Feeling the squeeze on your PlayStation 5’s storage? You’re not alone! With massive game sizes becoming the norm, that 825GB internal SSD fills up fast. But don’t fret – upgrading your PS5’s storage is surprisingly easy, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to do it. We’re here to help you find the best affordable SSD for PS5 that delivers blazing-fast performance without breaking the bank.
Adding an internal M.2 NVMe SSD is the best way to expand your PS5’s capacity, allowing you to install more games and enjoy lightning-fast load times. We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top picks, focusing on speed, compatibility, and, of course, affordability. Let’s dive in!
Why Your PS5 Needs an SSD Upgrade
Even though the PS5 comes with a speedy internal SSD, its usable capacity is closer to 667GB. That’s enough for maybe 5-7 large AAA titles before you’re constantly deleting and re-downloading games. An M.2 NVMe SSD expansion allows you to:
- Store More Games: Keep your entire game library installed and ready to play.
- Faster Load Times: Many games will load just as quickly, or even quicker, from your expansion SSD as from the internal drive.
- Play PS5 Games Directly: Unlike external USB drives, you can play PS5-specific titles directly from an M.2 NVMe SSD.
What to Look For in a PS5 SSD
When choosing the best affordable SSD for PS5, keep these key specs in mind:
- Form Factor: M.2 2280 (this is standard).
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD.
- Capacity: 1TB is a great starting point for value, but 2TB offers more breathing room.
- Read Speed: Sony recommends 5,500 MB/s or faster. Most good Gen4 drives exceed this.
- Heatsink: Crucial! The PS5 requires an SSD with a heatsink to prevent thermal throttling and maintain optimal performance during intense gaming sessions. Many drives come with one pre-attached, or you can buy one separately.
Now, let’s explore our top picks for the best affordable SSD for PS5!
Product Reviews
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed…
This WD_BLACK SN850P is a fantastic choice for PS5 owners, especially because it’s officially licensed by PlayStation. This means you get guaranteed compatibility and a hassle-free installation, as it’s designed specifically with the PS5 in mind. It comes with a pre-attached heatsink, ensuring optimal performance and cooling without any extra steps. It’s a premium, plug-and-play solution that lets you dive straight into gaming with confidence.
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB (2TB reviewed here).
- Optimized heatsink for easy, worry-free installation.
- Play directly from the drive, no transfers needed.
- Blazing-fast read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
Pros:
– Official PlayStation licensing ensures perfect compatibility.
– Integrated, optimized heatsink for superior cooling.
– Exceptional read speeds exceed PS5 requirements.
– Plug-and-play ease of installation.
– Option for large storage capacities.
Cons:
– May be slightly pricier than non-licensed alternatives.
User Impressions: Users rave about the SN850P’s seamless integration and incredible speed. Many highlight the peace of mind that comes with an officially licensed product, making it a popular choice for those wanting a premium, reliable upgrade.
SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2, Speeds Up…
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a powerhouse, representing the pinnacle of PCIe Gen 4 performance. Samsung is renowned for its flash memory, and this drive lives up to that reputation, offering speeds that push the limits of what the PS5 can handle. It’s engineered with an ultra-slim integrated heatsink, making it perfectly compatible with the PS5 while keeping temperatures in check during even the most demanding gaming sessions. This SSD is for serious gamers who want top-tier performance and reliability.
- Near max PCIe 4.0 performance with read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- Integrated, ultra-slim heatsink for effective heat dissipation.
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
- More than 55% improvement in random performance over 980 PRO.
- Designed with PS5 compatibility in mind.
Pros:
– One of the fastest SSDs available, maximizing PS5 performance.
– Integrated heatsink is perfectly sized for PS5 slot.
– Exceptional reliability from a leading flash memory brand.
– Massive 4TB capacity option for endless games.
Cons:
– Premium price point, especially for higher capacities.
User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the 990 PRO’s blistering speeds, noting a tangible difference in game loading and asset streaming. Its stable performance under heavy load, thanks to the excellent heatsink, is a frequent highlight in user reviews.
