Are you tired of constantly deleting games to make space for new ones on your PlayStation 5? Running out of storage is a common problem for PS5 gamers, especially with those massive AAA titles. The good news is that upgrading your PS5’s storage with an M.2 SSD is a straightforward process that can dramatically expand your game library and even improve load times.
While “Crucial best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5” is a popular search, and Crucial certainly makes some fantastic drives, the market offers other excellent contenders that meet Sony’s strict requirements. We’ve rounded up a list of the top 10 best 2TB M.2 SSDs suitable for your PS5, including some fantastic Crucial options and other high-performance alternatives, to help you make an informed decision and give your console the storage boost it deserves!
What to Look for in a PS5 M.2 SSD:
Before diving into the reviews, here’s a quick checklist for what your PS5 M.2 SSD needs:
- Capacity: 250GB to 8TB (2TB is often the sweet spot for value and ample storage).
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD.
- Speed: At least 5,500 MB/s sequential read speed.
- Form Factor: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110 (2280 is the most common and recommended).
- Heatsink: Absolutely essential for thermal management to prevent throttling and maintain performance. If the SSD doesn’t come with one, you’ll need to buy one separately.
Now, let’s explore the drives that will supercharge your PS5!
1. Crucial T500 2TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD with Heatsink
The Crucial T500 is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for pure, unadulterated speed and a hassle-free upgrade for your PS5. This drive is specifically engineered for gaming, offering blazing-fast load times and smoother gameplay, thanks to its impressive Gen4 capabilities. The included heatsink makes it a true plug-and-play solution for your PlayStation 5, ensuring optimal thermal performance during even the most intense gaming sessions.
- Key Features:
- LIGHTNING SPEEDS: Get incredible performance with sequential reads/writes up to 7,400/7,000MB/s and random read/writes up to 1.18M/1.44M IOPs.
- PS5 READY: Heatsink version is easy to install in your PlayStation 5 (non-heatsink option also available).
- ULTIMATE GAMING: Load games up to 16% faster and get faster texture renders and less CPU utilization with Microsoft DirectStorage.
- CONTENT CREATION: Get up to 42% faster performance in content creation apps, run heavy workloads, and render photos or videos faster.
- ADOBE CREATIVE CLOUD: Get one month of Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan on us when you purchase and register the Crucial T500 SSD.
- Pros:
- Exceptional Gen4 speeds exceeding PS5 requirements.
- Comes with a heatsink, ready for PS5 installation.
- Optimized for gaming and content creation.
- Includes an Adobe Creative Cloud bonus.
- Cons:
- Premium pricing compared to some other Gen4 drives.
- User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the T500 for its noticeable speed improvements and the convenience of the pre-attached heatsink, making the PS5 upgrade feel like a breeze. It’s often cited as a top-tier choice for performance-demanding users.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Crucial P310 2280 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe Gaming PS5 SSD
The Crucial P310 (2280 form factor) offers a solid Gen4 experience without breaking the bank, making it an excellent value proposition for casual gamers or those who don’t need the absolute bleeding edge of speed. While not as fast as the T500, its 7,100 MB/s read speed comfortably exceeds PS5’s minimum requirements, ensuring snappy game loads and a smooth user experience. This drive provides plenty of space for your game library and is a reliable choice for a PlayStation 5 upgrade. Note: This version does not include a heatsink, which you’ll need to purchase separately for PS5 compatibility.
- Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking.
- Spacious 2TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with standard Gen4 NVMe performance for casual gamers and home users.
- Broad Compatibility: Seamlessly works with desktops, laptops, and PlayStation 5. Also supports backward compatibility with Gen3 systems, making upgrades simple.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation. Improve performance for real-world tasks like booting Windows, starting applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and working in applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users.
- Pros:
- Excellent value for Gen4 performance.
- Exceeds PS5 minimum speed requirements.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
- Backed by Micron’s reliability.
