Running out of space on your PlayStation 5? It’s a common dilemma for PS5 owners, especially with those massive game installs. Thankfully, expanding your console’s storage is easier than ever. While the PS5 has a speedy internal SSD, you can greatly increase your game library by adding an external storage solution. But what’s the best external SSD for PS5?
This guide dives into the top contenders, exploring a mix of truly external SSDs perfect for storing PS5 games and playing PS4 titles, along with one exceptional internal SSD option that lets you play PS5 games directly. We’ll break down their features, pros, cons, and user impressions to help you make the perfect choice for your gaming setup. Let’s get your game vault ready!
Understanding PS5 External Storage Options
Before we jump into the products, a quick heads-up:
* External SSDs (Solid State Drives) & HDDs (Hard Disk Drives): These plug into your PS5’s USB port. They are fantastic for storing PS5 games and playing PS4 games directly. However, to play a PS5 game stored on an external SSD or HDD, you’ll need to transfer it back to your PS5’s internal storage first. Transferring from an external SSD is much faster than re-downloading!
* Internal M.2 NVMe SSDs: These drives fit inside a dedicated slot within your PS5 console. Crucially, only these internal M.2 SSDs allow you to directly play PS5 games from the expanded storage, offering speeds comparable to the console’s built-in drive. We’ve included one top-tier internal option in this list for those who want the absolute best performance for PS5 game play.
Now, let’s explore the best external SSD for PS5 options (and one exceptional internal one) that will level up your gaming experience!
The Top External SSDs for PS5
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed…
If you’re looking to play PS5 games directly from expanded storage without any compromises on speed or performance, the WD_BLACK SN850P is the gold standard. While it’s an internal M.2 NVMe SSD rather than an “external” one, it’s officially licensed by PlayStation, ensuring perfect compatibility and seamless integration into your PS5. It comes with an optimized heatsink, meaning you won’t have to worry about overheating during intense gaming sessions, making it arguably the ultimate upgrade for your PS5’s internal storage.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed by PlayStation for guaranteed compatibility.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, storing up to 100 games (4TB model).
- Integrated, optimized heatsink for worry-free installation and cooling.
- Allows direct play of PS5 games from the drive.
- Blazing fast PCIe Gen 4 speeds up to 7,300MB/s read.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
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Pros:
- Only type of storage that allows direct PS5 game playback.
- Extremely fast load times and seamless gameplay.
- Easy, worry-free installation with included heatsink.
- Official PlayStation license ensures reliability.
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Cons:
- Requires opening your PS5 to install (it’s an internal drive).
- Higher price point compared to external HDDs.
- Doesn’t fit the “external” part of the query strictly, but offers superior functionality.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently rave about the WD_BLACK SN850P’s incredible speed and the convenience of playing PS5 titles directly from it. Users highlight its easy installation and the complete elimination of storage concerns, calling it an “essential upgrade” for serious PS5 players.
Seagate Game Drive for PS5 5TB External HDD – USB…
For those who prioritize massive storage capacity at a more accessible price point, the Seagate Game Drive is an excellent pick. While it’s an HDD, not an SSD, it’s officially licensed for PS5 and PS4, making it super simple to set up. Its large 5TB capacity means you won’t have to sacrifice or delete games, making it a perfect “game vault” for your PS4 titles and for storing your PS5 games to free up internal space. Plus, its cool blue LED lighting adds a nice aesthetic touch to your gaming setup.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed with matching firmware for PS5 and PS4.
- Stylish blue LED lighting.
- Huge 5TB capacity to store a massive game library.
- Lightweight and portable design for on-the-go storage.
- Can store PS5 games (requires transfer to console to play).
- Ideal for playing PS4 games directly.
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Pros:
- Massive storage capacity for the price.
- Official licensing ensures seamless compatibility.
- Portable and easy to use.
- Great for archiving PS5 games and playing PS4 titles.
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Cons:
- It’s an HDD, not an SSD, meaning slower transfer speeds than SSDs.
- PS5 games must be transferred to the console’s internal SSD to play.
- Not ideal for those seeking the fastest game load times.
