So, you’re ready to fire up the PS4 for a long gaming session, only to be met with that dreaded message: “Not enough free space.” Ugh, deleting games is never fun, especially when it’s between your favorite RPG or that brand-new multiplayer you’ve been itching to try. Nobody wants to choose between the thrill of exploring vast worlds and the camaraderie of online battles. Freeing up space shouldn’t mean sacrificing your gaming experiences.
That’s where we come in! We’ve put together the ultimate guide to finding the best external hard drives for PS4, so you can expand your storage and keep all your games, saved data, and screenshots without the constant hassle of managing memory. We’ll walk you through the key features to consider, highlighting top-rated models and helping you choose the perfect external hard drive that fits your needs and budget. Get ready to say goodbye to storage anxiety and hello to endless gaming possibilities!
Before moving into the review of the best external hard drives for ps4, let’s check out some of the relevant products from Amazon:
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Running Out of Space? Level Up Your PS4 Storage!
Remember that feeling? The excitement of downloading a new game, only to be greeted by the dreaded “Not Enough Space” message? We’ve all been there, staring at our beloved PlayStation 4, forced to make the agonizing decision of which game to sacrifice to make room for the new one. It’s a gaming nightmare! But fear not, fellow gamers, because there’s a simple and effective solution that doesn’t involve deleting your precious save data or losing your high scores.
The answer? An external hard drive! Think of it as giving your PS4 a storage upgrade, a digital booster shot that frees you from the tyranny of limited space. It’s a game-changer, allowing you to keep all your games, DLC, and saves readily available without the constant juggling act. And you’ll be surprised how many gamers have already jumped on the external storage bandwagon! Some studies suggest that nearly 60% of PS4 owners have considered or already use an external drive to supplement their console’s internal storage.
Finding the best external hard drives for PS4 isn’t always straightforward, though. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming trying to decipher the technical jargon and figure out which drive is the right fit for your gaming needs and budget. That’s where we come in!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the perfect external hard drive for your PS4. We’ll break down the important factors like storage capacity, speed, compatibility, and reliability, and give you our top picks for the best external hard drives for PS4 currently on the market. Get ready to say goodbye to storage woes and hello to uninterrupted gaming bliss!
5 Best External Hard Drives For Ps4
Seagate Game Drive 2TB
Looking to banish that dreaded “storage full” notification from your PS4 forever? The Seagate Game Drive is a fantastic solution. This sleek and compact drive offers a generous 2TB of space, allowing you to download a ton of games, DLC, and save files without constantly deleting older titles. Plus, it’s officially licensed by PlayStation, so you know it’s specifically designed to work flawlessly with your console. Set-up is a breeze – just plug it in, follow the on-screen instructions, and you’re ready to rock.
Beyond the ample storage, the Seagate Game Drive also helps with game loading times. While it won’t transform your PS4 into a PS5, you may notice a slight improvement, especially with larger, more demanding games. The portability is a bonus too; you can easily take your game library to a friend’s house for some couch co-op action. Overall, it’s a reliable and cost-effective way to expand your PS4’s horizons.
WD Black P10 Game Drive 2TB
The WD Black P10 Game Drive is a serious contender for the best external hard drive for your PS4. This rugged drive isn’t just about expanding your storage; it’s about delivering a performance boost too. Designed with gamers in mind, it boasts faster read and write speeds compared to standard external drives, potentially leading to quicker game loading and reduced in-game lag. The durable metal casing is a nice touch, giving it a premium feel and offering added protection against bumps and bruises.
With 2TB of storage, you’ll have plenty of room for your growing game collection. Setting it up is super simple, taking just a couple of minutes. Just plug it into your PS4, format the drive, and start downloading. If you’re looking for an external drive that offers both reliability and a bit of extra oomph, the WD Black P10 is definitely worth considering.
Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB
If you’re seeking a straightforward and affordable way to boost your PS4’s storage, the Toshiba Canvio Basics 2TB is an excellent choice. This no-frills external hard drive provides a significant amount of extra space for your games, DLC, and saved data, without breaking the bank. It’s a simple, reliable solution for those tired of constantly managing their storage space.
The Toshiba Canvio Basics is incredibly easy to use. There’s no complicated software to install or configurations to worry about. Just plug it into your PS4’s USB port, follow the on-screen prompts to format it, and you’re good to go. While it might not offer the blazing-fast speeds of some more expensive drives, it gets the job done reliably and efficiently.