- Cons:
- Does not include a heatsink (essential for PS5).
- Not the fastest Gen4 drive on the market.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the P310’s balance of performance and affordability, often noting its significant upgrade over the PS5’s internal storage. Just remember to grab a separate heatsink!
- See it on Amazon here
3. Crucial P510 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD with Heatsink
The Crucial P510 Gen5 with Heatsink is a glimpse into the future, offering mind-blowing speeds that push beyond what the PS5 currently fully utilizes. With read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s, this drive is overkill for the PS5’s current Gen4 capabilities but future-proofs your storage in a big way. The included heatsink makes it a convenient option for your PlayStation 5, and its affordable performance for a Gen5 drive is a major selling point.
- Key Features:
- SERIOUS SPEED: Reduced load times and enjoy read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s.
- GEN5 COMPATIBILITY: Easy installation and flexibility for Gen5 desktops and PlayStation 5 consoles.
- AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE: Exceptional balance of performance and price, making it an ideal choice for savvy buyers.
- MICRON QUALITY: Top-tier Micron performance that you can trust.
- SEAMLESS UPGRADES: Included Acronis True Image for Crucial software allows users to easily migrate data from old drives to the P510.
- Pros:
- Extremely fast Gen5 speeds, well above PS5 requirements.
- Comes with a heatsink, ready for PS5 installation.
- Future-proofs your storage investment.
- Good value for a Gen5 drive.
- Cons:
- PS5 can’t fully leverage Gen5 speeds yet, so you’re paying for unused potential.
- User Impressions: Buyers are excited by the P510’s cutting-edge speed and the convenience of the pre-installed heatsink. While PS5 doesn’t max out Gen5, users appreciate the drive’s future-proofing and excellent performance.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Crucial P5 Plus 2TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD Internal Gaming SSD
The Crucial P5 Plus is another solid Gen4 option, positioning itself as a premium choice for gamers and power users. This 2TB M.2 SSD delivers impressive sequential read speeds typically around 6600MB/s, comfortably exceeding the PS5’s minimum requirement and ensuring your games load quickly and smoothly. While it doesn’t come with a heatsink, its robust performance and Micron’s renowned reliability make it a popular choice for those looking for a dependable upgrade for their PlayStation 5.
- Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 NVMe technology for high-speed performance.
- Sequential read speeds typically up to 6600MB/s, exceeding PS5 minimums.
- Spacious 2TB capacity for an extensive game library.
- Engineered for demanding workloads, including gaming and content creation.
- Built with Micron advanced 3D NAND technology for reliability.
- Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 speeds for smooth PS5 gaming.
- High reliability from a trusted brand.
- Ample 2TB storage.
- Cons:
- Does not include a heatsink (essential for PS5, must be purchased separately).
- Not the absolute fastest Gen4 drive available.
- User Impressions: Customers often highlight the P5 Plus’s consistent performance and value. It’s seen as a reliable workhorse that significantly boosts PS5 storage and speed, provided a heatsink is added.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Crucial P510 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD
Similar to its heatsink-equipped sibling, this version of the Crucial P510 Gen5 offers the same incredible performance with read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s. This drive is a powerhouse, built for the next generation of computing. For PS5 users, it means future-proof storage with speeds far beyond current console needs. The main difference here is that this P510 does not include a heatsink, so you’ll absolutely need to purchase and install one separately to use it safely and effectively with your PlayStation 5.
- Key Features:
- SERIOUS SPEED: Reduced load times and enjoy read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s.
- GEN5 COMPATIBILITY: Easy installation and flexibility for Gen5 laptops and desktops.
- AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE: Exceptional balance of performance and price, making it an ideal choice for savvy buyers.
- MICRON QUALITY: Top-tier Micron performance that you can trust.
- SEAMLESS UPGRADES: Included Acronis True Image for Crucial software allows users to easily migrate data from old drives to the P510.
- Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen5 speeds, highest on this list.
- Excellent performance-to-price ratio for Gen5.