Fanxiang 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 Internal Gaming SSD…
The Fanxiang S690Q offers an efficient and affordable solution for expanding your PS5 storage. It hits the necessary PCIe Gen4 speeds for PS5 compatibility, ensuring swift game launches without breaking the bank. What makes it stand out in the budget category is the inclusion of a graphite heat dissipation sticker, which helps manage temperatures, making it a reliable choice for extended gaming. It’s a great option for those seeking a balance between performance and value.
- PCIe Gen4 x4 technology with NVMe 1.4 protocol.
- Read speeds up to 4800MB/s, perfectly compatible with PS5.
- Storage capacities from 500GB to 4TB.
- Graphite heat dissipation sticker for effective cooling.
- Wide compatibility with PS5, desktops, and laptops.
- 5-year after-sales service.
Pros:
– Very budget-friendly option for PS5 expansion.
– Includes a graphite heat dissipation sticker for basic thermal management.
– Good range of storage capacities.
– Comes with a reassuring 5-year warranty.
Cons:
– Read speed (4800MB/s) is below Sony’s recommendation of 5500MB/s (though PS5 may still accept it and function).
– Graphite sticker may not be as effective as a full heatsink.
User Impressions: Users find this SSD to be an excellent value, noting that despite its lower price, it performs well for general PS5 gaming. The included heat sticker is appreciated by those who don’t want to buy a separate heatsink.
fanxiang 1TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD for PS5 with…
The Fanxiang S880ER steps up the game with extreme performance, boasting sequential read/write speeds of up to 7100/5300 MB/s. This makes it more than capable of handling demanding PS5 titles. What truly sets it apart for PS5 users is its unique heatsink design, specifically engineered to keep the drive cool, maintaining peak performance even during marathon gaming sessions. If you’re looking for a performance-oriented best affordable SSD for PS5 that comes with its own robust cooling, this is a strong contender.
- PCIe Gen4 x4 controller, NVMe 2.0 technology.
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7100/5300 MB/s.
- Unique heatsink design for efficient thermal control.
- Designed for hardcore gamers, compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage.
- Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
- 5-year after-sales service.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds that comfortably exceed PS5 requirements.
– Effective, unique heatsink design included for optimal cooling.
– Strong performance for both gaming and professional use.
– Reliable 5-year warranty.
Cons:
– May not be compatible with Mac OS (as per note).
User Impressions: Customers are generally impressed by the S880ER’s speed and its ability to maintain performance, crediting the heatsink for consistent operation. Many find it to be a powerful and cost-effective upgrade for their gaming consoles.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2…
The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is a formidable choice for your PS5, delivering exceptional performance that’s twice as fast as many PCIe Gen 3 SSDs. Its standout feature is its remarkable power efficiency, consuming up to 40% less power than many DRAM cache-enabled Gen 4 SSDs, which is great for overall system health. Combined with its integrated heatsink and impressive read/write speeds, it offers a robust and reliable storage solution that won’t strain your PS5’s power supply.
- Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- Integrated heatsink for optimal cooling.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth transfer speeds.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds exceed PS5 requirements.
– Excellent power efficiency reduces system strain.
– Integrated heatsink ensures proper cooling.
– Robust 5-year warranty.
Cons:
– None significant for PS5 use.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend the NM790 for its impressive speed and noticeable reduction in game load times. The built-in heatsink and overall reliability make it a highly recommended choice for PS5 upgrades.
Fikwot FX991 M.2 SSD 1TB NVMe SSD M2 2280 PCIe…
The Fikwot FX991 is a lightning-fast option that strikes a great balance between performance and smart thermal management. It leverages PCIe Gen 4×4 and NVMe protocol to deliver impressive read/write speeds, ensuring your PS5 games load quickly. What makes it particularly appealing is its auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and power efficiency management, coupled with a high-conductivity graphite heatsink. This intelligent design means consistent performance without excessive heat buildup, making it a reliable best affordable SSD for PS5 candidate.
- Lightning-fast performance: up to 7100MB/s read and 6100MB/s write.
- Auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and power efficiency management.
- Equipped with a high-conductivity graphite heatsink.
- HMB and smart SLC cache for outstanding performance.
- Excellent compatibility with PS5, laptops, and desktops.
- 5-year limited service or 600TBW.
