Running out of storage on your PlayStation 5? You’re definitely not alone! As game sizes continue to balloon, that initial 825GB (or even less, once the system software takes its share) can fill up faster than you can say “Spider-Man 2.” Luckily, Sony made it super easy to expand your PS5’s storage with a high-performance M.2 NVMe SSD – specifically, one that comes with a heatsink.
Why the heatsink, you ask? Well, these drives are incredibly fast, and with that speed comes heat. A well-designed heatsink is crucial for keeping your drive cool, preventing thermal throttling, and ensuring your games run smoothly without any annoying slowdowns during those intense gaming sessions. Finding the best SSD for PS5 with heatsink can feel like a quest of its own with so many options out there. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you pick the perfect one for your beloved console. Get ready to download more games, experience lightning-fast load times, and truly elevate your PlayStation 5 gaming experience!
Why You Need an SSD with Heatsink for Your PS5
Your PlayStation 5 requires a specific type of M.2 NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen4) to meet its performance standards. These drives are lightning-fast, but that speed generates significant heat. Without proper heat dissipation, the drive can overheat, leading to performance degradation (thermal throttling) and potentially shortening the SSD’s lifespan. An integrated heatsink is the simplest and most effective way to ensure your drive stays cool under pressure, maintaining optimal performance for all your digital games and keeping those load times ridiculously short.
Now, let’s dive into our top picks for the best SSD for PS5 with heatsink!
Top 10 SSDs for PS5 with Heatsink
1. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a titan in the SSD world, renowned for its incredible speeds and rock-solid reliability. This drive is practically a cheat code for your PS5, offering near max PCIe 4.0 performance with lightning-fast read/write speeds that will make game loading times a distant memory. Its ultra-slim integrated heatsink is designed specifically to keep temperatures in check, ensuring consistent, top-tier performance even during the most demanding gaming marathons. If you’re looking for one of the fastest and most dependable drives from a world leader in flash memory, this is it.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s (read/write)
– Integrated ultra-slim heatsink for improved temperature control
– PCIe Gen4 M.2 interface
– More than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops/laptops
– Available in 1TB to 4TB capacities
Pros:
– Exceptional performance and blazing-fast load times
– Highly reliable from a trusted brand
– Excellent thermal management with integrated heatsink
– Perfect for heavy gaming and content creation
– Easy installation for PS5
Cons:
– Often comes with a premium price tag
– May be overkill for casual gamers who don’t need top-tier speeds
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the Samsung 990 PRO for its mind-blowing speed and seamless performance on their PS5. Many highlight how drastically it cuts down on load times and keeps their console running cool, even during extended play sessions. Its reputation for reliability also gives gamers great peace of mind.
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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 transforms your PS5 (or PC) into a performance powerhouse, delivering ridiculously short load times with insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s. With capacities up to 8TB, you can download a massive library of games without constantly juggling titles. The optional heatsink version (which is essential for PS5 users) ensures your drive stays cool and maintains peak performance, even when you’re deep into the most intense gaming sessions.
Key Features:
– Top-tier performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s
– Available with an integrated heatsink for optimal cooling
– Large capacities up to 8TB for extensive game libraries
– Features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management
– Comes with downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for monitoring
– Built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND
Pros:
– Incredible speed for minimal load times
– Massive storage options
– Heatsink version effectively prevents throttling
– Robust build quality from a reputable gaming brand
– Advanced features for performance management
Cons:
– WD Dashboard features are not applicable for PS5 users
– Premium price for higher capacities
User Impressions:
Gamers are thrilled with the SN850X’s raw speed, reporting significantly faster load times and smoother gameplay on their PS5s. The integrated heatsink is often mentioned as a major plus, keeping the drive cool and stable. Users love the extra space it provides for their growing game collections.
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3. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
For ultimate peace of mind and guaranteed compatibility, the WD_BLACK SN850P is the officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles. This means you can install it without a second thought about whether it will work perfectly with your PS5. It features a brand-new, optimized heatsink specifically designed for the PS5, ensuring an easy, worry-free installation directly into the M.2 slot. Experience uninterrupted gameplay and lightning-fast read speeds up to 7,300MB/s, allowing you to play directly from the drive without needing to transfer or delete games.
