Looking for the best SSD for PS4? Upgrading your PlayStation 4 with a solid-state drive is one of the smartest moves you can make to dramatically reduce load times, improve system responsiveness, and expand your game library. Whether you’re playing action-packed titles like God of War or open-world adventures like Red Dead Redemption 2, an SSD ensures smoother gameplay and faster boot-ups. In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the top SSDs compatible with PS4—both internal and external options—so you can pick the perfect match for your gaming setup, budget, and performance needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 What Is The Best Ssd For Ps4 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Midisem 4TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD M.2 2280 for Gaming and Content Creation
If you’re serious about maximizing your PS4’s performance and storage capacity, the Midisem 4TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD is a powerhouse option. While the PS4 doesn’t fully utilize PCIe Gen4 speeds, this SSD is ideal if you plan to upgrade to a PS5 later or use it in a PC. With massive 4TB capacity and blazing read/write speeds up to 7,400/6,800 MB/s, it’s built for gamers and creators alike.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Ultra-High Speed PCIe Gen4 Performance – 7400/6800 MB/s Read/Write
✓ Massive 4TB Capacity – Future-Ready Storage
✓ Universal Compatibility – Advanced M.2 2280 Design
✓ Backward Compatible with PCIe 3.0 Systems
✓ Durable and Reliable for Daily Use
Why We Recommend It
This SSD offers incredible value for its capacity and speed. Even though the PS4 caps SSD performance at around 550 MB/s, installing this drive prepares you for next-gen consoles and ensures maximum compatibility. Plus, its large storage lets you keep hundreds of games installed at once.
Best For
Gamers who want future-proof storage and plan to upgrade to PS5 or a gaming PC soon.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive 4TB storage capacity
- Top-tier Gen4 speeds (great for PS5/PC use)
- Solid build quality and reliability
- Backward compatible with older systems
Cons:
- Overkill for PS4-only users (won’t reach full speed)
- Requires internal installation (not plug-and-play)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this for my PS5 but tested it on my old PS4 first—worked flawlessly. Huge storage and super fast. Worth every penny if you game a lot.” – Alex R.
Customer Review: “Installed easily in my desktop. Speeds are as advertised. Great for video editing and gaming.” – Maria L.
2. Fanxiang 2TB Portable External SSD USB-C for iPhone, Android, Mac, and Windows
The Fanxiang 2TB Portable External SSD is perfect for PS4 users who want a simple, plug-and-play upgrade without opening up their console. With USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, it delivers up to 1000 MB/s transfer speeds—way faster than the PS4’s stock HDD. Its compact aluminum design makes it easy to carry, and it works seamlessly across devices.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Ultra-Fast 2TB External SSD with USB 3.2 Gen2
✓ Direct 4K ProRes Recording for iPhone
✓ Durable and Lightweight Aluminum Build
✓ Plug-and-Play Compatibility with PS4, PS5, PC, Mac
✓ Fingerprint-Resistant Finish
Why We Recommend It
This SSD strikes the perfect balance between speed, portability, and ease of use. You can format it for your PS4 in minutes and instantly expand your storage while enjoying noticeably faster load times. It’s also great for backing up saves or using with other devices.
Best For
Casual and competitive gamers who want a hassle-free external SSD upgrade for their PS4.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy USB connection—no installation required
- Fast 1000 MB/s read/write speeds
- Sleek, durable aluminum casing
- Works with multiple devices (PS4, iPhone, PC, etc.)
Cons:
- Slightly slower than internal NVMe drives
- Requires USB port space (may block adjacent ports)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have verified the read and write speed of this storage device and I can confirm that is capable to perform over one gigabyte performance for read and write operations.” – TechGuru99
Customer Review: “Great price point. Easy of use and fast transfer. Love it.” – Sarah M.
3. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink – M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds, Up to 6,300 MB/s Write
The WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB is a premium NVMe SSD that delivers top-tier performance, even if your PS4 won’t fully utilize its 7,300 MB/s speeds. Built for gamers, it includes a sleek heatsink for thermal management and uses high-quality NAND for long-term reliability. It’s an excellent investment if you’re upgrading your system or planning ahead for PS5.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ TRANSFORM YOUR PC: Insane speeds up to 7,300MB/s
✓ MORE ROOM FOR MORE GAMES: Capacities up to 8TB
✓ HEATSINK FOR THE WIN: Built-in cooling for sustained performance
✓ Optimized for Gaming and High-Performance Tasks
✓ Trusted Brand with 5-Year Warranty
Why We Recommend It
WD_BLACK is known for building some of the most reliable SSDs on the market. While the PS4 limits speed, this drive ensures you’re ready for future upgrades. The included heatsink prevents throttling, and the 2TB capacity gives you ample space for your entire game library.