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User Impressions: Players love the sheer amount of space this drive offers, praising its plug-and-play simplicity for PS4 games and its effectiveness as an archive for PS5 titles. Many appreciate the official licensing for peace of mind, though some note the speed difference compared to SSDs for PS5 game transfers.
Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive,…
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a fantastic all-around choice if you’re looking for a truly external best external SSD for PS5 that also offers incredible versatility. Known for its sleek, compact design and robust performance, the T7 boasts impressive read/write speeds, making it lightning-fast for transferring PS5 games or backing up other large files. Its durable aluminum unibody construction provides excellent shock resistance, ensuring your precious game data is safe wherever you take it.
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Key Features:
- Fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s thanks to PCIe NVMe technology.
- Compact design with capacities up to 4TB.
- Extensive compatibility with PCs, mobile phones, and consoles.
- Shock-resistant and fall protection up to 6 feet.
- Can record Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fps) videos directly.
- World’s #1 Flash Memory Brand with in-house component production.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for game transfers.
- Extremely portable and durable.
- Broad compatibility for various devices.
- Reliable performance from a leading brand.
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Cons:
- Higher price per GB than traditional HDDs.
- Not officially licensed, but works perfectly fine.
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend the T7 for its snappy performance, noting how quickly games transfer to and from their PS5. Its compact size and rugged build are also big pluses, making it a go-to for gamers and content creators alike who need reliable, portable storage.
BUFFALO External SSD 1TB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5…
The BUFFALO External SSD offers an excellent balance of value, portability, and reliable performance. It’s designed to be compact and rugged, perfect for gamers who want to carry their game library with them or simply need extra, speedy storage at home. While it’s also ideal for PC and Mac users, its compatibility with PS4 and PS5 makes it a solid contender for expanding your console’s game storage efficiently, reducing those annoying load times and freeing up your internal drive.
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Key Features:
- Compact and reliable SSD.
- Compatible with PS4, PS5, Macs, and PCs.
- Faster speeds than HDDs for quick data transfers.
- Shock-resistant, rugged design for drop protection.
- USB 3.2 connectivity with USB-C / USB-A support.
- Three-year warranty (for registered devices).
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Pros:
- Great value for an external SSD.
- Highly portable and durable.
- Good speeds for game transfers and general use.
- Versatile compatibility.
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Cons:
- Specific speed ratings are not as prominently advertised as some competitors.
- May not be as blisteringly fast as premium NVMe SSDs.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the BUFFALO SSD for its no-nonsense reliability and ease of use. Many highlight its durability and compact size as perfect for travel, and gamers find it significantly improves game transfer times compared to older HDDs.
Avolusion PRO-5X Series 8TB USB 3.0 External Gaming Hard…
If your primary goal is to have an absolutely colossal game library that stretches across PS4 and PS5 titles, the Avolusion PRO-5X Series offers an unparalleled 8TB of storage. This external hard drive (HDD) prioritizes sheer capacity over raw speed, providing a fantastic “cold storage” solution for your PS5 games and allowing you to play all your PS4 games directly. With a robust 7200RPM enterprise-grade internal drive, it’s designed for continuous operation and long-term reliability.
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Key Features:
- Massive 8TB capacity using a 7200RPM enterprise HDD (designed for 24/7 use).
- Compatible with PS5 (for storage) and PS4 (for direct play).
- Faster to copy PS5 games from it than to re-download.
- Premium HDD case with a refurbished, top-tier internal drive.
- Rigorously tested for performance and reliability.
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Pros:
- Unmatched storage capacity in this lineup.
- Cost-effective per terabyte for game archiving.
- Robust and reliable enterprise-grade components.
- Perfect for storing a huge collection of games.
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Cons:
- It’s an HDD, not an SSD, so transfer speeds are slower.
- PS5 games must be transferred to internal SSD to play.
- Not ideal if speed is your absolute top priority.
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User Impressions: Users are thrilled with the immense storage space provided by the Avolusion PRO-5X, making it a dream for archiving extensive game libraries. They find it very reliable for long-term storage, although some acknowledge the slower transfer times for PS5 titles compared to SSDs.
SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C,…
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is built for adventure, and that robust design translates perfectly to a reliable best external SSD for PS5. With blazing fast NVMe performance, this drive is not just quick but also incredibly tough, offering impressive drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance. Whether you’re a gamer who travels frequently or just wants peace of mind at home, this drive’s durability and speed make it a standout choice for storing your digital library.
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Key Features:
- NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for securing the drive.
- Includes password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
- Compatible with USB-C.
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Pros:
- Exceptional durability and ruggedness.
- Very fast transfer speeds.
- Portable and easy to secure.
- Data encryption for privacy.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to extreme ruggedness.
- Not officially licensed (but works perfectly).
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User Impressions: Reviewers consistently praise the SanDisk Extreme for its reliability and speed, especially its ability to withstand accidental drops or spills. Gamers find it an excellent choice for quickly moving large PS5 game files and enjoy its compact form factor.
Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive HDD — USB 3.0…
For straightforward, no-fuss expanded storage, the Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive (HDD) is a classic choice. It’s incredibly easy to set up with its simple plug-and-play functionality, requiring no software installation. While it’s an HDD, making it slower for PS5 game transfers compared to an SSD, its 2TB capacity offers ample space for your PS4 game library and serves as a reliable archive for your PS5 titles, all at a very budget-friendly price.
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Key Features:
- Easily store and access 2TB of content on the go.
- Plug-and-play simplicity with automatic recognition.
- USB 3.0 connectivity.
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, as well as consoles.
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Pros:
- Very affordable per gigabyte.
- Extremely easy to set up and use.
- Reliable for mass storage.
- Good for storing PS5 games and playing PS4 titles.
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Cons:
- It’s an HDD, so it’s significantly slower than an SSD.
- PS5 games must be transferred to console’s internal SSD to play.
- Less durable than SSDs (more susceptible to drops).
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User Impressions: Users value this Seagate drive for its excellent value and dependability as a general storage device. Gamers find it a cost-effective way to expand their PS4 game library and to offload PS5 games when internal space runs low, appreciating its simple functionality.
SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD, Officially Licensed for…
This SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD takes the renowned reliability and performance of SanDisk and combines it with official PlayStation licensing. This means you get a drive that’s not only incredibly fast for moving games but also tested and approved specifically for PlayStation consoles. With robust durability features like IP65 rating and drop protection, this is an excellent best external SSD for PS5 that offers peace of mind along with speedy performance and an added Discord Nitro trial for extra value.
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Key Features:
- Designed, tested, and approved for PlayStation consoles.
- Enhanced speeds up to 1000MB/s for quick game transfers.
- Expands space for new PS5 titles without deleting old ones.
- Includes a 1-month trial of Discord Nitro.
- IP65 rating and up to 3-meter drop protection.
- Backed by a 5-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Official PlayStation licensing ensures seamless experience.
- Very fast transfer speeds for PS5 games.
- Extreme durability for protection against accidents.
- Long warranty period.
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Cons:
- Higher price point than non-rugged SSDs.
- 1TB might be limiting for some users compared to larger drives.
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User Impressions: PlayStation owners particularly appreciate the official licensing, saying it offers extra confidence in performance and compatibility. They frequently mention the drive’s speed for game transfers and its robust build quality as major selling points.
Transcend 1TB External SSD, Up to 1,050MB/s, Dual USB…
The Transcend 1TB External SSD is a powerhouse of speed and versatility packed into an ultra-portable form factor. Its blazing fast 10Gbps transfer speeds make it ideal for quickly handling large game files, and its unique 2-in-1 dual USB-C and USB-A design ensures universal compatibility across virtually all modern devices, including your PS5. Weighing next to nothing, it’s the perfect companion for gamers and professionals alike who need high-speed storage on the go.
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Key Features:
- Blazing fast 1050MB/s read and 950MB/s write speeds.
- Universal compatibility with PS5, Xbox, PC, Mac, Android, etc.
- 2-in-1 Dual USB-C & USB-A design for broad connectivity.
- Ultra-portable and lightweight (just 0.02 lb).
- Pre-formatted as exFAT for seamless plug-and-play.
- Secure One-Time Password (OTP) protection via Transcend Elite software.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for game transfers.
- Unparalleled compatibility with dual USB connectors.
