Top picks: Samsung 870 EVO internal and Samsung T7 external for fastest PS4 load times.

I live in the US, tucked near Austin, where my weekend ritual is simple: fire up the PS4, grab a controller, and dive into a long backlog of games. You might know the pain too. Slow loads. Full storage. That dreaded “not enough space” error right before a big update. That’s where the best ssd drive for ps4 steps in. It cuts wait times, makes menus snappier, and gives you room for more games. Whether you go external for easy plug-and-play or internal for a clean upgrade, the right SSD can make your PS4 feel fresh again.

Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD (USB 3.2)

The Crucial X10 1TB is a tiny external SSD with big speed. It’s rated up to 2,100 MB/s over USB 3.2, so it flies on modern PCs and Macs. On PS4, the USB 3.0 port caps real-world speeds, yet you still get a huge jump over a stock hard drive. Expect faster loads, smoother fast travel, and less waiting between levels. It’s bus-powered, so no extra cables. The body is small and sturdy enough for a backpack or a drawer by your TV. Setup is easy: plug it into your PS4, format as extended storage, and start moving games.

In testing across similar USB 3.0 consoles, portable SSDs like the X10 often cut load times by 30% to 60% versus HDDs. The X10’s compact size means it won’t clutter your TV stand. I like that it plays nice with both USB-C and USB-A, so it works across your devices. Keep in mind, your PS4 won’t reach the X10’s max numbers, but you’ll still feel the difference. For many players, this is a clear pick for the best ssd drive for ps4 if you want plug-and-play speed, a small footprint, and a name brand known for memory reliability.

Pros:

• Small and light; easy to carry or hide behind a console
• Fast external performance; big boost over PS4 hard drives
• USB-C and USB-A compatibility for broad device support
• Simple PS4 setup as extended storage
• Trusted brand track record with SSDs and memory

Cons:

• PS4 USB limits peak speed vs. a modern PC
• Cable may feel short for some entertainment centers
• Costs more per gig than HDD options

My Recommendation

The Crucial X10 1TB suits players who want fast, simple storage without opening the console. If you have a mid-sized library and want quicker loads on big titles, it’s a smart buy. It’s also a sleek, durable travel pick for gamers who move between living rooms. If you are hunting the best ssd drive for ps4 and you value plug-and-play ease over maximum capacity, start here. It offers great speed and a trusted name at a fair price point for a premium portable SSD. Availability is strong, and prices tend to be stable.

Best for	Why
Plug-and-play speed upgrade	No screws; simple PS4 extended storage setup
Travel-friendly external library	Compact, sturdy, and bus-powered via USB
Balanced price-to-performance	Fast enough for PS4 with strong brand reliability

BUFFALO 1TB External SSD (PS4/PS5 Ready)

BUFFALO’s 1TB External SSD is marketed as PS4/PS5 compatible, which takes guesswork out of the setup. It supports USB-C and USB-A, so it connects to older and newer gear. On PS4, it works as extended storage. That means you can install full games and play them from the drive. You’ll see snappier loads and smoother restarts versus the stock HDD. It is compact and light, so it sits quietly beside your console. It’s also a dependable brand for external storage, making it a well-rounded pick for the best ssd drive for ps4 if you want practical, console-ready storage.

The speed is strong for a portable SSD, though PS4’s USB port will still be the limiting factor. Where BUFFALO shines is in simple compatibility and value. Its 1TB size fits many libraries without overpaying for extra space you might not use. For families or casual players, this is a “set it and forget it” drive. It’s also great for students or shared living situations, since you can unhook it and bring it along. If you need more than 1TB, you may want to step up to larger capacities from other lines, but for most, this hits the sweet spot.

