So, you’ve filled up your PlayStation 5’s internal storage, haven’t you? It happens to the best of us! With game sizes constantly growing, that built-in 825GB (or rather, 667GB usable) fills up faster than you can say “Spider-Man: Miles Morales.” The good news? You can easily expand your console’s storage, and adding a high-capacity M.2 NVMe SSD is the absolute best way to do it.
But not just any SSD will do. The PS5 has specific requirements, and you’ll want one that delivers blistering speeds, excellent thermal management, and, of course, a massive 4TB capacity to store a literal library of games. This guide dives deep into the best 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5 options, helping you pick the perfect upgrade to keep you gaming without limits.
Before we dive into the top picks, let’s quickly cover what to look for when choosing an SSD for your PS5:
- PCIe Gen 4: This is a must-have. The PS5 requires an SSD that supports PCIe Gen 4 x4.
- Speed: Sony recommends sequential read speeds of 5,500MB/s or faster. All our picks easily exceed this!
- Heatsink: Crucial for preventing thermal throttling and maintaining peak performance during long gaming sessions. Most top PS5 SSDs come with one pre-installed or include a compatible one.
- Capacity: We’re focusing on 4TB here – enough space for dozens, if not a hundred, of your favorite games.
Ready to expand your PS5’s universe? Let’s check out the best 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5 contenders!
SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB
If raw, unadulterated speed is what you crave, the Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a force to be reckoned with. This SSD isn’t just fast; it’s an absolute speed demon, engineered to deliver near max PCIe 4.0 performance. What really makes it shine for PS5 users is its integrated, ultra-slim heatsink, specifically designed to dissipate heat efficiently, ensuring your drive stays cool even during the most intense gaming marathons. It’s like giving your PS5 a high-performance engine upgrade.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
– Integrated, ultra-slim heatsink for superior thermal control.
– PCIe Gen 4.0 x4 NVMe 2.0 interface.
– Built with Samsung’s #1 flash memory technology.
– Designed for compatibility with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard.
Pros:
– Exceptional speeds that push the limits of PCIe Gen 4.
– High-quality Samsung NAND ensures reliability and longevity.
– Integrated heatsink fits perfectly in the PS5’s M.2 slot.
– Excellent for heavy computing, video editing, and competitive gaming.
Cons:
– Premium price point due to its top-tier performance.
– Might be overkill for casual users who don’t demand the absolute highest speeds.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the 990 PRO for its incredible speed improvements and seamless integration with the PS5. Many report significantly faster load times and game installations. The pre-attached heatsink is a major plus, eliminating any installation guesswork. While it’s an investment, gamers feel the performance boost is well worth it.
WD_BLACK 4TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PlayStation
When it comes to official endorsement, the WD_BLACK SN850P stands alone as the only officially licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles. This gives it an undeniable edge, offering complete peace of mind regarding compatibility and performance. Western Digital has optimized this drive specifically for the PS5, from its firmware to its custom-designed heatsink, ensuring an absolutely seamless and worry-free installation process. Plus, the included 14-day PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe trial is a sweet bonus!
Key Features:
– Officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles.
– Optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5 M.2 slot.
– Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for rapid loading.
– Allows direct gameplay from the drive, no transfers needed.
– Includes a 14-day PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe trial.
Pros:
– Guaranteed compatibility and performance with PS5 due to official licensing.
– Hassle-free installation with a perfectly sized, optimized heatsink.
– Blazing-fast speeds significantly reduce load times.
– Ample 4TB storage can hold up to 100 games (based on average game size).
Cons:
– The “official” branding often comes with a slightly higher price tag.
– Some users might already have PlayStation Plus, making the trial redundant.