Best For
Serious gamers who want a high-performance, durable SSD that will last through multiple console generations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds (ideal for PS5/PC)
- Includes effective heatsink
- Robust build and 5-year warranty
- Consistent performance under load
Cons:
- Higher cost per GB than budget drives
- Requires internal installation in PS4
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Upgraded to the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe from a Gen 3 SSD, and the difference is massive. This drive delivers exactly what it promises — insane speeds, great thermal performance, and rock-solid reliability.” – Jordan T.
Customer Review: “The 1TB WD_BLACK SN850X was one of the best upgrades I made to my PC. Installation in M.2 format was quick and easy, and I noticed the difference from the very first boot: game loading times were drastically reduced.” – Chris P.
4. SIX 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD with Heatsink for PS5 and Gaming PCs
The SIX 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD offers impressive performance at a competitive price. With read speeds up to 7,350 MB/s and a included heatsink, it’s designed for gamers who want speed and stability. While the PS4 won’t reach these speeds, it’s a smart pick if you’re building a multi-use drive for PS5 or PC gaming.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Unleash Upgraded Power – Up to 7350MB/s Read Speeds
✓ Work and Play – Optimized for Heavy Computing and Gaming
✓ Next-Level M.2 SSD – Compatible with Laptop, Desktop, or PS5
✓ Includes Heatsink, Screwdriver, and Mounting Hardware
✓ Easy Installation with Full Accessory Kit
Why We Recommend It
This SSD comes with everything you need for installation, including a heatsink and tools—great for first-time upgraders. It delivers excellent performance for the price and is ideal for users who want a reliable drive that works across platforms.
Best For
Budget-conscious gamers looking for a high-speed SSD with PS5 compatibility and easy setup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-speed PCIe 4.0 performance
- Comes with heatsink and installation tools
- Great value for the performance
- Compatible with multiple systems
Cons:
- 1TB may fill up quickly with modern games
- Limited brand recognition compared to Samsung or WD
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The SIX NVMe M.2 SSD PCIe 4.0 (1TB, 2280) absolutely exceeded my expectations. It arrived well packaged with everything I needed — an optional heatsink, screwdriver, screw, and standoff — which honestly saved me a trip to the store.” – Mike D.
Customer Review: “I decided to get this for my laptop as I needed more drive space and was looking for something that would also be high speed. So far this drive has been working great! Really fast for the price.” – Emily R.
5. WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink – M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds, Up to 6,300 MB/s Write
The 1TB version of the WD_BLACK SN850X offers the same high-end performance as its larger sibling but in a more compact capacity. It’s perfect for PS4 users who want a balance of speed, reliability, and affordability. The included heatsink ensures stable performance, even during long gaming sessions.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Insane speeds up to 7,300MB/s read
✓ Built with SANDISK TLC 3D NAND
✓ Heatsink version for optimal thermal performance
✓ Optimized for gaming and fast load times
✓ 5-Year Limited Warranty
Why We Recommend It
This SSD delivers premium performance at a mid-range price. While 1TB fills up faster than 2TB, it’s enough for 20–30 modern games. It’s a great choice if you want a trusted brand with excellent build quality and future-proofing.
Best For
Gamers who want a reliable, high-performance SSD without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Top-tier speed and reliability
- Includes heatsink for cooling
- Backed by WD’s reputation and warranty
- Great for PS4 and PS5 upgrades
Cons:
- 1TB fills up quickly with AAA titles
- Requires internal installation
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Upgraded to the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe from a Gen 3 SSD, and the difference is massive. This drive delivers exactly what it promises — insane speeds, great thermal performance, and rock-solid reliability.” – Jordan T.
Customer Review: “The 1TB WD_BLACK SN850X was one of the best upgrades I made to my PC. Installation in M.2 format was quick and easy, and I noticed the difference from the very first boot.” – Chris P.
6. Samsung 990 Pro 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD with Heatsink for PS5 and High-Performance Use
The Samsung 990 Pro 2TB is one of the fastest consumer SSDs on the market, with read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s. Designed for high-performance gaming and content creation, it includes a sleek heatsink and is officially recommended for PS5. While overkill for PS4, it’s a top-tier choice for multi-platform users.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ BLAZING SPEED. COOL VICTORY: Near-max performance with heatsink
✓ REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: 55%+ improvement in random performance
✓ THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND
✓ Read/Write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s
✓ Optimized for PS5 and High-Performance Use
Why We Recommend It
Samsung is a leader in SSD technology, and the 990 Pro is their flagship model. It’s incredibly fast, reliable, and built to handle heavy workloads. If you want the best and don’t mind paying a premium, this is it.
