How Many Hard Drives Can You Have on PS4? A Deep Dive into Storage Options

The PlayStation 4 (PS4) offers a flexible approach to storage, allowing gamers to expand their console’s capacity beyond the internal drive. While you cannot install two internal hard drives simultaneously, you can utilize a combination of the internal drive and an external USB hard drive to significantly increase your storage space. Only one external hard drive can be actively used for extended storage at any given time. Let’s explore the intricacies of PS4 storage options in detail.

Internal vs. External Storage: Understanding Your Options

The PS4 comes equipped with an internal hard drive, typically ranging from 500GB to 1TB, though some models have a 2TB internal drive. This internal drive is crucial for the console to boot and operate. However, as game sizes have ballooned over the years, even 1TB can quickly fill up. This is where external storage comes in handy.

Replacing the Internal Hard Drive

Before diving into external options, it’s worth noting that you can replace the internal hard drive with a larger capacity drive or even an SSD (Solid State Drive) for faster loading times. The PS4 supports standard 2.5-inch SATA hard drives or SSDs with a thickness of no more than 9.5mm. Upgrading the internal drive provides a permanent storage boost and can improve overall performance.

Leveraging External Hard Drives for Extended Storage

The primary way to expand your PS4’s storage without physically opening the console is through external USB hard drives. The PS4 supports external drives connected via USB 3.0 or later. This is crucial for ensuring fast data transfer speeds, which are essential for a seamless gaming experience.

While you might connect multiple external drives to your PS4, only one can be active as extended storage at a time. The console will recognize all connected drives, but you will need to manually designate which one to use for installing and running games. It is also important to note that connection via a USB hub is not supported. Connect extended storage directly to your PS4 console for optimal performance and reliability.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About PS4 Storage

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the storage capabilities of the PS4:

1. Can I use multiple external hard drives on my PS4 at the same time?

   While you can connect multiple external hard drives to your PS4, only one can be active as extended storage at any given time. You’ll need to switch between them in the settings if you want to use a different drive.

2. What is the maximum storage capacity for an external hard drive on PS4?

   The PS4 supports external hard drives with a storage capacity of up to 8TB.

3. Does the PS4 require a specific type of external hard drive?

   Yes, the external hard drive must use USB 3.0 or later and have a minimum storage capacity of 250GB.

4. Can I play PS4 games directly from an external hard drive?

   Yes, you can play PS4 games directly from an external hard drive. This is one of the main benefits of using extended storage.

5. Can I install PS5 games on an external hard drive connected to my PS4?

   No, you cannot install or play PS5 games on an external hard drive connected to a PS4. PS5 games require the faster speeds of the PS5’s internal SSD.

6. Will using an external hard drive slow down my PS4?

   As long as you are using a USB 3.0 or later external hard drive, the performance impact should be minimal. In some cases, it might even improve loading times compared to a slower internal hard drive.

7. How do I format an external hard drive for use with my PS4?

   You can format an external hard drive for use with your PS4 by going to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices. Select the drive and choose “Format as Extended Storage.”

8. Can I use an external hard drive that I already use for my computer with my PS4?

   Yes, but formatting the drive for use with your PS4 will erase all data currently on it. Make sure to back up any important files before formatting.

9. What happens if I remove the external hard drive while a game is running?

   If you remove the external hard drive while a game is running, the game will likely crash, and you may lose unsaved progress. Always safely eject the drive from the PS4 settings before disconnecting it.

10. Can I transfer games between the internal and external hard drives?

    Yes, you can transfer games between the internal and external hard drives via the PS4’s storage settings. This allows you to manage your storage space effectively.

11. Is it better to upgrade the internal hard drive or use an external hard drive?

    This depends on your needs. Upgrading the internal drive provides a permanent storage boost and can improve overall performance, especially if you switch to an SSD. External drives offer flexibility and ease of use but may not be as fast.

12. What size internal hard drive should I get for my PS4 upgrade?

    The largest size supported by a standard 2.5 inch drive is 2tb. However there exists equipment you can buy that lets you install even a 4tb drive 3.5 inch .

13. Can I use a USB hub to connect multiple external hard drives to my PS4?

    No, connection via a USB hub is not supported. Connect extended storage directly to your PS4 console.

14. How many games can I store on a 2TB external hard drive for my PS4?

    With up to 2TB of storage, you can store up to 50+ titles on your drive.

15. If my PS4 HDD is broken and there is no way of it turning on, can I buy a PS5 and log into my account with all my data still?

    If your HDD is broken and your PS4 can’t turn on, you likely won’t have access to the data on that drive. However, if you had PlayStation Plus and cloud saves enabled, your game saves might be recoverable on a new PS5 by logging into your account. Also, any games and purchases tied to your account would be accessible on the PS5.

Optimizing Your PS4 Storage Strategy

To maximize your PS4’s storage potential, consider the following tips:

• Regularly manage your storage: Delete games you no longer play to free up space.
• Prioritize game installations: Install your most frequently played games on the internal drive or an SSD for faster loading times.
• Utilize cloud saves: Back up your game saves to the cloud to prevent data loss in case of hard drive failure. This is especially useful if you are thinking about upgrading your console.
• Consider an SSD upgrade: If you want a significant performance boost, replacing the internal hard drive with an SSD is a worthwhile investment. The Games Learning Society promotes interactive and engaging learning experiences, including gaming, which can benefit from optimized hardware setups. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.

Conclusion

While the PS4 limits you to one actively used external hard drive at a time, the ability to expand storage with an external drive significantly enhances the console’s usability. Whether you choose to upgrade the internal drive or rely on external storage, understanding your options is key to enjoying a seamless gaming experience on your PS4. By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage your storage and ensure you always have room for your favorite games.