Best Internal SSDs for PS4 & PS4 Pro (2025): Expert Picks, User Reviews & Upgrade Guide
If your PS4 or PS4 Pro is feeling sluggish, upgrading to an internal SSD is one of the smartest moves you can make. While the console’s SATA III interface limits ultra-fast speeds, switching from a traditional hard drive to a solid-state drive (SSD) still delivers a noticeable boost in performance, load times, and system responsiveness.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best internal SSDs for PS4 and PS4 Pro based on expert reviews and real user feedback. We’ll also walk you through installation tips, performance expectations, and SEO-optimized insights to help you make the right choice.
⚙️ Why Upgrade Your PS4 to an Internal SSD?
Upgrading your PS4’s internal hard drive to an SSD offers several benefits:
- Faster Game Load Times: SSDs can reduce loading screens by 30–60%, depending on the game.
- Improved System Responsiveness: Menus, boot-ups, and transitions feel smoother and snappier.
- Durability & Reliability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resistant to wear and shock.
- Quieter Operation: Say goodbye to noisy spinning drives—SSDs run silently.
- Long-Term Value: SSDs last longer and are less prone to mechanical failure.
Even though the PS4 doesn’t fully utilize the blazing speeds of modern SSDs, the upgrade is still worth it for gamers who want a smoother experience and faster access to their favorite titles.
🏆 Top Internal SSDs for PS4 & PS4 Pro (Expert Picks)
Here are the most recommended internal SSDs for PS4 and PS4 Pro based on expert reviews and user feedback from Reddit, Amazon, and gaming forums:
1. Samsung 870 EVO
The Samsung 870 EVO is a top-rated internal SSD upgrade for PS4 and PS4 Pro, offering fast read/write speeds up to 550MB/s, excellent durability, and silent operation. With its easy installation and compatibility with the console’s SATA III interface, it significantly reduces game loading times and enhances overall system responsiveness. Gamers frequently recommend it as a reliable, long-lasting solution to speed up gameplay and breathe new life into aging consoles—making it one of the best upgrades short of switching to next-gen hardware.
Users’ Feedback
PS4 users say the Samsung 870 EVO delivers noticeably faster load times and smoother gameplay, especially in open-world titles. Many prefer it over cheaper alternatives for its reliability and long-term performance.
2. Crucial BX500
The Crucial BX500 is a budget-friendly 2.5″ SATA III SSD that offers solid performance with read speeds up to 550MB/s, making it a practical upgrade for PS4 and PS4 Pro users seeking faster load times and smoother gameplay. Its plug-and-play compatibility with the console’s internal bay allows for easy installation, and while it lacks a DRAM cache, many gamers report significant improvements in boot speed and in-game transitions. Ideal for casual players or those upgrading from a stock hard drive, the BX500 delivers a noticeable performance boost without breaking the bank.
Users’ Feedback
PS4 users say the Crucial BX500 offers a noticeable speed boost over HDDs and is easy to install, but some caution that its DRAM-less design may lead to slower performance during heavy use. Others report smooth gameplay and reliable operation for casual gaming needs.
3. PNY CS900
The PNY CS900 SSD is a budget-friendly 2.5″ SATA III solid-state drive offering sequential read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 500MB/s, making it a solid internal upgrade for PS4 and PS4 Pro users seeking faster performance without overspending. Its plug-and-play compatibility with the console’s drive bay ensures easy installation, and its DRAM-less design helps keep costs low while still delivering noticeably quicker boot times, smoother game transitions, and reduced loading screens. With a durable build and energy-efficient operation, the CS900 is a reliable choice for gamers looking to enhance their console’s responsiveness and extend its lifespan.
Users’ Feedback
PS4 users report faster boot times and smoother gameplay after upgrading to the PNY CS900 SSD. It’s praised as a budget-friendly performance boost, though some note reliability concerns over time.
4. WD Blue SA510
The WD Blue SA510 SSD is a reliable 2.5″ SATA III solid-state drive offering read speeds up to 560MB/s and write speeds up to 510MB/s, making it a strong internal upgrade for PS4 and PS4 Pro users seeking faster load times and smoother system performance. With capacities up to 4TB and a long lifespan rated at 200 TBW and 1.75 million hours MTBF, it’s built for endurance and consistent gaming. Its plug-and-play compatibility with the PS4’s internal bay ensures easy installation, and gamers report noticeable improvements in boot speed, game transitions, and reduced lag—especially in open-world titles that benefit from faster asset loading.
Users’ Feedback
PS4 users say the WD Blue SA510 offers noticeably faster load times and smoother performance. However, some report early failures and recommend firmware updates to avoid issues.
💡 How to Choose the Right SSD for Your PS4
Before you buy, keep these tips in mind:
- Stick to 2.5″ SATA III SSDs: PS4 and PS4 Pro only support SATA III drives. NVMe SSDs won’t work.
- Capacity Matters: 1TB is the sweet spot for most gamers. Go higher if you have a large game library.
- Don’t Overspend on Speed: The PS4’s interface won’t fully utilize ultra-fast SSDs, so focus on reliability and value.
- Check Warranty & Brand Reputation: Trusted brands like Samsung, Crucial, WD, and SanDisk offer better support and longer warranties.
🛠️ Installation Guide: How to Upgrade Your PS4 with an SSD
Upgrading your PS4’s internal drive is easier than you think. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Back Up Your Data:
- Use a USB drive or cloud storage to back up saved games and settings.
- PS Plus subscribers can use online storage for game saves.
- Choose Your SSD:
- Make sure it’s a 2.5″ SATA III SSD with at least 500GB capacity.
- Remove the Old Drive:
- Power off your PS4 completely.
- Remove the hard drive cover and unscrew the drive cage.
- Swap out the old HDD for your new SSD.
- Install System Software:
- Download the PS4 system software from Sony’s official support page.
- Save it to a USB drive in a folder named
PS4 > UPDATE. - Boot your PS4 in Safe Mode and install the software.
- Restore Your Data:
- Reinstall games and restore saved data from your backup.
🧠 Final Verdict: Which SSD Should You Buy?
If you want the best performance and reliability, go with the Samsung 860 EVO or Crucial MX500. They’re trusted by gamers and tech experts alike. For budget-conscious users, the SanDisk SSD Plus and ADATA SU800 offer solid performance without breaking the bank.
Upgrading your PS4 or PS4 Pro with an internal SSD is one of the most effective ways to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore trophy hunter, this upgrade delivers smoother gameplay, faster load times, and a quieter console.