Pros:

• PS4/PS5 compatibility marketed up front
• USB-C and USB-A support covers most setups
• Compact body fits tight media centers
• Good price-to-performance balance
• Easy extended storage setup on PS4

Cons:

• 1TB may be small if you install many big titles
• Not the highest peak speed class
• Plastic shell isn’t as premium as some models

My Recommendation

Pick the BUFFALO 1TB External SSD if you want a straightforward upgrade that just works. It’s ideal for a modest library and gamers who value simplicity. If your goal is the best ssd drive for ps4 on a practical budget, this drive is a standout. It’s also a smart gift for PS4 owners who need room for seasonal updates. Availability is usually consistent, and prices are often very competitive for a console-friendly portable SSD.

Best for	Why
Easy console compatibility	Designed and marketed for PS4/PS5 use
Value-focused buyers	Solid performance without premium pricing
Casual to mid-core gamers	1TB fits common libraries and key titles

Samsung 870 EVO 1TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD

The Samsung 870 EVO is a gold standard 2.5-inch SATA SSD. If you want the top internal upgrade for PS4, this is one of the best. You remove the PS4’s hard drive, install the 870 EVO, and reinstall the PS4 system software. The process is simple with a USB flash drive and a small screwdriver. Once installed, the 870 EVO unlocks much faster reads than your stock HDD. You’ll feel quicker boots, smoother level loads, and faster fast travel. Samsung’s reliability and endurance are proven, and the 870 EVO has been a go-to pick for years.

There’s a reason many see the 870 EVO as the best ssd drive for ps4 when going internal. It blends high sustained performance with strong durability. On original PS4 models, the SATA interface may limit peak speeds, but the improvement over an HDD is still big. On PS4 Pro, SATA III bandwidth lets the drive stretch its legs a bit more. Either way, your games feel snappier. You also free up USB ports for accessories. If you want a clean, permanent upgrade with long-term reliability, this is a top choice that still makes sense in 2025.

Pros:

• Top-tier reliability and endurance
• Significant load-time gains vs. stock HDD
• Permanent internal upgrade frees USB ports
• Well-documented install process
• Excellent sustained performance under load

Cons:

• Requires opening the console and reinstalling system software
• Costs more than some budget SATA SSDs
• Not portable once installed

My Recommendation

Choose the Samsung 870 EVO if you want the best internal path to speed. It is ideal for those who plan to keep the PS4 for a while and want fewer cables. For the best ssd drive for ps4 that you install once and enjoy daily, it is hard to beat. It’s also great for homes where USB ports are crowded by headsets or charging cables. Availability is strong, and the 870 EVO’s track record keeps it a safe, premium pick.

Best for	Why
Permanent internal upgrade	Cleaner setup, no external drive needed
Stability and endurance	Samsung’s proven NAND and controller
PS4 Pro owners	Better chance to leverage SATA III bandwidth

Samsung T7 4TB Portable SSD (USB 3.2)

Need a huge library on one drive? The Samsung T7 4TB gives you room to spare. It’s fast, rated up to 1,050 MB/s, and very compact. On PS4, the USB 3.0 port sets the ceiling, but you’ll still feel faster loads over an HDD. More importantly, you’ll have space for dozens of big games and expansions. The T7 supports password protection and hardware encryption on PC, which is handy if you use it across devices. Build quality is solid, and the aluminum shell helps with heat. This drive is a powerhouse for those who want it all in one place.

Many players consider the T7 line the best ssd drive for ps4 when you need both speed and size. It’s perfect for long-term collectors, families with shared consoles, or players who swap titles often. Setup is easy: format it as extended storage on your PS4 and start moving content. The 4TB size also means fewer tough choices when the next big 100 GB update drops. If you want a single external drive that can cover almost everything you play, the T7 4TB is a top-tier option for 2025 and beyond.

