Is your PlayStation 4 feeling a bit sluggish lately? Are those agonizingly long loading screens taking you out of the action? If you’re tired of waiting and want to supercharge your gaming experience, then upgrading your PS4’s internal storage to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is one of the smartest moves you can make. And when it comes to reliable, high-performance storage, Lexar is a brand that often comes to mind.
In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep to find the Lexar best 2TB internal SSD for PS4 gamers, along with a couple of strong alternatives. We know 2TB offers that sweet spot of ample space for your game library without breaking the bank. While the PS4 natively supports 2.5-inch SATA III SSDs for internal upgrades, we’ll also touch upon some advanced Lexar NVMe drives and clarify their compatibility, ensuring you pick the perfect storage solution to unleash your console’s full potential.
Why Upgrade Your PS4 with an SSD?
Before we jump into the products, let’s quickly recap why an SSD upgrade is a game-changer for your PS4:
- Blazing Fast Load Times: This is the most noticeable improvement. Games will load significantly quicker, getting you into the action faster.
- Smoother Gameplay: While an SSD won’t directly improve frame rates, it can reduce texture pop-in and improve asset streaming in open-world games.
- More Storage for Games: A 2TB SSD gives you plenty of room for dozens of AAA titles, DLC, and updates, so you won’t have to constantly delete games.
- Enhanced Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resilient to drops and vibrations compared to traditional hard drives.
- Quieter Operation: Without spinning platters, an SSD runs silently, contributing to a quieter gaming environment.
Choosing the right SSD can genuinely transform your PlayStation 4 experience, making it feel snappier and more responsive. Now, let’s explore the top contenders!
Our Top Picks: The Best 2TB Internal SSDs for PS4
Here’s our curated list of 2TB internal SSDs, focusing on those best suited for your PS4, including excellent Lexar options and a couple of top-tier alternatives.
1. Lexar 2TB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
The Lexar NS100 is a fantastic entry-level choice for anyone looking to give their PS4 a significant speed boost without spending a fortune. As a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD, it’s a perfect fit for an internal PS4 upgrade, offering read speeds that are dramatically faster than the console’s stock hard drive. If you’re aiming for a reliable performance leap in your PlayStation 4, this drive certainly delivers on value and functionality.
Key Features
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
– Faster performance and more reliable than traditional hard drives
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– [2TB] 960TBW
– Three-year limited product support
Pros
– Excellent value for a 2TB capacity
– Significant speed improvement over traditional HDDs
– Standard 2.5-inch form factor for easy PS4 installation
– Good endurance rating (TBW) for long-term use
– Durable design with no moving parts
Cons
– Performance capped by SATA III interface (not a con for PS4, but good to note generally)
– Not the absolute fastest SSD available, but more than sufficient for PS4
User Impressions
Users consistently praise the NS100 for its noticeable speed improvements, especially in game load times and system responsiveness on their PS4s and PCs. Many highlight its affordability and ease of installation as major plusses, making it a popular choice for console upgrades.
See it on Amazon here
2. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2…
While this Lexar NM790 with a heatsink is an absolute beast for high-performance systems like a PlayStation 5 or a gaming PC, it’s important to note that it is not compatible with the PS4’s internal drive bay, which requires a 2.5-inch SATA drive. However, if you’re looking for a future-proof SSD for a PS5 upgrade or a lightning-fast PC build, this drive is exceptionally powerful, boasting incredible read and write speeds thanks to its PCIe Gen4 interface and an integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management.
Key Features
– [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW
– 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
– Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool for better performance and power efficiency
– Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for a smoother transfer speed and seamless performance
– Compatible with PlayStation 5
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros
– Phenomenal speeds for PS5 and high-end PC gaming
– Integrated heatsink for sustained performance
– Highly energy-efficient
– Excellent endurance rating (TBW)
– Long 5-year warranty
Cons
– Not compatible with PS4’s internal drive bay
– Overkill for PS4 external storage (if used with an enclosure)
User Impressions
Reviews frequently commend the NM790’s blistering speeds, significantly cutting down load times in demanding games on PS5 and PC. Users appreciate the factory-attached heatsink for hassle-free installation and consistent performance under heavy loads.
See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
Just like its heatsink-equipped sibling, this version of the Lexar NM790 is a powerhouse NVMe SSD perfect for the discerning gamer or professional. It delivers the same exceptional PCIe Gen4 speeds without the integrated heatsink, making it ideal for devices where space is tight or where the motherboard already provides adequate cooling. Again, to be absolutely clear, this drive is not for internal PS4 upgrades but shines brightly in a PS5, PC, or even certain laptops.
