The PS4 Pro is still a favorite for many gamers, even in the age of the PlayStation 5. But one of the biggest frustrations with the PS4 Pro is its slow loading times. If you’ve ever sat waiting for a game to load or a level to restart, you know how it feels. The good news is that you can give your console a huge boost in speed by replacing its hard drive with a solid-state drive (SSD).
Upgrading to an SSD won’t magically make the PS4 Pro perform like a PS5, but it will significantly reduce loading screens, improve responsiveness, and even make game installations faster. In this guide, we’ll walk through the benefits of upgrading, what to look for when buying an SSD, and which options are best for your PS4 Pro.
Why Upgrade to an SSD for Your PS4 Pro?
The standard PS4 Pro ships with a traditional hard disk drive (HDD). While functional, HDDs rely on spinning parts, which means they are slower and more prone to wear over time. An SSD, on the other hand, uses flash memory to deliver lightning-fast read and write speeds.
Here’s what an SSD upgrade gives you:
- Shorter Loading Screens: Games boot faster and levels load more smoothly.
- Better Responsiveness: Menus, apps, and system navigation feel snappier.
- Improved Game Installs: Updates and installs are completed in less time.
- Longer Console Life: SSDs are more durable than mechanical drives.
If you’ve been frustrated with slow performance, an SSD upgrade is one of the best ways to keep your PS4 Pro relevant for years to come.
Choosing the Best SSD for PS4 Pro
Not every SSD is built the same. Before buying, consider these key factors:
- Storage Size – 500GB is enough for casual players, but if you play big AAA titles, 1TB or 2TB is much better.
- Form Factor – The PS4 Pro uses a 2.5-inch SATA drive, so make sure your SSD matches.
- Speed Ratings – Look for read/write speeds above 500MB/s to see noticeable improvements.
- Budget vs Performance – Premium SSDs are faster, but even mid-range drives will outperform your stock HDD.
Best SSD Options for PS4 Pro
Here are some of the top choices gamers often recommend for upgrading:
1. Samsung 870 EVO
One of the most reliable SSDs on the market. Known for speed and durability, the Samsung 870 EVO is a solid pick if you want smooth performance and long-term stability.
2. Crucial MX500
A budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent read and write speeds. Perfect if you want great performance without spending too much.
3. WD Blue 3D NAND
Western Digital’s WD Blue SSD offers a balance between affordability and consistent performance. Great for those upgrading from the stock HDD for the first time.
4. Seagate Barracuda SSD
Seagate’s Barracuda SSD combines strong performance with wide availability. It’s a dependable option with a variety of storage sizes.
5. SanDisk Ultra 3D SSD
SanDisk delivers a reliable, efficient drive that’s perfect for the PS4 Pro. It’s also widely available and often priced competitively.
How to Install an SSD in Your PS4 Pro
Upgrading is easier than most people think. Here’s a simplified roadmap:
- Back Up Your Data – Use an external drive or cloud backup to save your games and profiles.
- Remove the HDD – Open the PS4 Pro drive bay and take out the old hard drive.
- Install the SSD – Secure the new SSD in the same bay.
- Reinstall System Software – Download the latest PS4 system software to a USB drive and install it.
- Restore Your Data – Copy your saved data and reinstall your games.
Once complete, you’ll notice faster loading times right away.
Related Performance Fixes for PlayStation Owners
If you’re considering upgrading your PS4 Pro, you may also be planning a transition to the PlayStation 5. Many of the performance issues gamers face today are similar across both consoles.
- For PS5 owners struggling with display problems, check out our guide on How to Fix PS5 HDMI Handshake Issues.
- If your console feels sluggish or unstable, you’ll also benefit from our detailed post on How to Fix PS5 Performance Issues.
Both of these guides provide troubleshooting tips that complement the performance boost you’ll see with an SSD upgrade.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading to the best SSD for PS4 Pro is one of the smartest moves you can make if you’re not ready to switch to the PS5 yet. It makes your console feel more modern, cuts down on waiting, and gives new life to your game library. Whether you choose a Samsung EVO, Crucial MX500, or another trusted option, the result is the same: faster, smoother, and more enjoyable gaming
