Is your PlayStation 5 storage bursting at the seams? Are you tired of constantly deleting games to make space for new ones? You’re not alone! While the PS5 is an incredible console, its internal storage can fill up surprisingly quickly, especially with today’s massive game file sizes. That’s where expanding your storage with a high-performance M.2 NVMe SSD comes in. It’s not just about more space; it’s about unlocking lightning-fast load times and ensuring seamless gameplay directly from your expanded library.
Finding the best SSD for PS5 can seem daunting with so many options out there. You need one that’s fast enough to meet Sony’s demanding specifications, compatible with the console’s M.2 slot, and ideally comes with a heatsink to prevent thermal throttling. A quality internal SSD can significantly enhance your gaming experience, letting you dive into your favorite titles without annoying delays.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive list of 10 top-tier M.2 NVMe SSDs that are perfect for your PS5. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, this guide will help you pick the best SSD for PS5 to suit your needs and budget, giving you peace of mind and plenty of room for all your gaming adventures. Let’s dive in and find the best SSD for PS5 for you!
Our Top 10 Picks for the Best SSD for PS5
1. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PlayStation 5
This SSD is practically tailor-made for your PS5, offering the ultimate in compatibility and performance. It’s officially licensed by PlayStation, meaning you can drop it into your console with absolute confidence that it will work flawlessly, providing seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times. With an integrated, optimized heatsink, installation is a breeze, and you won’t have to worry about thermal issues even during the most intense gaming sessions. Plus, with capacities up to 4TB, you can say goodbye to constantly deleting games.
- Key Features:
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, ensuring full compatibility.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, storing up to 100 games (4TB model).
- Brand-new, optimized heatsink designed specifically for PS5.
- Play directly from the drive without transferring games.
- PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
- Pros:
- Guaranteed compatibility and easy installation due to official licensing.
- Exceptional speed for rapid game loading.
- Effective integrated heatsink prevents overheating.
- Large storage capacities perfect for extensive game libraries.
- Cons:
- Premium price point due to official licensing.
- PlayStation Plus trial might not be useful for existing subscribers.
- User Impressions: Users rave about its “set it and forget it” simplicity and incredible performance. The official license brings significant peace of mind, making it a top choice for PS5 owners who want the easiest and most reliable upgrade.
- See it on Amazon here
2. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
While not officially licensed like its “P” counterpart, the WD_BLACK SN850X is a powerhouse SSD that still delivers exceptional performance for your PS5 (make sure to choose the heatsink version!). It’s built for raw speed and boasts Western Digital’s TLC 3D NAND for impressive capacities. With speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, your games will load in a flash, and you’ll have plenty of room to keep your entire collection ready to play.
- Key Features:
- Top-tier performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s.
- Capacities up to 8TB built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
- Optional heatsink version available for sustained peak performance.
- Supports downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for monitoring and customization.
- Advanced features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
- Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds that meet or exceed PS5 requirements.
- Massive storage options, including an industry-leading 8TB.
- Excellent thermal management with the heatsink version.
- Cons:
- Heatsink is optional, so ensure you select the correct version for PS5.
- Some features (like RGB customization) are PC-specific.
- User Impressions: Gamers love the SN850X for its raw speed and reliability. When paired with the heatsink, it’s frequently cited as a go-to choice for pushing PS5 performance to its limits.
- See it on Amazon here
3. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
Samsung is a giant in flash memory, and their 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD truly lives up to the hype. This Gen 4 drive is engineered for blazing-fast speeds and extreme thermal control, making it a fantastic choice for your PS5. With a slim, integrated heatsink specifically designed for consoles, it slips right into your PS5’s M.2 slot, ensuring your drive stays cool even during marathon gaming sessions. Prepare for incredible load times and smooth performance across your entire game library.
- Key Features:
- Near max performance with read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB for ample storage.
- Ultra-slim Integrated Heatsink designed for PS5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard devices.
- From the world’s #1 flash memory brand.
- Pros:
- Among the fastest SSDs available, maximizing PS5’s potential.
- Reliable brand reputation and high-quality components.
- Effective and slim heatsink for easy PS5 installation.
- Great for heavy computing and fast loading in general.
