Running out of space on your PlayStation 5? Feeling those load times drag a bit too long? You’re not alone! As game sizes balloon, the PS5’s internal 825GB SSD (with only about 667GB usable) fills up fast. But don’t fret – you can easily expand your console’s storage and even boost performance with a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD. Finding the best M.2 SSD for PS5 can seem daunting with so many options, but we’re here to help you pick the perfect one.
Upgrading your PS5’s internal storage isn’t just about getting more room for games; it’s about ensuring your console continues to deliver that lightning-fast performance you bought it for. Sony requires M.2 NVMe SSDs that meet specific criteria: PCIe Gen4 technology, a minimum read speed of 5,500 MB/s, and a heatsink to prevent thermal throttling. Stick with these recommendations, and you’ll be playing your favorite titles directly from your expanded storage with no fuss!
We’ve rounded up 10 top-tier M.2 SSDs that fit the bill perfectly for your PS5, offering fantastic speeds, reliability, and the much-needed space for your ever-growing game library. Let’s dive in!
1. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a serious contender for the best M.2 SSD for PS5 if you’re looking for bleeding-edge performance. This drive isn’t just fast; it’s built for gamers, offering read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s that will make load screens virtually disappear. With its optional heatsink, it’s perfectly poised to handle the sustained demands of PS5 gaming, keeping your drive cool and performing optimally even during intense sessions. This 2TB variant gives you plenty of room to download all the latest blockbusters without having to delete cherished titles.
Key Features:
– Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s read.
– Capacities up to 8TB with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
– Optional heatsink version available for sustained performance.
– WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for monitoring and Game Mode 2.0.
– Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
Pros:
– Exceptional read/write speeds, exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Reliable Western Digital brand.
– Heatsink option ensures optimal thermal performance.
– Large capacity options for extensive game libraries.
Cons:
– WD_BLACK Dashboard features are Windows-only.
– Heatsink version might be slightly more expensive.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the SN850X for its blazing-fast speeds and reliable performance on their PS5s. Many note the ease of installation and the noticeable reduction in game load times. The integrated heatsink is a big plus for peace of mind during long gaming sessions.
2. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM790 with its integrated heatsink is an excellent choice for PS5 owners seeking a high-performance, power-efficient upgrade. This SSD boasts impressive read speeds of up to 7400MB/s and write speeds of 6500MB/s, making it twice as fast as PCIe Gen 3 SSDs. What truly sets it apart is its low power consumption, up to 40% less than DRAM cache-enabled Gen 4 drives, which is great for the console’s longevity. Plus, it comes with a 5-year limited warranty, offering great peace of mind.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
– Designed with a heatsink for improved thermal management.
– Up to 40% less power consumption than comparable PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother performance.
– Fully compatible with PlayStation 5.
– Five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Top-tier speeds well above PS5’s minimums.
– Integrated heatsink for plug-and-play installation.
– Energy-efficient design.
– Excellent value for performance.
Cons:
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) might not appeal to users preferring dedicated DRAM cache.
User Impressions: PS5 users often highlight the Lexar NM790’s impressive speed-to-price ratio. Its easy installation due to the pre-attached heatsink and its reliable performance in the PS5 are frequently mentioned positives. Gamers love how quickly their games load.
3. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
For ultimate peace of mind and seamless integration, the WD_BLACK SN850P is specifically officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles. This means compatibility is guaranteed, and you won’t have to worry about whether it meets Sony’s stringent requirements – it absolutely does! With read speeds up to 7,300MB/s and a brand-new, optimized heatsink designed for the PS5, this drive lets you play directly from it without any slowdowns. Plus, some models even come with a PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe trial, which is a nice bonus!
Key Features:
– Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles.
– Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, storing up to 100 games (4TB model).
– Optimized heatsink for easy, worry-free installation into the PS5’s M.2 slot.
– Play directly from the drive with tested and approved storage.
– PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
– Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe (with some models).
Pros:
– Guaranteed compatibility with PS5 due to official licensing.
– High speeds for fast game loading.
