Best External Hard Drives for PS4 | Review & Guide
The Playstation 4 is the best selling console of this generation and she has many qualities and a catalog of games now therefore. However, it is not unusual that the biggest gamers meet a storage problem, force install new increasingly demanding titles. The solution ? Opting for an external hard drive for PS4 to increase the storage space of the machine!
To enjoy your PS4 games without having to constantly delete the data, remove the demos that take up space or uninstall games are over, we present here 7 portable SSD that will allow you to play without limit. Choose the best external hard drive for PS4 helping you our final purchase guide and advice.
The best external hard drives for PS4 in 2020
While the biggest games PS4 now display sizes of tens of gigabytes at their outlet (not including updates), it may be wise to choose a good external hard drive to your console, so take advantage of the latest Call of Duty, FF7 Remake or future Cyberpunk 2077 without constraint. Here are our picks!
1. The T5 Samsung – The best external hard drive for PS4
The hard disk of the Korean brand Samsung is also lighter than compact with dimensions of 1 x 7.4 x 5.7 cm and weighs 50 grams. The ergonomics is one of the SSD laptop models most convenient to carry, either in a pocket or backpack, which will allow players to use with PS4, but also with other devices with which it is compatible as a Mac, a PC or a smartphone …
The T5 Portable SSD has a transfer speed of up to 540 MB / s, which makes about 9 times faster than a traditional hard drive and ample for the Playstation 4 which requires 40 transfer minium MB / s. at maximum speed, so it takes only few minutes to download a game to the external hard drive.
This material is compatible with the USB 3.0 required and is secured through the use of 256-bit AES encryption protocol, and has the ability to put a password to protect data. It connects in a flash and offers ease of use and format, via the PC interface.
Among its strengths, its elegant and discreet and especially its impact resistance. If you accidentally come in the way down, no risk of your backups or your games suddenly disappear! In addition, a blue light indicates that it is in operation, which is convenient. It comes with a USB-C, a bit rigid on the weight of the SSD (strained, it will not be flat) but that improves the transfer time.
Disponible en versions 250 Go, 500 Go, 1 TO, 2 TO.
Verdict – This Samsung T5 model is the best external hard drive for the PS4, whether in terms of convenience of use, robustness than execution speed. To give a boost to your console and download any games that you like, it will be your best ally!
2. Elements Western Digital – Best PS4 external hard drive for hardcore gamers
If you’re one of the big players who frequently use the PlayStation Store to buy new titles, you need a PS4 external hard disk with a storage capacity of the widest. With versions ranging from 500 GB to 5 TO, this model of the brand Western Digital seems to be an excellent choice.
Relatively small (11.1 x 8.2 x 2.1 cm) and lightweight (200 g), it is a portable SSD that has a good ergonomics. Black, rectangle, it is discreet and will not work next to your PS4. Guests appreciate the coating that guarantees a good solidity and reassures about its ability to withstand shocks. It is also compatible with PCs and Macs, that will format it as desired.
This external Hard drive offers transfer speeds that can reach 2.5 Gb per second, which is therefore (maximum performance) and does not have e security protocol, it relies on its USB 3.0 interface (Compatible USB 2.0) to ensure users the best experience possible.
Self-powered, it comes with a USB 3.0 cable, a bit too short (less than 30 cm), which could push you to buy another. For the rest, it is a external hard drive that will delight players who want to make room on their console, taking advantage of an excellent quality / price ratio, regardless of the version. At this price, do not hesitate to be generous, taking into account that some of the more recent titles PS4 require almost 100 GB of free space!
Disponible en versions 500 Go, 750 Go, 1 TO, 1.5 TO, 2 TO, 3 TO, 4 TO, 5 TO.
Verdict – Elements model of the brand Western Digital shines space it offers huge storage, depending on the version, a writing speed and reading the data very satisfying and thoughtful design. For an efficient Portable SSD for your PS4 without breaking the bank, this is a very good choice.
3. Expansion Seagate – A Plug and Play convenient for your PS4
This external hard drive is compatible PS4 from Seagate is a plug and play ultra simple to use for storing your games, videos, images and all your multimedia files in a snap, simply by dragging Portable SSD.
