Running out of storage on your PlayStation 5? You’re not alone! With massive game sizes constantly growing, the PS5’s internal 825GB SSD (only about 667GB usable) fills up incredibly fast. Deleting games just to make room for new ones can be a real pain. But what if you could expand your console’s storage by a whopping 4TB, giving you space for dozens, even hundreds, of new titles without sacrificing a single one of your favorites?
That’s where a high-quality 4TB NVMe SSD comes into play. Not only do these drives offer immense storage, but they also match or exceed the PS5’s demanding speed requirements, ensuring lightning-fast load times and seamless gameplay. This guide dives deep into the best 4tb ssd for PS5 options currently available, helping you pick the perfect upgrade for your gaming setup. Ready to find the best 4TB SSD for PS5 and say goodbye to storage woes? Let’s jump in!
Why You Need a 4TB SSD for Your PS5
Modern games are storage hogs. Call of Duty, Cyberpunk 2077, and even exclusives like Spider-Man 2 can easily gobble up 100GB or more each. A 4TB SSD gives you an incredible amount of breathing room, allowing you to:
- Install More Games: Store your entire digital library without compromises.
- Future-Proof Your Console: Be ready for upcoming titles and even larger game sizes.
- Enjoy Faster Load Times: Experience near-instantaneous game loading, often quicker than the console’s built-in drive.
- Play Directly from the Drive: Unlike external HDDs, games installed on an internal M.2 SSD can be played directly.
For PS5 compatibility, it’s crucial that an SSD meets specific criteria: it must be a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD, have a read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s (though faster is always better!), and – critically – include a heatsink for optimal thermal management.
Our Top 10 Best 4TB SSD for PS5 Picks
Here’s our curated list of the top contenders for expanding your PS5’s storage:
1. SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2, Speeds Up…
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a powerhouse, offering blistering speeds and top-tier reliability that makes it a dream come true for PS5 gamers. This drive is designed to push the limits of PCIe 4.0, ensuring your games load at lightning speed and performance stays consistent even during intense sessions, thanks to its integrated, ultra-slim heatsink. It’s truly built with demanding users and the PlayStation 5 in mind.
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Key Features:
- Blazing sequential read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- Integrated heatsink for superior temperature control and stable performance.
- More than 55% improvement in random performance over the 980 PRO.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops/laptops.
- Backed by Samsung, the world’s #1 Flash Memory Brand.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for quick loading and smooth gaming.
- Integrated heatsink is perfectly sized for PS5 slot.
- Renowned Samsung reliability and performance.
- Massive 4TB capacity for extensive game libraries.
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Cons:
- Premium price point reflects its top-tier performance.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 990 PRO for its mind-blowing speed and the peace of mind offered by its effective integrated heatsink. Many report a noticeable improvement in load times over the PS5’s internal drive, making it a fan-favorite for serious gamers.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed…
When it comes to official endorsement, the WD_BLACK SN850P takes the crown as the ONLY officially licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles. This means you can install it with absolute confidence, knowing it’s been rigorously tested and approved by Sony themselves. Beyond the official stamp, it delivers phenomenal PCIe Gen 4 performance and comes with an optimized heatsink tailored specifically for the PS5’s M.2 slot.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles, ensuring guaranteed compatibility.
- Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for seamless gameplay and short load times.
- Optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5 console.
- Allows direct play from the drive, eliminating game transfers.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe (terms apply).
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Pros:
- Guaranteed compatibility with PS5 due to official licensing.
- High-speed performance meets and exceeds PS5 requirements.
- Perfectly fitted, optimized heatsink for easy installation.
- Massive 4TB storage, enough for up to 100 PS5 games.
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Cons:
- The “official license” might add a slight premium to the price.
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User Impressions: Owners absolutely love the plug-and-play simplicity and the assurance that comes with an officially licensed product. The speed and dedicated heatsink are frequently highlighted as major positives, making it a hassle-free upgrade for their PS5.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD for…
The fanxiang S880E offers impressive PCIe Gen 4 x4 performance at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for hardcore gamers looking to expand their PS5 storage. Designed to keep up with demanding loads, it utilizes NVMe 2.0 technology and features effective thermal control with a unique graphite and aluminum foil layer, ensuring consistent speeds even during intense gaming sessions.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller with NVMe 2.0 technology.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s.
- Designed for gaming, compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage.
- Efficient thermal control via graphite coated copper foil and aluminum foil layer.
- Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory for high transfer speeds.
- 5-year service and 20+ years manufacturing experience from Fanxiang.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for gaming and professional workloads.
