If you’re upgrading your PS5 with a 4TB internal SSD, choosing the right drive is essential for optimal gaming performance and future-proofing. The WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB NVMe SSD stands out as the overall best, thanks to its high speeds and reliable heatsink. Other top contenders like the Samsung 990 PRO and Lexar NM790 offer impressive throughput, but come with tradeoffs around heat management and price. Balancing speed, heat dissipation, and compatibility is key in this category. Keep reading to explore the nine best options and find the perfect fit for your gaming setup.
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Key Takeaways
- High-speed PCIe 4.0 drives significantly reduce game load times on PS5, but heat management is critical for sustained performance.
- Heatsinks improve stability and longevity, yet add size and complexity to installation, especially in tight PS5 enclosures.
- The top-tier drives like WD_BLACK SN850X and Samsung 990 PRO offer the fastest speeds but come at a premium price point.
- Budget options like Bestoss deliver decent performance for less, though they may run hotter or have slightly lower sustained speeds.
- Compatibility with PS5’s SSD slot and firmware updates are essential to ensure seamless integration and future support.
| WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink |  | Best Overall for High-Speed Gaming and Reliability | Digital Storage Capacity: 4 TB | Hard Disk Interface: NVMe | Connectivity Technology: NVMe | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bestoss M.2 2280 NVMe SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 |  | Best for Compatibility and Professional Use | Storage Capacity: 4 TB | Hard Disk Interface: PCIe x4 | Connectivity Technology: NVMe | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Fikwot FN960 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 x4 with Heatsink for PS5 and PC |  | Best for Thermal Management and Versatility | Storage Capacity: 4 TB | Interface: NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 | Form Factor: M.2 2280 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Fikwot FX991 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD PCIe Gen 4×4 |  | Best for Extreme Speed and High-Performance Computing | Storage Capacity: 4 TB | Hard Disk Interface: PCIe x4 | Connectivity Technology: M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lexar 4TB NM790 NVMe SSD with Heatsink, Up to 7400MB/s Read, 6500MB/s Write |  | Best Premium Choice for Speed and Security | Digital Storage Capacity: 4TB | Hard Disk Interface: NVMe | Connectivity Technology: M.2 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD |  | Best Overall for High-End Gaming and Heavy Workloads | Capacity: 4TB | Form Factor: M.2 NVMe | Interface: PCIe 4.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crucial P310 2280 4TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe Gaming SSD with Heatsink for PS5, Laptop & Desktop |  | Best Value for Versatile High-Speed Storage | Capacity: 4TB | Form Factor: 2.5 inches | Interface: NVMe | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Fikwot FN950 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4x4 M.2 2280 |  | Best for Durability and Thermal Management | Capacity: 4TB | Interface: PCIe x4 | Read Speed: 5000 MB/s | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Fanxiang 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD for PS5, M.2 2280, Up to 7000MB/s |  | Best for Compact High-Speed Storage | Capacity: 1TB | Interface: PCIe x4 | Read Speed: 7000 MB/s | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| internal ssd for ps5 4tb | Read Speed | Warranty | Interface | Form Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB NVMe SSD w | — | — | — | — |
| Bestoss M.2 2280 NVMe SSD 4TB | 7350 MB/s | 3 years | — | — |
| Fikwot FN960 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 5000 MB/s | 5 years | NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 | M.2 2280 |
| Fikwot FX991 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD | 7000 MB/s | 5 years | — | — |
| Lexar 4TB NM790 NVMe SSD with | 7400MB/s | — | — | M.2 2280 |
| Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink | — | — | PCIe 4.0 | M.2 NVMe |
| Crucial P310 2280 4TB PCIe Gen | — | — | NVMe | 2.5 inches |
| Fikwot FN950 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe | 5000 MB/s | 5 years | PCIe x4 | — |
| Fanxiang 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen 4 S | 7000 MB/s | 5 years | PCIe x4 | M.2 2280 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink
This model stands out for its exceptional read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, making it ideal for reducing load times in demanding PS5 games. Its built-in heatsink ensures consistent performance during extended gaming sessions, outperforming the Fikwot FX991’s plastic enclosure, which might heat up under heavy load. While its high cost and the need for a Windows environment for dashboard features are drawbacks, it offers a robust solution for gamers who prioritize speed and thermal management. Compared to other options, it balances high performance with a reputable brand and extensive capacity support up to 8TB, making it a versatile choice for those who want a premium upgrade.
