Hey there, fellow gamers! Ever felt the frustration of slow load times, limited storage, or painfully long game installations? If you’re tired of waiting around when you could be dominating your favorite virtual worlds, it’s time to talk about external SSDs. These little powerhouses are absolute game-changers, especially for console and PC gaming. We’re diving deep into some of the top contenders, focusing on the Crucial best SSD external hard drive for gaming options, plus a formidable challenger from Samsung, to help you pick the perfect storage solution.
Why settle for less when you can have lightning-fast speeds and ample space for your ever-growing game library? Let’s explore how these devices can transform your gaming experience.
Why an External SSD is a Game-Changer for Gamers
Gone are the days when traditional hard drives (HDDs) were good enough. Modern games are massive, detailed, and demand quick access to data. This is where Solid State Drives (SSDs) shine. An external SSD offers significantly faster read and write speeds compared to an HDD, meaning:
- Blazing Fast Load Times: Say goodbye to long loading screens. Games launch quicker and levels load in a flash.
- Seamless Gameplay: Data streams faster, reducing stuttering and improving overall performance, especially in open-world games.
- Quick Installations & Updates: Spend less time downloading and installing, more time playing.
- Portability: Take your massive game library with you, ready to plug and play on different consoles or PCs.
- Durability: With no moving parts, SSDs are more resistant to drops and bumps, perfect for gamers on the go.
When you’re looking for the Crucial best SSD external hard drive for gaming, you’re looking for performance, reliability, and enough space to store all your digital adventures. Let’s get into what makes these drives stand out.
What to Look For in a Gaming External SSD
Before we jump into the reviews, here’s a quick checklist of what matters most:
- Speed: Look for high read/write speeds (measured in MB/s) for the best performance. USB 3.2 Gen2 or Gen2x2 offers excellent bandwidth.
- Capacity: Games are huge! Consider at least 1TB, but 2TB, 4TB, or even 8TB will give you more breathing room.
- Compatibility: Ensure it works with your gaming setup (PC, Mac, PS4, PS5, Xbox). USB-C is becoming standard, often with USB-A adapters.
- Durability: If you’re moving it around, water, dust, and drop resistance are big pluses.
- Price: Balance performance and capacity with your budget.
Now, let’s dive into the ultimate list of the 10 Crucial best SSD external hard drive for gaming (and one impressive Samsung option) that are ready to level up your setup!
Top 10 Crucial Best SSD External Hard Drive for Gaming & Reviews
1. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2…
This 2TB Crucial X9 portable SSD is a fantastic all-rounder, perfect for gamers who need a balance of speed, capacity, and rugged durability without breaking the bank. Its 1050MB/s speeds drastically cut down load times for your favorite titles, making it an excellent upgrade from a traditional external HDD.
– Key Features:
– High-speed performance up to 1050MB/s
– IP55 water and dust resistance
– Drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters)
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– Compact 2TB storage capacity
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Excellent value for money with solid performance
– Highly durable and portable design
– Wide compatibility across gaming consoles and PCs
– Generous 2TB storage for many games
– Cons:
– Speeds are good but not the absolute fastest available (compared to X10 series)
– Might not be ideal for competitive PC gamers seeking top-tier speeds
– User Impressions: Users love the X9 for its reliable performance and tough build quality. Many highlight its ease of use and significant speed boost over older drives, making it a favorite for expanding console game libraries.
See it on Amazon here
2. Crucial X10 8TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2…
If you’re a serious gamer, content creator, or simply someone who never wants to worry about running out of space, the Crucial X10 8TB is your dream drive. This monster capacity combined with blazing-fast 2,100MB/s read speeds means you can store virtually your entire game collection and access it at lightning speed. It’s truly a top contender for the Crucial best SSD external hard drive for gaming.
