Is your PlayStation 5 storage bursting at the seams? If you’re a serious gamer, you know the struggle is real. Modern games are massive, and that built-in 825GB SSD (with less than 700GB usable) fills up faster than you can say “Spider-Man: Miles Morales.” The good news? You don’t have to constantly delete games to make space for new adventures! Upgrading your PS5’s storage with a compatible internal SSD is a game-changer, offering lightning-fast load times and ample room for your ever-growing library.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best SSD cards for PS5? You need a specific type: an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD with a recommended read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s, and a heatsink is pretty much non-negotiable to prevent throttling during intense gaming sessions. We’ve done the legwork for you, diving into the market to find the top contenders.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 of the best SSD cards for PS5, highlighting what makes each one stand out, their key features, and what real users are saying. Get ready to expand your gaming universe!
Our Top Picks: Best SSD Cards for PS5
Here are our detailed reviews of the top SSDs that will supercharge your PS5 gaming experience:
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed…
This WD_BLACK SN850P is an absolute titan when it comes to PS5 storage, and it’s officially licensed by PlayStation, which means you can pretty much guarantee seamless compatibility and performance right out of the box. Designed specifically with the PS5 in mind, it features an optimized heatsink pre-installed, making installation a breeze and ensuring your drive stays cool even during the most demanding gaming marathons. With its incredible speeds and large capacity options, you can say goodbye to those agonizing load screens and hello to uninterrupted gameplay.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, ensuring full compatibility.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, providing ample space for up to 100 games (4TB model).
- Optimized heatsink designed for PS5 for easy, worry-free installation and thermal management.
- Play games directly from the drive, eliminating the need for transfers.
- Blazing read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for seamless gameplay and short load times.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
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Pros:
- Official PlayStation licensing offers peace of mind for compatibility.
- Extremely high read speeds for superior performance.
- Pre-installed, optimized heatsink for easy installation and effective cooling.
- Generous storage capacities available.
- Ability to play PS5 games directly from the drive.
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Cons:
- Premium price point due to official licensing and performance.
- PlayStation Plus trial is only for new subscribers.
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User Impressions: Users consistently rave about the SN850P’s plug-and-play simplicity and the immediate, noticeable boost in game loading times. The official licensing is a huge draw for many, assuring them of a hassle-free upgrade. It’s often cited as the go-to choice for those seeking the best possible experience without any guesswork.
Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 1TB, NVMe M.2, Speeds Up…
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is another top-tier contender, pushing the boundaries of PCIe 4.0 performance. Samsung is renowned for its flash memory technology, and this SSD lives up to that reputation, offering incredible read and write speeds that significantly reduce load times across the board. Its advanced thermal control, thanks to a nickel-coated controller and integrated heatsink, ensures that this drive maintains peak performance without throttling, even during extended gaming sessions. Plus, the subtle RGB LED lighting adds a touch of flair inside your console.
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Key Features:
- Ultimate PCIe 4.0 performance with up to 7450/6900 MB/s read/write speeds.
- Optimized for gaming, video editing, and 3D modeling with enhanced random speeds.
- Breakthrough power efficiency for sustained high performance.
- Samsung’s nickel-coated controller provides advanced thermal control, perfect for PS5.
- Over 55% improvement in random performance for faster game loads.
- Includes RGB LED lights for aesthetic appeal.
- Compatible with Samsung Magician software for optimization and monitoring.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast speeds, among the best on the market.
- Excellent thermal management prevents overheating and performance drops.
- Improved power efficiency compared to previous models.
- RGB lighting adds a nice touch for PC users (though less visible in PS5).
- Reliable brand with in-house component production.
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Cons:
- Premium price tag.
- RGB lighting isn’t visible once installed inside the PS5.
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User Impressions: Gamers and tech enthusiasts alike highly praise the 990 PRO for its blistering speeds and rock-solid reliability. Many users report a significant improvement in load times for PS5 titles, making the gaming experience much smoother. Its robust heatsink design is frequently highlighted as a major benefit, instilling confidence in its long-term performance.
MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC…
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 offers a compelling blend of high performance and value, making it an excellent choice for expanding your PS5’s storage. Boasting impressive PCIe 4.0 speeds and a generous 2TB capacity, it ensures you have plenty of room for dozens of games and swift loading times. What really sets this drive apart is its dual cooling solution: a built-in graphene composite heatsink and an additional uninstalled heatsink included in the box, giving you flexibility and robust thermal management to keep things cool under pressure.
