Is your PlayStation 5 storage bursting at the seams? Are you tired of deleting games just to make room for new ones? You’re not alone! While the PS5 is a fantastic console, its internal storage can fill up surprisingly fast, especially with massive modern game files. The good news is, upgrading your PS5’s storage is a breeze with an M.2 NVMe SSD – but not just any SSD. For optimal performance and longevity, you need the best SSD for PS5 with heatsink.
A heatsink isn’t just a fancy add-on; it’s a crucial component that helps dissipate heat, preventing your SSD from overheating and throttling its performance. This means your games will load faster, run smoother, and your drive will last longer. We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive list of the top contenders, ensuring you get the speed and reliability your PS5 deserves. Let’s dive in!
Our Top Picks for the Best SSD for PS5 with Heatsink
1. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD is a true powerhouse, bringing near-max PCIe Gen4 performance to your PS5. Known for its blistering read and write speeds, this SSD is designed to handle the most demanding games and applications with ease. If you’re looking for a “set it and forget it” solution from a trusted brand, the 990 PRO won’t disappoint. Its integrated heatsink is ultra-slim, making it a perfect fit for the PS5’s expansion slot while keeping temperatures in check for sustained, cool victory.
Key Features:
– Blazing speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s read/write
– PCIe Gen4 interface for next-level performance
– Integrated ultra-slim heatsink for superior temperature control
– Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB
– Optimized for heavy computing, gaming, and video editing
Pros:
– Exceptional speed ensures lightning-fast loading
– Reliable performance from a world-leading flash memory brand
– Effective heatsink design prevents thermal throttling
– Wide range of capacity options
– Specifically designed with PS5 compatibility in mind
Cons:
– Premium price point
– May be overkill for casual gamers who don’t need top-tier speeds
User Impressions:
Users consistently rave about the 990 PRO’s incredible speed and seamless integration with their PS5. Many highlight the noticeable difference in load times and overall system responsiveness. While it’s a bit of an investment, the consensus is that it’s worth every penny for serious gamers.
2. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN850X is built for serious gamers who demand nothing but the best. This internal gaming SSD delivers top-tier performance with insane speeds, drastically reducing load times and offering a smoother gameplay experience. With its optional heatsink version, you can be sure your drive maintains peak performance even during the most intense gaming sessions. Plus, the WD_BLACK Dashboard offers extra control for PC users, including RGB customization for its heatsink models.
Key Features:
– Speeds up to 7,300 MB/s (read) for rapid game loading
– Available in capacities up to 8TB for massive game libraries
– Optional heatsink to maintain peak performance
– WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for drive health monitoring and Game Mode 2.0
– Advanced features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds significantly cut down loading times
– Extremely high capacity options available
– Effective heatsink ensures stable performance under load
– Software features enhance PC gaming experience
– Durable and reliable Western Digital TLC 3D NAND
Cons:
– Dashboard features are Windows-only, limiting utility for PS5 users
– Higher price point for larger capacities
User Impressions:
Gamers are thrilled with the SN850X, reporting significantly faster load times and smoother in-game transitions on their PS5. The drive’s ability to maintain performance under heavy use is frequently praised. Its robust build quality also gives users peace of mind.
3. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PlayStation
When it comes to PS5 compatibility, the WD_BLACK SN850P takes the guesswork out of the equation. This SSD is officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles, meaning you get a worry-free installation and guaranteed performance. It boasts an optimized heatsink specifically designed for the PS5’s M.2 slot, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay. With incredible read speeds, you can play directly from this drive without needing to transfer or delete games, making it one of the best SSD for PS5 with heatsink options specifically tailored for console users.
Key Features:
– Officially licensed for PlayStation 5 for guaranteed compatibility
– Optimized heatsink for easy, worry-free installation in PS5
– Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for seamless gameplay
– Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, storing up to 100 games (4TB model)
– 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe included
Pros:
– Guaranteed compatibility and easy fit for PS5
– Excellent speeds for quick loading and smooth performance
– Large capacities reduce the need for game management
– Dedicated heatsink design for PS5
– Added bonus of a PlayStation Plus trial
Cons:
– Price may be slightly higher due to official licensing
– Performance might be similar to non-licensed drives for a higher cost
User Impressions:
PS5 owners love the official licensing, which provides immense peace of mind regarding compatibility and performance. The easy installation process and the noticeable improvement in game loading are frequently highlighted. The included PS Plus trial is a nice bonus for new subscribers.
4. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 offers cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology at an attractive price point, making it a compelling choice for PS5 users. With impressive read and write speeds, it promises lightning-fast game loading and file transfers. What truly sets this drive apart is its rigorous testing process – almost 80 hours of extreme tests ensure its stability and long service life. It also comes with an included, uninstalled heatsink, screws, and a screwdriver, making installation straightforward for DIY enthusiasts.
Key Features:
– NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 high-speed interface with up to 7450MB/s read
– Compatible with PS5, laptop, and PC
– Utilizes high-quality 3D NAND flash and Maxio MAP1602 controller
– Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink (with additional uninstalled heatsink)
– Rigorously tested for stability and longevity (80-hour tests)
Pros:
– Excellent speed for quick game loading
– Robust testing ensures high quality and durability
– Comes with all necessary installation tools (heatsink, screws, screwdriver)
– Offers a good balance of performance and value
– Effective cooling to prevent slowdowns
Cons:
– Heatsink requires manual installation
– Brand might be less recognized than industry giants
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the performance for the price, noting that it holds its own against more expensive brands. The inclusion of installation tools is a definite plus. Many highlight the noticeable speed improvement and stable operation, even during extended gaming sessions.
5. Fikwot FX910 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD for PS5&PC, PCIe Gen4
The Fikwot FX910 is designed for those who demand extreme performance and robust cooling. Delivering ultra-fast speeds via PCIe 4.0, it ensures quick boot-ups, smooth multitasking, and rapid game loading. Its built-in graphite heatsink is a key highlight, keeping the SSD cool and stable even under heavy workloads, which is essential for sustained PS5 gaming. With wide compatibility for both PS5 and desktop PCs, and a generous 5-year guarantee, it offers excellent value and peace of mind.
Key Features:
– Extreme performance with speeds up to 7300MB/s read
– Built-in graphite heatsink for advanced cooling and stability
– Wide compatibility with PS5 and desktop PCs
– Available in large capacities up to 4TB
– Plug-and-play installation with no driver required
Pros:
– Blazing fast speeds enhance system responsiveness
– Effective built-in cooling prevents thermal throttling
– High capacity options suitable for extensive game libraries
– Easy and quick installation
– Strong 5-year guarantee and 24/7 support
Cons:
– Brand might be newer to some users
– Performance under sustained extreme load may vary slightly from top-tier brands
User Impressions:
Customers praise the Fikwot FX910 for its impressive speed and how well it performs with the PS5. The built-in heatsink is frequently mentioned as a positive, ensuring the drive stays cool. The straightforward installation process and the extended warranty are also highly valued.
6. fanxiang 1TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD for PS5 with Heatsink
The fanxiang S880ER with Heatsink is a compelling option for hardcore gamers looking to upgrade their PS5. It leverages PCIe Gen 4 x 4 technology and NVMe 2.0, delivering excellent sequential read/write speeds, making it a stellar partner for victory in games. Beyond gaming, its high-quality 3D NAND flash memory ensures fast application loading and efficient file processing for professional use. The unique heatsink design is specifically crafted to maintain consistent high performance by effectively reducing the SSD’s temperature during intense usage.
Key Features:
– PCIe Gen 4 x 4 and NVMe 2.0 for extreme performance (up to 7100/5300 MB/s)
– Designed for hardcore gamers and compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage
– High-quality 3D NAND flash for fast application loading and file processing
– Unique heatsink design for efficient thermal control during extended use
– 5-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support
Pros:
– Strong performance suitable for demanding games and professional tasks
– Specifically designed for PS5 and DirectStorage compatibility
– Effective cooling ensures consistent high speeds
– Reputable brand with extensive manufacturing experience
– Long 5-year warranty provides peace of mind
Cons:
– Only listed with 1TB capacity (for this specific product entry)
– Read speed slightly lower than some top-tier competitors
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the value this SSD offers, noting its significant speed improvement for PS5 gaming. The effective heatsink is a common point of praise, keeping the drive cool even during long gaming sessions. The solid warranty also builds confidence in the brand.
7. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink offers exceptional performance for your PS5, boasting impressive read and write speeds that are twice as fast as PCIe Gen 3 SSDs. What truly makes it stand out is its power efficiency, consuming up to 40% less power than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs. This, combined with its robust heatsink, ensures your PS5 runs cooler and more efficiently. Its Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 feature also contributes to smoother transfer speeds and seamless performance.
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 transfers
– Compatible with PlayStation 5
Pros:
– Blazing fast speeds for quick game loading
– Excellent power efficiency reduces heat output
– Integrated heatsink ensures stable performance
– HMB 3.0 technology enhances data transfer
– Reliable performance from a well-known memory brand
Cons:
– Only 1TB capacity listed (for this specific product entry)
– Might not be the absolute cheapest option per GB
User Impressions:
Customers are impressed by the NM790’s speed and how cool it runs in their PS5. The power efficiency is a subtle but appreciated benefit. Many highlight its reliable performance for gaming and general use, making it a solid upgrade choice.
8. Crucial T500 1TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD with Heatsink
The Crucial T500 with Heatsink is engineered for lightning speeds, making it an excellent choice for gamers and content creators alike. With incredible sequential read/write speeds and high random IOPS, it promises to load games up to 16% faster and deliver faster texture renders. The heatsink version is designed for easy installation in your PlayStation 5, ensuring you can jump into the action without worrying about overheating. Plus, it comes with a month of Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan, adding extra value for creative professionals.
Key Features:
– Lightning speeds: up to 7,300/6,800MB/s read/write
– Heatsink version specifically designed for easy PS5 installation
– Enhances gaming with up to 16% faster game loading and DirectStorage support
– Boosts content creation performance by up to 42%
– Includes one month of Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan
Pros:
– Outstanding speeds for both gaming and professional tasks
– Easy and secure fit into the PS5 M.2 slot
– Improves game load times and texture rendering
– Significant performance boost for creative applications
– Added value with Adobe Creative Cloud trial
Cons:
– Heatsink is not pre-installed in the non-heatsink version (ensure you pick the right one!)
– Price point might be higher than budget options
User Impressions:
PS5 users report a noticeable improvement in game loading and overall responsiveness with the Crucial T500. The heatsink fits perfectly, and the drive performs reliably even during long gaming sessions. The Adobe Creative Cloud bonus is a pleasant surprise for many.
9. M.2 Heatsink Cooler 2280 SSD Double-Sided Heat Sink with Thermal Pad
Please note: This product is an M.2 heatsink cooler only, not a complete SSD. It’s ideal if you already have an M.2 2280 NVMe SSD for your PS5 or PC that lacks a heatsink, or if you prefer a custom cooling solution.
If you’ve already invested in an M.2 SSD but realized it needs better thermal management for your PS5 or PC, this standalone heatsink is your solution. Crafted from aluminum alloy with an anodic oxidation surface treatment, it’s designed to dissipate heat effectively. With its double-sided clip design and high-quality thermal pads, it offers a stable installation and can cool your M.2 2280 SSD by 10°C – 20°C, preventing overheating and throttling for sustained performance.
Key Features:
– Designed for desktop PC/PS5 M.2 2280 SSDs (e.g., Samsung 980 Pro)
– Main body made of aluminum alloy with anodic oxidation surface treatment
– Includes high-quality thermal pads for excellent conductivity
– Provides 10°C – 20°C cooling effect to prevent throttling
– Easy double-sided clip installation for various SSD heights
Pros:
– Effective cooling solution for SSDs without a built-in heatsink
– High-quality materials for optimal heat dissipation
– Easy to install and provides stable protection
– Helps improve and maintain SSD performance
– Compatible with a wide range of single-sided M.2 2280 SSDs
Cons:
– This is only a heatsink; you need to buy an SSD separately
– Requires manual installation onto your existing SSD
User Impressions:
Users who bought this heatsink to complement their non-heatsink SSDs report significant temperature drops and improved sustained performance. Its solid construction and easy installation are frequently praised, making it a cost-effective way to enhance an existing drive’s thermal management.
