsung 870 QVO is an ideal solution for those seeking maximum storage capacity within the SATA interface, without breaking the bank. As Samsung’s second-generation QLC SSD, the 870 QVO provides an incredible upgrade for everyday PC users looking to ramp up their desktop or laptop with a huge amount of space. It delivers reliable performance with enhanced sequential speeds and sustained performance thanks to Intelligent TurboWrite. If you have a massive game library, countless photos, or extensive video projects, this drive offers a fantastic way to consolidate your data onto a fast, reliable best 4TB Samsung SSD.
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Key Features:
- SATA III interface with up to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds
- Intelligent TurboWrite for accelerated write speeds and sustained performance
- Enhanced reliability (up to 2,880 TBW for 8TB model, proportional for 4TB)
- Easy upgrade process for any 2.5-inch SATA form factor system
- Samsung Magician Software support for drive management
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Pros:
- Excellent capacity-to-price ratio for internal storage
- Significant performance upgrade over traditional HDDs
- Reliable and durable with refined ECC algorithm
- Easy to install and manage
- Perfect for mass storage and large media libraries
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Cons:
- Slower than NVMe SSDs
- QLC NAND can show performance degradation during extremely long, continuous writes once the cache is full (rare for typical use)
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend the 870 QVO for its affordability relative to its large capacity, making it a popular choice for replacing multiple smaller drives or for users needing vast amounts of fast storage for their primary PC.
10. Samsung MU-PG4T0B T9 4TB Portable SSD, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, External SSD (Bundle)
The Samsung MU-PG4T0B T9 Portable SSD is another excellent iteration of Samsung’s fastest external drive, specifically highlighting a potential bundle or listing with included accessories. Like its counterpart (Product 5), this T9 model is designed for creators and professionals who cannot compromise on speed, offering sustained read and write speeds up to 2,000MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. It maintains peak performance even during intensive tasks, thanks to its Dynamic Thermal Guard. The robust and stable design ensures longevity, and its broad compatibility across various devices, including iPhones for ProRes 4K recording, makes it incredibly versatile. This particular listing emphasizes the included cables, which are crucial for optimal performance.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface (up to 2,000MB/s)
- Dynamic Thermal Guard for consistent high performance
- Strong, solid, and stable construction
- Broad device compatibility (desktops, cameras, gaming consoles, iPhones)
- Samsung Magician Software for optimal drive health
- Includes USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables for versatility
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Pros:
- Industry-leading external SSD speeds
- Exceptional thermal management for prolonged heavy use
- Highly durable and built for intense workflows
- Comprehensive compatibility with included cables
- Ideal for high-resolution video and large data sets
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port for maximum speed
- Premium pricing reflects its top-tier performance
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User Impressions: Users requiring the absolute fastest portable storage praise the T9 for its seamless performance in professional video editing and large data transfers, noting that it genuinely keeps up with demanding tasks. The included cables are a welcome addition for ensuring immediate plug-and-play capability.
Frequently Asked Questions about 4TB Samsung SSDs
Choosing the right SSD can be tricky. Here are some common questions to help you out!
Q1: What’s the main difference between NVMe (PCIe) and SATA SSDs?
A1: The main difference lies in speed and interface. SATA SSDs use the older SATA 3.0 interface and typically max out around 560 MB/s. NVMe SSDs, on the other hand, use the PCIe interface, which is much faster, often reaching speeds of several thousands of MB/s. NVMe drives are ideal for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and large file transfers, while SATA drives are excellent for general computing and as cost-effective upgrades from traditional hard drives.
Q2: Is 4TB enough storage for gaming and video editing?
A2: For most users, 4TB is a substantial amount of storage. For gamers, it allows you to store a vast library of modern AAA titles, which can easily take up 100GB+ each. For video editors, 4TB provides ample space for raw footage, project files, and finished exports, especially if you’re working with 4K or 8K video, though extremely large projects might still benefit from additional storage or network-attached storage (NAS) solutions.
Q3: What are the benefits of a portable 4TB Samsung SSD like the T7 or T9?
A3: Portable 4TB Samsung SSDs offer incredible convenience and performance on the go. They are significantly faster and more durable than traditional external hard drives, making them ideal for professionals who need to transfer large files quickly between devices, back up data securely while traveling, or even record high-resolution video directly from cameras or smartphones. Their compact size makes them easy to carry anywhere.
Q4: How does Samsung’s Magician Software help with my SSD?
A4: Samsung Magician Software is a powerful utility designed to help you manage and optimize your Samsung SSD. It allows you to monitor drive health, check performance benchmarks, perform firmware updates, encrypt data for security, and manage over-provisioning for improved longevity and performance. It’s a must-have tool for any Samsung SSD owner.
Q5: Are Samsung SSDs reliable?
A5: Yes, Samsung SSDs are widely regarded as some of the most reliable and highest-performing drives on the market. Samsung produces all of its components in-house, including the NAND flash memory and controllers, allowing for strict quality control and optimized integration. This end-to-end control contributes to their excellent reputation for durability and consistent performance.
Q6: Can I use an internal 4TB Samsung SSD with my laptop?
A6: It depends on your laptop. Many modern laptops support M.2 NVMe SSDs, especially thinner models, while older or larger laptops might use the 2.5-inch SATA form factor. Always check your laptop’s specifications or consult its manual to see what type of SSD it supports and if there’s an available slot.
Q7: What does “TBW” mean in SSD specifications?
A7: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written” and is an endurance rating for SSDs. It indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the drive before it might start experiencing issues. A higher TBW rating means the drive is expected to last longer under heavy write workloads. Samsung SSDs typically have very high TBW ratings, ensuring long-term reliability.
Conclusion
Picking the best 4TB Samsung SSD ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. Whether you’re a demanding gamer needing an internal PCIe 5.0 speed demon like the 9100 PRO, a content creator on the move who relies on the robust T7 Shield, or simply upgrading your existing system with a reliable SATA drive like the 870 EVO, Samsung offers a 4TB solution that’s a cut above the rest.
Each drive in this list brings Samsung’s renowned quality, performance, and reliability to the table. By considering factors like speed, form factor (internal M.2, 2.5-inch, or external portable), durability, and price, you can confidently choose the perfect 4TB Samsung SSD to power your digital life. Happy computing!