Let’s face it, that internal storage on your PlayStation 5 fills up faster than you can say “next-gen graphics.” With massive game files, DLCs, and updates, you’re constantly juggling installations and deletions. If you’re looking to expand your digital library and enhance your gaming experience, investing in a high-speed NVMe M.2 SSD is the way to go. And when it comes to performance and reliability, Sabrent is a name that consistently comes up.
This guide dives deep into the Sabrent best 4tb m 2 ssd for ps5 options, alongside other top-tier, PS5-compatible drives that offer that sweet spot of expansive storage and lightning-fast speeds. We’ll help you pick the perfect storage upgrade to keep your games loading quickly and your adventures uninterrupted. Ready to say goodbye to storage anxiety? Let’s jump in!
Why a 4TB M.2 SSD for Your PS5?
The PlayStation 5 supports M.2 NVMe SSDs for internal storage expansion, and it’s a game-changer. These drives offer read speeds comparable to or even exceeding the console’s internal SSD, ensuring seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times. While 1TB or 2TB might suffice for some, a 4TB SSD provides truly massive space for a huge game library without constant management. You’ll be able to download dozens of AAA titles, plus all your indie favorites, and still have room to spare.
Our Top Picks: Sabrent and Compatible 4TB M.2 SSDs for PS5
Here’s a detailed look at some of the best M.2 SSDs that fit the bill, including top-notch Sabrent options and other strong contenders.
1. SABRENT Rocket 4 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
The Sabrent Rocket 4 offers impressive PCIe Gen4 performance, making it a stellar choice for anyone needing significant storage expansion without compromise. Its lean M.2 2280 design ensures broad compatibility, including your PS5, and it’s engineered for consistent speed even under heavy use, which is exactly what gamers demand.
– Key Features:
– Massive Gen4 Performance: Up to 7450MB/s read and 6400MB/s write speeds.
– Built for Speed and Stability: Up to 1000K/950K random IOPS with low-heat output.
– Broad Compatibility: Slim, single-sided M.2 2280 design works with desktops, laptops, and PS5.
– For Demanding Users: Ideal for gamers, media editors, and power users.
– Sabrent Reliability & Support: Premium hardware, OS compatibility, firmware updates, and tech assistance.
– Pros:
– Blazing fast Gen4 speeds suitable for PS5.
– Huge 4TB capacity for an extensive game library.
– Designed for consistent performance and stability.
– Wide compatibility, including PS5.
– Cons:
– Does not include a dedicated PS5 heatsink, which you’ll need to purchase separately.
– User Impressions: Users frequently praise its raw speed and reliability. Many mention its easy installation in various systems, though PS5 users note the need for an aftermarket heatsink to meet console requirements.
– See it on Amazon here
2. SABRENT Rocket 4 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
If 4TB feels a bit much or you’re working with a tighter budget, the Sabrent Rocket 4 in its 2TB variant still delivers exceptional PCIe Gen4 performance. It brings the same blistering speeds and robust stability as its larger sibling, making it a fantastic choice for a substantial PS5 storage upgrade without going all-out on capacity.
– Key Features:
– Next-Gen Gen4 Performance: Up to 7450MB/s read and 6400MB/s write speeds.
– High IOPS, Low Heat: Up to 1000K/950K random IOPS for sustained speed.
– Universal Compatibility: Compatible with desktops, laptops, and PS5; single-sided M.2 2280 design.
– Power for Pros and Gamers: Fast, reliable storage for intensive applications.
– Sabrent Quality and Support: Premium components, broad OS support, online registration for assistance.
– Pros:
– Excellent Gen4 speeds for smooth PS5 gaming.
– Ample 2TB capacity for a significant number of games.
– Stable performance under load.
– Broad compatibility.
– Cons:
– Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 installation.
– Not a 4TB drive, if that’s your primary target.
– User Impressions: Customers love the snappy performance and smooth operation. It’s often recommended for its value, offering high-end speed at a more accessible capacity.
– See it on Amazon here
3. SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a powerhouse, specifically designed to meet the demands of intense gaming and creative workloads while keeping its cool. Its integrated heatsink is PS5-ready, making it an incredibly convenient and high-performance option for expanding your console’s storage. It’s a premium choice from a brand known for flash memory excellence.
– Key Features:
– Blazing Speed, Cool Victory: Near max PCIe 4.0 performance with integrated heatsink for temperature control.
– Reach the Next Level: Up to 55% improvement in random performance over 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: 1TB to 4TB capacities, ideal for gaming, video editing, data analysis.