- Ideal for future-proofing your storage.
- Cons:
- PS5 can’t fully utilize Gen5 speeds yet.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use.
- User Impressions: Users are impressed by the raw speed of the P510, even if the PS5 can’t fully exploit it. The critical takeaway from user feedback for this specific model is the reminder that a separate heatsink is a non-negotiable accessory for PS5 installation.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Crucial P310 2TB M.2 2230 SSD
Important Note for PS5 Users: While the Crucial P310 2TB M.2 2230 SSD is a fantastic and power-efficient drive, its 2230 form factor is primarily designed for compact devices like the Valve Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and select Microsoft Surface models. The PlayStation 5 officially supports M.2 2280 (and larger up to 22110) drives, but not the 2230 form factor without an adapter, which is not recommended or officially supported for internal PS5 expansion. If you’re looking for a direct PS5 upgrade, you should opt for a 2280 form factor SSD. We’ve included it here for completeness as part of the Crucial P310 family, but strongly advise against it for typical PS5 installation.
- Key Features:
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Valve Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, Microsoft Surface, and select Dell laptops for easy portable upgrades.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100MB/s read and 6,000MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking.
- Spacious NVMe SSD: This 2TB SSD provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with compact M.2 2230 NVMe SSD form factor for casual gamers and home users.
- Power-efficient Design: Engineered for low power draw to extend battery life on handheld consoles and laptops.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users.
- Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 speeds for its intended compact devices.
- Highly power-efficient, great for battery life.
- Generous 2TB storage in a small footprint.
- Cons:
- NOT suitable for direct installation in a PlayStation 5 due to its 2230 form factor.
- Requires a heatsink for performance in any high-demand scenario.
- User Impressions: Users rave about this drive for their handheld gaming devices and ultra-compact laptops, praising its performance and power efficiency. However, it’s virtually absent from PS5 discussions due to the form factor incompatibility.
- See it on Amazon here
7. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a titan in the Gen4 SSD arena, offering some of the best performance you can get. This drive is engineered for serious gamers and creative professionals, boasting incredible speeds that push the limits of PCIe 4.0. The integrated heatsink is slim and specifically designed with the PS5 in mind, ensuring optimal thermal management and stable performance even during the longest gaming marathons. If you want a top-tier, no-compromise 2TB M.2 SSD for your PS5, this is a prime contender.
- Key Features:
- BLAZING SPEED. COOL VICTORY: Helps you reach near max performance with lightning-fast speeds and Heatsink for improved temperature control.
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s you’ll reach near max performance of PCIe 4.0.
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
- MADE w/ PS5 IN MIND: Ultra-slim Integrated Heatsink is designed to dissipate heat from your device to stabilize its temperature and prevent performance issues; compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops and laptops.
- Pros:
- Top-tier Gen4 performance, one of the fastest available.
- Integrated, PS5-compatible heatsink.
- Exceptional reliability and brand reputation.
- Excellent for heavy computing, gaming, and content creation.
- Cons:
- Premium price point.
- User Impressions: Overwhelmingly positive, with users consistently praising its speed, ease of installation (thanks to the heatsink), and flawless performance in the PS5. It’s often cited as one of the best SSDs for the console.
- See it on Amazon here
8. WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN7100 is a purpose-built internal gaming SSD that delivers high-octane performance ideal for your PS5. With impressive read speeds up to 7,250MB/s, it easily surpasses Sony’s recommendations, ensuring rapid game loading and smooth transitions. Designed with Western Digital’s next-generation TLC 3D NAND, it offers a robust and reliable upgrade path. While this particular model doesn’t specify an included heatsink, it’s a powerhouse for gamers seeking speed and durability. Remember to acquire a suitable heatsink separately for your PS5 installation.
- Key Features:
- HIGH-OCTANE GAMING: Experience speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- PURPOSE-BUILT: Designed for serious on-the-go gamers, with a PCIe Gen4 interface and Western Digital’s next generation TLC 3D NAND.
