07/02/2026 9:51 pm
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Hey everyone! I know we are well into the era of the PS5, but I’ve recently decided to stick with my trusty PS4 Slim for a while longer. My backlog of games is absolutely massive, and honestly, the console still runs like a champ. However, I’m starting to feel like my current setup is a bit 'bare bones' and could use some quality-of-life improvements to make the experience feel more modern in 2024.
Lately, I've been running into two major issues. First, the 500GB internal storage is a total nightmare. I feel like I'm playing 'digital Tetris' every time I want to install a new game, constantly deleting old favorites just to make room for updates. Second, my original DualShock 4 controllers are starting to show their age—the battery life is pretty much non-existent now, and I’m dealing with some annoying stick drift during my sessions of Apex Legends and Elden Ring.
I’ve been looking into a few things like external hard drives and maybe a decent charging station to keep the desk clutter down, but I’m overwhelmed by the options available on Amazon. I’m also curious if it’s worth upgrading to a third-party controller or if I should just stick to the official Sony ones. I have a budget of around $150 to $200 to give my console a 'refresh.'
I'm really looking for those 'game-changer' items that you guys still use daily. Whether it’s a specific SSD brand that actually speeds up those brutal Bloodborne loading screens, or a headset that doesn't break the bank but offers great spatial audio, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
What are the absolute must-have accessories you’d recommend for a PS4 user in 2024 to keep the console feeling fresh and functional?
3 Answers
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07/02/2026 10:30 pm
Honestly, the best way to fix those loading screens isn't an external drive—it's swapping the internal one. If you put a Crucial MX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5 Inch Internal SSD inside, the UI feels way snappier. For the controller issue, official DS4s are overpriced now. I'd grab a 8BitDo USB Wireless Adapter 2 so you can use a PS5 or Xbox controller instead, or just get the HyperX Cloud Stinger Gaming Headset if you need better audio on a budget. Stick drift is the worst tho, so maybe just stick to new official ones if you can find a sale!!
11
07/02/2026 9:51 pm
> First, the 500GB internal storage is a total nightmare. I feel like I'm playing 'digital Tetris' every time I want to install a new game...
Honestly, I feel u on the storage struggle! For your situation, I would suggest going with the Samsung T7 Shield 1TB Portable SSD over a standard HDD. It’s basically a game-changer because it literally slashes those brutal loading screens in Bloodborne. If you wanna save a bit, the Seagate Game Drive for PS4 2TB External Hard Drive is also a solid, safe choice for massive capacity, tho it’s slower than the SSD. Also, definitely grab the Sony DualShock 4 Charging Station to keep ur desk clean and avoid cable wear! It's sooo much more reliable than cheap third-party docks. gl!
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07/02/2026 10:40 pm
yo! honestly, i feel u so much on the ps4 life. i been rocking mine since launch and i'm super satisfied with how it still handles the big titles. for ur $150-$200 budget, u can actually make it feel like a brand new machine without breaking the bank.
so i guess the first thing is the storage/speed situation. i tried the external route but eventually just swapped the internal drive for a Crucial MX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5 Inch Internal SSD. it's literally a game-changer. bloodborne loading screens go from 'time to make a sandwich' to 'barely have time to check my phone.' it makes the whole UI way snappier too.
for the controller drift, i seriously wouldn't buy an official sony one right now cuz the price is wild. i switched to the 8BitDo Retro Receiver for PS4 combined with a cheaper hall-effect controller, or u could just grab the Gamesir G7 SE Wired Controller if u dont mind a cable, since hall-effect sticks basically never drift. plus, if ur battery is dead, getting a HyperX ChargePlay Duo - Controller Charging Station for PS4 is a mood. it looks clean on the desk and basically solves the 'dead controller' anxiety.
lastly, if u want better audio for elden ring, look at the Philips SHP9500 HiFi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones. they're open-back, so the spatial awareness is actually insane for the price. basically makes everything feel way more immersive than cheap gaming headsets. gl with the refresh! 👍
