Expanding your PS4’s storage is essential for any avid gamer. Games, updates, and downloadable content consume space quickly. Therefore, having the right external hard drive is crucial. In this guide, I will explore the best external hard drives for PS4. We’ll focus on performance, reliability, and value. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, we’ll help you find the perfect storage solution. This will keep your game library well-managed and accessible. When buying a PS4 external hard drive, the below features are worth considering:
- Storage Capacity: Modern games can take up to 40GB to over 100GB per game. For serious gamers, a drive of at least 2TB is advisable. This allows you to store up to 50 large games without constantly deleting old ones to make room for new ones.
- Transfer Speeds: A faster drive reduces the time you spend waiting for games to load and updates to install. Look for drives that offer SSD performance with speeds of at least 400 MB/s. This ensures a smoother gaming experience.
- USB Interface Compatibility: The PS4 supports USB 3.0. Choose a drive that maximizes this connection for faster data transfers and better reliability. Always check that the drive is PS4-compatible to avoid connectivity issues.
This article covers the top PS4 External Hard Drives, detailing their pros and cons. A “Buying Guide” is included to help you make an informed decision. Read to the end.
Best PS4 External Hard Drives: Table
| PS4 External Hard Drive | Storage Capacity | USB Interface | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Digital PS4 External Hard Drive | 2 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
| Seagate PS4 External Hard Drive | 2 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
| TOSHIBA PS4 External Hard Drive | 2 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
| Maxone PS4 External Hard | 1 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
| UnionSine PS4 External Hard Drive | 1 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
| WD_BLACK PS4 External Hard Drive | 5 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
| Seagate Game Drive PS4 External Hard Drive | 4 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
| MegaZ PS4 External Hard Drive | 1 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
| Avolusion PS4 External Hard Drive | 1 TB | USB 3.0 | Check On Amazon |
Best PS4 External Hard Drives Reviews
1. Western Digital PS4 External Hard Drive
The Western Digital PS4 External Hard Drive offers high storage space. It comes in sizes up to 6TB, ideal for gamers who need more space without losing performance. The SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface allows fast data transfers up to 5Gbps, making it useful for both PS4 and PCs.
Its plug-and-play feature, which doesn’t require extra software, makes it easy to use. This drive works with PCs and Macs too, but Mac users might need to reformat it. While it’s pricier than some other options, its reliability and large storage make it worth the cost, especially for serious gamers with big game libraries.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: Up to 6TB
- Interface: USB 2.0/3.0
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Form Factor: 3.5 Inches
- Installation Type: External
- Compatible Devices: Desktop, Laptop, Gaming Console
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps) support
Pros:
- High storage capacity allows for extensive media and game storage.
- Plug-and-play ease of use simplifies the setup process.
- Compatible with multiple devices, enhancing versatility.
- Portable and durable design suitable for on-the-go use.
Cons:
- No built-in encryption for added security.
2. Seagate PS4 External Hard Drive
The Seagate PS4 External Hard Drive is designed for PS4 gamers, offering 2TB of storage. This capacity is ideal for storing games, expansions, and media, ensuring you never have to delete anything from your console.
With USB 3.0 technology, file transfers are fast and seamless. Whether you’re backing up game data or transferring large media files, the drive handles it efficiently without lag.
The sleek black design matches most gaming setups, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetics. It’s incredibly portable, making it easy to take your game library to a friend’s house. The hard drive requires no external power source, enhancing its ease of use.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: Up to 5TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
- Form Factor: 3.5 Inches
- Compatible Devices: Laptop, Desktop
- Installation Type: Plug-In
- Included 18-inch USB 3.0 cable
Pros:
- Large storage capacity accommodates extensive game libraries.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Drag-and-drop functionality for straightforward file management.
- Compatible with both Windows and Mac after reformatting.
Cons:
- Some users report durability issues over extended use.
3. TOSHIBA PS4 External Hard Drive
The Toshiba PS4 External Hard Drive features a sleek matte finish that resists smudges and fingerprints, adding style to any gaming setup.. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry. With up to 4TB of storage, it provides plenty of space for games and media files.
The drive is compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, offering quick plug-and-play functionality without needing an external AC power source. This simplifies its use across different gaming and computing platforms.
While it excels in portability and ease of use, the Toshiba drive could benefit from faster data transfer speeds. Still, for gamers who want a stylish, reliable, and spacious hard drive, this is an excellent choice.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: Up to 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Form Factor: 2.5 Inches
- Compatible Devices: Laptop, Desktop
- Installation Type: External
- Pre-formatted for Windows
- Reformatting required for Mac use
Pros:
- Ultra-portable design is ideal for mobile gaming setups.
- Durable build quality.
- Stylish matte finish that resists fingerprints.
Cons:
- Requires reformatting for Mac, adding an extra step for some users.