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Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 interface with read/write speeds up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s.
- Fully compatible with PS5, laptops, and PCs.
- M.2 2280 form factor for compact and easy installation.
- Large 1TB/2TB storage capacity, fitting up to 50 games (2TB model).
- Utilizes high-quality 3D NAND flash and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink, with an additional heatsink, screws, and screwdriver included.
- Undergoes rigorous 80-hour testing for stability and longevity.
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Pros:
- Very high read and write speeds comparable to premium models.
- Excellent thermal management with dual heatsink options.
- Ample storage capacity for a growing game library.
- Comes with installation tools (screws, screwdriver).
- Competitive pricing for its performance level.
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Cons:
- The included heatsink needs manual installation.
- A lesser-known brand compared to Samsung or WD_BLACK.
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User Impressions: Customers are pleasantly surprised by the performance of the MOVE SPEED HB7450, often noting that it punches above its weight for the price. The speeds are consistently praised, and the inclusion of installation tools and a comprehensive cooling solution is a big plus, making the upgrade process straightforward for many.
Fikwot FX991 M.2 SSD 1TB NVMe SSD M2 2280 PCIe…
The Fikwot FX991 M.2 SSD is a strong contender for those seeking high performance without breaking the bank. It delivers lightning-fast read and write speeds, significantly cutting down on loading times and enhancing overall system responsiveness. One of its standout features is the intelligent thermal management system, which includes an auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and a high-conductivity graphite heatsink, ensuring stable performance even during peak usage. This drive is built for speed and efficiency, making it a reliable choice for your PS5.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4×4 interface with maximum read/write speeds of 7100MB/s and 6100MB/s.
- Excellent thermal management with auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and graphite heatsink.
- Features HMB (Host Memory Buffer) and smart SLC cache for improved performance.
- Supports TRIM, S.M.A.R.T, and AES-256 encryption.
- Broad compatibility with laptops, desktops, and PS5.
- Backed by a 5-year limited service or 600TBW warranty.
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Pros:
- Very fast speeds, meeting and exceeding PS5 requirements.
- Intelligent thermal control for sustained performance.
- HMB and SLC cache technologies enhance responsiveness.
- Strong 5-year warranty provides peace of mind.
- Excellent compatibility, including PS5.
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Cons:
- Heatsink comes as a separate graphite sticker, requiring careful application.
- Brand recognition might be lower for some users.
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User Impressions: Users report excellent speed performance from the Fikwot FX991, with games loading noticeably faster. Many appreciate the inclusion of the graphite heatsink for thermal stability. It’s seen as a solid, cost-effective alternative to more premium brands, offering great value for its performance.
fanxiang 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen 4 Gaming SSD for…
Designed with hardcore gamers in mind, the fanxiang S880E 2TB NVMe SSD is a robust option for those looking to expand their PS5’s storage without compromising on speed. This drive boasts impressive PCIe Gen 4 x 4 performance, ensuring incredibly fast load times and smooth gameplay. Its innovative thermal control, featuring a multi-layered sticker with graphite coated copper and aluminum foil, efficiently dissipates heat, maintaining peak performance even during intense gaming sessions. It’s not just for gaming; its speed also makes it ideal for professionals handling heavy workloads.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4 x 4 controller with NVMe 2.0 technology, offering sequential read/write speeds up to 7100/5300 MB/s.
- Compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage-enabled PCs for an extreme gaming experience.
- Built with high-quality 3D NAND flash for quick boot times and fast application loading.
- Efficient thermal control via a specially designed multi-layer sticker heatsink.
- Suitable for high-performance computing, professional use, and video editing.
- Comes with a 5-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support.
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Pros:
- High-speed performance for rapid game loading.
- Designed specifically for gaming with PS5 compatibility.
- Effective sticker-based thermal solution.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
- Solid 5-year warranty and customer support.
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Cons:
- Write speeds are slightly lower than some top-tier competitors.
- Thermal solution is a sticker, which might be less robust than a full metal heatsink for some.
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User Impressions: Many users are impressed with the fanxiang S880E’s speed and reliability, especially given its competitive price point. Gamers confirm noticeable improvements in PS5 load times. The large capacity and responsive customer service are frequently highlighted as positives.