Samsung T7 Shield 1TB
The Samsung T7 Shield isn’t just an external hard drive; it’s a portable powerhouse designed to withstand the rigors of life. This compact SSD offers blazing-fast transfer speeds, which could translate to noticeably quicker loading times on your PS4. The ruggedized design, with its IP65 rating for water and dust resistance, means you don’t have to baby it. Throw it in your bag, and it’s ready for anything.
While the 1TB capacity might not be as large as some other options, the speed and durability make it a compelling choice. Setting it up is a piece of cake; simply plug it into your PS4’s USB port and follow the on-screen instructions. If you prioritize speed, portability, and ruggedness, the Samsung T7 Shield is a top-tier contender.
Seagate Portable 4TB
Running out of room for your PS4 games? The Seagate Portable 4TB could be exactly what you need. Offering a massive amount of storage space, this external hard drive lets you download countless games, add-ons, and saved files without having to worry about deleting your old favorites. It’s a simple, efficient way to future-proof your PS4 gaming experience.
This drive is incredibly easy to use and set up. Simply plug it into your PS4’s USB port, format the drive, and you’re ready to start downloading. It’s a great option if you want to prioritize a large storage capacity without breaking the bank, making it perfect for gamers with extensive digital libraries.
Why Do Gamers Need External Hard Drives for PS4?
Imagine you’re about to dive into a brand new, highly anticipated game, but your PS4 screen flashes the dreaded “Not enough free space” message. Frustrating, right? This is a common scenario for many PS4 gamers. The console’s internal storage, especially on older models, fills up quickly with game installations, patches, downloadable content, and saved game data. Constantly deleting and reinstalling games just to make room becomes tedious and time-consuming, disrupting your precious gaming time.
An external hard drive acts as a lifesaver, providing a significant boost to your PS4’s storage capacity. Think of it as adding an extra room to your house, specifically for your games. You can transfer installed games to the external drive, freeing up space on your internal drive for new downloads and ensuring smooth performance. No more agonizing decisions about which games to sacrifice! This also avoids needing to re-download games when you want to play them.
Choosing one of the ‘best external hard drives for ps4’ ensures optimal performance. These drives are specifically designed for gaming, offering fast transfer speeds that reduce loading times and prevent lag. Imagine transitioning seamlessly between game worlds without frustrating delays! Furthermore, you’ll have the freedom to explore more games, download all the latest DLC, and keep your entire gaming library readily available.
Investing in an external hard drive is an investment in your gaming experience. It eliminates the stress of storage management, allows you to enjoy a wider range of games, and improves overall performance. Free yourself from storage limitations and unlock the full potential of your PS4 with the extra space and speed offered by one of the ‘best external hard drives for ps4’. It’s a simple upgrade that can dramatically enhance your gaming enjoyment.
Troubleshooting Common External Hard Drive Issues on PS4
So, you’ve got your external hard drive hooked up to your PS4, and things aren’t exactly smooth sailing? Don’t panic! It’s a common scenario. Maybe your PS4 isn’t recognizing the drive at all, or perhaps it’s intermittently disconnecting, causing frustrating pauses in your gameplay. These hiccups can be incredibly annoying, especially when you’re in the middle of a crucial boss fight or a nail-biting online match.
One frequent issue is incorrect formatting. Your PS4 needs the drive formatted to the exFAT file system to work correctly. If it’s formatted differently (like NTFS, which is common for Windows PCs), the PS4 simply won’t recognize it. Imagine plugging in your brand new drive, all excited to download the latest AAA title, only to be met with a blank screen. It’s like showing up to a party and realizing you’re at the wrong address!
Another culprit could be a faulty USB cable or a damaged USB port on either your PS4 or the external hard drive enclosure. Try a different cable, and also test all the USB ports on your console. A loose connection can cause intermittent disconnections, which can corrupt game data and force you to re-download everything. Picture it as a wobbly bridge that collapses halfway across!
Finally, remember to properly eject the external hard drive through the PS4’s system menu before physically disconnecting it. Abruptly unplugging the drive can lead to data corruption, rendering your games unplayable. Think of it as yanking the power cord from a computer mid-operation; it’s never a good idea. Treat your external hard drive with care to prevent headaches down the line.
Optimizing Performance: Speed and Storage Strategies
Okay, so you’ve got the basics covered, but you want to squeeze every last drop of performance out of your external hard drive on your PS4? This is where things get interesting. The type of hard drive you choose, along with how you manage your storage, can significantly impact loading times and overall gaming experience.
Consider the speed of your drive. While the PS4 can work with both traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and Solid State Drives (SSDs), SSDs offer a substantial advantage in terms of speed. Imagine launching a game like “Red Dead Redemption 2.” On an HDD, you might be waiting for a minute or two for the game to fully load. With an SSD, that time could be cut in half, allowing you to jump into the action almost instantly.
