Running out of space on your PlayStation 5? It’s a common gamer dilemma. Those stunning next-gen titles gobble up gigabytes faster than you can download them. Luckily, Sony gave us a fantastic solution: the ability to expand your console’s storage with a lightning-fast M.2 NVMe SSD. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best M.2 SSD for PS5?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting, diving deep into the world of high-speed storage to bring you a comprehensive guide. We’ll walk you through the top contenders, helping you find the perfect SSD to boost your PS5’s capacity and keep those loading screens to a minimum. Get ready to download more games and spend less time deleting your favorites!
Let’s find the best M.2 SSD for PS5 to supercharge your gaming experience.
Our Top Picks for the Best M.2 SSDs for PS5
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a powerhouse designed to give your gaming setup a serious shot in the arm. With blisteringly fast speeds, it’s not just an upgrade; it’s a transformation. This drive truly shines by offering top-tier performance for both PC and PS5 gamers, ensuring ridiculous load times become a thing of the past. The optional heatsink version is a massive plus, especially for the PS5, helping to keep temperatures in check during marathon gaming sessions.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- Available with an integrated heatsink for thermal management.
- Utilizes Western Digital TLC 3D NAND for robust performance.
- Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM) features.
- Capacities up to 8TB available.
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Pros:
- Extremely high read/write speeds, exceeding PS5 requirements.
- Integrated heatsink option is ideal for PS5.
- Large capacities allow for extensive game libraries.
- Designed specifically for gaming performance.
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Cons:
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows-only, so PS5 users won’t benefit from its monitoring tools.
- Premium price point.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise its incredible speed and reliability, noting a noticeable difference in game load times and overall system responsiveness. Many appreciate the peace of mind offered by the heatsink version for sustained performance.
- See it on Amazon here
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
Lexar’s NM790 with heatsink is an excellent choice for PlayStation 5 owners looking for a balance of high performance, efficiency, and PS5 compatibility. It stands out with its impressive speeds while also boasting significantly less power consumption compared to other DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs, making it a cool and efficient performer. The integrated heatsink simplifies installation and ensures optimal thermal regulation.
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Key Features:
- Read speeds up to 7400MB/s, write speeds up to 6500MB/s.
- Includes a pre-installed heatsink.
- Up to 40% less power consumption than comparable PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth transfers.
- Fully compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds well above PS5 recommendations.
- Built-in heatsink for easy PS5 installation and thermal stability.
- Energy-efficient design helps keep the console cooler.
- Excellent value for its performance.
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Cons:
- May not be as widely recognized as some other SSD brands.
- While fast, its write speeds are slightly lower than some top-tier competitors.
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User Impressions: Users commend the Lexar NM790 for its straightforward installation and immediate performance boost on their PS5 consoles. The included heatsink is a frequently highlighted convenience, and the overall reliability receives positive feedback.
- See it on Amazon here
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PlayStation 5
If you want absolute peace of mind, the WD_BLACK SN850P is your go-to. This M.2 SSD is officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles, meaning it’s been tested and approved directly by Sony and Western Digital for seamless compatibility and performance. Its optimized heatsink is tailor-made for the PS5’s M.2 slot, ensuring an easy, worry-free installation and consistent high-speed gameplay.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles.
- Optimized heatsink specifically designed for PS5.
- Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
- Available in capacities up to 4TB, storing up to 100 games (4TB model).
- Allows direct gameplay from the drive.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
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Pros:
- Guaranteed compatibility and performance for PS5 due to official licensing.
- Heatsink perfectly fits the PS5 M.2 slot.
- Top-tier speeds for uncompromised next-gen gaming.
- Bonus PlayStation Plus trial is a nice perk.
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Cons:
- Generally one of the more expensive options due to official licensing.
- The 14-day trial is only for new subscribers.
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User Impressions: PS5 owners love the “plug and play” nature of this drive, with many emphasizing the confidence that comes with an officially licensed product. Performance is universally praised, with users reporting identical or even improved loading times compared to the internal storage.
