Running low on storage space on your PlayStation 5? You’re definitely not alone! With game sizes ballooning, that initial 825GB (and much less usable) internal SSD fills up surprisingly fast. If you’re tired of constantly deleting games to make room for new titles, it’s time to consider a PS5-compatible M.2 SSD upgrade. But let’s be real, you want performance without breaking the bank, right? That’s where finding the best budget M.2 SSD for PS5 comes in.
An M.2 NVMe SSD is the perfect solution for expanding your PS5’s storage, offering lightning-fast load times that match or even exceed the console’s internal drive. But with so many options out there, how do you pick one that delivers great value and excellent performance without costing an arm and a leg? We’ve done the heavy lifting for you! In this guide, we’ll dive into 10 top contenders, balancing speed, reliability, and price to help you find the ideal storage upgrade for your beloved console. Get ready to download more games and spend less time managing your library!
Our Top Picks for the Best Budget M.2 SSD for PS5
When looking for the ideal internal SSD for your PlayStation 5, you need to ensure it meets specific requirements: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe, speeds of at least 5,500MB/s, and a heatsink to prevent thermal throttling. Our selections below offer excellent performance and great value, fitting perfectly into your PS5’s expansion slot.
1. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a powerhouse, often hailed as one of the best M.2 SSDs on the market, period. While it might lean slightly more towards the “premium performance at a competitive price” end of the budget spectrum, its blazing-fast speeds and integrated heatsink make it an exceptional value for PS5 gamers seeking top-tier performance. It’s built by the world’s leading flash memory brand, ensuring reliability and incredible responsiveness for even the most demanding titles.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s
- Integrated ultra-slim heatsink for superior temperature control
- More than 55% improvement in random performance over 980 PRO
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB
- Designed with PS5 compatibility in mind
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for lightning-fast load times
- Reliable and durable from a top brand
- Efficient integrated heatsink
- Excellent for heavy gaming and content creation
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Cons:
- Can be pricier than some other “budget” options
- Might be overkill if you’re only looking for basic expansion
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently rave about the 990 PRO’s incredible speed, noting a noticeable difference in game loading and system responsiveness. Users appreciate the included heatsink, making installation a breeze for PS5 owners. Many feel the premium price is justified by the unparalleled performance.
2. WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN7100 is a fantastic choice for gamers looking for high performance without breaking the bank. It offers a great balance of speed and affordability, making it a strong contender for the title of best budget M.2 SSD for PS5. While not officially licensed, its impressive speeds and Western Digital’s reputation for quality make it a reliable and smart upgrade for your console, delivering noticeable improvements in game loading.
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Key Features:
- Speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models)
- Purpose-built for gaming with PCIe Gen4 interface
- Available in capacities up to 4TB
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over previous generation
- Compatible with WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for optimization
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds for demanding PS5 games
- Good power efficiency, suitable for laptops and handhelds too
- Reliable Western Digital brand
- More affordable than some top-tier options
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Cons:
- Does not come with an integrated heatsink (must purchase separately for PS5)
- Dashboard software is Windows-only
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User Impressions: Users often praise the SN7100 for its strong performance-to-price ratio, finding it a cost-effective way to boost their PS5 storage. Many highlight its solid speeds and Western Digital’s trusted brand, though some note the extra step of needing to add a heatsink for PS5 compatibility.
3. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
For those who want zero compatibility worries and an official PlayStation seal of approval, the WD_BLACK SN850P is a dream come true. This officially licensed M.2 SSD for PS5 consoles removes all guesswork, coming with an optimized heatsink specifically designed for the console’s M.2 slot. It’s a premium option that offers unparalleled peace of mind and top-tier performance, ideal for dedicated PlayStation enthusiasts.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB (4TB can store up to 100 games)
- Optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5 console
- Play directly from the drive with tested and approved storage
- Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe (for eligible users)
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Pros:
- Guaranteed compatibility and easy installation for PS5
- Excellent speeds for seamless gameplay
- Integrated, optimized heatsink
- Large storage capacities available
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Cons:
- Generally more expensive due to official licensing and bundled features
- Trial offer might not be relevant for all users
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User Impressions: PS5 owners absolutely love the SN850P for its “plug-and-play” ease and official stamp of approval. Many find the slightly higher cost justifiable for the peace of mind and seamless integration it provides, emphasizing its fast loading times and perfect fit.
4. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN850X is another heavy hitter from Western Digital, designed to transform your gaming experience with extreme speeds and advanced features. While it’s a high-performance drive, its competitive pricing often places it as a strong contender when considering the best budget M.2 SSD for PS5 that still offers enthusiast-level performance. The optional heatsink version is a must-have for PS5 users, ensuring stable operation during intense gaming sessions.
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Key Features:
- Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s
- Capacities up to 8TB for massive game libraries
- Optional heatsink version available for peak performance
- Downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) with Game Mode 2.0
- Future-forward features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management
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Pros:
- Extremely high speeds ideal for demanding games
- Massive storage options available
- Optional heatsink is effective for thermal management
- Advanced features enhance gaming performance
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Cons:
- Dashboard software is Windows-only (not directly beneficial for PS5 users)
- Heatsink version can be pricier than bare drive
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User Impressions: Users report that the SN850X delivers on its promise of transforming gaming performance, with incredibly fast load times and smooth gameplay. Many appreciate the optional heatsink for its effectiveness, making it a popular choice for both PC and PS5 gamers seeking top-tier speed.
5. Fikwot FX910 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD for PS5&PC, PCIe Gen4
The Fikwot FX910 enters the scene as a compelling choice for a best budget M.2 SSD for PS5, offering impressive performance at a highly competitive price point. It boasts speeds that meet and exceed PS5 requirements, and crucially, includes a built-in graphite heatsink to keep temperatures in check. This makes it a fantastic plug-and-play option for those seeking affordability without compromising on essential features or speed.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds up to 7300MB/s (read) and 6200MB/s (write) via PCIe 4.0
- Built-in graphite heatsink for stable performance under load
- Wide compatibility with PS5 and desktop PCs
- Available up to 4TB large capacity
- Easy plug-and-play installation with no driver required
- 5-year guarantee and 24/7 support
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds meeting PS5 requirements
- Integrated heatsink is a big plus for PS5 compatibility
- Very competitive price for the performance offered
- Long warranty and good customer support
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Cons:
- Brand might be less recognized than industry giants
- Lower write speed compared to some premium competitors
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User Impressions: Customers are often pleasantly surprised by the Fikwot FX910’s performance, given its price. They highlight the easy installation and the effectiveness of the included heatsink for PS5 use, making it a popular budget-friendly option for expanding console storage.
6. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
Lexar’s NM790 with Heatsink is another strong contender for the best budget M.2 SSD for PS5, delivering exceptional performance with a focus on power efficiency. It provides speeds that easily meet the PS5’s demands, and the integrated heatsink ensures cool and consistent operation. What truly sets it apart is its significantly lower power consumption, which is great for both energy bills and sustained performance.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- Designed with a heatsink for better performance and power efficiency
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer speeds
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Excellent read and write speeds for PS5
- Integrated heatsink for hassle-free installation
- Significantly lower power consumption
- Good value for performance
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Cons:
- Write speed slightly lower than some top-tier competitors
- May not be as widely available as bigger brands
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Lexar NM790 for its strong performance, especially considering its price point and power efficiency. Many PS5 owners find it an easy and reliable upgrade, with the integrated heatsink being a major convenience.
7. fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD for
The fanxiang S880E offers impressive speeds and massive capacity, making it an attractive choice if you’re looking for a substantial storage upgrade without spending a fortune. Available in 4TB, it’s perfect for hardcore gamers who never want to delete a game again. While it comes with a graphite-coated copper and aluminum foil layer for heat dissipation, a dedicated heatsink might still be beneficial for sustained, heavy PS5 gaming sessions, though the built-in solution is a thoughtful touch for a budget option.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller with NVMe 2.0 technology
- Sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s
- Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage for faster loads
- Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory
- Efficient thermal control via graphite coated copper foil and aluminum foil layer
- 5 years after-sales service and lifetime technical support
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds meeting PS5 requirements
- Very large capacities available (e.g., 4TB)
- Good value for large storage
- Thoughtful thermal control design
- Long warranty and support
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Cons:
- Built-in thermal solution is a sticker, not a traditional heatsink, which might be less effective for prolonged heavy use in PS5 compared to a solid metal heatsink.