- Cost-effective solution for 4TB capacity.
- Good thermal management design helps maintain performance.
- Strong manufacturer support with a 5-year warranty.
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Cons:
- Thermal solution is integrated layers, not a bulky heatsink (though often sufficient for PS5).
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User Impressions: Users are generally impressed by the S880E’s performance-to-price ratio. They appreciate its fast speeds for gaming and find its thermal management adequate, making it a reliable choice for budget-conscious gamers who still demand high performance.
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4. Fikwot FX991 M.2 SSD 4TB NVMe SSD M2 2280 PCIe…
The Fikwot FX991 stands out with its lightning-fast performance and intelligent thermal management, making it an excellent choice for PS5 users. It boasts top-tier read/write speeds that will significantly cut down on load times, while its auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and high-conductivity graphite heatsink work in tandem to keep the drive cool and performing optimally, even under heavy loads.
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Key Features:
- NVMe protocol and PCIe Gen 4×4 specifications for speeds up to 7300/6200 MB/s.
- Auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and power efficiency management.
- Equipped with a high-conductivity graphite heatsink.
- HMB and SLC Cache for improved performance in multitasking and game loading.
- Supports TRIM, S.M.A.R.T, and AES-256 encryption.
- Excellent compatibility with laptops, desktops, and PS5.
- 5-year limited service or 2400TBW endurance.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds for rapid data transfer and game loading.
- Intelligent thermal management combined with a heatsink for sustained performance.
- HMB and SLC cache enhance overall responsiveness.
- Broad compatibility, including robust PS5 support.
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Cons:
- Fikwot might be a newer brand to some users compared to established giants.
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User Impressions: Users praise the FX991 for its impressive speed and the effectiveness of its thermal solutions, reporting stable performance even during extended gaming sessions. Its broad compatibility is also a plus for those with multiple devices.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. WD_BLACK 4TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming Solid State Drive…
The WD_BLACK SN850X is built for serious gamers, offering extreme performance for both PCs and PS5 consoles (ensure you get the heatsink version for PS5!). With insane speeds and capacities up to 8TB (though we’re focusing on the 4TB here), it ensures you’ll never have to delete games again. This drive is packed with future-forward features like Game Mode 2.0 (for PC) and Adaptive Thermal Management to keep you in the action.
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Key Features:
- Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for top-tier performance.
- Built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND for robust capacity.
- Optional heatsink version available for all capacities (essential for PS5).
- WD_BLACK Dashboard for monitoring drive health and customizing RGB (heatsink versions).
- Features Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed perfect for demanding games and applications.
- Reliable Western Digital brand quality.
- High endurance and advanced thermal features for sustained performance.
- Ample 4TB capacity to hold a vast game library.
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Cons:
- Must ensure purchase of the heatsink-equipped model for PS5 compatibility.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently recommend the SN850X for its raw speed and reliability. They find it transforms their gaming experience with dramatically reduced load times, and those with the heatsink version appreciate its ability to maintain peak performance even under heavy load.
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6. Ediloca 4TB SSD NVMe M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 x4 Internal…
The Ediloca 4TB SSD offers next-gen PCIe 4.0 speeds, making it an excellent upgrade for PS5 and PC users alike. It boasts impressive read/write capabilities, allowing for instant game loading and fluid 4K video editing. With intelligent thermal management and rigorous testing, Ediloca promises superior reliability and stability, backed by a solid 5-year warranty and dedicated US-based technical support.
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Key Features:
- Blazing PCIe 4.0 sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s.
- Officially validated for PS5 storage expansion with sustained performance.
- Intelligent thermal management with a new material heat dissipation patch.
- Utilizes high-quality 3D TLC NAND flash memory and innovative controller.
- Rigorous testing with 8000TBW endurance and 5-year warranty.
- Universal M.2 2280 form factor for plug-and-play installation.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for gaming, design, and power users.
- Validated compatibility with PS5.
- Reliable thermal control for consistent performance.
- Strong endurance and a 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
- Includes installation tools in the box.
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Cons:
- Thermal solution is a patch, not a full aluminum heatsink (though often effective).
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User Impressions: Users value the Ediloca SSD for its dependable performance and straightforward installation. They frequently mention the noticeable speed boost for games and applications, and appreciate the inclusion of installation tools and solid customer support.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
7. MOVE SPEED HB7450 4TB Internal Solid State Drive for PS5…
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 is a high-speed beast designed to significantly enhance your gaming experience on PS5 and PC. Leveraging cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, it offers read/write speeds that drastically reduce load times. What’s more, it comes with a built-in graphene composite heatsink and an additional uninstalled heatsink in the package, giving you flexible thermal management options to maintain peak performance.