– Made w/ PS5 in Mind: Ultra-slim integrated heatsink, compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard.
– Pros:
– Phenomenal PCIe Gen4 speeds.
– Integrated, PS5-compatible heatsink makes installation a breeze.
– Massive 4TB capacity.
– Top-tier performance and reliability from a leading brand.
– Cons:
– Premium price point.
– User Impressions: Users rave about the ease of installation in their PS5 thanks to the built-in heatsink and the noticeable improvement in load times. The drive’s ability to maintain performance under stress is also a frequently highlighted positive.
– See it on Amazon here
4. SABRENT 2TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (with heatsink)
This Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus variant is specifically engineered for the PS5, coming complete with a revolutionary heatsink solution. Sabrent didn’t just add a heatsink; they designed one that replaces the console’s native cover, utilizing the PS5’s own fan for superior cooling. This 2TB option is perfect if you want top-tier performance and bespoke cooling without needing 4TB of storage.
– Key Features:
– Designed and Compatible for the Console: Engineered to fit the PS5 SSD expansion slot perfectly.
– World’s Fastest SSD (exceeds PS5 requirements): Read/write speeds of 7100MB/s and 6600MB/s respectively.
– Revolutionary Cooling: High-quality CNC’d aluminum heatsink, replaces native console cover for better cooling.
– Upgrade Your Console: Utilizes the native fan, larger heatsink for maximum thermal dissipation.
– Industrial Quality: Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” for even pressure and efficient heat transfer.
– Pros:
– PS5-specific heatsink design for optimal cooling and easy installation.
– Exceeds PS5 speed requirements for blazing performance.
– Utilizes console’s native fan, enhancing cooling efficiency.
– Robust build quality.
– Cons:
– 2TB capacity might not be enough for some users aiming for a massive digital library.
– User Impressions: Gamers absolutely love the integrated heatsink solution, noting the simple installation and peace of mind regarding thermal management. The performance boost is widely appreciated.
– See it on Amazon here
5. SABRENT 4TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (with heatsink)
Here’s where the Sabrent best 4tb m 2 ssd for ps5 truly shines with an integrated, custom-designed heatsink. This 4TB Rocket 4 Plus delivers exceptional PCIe Gen4 speeds and comes with Sabrent’s innovative cooling solution, which replaces your PS5’s cover. It’s the ultimate combination of vast storage, incredible speed, and optimized thermal performance specifically for your PlayStation 5.
– Key Features:
– Designed and Compatible for the Console: Engineered to fit the PS5 SSD expansion slot perfectly.
– World’s Fastest SSD (exceeds PS5 requirements): Read/write speeds of 7100MB/s and 6600MB/s respectively.
– Revolutionary Cooling: High-quality CNC’d aluminum heatsink, replaces native console cover for better cooling.
– Upgrade Your Console: Utilizes the native fan, larger heatsink for maximum thermal dissipation.
– Industrial Quality: Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” for even pressure and efficient heat transfer.
– Pros:
– Massive 4TB capacity, ideal for huge game collections.
– Custom-designed PS5 heatsink for superior cooling.
– Exceeds PS5 speed requirements for uncompromised performance.
– Easy and clean installation.
– Cons:
– A premium investment, but justifiable for the features.
– User Impressions: This drive is a top contender for PS5 owners seeking maximum storage and performance. Users consistently praise its easy, secure fit and the peace of mind knowing the SSD is optimally cooled within their console.
– See it on Amazon here
6. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PS5
For absolute peace of mind, the WD_BLACK SN850P is officially licensed by PlayStation for your PS5 console. This 4TB M.2 SSD comes with an optimized heatsink, ensuring seamless compatibility and installation without any guesswork. It’s built for serious gamers who demand not only huge capacity but also the fastest load times and uninterrupted gameplay.
– Key Features:
– The ONLY Officially Licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5: Guaranteed compatibility.
– Massive Capacity: Store up to 100 games (4TB model).
– Optimized Heatsink: Brand-new design for easy, worry-free installation into the M.2 slot.
– Play Directly from the Drive: No need to transfer or delete games.
– Push PCIe Gen 4 Technology: Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for seamless gameplay.
– Bonus: 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe included.
– Pros:
– Officially licensed by PlayStation, ensuring perfect compatibility and performance.
– Generous 4TB capacity.
– Integrated, optimized heatsink for PS5.
– Extremely fast read speeds.
– Added bonus of PlayStation Plus trial.