Pros:
– High speeds meet and exceed PS5 recommendations.
– Intelligent thermal and power management.
– Comes with a graphite heatsink for heat dissipation.
– HMB and SLC cache boost performance.
– Solid 5-year warranty.
Cons:
– Graphite heatsink might be less effective than a full metal heatsink in extreme cases.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the FX991’s speed and smooth operation. Many users point out that it’s a great value, delivering high-end performance at a more accessible price point, making their PS5 experience significantly better.
Seagate Game Drive PS5 NVMe SSD for PS5 2TB Internal…
The Seagate Game Drive for PS5 is another officially licensed product, making it an incredibly strong contender if compatibility and ease of use are your top priorities. Built with matching firmware, it integrates seamlessly into all PS5 models, guaranteeing a smooth and reliable experience. Its custom heatsink is designed to keep thermal throttling at bay, ensuring peak performance for your PS5 and PS4 games directly from the drive. This drive offers absolute performance with total peace of mind.
- Officially licensed with matching firmware for all PS5 models.
- Custom heatsink for minimal thermal throttling and peak performance.
- Allows direct play of PS5 and PS4 games from the SSD.
- Absolute performance: up to 7300/6000MB/s read/write speeds.
- Industry-leading 5-year warranty.
Pros:
– Official licensing ensures perfect, worry-free compatibility.
– Robust custom heatsink provides excellent thermal management.
– High read/write speeds meet and exceed PS5 requirements.
– Long 5-year warranty offers great peace of mind.
Cons:
– May command a higher price due to official licensing.
User Impressions: Users frequently highlight the simplicity of installation and the reliable performance of the Seagate Game Drive. The “officially licensed” aspect is a big draw, giving customers confidence in their PS5 storage expansion.
MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC…
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 is a powerhouse for PS5, delivering cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 speeds up to 7450MB/s read and 6500MB/s write. What makes this SSD stand out is its commitment to quality, backed by rigorous testing, ensuring a long and stable service life. It comes with a built-in graphene composite heat sink and even an uninstalled heatsink in the package for extra cooling. This drive is designed for those who want high performance and durability, making it an excellent best affordable SSD for PS5 that comes ready to plug and play.
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 high-speed interface (7450/6500 MB/s).
- Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC.
- Large storage capacities (1TB/2TB available).
- Utilizes high-quality 3D NAND flash memory chips.
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink, plus an included heatsink.
- Rigorous 80-hour testing for stability and long life.
- Includes heatsink, screws, and screwdriver for easy installation.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds that maximize PS5 performance.
– Dual cooling solution (graphene and included heatsink).
– Undergoes extensive quality control testing.
– Comes with all installation accessories.
– Offers excellent storage capacity options.
Cons:
– Heatsink requires manual installation (though tools are provided).
User Impressions: Customers are consistently impressed by the MOVE SPEED HB7450’s raw speed and the value it offers. The thoughtful inclusion of installation tools and an extra heatsink is frequently mentioned as a plus.
acer Predator GM7 1TB SSD: M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4…
The Acer Predator GM7 is a strong contender for the best affordable SSD for PS5, offering robust PCIe 4.0 performance designed for demanding workloads and gaming. It features impressive read/write speeds and leverages Host Memory Buffer (HMB) and SLC caching to accelerate game loading and file transfers, providing a truly responsive gaming experience. Its efficient thermal control maintains stable temperatures, while the inclusion of Acronis cloning software adds extra value for PC users, making it a versatile and powerful choice.
- PCIe 4.0 performance: up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write.
- HMB+SLC Cache for accelerated game loading and file transfers.
- High-efficiency PCIe controller and quality flash memory.
- Efficient thermal control with dynamic power management.
- Comes with Acronis True Image for system migration.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for seamless PS5 gaming.
– HMB and SLC caching enhance performance and responsiveness.
– Efficient thermal management maintains stable operation.
– Reputable brand with reliable components.
Cons:
– Does not include a heatsink, requiring a separate purchase.
– Acronis software is more useful for PC migration than PS5.
User Impressions: Users laud the Predator GM7 for its raw speed and smooth performance, noting it’s a significant upgrade for their gaming setups. While some mentioned the need for a separate heatsink, the performance justifies the extra step.