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Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 interface with read/write speeds up to 7450/6500 MB/s.
- Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, and PC.
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink for cooling (reduces chip temp by 10 degrees).
- Includes an additional (uninstalled) heatsink, screws, and screwdriver.
- Utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
- Rigorous testing for stability and long service life.
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Pros:
- Among the fastest drives on this list for ultimate performance.
- Comes with multiple heatsink options (built-in graphene + external included).
- Generous 4TB capacity for up to 100 PS5 games.
- Easy installation with included tools.
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Cons:
- The main heatsink is uninstalled, requiring a separate step for users.
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User Impressions: Users are thrilled with the MOVE SPEED HB7450’s raw speed, reporting incredibly fast game loading. The inclusion of an extra heatsink and tools is a pleasant surprise for many, though some note the extra installation step. Overall, it’s seen as a powerful and comprehensive package.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
8. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 4TB, PCIe Gen 4×4 |…
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus aims for groundbreaking speeds and efficient performance for tasks ranging from huge file transfers to gaming. With its latest NAND memory and enhanced Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0, it’s designed for rapid data handling. While it boasts excellent thermal control via an efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller, it’s crucial to note that this model does not come with an integrated heatsink, which is a requirement for PS5 installation. Users would need to purchase and install a separate M.2 heatsink.
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Key Features:
- Groundbreaking sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.
- Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0 for enhanced large-file performance.
- Efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller for exceptional thermal control and lower power usage.
- Compatible with PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 for optimized performance.
- Magician Software for firmware updates and drive health monitoring.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for demanding applications and games.
- High efficiency and low power consumption.
- Reliable Samsung brand and software support.
- Large 4TB capacity.
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Cons:
- Does NOT come with an integrated heatsink; a separate heatsink purchase and installation is REQUIRED for PS5.
- May require more technical knowledge for PS5 setup due to the heatsink requirement.
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User Impressions: Users highly rate the 990 EVO Plus for its impressive speed and energy efficiency, especially for PC use. For PS5 users, while the performance is there, the necessity to buy and install a separate heatsink is a consistent point of feedback, making it a less “plug-and-play” option compared to others on this list.
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9. Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 4TB M.2 NVMe PCIe x4 Gen4…
The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX is purpose-built for the PS5, exceeding all of Sony’s M.2 performance requirements right out of the box. This drive is designed for extreme Gen4 storage performance, delivering super-fast sequential read and write speeds. What truly makes it PS5-ready is its pre-installed, low-profile aluminum heatspreader, ensuring optimal thermal management and sustained high performance during your most intense gaming marathons.
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Key Features:
- Extreme Gen4 storage performance with up to 7,100MB/sec read and 6,800MB/sec write speeds.
- High-speed PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe 1.4 Interface.
- Exceeds all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements.
- Pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader for effective heat dissipation.
- Massive 4TB capacity to store vast game collections.
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Pros:
- Designed specifically for PS5, ensuring seamless compatibility and performance.
- Pre-installed heatsink makes installation a breeze.
- Exceptional speeds for rapid game loading.
- Reliable Corsair brand quality.
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Cons:
- Might be a bit pricier than some lesser-known brands.
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User Impressions: PS5 owners rave about the MP600 PRO LPX’s perfect fit and fantastic performance. The pre-installed heatsink is a major highlight, simplifying the installation process and giving users confidence in its thermal stability. It’s often cited as a top-tier “install and forget” solution.
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10. fanxiang S770 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD for PS5 – with…
The fanxiang S770 offers a compelling package for PS5 and PC users seeking extensive storage and high-speed performance. With impressive read/write speeds, it ensures efficient loading and seamless data transfer across platforms. Its unique heatsink design prioritizes cool and quiet operation, maintaining excellent performance even during prolonged, intensive usage. This makes it a reliable choice for expanding your game console’s memory and supporting diverse applications.
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Key Features:
- Speeds up to 7300MB/s (Windows) and 6300MB/s (PS5) for efficient loading.
- Perfectly compatible with PS5 for storage expansion.
- Unique heatsink design for cool and quiet operation, even under intensive usage.
- Seamless connectivity to various platforms, including PC.
- 5-year quality assurance and professional after-sales support.
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Pros:
- High performance with excellent speeds for both PC and PS5.
- Effective integrated heatsink design ensures stable temperatures.
- Generous 4TB capacity is ideal for large game libraries.
- Strong warranty and customer support.
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Cons:
- PS5 speed (6300MB/s) is slightly lower than some top-tier drives on this list, though still well above the minimum requirement.