4. Maxone PS4 External Hard Drive
The Maxone PS4 External Hard Drive offers solid performance and an ultra-slim metal design. This drive is both functional and stylish. It has a cooling system that ensures stable and fast performance, which is essential for gaming on PS4 and Xbox One. The aluminum anti-scratch enclosure enhances durability and keeps the drive cool during extended gaming sessions.
With USB 3.0 technology, the Maxone drive supports transfer speeds up to 5 Gbit/s, reducing file transfer times significantly. It is formatted as exFAT, ready to use with Windows and Mac without reformatting.
The main limitation is its capacity, which is up to 2TB. This is lower than some competitors and may concern users with extensive game libraries. Despite this, its portability and design make it an excellent choice for gamers who value style and speed.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: Up to 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Special Feature: Ultra Slim, All-Aluminum
- Form Factor: Slim Metal
- Compatible Devices: PS4, Xbox, PC
- Installation Type: External
Pros:
- No need for external power supplies simplifies setup.
- An effective cooling system maintains performance stability.
- Preformatted for immediate use with multiple systems.
Cons:
- Some users may find the metal body too slick for comfortable handling.
5. UnionSine PS4 External Hard Drive
The UnionSine PS4 External Hard Drive is a Double anti-interference feature that ensures stable, fast data transfers. It offers up to 1TB of storage, perfect for a good collection of games and data. Its upgraded cable with an aluminum anti-interference layer ensures stable and fast data transfers without interference.
The drive is ultra-thin and quiet, fitting easily into a pocket or gaming bag. It uses USB 3.0 connectivity for fast data transfers, improving file access and backup times. The double anti-interference feature ensures consistent performance.
However, the 1TB capacity might be too small for users with large digital libraries. Despite this, its reliability and data protection features make it a good choice for those who value stability and data integrity in their gaming accessories.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: Up to 1TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Special Feature: Double anti-interference, Portable
- Form Factor: 2.5 Inches
- Compatible Devices: PS4, Xbox, PC, Mac
- Installation Type: External
- Ultra-Fast Data Transfers up to 125MB/s read speed
Pros:
- Portable and ultra-thin design for easy mobility.
- Advanced cable technology minimizes interference.
- Reliable performance with robust build quality.
- Compatible across multiple platforms for versatile use.
Cons:
- Lacks advanced security features like encryption.
6. WD_BLACK PS4 External Hard Drive
The WD_BLACK PS4 External Hard Drive is designed for professional gamers, offering up to 5TB of storage for an impressive number of games. Its sleek metal top cover enhances both aesthetic appeal and durability. With speeds up to 130MB/s, it provides quick access to your game library and significantly reduces load times.
Compatible with PlayStation and Xbox consoles, it allows you to play and store PS4 games and archive PS5 games. Its compact design makes it easy to carry your game library wherever you go.
The 3-year limited warranty underscores its reliability. While primarily aimed at console gamers, it’s equally functional with PC setups, ensuring versatility across gaming platforms.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: Up to 5TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Special Feature: Portable, High-Performance
- Form Factor: 2.5 Inches
- Compatible Devices: Laptop, Gaming Console, Desktop
- Speeds up to 130MB/s
Pros:
- High-speed data transfer enhances gaming performance.
- Durable and stylish metal design.
- Versatile compatibility with consoles and PCs.
Cons:
- Speeds may vary based on the host device and usage conditions.
7. Seagate Game PS4 External Hard Drive
The Seagate Game Drive for PS4 is designed for PS4 with a sleek, game-themed design. It offers 4TB of storage, letting you store over 100 games. This means you don’t have to delete old games to make space for new ones. It has plug-and-play USB 3.0 connectivity, making setup quick and easy without needing an extra power supply.
The drive is optimized for PlayStation consoles, making it great for both casual and hardcore gamers. Its design matches PS4 aesthetics with a sleek black-and-blue look that fits well with your gaming setup.
While it offers great speed and storage, some users have found the drive sensitive to physical shocks. There have also been occasional reports of failures after long-term use. Despite these issues, its portability, ease of use, and large capacity make it a top choice for PS4 owners.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Connectivity Technology: USB, Wi-Fi
- Special Feature: Portable, Designed for PS4
- Form Factor: 2.5 Inches
- Compatible Devices: Gaming Console
- Installation Type: Plug-In
Pros:
- High storage capacity is ideal for extensive gaming collections.
- No power cable needed
- Easy setup with plug-and-play functionality.
- Compact design.
Cons:
- Some reports of durability issues over time.
8. MegaZ PS4 External Hard Drive
The MegaZ PS4 External Hard Drive is a sturdy and compact design. With a USB 3.0 interface, it offers ultra-fast data transfers, boosting PC performance. Its latest model features a slim, handy-sized design, making it very portable.
With up to 1TB of storage, it provides enough space for moderate gamers to manage their game libraries without frequent deletions. The plug-and-play feature means no software installation is needed, simplifying the setup process.