Key Features
– [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW
– 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
– Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for a smoother transfer speed and seamless performance
– Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
– Compatible with PlayStation 5
– Single-sided NVMe SSD is perfect for laptops
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros
– Blazing fast PCIe Gen4 performance
– Excellent for PS5 and high-performance laptops/PCs
– High endurance and a solid 5-year warranty
– Energy-efficient design
– Great for professionals and creators needing speed
Cons
– Not for internal PS4 upgrade
– Requires external cooling solution if used in demanding scenarios without a heatsink
User Impressions
Many users highlight the NM790’s incredible speed, noting vast improvements in application loading and file transfers. It’s a favorite for PS5 owners and PC builders seeking top-tier performance at a competitive price, especially appreciating its single-sided design for laptop compatibility.
See it on Amazon here
4. Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal…
The Lexar NM1090 PRO is a next-generation storage solution, pushing the boundaries with PCIe Gen5 technology. Offering mind-boggling speeds that are truly future-proof, this SSD is designed for the absolute pinnacle of gaming and professional computing, particularly with the latest AMD Ryzen and Intel i9 platforms. It features advanced cooling and caching to handle intense workloads. However, it’s crucial to understand that this cutting-edge drive is not suitable for internal PS4 upgrades due to both form factor (M.2 NVMe) and interface (PCIe Gen5) incompatibilities. This is firmly a drive for PS5 (if compatible with future PS5 revisions/updates supporting Gen5, or current Gen4 slot but not fully utilized) or high-end PC builds.
Key Features
– PCIe 5.0 technology delivers blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s and accelerates load times by 200% – great with AMD Ryzen and Intel i9
– A powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control for a smoother experience and more efficient performance
– A perfect internal SSD for AI PCs: reduces bottlenecks and accelerates AI model training, inferencing, and real-time data processing
– DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds to reduce wait times and improve system responsiveness
– Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads, minimize delays, conserve CPU power, and enrich the gaming experience
Pros
– Unprecedented PCIe Gen5 speeds for extreme performance
– Ideal for future-proof PC builds, AI applications, and workstation use
– Advanced cooling management and robust caching
– DirectStorage support for next-gen gaming
– Top-tier endurance and reliability
Cons
– Completely incompatible with PS4’s internal drive bay
– Premium price reflects bleeding-edge technology
– Requires compatible Gen5 motherboard to utilize full speed
User Impressions
Early adopters marvel at the NM1090 PRO’s incredible performance, noting near-instantaneous load times in games and applications designed to leverage Gen5. Users highlight its potential for high-end workstations and future-proof gaming rigs.
See it on Amazon here
5. Lexar 1.92TB NQ100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid…
For PS4 gamers seeking a reliable, cost-effective storage upgrade, the Lexar NQ100 1.92TB SSD is a solid choice. While not exactly 2TB, this 1.92TB (or 1920GB) capacity is still an enormous leap from the stock PS4 hard drive and provides excellent value. As a 2.5-inch SATA III drive, it fits perfectly into your PS4, offering much faster game loading and a more responsive console experience compared to traditional HDDs. It’s a pragmatic and dependable option for anyone focused on getting a better performance from their PS4.
Key Features
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
– Experience better performance and reliability than with a traditional hard drive
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– [1920GB] 672TBW
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros
– Excellent balance of price and performance for PS4
– Directly compatible with PS4 internal drive bay
– Significantly faster than a standard HDD
– Durable and quiet operation
– Decent endurance rating and warranty
Cons
– Slightly less than a full 2TB (1.92TB)
– SATA III speeds are limited by the PS4’s interface
User Impressions
Customers consistently report a substantial improvement in their PS4’s speed and responsiveness after installing the NQ100. Its affordability and straightforward installation process make it a popular recommendation for console upgrades, delivering noticeable performance gains where it matters most.
See it on Amazon here
6. PNY CS900 2TB 3D NAND 2.5″ SATA III Internal Solid…
The PNY CS900 2TB SSD is a strong contender for the title of Lexar best 2TB internal SSD for PS4 alternatives, offering fantastic performance and reliability at a competitive price point. This 2.5-inch SATA III drive is perfectly suited for an internal PS4 upgrade, delivering exceptional boot times and rapid application loads. PNY has a solid reputation in the storage market, and the CS900 exemplifies their commitment to accessible performance for everyday users and gamers alike.
Key Features
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer and feel the difference with super-fast OS boot times and application loads
– Exceptional performance offering up to 550MB/s seq. read and 530MB/s seq. write speeds
– Superior performance and up to 50% faster boot up time as compared to traditional hard-drives (HDD)
– Ultra-low power consumption
– 3 Year Warranty, 24/7 US based technical support
Pros
– Excellent speed boost for PS4’s internal storage
– Energy-efficient design
– Reputable brand with good customer support
– Standard 2.5-inch form factor for easy installation
– Very competitive pricing for 2TB capacity
Cons
– Endurance (TBW) not explicitly stated in provided features (though generally good for PNY)
– Performance is standard for SATA III, no surprises
User Impressions
Many users laud the PNY CS900 for its transformative effect on their older systems and PS4s, citing quicker boot-ups and drastically reduced game load times. Its easy installation and reliable performance often make it a go-to choice for budget-conscious upgrades.
