Is your PlayStation 5 storage bursting at the seams? With massive game files becoming the norm, it’s not long before that initial 825GB (or less, after system files) feels incredibly cramped. If you’re tired of constantly deleting games to make space for new ones, it’s time to consider an upgrade. And when it comes to finding a reliable, high-performance, and still affordable option, Lexar often hits that sweet spot.
But what exactly makes for the Lexar best cheap SSD for PS5? It’s not just about the lowest price; it’s about getting great value, excellent speeds, and proper compatibility. You need an SSD that meets Sony’s specific requirements to ensure seamless gameplay and fast load times. We’re here to dive into the top Lexar options that will let you expand your PS5’s horizons without breaking the bank.
Why Expand Your PS5 Storage?
Modern gaming titles are huge. Seriously, we’re talking 100GB+ for many AAA games. The PS5’s internal storage, while fast, simply isn’t enough for a growing game library. Expanding your storage means:
- More Games, Less Deleting: Keep all your favorites installed and ready to play.
- Faster Load Times: NVMe SSDs dramatically cut down on waiting, getting you into the action quicker.
- Future-Proofing: Prepare for even bigger games coming down the pipeline.
- Seamless Gaming: Play PS5 games directly from a compatible internal SSD, or store PS5 games and play PS4 titles from an external drive.
What to Look for in a PS5 SSD?
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly go over the key things to consider when picking an SSD for your PlayStation 5:
- Internal vs. External:
- Internal (M.2 NVMe): This is what you need to play PS5 games directly from the expanded storage. It installs inside the console.
- External (USB Portable): Great for storing PS5 games (you’ll need to move them to the internal drive to play them) and playing PS4 games directly. More versatile for other devices.
- Speed: For internal PS5 SSDs, Sony requires a PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. Faster is always better! For external drives, USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) or Gen 2×2 (20Gbps) offers excellent transfer rates.
- Heatsink: Crucial for internal PS5 SSDs. The PS5 runs hot, and a heatsink prevents thermal throttling, ensuring consistent performance. Many Lexar drives come with one pre-attached.
- Capacity: Think about your gaming habits. 1TB is a good starting point, but 2TB or even 4TB gives you much more breathing room.
- Price: We’re looking for the Lexar best cheap SSD for PS5, so we’ll highlight options that give you the best bang for your buck without sacrificing essential performance.
Let’s dive into the Lexar lineup and find the perfect SSD for your PS5!
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
If you’re looking to significantly upgrade your PS5’s storage for playing the latest titles directly, the Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink is an outstanding choice. This drive ticks all the boxes for PlayStation 5 compatibility, offering blistering speeds and a pre-attached heatsink, ensuring your system stays cool even during the most intense gaming marathons. It’s a fantastic all-rounder for anyone who needs reliable, high-speed internal expansion.
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Key Features:
- [1TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1000TBW (Terabytes Written endurance)
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool 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 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for a smoother transfer speed and seamless performance
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Exceeds PS5 speed requirements comfortably
- Integrated heatsink simplifies installation and ensures optimal thermal management
- Excellent endurance rating for long-term use
- Energy-efficient design
- Great value for a high-performance 1TB PS5-ready SSD
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Cons:
- 1TB might still feel limited for extremely large game libraries
- Installation requires opening the PS5 console
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User Impressions: Gamers love the NM790 for its straightforward installation and noticeable speed boost. Many report seamless gameplay and significantly reduced load times, confirming it’s a solid, budget-friendly choice that performs like a premium drive.
Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe
For the serious gamer who hates deleting anything, the Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink is an absolute dream. This beast of a drive is specifically designed with the PS5 in mind, offering a massive amount of storage alongside speeds that will make your games load in a flash. The integrated heatsink and specific PS5 compatibility make it a premium, yet value-driven, option for maxing out your console’s capabilities.
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Key Features:
- Designed to coordinate with your PS5, the Lexar PLAY 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD is made to enhance your gaming experience.
- 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds ensure reduced load times and deliver seamless gameplay.
- 4TB: 3200TBW (Terabytes Written endurance)
- Tested and approved storage for your PS5 console, this SSD allows you to play games right off the drive. There’s no need to transfer or delete games from your console.
- Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling during intense gaming sessions.
- Lexar PLAY 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD can be used not only for PS5 but also for PC gaming. HMB and SLC Dynamic cache deliver improved performance, accelerated data access speeds, and enhanced overall responsiveness when used with a PC.