Pros:- Very fast read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for quick load times
- Built-in heatsink helps maintain peak performance during intensive use
- Supports large capacities up to 8TB for extensive game and data storage
Cons:- Replaced by newer models, making it harder to find in some stores
- Requires Windows for dashboard features, limiting Mac or Linux users
Best for: Power gamers and tech enthusiasts seeking top-tier load times and thermal stability in their PS5 storage.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users who want a more affordable SSD without built-in cooling or the latest top speeds.
- Digital Storage Capacity:4 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:NVMe
- Connectivity Technology:NVMe
- Additional Features:Heatsink
- Hard Disk Form Factor:2280
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for gamers who want premium performance and thermal management in their PS5 SSD.”
Bestoss M.2 2280 NVMe SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0
This drive offers outstanding speeds up to 7350 MB/s read and 6600 MB/s write, making it suitable for intense gaming and professional workflows. Its effective cooling system and broad compatibility with PS5, PCs, and laptops make it more versatile than the Fikwot FN960, which is primarily designed for high performance but doesn’t emphasize cooling as much. The 3-year warranty adds reassurance, but the necessity of a PCIe 4.0 compatible motherboard can limit some users. If you have a compatible system, this SSD delivers excellent performance for demanding tasks without the premium price of the Lexar NM790.
Pros:- Extremely fast read/write speeds suitable for gaming and professional tasks
- Effective cooling system maintains high performance during intensive use
- Wide compatibility with PCs, laptops, and PS5
Cons:- Requires PCIe 4.0 motherboard to achieve maximum speeds
- Potentially higher cost compared to lower-end SSDs
Best for: Power users with PCIe 4.0 systems seeking a reliable, high-speed SSD for gaming and creative work.
Not ideal for: Owners of older systems or consoles that lack PCIe 4.0 support, as they won’t benefit fully from its speeds.
- Storage Capacity:4 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:PCIe x4
- Connectivity Technology:NVMe
- Read Speed:7350 MB/s
- Write Speed:6600 MB/s
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Best suited for users with compatible hardware who want high-speed performance and broad device support.”
Fikwot FN960 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 x4 with Heatsink for PS5 and PC
The Fikwot FN960 provides a good balance of speed and thermal control with read speeds up to 5,000 MB/s and a dedicated heatsink. Compared to the Fikwot FX991, it offers slightly lower maximum speeds but emphasizes thermal stability, which can be critical for consistent performance in PS5 and other high-performance setups. Its 5-year warranty and compatibility with a variety of devices make it a solid choice for gamers and professionals alike. However, the need for installation and proper thermal management might be a barrier for less experienced users, and the performance ceiling is lower than the top-tier options like the Lexar NM790.
Pros:- High-speed read and write performance suitable for gaming and professional tasks
- Includes a heatsink for effective thermal management
- Versatile compatibility with PS5, desktops, and laptops
Cons:- Requires installation and proper thermal setup for optimal performance
- Potentially higher cost compared to SATA SSDs
Best for: Enthusiasts who want reliable performance with effective thermal management in their PS5 or PC.
Not ideal for: Users seeking the fastest possible speeds or those not comfortable with installation and thermal considerations.
- Storage Capacity:4 TB
- Interface:NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4
- Form Factor:M.2 2280
- Read Speed:5000 MB/s
- Write Speed:4500 MB/s
- Warranty:5 years
Our verdict“Ideal for users who prioritize thermal stability and versatile compatibility over maximum speed.”
Fikwot FX991 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD PCIe Gen 4×4
The Fikwot FX991 boasts impressive speeds up to 7,000 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write, positioning it among the fastest SSDs for PS5. Its advanced thermal management and hardware encryption are appealing, but its plastic enclosure may reduce durability over time compared to metal options like the Lexar NM790. While its high performance makes it suitable for demanding gaming and multimedia tasks, the heat generated at these speeds requires careful cooling setup. Compared to the Lexar, it may lack some integrated security features, but its blistering speeds make it a prime choice for those who need every ounce of performance.
Pros:- Extremely fast read/write speeds up to 7000MB/s
- Excellent thermal management with graphite heatsink
- Broad compatibility with PCs, laptops, and PS5
Cons:- Plastic enclosure may be less durable over time
- High heat output requires proper cooling
Best for: High-end gamers and professionals who need maximum speed and can manage thermal requirements.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with less capable cooling solutions, as high speeds can lead to heat buildup.