Fanxiang 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 Internal Gaming SSD…
The Fanxiang 1TB NVMe SSD is a more compact and streamlined version of its 2TB sibling, but it still packs a punch for PS5 gamers. Its focus is on efficient heat dissipation through a graphite heat dissipation sticker, ensuring the drive stays cool and performs optimally during long gaming sessions. This 1TB capacity is perfect for those who need a substantial storage boost without going overboard, offering a reliable and fast memory expansion for your PS5.
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Key Features:
- Efficient heat dissipation ensured by a graphite heat dissipation sticker.
- PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 internal gaming SSD.
- Reliable memory expansion for PS5.
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Pros:
- Effective cooling solution keeps the drive at optimal temperatures.
- Provides a significant storage upgrade for PS5.
- Good value for a 1TB PCIe Gen4 drive.
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Cons:
- Only a sticker for a heatsink, which might not be as effective as a dedicated metal one.
- Specific read/write speeds not explicitly listed in the provided feature, implying they might not be top-tier.
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User Impressions: Users find this Fanxiang 1TB SSD to be a dependable and straightforward upgrade. They appreciate the cost-effectiveness and the peace of mind that the graphite sticker offers for cooling. It’s often recommended for those seeking a practical and affordable storage solution.
Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2…
The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is an excellent all-around performer, combining impressive speed with thoughtful design. With read speeds up to 7400MB/s, it’s easily twice as fast as many PCIe Gen 3 SSDs, making it ideal for lightning-fast game loading on your PS5. The integrated heatsink is a big bonus, ensuring consistent performance without thermal throttling. Lexar also emphasizes power efficiency, which is a nice touch, and their Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 technology optimizes data transfer for a super smooth experience.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1000TBW endurance.
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs.
- Designed with an integrated 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 transfer speeds and seamless performance.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Backed by a five-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Blazing fast read and write speeds.
- Pre-installed, effective heatsink for easy setup.
- Impressive power efficiency.
- Excellent endurance (TBW rating).
- Strong 5-year warranty.
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Cons:
- May be slightly pricier than some budget options.
- Write speed is good but not quite at the absolute peak of some competitors.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Lexar NM790 for its “set it and forget it” installation thanks to the pre-attached heatsink, and its noticeable speed improvements on the PS5. The reliability and consistent performance are often highlighted, making it a highly recommended choice for many.
fanxiang S660 PCIe 4.0 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD for PS5…
The fanxiang S660 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD is a solid, cost-effective option for expanding your PS5 storage. While its 5000MB/s read speed is slightly below the very top tier, it still comfortably meets Sony’s minimum requirements for PS5 expansion, ensuring swift game launches and an immersive gaming experience. It features a unique heatsink design that helps maintain low temperatures during intensive use, making it a reliable memory expansion for your console. Plus, its versatility extends to PC, offering robust support across various platforms.
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Key Features:
- Efficient performance with speeds reaching 5000MB/s, compatible with PS5.
- Ample storage capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB.
- Unique heatsink design for efficient cooling and sustained performance.
- Versatile connectivity for PS5 and PC.
- Backed by a five-year quality assurance.
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Pros:
- Meets PS5 minimum speed requirements for full compatibility.
- Cost-effective storage expansion.
- Effective cooling design.
- Versatile for use with both PS5 and PC.
- Good 5-year warranty.
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Cons:
- Speed is at the lower end of the recommended range for PS5, though still compliant.
- Specific heatsink type not detailed, could be sticker-based.
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User Impressions: Customers find the fanxiang S660 to be an excellent value proposition. They report that it works perfectly with the PS5, providing a noticeable speed boost over external storage and ample room for games. Its affordability combined with PS5 compatibility makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers.
BUFFALO External SSD 1TB – Up to 600MB/s – USB-C…
The BUFFALO External SSD is a different beast compared to the internal M.2 drives we’ve discussed. This compact and rugged external stick SSD is fantastic for expanding your overall game library, particularly for PS4 titles you want to keep on hand without cluttering your internal PS5 storage. While it can store PS5 games, remember that PS5 games cannot be played directly from an external USB drive; they must be transferred back to the internal SSD or a compatible internal M.2 NVMe SSD. However, for PS4 games, it’s a dream, offering quick access and reduced loading times. Its portability and durability make it great for on-the-go data management.
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Key Features:
- Compact and reliable external SSD, compatible with PS4/PS5 (storage only for PS5 games), Macs, and PCs.
- Ideal on-the-go accessory for quick data copy and backup.
- Fast speeds up to 600 MB/s for multi-tasking and large file transfers.