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB capacity
- Optimized and tested for PS5, ensuring full compatibility
- Top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds for ultra-fast loading
- Integrated heatsink for robust thermal performance
- High endurance rating for longevity
- Versatile for both PS5 and PC gaming
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Cons:
- Higher upfront cost due to large capacity
- Installation still requires opening the PS5
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User Impressions: Users praise this drive for its incredible storage space, virtually eliminating the need to manage game installs. The performance on PS5 is consistently reported as excellent, making it a favorite for those wanting a “set it and forget it” solution.
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink is arguably the sweet spot for many PS5 users. It doubles the storage of the 1TB model while retaining the same fantastic performance and crucial integrated heatsink. This capacity offers a great balance between space and affordability, allowing you to house a substantial game library without constant shuffling. It’s a prime example of a Lexar best cheap SSD for PS5 that doesn’t compromise on quality or speed.
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Key Features:
- [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1500TBW (Terabytes Written endurance)
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool 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 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for a smoother transfer speed and seamless performance
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Ideal 2TB capacity for most gamers
- Outstanding Gen4 speeds exceed PS5 requirements
- Pre-installed heatsink for optimal thermal performance
- Good endurance rating and power efficiency
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
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Cons:
- Installation requires opening the PS5 console
- May still be too small for hoarders of digital games
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User Impressions: This 2TB version receives widespread acclaim for its perfect blend of capacity, speed, and value. Users consistently highlight its ease of installation and the instant relief of having ample space for their favorite PS5 titles.
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
While not an internal expansion, the Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD offers fantastic versatility for your PS5 setup. This portable drive is perfect for storing PS5 games to free up internal space, or for playing your entire PS4 library directly. Its compact, durable design makes it easy to carry around, and its USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds ensure quick transfers. It’s an excellent solution for flexible storage needs beyond just internal expansion.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: Supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Wide Compatibility: Compatible with iPhone 15 series, Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming console, and more
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g and is only 10.5mm thick, making it smaller than a card and easily fits in your pocket. Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files.
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version
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Pros:
- Excellent portable speeds for external storage
- Broad compatibility beyond just PS5
- Extremely compact and lightweight design
- Includes data encryption for security
- Plug-and-play convenience
- Great for PS4 game storage and playing
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Cons:
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from this drive
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds are slower than internal PCIe Gen4 SSDs
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User Impressions: Users love the ES3 for its portability and rugged build. It’s often praised for its fast file transfers, making it a go-to for backing up large files or expanding PS4 game libraries on the PS5.
Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
Stepping up the external storage game, the Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD is a powerhouse of speed and capacity. With USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance, it offers double the transfer rates of standard Gen 2 drives, making it incredibly fast for moving large files. This makes it a stellar choice for not only storing PS5 games efficiently but also playing PS4 games with near-internal speed. Its sleek, durable design is just a bonus.
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Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, as well as Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures even at top speeds
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files
- Product dimensions and weight: 3.3” x 2.1” x 0.3”; 0.095 lbs.
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Exceptional external transfer speeds (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- Generous 2TB capacity
- Robust metal casing with excellent thermal control
- Highly versatile for multiple devices, including iPhone 15 Pro recording
- Portable and stylish
- Includes encryption software
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port to achieve maximum speeds (PS5 ports are generally Gen 2)
- Still cannot play PS5 games directly from the drive
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User Impressions: Customers are thrilled with the SL500’s blazing fast speeds, especially when used with compatible devices. Its solid build quality and reliability for large file transfers make it a top pick for external storage needs.
Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal SSD
The Lexar 1TB NM1090 PRO is an absolute beast designed for the cutting edge of PC performance, boasting PCIe Gen5 technology. While the PlayStation 5 currently utilizes PCIe Gen4, this drive is backward compatible and can be used in a PS5 M.2 slot. However, it will only perform at Gen4 speeds, and its physical dimensions (especially with a pre-attached Gen5-grade heatsink, if applicable) might be a tighter fit or even incompatible with the PS5’s M.2 slot cover depending on the model. For raw speed and future-proofing on a PC, it’s incredible; for PS5, it’s significant overkill and may not be the most cost-effective or physically ideal solution compared to a dedicated Gen4 drive.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 5.0 technology delivers blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/10,000 MB/s (on compatible platforms)
- Accelerates load times by 200% – great with AMD Ryzen and Intel i9
- A powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control for a smoother experience and more efficient performance
- A perfect internal SSD for AI PCs: reduces bottlenecks and accelerates AI model training, inferencing, and real-time data processing
- DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds to reduce wait times and improve system responsiveness
- Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads, minimize delays, conserve CPU power, and enrich the gaming experience
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Pros:
- Absolutely phenomenal speeds for future-proof PC builds
- Advanced 6nm controller for efficiency and heat management
- DRAM Cache for consistent high performance
- Great for cutting-edge PC gaming and professional applications
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Cons:
- Massive overkill and generally not the Lexar best cheap SSD for PS5 as the PS5 cannot utilize PCIe Gen5 speeds.
