When PS4 was first launched, it has a considerably limited space of about 500GB, which at that time is sufficient to accommodate most games. However, as technology advances, newer games of higher capacity started surfacing.
These kinds of games often seem to be rendering the previous ps4 useless. Because users can’t even keep many games on their PS as they’re getting some deleted and replacing them with new ones.
So if you still wish to retain both the previous games and the new ones, it is advisable to get the best internal hard drive for PS4 as this will gives you more edge.
Read more: Best External Hard Drive For PS4 in 2020
What is PS4 Internal Hard Drive?
The PS4 internal hard drive is a smaller sized specifically 2.5-inch drive with a maximum vertical clearance of 9.5 mm and a capacity ranging from 500GB to 8 terabytes. This is found inside the PS4 for permanent storage of system and user data. The device contains a magnetic disk that rotates at the speed of 5400rpm while the saved data remains safe from getting corrupted.
Although, this storage device is of different types, still, features like storage capacity, compatibility, speed, budget, durability and many more determines the type to purchase.
Difference between hard drives: internal and external
The internal hard drive is so named because it is located inside the system cabinet. This stores all the programs and data. Most systems can support multiple internal hard drives. One can be used as a system backup, an alternative boot drive with a different operating system, or simply to store files.
External drives on the other hand are connected to the computer system via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, an eSATA port (External Serial Advanced Technology Attachment), or a FireWire connection if the hardware and software system supports it.
Types of PS4 Internal Hard Drive?
Basically, there are 3 different types of PS4 internal hard drive each designed for specific purposes. They are:
The SSD is a new generation storage device that replaces the traditional HSS due to is fast speed. This storage device type is reliable as your saved data remains intact, even for many years. They are also durable and you will never be disappointed when you have them in your PS4 and playing a game on them.
Although, this storage device is very useful, its major limitation is the price tag, which may not be pocket friendly for low budget earners. Also, it is not advisable for those who wish to store more data to buy this storage device as it has limited space.
The traditional HDD, contrary to the SSD, is an affordable hard drive type designed for those who wish to store larger capacity data. This hard disk storage device uses magnetic recording to store and retrieve digital information. Users of this drive are also capable of creating and storing their own game library or other media.
But the only downside of this storage is its speed which is a little bit slower compared to the SSD. So any other features associated with this hard drive aside this disadvantage is outstanding.
Solid State Hybrid Drive (SSHD)
As the name implies, the SSHD device is the hybrid of both the HDD and SDD and is designed to proffer solution to their limitation (speed, price and storage capacity). So, if you’re someone who needs a large space to store data, this storage device is definitely meant for you.
However, while the price of this device is affordable as it only requires an increment of $10 to the traditional hard drive, still, its speed is a little slower than that of normal SSD. Which doesn’t makes it an ideal of choice for the enthusiast who places his/her priority on speed.
So, how do you choose the best internal hard drive for your PS4?
Let’s begin!
How to choose the Best Internal Hard Drive For Your PS4?
Although there are overabundant internal hard drives products available at your disposal each endorsing its brand as the best. However, we understood that getting the best in this hostile environment isn’t easy. And that’s why we’re here. We have worked tirelessly days and nights in helping you to select the best products.
Also, we’ve detailed all the necessary information needed to secure the best product in case you wish to buy yourself or give a recommendation to those who consult you in future. A good hard drive is a great investment as it always performs optimally and last for a longer period.
So, listed below are the features needed to look into before settling for one.
What is the internal hard disk storage capacity?
The first feature we have looked into in our list of the best internal hard drive is the storage capacity. This is because the storage capacity determines the number of games and data you’ll have kept on your computer. Normally, the traditional hard drive has the least storage capacity of 500GB which is sufficient for you to store ancient games in lesser numbers.
But if you, however, wish to upgrade the older games on your PS4 and have more recent games, in addition, it is advisable to buy the SSHD. This device storage space may reach 8 terabytes which for now we think can accommodate many games and data.
What of Compatibility?