- Storage Capacity:4 TB
- Hard Disk Interface:PCIe x4
- Connectivity Technology:M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0
- Read Speed:7000 MB/s
- Media Speed:6200 MB/s
- Warranty:5 years
Our verdict“Great for demanding applications where the highest speed outweighs concerns about enclosure durability.”
Lexar 4TB NM790 NVMe SSD with Heatsink, Up to 7400MB/s Read, 6500MB/s Write
The Lexar NM790 offers the fastest speeds in this lineup, reaching up to 7400 MB/s read and 6500 MB/s write, making it a prime choice for the most demanding PS5 users. Its integrated heatsink ensures thermal stability during extended gaming or professional use, surpassing even the Fikwot FX991 in raw performance. The inclusion of hardware encryption, however, adds to its cost and complexity. Compared to the other options, this drive is designed for those who want top-tier performance and security, but its premium price might be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers. It demonstrates that speed and security can coexist in a compact M.2 form factor, ideal for serious users.
Pros:- Exceptional read and write speeds for demanding tasks
- Built-in heatsink for thermal stability during prolonged use
- Includes hardware encryption for security
Cons:- Higher cost compared to other 4TB SSDs
- Complex setup might be needed for encryption features
Best for: Enthusiasts who need the fastest speeds combined with security features for their PS5 and high-performance computing.
Not ideal for: Users on a tight budget or those who do not require the absolute highest speeds or encryption capabilities.
- Digital Storage Capacity:4TB
- Hard Disk Interface:NVMe
- Connectivity Technology:M.2
- Read Speed:7400MB/s
- Media Speed:6500MB/s
- Cache Memory:4GB
- Form Factor:M.2 2280
Our verdict“Best suited for users who demand maximum performance with added security features in their PS5 setup.”
Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink stands out for its exceptional sequential read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s, surpassing many competitors like the Crucial P310, especially in sustained performance thanks to its integrated heatsink. This makes it ideal for gamers and professionals who need consistent, top-tier speeds without thermal throttling. While its premium price might deter budget-conscious buyers, the built-in heatsink means fewer additional accessories are needed for optimal cooling. Compared to the Fikwot FN950, it offers slightly higher speeds but at a higher cost, and system compatibility must be confirmed to maximize its potential. The tradeoff involves paying for the highest performance at a premium, which may not be necessary for all users.
Pros:- Blazing fast read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s
- Built-in heatsink for effective thermal management
- Compatible with PS5 and PCIe 4.0 systems
- Large 4TB capacity for extensive storage
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive for some users
- Performance depends on system compatibility and configuration
Best for: Enthusiasts and professionals who demand maximum speed and thermal stability in their PS5 or high-performance PC builds
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious gamers or users with older systems that cannot fully leverage PCIe 4.0 speeds
- Capacity:4TB
- Form Factor:M.2 NVMe
- Interface:PCIe 4.0
- Sequential Read Speed:7450 MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed:6900 MB/s
- Heatsink:Integrated
Our verdict“This is best suited for users who prioritize top-tier performance and thermal stability, and are willing to invest accordingly.”
Crucial P310 2280 4TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe Gaming SSD with Heatsink for PS5, Laptop & Desktop
The Crucial P310 offers a compelling balance of speed and affordability, with read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s and write speeds of 6,000 MB/s, making it comparable in performance to the Samsung 990 PRO. Its 4TB capacity makes it a solid choice for gamers with extensive libraries or professionals working with large files. While it requires a compatible M.2 slot, its backward compatibility with PCIe 3.0 systems provides some flexibility. Compared to the Fanxiang 1TB, it offers four times the capacity but at a higher cost, and performance benefits may diminish on older hardware. Its inclusion of a heatsink helps maintain performance during prolonged gaming sessions, but system compatibility is key to achieving its best speeds.
Pros:- High sequential read/write speeds up to 7,100/6,000 MB/s
- Large 4TB capacity for extensive game and media storage
- Compatible with PS5, desktops, and laptops
- Includes heatsink for thermal stability
Cons:- Requires a compatible M.2 slot; performance limited on older systems
- More expensive than lower capacity SSDs
Best for: Gamers and users seeking high capacity and speed on a budget, compatible with a wide range of devices
Not ideal for: Older systems with PCIe 3.0 or slower interfaces, where the full speed potential isn’t realized
- Capacity:4TB
- Form Factor:2.5 inches
- Interface:NVMe
- Sequential Read Speed:7100 MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed:6000 MB/s
- Additional Features:Heatsink included
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for gamers and professionals needing high capacity and speed across multiple device types without breaking the bank.”