– Cons:
– Might be at a higher price point due to official licensing.
– User Impressions: The “officially licensed” badge is a huge draw for PS5 owners, eliminating any compatibility concerns. Users report extremely fast load times and appreciate the robust, pre-attached heatsink.
– See it on Amazon here
7. SABRENT 4TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (Drive Only)
This variant of the Sabrent 4TB Rocket 4 Plus focuses on the raw power of the drive itself. It’s a high-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD offering advanced features like wear leveling, error correction, and robust power management. While it doesn’t come with Sabrent’s custom PS5 heatsink, it’s still a fantastic option if you prefer to use your own heatsink solution or already have one. This is truly the core of what makes a Sabrent best 4tb m 2 ssd for ps5 so desirable.
– Key Features:
– NVMe M.2 PCIe Gen4 x4 Interface: PCIe 4.0 and NVMe 1.3 Compliant.
– Power Management Support: For APST / ASPM / L1.2.
– Supports SMART and TRIM Commands: For optimal performance and drive health.
– Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code, Over-Provisioning: Ensures longevity and reliability.
– Free Sabrent Acronis True Image Software: For easy cloning, with optional sector size re-formatting utility.
– Pros:
– Top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance.
– Massive 4TB capacity.
– Excellent internal drive management features for longevity.
– Flexible for users who want to choose their own heatsink.
– Cons:
– Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 installation (not included with this specific listing).
– User Impressions: Tech-savvy users appreciate the underlying technology and the flexibility to pair it with their preferred cooling solution. The performance is consistently rated highly, making it a solid foundation for any high-capacity build.
– See it on Amazon here
8. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PS5
Another officially licensed option from WD_BLACK, this 2TB SN850P provides peace of mind and stellar performance for your PS5. It comes with the same optimized heatsink as its 4TB counterpart, guaranteeing a smooth fit and excellent thermal management. If you don’t need a full 4TB but still want the assurance of an officially endorsed product, this is a prime choice.
– Key Features:
– Officially Licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5: Easy installation with no compatibility concerns.
– Ample Storage: 2TB capacity for a large game library.
– Optimized Heatsink: Designed especially for the PS5 console for easy, worry-free installation.
– Play Directly from the Drive: Tested and approved storage for your PS5 console.
– Push PCIe Gen 4 Technology: Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for seamless gameplay.
– Bonus: 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe included.
– Pros:
– Official PlayStation licensing for guaranteed compatibility.
– Integrated, optimized heatsink.
– Fast PCIe Gen4 speeds for quick load times.
– Solid 2TB capacity for many gamers.
– Cons:
– Not a 4TB drive, if that’s your primary capacity goal.
– User Impressions: Users frequently highlight the ease of installation and the reliable, fast performance without any compatibility hiccups. The integrated heatsink is a significant plus.
– See it on Amazon here
9. SABRENT Rocket 4 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
For those just looking for a solid capacity boost without breaking the bank or going for maximum storage, the 1TB Sabrent Rocket 4 is an excellent entry point. It still offers the blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds crucial for PS5 games, wrapped in a power-efficient, single-sided design. It’s a reliable, high-performance upgrade that won’t overwhelm your budget or your console.
– Key Features:
– Blazing Gen4 Speed: Up to 7450MB/s read and 6100MB/s write speeds.
– High IOPS, Efficient Design: Up to 850K/800K random IOPS with low heat and power draw.
– Broad System Compatibility: Single-sided M.2 2280 form factor for desktops, laptops, and PS5.
– Made for Pros and Gamers: Fast, responsive storage for high-performance systems.
– Trusted Sabrent Support: Premium hardware, broad OS support, online registration for help.
– Pros:
– Excellent value for a Gen4 NVMe SSD.
– Very fast speeds, meeting PS5 requirements.
– Power-efficient and designed for stable, long-term performance.
– Ideal for those who need a significant but not massive storage upgrade.
– Cons:
– 1TB might still feel limited for avid gamers in the long run.
– Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use.
– User Impressions: Users appreciate the bang-for-buck performance this drive offers. It’s a popular choice for initial PS5 upgrades, with many noting its fast loading and robust build.
– See it on Amazon here
10. SABRENT Rocket 5 4TB Advanced Performance Internal M.2 PCIe Gen5
Pushing the envelope into the future, the Sabrent Rocket 5 is their fastest SSD ever, leveraging PCIe 5.0 bandwidth. While the PS5 is a PCIe Gen4 console, this 4TB drive is backward compatible and offers staggering speeds of up to 14 GB/s, making it incredibly future-proof and excellent for content creation and high-end applications. It’s a top-tier choice for those who want the absolute peak of what’s available, even if the PS5 can’t fully utilize its Gen5 potential yet.