- Higher price point compared to equally performing Gen4 drives for PS5.
- Physical dimensions, especially of heatsink, might cause compatibility issues with PS5 M.2 cover.
- More suited for high-end PC builds than a PS5 upgrade.
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User Impressions: PC users rave about its groundbreaking speed, making it a top contender for next-gen builds. For PS5 users, while it would technically work, it’s usually advised to stick with Gen4 for better value and guaranteed fit.
Lexar 1TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
The 1TB version of the Lexar SL500 Portable SSD offers the same incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance as its 2TB sibling but in a more budget-friendly capacity. This drive is perfect if you need super-fast external storage for PS4 games, or for quickly moving PS5 games on and off your internal drive. Its robust build, slim profile, and excellent speeds make it a standout choice for flexible storage that goes wherever you do.
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Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, as well as Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures even at top speeds
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files
- Product dimensions and weight: 3.3” x 2.1” x 0.3”; 0.095 lbs.
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Blazing fast external transfer speeds (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2)
- Compact, durable, and stylish metal design
- Excellent thermal management for sustained performance
- Highly versatile for use across various devices
- Ideal for PS4 game storage and fast PS5 game transfers
- Comes with encryption software
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Cons:
- PS5 does not support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for max speeds, capping it at Gen 2 rates
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from an external drive
- 1TB may be limiting for those with very large PS4 libraries
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User Impressions: Users highly rate the 1TB SL500 for its robust performance in a portable package. Its speed, even when not fully utilized by the PS5’s ports, is still impressive for external needs, and its durable design is a big plus.
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD (Second Entry)
This is a second listing for the Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, highlighting its consistency and popularity as a go-to portable storage solution. Its blend of solid USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, robust compatibility, and extremely portable design make it an excellent choice for expanding your PS5’s utility, whether you’re offloading games or just needing a fast, secure drive for general use. It’s a pragmatic and affordable external option.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: Lexar external SSD ES3 supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write to transfer files fast for more efficient work.
- Wide Compatibility: Lexar Portable SSD ES3 compatibility with iPhone 15 series (Not supported on iPhone 14 and older models), Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming console, and more
- On The Go: Lexar external solid state drive ES3’s thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g and is only 10.5mm thick, making it smaller than a card and easily fits in your pocket. It comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Data Safety First: Lexar SSD ES3 includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files.
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version.
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Pros:
- Reliable USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds for quick transfers
- Highly portable and durable metal casing
- Broad device compatibility, including PS5 and mobile devices
- Data encryption for enhanced security
- Excellent for storing PS5 games and playing PS4 titles
- Very good value for external storage
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Cons:
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from this external drive
- Speeds are limited compared to internal NVMe options
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User Impressions: The consistent positive feedback for the ES3 model emphasizes its reliability, compact size, and good performance for its price point. It’s often recommended for users who prioritize portability and general-purpose fast external storage.
Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s
When maximum external storage is your goal, the Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD delivers in spades. Combining a colossal 4TB capacity with the blistering speeds of USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, this drive offers an unparalleled solution for archiving a huge game library, professional media projects, or just massive data backup. While PS5 won’t hit its absolute peak speeds, it still provides an incredibly fast and versatile external drive for game storage and PS4 game playback.
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Key Features:
- Incredible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 performance of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write
- Thin, lightweight, and durable metal design easily fits in your pocket
- Supports Apple Pro Res recording – shoot directly to the drive in up to 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
- Wide compatibility with mobile devices, iPhone 15/16 series, laptops, cameras, as well as Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, and more
- Unique Thermal Control Design ensures optimal temperatures even at top speeds
- Equipped with a Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files
- Product dimensions and weight: 3.3” x 2.1” x 0.3”; 0.095 lbs.
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB storage capacity
- Exceptional USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 speeds (though capped on PS5)
- Premium metal construction with excellent thermal control
- Highly versatile for cross-device usage, including iPhone Pro recording
- Ideal for comprehensive PS4 game libraries and PS5 game archives
- Includes data encryption
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to large capacity and advanced USB standard
- PS5’s USB ports limit the theoretical max speed of Gen 2×2
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from the external drive
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User Impressions: This 4TB model is highly valued by users who need vast amounts of fast, portable storage. Its reliability and speed make it suitable for power users across various platforms, especially those dealing with large media files or extensive game collections.