- Brand may be less known to some users.
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User Impressions: Buyers of the fanxiang S880E appreciate the sheer amount of storage and the fast speeds it provides for its price. Gamers particularly note its compatibility with PS5 and its ability to handle large game libraries, praising its overall value proposition.
8. COLORFUL PS5 SSD 2TB, M.2 2TB SSD PS5, PCIe NVMe
The COLORFUL CN700 PRO is specifically marketed towards PS5 users, emphasizing its ultimate performance and gaming optimization. This 2TB M.2 SSD delivers blazing-fast speeds well above the PS5’s minimum requirements, ensuring rapid load times and smooth gameplay. Its advanced thermal management, featuring a specialized graphite-coated sticker, is designed to keep it cool even during intense gaming sessions, solidifying its place as a strong contender for the best budget M.2 SSD for PS5 that doesn’t skimp on performance.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 x4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology
- Blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds of 7400/6600 MB/s
- Gaming-optimized for PS5 and gaming PCs
- High-quality 3D NAND flash memory for professional-grade productivity
- Advanced thermal management with graphite-coated sticker
- Universal M.2 2280 form factor for easy installation
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds for superior gaming performance
- Specifically optimized for PS5 compatibility
- Effective thermal design to prevent throttling
- Easy, tool-free installation
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Cons:
- Thermal sticker might not dissipate heat as effectively as a full metal heatsink in all scenarios.
- Brand less established than some giants in the SSD market.
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User Impressions: Users report excellent performance from the COLORFUL CN700 PRO, particularly praising its fast load times on the PS5. Many find it a straightforward and effective upgrade, appreciating its competitive pricing for the speeds offered and its focus on gaming performance.
9. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 is designed with PS5 users firmly in mind, offering a fantastic blend of high performance and ease of use. This 2TB SSD comes with a built-in graphene composite heat sink and even an additional heatsink in the package, ensuring superior cooling for demanding PS5 sessions. With speeds pushing the limits of PCIe 4.0, it’s a strong contender if you’re looking for the best budget M.2 SSD for PS5 that comes with everything you need right out of the box.
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Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 high-speed interface (7450MB/s read, 6500MB/s write)
- Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC, with M.2 2280 form factor
- High-quality 3D Nand flash memory chips and Maxio MAP1602 controller
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink + included additional heatsink
- Rigorous testing for stability and long service life
- Package includes SSD, heatsink, screws, screwdriver, user manual
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Pros:
- Extremely fast speeds meeting top PS5 requirements
- Includes multiple cooling solutions for optimal thermal management
- Comprehensive package with installation tools
- Highly tested for durability and stability
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Cons:
- Brand may be less familiar compared to mainstream SSD manufacturers
- Some users might prefer a pre-installed metal heatsink over the composite/extra heatsink approach
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User Impressions: Reviewers are highly positive about the MOVE SPEED HB7450, often highlighting its impressive speed and the convenience of having both a built-in and an extra heatsink included. PS5 users particularly appreciate the ease of installation and the noticeable improvement in game loading times.
10. Crucial P310 1TB PCIe Gen4 2280 NVMe M.2 SSD with
Crucial is a well-respected name in memory and storage, and their P310 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD aims to provide next-level performance designed with PS5 in mind. While the P310 offers commendable Gen4 speeds up to 7,100MB/s, making it a viable option for a best budget M.2 SSD for PS5, its particular features lean into overall productivity alongside gaming. The integrated heatsink is a big plus for PS5 compatibility, ensuring it fits and functions seamlessly within the console.