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User Impressions: Users find the fanxiang S770 to be a solid performer, especially appreciating its effective cooling and quiet operation. Its good value for a 4TB drive and reliable performance make it a popular choice for gamers looking for a dependable storage upgrade.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Choosing the Best 4TB SSD for Your PS5: What to Look For
When you’re looking for the best 4tb ssd for PS5, keep these critical factors in mind:
- Speed (PCIe Gen4 x4): The PS5 requires a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. All drives on our list comfortably exceed this, offering speeds upwards of 7,000 MB/s for the best performance.
- Heatsink: This is non-negotiable for PS5. The console’s M.2 slot operates at high temperatures, and a heatsink is vital to prevent thermal throttling and maintain consistent performance. Ensure the SSD either has an integrated heatsink (like the Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink or Corsair MP600 PRO LPX) or comes bundled with one (like the MOVE SPEED HB7450). If not, you must buy and install one separately (as with the Samsung 990 EVO Plus).
- Form Factor: The PS5 requires an M.2 2280 NVMe SSD. All the drives on this list adhere to this standard.
- Capacity: You’re looking for 4TB, which provides an enormous amount of space for modern games.
- Brand Reputation & Warranty: Opting for reputable brands like Samsung, WD_BLACK, or Corsair often means better quality control and reliable customer support, along with solid warranties (most here offer 5 years).
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 5’s storage with a 4TB NVMe SSD is one of the best investments you can make for your gaming experience. It eliminates the frustration of constant game juggling, ensures lightning-fast load times, and future-proofs your console for years to come.
Finding the best 4tb ssd for PS5 is a fantastic way to future-proof your gaming, giving you the freedom to download and enjoy every title without worrying about space. Whether you prioritize official licensing, raw speed, or value, there’s a perfect 4TB SSD on this list waiting to transform your PS5. Choose wisely, install confidently, and dive into your expanded game library!
FAQ Section
Q1: How do I install a 4TB SSD in my PS5?
A1: Installing an SSD in your PS5 is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. First, power off and unplug your PS5. Carefully remove the bottom cover of the console to access the M.2 expansion slot. Insert the SSD into the slot, secure it with the provided screw (either with the SSD or PS5), replace the cover, and power on your console. The PS5 will guide you through formatting the new drive.
Q2: Is a heatsink really necessary for a PS5 SSD?
A2: Yes, a heatsink is absolutely essential. The PS5’s internal M.2 slot can get very hot during prolonged gaming sessions. Without a heatsink, the SSD could overheat, leading to thermal throttling (reduced performance) or even long-term damage. All recommended SSDs for PS5 either come with an integrated heatsink or include one to be installed.
Q3: Can I play PS5 games directly from the external 4TB SSD?
A3: If you mean an internal M.2 NVMe SSD installed in the PS5’s expansion slot, then yes, absolutely! PS5 games run directly from these drives. However, if you’re referring to an external USB HDD/SSD, you can only store PS5 games on it, not play them directly. You would need to transfer PS5 games back to the console’s internal storage or an M.2 expansion drive to play them. PS4 games, however, can be played directly from an external USB drive.
Q4: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen3 and Gen4 SSDs for PS5?
A4: PCIe Gen3 (or PCIe 3.0) SSDs are older and slower, typically offering sequential read speeds up to around 3,500 MB/s. PCIe Gen4 (or PCIe 4.0) SSDs are much faster, with speeds often exceeding 7,000 MB/s. The PS5 explicitly requires a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD with a minimum read speed of 5,500 MB/s to ensure optimal game performance and compatibility.
Q5: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A5: No, installing a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD in the dedicated expansion slot of your PS5 will not void your warranty. Sony specifically designed the console with this upgrade option in mind. Just ensure you follow Sony’s guidelines and use a compatible drive with a heatsink.
Q6: How much storage do I really need for my PS5?
A6: The PS5 comes with 825GB, with about 667GB usable. If you play many large AAA titles, that fills up very quickly. A 1TB or 2TB SSD is a common upgrade, but a 4TB SSD truly future-proofs your console, allowing you to install dozens of massive games without worrying about space. For avid gamers with large digital libraries, 4TB is an excellent choice.
Q7: Can a slower SSD cause issues with PS5 games?
A7: Yes. If an SSD doesn’t meet the PS5’s minimum read speed requirement of 5,500 MB/s, it may not function correctly or could cause performance issues like longer load times, texture pop-in, or even glitches during gameplay. Always opt for a drive that meets or exceeds Sony’s recommended speeds.