Level ergonomics, it benefits from a compact design with dimensions of 12.2 x 1.5 x 8.1 cm and weighs 180 grams, making it as convenient to carry as store next to the machine which will connect it. PlayStation 4, PC or laptop, it is compatible with all devices that operate in USB 3.0 (it is also compatible with USB 2.0).
To make it work, there need any software, just the supplied cable has more good taste to be quite long (46 cm) for practical use. Upon connection, it is detected and you just have to place the files you want on it. Gamers who are tired of having to delete their old games with each new acquisition will be delighted to be able to transfer songs and backups as fast the console SSD.
With a transfer rate of up to 5 Gb per second and a capacity of 2TB for this model (4 times the storage space of a traditional PS4), you can store approximately 50 full games! If you subscribe to Playstation +, it will be the opportunity to enjoy free monthly passes without constraints!
This compact external drive is strong enough, due to its plastic shell and it is not noisy to use as can certain agricultural products, which will please the pickiest gamers.
Disponible en versions 500 Go, 1 TO, 2 TO, 4 TO, 5TO.
Verdict – If you are looking for the best hard drive for your External PS4 and among your primary criteria, there is ease of use, so go for it! This Seagate Expansion model is a quality product, fast and strong, that you can purchase in 500GB models 5 TO, which will delight the biggest players.
4. Rugged USB-C Lacie – e strongest market model
The external hard drive model proposed by the Lacie brand has an ultra light design, because of its orange shell that does not plairat everyone. But it is not trivial, since this protection ensures that SSDs resistance foolproof.
It is built to withstand falls, crushing or rain / water, which will delight the most awkward player, users who frequently travel with their hard drive and those who want a product shockproof they can leave out even for parties with friends or LAN parties, without fear that it will break.
This strength is his No. 1 asset, but it is not the only quality brand of external hard drive. Compatible with the PlayStation 4, but also with computers running Windows and Mac, it uses USB 3.0 connectivity and a USB-C cable provided to ensure optimal transfer speed, which can climb to 5 Gb / s.
The cable is also reversible, for greater ease of use and full backward compatibility with USB 2.0, for use with all devices. For the PS4 is a convenient tool for storing unused games, transfer your backups and screenshots, or download new titles that will work while being stored on the SSD portable, without any difference with games stored directly on the Sony console. No delays, no additional loading time, it’s great.
Among its strengths, the integrated software we include protection password, and the automatic Eco mode which allows up to 40% saving on consumption generated by the disc, that will work long hours to undoubtedly.
In addition, a 2-year data recovery warranty is included in case of trouble, and a free subscription to one month program and applications of Adobe Creative Cloud for lovers of retouching / editing photos and videos . Between games of PES or two frags Doom Eternal, why not let talk your creative talents!
Disponible en versions 1 TO, 2 TO, 5TO.
Verdict – Here is the best external hard drive for the PS4 to the least careful players or simply those who fear losing their data because of a bad move. In an online game, it is common that a gesture of annoyance comes waltz throttle and Portable SSD is sometimes on the front line. To avoid this possibility, it is this model that you need!
5. The Canvio Basics Toshiba – Excellent SSD Portable for the PlayStation 4
Toshiba offers in its range of Canvio Basics external hard drive compatible with the PS4, this model of excellence, which shines as much by design as by the performance it offers.
Let’s start with his style, black and compact, with a light weight of 150 grams and dimensions of 10.9 x 7.8 x 1.4 centimeters, for easy storage, easy placement on a desk or in the TV cabinet next to your console, and transportation that poses no concern.
This model of 1TB will allow you to store about 25 games to maximize the capabilities of your PlayStation 4 and its catalog of impressive games. No need to deny or erase wonder what game the solution is simple with this SSD that runs automatically: you plug it into the USB port of the console, it appears you format and it’s ready to run. Plug and Play as we like.