– Key Features:
– Ultra-fast speeds up to 2,100MB/s read
– IP65 dust and water resistance
– Drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters)
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– Ultimate 8TB storage capacity
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Unmatched 8TB capacity for a massive game library
– Extreme speeds significantly reduce load times and transfer large game files
– Superior durability with higher IP rating and drop resistance
– Ideal for demanding PC gamers and console users with many titles
– Cons:
– Higher price point due to massive capacity and speed
– Not all devices can fully utilize 2,100MB/s speeds (requires USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port)
– User Impressions: Gamers and professionals alike are blown away by the X10’s sheer speed and storage. The ability to carry an entire digital world in a compact drive earns it high marks for convenience and performance.
See it on Amazon here
3. Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2…
The Crucial X10 4TB delivers the same incredible 2,100MB/s speed as its 8TB sibling, offering a perfect sweet spot for serious gamers who need vast storage but might find 8TB overkill for their current needs. It’s a powerhouse for storing multiple AAA titles and still enjoying rapid load times.
– Key Features:
– Ultra-fast speeds up to 2,100MB/s read
– IP65 dust and water resistance
– Drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters)
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– Ultimate 4TB storage capacity
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Excellent balance of high speed and substantial 4TB capacity
– Robust build quality with enhanced dust and water resistance
– Future-proof speeds for upcoming game titles
– Great for professional gamers and large game collections
– Cons:
– Still a premium price point compared to slower models
– Maximum speed requires compatible USB 3.2 Gen2x2 host port
– User Impressions: Reviewers often praise the X10 4TB for being a “best of both worlds” solution – incredible speed meets ample storage, making it ideal for large gaming libraries that require quick access.
See it on Amazon here
4. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2…
For casual gamers or those just starting to expand their console or PC storage, the Crucial X9 1TB offers a compelling entry point. It provides solid 1050MB/s performance, which is a massive leap over any HDD, in a compact, durable package. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for an affordable, reliable way to boost your gaming experience.
– Key Features:
– High-speed performance up to 1050MB/s
– IP55 water and dust resistance
– Drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters)
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– Compact 1TB storage capacity
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Affordable and excellent starting capacity
– Noticeably faster than traditional external hard drives
– Durable and travel-friendly design
– Wide compatibility ensures it works with almost any device
– Cons:
– 1TB might fill up quickly for avid gamers
– Not the fastest Crucial option available
– User Impressions: Many users find the X9 1TB perfect for everyday use and console game expansion. Its plug-and-play simplicity and reliable performance are frequently highlighted in positive feedback.
See it on Amazon here
5. Crucial X9 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2…
Combining the reliability and excellent 1050MB/s performance of the X9 series with a generous 4TB capacity, this Crucial X9 variant is a sweet spot for many gamers. You get plenty of space for dozens of titles without stepping up to the higher-priced X10 line, making it a fantastic value proposition for extensive game libraries.
– Key Features:
– High-speed performance up to 1050MB/s
– IP55 water and dust resistance
– Drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters)
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– High-Capacity 4TB storage
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Substantial 4TB capacity for extensive game collections
– Very good speeds, significantly faster than HDDs
– Robust and durable for on-the-go gaming
– Great balance of storage, speed, and affordability
– Cons:
– Not as fast as the X10 series for those seeking peak performance
– Still a significant investment for a portable drive
– User Impressions: Gamers appreciate the X9 4TB for offering ample space at speeds that truly enhance their gaming. Its sturdy build also gives users peace of mind when traveling with their digital game archives.
See it on Amazon here
6. Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2…
If speed is your absolute top priority and you don’t need massive storage (or you just want your most played games on the fastest drive), the Crucial X10 1TB is a phenomenal choice. Delivering an incredible 2,100MB/s, this drive ensures the quickest possible load times and smooth performance for your games, making it one of the Crucial best SSD external hard drive for gaming when raw speed is paramount.