- See it on Amazon here
WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
While not officially licensed like its SN850P sibling, the WD_BLACK SN7100 is still a formidable contender. It delivers high-octane gaming performance with impressive read and write speeds, making it a robust choice for expanding your PS5 storage. Designed with power efficiency in mind, it’s also a great fit for laptops and handheld gaming devices, but its speed certainly makes it a viable option for a PS5 SSD.
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Key Features:
- Read speeds up to 7,250MB/s, write speeds up to 6,900MB/s (1-2TB models).
- PCIe Gen4 interface with Western Digital’s next-gen TLC 3D NAND.
- Available in capacities up to 4TB.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- High endurance ratings (up to 2,400TBW for 4TB model).
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds meeting and exceeding PS5 requirements.
- High power efficiency, potentially leading to less heat generation.
- Good endurance for heavy gaming and content creation.
- Strong performance-to-price ratio.
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Cons:
- Does not include a heatsink, which is essential for PS5 use (must be purchased separately).
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows-only.
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User Impressions: Users who paired this drive with an aftermarket heatsink report outstanding performance on their PS5s, with fast loading times and seamless gameplay. Its reliability and sustained speeds are frequently highlighted as major benefits.
- See it on Amazon here
SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
Samsung’s 990 PRO with Heatsink is a titan in the SSD world, renowned for its cutting-edge performance and reliability. This drive isn’t just fast; it’s designed to push the boundaries of PCIe 4.0, offering near-max transfer speeds that make it ideal for the most demanding gamers and content creators. The integrated, ultra-slim heatsink ensures optimal temperature control, making it perfectly suited for your PS5.
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Key Features:
- Blazing read speeds up to 7450 MB/s and write speeds up to 6900 MB/s.
- Integrated ultra-slim heatsink designed for effective heat dissipation.
- Significant improvement in random performance over previous generations.
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard.
- Backed by Samsung, the #1 flash memory brand.
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Pros:
- One of the fastest PCIe Gen 4 SSDs on the market, maximizing PS5 potential.
- Excellent integrated heatsink for sustained performance.
- Renowned Samsung reliability and brand trust.
- High endurance and stability for intensive tasks.
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Cons:
- Premium price point, often among the most expensive options.
- Might be overkill for users not needing the absolute peak performance.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Samsung 990 PRO for its unparalleled speed and rock-solid performance. PS5 owners note that it’s easy to install and that game loading is noticeably faster, often outperforming the console’s internal drive in certain scenarios.
- See it on Amazon here
Predator M.2 SSD 2TB GM7000 with DRAM Cache NVMe 1.4
The Predator GM7000 by Acer is built for high-performance gaming, making it a compelling option for a PS5 storage expansion. It boasts impressive sequential read and write speeds, leveraging the PCIe Gen4 standard to deliver a truly fluid experience. What sets it apart is its customized heat spreader and efficient power management, ensuring it stays cool and performs reliably even during intense gaming sessions.
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Key Features:
- Sequential read speeds up to 7400 MB/s, write speeds up to 6700 MB/s.
- Customized heat spreader for efficient heat dissipation.
- Integrated PMU for optimized energy efficiency.
- Includes free Acronis True Image clone software.
- Built with 3D NAND TLC and DRAM cache for reliability.
- 5-year limited warranty, covering up to 1300TBW.
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Pros:
- Excellent speeds well within PS5 requirements.
- Effective heat dissipation from the custom heat spreader.
- Energy-efficient operation.
- DRAM cache enhances performance and longevity.
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Cons:
- While it has a heat spreader, it might not be as robust as a full heatsink for PS5 requirements; users might want to confirm its PS5 compatibility.
- Acronis software is mostly useful for PC users.
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User Impressions: PC gamers laud its speed and cool operation. For PS5, users appreciate its high performance, often combining it with a suitable aftermarket heatsink for optimal use, and note its responsiveness in loading games.