See it on Amazon here
7. Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD, up…
Rounding out our list of top contenders (and an excellent alternative if you can’t find a Lexar best 2TB internal SSD for PS4 that fits your needs), the Crucial BX500 2TB SSD stands out for its reliability and outstanding value. Crucial, a brand from Micron, is known for its quality memory and storage products. This 2.5-inch SATA III SSD is a perfect match for an internal PS4 upgrade, promising up to 300% faster performance than a typical hard drive and improved energy efficiency, which is a bonus for your console.
Key Features
– Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness
– 300% faster than a typical hard drive
– Improves battery life because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive
– Micron 3D NAND – advancing the world’s memory and storage technology for 40 years
– Crucial 3-year limited warranty
Pros
– Excellent performance boost for PS4
– Highly energy-efficient
– Backed by Micron’s long-standing reputation for quality
– Very cost-effective for a 2TB capacity
– Easy installation in PS4’s 2.5-inch bay
Cons
– No DRAM cache, which can slightly impact performance in specific, heavy write scenarios (less relevant for PS4 gaming)
– Read/write speeds are typical for SATA III
User Impressions
The Crucial BX500 consistently receives high marks for making older systems and consoles feel brand new. Users frequently praise its ease of installation, noticeable speed improvements, and reliability, making it a highly recommended upgrade for anyone looking to revitalize their PS4.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section: Everything You Need to Know About PS4 SSD Upgrades
Q1: Can I put any 2.5-inch SSD in my PS4?
A: Yes, generally any standard 2.5-inch SATA III SSD will be compatible with your PS4’s internal drive bay. The console supports drive heights of up to 9.5mm, which most 2.5-inch SSDs fall within. NVMe M.2 drives are not directly compatible for internal PS4 use.
Q2: Will a 2TB SSD improve PS4 performance significantly?
A: Absolutely! Upgrading from the stock HDD to a 2TB SSD will dramatically improve game loading times, system boot-up, and overall console responsiveness. While it won’t increase frame rates (that’s CPU/GPU dependent), the reduction in waiting times makes for a much smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.
Q3: Is it hard to install an internal SSD in a PS4?
A: No, it’s actually quite straightforward! Sony designed the PS4 to allow for user-replaceable hard drives. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver, a USB drive to back up data, and a PC to download the PS4 system software. There are many excellent step-by-step guides and video tutorials available online.
Q4: What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe for PS4?
A: SATA (Serial ATA) is the older, more common interface used by the PS4’s internal drive bay. SATA III SSDs offer speeds up to around 550MB/s, which is a massive leap from the PS4’s stock HDD. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a much newer, faster interface, typically using M.2 form factor drives, with speeds often exceeding 7000MB/s. However, the PS4 only supports SATA for its internal drive. NVMe drives are for PS5 or PC.
Q5: Do I need to reinstall my games after upgrading the SSD?
A: Yes. When you install a new internal SSD, it’s a fresh slate. You’ll need to reinstall the PS4 system software from a USB drive, then redownload or reinstall all your games. Backing up your game saves to the cloud (if you have PS Plus) or a USB drive before the upgrade is highly recommended.
Q6: How long do SSDs last in a PS4?
A: Modern SSDs are very durable and reliable. Their lifespan is typically measured in “Terabytes Written” (TBW), indicating how much data can be written to the drive before its endurance limit is reached. A 2TB SSD designed for 600-1500 TBW (like the ones reviewed) would last many years, even with heavy gaming, easily outliving the console itself for most users.
Q7: Can I use an external SSD with my PS4 instead of internal?
A: Yes, the PS4 supports external USB 3.0 storage. Using an external SSD can improve game load times for games installed on it, though typically not as dramatically as an internal SSD due to the USB 3.0 interface limitations compared to the internal SATA III. It’s a good option for extra storage without opening your console.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 4 with a 2TB internal SSD is one of the best ways to inject new life into your beloved console. You’ll enjoy significantly faster load times, smoother gameplay, and ample storage for your growing game library. While advanced NVMe drives like the Lexar NM790 and NM1090 PRO are incredible for PS5 and PC, for your PS4’s internal bay, you’ll want a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD.
Our top picks, especially the Lexar NS100 and NQ100, alongside strong alternatives like the PNY CS900 and Crucial BX500, offer exceptional value and performance that will make your PS4 feel snappier than ever. Choose the drive that best fits your budget and needs, and get ready to experience your games with less waiting and more playing!