- Extremely compact and light, highly portable.
- Data security features.
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Cons:
- 1TB might not be enough for extensive PS5 libraries.
- Not officially licensed (but fully compatible).
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by this Transcend SSD’s incredible speed and its tiny footprint. The dual USB connectivity is a massive hit, making it incredibly versatile, and gamers find it perfect for swiftly moving games between their console and other devices.
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2…
The Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD delivers robust performance and reliable storage for casual gamers and everyday users alike. With speeds up to 1050MB/s, it significantly outperforms traditional hard drives, making game transfers a breeze. Built to last, it boasts IP55 water and dust resistance and is drop-resistant up to 7.5 feet, ensuring your data is safe even in challenging environments. Its broad compatibility with PS5, PS4, Xbox, and various computer systems makes it a versatile choice for expanding your digital storage.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance up to 1050MB/s.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, drop resistant up to 7.5 ft.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox.
- High-capacity 2TB storage.
- USB-C and USB-A connectivity.
- Includes bonus software (Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image).
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Pros:
- Fast transfer speeds for games.
- Highly durable and built to withstand travel.
- Excellent compatibility across many devices.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
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Cons:
- Not officially licensed.
- May not feel as premium as some competitors, but still performs.
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User Impressions: Customers frequently commend the Crucial X9 for its reliable performance and tough build. Gamers find the 2TB capacity to be a sweet spot for storing a good number of titles, and they appreciate the fast transfer speeds that cut down on wait times.
FAQ: Your Top Questions About PS5 External Storage
Q1: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
A: No, you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external SSD (or HDD). PS5 games must be stored on the console’s internal SSD or an installed M.2 NVMe SSD (like the WD_BLACK SN850P mentioned above) to be played. External SSDs are used for storing PS5 games to free up internal space and for playing PS4 games directly.
Q2: What’s the main difference between an external SSD and an external HDD for PS5?
A: The main difference is speed and durability.
* SSDs (Solid State Drives) are much faster for data transfer, meaning PS5 games will copy to/from your console much quicker. They are also more durable as they have no moving parts.
* HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) are slower but typically offer much larger storage capacities for a lower price. They are more susceptible to damage from drops or impacts.
Q3: How much external storage do I need for my PS5?
A: It depends on your gaming habits.
* 1TB: Good for a casual gamer with a moderate library.
* 2TB: A popular sweet spot, offering plenty of room for many PS5 games to store and a decent PS4 library.
* 4TB+: Ideal for avid gamers with a huge collection of titles or those who hate deleting games.
Q4: How do I set up an external SSD with my PS5?
A: It’s quite simple!
1. Plug the external SSD into a USB port on your PS5 (preferably a USB 3.0/3.1/3.2 port for best speed).
2. Go to Settings > Storage > USB Extended Storage.
3. Select Format as USB Extended Storage. This will format the drive for PS5 use, but it will erase any existing data on it.
4. Once formatted, you can move PS5 games to and from this drive, and play PS4 games directly from it.
Q5: Are officially licensed external drives better for PS5?
A: Officially licensed drives (like some Seagate and SanDisk models) are guaranteed to be fully compatible with your PS5, ensuring seamless functionality and firmware matching. While many non-licensed external SSDs work perfectly fine, the official ones offer an extra layer of assurance for peace of mind.
Q6: Can I use any USB external drive with my PS5?
A: No, not just any drive. The PS5 requires a SuperSpeed USB 5Gbps or faster external hard drive with a minimum capacity of 250GB and a maximum capacity of 8TB. Most modern external SSDs and HDDs meet these requirements.
Q7: Will an external SSD improve PS5 game loading times?
A: An external SSD will significantly improve the time it takes to transfer PS5 games to and from your console’s internal storage compared to an HDD or re-downloading. However, for playing PS5 games, the actual in-game loading times will be dependent on the PS5’s internal SSD or an installed M.2 NVMe SSD, not the external drive.
Q8: Can I transfer my PS4 games from my console to an external SSD?
A: Yes! You can easily transfer PS4 games from your PS5’s internal storage to an external SSD. You can also download and install PS4 games directly to the external SSD and play them from there without transferring them back to the console’s internal storage.