However, it has less storage capacity compared to high-end models, and there are some concerns about long-term reliability. Despite these issues, its compatibility with various devices, including PS4 and Xbox One, makes it a versatile choice for casual gamers.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: Up to 1TB
- Interface: USB 2.0/3.0
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Form Factor: 2 Inches
- Compatible Devices: Laptop, Gaming Console, Desktop
- Installation Type: External
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Affordable pricing for budget-conscious gamers.
- Compatible with multiple platforms, enhancing its versatility.
Cons:
- The potential need for reformatting certain operating systems.
9. Avolusion PS4 External Hard Drive
The Avolusion PS4 External Hard Drive is an affordable storage solution. It offers 1TB of storage, enough for a good-sized game library without frequent management. The drive is ready to use right out of the box with its plug-and-play functionality, pre-formatted for the PS4.
Its slim, lightweight design makes it ideal for gamers on the go, fitting easily into any gaming setup. With USB 3.0 connectivity, files transfer quickly and gameplay stays smooth. It’s also compatible with USB 2.0, allowing use with older hardware.
While the 1TB capacity may be limiting for gamers with large digital collections, its reliability and ease of use make it a great choice for most gamers.
Specifications:
- Storage Capacity: 1TB
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Special Feature: Backward Compatible
- Form Factor: 2.5 Inches
- Compatible Devices: Gaming Console
- Installation Type: Plug-In
Pros:
- Ultra Slim & Lightweight design
- Durable design suitable for regular use.
- No external power supply is required
Cons:
- Lacks encryption and other advanced security features.
- Some users might find the speed inadequate for very large file transfers.
Buying Guide For The Best PS4 External Hard Drive
When choosing the best external hard drive for your PS4, consider several key factors. This guide will explain these factors, helping you pick a drive that boosts your gaming experience with more storage and faster load times.
1. Storage Capacity
- Assess Your Needs: External hard drive capacity determines how much data you can store. For PS4, this includes games, apps, screenshots, and videos. Basic drives start at 500GB, but since games often exceed 50GB, a 1TB or 2TB drive is more practical.
- Future-Proofing: Choosing a larger capacity, like 2TB or 4TB, can save money in the long run. It offers ample space for future game releases and updates without constant file management.
2. Transfer Speed
- Speed Requirements: PS4 consoles need a minimum transfer speed to work efficiently with external drives, usually USB 3.0 or faster. This ensures shorter loading times and smoother gameplay.
- High Performance: Consider drives with high read and write speeds, especially SSDs. They reduce game loading times significantly compared to traditional HDDs.
3. Compatibility
- PS4 Requirements: Ensure the hard drive is compatible with PS4. It should support USB 3.0 and be capable of being formatted to exFAT.
- Plug-And-Play: Choose drives that are easy to install and set up with your PS4 for immediate use.
4. Security
- Data Protection: If storing sensitive data or game progress, look for drives with built-in encryption and password protection.
- Secure Access: Drives with hardware encryption offer better security against unauthorized access than software-based encryption.
5. Durability And Portability
- Build Quality: Select a hard drive designed to withstand wear and tear, especially if you travel or attend gaming sessions outside your home.
- Compact And Lightweight: For gamers on the go, a lightweight and compact drive is essential. It makes transportation easier without sacrificing performance or storage capacity.
6. Additional Features
- Backup Solutions: Some external hard drives come with software for automatic backups, ensuring your data is always safe.
- Software Utilities: Look for drives with useful utilities for drive management, like encryption tools and health monitors, to maintain optimal performance.
FAQs:
Any USB 3.0 external hard drive (HDD or SSD) will work with your PS4. However, SSDs offer faster loading times, while HDDs are typically more affordable for larger storage capacities.
Yes, you can use your PS4 external hard drive with other devices, but you might need to reformat it to be compatible with different file systems.
PS4s come with limited internal storage. An external hard drive provides extra space to store games, saving you from constant game deletion and re-installation.
Yes, but you need to create separate partitions because the PS4 will format the drive for game data storage, which doesn’t allow media storage on the same partition.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PS4 with an external hard drive isn’t just about adding storage it’s about boosting your gaming experience. The right drive lets you store more games and enjoy faster load times and smoother gameplay. Whether you’re a casual or hardcore gamer, choosing a reliable and fast external hard drive ensures uninterrupted gameplay and long-term satisfaction.
Here are the top three recommendations:
- Avolusion PS4 External Hard Drive: Budget-friendly storage solution with up to 1TB capacity and easy plug-and-play setup. Ideal for gamers looking for affordable, reliable, and portable external storage for their PS4.
- Western Digital PS4 External Hard Drive: Expandable up to 6TB, this drive provides extensive storage and fast USB 3.0 transfer speeds. Its portable design and broad compatibility make it a versatile option for gamers and professionals.
- With up to 5TB of storage and gaming-optimized performance, the WD_BLACK External Hard Drive is ideal for serious gamers needing reliable and high-capacity storage. Its durable design and fast transfer speeds make it perfect for storing and playing a vast game library.