Key Features:
– Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles
– Optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5
– Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s
– Capacities from 1TB to 4TB (4TB model stores up to 100 games)
– Allows direct gameplay from the drive
– Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe (may vary)
Pros:
– Guaranteed compatibility and easy installation for PS5
– Heatsink perfectly optimized for PS5 console’s cooling system
– Extremely fast speeds for seamless gameplay
– Ample storage for a large game library
– Peace of mind with official licensing
Cons:
– May be at a slightly higher price point due to official licensing
– PlayStation Plus trial is a limited-time offer
User Impressions:
Customers highly recommend the WD_BLACK SN850P for its effortless installation and flawless compatibility with the PS5. The “officially licensed” status is a huge selling point, giving users confidence. The speed and dedicated heatsink also receive widespread praise for enhancing the gaming experience.
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4. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM790 SSD with Heatsink delivers exceptional performance that’s twice as fast as PCIe Gen 3 SSDs, with read speeds up to 7400MB/s and write speeds up to 6500MB/s. This drive is not just about speed; it’s also designed with a robust heatsink to keep your system cool for better performance and impressive power efficiency. It consumes up to 40% less power than many other PCIe Gen 4 SSDs, making it a smart choice for both your PS5 and your energy bill. Plus, it’s fully compatible with the PlayStation 5.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– Designed with a heatsink for optimal cooling 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
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds that meet PS5 requirements
– Excellent power efficiency
– Effective integrated heatsink
– Reliable performance from a well-known memory brand
– Good value for performance
Cons:
– Less well-known in the gaming SSD market compared to WD or Samsung
– Specific power savings may not be a primary concern for all users
User Impressions:
Users find the Lexar NM790 to be a fantastic high-performance SSD, especially praising its speed and the effective cooling provided by the heatsink. Many appreciate its compatibility and ease of use with the PS5, considering it a great upgrade that offers competitive performance without breaking the bank.
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5. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD stands out with its cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, offering blazing-fast read and write speeds up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s, respectively. This drive significantly reduces game loading times and system delays, making it an excellent choice for a PS5 upgrade. It features a built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink for strong cooling, plus an additional heatsink included in the package for enhanced thermal management. MOVE SPEED emphasizes rigorous testing, ensuring stability and long service life for heavy gaming sessions.
Key Features:
– NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 high-speed interface (up to 7450MB/s read, 6500MB/s write)
– Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC
– Built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink, plus additional heatsink included
– Utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash memory chips and Maxio MAP1602 controller
– Ample storage capacity (1TB/2TB) for up to 50 games (2TB model)
– Rigorously tested for stability and longevity
Pros:
– Extremely high speeds for superior performance
– Dual heatsink design for excellent cooling
– Plug-and-play installation with included tools
– Rigorous testing ensures reliability and durability
– Competitive pricing for performance offered
Cons:
– Brand might be less familiar to some users
– Additional heatsink requires manual installation
User Impressions:
Customers are pleasantly surprised by the MOVE SPEED HB7450, noting its impressive speed and effective cooling. The inclusion of an extra heatsink and installation tools is a bonus, making the setup process straightforward. Users report a noticeable improvement in game load times and overall PS5 responsiveness.
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6. fanxiang 4TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD for PS5 with Heatsink
The fanxiang S880ER with Heatsink SSD offers extreme performance tailored for hardcore gamers and professionals. This 4TB NVMe drive adopts a PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology, delivering sequential read/write speeds of up to 7300/6300 MB/s. It’s specifically designed to be compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage, ensuring faster loads and an extreme gaming experience. Its unique heatsink design efficiently reduces the drive’s temperature, maintaining consistent high performance even during extended gaming sessions or intense data processing tasks.
Key Features:
– PCIe 4.0 SSD extreme performance (up to 7300/6300 MB/s read/write)
– Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage
– Unique heatsink design for efficient thermal control
– Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory
– Available in large 4TB capacity
– 5-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support
Pros:
– Massive 4TB capacity for an enormous game library
– High speeds for rapid game loading and data processing
– Effective heatsink prevents thermal throttling
– Reliable performance for both gaming and professional use
– Strong customer support and warranty
Cons:
– Less recognized brand name compared to industry giants
– 4TB might be more capacity than some users need, increasing cost
User Impressions:
Many users are impressed by the fanxiang S880ER’s performance and value, especially for its large 4TB capacity. The heatsink is praised for keeping the drive cool, and gamers report significant improvements in load times on their PS5. The brand’s commitment to customer service is also a positive point.
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7. Fikwot FX910 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD for PS5&PC, PCIe Gen4
The Fikwot FX910 is a powerful M.2 NVMe SSD designed to deliver extreme performance for both PS5 and PC users. With ultra-fast speeds up to 7300MB/s (read) and 6200MB/s (write) via PCIe 4.0, it ensures quick boot-ups, smooth multitasking, and rapid game loading. Its built-in graphite heatsink is crucial for keeping the SSD cool and stable under heavy loads, maintaining peak performance during demanding tasks. The FX910 offers wide compatibility and a generous 5-year guarantee, making it a reliable choice for professional gamers and high-performance users.