Ultra rapid mass transfer data (with a maximum transfer rate of 5 Gb / s for moving a set of 50 GB of the PS4 external DD, in about 15 minutes), it operates in USB 3.0, but is obviously compatible with USB 2.0 devices. It is also supplied with a USB cable (only 20 cm …) and has a coating that gives it a good strength, even if we recommend the purchase plus a protective case, to avoid shocks. Remember that it is guaranteed for two years by the brand.
Toshiba has more to prove in this sector and this reliable product perfectly designed us proves it again with this external hard drive for PS4 contained undoubtedly among the best models on the market today.
Disponible en versions 500 Go, 1 TO, 2 TO, 5TO.
Verdict – The PS4 players anxious to acquire a reliable external hard drive capable of fast data transfer and with good usability can opt for this Toshiba Canvio Basics without hesitation. Japanese material for a Japanese console, and the circle is complete.
6. The Maxtor Seagate – A portable hard drive cheap for PS4
To increase the storage capacity of your PS4 and offer 2 TB of additional space (the equivalent of at least 30 games!), This model SSD Portable reasonable price could be for you. On the one hand, it is rather nice with its black highlights / gray and is of practical size for transport, with its 11.8 x 8.2 x 2 cm. We also like its strength, due to its solid design, and nice finishes mattes. Only his weight around 300 grams would improve, but nothing serious.
It has a USB 3.0 interface which guarantees a maximum transfer rate of 5 Gbits / second, but it turns average 110MB / s which remains correct without being exceptional. To transfer large sets of PS4 to the external hard drive, it will be a bit of patience.
For use with PlayStation 4 (as it is compatible with PC, MAC and other consoles as well), simply connect it to the USB port of the console and wait for its detection. If ever this is not automatic, as is sometimes the case, it will be necessary to go through the PC to format the interface. Then reconnect it to the PS4 and voila.
This mobile storage system has a SafetyKey protection for your data security with a personal backup solution that allows easy recovery of data in case of trouble.
Seagate offers here a model of low-power external hard drive, enjoying a very good price / quality ratio. While not the fastest model in the market, it will be satisfactory for games transfers / data between your console and the SSD and apart from a slight noise recurring during transfers and a USB cable a little short, he does what he has been conceived !
Available in 2TB only.
Verdict – Maxtor external hard drive from Seagate is a choice more than adequate for smaller budgets, anxious to free up storage space on their PS4. Simple to use, solid and secure, it is a product cheap but reliable!
7. Portable SSD Ultra Slim Leideu – The thinnest external hard drives for PS4
Almost as compact as a simple USB key, external hard drive for PS4, PC, Xbox or MAC will delight fans of portable technology, and those who do not want to clutter their desk or TV stand in which is stored the PS4 additional hardware. It weighs barely more than 30 g, for a reduced size 10 x 3.3 x 0.8 cm. A true technology digest!
It’s not as long as it denies its performance, since it can through its USB Type-C and USB 3.0 compatibility (and also 2.0) offer a transfer rate of 5 Gb / s maximum . Therefore, downloads and backups will be as fast as you like.
This external hard drive for PS4 also stands out for its solid aluminum construction and is shockproof and fall. It is available in various colors such as silver version, black, blue, pink or red, to satisfy all users and it is anti fingerprints to remain flawless despite multiple manipulations. Among his good ideas, its auto-off feature when not used for 10 minutes helps prevent overheating and do not waste energy.
Even better, there is a disconcerting ease of use, thanks to its plug and play system; no software installation, no configuration required, simply plug it into the console via the supplied USB cable (45 cm) and wait for its detection, to use it. Finally, know that it is completely silent in use. A significant item when it is rotated at length.
If it does not have data protection system included, it is however guaranteed for 3 years. Reassuring!
Available in 1TB and 2TB.
Verdict – If you are looking for a lower external hard drive prices and ultrathin, this model of Leideu brand has everything to seduce you. Fast, light and functional, it is also relatively well finished. Ideal to expand your library of games PS4!
Buying Guide: everything you need to know about SSD Laptops for PlayStation 4
Find out how to choose the best external hard drive for PS4 with the essentials to consider for purchase.