10. fanxiang S660 PCIe 4.0 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink
The fanxiang S660 PCIe 4.0 SSD offers an excellent balance of performance and value, making it a solid choice for PS5 storage expansion. With efficient speeds, it ensures swift game launches and an immersive gaming experience. It’s perfectly compatible with your PS5 and comes with an efficient cooling heatsink design, ensuring the drive operates at low temperatures even during prolonged and intensive usage. This versatile internal SSD not only serves your PS5 but also seamlessly connects to various PC platforms, offering robust support for diverse scenarios.
Key Features:
– Efficient performance with speeds reaching 5000MB/s
– Ample storage expansion: capacities from 500GB to 4TB
– Efficient heatsink design ensures low temperatures during intensive use
– Versatile connectivity: optimal for PS5 and PC platforms
– Five-year quality assurance and professional after-sales support
Pros:
– Good performance for seamless PS5 gaming
– Wide range of capacity options to fit any need
– Effective heatsink ensures stable performance and longevity
– Versatile for use in both PS5 and PCs
– Backed by a solid five-year warranty and support
Cons:
– Max speed of 5000MB/s is lower than some top-tier Gen4 SSDs (though still well above PS5 requirements)
– May not be ideal for users demanding the absolute fastest available speeds
User Impressions:
Users find the fanxiang S660 to be a great value, delivering noticeable improvements in PS5 game loading without breaking the bank. The heatsink is effective, and the drive performs reliably. Many appreciate the brand’s commitment to customer support and the generous warranty.
FAQ: All Your Questions About PS5 SSDs with Heatsinks Answered
Q1: Why do I need an SSD for my PS5?
A: The PS5’s internal storage is limited. An M.2 NVMe SSD allows you to significantly expand your game library, so you don’t have to constantly delete and re-download games. It also allows you to play PS5 games directly from the expanded storage, just like from the internal drive.
Q2: Why is a heatsink important for a PS5 SSD?
A: SSDs generate heat, especially under heavy load like gaming. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, preventing the SSD from overheating. If an SSD gets too hot, it “throttles” its performance to cool down, leading to slower load times and potentially affecting game performance. A heatsink ensures your SSD maintains peak speed and extends its lifespan.
Q3: What speed does my PS5 SSD need?
A: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. All the drives on our list meet or exceed this requirement, ensuring optimal performance for your PS5 games.
Q4: How much storage should I get?
A: This depends on your gaming habits. Modern PS5 games can be 50GB to 100GB or more. A 1TB SSD is a good starting point for casual gamers, while a 2TB SSD offers ample space for a sizable game collection. For hardcore gamers or those with many digital titles, 4TB or even 8TB might be worth considering.
Q5: Is it hard to install an SSD in a PS5?
A: No, it’s surprisingly straightforward! Sony designed the PS5 with an easily accessible M.2 expansion slot. You’ll need a small Phillips head screwdriver and about 10-15 minutes. There are many helpful video tutorials online if you need a visual guide.
Q6: Can I use any M.2 SSD with a heatsink?
A: While many M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSDs exist, not all are perfectly compatible with the PS5. You need to ensure it’s a PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD and, critically, that its overall dimensions (including the heatsink) fit within the PS5’s designated slot. The drives on our list are specifically chosen for their PS5 compatibility.
Q7: Will an SSD improve game performance beyond storage?
A: For PS5 games, the primary benefit is storage expansion and maintaining fast load times. While it won’t magically make a game run at a higher framerate if it’s capped by the console’s GPU/CPU, it will ensure you experience the fastest possible loading screens and asset streaming, leading to a smoother overall experience compared to a drive that thermally throttles.
Q8: What is PCIe Gen4?
A: PCIe Gen4 (PCI Express Generation 4) is the latest standard for connecting high-speed components, like SSDs, to a computer’s motherboard (or in this case, a game console’s internal bus). It offers double the bandwidth and speed of the previous Gen3 standard, which is why it’s crucial for the PS5’s demanding game requirements.
Upgrading your PS5 with the best SSD for PS5 with heatsink is one of the smartest investments you can make for your gaming setup. It not only eliminates storage woes but also enhances your overall gaming experience with blazing-fast load times and reliable performance. Pick the drive that best fits your needs and budget, and get ready to truly unleash your PlayStation 5’s potential!