- MORE SPACE FOR FAVORITES AND NEW TITLES: Available in multiple capacities up to 4TB, upgrade to an SSD that gives you tons of storage.
- MORE TIME TO CLEAR THAT CHECKPOINT: Built with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, with up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- DO MORE WITH DASHBOARD: Ensure your drive is optimized for prime performance with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only).
- Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 speeds, well above PS5 requirements.
- Robust and reliable with TLC 3D NAND.
- Power-efficient design (though less critical for PS5, good for general use).
- From a reputable brand in storage.
- Cons:
- Does not include a heatsink (essential for PS5).
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows only.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the SN7100’s consistent performance and robust build quality, often noting a significant upgrade in load times. It’s a solid, reliable choice for those comfortable adding their own heatsink.
- See it on Amazon here
9. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN850X takes gaming performance to the extreme, offering ridiculous load times and top-tier speeds up to 7,300 MB/s. This SSD is a true game-changer for your PS5, designed to handle the most demanding titles with ease. The SN850X comes with an optional heatsink version, which is highly recommended for PS5 users to maintain peak performance during intense gaming sessions. With advanced features like Game Mode 2.0 and adaptive thermal management, this 2TB M.2 SSD ensures your PlayStation 5 experience is unparalleled.
- Key Features:
- TRANSFORM YOUR PC: Get top-tier performance and ridiculously short load times for your gaming PC or workstation with insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- MORE ROOM, MORE GAMES: Capacities up to 8TB built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND, means you get to download more games — and stop deleting your favorites.
- HEATSINK FOR THE WIN: All capacities have an optional heatsink version to help maintain peak performance through your most intense gaming sessions.
- DO MORE WITH DASHBOARD: The downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) monitors your drive’s health, lets you customize your RGB lighting (heatsink versions only), and can automatically detect games to turn on Game Mode 2.0.
- FUTURE-FORWARD FEATURES: The WD_BLACK SN850X boasts a powerful suite of features, including Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
- Pros:
- Extremely fast Gen4 speeds, among the best for PS5.
- Optional heatsink version is perfectly suited for PS5.
- Features optimized for gaming performance (Game Mode 2.0, Predictive Loading).
- High reliability with TLC 3D NAND.
- Cons:
- The RGB customization and Dashboard features are Windows-only.
- Higher price point for top-tier performance.
- User Impressions: Widely regarded as one of the best SSDs for PS5, users consistently praise the SN850X (especially with heatsink) for its incredible speed, reliability, and how it utterly eliminates storage concerns.
- See it on Amazon here
10. Crucial P3 Plus 2TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2
The Crucial P3 Plus offers a compelling blend of Gen4 performance and value, making it an excellent choice for expanding your PS5’s storage without overspending. With sequential reads up to 5000MB/s, it meets the PS5’s minimum speed requirements, ensuring smooth gameplay and fast load times. This 2TB M.2 SSD leverages NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology and 3D NAND for reliable and efficient storage. While it doesn’t come with a heatsink, its affordability makes it a great option if you’re willing to add one separately.
- Key Features:
- NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology with up to 5000MB/s sequential reads, random read/write 680K/850K IOPS.
- Spacious storage up to 4TB.
- Performs up to 43% faster than the fastest Gen3 NVMe SSDs.
- Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity and reliability.
- Backward compatibility with Gen3.
- Pros:
- Meets PS5 minimum speed requirements.
- Excellent value for a 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD.
- High reliability rating.
- Backward compatible for versatility.
- Cons:
- Does not include a heatsink (essential for PS5).
- On the lower end of Gen4 speeds, though still sufficient for PS5.
- User Impressions: Users love the P3 Plus for its affordability and reliable performance. It’s often recommended as a budget-friendly way to significantly boost PS5 storage, provided the user remembers to purchase and install a heatsink.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Boosting Your PS5 Storage
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5, and why 2TB?
