Everything you need to know about PCIe 4.0 SSDs (Gen 4 SSD)

Each generation of PCI Express doubles the bandwidth. Here is a small table for comparison:

👉 A SSD PCIe 4 can reach 7,000 MB/s, which is already huge for most current uses.

Even if PCIe 5 SSDs arrive, Gen4 remains the best choice for 90% of users. Here's why:

• ⚡ Speed → 2x faster than PCIe 3.0.
• 💸 More affordable price → Gen 4 SSDs have become affordable.
• 🔥 Less heat than PCIe 5 models (no need for a dedicated fan).
• 🎮 Gaming ready for the future → compatible with Microsoft's DirectStorage.
• 🖥️ Perfect for creatives → video editing 4K/6K, 3D rendering, etc.

In plain language: you are already benefiting from a big performance boost without blowing your budget.

To install a PCIe 4 SSD, you need:

A PCIe 4.0 compatible motherboard:

• AMD → from X570 and B550 chipsets (with Ryzen 3000 and above).
• Intel → from the Z490 chipsets (10th gen) and especially Z590/Z690.

A compatible CPU:

• AMD Ryzen 3000 (Zen 2) and more.
• Intel Core 10th generation (Comet Lake) and more.

👉 Good news: the majority of recent configurations already support PCIe Gen4 without any issues.

Click to enlarge

To view the difference:

👉 Result: a Gen 4 SSD loads your games and software much faster than a Gen 3, but without the price and heat of a Gen 5.

Some flagship models that you can regularly find on sale:

• Samsung 980 Pro → a safe bet.
• WD Black SN850X → excellent for gaming.
• Corsair MP600 Pro LPX → compatible PS5.

The answer is clear: yes, without hesitation .

• For gaming → it's the ideal generation: affordable prices, huge performance.
• For the creators → powerful enough for 4K/6K.
• For a future-proof PC → it still holds up for several years.

PCIe 5 is a technological showcase, but in terms of quality/price, the PCIe 4 remains unbeatable .

1. Do PCIe 4 SSDs work on a PCIe 3 motherboard?

Yes, but they will be limited to PCIe 3 speed.

2. Is a Gen 4 SSD sufficient for a gamer?

Widely! Loading times are already almost instantaneous.

3. Can we install a PCIe 4 SSD in a PS5?

Yes, as long as it reaches at least 5,500 MB/s and has a heatsink.

4. What capacity to take?

The 1 TB is perfect for a gaming PC. If you work in video editing → go for 2 TB instead.