– Key Features:
– Our Fastest SSD Ever: Natural successor to Rocket 4 Plus, reaching new performance heights.
– Never Get Left Behind: Transfers up to an astounding 14 GB/s with PCIe 5.0 bandwidth, DirectStorage-optimized.
– Business Or Pleasure: Improve workflow and productivity, optimally balanced for content creation, high-end applications.
– Stylishly Cool Design: Available with a custom heatsink or as a bare drive (own heatsink required).
– It’s Sabrent: Great for Windows, macOS, Linux, and more; excellent support.
– Pros:
– Cutting-edge PCIe Gen5 technology, extremely future-proof.
– Unparalleled speeds, even when backward compatible with Gen4.
– Massive 4TB capacity.
– Optimized for DirectStorage (for PC, but indicates high performance).
– Sabrent’s quality and support.
– Cons:
– PS5 won’t fully utilize its PCIe Gen5 speeds.
– Higher price point due to advanced technology.
– Heatsink might be a separate purchase depending on the bundle.
– User Impressions: Early adopters marvel at the raw speed and the feeling of having a drive that’s well ahead of current console capabilities. It’s seen as a powerful investment for the long haul, even for PS5 users.
– See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5?
A: The PS5’s internal storage is limited. An M.2 SSD allows you to significantly expand your game library, download more titles, and experience lightning-fast load times for PS5 games, directly from the expanded storage. It’s a must-have for serious gamers.
Q2: What are the PS5’s M.2 SSD requirements?
A: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. It must be a 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110 form factor, and require a heatsink to prevent thermal throttling.
Q3: Do I need a heatsink for a PS5 M.2 SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely! Sony explicitly states that a heatsink is required to ensure optimal performance and prevent the SSD from overheating, which can lead to performance degradation or damage. Many of the drives we’ve reviewed, especially the Sabrent best 4tb m 2 ssd for ps5 options, either include one or are designed to integrate with one effectively.
Q4: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A: The installation process is relatively straightforward. You’ll need a screwdriver, and after powering down and unplugging your PS5, you remove the side plate, unscrew the expansion slot cover, insert the M.2 SSD (with heatsink), secure it, and then replace the covers. The PS5 will then format the drive.
Q5: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external USB drive?
A: No, you can’t play PS5 games directly from an external USB HDD or SSD. External drives can only store PS5 games for archival purposes, requiring you to transfer them back to internal or M.2 SSD storage to play. PS4 games, however, can be played directly from an external USB drive.
Q6: Is 4TB overkill for PS5?
A: While 1TB or 2TB might be sufficient for casual gamers, 4TB is a fantastic investment for avid gamers who want to build a vast digital library. It eliminates the need to constantly delete and reinstall games, especially with game sizes increasing. It offers peace of mind and convenience, making it worth the investment for many.
Q7: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 SSDs for PS5?
A: PCIe Gen4 is the current standard required and fully supported by the PS5, offering speeds up to around 7,400 MB/s. PCIe Gen5 SSDs are newer, offering double the bandwidth (up to 14,000 MB/s). While a Gen5 SSD like the Sabrent Rocket 5 will work in a PS5 (as it’s backward compatible), the PS5’s hardware can only utilize Gen4 speeds. So, a Gen5 drive is faster than the PS5 can handle, but still an excellent, future-proof option.
Q8: Why is Sabrent a good choice for PS5 SSDs?
A: Sabrent is renowned for producing high-performance NVMe SSDs that often exceed PS5’s speed requirements. Many of their drives, particularly the Rocket 4 Plus line, offer custom-designed heatsinks optimized for the PS5, ensuring excellent thermal management and easy installation. They provide a great balance of speed, capacity, and PS5-centric features.
Conclusion
Expanding your PS5 storage with a high-quality M.2 SSD is one of the best upgrades you can make to your gaming setup. Whether you opt for a dedicated Sabrent best 4tb m 2 ssd for ps5 with a custom heatsink or a powerful, officially licensed drive from Samsung or WD_BLACK, you’re setting yourself up for countless hours of uninterrupted, fast-loading gameplay. Consider your budget, desired capacity, and whether you prefer an integrated or separate heatsink, and you’ll find the perfect drive to unleash your PS5’s full potential!