Is your PC feeling sluggish? Are those game load times testing your patience? Or maybe your creative projects are bottlenecked by slow storage? If you’re serious about performance and need massive space, upgrading to a 4TB NVMe SSD is a game-changer. These tiny powerhouses slot right into your motherboard, offering blazing-fast data transfer speeds that traditional SATA SSDs can only dream of.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of high-capacity solid-state drives, helping you discover the best 4TB SSD NVMe for your specific needs, whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a professional content creator, or just someone who demands top-tier speed and reliability. We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top 10 picks, highlighting what makes each one stand out. Let’s get started!
What Makes a Great NVMe SSD?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly touch on what to look for:
- PCIe Generation: PCIe Gen 4 is the current standard for high performance, offering speeds up to 7,000 MB/s or more. PCIe Gen 5 is emerging but still very new and often overkill for most users.
- Read/Write Speeds: Higher numbers mean faster data transfer, crucial for large file operations and quick application loading.
- Endurance (TBW): Terabytes Written indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime. Higher is better for heavy users.
- Controller & NAND Type: These influence performance, efficiency, and longevity.
- Heatsink: High-performance NVMe drives can get hot. A heatsink helps maintain optimal performance and prevent thermal throttling.
- Compatibility: Ensure it works with your motherboard (M.2 slot, PCIe generation). PS5 compatibility is also a big plus for gamers!
Ready to find your next storage upgrade? Let’s explore the best 4TB SSD NVMe options available today.
Our Top 10 Best 4TB SSD NVMe Picks
1. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4×4
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus represents a fantastic blend of cutting-edge technology and impressive performance, designed to tackle demanding tasks with ease. What makes it truly stand out is its intelligent thermal control combined with versatile PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility, ensuring you’re ready for future hardware while staying cool under pressure. If you’re looking for one of the best 4TB SSD NVMe drives that balances raw speed with smart efficiency, this one’s a serious contender.
Key Features:
– GROUNDBREAKING READ/WRITE SPEEDS: Up to 7,250/6,300MB/s sequential speeds.
– LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY: Full power harnessed with Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0.
– EXCEPTIONAL THERMAL CONTROL: Efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller for less power usage and stable performance.
– OPTIMIZED PERFORMANCE: Compatible with PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 for enhanced bandwidth.
– NEVER MISS AN UPDATE: Magician Software keeps your drive updated and healthy.
Pros:
– Excellent sequential read/write speeds for rapid file transfers.
– Superb thermal management prevents overheating.
– Future-proof with PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility.
– Samsung’s Magician software offers great control and monitoring.
Cons:
– PCIe 5.0 x2 mode might not deliver full Gen 5 speeds if you’re expecting it.
– Premium price point compared to some competitors.
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise the 990 EVO Plus for its noticeable speed boost in everyday tasks and gaming, along with its consistent performance even under heavy loads. Many appreciate the peace of mind offered by Samsung’s reliable hardware and useful software.
2. Crucial P310 4TB PCIe Gen4 2280 NVMe M.2 SSD
While the naming might be a bit confusing given Crucial’s lineup, this 4TB PCIe Gen4 drive focuses heavily on efficiency, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize performance without excessive power consumption. It’s particularly appealing for laptop users or those building compact systems where keeping temperatures and battery drain low is crucial.
Key Features:
– POWER EFFICIENCY: Provides up to 40% better performance-to-power ratio than previous Gen4 SSDs.
Pros:
– Significantly improved power efficiency.
– Good for laptops and systems where heat and power draw are concerns.
– Still offers respectable PCIe Gen4 performance.
Cons:
– Speed might not match top-tier Gen4 drives (specific speeds not provided in features).
– Limited detailed feature information provided for a full comparison.
User Impressions:
Customers often highlight its solid performance for the price, especially appreciating its low power consumption which contributes to cooler operation and potentially longer battery life in portable devices. It’s seen as a reliable and cost-effective upgrade.
3. Crucial P3 Plus 4TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2
The Crucial P3 Plus steps up as a robust and reliable PCIe Gen4 solution, hitting a sweet spot for those seeking significant performance upgrades without breaking the bank. It boasts impressive sequential read speeds and is rated for excellent longevity, making it a dependable choice for general computing, gaming, and content creation. Its backward compatibility also ensures a smooth upgrade path.
Key Features:
– NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology with up to 5000MB/s sequential reads.
– Random read/write 650K/900K IOPS.
– Spacious storage up to 4TB.
– Performs up to 43% faster than the fastest Gen3 NVMe SSDs.
– Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity and reliability.
– Backward compatibility with Gen3.
Pros:
– Strong Gen4 performance for its price segment.
– Excellent longevity and reliability rating.
– Backward compatible with Gen3 systems.
– Spacious 4TB capacity.
Cons:
– Not the absolute fastest Gen4 drive on the market.
– Lacks a bundled heatsink.
User Impressions:
Many users find the P3 Plus to be an exceptional value, delivering noticeable performance improvements over older drives. Its reliability and ease of installation are frequently mentioned as positive points, making it a popular choice for mainstream upgrades.
4. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN850X is built for speed demons and serious gamers who demand the absolute best in loading times and responsiveness. With insane speeds and an optional heatsink version, this drive is designed to keep your system performing at its peak during intense gaming sessions. The WD_BLACK Dashboard adds a layer of control and customization, making it a true enthusiast’s choice among the best 4TB SSD NVMe options.
Key Features:
– TRANSFORM YOUR PC: Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
– MORE ROOM, MORE GAMES: Capacities up to 8TB with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
– HEATSINK FOR THE WIN: Optional heatsink version for sustained peak performance.
– DO MORE WITH DASHBOARD: Downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard for health monitoring, RGB customization, and Game Mode 2.0.
– FUTURE-FORWARD FEATURES: Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds ideal for gaming and demanding applications.
– Optional heatsink for optimal thermal management.
– WD_BLACK Dashboard offers powerful control and customization (including RGB).
– High endurance and advanced features.
Cons:
– Premium price, especially with the heatsink.
– Dashboard software is Windows-only.
User Impressions:
Gamers consistently rave about the SN850X’s ability to drastically cut down load times in games, often citing its consistent performance even during extended play. The optional heatsink is a highly valued feature, and the dashboard software provides a great user experience.
5. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal
As the flagship offering from the world’s #1 flash memory brand, the Samsung 990 PRO sets a new benchmark for PCIe 4.0 performance. It delivers near-max speeds, phenomenal random performance improvements, and impressive power efficiency. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, video editor, or data analyst, this drive offers unparalleled power and efficiency, making it arguably the best 4TB SSD NVMe for high-end users.
Key Features:
– MEET THE NEXT GEN: Near max PCIe 4.0 performance with lightning-fast speeds.
– REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: More than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
– THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: Read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
– PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
– IT’S A POWER MOVE: Up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO.
Pros:
– Top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds and random performance.
– Excellent power efficiency for sustained performance.
– Samsung’s reputation for reliability and quality.
– Ideal for professional workloads and competitive gaming.
Cons:
– One of the most expensive 4TB NVMe SSDs.
– Does not include a heatsink by default (some retailers offer bundles).
User Impressions:
Users are consistently blown away by the 990 PRO’s speed and responsiveness, reporting instantaneous load times for applications and games. Its efficiency and cool operation (even without a heatsink for many users) are frequently highlighted as major benefits.
6. Western Digital 4TB WD Blue SN5000 NVMe Internal Solid
The WD Blue SN5000 is a fantastic choice for creative professionals and general users who need expanded storage and reliable performance for their daily workflows. It offers solid PCIe Gen4 speeds optimized for multitasking and AI-driven applications, backed by Western Digital’s robust nCache 4.0 Technology and high endurance. Plus, it comes with data migration software, a thoughtful bonus for upgraders.
Key Features:
– EXPANDED STORAGE: Up to 4TB capacity for more creative work.
– BOOST YOUR FLOW: Harness AI and streamline workflow with PCIe Gen 4 and up to 5,500MB/s read speeds.
– PRO MULTITASKING: Smooth application switching with high-end NVMe technology.
– DEPENDABLE ENDURANCE: Up to 1,200TBW (4TB model) for creative work.
– FREE Acronis True Image: Data migration software included.
Pros:
– Strong performance for creative and professional use.
– High endurance rating for heavy workloads.
– Includes useful Acronis True Image software for easy migration.
– Good balance of speed and capacity for its target audience.
Cons:
– Read speeds (5,500MB/s) are not as high as the absolute top-tier Gen4 drives.
– Geared more towards professionals than extreme gamers.
User Impressions:
Professionals praise the SN5000 for its reliability and consistent performance when handling large media files and complex software. The included Acronis software is a definite plus for hassle-free installation and data transfer.
7. WD_BLACK 4TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN7100 strikes a superb balance between high-end gaming performance and power efficiency, making it particularly well-suited for gaming laptops and handheld devices. It delivers impressive Gen4 speeds while consuming less power, ensuring longer battery life during portable gaming sessions. With its robust endurance rating, it’s built to handle your entire game library for years to come.