Key Features:
– Extreme performance up to 7300MB/s read and 6200MB/s write
– Built-in graphite heatsink for advanced cooling
– Wide compatibility with PS5 and desktop PCs
– Easy plug-and-play installation
– Available in large capacities up to 4TB
– 5-year after-sales service and 24/7 support
Pros:
– Impressive read/write speeds for fast performance
– Effective integrated heatsink for stable operation
– Broad compatibility makes it versatile
– Simple installation process
– Strong warranty and customer support
Cons:
– Brand recognition might be lower for some consumers
– Graphite heatsink might not be as visually robust as aluminum ones for PC builds (though perfectly fine for PS5)
User Impressions:
Customers using the Fikwot FX910 often highlight its straightforward installation and immediate performance boost on their PS5. The speeds are noted as excellent, and the integrated heatsink effectively prevents overheating, even during long gaming sessions. Many appreciate the value it offers for its price point.
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8. Crucial T500 1TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD with Heatsink
The Crucial T500 Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD with Heatsink is engineered for lightning-fast gaming and content creation. It delivers incredible sequential reads/writes up to 7,300/6,800MB/s, promising faster game loads (up to 16% faster!) and quicker texture renders. The heatsink version is specifically designed for easy installation in your PlayStation 5, ensuring optimal thermal management. Beyond gaming, it significantly boosts performance in content creation apps, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. Plus, it comes with a bonus month of Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan.
Key Features:
– Lightning speeds up to 7,300/6,800MB/s (read/write)
– Heatsink version designed for PS5 readiness
– Loads games up to 16% faster with Microsoft DirectStorage support
– Up to 42% faster performance in content creation apps
– Bonus one-month Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan
– Reliable performance from a Micron brand
Pros:
– Superb speeds for gaming and productivity
– PS5-ready heatsink for easy installation and cooling
– Benefits for both gamers and content creators
– Backed by a well-established memory manufacturer (Micron)
– Added value with Adobe Creative Cloud offer
Cons:
– Adobe Creative Cloud offer is for new subscribers only
– Smaller capacities might fill up quickly for avid gamers
User Impressions:
Crucial T500 users are consistently impressed by its speed and ease of installation in the PS5. Gamers notice significantly reduced load times, while content creators appreciate the performance boost for their applications. The integrated heatsink is effective and keeps the drive running cool.
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9. M.2 Heatsink Cooler 2280 SSD Double-Sided Heat Sink with Thermal Pad
While not an SSD itself, this M.2 Heatsink Cooler is an essential component if you already own an M.2 2280 SSD for your PS5 that lacks an integrated heatsink. Designed for desktop PCs and PS5, this aluminum alloy heatsink perfectly fits popular SSDs like Samsung 980 Pro. Its double-sided clip design ensures stable installation and provides a 10°C – 20°C cooling effect, significantly improving your SSD’s temperature and preventing throttling. This is a crucial accessory to turn any compatible bare SSD into the best SSD for PS5 with heatsink it can be.
Key Features:
– Designed for desktop PC/PS5 M.2 2280 SSDs
– Made from aluminum alloy with anodic oxidation surface treatment
– Double-sided clip design for stable installation
– Includes high-quality thermal pads with good conductivity
– Provides 10°C – 20°C cooling effect
– Helps avoid overheating and throttling
Pros:
– Essential for bare M.2 SSDs in PS5 to prevent overheating
– Easy to install with double-sided clip design
– Effective cooling performance
– Durable and well-constructed
– Cost-effective solution for adding a heatsink
Cons:
– Requires manual installation onto your existing SSD
– Only a heatsink, not a full SSD drive
User Impressions:
Users who bought this heatsink for their bare M.2 SSDs in their PS5s report excellent results. They praise its effectiveness in reducing temperatures and preventing performance drops. The ease of installation and solid build quality are also frequently highlighted.
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10. ORICO OS5 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 Storage Expansion, M.2 NVMe Gen4
The ORICO OS5 M.2 NVMe SSD is purpose-built for PS5 storage expansion, with precise dimensions and a pre-installed heatsink that fits directly into the console. Experience next-gen speed with PCIe 4.0 and NVMe 2.0, delivering blazing-fast read speeds up to 7450MB/s for smoother gaming and faster load times. Its non-removable aluminum heatsink features a fin structure and airflow cutouts engineered to align with the PS5’s internal cooling path, ensuring stable operation even under heavy gaming loads. With capacities up to 4TB, you can store hundreds of games without constant deletion.