Storage management is also key. Regularly deleting games you no longer play can free up space and potentially improve performance. The PS4’s operating system can sometimes slow down when the hard drive is nearing its capacity. It’s like trying to navigate a crowded city street; the more space you have, the smoother the flow.
Lastly, think about prioritizing the games you play the most. If you have a faster external SSD, consider storing your most frequently played titles on it. This will ensure the quickest loading times for the games you’re actively enjoying. Think of it like reserving the best parking spot for the car you use every day. A little planning goes a long way!
Choosing the Right Size: How Much Storage Do You Really Need?
Deciding on the right storage capacity for your external hard drive is crucial, but it can be a bit of a guessing game. You don’t want to buy a drive that’s too small and constantly have to delete games, but you also don’t want to overspend on a massive drive you’ll never fully utilize. So, how do you find that sweet spot?
Start by assessing your gaming habits. Are you a casual gamer who only plays a few titles at a time, or are you a hardcore collector with a vast digital library? If you tend to focus on one or two games and rarely revisit older titles, a 1TB or 2TB drive might be sufficient. Imagine you’re building a bookshelf for your favorite books. Do you need a huge library-sized shelf, or just a small one for the novels you’re currently reading?
Keep in mind the ever-increasing size of modern games. AAA titles like “Call of Duty” and “Cyberpunk 2077” can easily take up 100GB or more of storage space. If you plan on downloading a lot of these large games, you’ll definitely want to opt for a larger capacity drive, such as 4TB or even 8TB. It’s like packing for a long trip; you need to consider all the potential outfits and gear you might need.
Ultimately, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose a slightly larger drive than you think you’ll need. You never know when a new game will catch your eye, or when you’ll decide to revisit an old favorite. Plus, having extra storage space gives you the freedom to download demos and try out new games without having to constantly worry about deleting existing content. Think of it as having a bit of extra room in your suitcase, just in case you find some souvenirs along the way.
Future-Proofing: Selecting an External Hard Drive for the PS5 Era
While you’re buying an external hard drive primarily for your PS4 now, it’s wise to consider its compatibility and potential use with the PS5 in the future. Although the PS5’s internal storage is limited, external hard drives still play a crucial role in managing your game library. Planning ahead can save you money and hassle down the road.
One key consideration is the connection interface. The PS5 utilizes USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, which offer significantly faster transfer speeds than the PS4’s USB 3.0 ports. Choosing an external hard drive with USB 3.2 Gen 1 (formerly USB 3.0) ensures it will work seamlessly with both consoles. Think of it like buying a universal adapter for your electronics; it works with multiple devices and power outlets.
While you can’t play PS5 games directly from an external hard drive (due to the PS5’s reliance on its ultra-fast internal SSD for optimal performance), you can store PS4 games on an external drive and play them on your PS5. This is a great way to free up valuable space on the PS5’s internal SSD for PS5-exclusive titles. It’s like having a guest room; you can accommodate visitors without crowding your main living space.
Finally, consider the durability and reliability of the external hard drive. Investing in a well-built drive from a reputable brand will not only protect your data but also ensure it lasts for years to come. This is especially important if you plan on using the drive with both your PS4 and PS5. Think of it as investing in a high-quality backpack that can withstand the rigors of travel; it’s worth the extra cost in the long run.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best External Hard Drives for PS4
Hey there, fellow gamer! Running out of space on your PS4? We’ve all been there. That dreaded notification pops up, telling you that you can’t download the latest epic adventure or even save your progress. It’s a digital gamer’s nightmare! But don’t despair, because there’s a simple and effective solution: an external hard drive. Picking the right one can feel overwhelming, so let’s cut through the jargon and get you equipped with the knowledge to find the best external hard drives for PS4. This guide is designed to be your friendly companion in navigating the world of external storage. Think of it as chatting with a knowledgeable buddy who wants you to have the absolute best gaming experience possible!
Storage Capacity: How Much is Enough?
First things first, let’s talk about space. This is arguably the most important factor. It’s tempting to go for the biggest drive you can afford, and honestly, that’s not a bad strategy. Think about how many games you typically have installed at once. AAA titles are notorious for their massive file sizes – we’re talking 50GB to over 100GB per game! Even if you mainly play smaller indie games, they can quickly add up. Consider also how frequently you download new games or re-install old favorites.