Key Features:
– Speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
– Up to 35% faster performance than previous drives.
– Designed for serious gamers, with a PCIe Gen4 interface and latest TLC 3D NAND.
– Available in capacities up to 4TB.
– Built with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, with up to 100% more power efficiency.
– Create confidently with up to 2,400TBW (4TB model) endurance.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for a gaming SSD, especially for its price.
– High power efficiency ideal for portable gaming devices.
– Very high endurance rating for longevity.
– Reliable WD_BLACK branding.
Cons:
– Max speeds listed are for 1-2TB models; actual 4TB speed might vary slightly.
– Does not include a heatsink.
User Impressions:
Laptop gamers and those with handheld consoles are especially fond of the SN7100 for its impressive performance-to-power ratio. Users note significant improvements in game loading and system responsiveness, often without causing excessive heat.
8. fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD for
The fanxiang S880E is an exciting contender that punches above its weight, offering extreme PCIe 4.0 performance and PS5 compatibility at a highly competitive price. With blazing-fast read/write speeds, support for NVMe 2.0 and DirectStorage, and an innovative thermal solution, this drive is a fantastic value proposition for gamers and professionals alike. Its focus on keeping cool under load is a big plus.
Key Features:
– PCIe 4.0 SSD Extreme Performance: Up to 7300/6300 MB/s sequential read/write.
– NVME SSD for Gaming: Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage for faster loads.
– Professional Performance for Working: High-quality 3D NAND flash for quick boot, app loading, and file processing.
– Efficient Thermal Control: Graphite coated copper foil and aluminum foil layer for temperature reduction.
– 5-Year Service: Backed by a 5-year after-sales service.
– Note: Not for Mac OS.
Pros:
– Outstanding speeds for a value-oriented Gen4 drive.
– PS5 and DirectStorage compatible.
– Effective thermal control design.
– Attractive price point for the performance offered.
– Good warranty and technical support.
Cons:
– Brand might be less recognized than Samsung or WD.
– Not compatible with Mac OS.
User Impressions:
Early adopters and budget-conscious gamers are highly impressed with the S880E’s raw speed and its ability to compete with more expensive drives. The PS5 compatibility is a major draw, and the effective thermal management helps maintain peak performance.
9. Silicon Power 4TB UD90 NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 SSD
The Silicon Power UD90 is a reliable and feature-rich PCIe 4.0 SSD that prioritizes data integrity and long-term stability. Beyond its double bandwidth over Gen3, it incorporates advanced technologies like SLC Caching, LDPC coding, RAID support, and E2E data protection to ensure your data is safe and transmitted accurately. This makes it a strong choice for users who value robust data protection alongside performance.
Key Features:
– Nearly double the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0.
– Improved sequential read/write and random read/write performance with support for SLC Caching.
– Supports low density parity check (LDPC) coding for data accuracy and reliability.
– Supports RAID to protect data in case of drive failure.
– Equipped with built-in E2E data protection for enhanced data transfer integrity.
– 5-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Strong focus on data integrity and reliability.
– Good performance boost over PCIe 3.0.
– Features like RAID support and E2E data protection are excellent for data-critical applications.
– Long 5-year warranty.
Cons:
– Specific speed ratings are not detailed in the provided features.
– Might not offer the absolute top-tier speeds of premium Gen4 drives.
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the Silicon Power UD90 for its dependable performance and the peace of mind offered by its robust data protection features. It’s often recommended for those seeking a reliable workhorse SSD that won’t let them down.
10. Empowered PC TEAMGROUP T-Force G50 4TB PCIe Gen4x4 M.2
The TEAMGROUP T-Force G50 is an excellent value-driven PCIe Gen4 SSD that doesn’t compromise on essential features. It offers solid performance with sequential speeds up to 5,000 MB/s, leverages Host Memory Buffer (HMB) for efficiency, and boasts a high endurance rating. Crucially, it includes a patented graphene heat spreader, making it suitable for both desktops and PS5 consoles by ensuring stable performance under load.
Key Features:
– UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL: Sequential read speeds up to 5,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 4,500 MB/s.
– RELIABILITY: Supports smart algorithm management (TRIM) and a robust 2600 TBW rating.
– FEATURES: 3D TLC NAND flash memory, SLC caching, and a patented graphene heat spreader.
– BUILT FOR SPEED, DESIGNED FOR VALUE: Ideal for DIY enthusiasts, gamers, creators, and professionals.
– WIDE COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with Intel/AMD platforms, Windows, MAC OS, Linux, and PS5.