The most important factor behind the storage capacity is the compatibility of the hard drive. The compatibility we mean however includes how perfectly the size of the disk fits your PS4, which necessary tools the HDD comes with and their various sizes also? So, if for example, one of the required necessary tools is not included in your purchase, be ready to spend more so you can have nice gameplay.
What is the Speed?
Speed again is another paramount factor needed to look into when buying your choice of the internal hard drive. This is because most recent newer games can only be played on a drive that has faster speed. Also, other necessities like file transfer, download of games, installation and many more can also be performed on this kind of device.
In a real sense, the traditional HDD is slower compared to the SSHD and SSD.
What is the price tag?
Talking about the necessary factors needed to consider in getting the best hard disk without mentioning the price tag is incomplete. Although, all the available storage device in our guides are pocket friendly, still, you will find those whose price is majorly meant for the higher-budget users.
This kind of drive is mostly found among the SSD products. However, in general, the price tag of all the storage disk in our guides ranges between $35 and a hundred dollar.
What is the durability?
Most hard disks will last you for years if properly used and managed. Based on our deep research and honest reviews, the SSD and SSHD are known to work for a longer period without developing any issue like crashing. Also, most manufacturers offer a limited warranty. So rest assured your money is safe as you can return the product if you’re not pleased with its service.
Now that you’ve made up your mind to buy the internal hard drive for your PS4, the next thing is to choose. That’s why we’ve helped you handpicked some the best available in the markert, which are reviewed below.
Top 5 Products Best Internal Hard Drive for PS4 in 2020 Reviews
1. Seagate BarraCuda 4TB Internal Hard Drive HDD
Suitable for the storage of heavy files and folders, the Seagate BarraCuda ST4000DMZ04/DM004 is an enormous 4 Terabyte space capacity HDD that is super faster in computing. This internal hard drive is extremely reliable and works confidently for a longer period without truncating. So if you’re a lover of music, video, photo editing, PC gaming and so on, the SATA storage drive is the go-to for you.
Since Seagate Barracuda is an HDD model, its spinning period doesn’t exceed 5400RPMthough reliable. Again, its size is 3.5 Inch which is a little bit bigger than most HDD. However, to prove how reliable this drive is, it comes with a 2-year limited warranty backed with 20 years of hard drive laminate finish.
So within this period, you’re privileged to return the product if you’re not satisfied with its services. Although no returning case has never been reported.
Pros
- Comes with a warranty period of two years.
- The storage capacity is larger
- Super fast
Cons
- The disk park doesn’t come with an instructional manual for installation.
2. Western Digital WD20SPZX WD Blue Mobile Hard Drive
The first and the best internal hard drive for PS4 is the Western Digital hard drive (WD20SPZX). This easy to install device has a 2.5 inch and 7mm thin SATA III Hard Drive and a larger storage capacity of 2TB /2000GB which is more than enough to accommodate and store most of your data. Also, it’s a spinning rate of 5400RPM that makes it easy to boot, download and play older games without getting frustrated.
Amazingly, this HDD device is versatile as it works perfectly with any PS4 model, desktops, notebooks and laptops that take 2.5 inches and 9.5mm or those of 7mm SATA hard drives. It is reliable as its storage is built with high standard WD. And besides, it features a no-touch ramp load technology safely positioned and helps to protect data from getting corrupt.
However, unlike most hard drive of the same price range, this HDD is easy to upgrade and no prior knowledge is needed to couple it.
Pros
- Easier to disassemble, assemble and get started.
- Works with laptops and other desktops of similar sizes.
- Capable of storing larger files and data
Cons
- Slightly thinner than most hard drive.
3. Seagate Iron Wolf ST6000VN0033
Seagate is widely known in the world of hard drive for PS4 and laptops and Seagate Iron Wolf ST6000VN0033 is not an exception. This frustration-free HDD device has a size of 3.5 Inch and a spinning speed of 7200 RPM just like its contemporary. However, with a storage capacity of 6TB, it is more advance in storage.