A good rule of thumb is to estimate the total storage you currently use on your PS4 and then double it (or even triple it!) for your external drive. A 1TB drive is a solid starting point, but if you’re a hardcore gamer with a large library, a 2TB or even a 4TB drive might be a better investment. Remember, it’s always better to have too much space than not enough. Nobody wants to be constantly deleting games to make room for new ones!
Drive Type: HDD vs. SSD – The Speed Difference
Now, let’s get a little technical, but I promise to keep it simple. You’ll encounter two main types of external drives: HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive). HDD’s are the more traditional type, using spinning disks to store data. SSDs, on the other hand, use flash memory, similar to what’s in your phone or USB drive.
The key difference here is speed. SSDs are significantly faster than HDDs. This translates to quicker game loading times, faster texture loading, and overall smoother gameplay. However, SSDs are also considerably more expensive per gigabyte than HDDs. So, while an SSD will offer a noticeable performance boost, it might not be the most cost-effective option if you’re on a tight budget and need a lot of storage. When it comes to the best external hard drives for PS4, SSDs are definitely the premium choice.
USB Connection: USB 3.0 is a Must!
Alright, this one’s crucial for ensuring your external drive actually works properly with your PS4. You absolutely need to make sure the drive supports USB 3.0 (or USB 3.1 or USB 3.2 – they’re all essentially the same thing for our purposes). USB 3.0 offers significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to the older USB 2.0 standard.
If you connect a USB 2.0 drive to your PS4, you’ll likely experience slow loading times and potentially even performance issues. The PS4 itself has USB 3.0 ports, so using a drive that supports this standard is essential to take full advantage of the increased speed. Always double-check the product specifications to confirm USB 3.0 compatibility before making a purchase. It’s a non-negotiable requirement for the best external hard drives for PS4.
Form Factor and Portability: How Important is Size?
Think about where you’ll be using your external drive. If it’s going to be permanently connected to your PS4 at home, then the size and portability might not be a huge concern. You can opt for a larger, more robust desktop drive that typically offers more storage capacity for the price.
However, if you plan on taking your external drive on the go – perhaps to a friend’s house for a gaming session – then a smaller, more portable drive is the way to go. These drives are typically bus-powered, meaning they draw power directly from the USB port, eliminating the need for a separate power adapter. Compact and light models are ideal for travel. This aspect might not be the most crucial for the best external hard drives for PS4, but think about your individual situation.
Durability and Build Quality: Protecting Your Data
This is where thinking long-term comes into play. You want an external drive that can withstand the rigors of everyday use. Look for drives that are encased in sturdy materials, such as aluminum or reinforced plastic. Some drives are even designed to be shockproof and water-resistant, which is a great feature if you’re prone to accidents.
Pay attention to the reviews and see what other users have to say about the drive’s durability. A drive that feels flimsy or poorly constructed is more likely to fail, potentially leading to data loss. Protecting your precious game saves and downloaded content should be a top priority, so don’t skimp on build quality. Considering durability will ensure you are using some of the best external hard drives for PS4 for years to come.
Power Source: Bus-Powered vs. External Power
As mentioned earlier, external drives can be either bus-powered or require an external power source. Bus-powered drives are powered directly from the USB port on your PS4, making them more convenient and portable. This is generally preferred.
However, some larger-capacity drives may require an external power adapter to function properly. These drives are typically designed for desktop use and are not as portable. Make sure your PS4 can provide enough power to the drive, especially if you’re using a USB hub. Always confirm whether the drive requires an external power adapter before you buy, especially if portability is important to you. Keep in mind that most models marketed as the best external hard drives for PS4 will be bus-powered.
Price and Value: Getting the Most for Your Money
Finally, let’s talk about budget. External hard drive prices can vary widely depending on the capacity, type, and brand. Before you start shopping, determine how much you’re willing to spend. Don’t just go for the cheapest option – consider the factors we’ve discussed above, such as speed, durability, and capacity, to find the best value for your money.
Compare prices from different retailers and look for sales or discounts. Remember that an SSD will cost more per gigabyte than an HDD, but the performance boost may be worth the extra investment. Read reviews and compare specifications to make an informed decision. Investing in a well-reviewed external drive from a reputable brand will ultimately save you money and headaches in the long run. Finding the perfect balance of these factors will lead you to one of the best external hard drives for PS4 that fits both your budget and your gaming needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need an external hard drive for my PS4?
Your PS4 comes with a built-in hard drive, but let’s face it, games these days are HUGE! You can fill that space up quicker than you think, especially if you’re downloading games from PlayStation Plus or buying digitally. An external hard drive basically gives you more room to breathe, allowing you to download more games, store saved data, and keep your precious screenshots and video clips without having to constantly delete stuff.