Fikwot FN950 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4x4 M.2 2280
The Fikwot FN950 offers a stable, high-speed experience with read speeds up to 5000 MB/s, slightly below top-tier options like the Samsung 990 PRO, but it compensates with excellent thermal management and durability testing. Its 5-year warranty and extensive stress testing make it a reliable choice for demanding gaming and professional workloads. Compared with the Crucial P310, it might have marginally lower speeds, yet its thermal design and durability testing set it apart for long-term use. Its performance could be limited on older systems lacking PCIe 4.0 support, but for compatible setups, it provides consistent, heat-controlled operation.
Pros:- High read/write speeds up to 5000/4500 MB/s
- Excellent thermal management with advanced cooling solutions
- Durability tested with a 5-year warranty
- Wide compatibility including PS5
Cons:- Requires PCIe 4.0 support; performance limited otherwise
- No included accessories or mounting hardware
Best for: Users who need a reliable, durable SSD with excellent thermal management for intensive tasks
Not ideal for: Older systems or those with PCIe 3.0 interfaces, where full performance isn’t attainable
- Capacity:4TB
- Interface:PCIe x4
- Read Speed:5000 MB/s
- Write Speed:4500 MB/s
- Warranty:5 years
- Compatibility:Desktop, Laptop, PS5
Our verdict“This option is well-suited for users valuing long-term reliability and thermal stability over absolute maximum speed.”
Fanxiang 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD for PS5, M.2 2280, Up to 7000MB/s
The Fanxiang 1TB NVMe SSD stands out with its impressive read speeds up to 7000 MB/s, making it the fastest among these options for quick game load times and content creation. Its compact 1TB capacity limits its use to those who prioritize speed over storage size, and system compatibility requires a PCIe 4.0 slot. Compared to the larger 4TB options, this SSD is ideal for users who want the highest possible speeds in a smaller package, but it means sacrificing storage space for speed. Its thermal management features are effective, but the plastic enclosure may be less durable over time than metal alternatives. It’s best suited for users with specific space and speed needs.
Pros:- Exceptional read speeds up to 7000 MB/s
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor fits in tight spaces
- Effective thermal management with graphite and aluminum layers
- 5-year warranty and lifetime support
Cons:- Limited 1TB storage capacity
- Plastic enclosure may be less durable
- Performance limited to PCIe 4.0 systems
Best for: Content creators and gamers who need the fastest load times in a small form factor
Not ideal for: Users with large game libraries or media collections, due to limited capacity
- Capacity:1TB
- Interface:PCIe x4
- Read Speed:7000 MB/s
- Write Speed:3000 MB/s
- Warranty:5 years
- Form Factor:M.2 2280
Our verdict“This SSD is ideal for users needing the fastest possible performance in a small, portable form factor, with less concern for storage volume.”
How We Picked
To select these SSDs, I focused on performance benchmarks, thermal management, build quality, and user reviews specific to PS5 compatibility. Speed is a primary factor because fast load times improve gaming experience, especially with 4TB capacity. Heat dissipation, via heatsinks or design, plays a crucial role in maintaining consistent speeds and device longevity. I also prioritized drives that are officially compatible with PS5’s SSD slot and firmware updates, reducing the risk of issues. The ranking reflects a balance of speed, heat management, reliability, and value, aiming to help gamers find options that suit different budgets and needs.| internal ssd for ps5 4tb | Interface |
|---|---|
| WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB NVMe SSD w | — |
| Bestoss M.2 2280 NVMe SSD 4TB | — |
| Fikwot FN960 4TB M.2 NVMe SSD | NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 |
| Fikwot FX991 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD | — |
| Lexar 4TB NM790 NVMe SSD with | — |
| Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink | PCIe 4.0 |
| Crucial P310 2280 4TB PCIe Gen | NVMe |
| Fikwot FN950 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe | PCIe x4 |
| Fanxiang 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen 4 S | PCIe x4 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Internal Ssd For Ps5 4tb
Choosing the right internal SSD for your PS5 involves understanding several key factors. Beyond raw speed, thermal management, form factor, and compatibility influence long-term performance and ease of installation. Not all drives are equally suited for gaming, especially when considering sustained workloads and heat generation. Being aware of these factors helps prevent common pitfalls like overheating or compatibility issues, ensuring your investment enhances your gaming experience.Performance and Speed
Speed is vital for reducing load times and enabling quick game switching. Look for drives with PCIe 4.0 support and high read/write speeds—ideally above 7000MB/s for the best experience. However, the fastest drives often generate more heat, so pairing speed with good thermal solutions is necessary. Consider your gaming habits: if you plan to load large open-world titles frequently, prioritize top-tier speeds, but for casual gaming, mid-range speeds may suffice and save money.