COLORFUL SSD 2TB, M.2 2TB SSD,PCIe NVMe PCIe 4.0, Gaming…
The COLORFUL CN700 PRO offers ultimate PCIe Gen4 performance, making it an exceptional choice for PS5 gamers. This M.2 SSD delivers blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds, drastically cutting down loading times and enhancing overall gameplay responsiveness. It stands out with its specialized graphite-coated sticker for efficient heat dissipation, ensuring stable operation even during intense, extended gaming sessions. With universal compatibility and a tool-free installation, it’s a compelling option for a hassle-free and powerful storage upgrade.
- PCIe Gen4 x4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology.
- Blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds of 7400/6600 MB/s.
- Gaming-optimized, fully compatible with PS5.
- Specialized graphite-coated sticker for efficient thermal management.
- High-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
- Universal compatibility with M.2 2280 form factor.
Pros:
– Top-tier speeds for excellent PS5 performance.
– Effective graphite-coated sticker for thermal dissipation.
– Gaming-optimized for reduced loading times.
– Universal compatibility and easy installation.
Cons:
– Graphite sticker may not be as robust as a full heatsink.
User Impressions: Customers are very pleased with the COLORFUL CN700 PRO’s speed and its ability to significantly improve game loading times on their PS5. The ease of installation and the consistent performance are frequently praised.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 5’s storage with one of the best affordable SSD for PS5 options listed above is one of the smartest moves you can make as a gamer. Not only will you free yourself from the constant cycle of deleting and re-downloading games, but you’ll also ensure your gaming experience remains smooth and fast.
Whether you opt for an officially licensed drive like the WD_BLACK SN850P or the Seagate Game Drive, or a high-performance, budget-friendly option with an integrated heatsink like the Samsung 990 PRO, Fanxiang S880ER, Lexar NM790, or MOVE SPEED HB7450, you’re making a great investment. Remember to prioritize PCIe Gen4, an M.2 2280 form factor, and a heatsink to ensure optimal compatibility and performance.
Happy gaming, and enjoy your expanded library!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why do I need an SSD for my PS5?
A1: The PS5’s internal storage is limited. Adding an M.2 NVMe SSD allows you to store significantly more PS5 and PS4 games, eliminating the need to constantly delete and re-download titles. It also maintains the lightning-fast load times that the PS5 is known for.
Q2: What type of SSD does the PS5 use?
A2: The PS5 requires an M.2 NVMe SSD with a PCIe Gen4 x4 interface. It also needs to be the 2280 form factor (22mm wide, 80mm long).
Q3: What speed SSD do I need for PS5?
A3: Sony recommends an SSD with a sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster. Most high-quality PCIe Gen4 SSDs easily meet or exceed this requirement.
Q4: Is it hard to install an SSD in a PS5?
A4: Not at all! Sony designed the PS5 with an accessible M.2 expansion slot. The process involves removing a side panel, unscrewing a cover, inserting the SSD, and then reassembling. It usually takes less than 15 minutes and requires just a Phillips head screwdriver. There are many video tutorials available online.
Q5: Do all SSDs need a heatsink for PS5?
A5: Yes, a heatsink is mandatory for any M.2 SSD installed in the PS5. Without one, the SSD can overheat under heavy load, leading to thermal throttling, which slows down performance. Many SSDs now come with integrated heatsinks, or you can purchase one separately.
Q6: Can I play PS5 games from an external USB drive?
A6: No, you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external USB drive. External drives are only suitable for storing PS5 games and playing PS4 games. To play PS5 games, they must be either on the internal drive or an installed internal M.2 NVMe SSD.
Q7: What capacity SSD is best for PS5?
A7: For most gamers, a 1TB SSD is a great starting point, offering enough space for 15-20 additional large games. If you have a massive library or prefer not to manage storage often, a 2TB SSD provides even more breathing room and is often the sweet spot for value.
Q8: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A8: No, installing a compatible M.2 SSD in your PS5 will not void your console’s warranty, as Sony officially supports and provides instructions for this upgrade. Always ensure you follow the official installation guidelines.