- Compact, durable, and shock-resistant stick and retractable form factor.
- USB 3.2 connectivity (USB-C / USB-A compatible).
- Includes a 3-year warranty for registered devices.
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Pros:
- Highly portable and durable design.
- Excellent for storing and playing PS4 games.
- Can store PS5 games (but not play them directly).
- Fast for an external USB drive.
- Good warranty.
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Cons:
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from this drive.
- Slower than internal M.2 NVMe drives.
- Requires a USB port, which might be limited on the console.
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User Impressions: Users love this Buffalo external SSD for its convenience and robust build. It’s highly praised for seamlessly handling PS4 game libraries and providing easy backup for other files. The distinction that it’s for storage of PS5 games, not play, is well-understood by users who purchase it for its specific purpose.
BUFFALO External SSD 1.0TB – Officially Licensed Product…
Another strong offering from Buffalo, this 1TB external SSD is officially licensed for PlayStation, meaning it’s been specifically tested for compatibility with PS5 and PS4 consoles. Like its non-licensed sibling, it’s fantastic for offloading your PS4 game library and storing PS5 game data to free up your console’s internal drive. Its compact, cable-free USB stick design is incredibly convenient, making it super easy to connect without adding clutter. It’s about eliminating storage shortages and reducing PS4 loading times, all in an officially approved package.
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Key Features:
- Officially Licensed external SSD for PS5 / PS4, passed exclusive quality inspection.
- Expands free space on your system by saving PS5 and PS4 game data.
- Reduces game loading times for PS4 games.
- Compact, cable-free USB stick design for easy connection without taking up space.
- Includes Setup Guide and Warranty Statement.
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Pros:
- Official PlayStation licensing for assured compatibility.
- Excellent for offloading PS4 games and improving their load times.
- Can store PS5 game data to free up internal space.
- Ultra-compact and cable-free design.
- Durable and reliable.
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Cons:
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from this drive.
- Slower than internal M.2 NVMe options.
- Limited to a single USB port on the console.
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User Impressions: Users highly value the official licensing for this Buffalo external SSD, noting that it simplifies the decision-making process. They report it’s perfect for managing large PS4 game libraries and providing essential overflow storage for PS5 games. Its compact design is a frequently lauded feature.
Frequently Asked Questions about PS5 SSDs
Q1: What kind of SSD do I need for my PS5?
A1: You need an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. It’s also highly recommended to get one with an integrated heatsink (or add one) to prevent overheating and performance throttling.
Q2: How do I install an SSD in my PS5?
A2: Installing an SSD in your PS5 is relatively straightforward. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. The process involves removing the PS5’s side cover, unscrewing the M.2 SSD expansion slot cover, inserting the SSD, securing it with the provided screw, and then reassembling. Sony provides clear instructions on their official website.
Q3: Do I really need a heatsink for my PS5 SSD?
A3: Yes, a heatsink is crucial. The PS5’s internal M.2 slot can get quite warm during intense gaming sessions. A heatsink helps dissipate that heat, ensuring your SSD maintains optimal performance and prevents thermal throttling, which could slow down your games.
Q4: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
A4: No, unfortunately, you cannot. PS5 games must be played from the console’s internal storage or a compatible internal M.2 NVMe SSD. External USB SSDs can only store PS5 games for archival purposes; you’ll need to transfer them back to internal storage to play them. However, external SSDs are perfect for storing and playing PS4 games.
Q5: What’s the minimum speed requirement for a PS5 SSD?
A5: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. Most of the best SSD cards for PS5 reviewed above comfortably exceed this.
Q6: How much storage do I need for my PS5 SSD?
A6: The PS5 officially supports M.2 SSDs from 250GB up to 8TB. For most gamers, a 1TB or 2TB SSD is a sweet spot, offering significant space for around 15-50+ PS5 games, depending on their size. If you have a massive library, 4TB might be worth considering.
Q7: Is it worth upgrading my PS5 storage?
A7: Absolutely! Upgrading your PS5 storage eliminates the need to constantly delete and redownload games, saving you time and hassle. It also ensures you can take full advantage of the PS5’s lightning-fast loading capabilities across a much larger game library.
Upgrading your PS5’s storage with one of the best SSD cards for PS5 is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your gaming setup. It’s not just about space; it’s about convenience, speed, and unlocking the full potential of your console. Say goodbye to storage anxiety and hello to endless gaming adventures!