– Heatsink specifically designed for PS5.
– Ample storage for extensive game collections.
Cons:
– Often at a premium price point due to official licensing.
– PlayStation Plus trial is a limited-time offer.
User Impressions: Users love the “set it and forget it” aspect of this officially licensed drive. They report flawless installation and exceptional performance, emphasizing the comfort of knowing it’s fully supported by Sony. The speed increase is immediately noticeable.
4. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a powerhouse, truly pushing the limits of PCIe 4.0 performance. As Samsung is the world’s #1 flash memory brand, you’re getting cutting-edge technology and reliability. With incredible read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, this SSD handles heavy computing and lightning-fast game loading with ease. Its ultra-slim integrated heatsink is designed with PS5 in mind, ensuring efficient heat dissipation to keep performance stable, making it an ideal choice for serious gamers.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
– More than 55% improvement in random performance over 980 PRO.
– Ultra-slim Integrated Heatsink designed to dissipate heat effectively.
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard devices.
– Available in storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
Pros:
– One of the fastest consumer SSDs on the market.
– Renowned Samsung reliability and performance.
– Efficient, slim heatsink design fits PS5 perfectly.
– Excellent for gaming, video editing, and data analysis.
Cons:
– Premium price tag.
User Impressions: Reviewers often describe the 990 PRO as “unbeatable” for its raw speed and consistent performance. PS5 owners specifically mention how easy the heatsink version is to install and how it completely eliminates any storage concerns, greatly enhancing their gaming experience.
5. WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
While the SN850X is Western Digital’s top-tier offering, the WD_BLACK SN7100 is a fantastic option that balances high performance with potentially better value. It delivers impressive speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write, making it well above the PS5’s minimum requirements. Designed for serious gamers, it features Western Digital’s next-generation TLC 3D NAND and is built with efficiency in mind. While it doesn’t come with a pre-installed heatsink, it’s still a solid foundation for your PS5 expansion if you plan to add one yourself.
Key Features:
– High-octane gaming speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write.
– Purpose-built with a PCIe Gen4 interface and next-generation TLC 3D NAND.
– Available in multiple capacities up to 4TB.
– Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
– Compatible with downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only).
– Up to 2,400TBW endurance (4TB model).
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for PS5 gaming.
– Good power efficiency.
– High endurance rating for demanding use.
– Potentially more affordable without a pre-installed heatsink (allowing for custom heatsink).
Cons:
– Does not include a heatsink (must be purchased separately for PS5 compatibility).
– Dashboard software is Windows-only.
User Impressions: Users appreciate the SN7100 as a reliable and fast storage solution. Many choose to pair it with an aftermarket heatsink for PS5 use and report seamless integration and significant improvements in game loading. It’s seen as a strong performer for its price.
6. Fikwot FX910 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD for PS5 & PC, PCIe Gen4
The Fikwot FX910 is a compelling choice for both PS5 and PC users looking for extreme performance without breaking the bank. This M.2 NVMe SSD pushes speeds up to 7300MB/s read and 6200MB/s write via PCIe 4.0, ensuring quick boot-ups and smooth multitasking across your devices. It comes with a built-in graphite heatsink, which is a big win for PS5 compatibility, keeping the drive cool and stable even under heavy load. Its “plug-and-play” simplicity and a 5-year guarantee make it an appealing option.
Key Features:
– Extreme performance: up to 7300MB/s read and 6200MB/s write via PCIe 4.0.
– Built-in graphite heatsink for advanced cooling.
– Wide compatibility with PS5 and desktop PCs.
– Up to 4TB large capacity options.
– Easy plug-and-play installation with no driver required.
– 5-year after-sales service and 24/7 support.
Pros:
– Very competitive speeds for the price point.
– Integrated heatsink is convenient for PS5.
– Wide compatibility for flexible use.
– Good warranty and support.
Cons:
– Brand might be less recognized than established names (though performance speaks for itself).