– 5-Year Limited Warranty.
Pros:
– Great performance-to-value ratio.
– Includes an effective graphene heat spreader for thermal management.
– High endurance rating (2600 TBW).
– PS5 compatible and suitable for laptops.
– Good warranty and S.M.A.R.T. software for monitoring.
Cons:
– DRAM-less design (though HMB mitigates this).
– Speeds are mid-range for Gen4.
User Impressions:
Many users praise the T-Force G50 for its affordable price point while still delivering a noticeable performance upgrade, especially for gaming and general use. The integrated graphene heatsink is a popular feature, ensuring it runs cool in various setups, including the PS5.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is an NVMe SSD and why is it better than a SATA SSD?
A: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a communication protocol specifically designed for flash memory, unlike SATA, which was originally developed for hard drives. NVMe SSDs connect directly to your motherboard via a PCIe slot (often in an M.2 form factor), offering significantly higher speeds (up to 7,000+ MB/s) and lower latency compared to SATA SSDs (limited to around 550 MB/s). This means much faster boot times, application loading, and file transfers.
Q2: Why should I choose a 4TB NVMe SSD?
A: A 4TB NVMe SSD offers a sweet spot between massive storage capacity and extreme performance. For gamers, it means installing dozens of AAA titles without worrying about space. For content creators, it provides ample room for large project files (4K video, high-resolution images) that benefit greatly from fast read/write speeds. It’s also an excellent choice for a single, primary drive that handles both your operating system and all your data.
Q3: Do I need a PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD, or is Gen3 enough?
A: PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs offer roughly double the sequential read/write speeds of Gen3 drives. For most everyday tasks, web browsing, and general gaming, a Gen3 drive is still incredibly fast. However, for hardcore gamers, professional video editors, large file transfers, or users planning to utilize features like Microsoft’s DirectStorage, a Gen4 drive offers a noticeable performance advantage and is more future-proof. Always check your motherboard’s specifications to ensure it supports PCIe Gen4.
Q4: What is a heatsink, and do I need one for my NVMe SSD?
A: A heatsink is a component designed to dissipate heat from the SSD. High-performance NVMe SSDs, especially Gen4 drives under heavy load, can generate significant heat. If they get too hot, they can “thermal throttle,” meaning their performance slows down to prevent damage. For sustained heavy workloads (e.g., long gaming sessions, continuous large file transfers), a heatsink is highly recommended to maintain peak performance. Many motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can buy SSDs with pre-attached ones.
Q5: Can I use these 4TB NVMe SSDs in my PS5?
A: Yes, many of the high-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs (like the Samsung 990 PRO, WD_BLACK SN850X, fanxiang S880E, and TEAMGROUP T-Force G50) are compatible with the PS5’s internal expansion slot. Sony requires a drive with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500MB/s and recommends a heatsink. Always check the specific SSD’s compatibility with the PS5 before purchasing.
Q6: What does TBW (Terabytes Written) mean for an SSD?
A: TBW stands for “Terabytes Written,” and it’s an endurance rating that indicates the total amount of data that can be written to an SSD over its lifetime before it’s expected to fail. For example, a 1200 TBW rating means you can write 1200 terabytes of data to the drive. For a 4TB SSD, this is a massive amount of data, meaning most users will never reach this limit during the drive’s practical lifespan. Higher TBW indicates greater durability and longevity, especially for heavy users.
Q7: How do I install an NVMe SSD?
A: Installing an NVMe SSD is generally straightforward. You’ll need an M.2 slot on your motherboard (most modern motherboards have at least one). Simply insert the SSD into the slot at an angle, push it down, and secure it with a small screw. If your drive comes with a heatsink, you might need to install that first or use your motherboard’s integrated heatsink. After physical installation, you may need to initialize and format the drive in your operating system’s Disk Management utility before it appears.
Conclusion
Choosing the best 4TB SSD NVMe comes down to balancing your specific needs for speed, capacity, and budget. Whether you’re a professional needing top-tier performance for demanding workloads, a gamer looking to eliminate load screens, or just someone seeking a massive upgrade in system responsiveness, there’s a fantastic NVMe drive out there for you.
From the raw power of the Samsung 990 PRO and WD_BLACK SN850X to the excellent value propositions of the Crucial P3 Plus or fanxiang S880E, each drive offers unique strengths. Consider your primary use case, your motherboard’s capabilities, and whether a heatsink is a priority. Whichever you choose, moving to a 4TB NVMe SSD will undoubtedly transform your computing experience with lightning-fast storage!