Pros:

• Massive 4TB capacity for large libraries
• Fast external performance; noticeable gains vs. HDD
• Compact and sturdy aluminum body
• Password protection and hardware encryption (on supported devices)
• Trusted Samsung ecosystem and firmware support

Cons:

• Premium price for high capacity
• PS4 USB limits peak speed vs. Gen 2 PCs
• Short cable can be a minor hassle

My Recommendation

Go with the Samsung T7 4TB if you want to store a big PS4 library without juggling drives. It’s great for heavy gamers, families, and digital-only collectors. If your priority for the best ssd drive for ps4 is space plus speed, this checks both boxes. It’s also a smart backup plan for future consoles or PCs. Availability is good and the T7 line holds value well thanks to its solid performance and broad compatibility.

Best for	Why
Large digital libraries	4TB capacity handles many AAA titles
Shared households	One drive for multiple users and profiles
Future-proofing	Works across PS4, PCs, and newer devices

Crucial BX500 2TB 2.5-inch SATA SSD

The Crucial BX500 2TB is a budget-friendly 2.5-inch SATA SSD that brings solid speed to PS4 without a premium price. You get a huge bump over the stock hard drive, especially in load times and fast travel. At 2TB, it offers a generous internal upgrade that still keeps your setup clean. If you want a lot of space inside the console, this is a strong value. It doesn’t hit the peak numbers of Samsung’s 870 EVO, but for most PS4 workloads, you’ll feel a big improvement. Install is straightforward, and Crucial’s reputation for memory and storage is strong.

This drive is ideal if you want the best ssd drive for ps4 on a budget. The BX500 focuses on essentials: good sequential reads, low power draw, and enough endurance for console use. You will reinstall PS4 system software after swapping drives, and a USB flash drive is needed. Once done, your PS4 feels quicker in daily use. It’s a great upgrade for kids’ consoles, guest rooms, or anyone who wants speed without overpaying. If you prefer to spend on games rather than parts, the BX500 is a smart, cost-effective choice.

Pros:

• Great value for 2TB of internal storage
• Big speed boost vs. standard HDD
• Simple installation with basic tools
• Reliable brand with wide availability
• Clean, cable-free setup once installed

Cons:

• Not as fast as higher-end SATA SSDs
• Requires console disassembly and software reinstall
• Less portable than an external option

My Recommendation

Pick the Crucial BX500 2TB if budget matters and you want a big internal upgrade. It’s a smart way to give a second life to a PS4 without going premium. For many players, this is the best ssd drive for ps4 when balancing capacity, speed, and price. It’s also a great pick for a family console with lots of saves and games. Availability is broad, and sales often make this a very attractive buy.

Best for	Why
Budget internal upgrade	2TB capacity at a lower price point
Everyday gaming performance	Strong gains over HDD for common tasks
Clean console setup	No external cables after install

FAQs Of best ssd drive for ps4

Do SSDs actually speed up the PS4?

Yes. SSDs cut load times by a lot compared to the stock hard drive. Menus and fast travel feel quicker. Games still run at the same frame rates set by the system and game engine.

Should I choose an internal or external SSD?

External is easier. Plug in, format as extended storage, and play. Internal is cleaner and frees USB ports. If you want simple setup, external is best. If you want a permanent upgrade, go internal.

How much space do I need?

1TB fits a casual library. 2TB is a nice middle ground. 4TB suits big digital libraries and families. If you install many AAA games at once, more space helps.

Will the PS4 use full SSD speed?

No. PS4’s USB and SATA limits cap peak numbers. Still, SSDs are much faster than HDDs on PS4. You will feel the difference in loads and navigation.

How do I set up an external SSD on PS4?

Plug it into a USB port. Go to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices. Format as extended storage. Move games over and set it as the install location if you want.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

If you want the easiest speed boost, grab the Samsung T7 (4TB for big libraries) or the Crucial X10 (1TB for compact setups). Both are top picks for the best ssd drive for ps4 with simple plug-and-play use.

If you want a clean internal upgrade, pick the Samsung 870 EVO for peak reliability or the Crucial BX500 for value. Either way, your PS4 will feel faster and fresher in daily play.