User Impressions: Many users are pleasantly surprised by the Fikwot FX910’s performance relative to its cost. PS5 owners specifically mention that the built-in heatsink makes installation a breeze and that the drive performs flawlessly, easily handling large game files and significantly reducing load times.
7. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 is specifically designed with PS5 compatibility in mind, offering a fantastic balance of speed, capacity, and convenience. This M.2 SSD utilizes cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, delivering impressive read/write speeds of up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s. What makes it stand out is its integrated 1mm graphene composite heatsink, designed to keep the chip cool and prevent performance degradation. The package even includes an additional heatsink (not installed), screws, and a screwdriver, making installation as easy as can be.
Key Features:
– NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High-Speed Interface with up to 7450MB/s read and 6500MB/s write.
– Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC.
– M.2 2280 form factor with large storage capacities up to 2TB.
– Utilizes high-quality 3D NAND flash memory chips and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
– Built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink for strong cooling.
– Package includes an additional heatsink, screws, and screwdriver for easy installation.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds, surpassing PS5 requirements.
– Comes with all necessary installation tools and an integrated heatsink.
– Rigorously tested for stability and longevity.
– High capacity for storing many games.
Cons:
– The additional heatsink needs to be installed manually if desired.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend the MOVE SPEED HB7450 for its comprehensive package and ease of installation. PS5 gamers are very happy with the rapid loading times and stable performance, noting that the included heatsink is a big plus for hassle-free setup.
8. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen 4×4, Gen
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus is another solid offering from a brand synonymous with quality SSDs. While it supports both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2, its Gen 4 performance is what makes it a contender for the best M.2 SSD for PS5. It offers sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s, making it incredibly fast for game transfers and loading. Its efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller helps maintain thermal control, ensuring stable performance without overheating. Plus, Samsung’s Magician Software keeps your drive optimized and up-to-date.
Key Features:
– Groundbreaking sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.
– Large storage capacity with Intelligent TurboWrite 2.0.
– Exceptional thermal control via an efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller.
– Optimized to support both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 (though PS5 uses Gen4).
– Magician Software for firmware updates, encryption, and health monitoring.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds for PS5 gaming.
– Samsung’s reputation for reliability.
– Efficient thermal management for stable performance.
– Magician software is a useful tool for maintenance.
Cons:
– Does not include a heatsink (must be purchased separately for PS5 compatibility).
– PCIe 5.0 capabilities are not fully utilized by PS5.
User Impressions: Users often point to the 990 EVO Plus as a highly reliable and fast drive. For PS5 users, once an appropriate heatsink is added, the drive performs flawlessly, greatly reducing load times and allowing for a much larger game library. Its stability under heavy use is frequently highlighted.
9. Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe x4 Gen4
The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX is purpose-built for the PlayStation 5, easily exceeding all of Sony’s M.2 performance requirements. This PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD boasts sequential read speeds up to 7,100MB/sec and write speeds up to 6,800MB/sec. What truly makes it PS5-ready is its pre-installed, low-profile aluminum heatsink, designed to fit perfectly within the PS5’s expansion slot and effectively disperse heat. This ensures your SSD maintains sustained high performance right out of the box, making game loads faster than ever.
Key Features:
– Extreme Gen4 storage performance with up to 7,100MB/sec read and 6,800MB/sec write speeds.
– High-speed PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe 1.4 Interface.
– Available in capacities up to 4TB.
– Exceeds all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements.
– Pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatsink to reduce throttling.
Pros:
– Specifically designed and tested for PS5 compatibility.
– Pre-installed heatsink for easy installation.
– Excellent speeds for rapid game loading.
– Robust brand reputation.
Cons:
– Price might be on the higher end due to specialized design.
User Impressions: PS5 users love the Corsair MP600 PRO LPX for its “perfect fit” and “easy installation” thanks to the low-profile heatsink. They consistently report a noticeable boost in game loading times and smooth performance directly from the drive, making it a highly recommended upgrade.