User Impressions:
Owners love the “set it and forget it” nature of the WD_BLACK SN850P. The official licensing provides immense confidence, and the ease of installation is frequently highlighted. Gamers report zero issues with performance or overheating, even during extended play sessions, confirming its reliability as a dedicated PS5 expansion.
fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD
The fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD offers a compelling mix of high performance and value, specifically targeting hardcore gamers. This PCIe Gen 4 drive boasts impressive read and write speeds that easily meet and exceed PS5 requirements, ensuring quick loading times and smooth gameplay. What’s clever about this drive is its thermal solution – not a bulky heatsink, but a specially designed sticker with graphite and aluminum foil layers to help with heat dissipation. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a reliable, fast 4TB SSD without breaking the bank, backed by a solid 5-year service guarantee.
Key Features:
– PCIe Gen 4 x4 controller with NVMe 2.0 support.
– Sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s.
– Optimized for gaming, compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage.
– Efficient thermal control via a multi-layer composite sticker.
– Built with high-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
– Comes with a 5-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support.
Pros:
– Excellent price-to-performance ratio for a 4TB Gen 4 SSD.
– High speeds ideal for competitive gaming and demanding applications.
– Innovative thermal sticker design helps manage heat effectively.
– Strong 5-year warranty and technical support provide peace of mind.
Cons:
– The sticker-based thermal solution might not be as robust as a dedicated metal heatsink for extreme, sustained loads (though generally sufficient for PS5).
– Less brand recognition compared to Samsung or WD for some users.
User Impressions:
Many users are pleasantly surprised by the performance of the fanxiang SSD, noting its speedy load times and smooth operation on their PS5 consoles. The competitive pricing is a big draw, making it an attractive alternative to more expensive brands. Users appreciate the included warranty and responsive customer support.
Ediloca 4TB SSD NVMe M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 x4 Internal SSD
The Ediloca 4TB NVMe SSD is designed for those who demand uncompromising performance whether for gaming on their PS5 or intense PC workloads. Delivering blazing PCIe 4.0 speeds, this drive ensures instant game loading and fluid handling of large files. Its robust compatibility, from PS5 to desktops and laptops, makes it a versatile choice. The Ediloca also incorporates intelligent thermal management with a new material heat dissipation patch, complementing its high-quality 3D TLC NAND, to maintain stability and speed even under heavy use. It even comes with an installation screwdriver and screw – a thoughtful touch!
Key Features:
– Blazing PCIe 4.0 sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s.
– Officially validated for PS5 storage expansion.
– Universal M.2 2280 form factor for broad compatibility.
– Intelligent thermal management with a composite design and heat dissipation patch.
– High reliability with 8000TBW endurance and 5-year warranty.
– Includes installation screwdriver, mounting screw, and multilingual guide.
Pros:
– Top-tier PCIe Gen 4 speeds perfect for gaming and content creation.
– Strong compatibility across various platforms, including PS5.
– Excellent endurance and reliability backed by a long warranty.
– Thoughtful inclusion of installation tools.
– Effective thermal control ensures stable performance.
Cons:
– Similar to fanxiang, it relies on a passive thermal patch rather than a full metal heatsink (though often adequate).
– A newer brand in the SSD market, which might deter some who prefer established names.
User Impressions:
Customers highlight the Ediloca’s impressive speed and ease of installation, especially for PS5. The inclusion of tools is a frequently appreciated detail. Gamers report smooth performance with no noticeable lag or stutter, even when running demanding titles directly from the drive. Its reliability and competitive performance for the price point make it a solid pick.
Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB
While sharing the “990” moniker with its “PRO” sibling, the Samsung 990 EVO Plus 4TB carves its own niche by offering incredible read/write speeds combined with exceptional thermal efficiency. This drive is a powerhouse for large file transfers and demanding tasks, leveraging the latest NAND memory. What sets the EVO Plus apart is its focus on optimized performance and efficiency, thanks to a nickel-coated controller. It’s compatible with both PCIe 4.0 x4 and even PCIe 5.0 x2, making it a forward-looking choice for those who might also use it in a future PC build, while still delivering superb performance for your PS5. Samsung’s Magician Software keeps it performing like new with updates and health monitoring.
Key Features:
– Groundbreaking sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.
– Enhanced large-file performance with Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0.
– Exceptional thermal control through an efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller.
– Optimized for PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility.
– Samsung Magician Software for continuous performance updates and monitoring.