A: The PS5 comes with a relatively small 825GB internal SSD (with about 667GB usable for games). With modern game sizes often exceeding 100GB, this fills up quickly. An M.2 SSD allows you to expand your storage, letting you keep more games installed without constant deleting and re-downloading. 2TB is often considered the sweet spot because it offers substantial extra space for a large game library (easily 15-20+ AAA titles) without the significantly higher cost of 4TB drives.
Q2: Do I really need a heatsink for my PS5 M.2 SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely! Sony explicitly states that a heatsink is required for M.2 SSDs installed in the PS5. The console’s internal environment can get warm, and an M.2 SSD operating at high speeds generates heat. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, preventing the drive from overheating and throttling its performance, which could lead to slower load times or even instability during gameplay.
Q3: What’s the difference between Gen4 and Gen5 SSDs, and which is better for PS5?
A: PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 refer to the generation of the PCIe interface standard, which dictates data transfer speeds. Gen4 SSDs offer sequential read speeds up to around 7,500 MB/s, while Gen5 SSDs can achieve speeds of 10,000 MB/s or more. The PS5 technically supports PCIe Gen4 SSDs. While you can install a Gen5 SSD (like some Crucial P510 options), the PS5’s internal architecture can only utilize Gen4 speeds. So, a Gen5 drive will operate at Gen4 speeds on a PS5, meaning you’re paying for performance you can’t fully use yet. A high-quality Gen4 SSD is perfectly sufficient and often more cost-effective for the PS5.
Q4: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PlayStation 5?
A: The installation process is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver.
1. Turn off your PS5 completely and unplug all cables.
2. Lay the PS5 on its side with the disc drive facing up (if you have the standard model).
3. Carefully remove the bottom cover panel by lifting and sliding it.
4. Locate the M.2 expansion slot, remove the screw and spacer.
5. Insert your M.2 SSD (with heatsink attached) into the slot.
6. Secure the SSD with the screw and spacer, then replace the cover panel and the PS5’s main cover.
7. Turn on your PS5; it will prompt you to format the new SSD.
Sony provides an official video guide that’s very helpful!
Q5: What specific speed requirements does Sony have for PS5 M.2 SSDs?
A: Sony requires M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 SSDs with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. Most modern Gen4 SSDs easily meet or exceed this requirement. While higher speeds won’t necessarily make games load significantly faster than a 5,500 MB/s drive due to other console bottlenecks, they certainly won’t hurt!
Q6: Can I use any M.2 SSD for my PS5?
A: No. You must use an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD that meets Sony’s specified speed (5,500 MB/s minimum) and dimensions (e.g., 2280 form factor is standard, but other supported lengths like 2230, 2242, 2260, 22110 are listed, though 2230 needs careful consideration due to the PS5’s bracket). Most importantly, it must have a heatsink, either integrated or added separately. Older PCIe Gen3 SSDs are not compatible.
Q7: Will installing an M.2 SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A: No, installing an M.2 SSD in the designated expansion slot will not void your PS5’s warranty, as it’s an officially supported upgrade path provided by Sony. Just make sure to follow the installation instructions carefully.
Conclusion: Finding Your Crucial Best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5
Choosing the right 2TB M.2 SSD for your PS5 can feel like a big decision, but with options ranging from the lightning-fast Crucial T500 with its built-in heatsink to the budget-friendly Crucial P3 Plus (requiring a separate heatsink), there’s a perfect fit for every gamer. We’ve seen top contenders from Crucial, Samsung, and WD_BLACK, all ready to expand your PlayStation 5’s horizons.
Ultimately, the “Crucial best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5” for you will depend on your budget and how much you prioritize absolute top-tier speed versus value. Regardless of your choice, upgrading your PS5’s storage is a game-changer, ensuring you’ll have plenty of room for all those incredible titles without the dreaded “storage full” message. Happy gaming!