Best For
Enthusiasts and professionals who demand the highest performance and plan to use the SSD across PS5, PC, or workstations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Industry-leading speed and reliability
- Excellent thermal management with heatsink
- Trusted brand with strong warranty
- Perfect for PS5 and high-end PCs
Cons:
- Expensive compared to alternatives
- PS4 cannot utilize full speed potential
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am using two of these 1TB drives in a custom NAS box I put together running TrueNAS. While the majority of my backups are on the mirrored HDD drives, I use these Samsung NVMe drives for high-speed cache. They’re flawless.” – David K.
Customer Review: “This SSD is an absolute beast. The Samsung 990 PRO delivers insane read and write speeds — my system boots in seconds and large sessions in Logic load almost instantly.” – Rachel S.
7. 500GB External SSD USB 3.2 Gen 2 for PS4, PS5, Windows, and Mac
The 500GB External SSD is a budget-friendly option for PS4 users who need extra storage without complexity. With USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, it offers up to 1000 MB/s speeds and a compact, portable design. However, its small capacity and physical size may limit its usefulness for serious gamers.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ ULTIMATE GAMING STORAGE SOLUTION: Expand PS4/PS5 storage
✓ HIGH-SPEED PERFORMANCE: Up to 1000 MB/s transfer speeds
✓ COMPACT AND CONVENIENT: Stick form factor
✓ Plug-and-Play for PS4, PS5, Windows, Mac
✓ Affordable Entry-Level SSD
Why We Recommend It
This SSD is best suited for casual gamers or as a secondary backup drive. It’s easy to use and offers a noticeable improvement over the PS4’s internal HDD, but 500GB fills up fast with modern games.
Best For
Casual gamers or those needing a portable backup drive for saves and media.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Compact and portable
- Easy USB connection
- Decent speed for external drive
Cons:
- Only 500GB capacity (fills quickly)
- May block HDMI ports on PS5 when plugged in
- Lower build quality compared to premium brands
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “If you plug it into the usb ports on the back of the ps5 it covers the HDMI ports. So you won’t be able to use the only display ports on the system.” – User123
Customer Review: “If you try to chain any cords together to plug it into the system, it will say it’s not compatible and require you to plug it directly into the system…” – GamerX
Complete Buying Guide for What Is The Best Ssd For Ps4
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best SSD for PS4, we evaluate several key factors: speed, capacity, compatibility, ease of installation, and value for money. While the PS4 doesn’t support NVMe speeds, even SATA-based SSDs offer massive improvements over the stock HDD. We also consider whether the drive is internal (requiring installation) or external (plug-and-play), and how well it performs across multiple devices.
Budget Planning
SSDs range from under $50 for basic 500GB external models to over $200 for high-capacity NVMe drives. For most PS4 users, a 1TB–2TB external SSD offers the best balance of price and performance. If you plan to upgrade to PS5, investing in a Gen4 NVMe drive now can save money later.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your PS4 with an SSD is one of the most impactful improvements you can make. Whether you choose a fast external drive for convenience or a high-capacity internal NVMe for future-proofing, the right SSD will transform your gaming experience with faster loads, smoother performance, and more storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any SSD with my PS4?
A: Yes, but with limitations. The PS4 supports 2.5-inch SATA SSDs internally (up to 8TB) and external SSDs via USB 3.0+. NVMe drives require an adapter or external enclosure and won’t reach full speed on PS4.
Q: Will an SSD improve PS4 game loading times?
A: Absolutely. Even a basic SSD can cut load times by 30–50% compared to the stock HDD. Games like The Witcher 3 or Call of Duty will start and stream content much faster.
Q: Do I need to format the SSD before using it with PS4?
A: Yes. External SSDs must be formatted to exFAT or FAT32 using the PS4’s storage settings. Internal SSDs will be formatted automatically during installation.
Q: Is it worth buying a Gen4 SSD for PS4?
A: Only if you plan to use it with a PS5 or PC later. The PS4 maxes out at around 550 MB/s, so Gen4 speeds won’t be utilized—but it’s a smart long-term investment.
Q: Can I install an SSD myself?
A: Yes! Replacing the internal HDD is straightforward with a screwdriver and guide. External SSDs are even easier—just plug in and format.
Ready to supercharge your PS4? Pick one of our top-rated SSDs today and enjoy faster load times, more storage, and a smoother gaming experience. Click any “Check Price” button above to find the best deal on Amazon!