Pros:
– Very high speeds suitable for even the most demanding PS5 games.
– Excellent thermal efficiency helps prevent overheating and saves battery life (for laptops).
– Forward-compatible with PCIe 5.0 systems, adding value for PC users.
– Reliable performance backed by Samsung’s reputation and software support.
Cons:
– Does not include a dedicated heatsink, so you’ll need to purchase one separately for PS5 use.
– Performance, while excellent, is slightly below the 990 PRO in raw numbers.
User Impressions:
Users are highly satisfied with the 990 EVO Plus’s performance, noting rapid boot times and quick application loading. For PS5, those who added a compatible heatsink report flawless operation and significant reductions in game load times. The Samsung Magician software is a popular feature for keeping the drive optimized.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 5’s storage with a best 4TB M.2 SSD for PS5 is one of the smartest investments you can make as a gamer. Not only do you get a massive amount of extra space, but you also ensure that your games load quickly and run smoothly.
Whether you prioritize the official licensing of the WD_BLACK SN850P, the pure speed of the Samsung 990 PRO, the value and features of the fanxiang, the versatile performance of the Ediloca, or the future-proofing capabilities of the Samsung 990 EVO Plus (with an added heatsink), there’s a fantastic 4TB option out there for your PS5.
No more deleting games to make space! Grab one of these top-tier SSDs and truly unleash your PS5’s full gaming potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5, and what is 4TB good for?
A1: The PS5’s internal storage is limited. An M.2 SSD allows you to significantly expand this storage, letting you download and install many more games without constantly deleting and redownloading. A 4TB SSD is a massive upgrade, capable of holding dozens of AAA titles, ensuring you’ll rarely, if ever, run out of space for your game library.
Q2: Do I really need a heatsink for my PS5 SSD?
A2: Yes, absolutely! Sony highly recommends using an M.2 SSD with a heatsink. During intense gaming sessions, SSDs can generate a lot of heat. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, preventing the drive from overheating and “throttling” its performance, which could lead to slower load times or even game crashes. All our recommended SSDs either come with one or are designed to be paired with one.
Q3: Can I use any M.2 SSD with my PS5?
A3: No. The PS5 has specific requirements. You need a PCIe Gen 4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster. It must also be a 22mm wide form factor (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110). Physical size constraints within the PS5’s expansion slot also mean you need an SSD that fits with its heatsink. Sticking to PS5-compatible drives is crucial.
Q4: Is it difficult to install an M.2 SSD in the PS5?
A4: Not at all! Sony designed the PS5 to make SSD installation relatively straightforward. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver. The process involves removing a few covers and securing the SSD in its dedicated slot. Sony provides clear instructions online, and there are many video tutorials available that walk you through it step-by-step. It typically takes less than 10-15 minutes.
Q5: Will installing a new SSD improve my PS5’s game performance or loading times?
A5: Yes, significantly! While the PS5’s internal SSD is already incredibly fast, a compatible M.2 SSD like the ones listed here will offer similar, if not identical, loading times for games installed on it. This means you won’t experience any performance degradation when playing games from the expansion drive, and you’ll still enjoy lightning-fast loading screens compared to older console generations.
Q6: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen 4 and PCIe Gen 5? Does it matter for PS5?
A6: PCIe Gen 4 is the current standard for the PS5’s M.2 expansion slot. It offers incredibly fast speeds (up to around 7,500 MB/s). PCIe Gen 5 is the next generation, offering double the theoretical bandwidth of Gen 4. While some newer SSDs (like the Samsung 990 EVO Plus) might be compatible with Gen 5, the PS5 itself only supports Gen 4 speeds. So, a Gen 5 compatible drive will still operate at Gen 4 speeds when installed in a PS5. For PS5, Gen 4 is what you need.
Q7: Can I transfer my existing PS5 games to the new 4TB M.2 SSD?
A7: Yes, absolutely! Once your new M.2 SSD is installed and formatted by the PS5, you can easily move games and applications between your console’s internal storage and the new expanded storage. You can also set the new SSD as your default installation location for new games.