Lexar ES3 2TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD
The Lexar ES3 2TB External SSD offers a fantastic middle-ground for external storage, blending ample capacity with strong USB 3.2 Gen 2 performance. It’s an ideal partner for your PS5 if you’re looking to significantly expand your PS4 game library for direct play, or if you need a reliable, fast way to archive dozens of PS5 titles. Its ultra-portable design and broad compatibility also make it a workhorse for all your digital needs beyond gaming.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: Lexar external SSD ES3 supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Wide Compatibility: Lexar Portable SSD ES3 compatibility with iPhone 15 series (Not supported on iPhone 14 and older models), Android mobile devices, laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5, gaming console, and more
- On The Go: Lexar external solid state drive ES3’s thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g and is only 10.5mm thick, making it smaller than a card and easily fits in your pocket. It comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Data Safety First: Lexar SSD ES3 includes Lexar DataShield™ 256-bit AES encryption software to protect files.
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version.
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Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity for extensive game libraries
- Solid USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds for quick transfers and PS4 game playback
- Extremely compact, lightweight, and durable design
- Broad compatibility with various devices
- Includes data encryption for added security
- Excellent value for external storage
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Cons:
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from the drive
- Speeds are limited compared to internal PCIe Gen4 SSDs
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the 2TB ES3 for its excellent balance of capacity and portability. It’s a highly recommended solution for those wanting a reliable and fast external drive for both gaming and everyday file management.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Lexar PS5 SSD
Choosing the Lexar best cheap SSD for PS5 really comes down to your specific needs. If you want to expand your PS5’s playable game library internally, look no further than the Lexar NM790 (1TB or 2TB with heatsink) or the Lexar Play SSD with Heatsink (4TB). These drives meet and exceed Sony’s requirements, offering blistering speeds and integrated cooling for seamless performance. They truly deliver fantastic value for a high-quality PS5 upgrade.
If external flexibility is more your style, perhaps for storing PS5 games or playing your vast PS4 backlog, the Lexar ES3 and SL500 portable SSDs are excellent choices. They offer great speeds, robust designs, and incredible versatility for a range of devices.
Ultimately, Lexar offers a strong lineup that provides both performance and affordability, making them a top contender for any PlayStation 5 owner looking to boost their storage without breaking the bank. Happy gaming!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use any SSD with my PS5?
A1: No, not just any SSD will work for internal expansion. For playing PS5 games directly, you need a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. It must also be physically compatible with the PS5’s M.2 slot and preferably include a heatsink. For external storage (for PS4 games or archiving PS5 games), most USB 3.0 or faster external SSDs will work.
Q2: Do I need an SSD with a heatsink for PS5?
A2: Yes, Sony strongly recommends an M.2 SSD with a heatsink for internal PS5 storage expansion. The PS5’s operating environment can get quite warm, and a heatsink helps dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring consistent, high-performance gameplay over long sessions.
Q3: What’s the difference between internal and external SSDs for PS5?
A3: An internal M.2 NVMe SSD is installed inside the PS5 console and allows you to play PS5 games directly from it. An external USB SSD plugs into a USB port. You can store PS5 games on it, but you’ll need to transfer them back to the internal storage (either the console’s main drive or your M.2 expansion) to play them. However, you can play PS4 games directly from an external USB SSD.
Q4: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
A4: No, you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external USB SSD. PS5 games must be stored on the console’s internal SSD or an internally installed, compatible M.2 NVMe SSD to be playable. External SSDs are great for archiving PS5 games (to save space on your internal drive) and for playing PS4 games.
Q5: How much storage do I need for my PS5?
A5: This depends on your gaming habits. The PS5 comes with roughly 667GB of usable space. A 1TB M.2 SSD expansion nearly doubles this. Many users find 2TB to be the sweet spot, offering plenty of room for a large library of PS5 titles. For extreme gamers, 4TB ensures you’ll rarely have to delete anything.
Q6: Are Lexar SSDs reliable for PS5?
A6: Yes, Lexar is a reputable brand known for producing quality memory and storage solutions. Their PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs, especially those specifically marketed with PS5 compatibility and heatsinks, are designed to meet or exceed Sony’s specifications, offering reliable performance and durability for your console.
Q7: What is PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2?
A7: PCIe Gen4 refers to the fourth generation of the Peripheral Component Interconnect Express interface, which provides very high data transfer speeds. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a communication protocol specifically designed for SSDs to maximize their performance over PCIe. M.2 is a physical form factor for these SSDs, resembling a small stick of RAM. The PS5 requires a drive with these specifications for internal expansion due to the high bandwidth needed for its games.