Think of it like this: your PS4 is your apartment, and the internal hard drive is your closet. An external hard drive is like renting a storage unit. You can keep all your extra belongings (games!) organized and easily accessible without cluttering up your living space. It’s a super simple and affordable way to expand your PS4’s capabilities.
What size external hard drive should I get for my PS4?
This really depends on your gaming habits! If you only play a few games and primarily use physical discs, a 1TB drive might be sufficient. However, if you’re a heavy downloader, subscribe to PlayStation Plus, or like to keep a large library of games on hand, you’ll definitely want to consider a larger capacity drive like 2TB or even 4TB.
A good rule of thumb is to overestimate a little. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can fill up storage, especially with new games being released all the time! Plus, larger drives often offer better value per gigabyte, so you might actually save money in the long run.
What kind of external hard drive is compatible with my PS4?
The PS4 is pretty straightforward when it comes to external hard drive compatibility. You need a USB 3.0 external hard drive that’s between 250GB and 8TB in size. That’s pretty much it! Don’t worry too much about fancy features or specifications. The PS4 is designed to work seamlessly with most standard external drives.
However, it’s always a good idea to check the product description of the drive you’re considering just to be absolutely sure it meets these requirements. You’ll also want to make sure the drive has its own power source or is bus-powered (powered by the USB connection). Most external drives designed for gaming will be bus-powered.
How do I set up an external hard drive on my PS4?
Setting up an external hard drive on your PS4 is surprisingly easy! First, plug the drive into one of the USB ports on your PS4. Then, go to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices. Your PS4 should automatically detect the drive. Simply select it and choose “Format as Extended Storage.”
The PS4 will guide you through the formatting process, which will erase everything on the drive, so make sure you’ve backed up any important data beforehand! Once formatted, you can choose to install new games and applications directly onto the external drive. You can also transfer games from your internal storage to the external drive to free up space.
Will using an external hard drive slow down my PS4?
Generally, no, using an external hard drive shouldn’t significantly slow down your PS4, especially if you’re using a USB 3.0 drive. USB 3.0 offers fast data transfer speeds, which should be more than adequate for gaming. In some cases, you might even see slightly faster loading times compared to the internal drive, especially if your internal drive is getting full.
That being said, the speed of the external hard drive itself can play a role. A solid-state drive (SSD) will be significantly faster than a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), but also more expensive. For most gamers, a good quality HDD will provide a noticeable improvement in storage space without a significant performance hit.
Can I use the same external hard drive for both my PS4 and my computer?
Unfortunately, no, you can’t easily use the same external hard drive for both your PS4 and your computer without reformatting it. When you format the drive as extended storage for your PS4, it essentially dedicates the entire drive to the console. The PS4 uses its own file system, which is different from what your computer uses (like Windows or macOS).
So, if you try to plug the formatted drive into your computer, it likely won’t recognize it or it might ask you to format it, which would erase all the data stored on it. If you need a drive to be shared between devices, it’s best to use a separate drive specifically for that purpose.
Are solid-state drives (SSDs) worth the extra cost for a PS4 external hard drive?
SSDs definitely offer a performance boost over traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). You’ll see faster loading times, quicker game installations, and potentially smoother overall gameplay. If you’re someone who values speed and doesn’t mind paying a premium, an SSD is definitely a worthwhile upgrade.
However, SSDs are generally more expensive than HDDs per gigabyte. So, you might have to compromise on storage capacity to stay within your budget. For many gamers, the increase in speed might not justify the extra cost, especially if they’re primarily looking to expand their storage capacity. A good quality HDD still provides a great experience and is a more cost-effective option.
Verdict
Alright, now you’re armed with the knowledge to seriously level up your PS4 gaming experience! You’ve seen some seriously impressive contenders for the title of ‘best external hard drives for PS4’, each offering a unique blend of speed, capacity, and price. No more agonizing over which games to delete before downloading that shiny new AAA title. Imagine the sheer freedom of having your entire library at your fingertips, ready to launch at a moment’s notice. Go forth and conquer those digital worlds, knowing you’ve got the storage space to handle anything they throw your way!
Think of this not just as buying a hard drive, but as investing in your gaming future. It’s about removing limitations and embracing the full potential of your PS4. With one of these amazing options, you’re not just getting more storage; you’re unlocking a smoother, faster, and far more enjoyable gaming experience. Trust your gut, choose the drive that speaks to you, and get ready to game on like never before! The power to expand your gaming universe is literally in your hands.