Thermal Management
Overheating can throttle SSD performance and reduce lifespan. Many high-performance drives include heatsinks, which are highly recommended for PS5 use due to the console’s limited airflow. If a drive lacks a heatsink, check if it supports aftermarket cooling solutions or consider adding one yourself. Proper thermal management helps sustain high speeds during extended gaming sessions and prevents unexpected crashes or slowdowns.
Compatibility and Form Factor
Ensure the SSD conforms to the M.2 2280 form factor and supports PCIe 4.0 standards. PS5’s slot is quite specific, and not all NVMe drives fit or work properly without firmware updates. Confirm the drive’s firmware is compatible and available for PS5, as some cheaper options might lack official support. A drive that is officially certified or widely tested for PS5 use reduces the risk of installation or performance issues.
Price and Value
Prices for 4TB PCIe 4.0 SSDs vary widely, often reflecting speed, heatsink quality, and brand reputation. While premium drives like the Samsung 990 PRO come with higher costs, they also offer the best sustained performance and thermal efficiency. Budget options may save money upfront but could compromise longevity or thermal stability. Consider your budget and whether the incremental performance gains justify the extra expense.
Future-Proofing and Firmware Support
Choosing a drive with ongoing firmware updates ensures compatibility with future PS5 updates and improvements. Some brands provide dedicated support and updates that enhance stability and performance over time. This is especially important if you plan to keep your SSD for several years. Research whether the manufacturer actively supports PS5 firmware updates and if the drive has a history of reliable support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any NVMe SSD in my PS5?
No, not all NVMe SSDs are compatible with the PS5. The console requires drives to be M.2 2280 form factor, PCIe 4.0 support, and often needs specific firmware for PS5 compatibility. It’s best to choose SSDs that are listed by Sony or have been tested by other gamers for PS5 use. Compatibility issues can lead to installation problems or reduced performance, so double-check the specifications before purchasing.
Do I need a heatsink on my SSD for PS5?
Yes, a heatsink is highly recommended for PS5 SSDs, especially for high-speed PCIe 4.0 drives. The console’s limited airflow can cause drives to overheat, which results in thermal throttling and performance drops. Many SSDs come with built-in heatsinks, but if yours does not, adding an aftermarket heatsink is a wise step. Proper cooling ensures sustained speeds and longer drive lifespan during extended gaming sessions.
Is a higher read/write speed always better for PS5?
While higher speeds generally improve load times and game responsiveness, the difference becomes less noticeable beyond a certain point—around 7000MB/s. For most gamers, drives with speeds over this threshold are sufficient. Investing in the fastest drives makes sense if you’re playing large open-world games frequently or want the lowest possible load times. Otherwise, a slightly lower but more affordable drive may offer better value.
How important is firmware support for PS5 SSDs?
Firmware support ensures the SSD remains compatible with future PS5 updates and maintains optimal performance. Many manufacturers release updates to improve stability, fix bugs, and enhance thermal management. Investing in a drive from a reputable brand with active firmware support reduces the risk of future compatibility issues. Checking the manufacturer’s update history before buying can save headaches later.
What’s the biggest mistake to avoid when upgrading my PS5 SSD?
The most common mistake is choosing a drive that is not officially compatible or lacking a heatsink, which can lead to overheating and throttling. Another mistake is ignoring firmware updates or not confirming the drive’s size and interface specifications. Properly researching compatibility and thermal solutions before installation helps ensure your upgrade is successful and that your gaming experience remains smooth.
Conclusion
For most gamers seeking the best overall performance, the WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB NVMe SSD offers a superb balance of speed, thermal management, and reliability. Budget-conscious users will appreciate the Bestoss M.2 2280 NVMe SSD for its affordability, though with some thermal caveats. Those wanting premium, top-tier speeds should consider the Samsung 990 PRO or Lexar NM790, which excel in sustained throughput and heat dissipation. Beginners or those less familiar with technical specs may prefer drives with built-in heatsinks and simple installation, like the Crucial P310. Ultimately, your choice depends on your budget, performance needs, and willingness to manage thermal considerations—select the option that best aligns with your gaming goals and setup constraints.
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