Storage capacity
The basic storage space of the PS4 is 500 GB to 1 TB depending on the version of the console you own, and the big guys arrive quickly to saturation, especially with the 500 GB model. The capacity of the PS4 best external hard drive depends on the number of games you plan to install it, and your rate of purchase of new securities. Count on average 20-40 GB for classic games, 80 to 100 GB for the heaviest hits like Final Fantasy Remake or Red Dead Redemption.
SSD Laptops in this comparison are available in several versions, ranging from 250 GB to 8 TO. In it, it has no interest, and beyond, the PS4 will not be able to accept it. If you hesitate, it recommends external hard drives of 2TB (like the Samsung T5 model), which offer a good compromise for many hours of play!
Transfer speed
Other capital given when you choose your external hard drive for PS4, the speed at which data can be downloaded. The products in this selection offer all speeds (reading and writing) more than satisfactory, enabling fast large file transfers and playing games installed on it without latency.
Attention however to the specified maximum speed, which is not necessarily the one you enjoy on average.
Utilisation facility
Some discs will be formatted portable hard initially, which will require passage through a PC interface, while others require the installation of software to operate. If you are looking for simplicity, opt for the Plug and Play like that offers the Seagate Expansion model.
You will now simply plug the USB cable to the Playstation 4 and wait for the automatic detection of SSD, to use it!
Solidity
One of the biggest fears of the general external hard drive users is that of losing the data stored on it and it’s not trivial. In the past, the fragility of these aircraft was a single shock could make them unusable, and data recovery were not even possible!
The models are reinforced with time and technological advances but as it safe, choosing a hard drive as strong as possible. In this context, the best product is the USB-C Rugged proposed by Lacie.
The minimum for use in peace is that it is resistant to shocks and falls.
its dimensions
The size and weight will not be determining factors for choosing an external hard drive for PS4 but they can help to refine your decision. If you think you carry this SSD from your friends, take it with you while traveling or simply move in your home to use with different devices, then a late model, light will be more convenient.
The Ultra Slim model Leideu is the most compact of all!
warranty
It concerns two elements: the hard disk itself, which will be replaced or repaired by the manufacturer, and data recovery capabilities stored in case of malfunctions. It is not negligible !
The price of Portable SSD
The price of an external hard drive for PS4 depends on several factors, ranging from the manufacturer renowned for storage capacity for which you have chosen, through his overall performance. Depending on your budget, you can choose an available hard drive around 60 euros, for the models of 500 GB / 1 TB, or for models at rates between 100 and 200 euros for the storage capacity of 2 TB, 4 TO or more.
FAQ: it answers the questions that you have about external hard drives for PS4
An external hard drive for PS4 will not exceed € 200 if you choose models with more storage space. If you do not need a huge amount of memory, remember that you can acquire a good hard drive for 60-150 euros, which will be sufficient for the vast majority of players.
Beware of models less than 50 euros, which will often be disappointing in the data transfer speed of material and which sometimes show structural weaknesses that make them unreliable.
The PS4 games are becoming heavier as we approach the end of life of this console. Developers now have mastered the machine and are able to offer ever more substantial titles, most beautiful, most addictive … and more memory intensive.
If choosing the best external hard drive for the PS4 will depend on the game style you prefer (some mini games PSN weigh nothing!) And the number of shares of your virtual library, a hard drive of 2 TB seems to be the compromise perfect.
Often it’s the best quality / price!
All external hard drives are not compatible with the PS4! To be sure that the selected model works with the Sony console, check that:
Connect an external hard drive to a PS4 is a breeze! Either the SSD running Plug and Play will be automatically detected by the console, in which case you will have nothing else to do than to follow the formatting instructions (if necessary) that appear on the screen before the use, or it will go to the parameters of the Playstation 4.
You will find the heading USB storage devices, it will be enough to open to select the SSD you connected. Then you are free to move files from the external device console to ease the memory of the PS4 or choose the external SSD device as destinations for your future online downloads.
Formatting is essential for most external hard drive additions on PS4 and it is very easy to do! Go to the section USB storage devices and after selecting the device in question, choose Format as remote storage.
Quick and easy, you just keep in mind that this operation erases previously placed on the hard drive. If it was used before, remember to sort your files before formatting it.