– Key Features:
– Ultra-fast speeds up to 2,100MB/s read
– IP65 dust and water resistance
– Drop resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 metres)
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– Compact 1TB storage capacity
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Blazing fast speeds are ideal for competitive gaming and demanding titles
– Excellent durability with enhanced IP65 rating
– Perfect for storing your absolute favorite games for quick access
– Compact and highly portable for gaming on the go
– Cons:
– 1TB capacity can be limiting for a large game library
– Full speed requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port, which isn’t universally available
– User Impressions: Users looking for maximum performance are consistently impressed with the X10 1TB. They highlight its ability to drastically cut load times and its robust build as key advantages, even with the smaller capacity.
See it on Amazon here
7. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read…
The Crucial X9 Pro 4TB elevates the X9 series with a professional-grade touch, offering not just high read speeds but also excellent write speeds (1050MB/s both ways). While listed for creators, its consistent performance, added security features like password protection, and 4TB capacity make it a powerful contender for serious gamers who also value data security and reliability.
– Key Features:
– High-speed performance: 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds
– IP55 water and dust resistance
– Drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters)
– Lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– High-capacity 4TB storage
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Balanced high read and write speeds ideal for gaming and large file transfers
– Enhanced security features for peace of mind
– Robust, travel-ready design with useful additions like a lanyard loop
– Ample 4TB storage for a comprehensive game library
– Cons:
– Speeds aren’t as high as the X10 Pro series
– Professional features might be overkill for some purely gaming-focused users
– User Impressions: Users value the X9 Pro for its consistent performance and added features like password protection. It’s seen as a reliable workhorse that handles both gaming and professional tasks with ease.
See it on Amazon here
8. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read,…
The Crucial X10 Pro 2TB is designed for the most demanding users, offering a significant leap in performance with 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds. For gamers, this means virtually no waiting. The “Pro” designation also brings enhanced security and features, making it a top-tier choice for those who want the absolute best speed for their critical game files and seamless gameplay.
– Key Features:
– Ultra-fast speeds: 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds
– IP55 water and dust resistance
– Drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters)
– Lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– Massive 2TB storage capacity
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Unmatched read/write speeds for incredibly fast game loading and transfers
– Professional-grade durability and security features
– Perfect for competitive gaming and 4K/8K content storage (if also a creator)
– Substantial 2TB capacity for core game installations
– Cons:
– Premium price point
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port to achieve maximum speeds
– User Impressions: Professionals and serious gamers praise the X10 Pro 2TB for its mind-blowing speed and robust feature set. The added security and consistent high performance are major selling points.
See it on Amazon here
9. Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read,…
Combining the peak performance of the X10 Pro series with a massive 4TB capacity, this is arguably the ultimate Crucial best SSD external hard drive for gaming for those who demand uncompromising speed and vast storage. If you want to future-proof your gaming setup, eliminate all loading bottlenecks, and carry an entire universe of games with you, look no further.
– Key Features:
– Ultra-fast speeds: 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds
– IP55 water and dust resistance
– Drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters)
– Lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection
– Broad compatibility: Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, Xbox (via USB-C and USB-A)
– Massive 4TB storage capacity
– Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image
– Pros:
– Best-in-class speeds combined with a huge 4TB capacity
– Professional-grade durability and security for critical game data
– Ideal for competitive gamers, streamers, and those with enormous game libraries
– Future-proof performance for years to come
– Cons:
– Highest price point among Crucial options
– Requires a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port for full speed utilization
– User Impressions: This drive is often cited as the pinnacle for high-performance external storage. Users highlight its ability to handle any task, from intense gaming to 4K video editing, with effortless speed and reliability.
See it on Amazon here
10. SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD, 2TB External Solid State Drive,…
While we’ve focused heavily on Crucial, it’s impossible to talk about the best external SSDs without mentioning the Samsung T7. This 2TB drive is a classic for a reason: it’s incredibly compact, offers very respectable speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, and boasts a durable, shock-resistant design. It’s an excellent alternative for gamers looking for a proven, reliable performer outside the Crucial ecosystem.