10. fanxiang 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD for
The fanxiang S880E is a formidable 4TB NVMe SSD that offers extreme PCIe 4.0 performance, making it a dream come true for hardcore gamers and professionals alike. With sequential read/write speeds of up to 7300/6300 MB/s, it delivers incredibly fast loads for an extreme gaming experience, fully compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage. What’s more, its unique sticker design incorporates graphite-coated copper foil and aluminum foil layers for efficient thermal control, helping maintain peak performance even during high-graphic gaming sessions.
Key Features:
– PCIe 4.0 SSD Extreme Performance: up to 7300/6300 MB/s read/write speeds.
– Supports NVMe 2.0 technology.
– Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage.
– Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
– Efficient Thermal Control via a specially designed sticker with graphite and aluminum foil layers.
– 5-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support.
Pros:
– Massive 4TB capacity for an enormous game library.
– Excellent PCIe 4.0 speeds, ideal for PS5.
– Innovative thermal control solution without a bulky heatsink.
– Strong warranty and support.
Cons:
– Some users might prefer a more traditional heatsink.
User Impressions: Users are impressed by the sheer capacity and speed offered by the fanxiang S880E. PS5 owners find it particularly appealing for its ability to hold a vast number of games, and they report smooth, lag-free gameplay with significantly reduced load times. The unique cooling solution is often noted as effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about PS5 SSDs
Q1: What are the exact requirements for an M.2 SSD to work with my PS5?
A1: Sony requires an M.2 NVMe SSD (Key M) that supports PCIe Gen4 x4. The minimum sequential read speed must be 5,500 MB/s (or faster). The capacity can range from 250GB to 8TB. Crucially, you must use an M.2 SSD with an effective heatsink (built-in or added separately) to prevent thermal throttling. The physical dimensions of the SSD with the heatsink must also fit within the PS5’s M.2 expansion slot (max 110mm L x 25mm W x 11.25mm H).
Q2: Do I really need a heatsink for my PS5 SSD?
A2: Yes, absolutely. Sony strongly recommends using a heatsink. M.2 NVMe SSDs, especially high-speed PCIe Gen4 ones, can generate significant heat under sustained load. Without a heatsink, the drive can overheat, leading to performance throttling (slowing down) and potentially shortening its lifespan. It’s a non-negotiable component for optimal PS5 performance.
Q3: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A3: The installation process is relatively straightforward. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. First, power off and unplug your PS5. Carefully remove the bottom cover of your console (the one without the PlayStation logo). Locate the M.2 expansion slot, remove its cover screw, insert the SSD at an angle, secure it with the provided spacer and screw, and then reattach the covers. Sony provides a detailed video guide on their support website, which is highly recommended to follow.
Q4: Can I use any M.2 SSD with my PS5?
A4: No. As mentioned, the SSD must meet specific requirements: PCIe Gen4 x4 interface, a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s, and it must have a heatsink. Many older or cheaper M.2 SSDs might be PCIe Gen3 or have slower speeds, making them incompatible or suboptimal for the PS5. Always check the specifications carefully.
Q5: Will installing an M.2 SSD improve game performance on my PS5, or just add storage?
A5: Primarily, it adds storage space, allowing you to install more games. However, since the M.2 SSDs compatible with the PS5 are often as fast as, or even faster than, the console’s internal drive, you might experience slightly faster game loading times for games installed on the new SSD. For games that require very high bandwidth, you might even see a slight improvement in asset streaming.
Q6: What capacity SSD should I get for my PS5?
A6: This depends on your gaming habits. Given that modern games can be 50-100GB or more, a 1TB SSD is a good starting point for most users. However, if you have a large digital library or play many Call of Duty-sized games, a 2TB or even 4TB SSD will give you much more breathing room and prevent you from constantly having to uninstall games.
Q7: Is it hard to install an M.2 SSD in the PS5 for someone who isn’t tech-savvy?
A7: While it might seem intimidating, the process is generally considered easy, even for those not tech-savvy. Sony designed the PS5’s M.2 slot for user accessibility. The most crucial part is being careful and gentle with the console’s components. Following a reliable video tutorial step-by-step can make the process smooth and worry-free.