- See it on Amazon here
MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 offers a compelling package for PS5 users, combining high-speed performance with thoughtful thermal management. This SSD is specifically highlighted for its PS5 compatibility and comes with a built-in graphene composite heat sink, plus an additional uninstalled heatsink in the package. Its rigorous testing ensures stability and longevity, making it a reliable and convenient choice for expanding your console’s storage.
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Key Features:
- Read speeds up to 7450MB/s, write speeds up to 6500MB/s via PCIe 4.0.
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink, plus an additional uninstalled heatsink included.
- Perfectly compatible with PS5 (M.2 2280 form factor).
- Utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
- Undergoes extensive 80-hour rigorous testing for stability.
- Comes with screws and screwdriver for easy installation.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds, exceeding PS5 requirements.
- Includes multiple heatsink options for flexible installation.
- Strong emphasis on quality control and rigorous testing.
- Affordable option for its performance tier.
- Includes installation tools.
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Cons:
- Brand recognition might not be as strong as major competitors.
- Additional heatsink requires manual installation.
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User Impressions: Users report excellent compatibility and performance with their PS5 consoles, praising the very fast loading times. The inclusion of installation tools and the dual heatsink options are frequently appreciated by buyers looking for a complete solution.
- See it on Amazon here
Fikwot FX910 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD for PS5&PC, PCIe Gen4
The Fikwot FX910 positions itself as a robust solution for both PS5 and PC users seeking extreme performance. It delivers ultra-fast speeds via PCIe 4.0, ensuring quick boot-ups and smooth multitasking, which directly translates to faster game loading on your PS5. The built-in graphite heatsink is a crucial feature, keeping the SSD cool under heavy loads and maintaining its top performance during demanding gaming sessions.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast speeds: up to 7300MB/s read, 6200MB/s write via PCIe 4.0.
- Built-in graphite heatsink for advanced cooling.
- Wide compatibility with PS5 and desktop PCs.
- Available in large capacities up to 4TB.
- Plug-and-play installation, no driver required.
- 5-year guarantee and 24/7 support.
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Pros:
- High speeds that comfortably meet PS5 requirements.
- Integrated heatsink for efficient thermal management.
- Broad compatibility and easy installation.
- Generous 5-year guarantee offers peace of mind.
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Cons:
- Write speeds are slightly lower than some top-tier competitors.
- Brand may be less known compared to industry giants.
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User Impressions: Customers are generally pleased with the Fikwot FX910’s performance, highlighting its quick installation and noticeable improvements in game loading times on their PS5s. The integrated heatsink is a popular feature, simplifying the upgrade process.
- See it on Amazon here
Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe x4 Gen4
The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX is purpose-built for the PlayStation 5, exceeding all of Sony’s M.2 performance requirements. Its low-profile aluminum heatspreader is thoughtfully designed to fit perfectly within the PS5’s M.2 expansion slot, making installation a breeze while ensuring optimal thermal dissipation. This means your large game files load faster than ever, directly from the SSD, without any throttling concerns.
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Key Features:
- Extreme Gen4 performance: up to 7,100MB/sec sequential read and 6,800MB/sec sequential write speeds.
- Exceeds all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements.
- Pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader.
- Available in capacities from 500GB to 4TB.
- High-speed PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe 1.4 Interface.
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Pros:
- Specifically designed and optimized for PS5 compatibility and fit.
- Excellent read and write speeds for rapid game loading.
- Low-profile heatsink is perfect for the PS5’s confined space.
- Reliable brand in the PC gaming hardware space.
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Cons:
- May be a slightly more expensive option due to its PS5-specific design.
- Speeds are top-tier but not the absolute highest on the market.
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User Impressions: PS5 owners rave about the Corsair MP600 PRO LPX for its seamless installation and immediate performance benefits. The perfect fit of the heatsink and the noticeable reduction in loading times are frequently cited as key advantages.
- See it on Amazon here
COLORFUL PS5 SSD 2TB, M.2 2TB SSD PS5, PCIe NVMe
The COLORFUL CN700 PRO SSD is engineered to deliver ultimate performance for gamers and professionals alike, making it a robust choice for your PS5. Leveraging PCIe Gen4 and NVMe 2.0 technology, it offers blazing-fast speeds that significantly reduce game loading times and enhance overall responsiveness. Its specialized graphite-coated sticker ensures efficient heat dissipation, maintaining stable operation even during extended, resource-intensive tasks on your console.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 x4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology.