– Key Features:
– Fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s
– Compact design with 2TB capacity
– Broad compatibility with PCs, mobile phones, cameras (including iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K at 60fps video)
– Shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet
– Solid aluminum unibody construction
– World’s #1 Flash Memory Brand (Samsung’s in-house components)
– Pros:
– Established brand with a strong reputation for reliability
– Excellent balance of speed, portability, and durability
– Wide-ranging compatibility, including modern smartphone video recording
– Solid aluminum casing feels premium and robust
– Cons:
– Speeds are lower than the Crucial X10 series
– No IP water/dust resistance rating (though still very durable)
– User Impressions: The Samsung T7 consistently receives rave reviews for its compact size, robust performance, and reliability. Users appreciate its ease of use and trust in the Samsung brand for their valuable data and game saves.
See it on Amazon here
Conclusion
There you have it – a comprehensive look at the Crucial best SSD external hard drive for gaming options, along with a strong contender from Samsung. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for an affordable speed boost, or a hardcore enthusiast who demands vast storage and lightning-fast load times, there’s a drive on this list for you.
Remember, investing in a high-quality external SSD isn’t just about more storage; it’s about unlocking a smoother, faster, and more enjoyable gaming experience. Say goodbye to lag and hello to seamless adventures! Happy gaming!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why should I choose an external SSD over an HDD for gaming?
A1: External SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds, which translates directly into quicker game loading times, faster installations, and smoother gameplay. They’re also more durable due to the lack of moving parts, making them better for portability.
Q2: What speed should I look for in a gaming external SSD?
A2: For a noticeable improvement, aim for SSDs with at least 1000MB/s read speeds (like the Crucial X9 or Samsung T7). For the absolute best performance, especially for PC gaming or next-gen console games, look for drives offering 2000MB/s or more (like the Crucial X10 or X10 Pro series), ensuring your PC or console has a compatible USB 3.2 Gen2x2 port to utilize these speeds fully.
Q3: How much storage do I need for gaming?
A3: This depends on how many games you play and their file sizes. Modern AAA games can easily be 50-150GB each.
– 1TB: Good for a small selection of games or as an affordable starter.
– 2TB: A solid all-around choice for most gamers.
– 4TB: Recommended for avid gamers with a large library or those who also store other media.
– 8TB: Ideal for hardcore collectors, streamers, or professionals who need massive archives.
Q4: Is an external SSD compatible with my PS5/Xbox Series X|S?
A4: Yes! Most external SSDs are compatible with PS5, PS4, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. On PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, you can typically store next-gen games on an external SSD but will need to transfer them to the internal drive to play. Older generation games (PS4, Xbox One) can usually be played directly from the external SSD. Always check the console’s official guidelines for specific requirements.
Q5: What’s the main difference between the Crucial X9 and X10 series?
A5: The primary difference is speed and durability. The Crucial X9 series offers speeds up to 1050MB/s and IP55 water/dust resistance. The Crucial X10 series (and X10 Pro) boasts speeds up to 2100MB/s (double the X9) and enhanced IP65 water/dust resistance, making it faster and more rugged. The ‘Pro’ versions (X9 Pro, X10 Pro) also add consistent write speeds and features like SSD password protection.
Q6: Are these external SSDs durable enough for travel?
A6: Absolutely! Drives like the Crucial X9, X10, and Samsung T7 are specifically designed for portability and ruggedness. They feature solid-state construction (no moving parts), along with various levels of drop, dust, and water resistance, making them ideal for gamers who travel or simply need a robust solution.
Q7: How do I format an external SSD for my console or PC?
A7: For PCs, you can usually plug it in, and Windows/Mac will prompt you to format it or you can do it via Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac). For consoles like PS4/PS5 or Xbox, connect the drive, and the console will typically detect it and offer a guided formatting process to set it up as extended storage. Always back up any important data before formatting, as it will erase everything on the drive.