The larger storage capacity enhances the speed of the drive, so rest assured you will enjoy your gaming and other activities without any hassle. The quality design of the Iron Wolf brand makes it durable as it helps deliver lesser wear and tear. This may also be linked to its little or no noise or vibration production.
However, as if all the aforementioned features are not sufficient for this higher price tag drive, it has an integrated Iron Wolf Health Management System. This helps to easily monitor the health of the drive as well as a 1M hours MTBF that also influence its long term reliability.
Pros
- Doesn’t lag as it has no downtime.
- Comes with a special system that helps to monitor the health of the drive.
- Seagate Iron Wolf ST6000VN0033 works quietly and it has a shock absorber.
Cons
- Quite expensive.
- Doesn’t fit into some drive sleds as the standard screw mount points are missing in it.
4. Toshiba 1TB, 5400RPM 8MB, Notebook Hard Drive
The Toshiba HDD is a renowned internal disk featuring a 1TB, 5400RPM, and 8MB Cache hard drive with 3.0Gb/s SATA. This 2.5 Inch storage device is suitable for user who owns either PS3/ PS4 as it works perfectly for both. Also, it is perfect for HDD console replacement and upgrades without hindering the functionalities of the PS.
Included with this HDD is the Hard Drive installation and Play station firmware download to ease assembling and disassembling if the need arises. Also, comes with this device from the Reseller is a 3-year warranty. So no need to panic return if you’re not pleased with its functions, but this doesn’t cover careless use.
The 5400RPM motor speed of this Toshiba brand helps to improve the system-level performance by 12 per cent when compared to the traditional 4200 RPM motor speed.
Pros
- Has lower power consumption.
- Suitable for both PS3 and PS4.
Cons
- Storage is limited compared to other hard drives.
5. Western Digital 500GB 2.5 Inch WD5000LPVX
The last in number but not in function in our list of available inner PS4 hard drive is the Western Digital 500GB 2.5 Inch. If you’re a game enthusiast whose budget is low and willing to get an average and reliable storage capacity device, this hard drive is meant for you.
Specially designed for both Playstation3 and Playstation4 all models, this Western Digital drive is rugged and can work without frustrating you. Especially if used occasionally or not for the heavy task. Also, it’s easy to transfer data and other files to the disk or away from it, if you wish to share the data.
However, its storage capacity may not be sufficient to accommodate most recent games due to their space capacity. Otherwise, you may need to delete some games for others to stay. This is the major downside of this drive.
Pros
- The price is cheap.
- Easy to install
- Well built
Cons
- The motor speed is slow and the storage capacity is also low.
Internal Hard Drive FAQs
Is it necessary to upgrade my PS4 hard drive?
Yes, it is important to upgrade the PS4 hard drive if you wish to add new features to it. This is because the traditional drives are always slow in speed and cannot accommodate more games or data except you delete one for them. This is due to their limited storage capacity.
Which hard drive storage is best for me?
There is no direct answer as this depends on what you’re willing to do with the drive and what you want to store on it. For example, if you’re willing to store more games on your drive, the SSHD is the best for you as it has more space capacity. The SSD may also be useful. However, if you’re not financially buoyant, you will still find the HDD helpful for you.
Which internal hard drive brand is the best?
The best hard drive brand is the one that can serve you longer aside having all the necessary features you like. To know more, kindly read the manure or ask those who have used it before. To know more, you can even go online and read reviews written by honest customers.
Conclusion
We have come to the end of the buying guides and hope you would have gotten all the necessary information needed to secure the best internal hard drive for the PS4 product. To remind you once again, the best internal hard drive is the one that has a large storage capacity for data, games and other files.
This hard drive could either be HDD, SDD and SSHD and must be able to serve you for a longer period while their price must still be affordable. Although, the price should not be regarded as the real benchmark for selection. Also, when it comes to compatibility, they must fit perfectly into your PS4, while some may fit into PS3 as well.
In a nutshell, our best internal hard drive disk pick is Western Digital WD20SPZX. This HDD storage is easy to install and the price is affordable to all pocket. It also stores more than enough data and games while its storage speed also supports and complement its functionalities.