- Sequential read/write speeds of 7400/6600 MB/s.
- Fully compatible with PS5 and gaming PCs.
- High-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
- Specialized graphite-coated sticker for advanced thermal management.
- Standard M.2 2280 form factor for universal compatibility and easy installation.
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Pros:
- Outstanding speeds that meet and exceed PS5 requirements.
- Effective thermal management with the graphite-coated sticker.
- Enhanced gameplay responsiveness and reduced loading times.
- Tool-free, plug-and-play installation.
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Cons:
- The “graphite-coated sticker” might not be as effective as a full-fledged aluminum heatsink for all PS5 users (though it is designed for heat dissipation).
- Brand might be less familiar to some consumers.
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User Impressions: Users report significant improvements in game loading and overall PS5 responsiveness after installing the COLORFUL SSD. Many appreciate the ease of installation and the reliable performance, especially for its price point.
- See it on Amazon here
Conclusion: Picking Your Perfect PS5 SSD
Upgrading your PS5’s storage with an M.2 NVMe SSD is one of the best enhancements you can make. It not only gives you tons of extra space for your growing game library but also ensures that those next-gen titles load at lightning speed.
When choosing the best M.2 SSD for PS5, remember to prioritize a drive with PCIe Gen4 speeds (at least 5,500 MB/s read) and, crucially, an integrated or separately purchased heatsink. Whether you opt for an officially licensed drive like the WD_BLACK SN850P for ultimate peace of mind, a speed demon like the Samsung 990 PRO, or a value-packed option like the Lexar NM790, any of these choices will dramatically improve your PlayStation 5 experience.
Happy gaming, and enjoy your expanded horizons!
FAQ: Your PS5 SSD Questions Answered
Q1: What kind of SSD does the PS5 need?
A: The PlayStation 5 requires an M.2 NVMe SSD that supports the PCIe Gen4 x4 interface. It also needs to meet minimum sequential read speeds of 5,500 MB/s.
Q2: Do I need a heatsink for my PS5 SSD?
A: Yes, Sony strongly recommends and effectively requires a heatsink for any M.2 SSD installed in the PS5. The heatsink helps dissipate heat and prevents the SSD from overheating and throttling, ensuring sustained performance during long gaming sessions. Many compatible SSDs come with one pre-installed.
Q3: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is relatively straightforward. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. First, power off and unplug your PS5. Lay it down on its side, remove the base, and then gently slide off the faceplate (the one without the disc drive slot). You’ll find a metal cover secured by a screw; remove that to expose the M.2 expansion slot. Insert the SSD, secure it with the provided screw, replace the cover and faceplate, and then power on your PS5 to format the new drive.
Q4: What’s the maximum capacity M.2 SSD the PS5 supports?
A: The PS5 supports M.2 NVMe SSDs with capacities ranging from 250GB up to 8TB. However, for a good balance of cost and storage, 1TB, 2TB, or 4TB are the most popular choices.
Q5: Will an M.2 SSD improve my PS5’s performance beyond just storage?
A: Yes! While the primary benefit is increased storage, a compatible M.2 SSD can significantly improve game loading times, often matching or even slightly surpassing the PS5’s internal storage speed. This means faster boot-ups for games and quicker transitions between levels.
Q6: Can I use an external SSD with my PS5 for PS5 games?
A: No, you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external USB SSD. External drives can only store PS5 games, requiring you to transfer them to the internal console storage or an internal M.2 SSD to play them. However, you can play PS4 games directly from an external USB SSD.
Q7: Does the M.2 SSD slot use up a lot of power from the PS5?
A: M.2 SSDs do consume some power, but the PS5 is designed to handle this additional load. Modern PCIe Gen4 SSDs are also increasingly power-efficient. The heatsink is key to managing any generated heat, preventing performance issues.