Key Features:
– Tailored for PS5, PS5 Slim, and PS5 Pro internal expansion
– Pre-installed, non-removable aluminum heatsink optimized for PS5 cooling
– Next-Gen Speed with PCIe 4.0 & NVMe 2.0 (up to 7450MB/s read)
– Expanded capacities from 1TB to 4TB (4TB model stores up to 100 games)
– Durable 3D TLC Flash for long-term use and high endurance (up to 1200TBW for 2TB)
– Backed by a 5-year limited service plan
Pros:
– Perfect fit and optimized heatsink for PS5 consoles
– Extremely fast read speeds
– Ample storage capacity options
– Excellent thermal design for sustained performance
– High endurance and solid warranty
Cons:
– Brand might be less familiar than established giants
– Heatsink is non-removable, which is fine for PS5 but less flexible for PC
User Impressions:
PS5 owners rave about the ORICO OS5’s perfect fit and easy installation. The speeds are consistently high, and the pre-installed, optimized heatsink keeps the drive remarkably cool. Users appreciate the ample storage and the smooth, uninterrupted gaming experience it provides.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need an SSD for my PS5?
A1: Your PlayStation 5 comes with a fast internal SSD, but its usable space is limited. Adding an M.2 NVMe SSD allows you to significantly expand your storage, meaning you can download and store more games without having to delete old favorites. It also provides blazing-fast load times for games installed on the expansion drive, matching or even exceeding the console’s internal drive performance.
Q2: Is a heatsink really necessary for an SSD in a PS5?
A2: Yes, absolutely! High-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs generate a significant amount of heat during operation. Without an effective heatsink, the drive can overheat, leading to “thermal throttling” where the drive slows down to prevent damage. A heatsink ensures your SSD maintains optimal performance and prolongs its lifespan, especially during intense gaming sessions.
Q3: What kind of SSD does the PS5 support?
A3: The PS5 supports M.2 NVMe SSDs with a PCIe Gen4 x4 interface. It requires a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s, though faster drives are recommended. The physical size must be 22mm wide and can be 30, 42, 60, 80, or 110mm long (known as 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110). Critically, it must also have an integrated heatsink or you’ll need to add one.
Q4: How do I install an SSD in my PS5?
A4: Installing an SSD in your PS5 is a straightforward process. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. First, turn off your PS5 and unplug all cables. Place it on a soft cloth, remove the console covers, and locate the M.2 expansion slot. Unscrew the cover, insert the SSD at an angle, push it down, and secure it with the provided screw/spacer. Replace the covers, plug everything back in, and your PS5 will guide you through formatting the new drive. Sony provides a detailed video tutorial on their official support page.
Q5: What’s the ideal SSD capacity for a PS5?
A5: The ideal capacity depends on how many games you play and store. For most users, a 1TB or 2TB SSD is a great starting point, providing ample space for dozens of AAA titles. If you have a massive digital library or plan to keep a vast collection of games installed, a 4TB SSD might be worth the investment. Remember, game file sizes are constantly increasing!
Q6: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A6: No, installing a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD will not void your PS5 warranty. Sony officially supports and encourages users to expand their console’s storage this way. Just make sure you follow the official installation guidelines to avoid any accidental damage.
Q7: What do “read” and “write” speeds mean for an SSD?
A7: “Read speed” refers to how quickly the SSD can access and retrieve data (e.g., loading a game, pulling up a saved file). “Write speed” refers to how quickly the SSD can store or save data onto itself (e.g., installing a new game, saving progress). For gaming, high read speeds are crucial for fast loading, while good write speeds are beneficial for installations and game updates.
Conclusion
Expanding your PlayStation 5’s storage with a high-quality M.2 NVMe SSD is one of the best upgrades you can make. Not only does it free you from the constant struggle of deleting games, but with the right best SSD for PS5 with heatsink, you’ll also enjoy incredibly fast load times and a smoother gaming experience thanks to optimal thermal management.
Whether you opt for the premium performance of a Samsung 990 PRO, the officially licensed peace of mind of a WD_BLACK SN850P, or the excellent value of a Lexar NM790, any of the drives on our list will significantly enhance your PS5. Choose the one that best fits your budget and capacity needs, and get ready to dive into an even better world of PlayStation gaming!
Ready to upgrade your PS5? Find the perfect SSD and say goodbye to storage woes today!