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Key Features:
- Next-level Gen4 performance up to 7,100MB/s
- Integrated heatsink designed to fit and work with PlayStation 5 consoles
- Nearly 20% faster performance in bootups and gameplay
- Up to 20% faster performance in real-world tasks
- Up to 40% better performance-to-power ratio than previous Gen4 SSDs
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Pros:
- Good Gen4 speeds meeting PS5 requirements
- Integrated heatsink for easy PS5 installation
- Reputable brand with a strong track record
- Focus on power efficiency and overall system responsiveness
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Cons:
- Only 1TB capacity available in this particular offering, which might be limiting for some.
- While good, speeds might not reach the absolute peak of some other Gen4 drives.
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User Impressions: Users generally find the Crucial P310 to be a solid performer, delivering noticeable speed improvements for both gaming and general PC use. PS5 owners appreciate the integrated heatsink and the straightforward installation process, considering it a reliable upgrade from a trusted brand.
Frequently Asked Questions about PS5 M.2 SSDs
Adding an M.2 SSD to your PS5 is a fantastic upgrade, but you might have a few questions before diving in. Here are some of the most common ones:
Q1: What speed do I need for a PS5 SSD?
A1: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. All the drives listed in our “best budget M.2 SSD for PS5” article meet or exceed this requirement, ensuring optimal performance for your games.
Q2: Is a heatsink necessary for a PS5 SSD?
A2: Yes, a heatsink is crucial for a PS5 SSD. The PS5’s internal M.2 slot does not have sufficient passive cooling on its own. A heatsink helps dissipate heat, preventing the SSD from throttling (slowing down) during extended gaming sessions and ensuring consistent performance. Many drives now come with integrated heatsinks, or you can purchase one separately.
Q3: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A3: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is a relatively simple process that doesn’t require advanced technical skills. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. Sony provides clear instructions on their official support page. It typically involves removing the PS5’s side plate, unscrewing a cover, inserting the SSD into the slot, and then securing it.
Q4: What capacity M.2 SSD should I get for PS5?
A4: The ideal capacity depends on your gaming habits.
– 1TB: Good for moderate gamers, offering space for about 15-20 large games.
– 2TB: Our recommended sweet spot for most users, providing ample room for 30-40+ games. This is where you often find the best budget M.2 SSD for PS5 in terms of price-per-gigabyte.
– 4TB or more: Ideal for hardcore gamers with massive libraries who rarely want to delete anything.
Q5: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A5: No, installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 will not void your warranty. Sony specifically designed the console with an accessible M.2 slot for user upgrades. Just make sure to follow Sony’s official installation guidelines.
Q6: Can I use any M.2 SSD with my PS5?
A6: Not just any M.2 SSD. It must be an NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD, not Gen3. It also needs to meet Sony’s minimum speed requirement of 5,500 MB/s and, critically, must have a heatsink. The physical size (2280 form factor) is also important to ensure it fits in the slot.
Q7: What’s the difference between “budget” and “premium” SSDs for PS5?
A7: While both “budget” and “premium” SSDs for PS5 can meet the console’s speed requirements, the main differences often lie in:
– Peak Speed: Premium drives might offer slightly higher peak read/write speeds.
– Endurance (TBW): Premium drives might have higher Terabytes Written (TBW) ratings, indicating longer lifespan under heavy use.
– Brand Recognition/Warranty: Premium brands often come with a perceived higher trust level and robust support.
– Included Features: Some premium drives come with pre-installed, optimized heatsinks or official licensing, while “budget” options might require a separate heatsink purchase or have a simpler cooling solution.
However, for pure PS5 gaming, many budget-friendly PCIe Gen4 SSDs offer performance that’s virtually indistinguishable from their more expensive counterparts during actual gameplay.
Ready to Expand Your PS5?
Upgrading your PS5’s storage with an M.2 SSD is one of the best ways to enhance your gaming experience, letting you keep more games installed and jump into the action faster. Whether you prioritize absolute raw speed, official PlayStation licensing, or the ultimate balance of performance and cost, there’s a best budget M.2 SSD for PS5 out there for you.
Consider your needs, check out our recommendations, and finally say goodbye to deleting games to make room! Happy gaming!