- Cons:
- Premium price tag.
- Some users might find installation slightly trickier if they’re not used to slim heatsinks.
- User Impressions: Customers consistently praise the 990 PRO’s incredible speed and its ability to drastically reduce loading screens. The slim heatsink is also a huge plus for PS5 compatibility, making it a popular choice.
- See it on Amazon here
4. fanxiang 4TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD for PS5 with Heatsink
Looking for massive storage without breaking the bank? The fanxiang 4TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD with Heatsink offers an impressive balance of capacity, performance, and value. Designed with hardcore gamers in mind, it’s fully compatible with PS5 and DirectStorage, promising faster loads and an extreme gaming experience. Its unique heatsink design ensures consistent high performance by keeping temperatures in check, even during intense, extended gameplay.
- Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 SSD with sequential read/write speeds up to 7300/6300 MB/s.
- Specifically designed for PS5 and DirectStorage compatibility.
- Built-in high-quality 3D NAND flash memory.
- Unique heatsink design for efficient thermal control.
- 5-Year service and lifetime technical support.
- Available in a generous 4TB capacity.
- Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio for a 4TB drive.
- Very fast speeds meeting PS5 requirements.
- Effective built-in heatsink.
- Strong manufacturer support with a 5-year warranty.
- Cons:
- Fanxiang is a lesser-known brand compared to WD or Samsung, which might concern some users.
- Specific long-term reliability might need more time to establish compared to established brands.
- User Impressions: Reviewers are often pleasantly surprised by the performance for the price, noting its solid speeds and effective cooling. It’s considered a great value option for expanding PS5 storage.
- See it on Amazon here
5. BUFFALO External SSD 1TB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5
Hold on, an external SSD? While most of our list focuses on internal M.2 drives, the Buffalo External SSD offers a different kind of storage solution for your PS5. You can’t play PS5 games directly from it, but it’s perfect for storing PS4 titles or backing up PS5 games to save internal space. It’s compact, durable, and highly portable, making it an excellent accessory for managing your game library on the go or freeing up your internal PS5 SSD for current-gen titles.
- Key Features:
- Compact and reliable external SSD.
- Compatible with PS4/PS5 (for PS4 games or PS5 game storage/transfer only), Macs, and PCs.
- Faster speed than traditional HDDs for quick data copying.
- Shock-resistant, rugged design for drop protection.
- USB 3.2 connectivity (supports USB-C / USB-A).
- 3-year warranty (2 years if unregistered).
- Pros:
- Excellent value for an external drive.
- Extremely portable and durable.
- Great for storing PS4 games and freeing up internal PS5 space.
- Plug-and-play simplicity.
- Cons:
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from this drive.
- Not an internal storage expansion, so doesn’t offer the same performance benefits for PS5 games.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate its robust build quality and convenience for expanding their overall PlayStation game library, particularly for PS4 titles. It’s seen as a reliable companion for storage management.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Fikwot FX910 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD for PS5&PC, PCIe Gen4
The Fikwot FX910 is a compelling option for those seeking high performance and broad compatibility for both their PS5 and PC. Boasting ultra-fast read and write speeds, it ensures quick boot-ups and smooth multitasking, perfect for demanding games. The built-in graphite heatsink is a smart addition, keeping the drive cool under heavy loads and maintaining peak performance, which is crucial for the PS5’s requirements.
- Key Features:
- Extreme performance with speeds up to 7300MB/s (read) and 6200MB/s (write) via PCIe 4.0.
- Built-in graphite heatsink for advanced cooling and stability.
- Wide compatibility with PS5 and desktop PCs.
- Up to 4TB large capacity options.
- Easy plug-and-play installation with no driver required.
- 5-Year guarantee and 24/7 support.
- Pros:
- Very high speeds meeting PS5 specifications.
- Effective passive cooling with the graphite heatsink.
- Versatile for both PS5 and PC use.
- Good customer support and warranty.
- Cons:
- Fikwot is a newer brand, so long-term reputation is still building.
- Graphite heatsinks might not be as robust as aluminum ones, though still effective.
- User Impressions: Many users are impressed by the Fikwot FX910’s speed and its effortless compatibility with the PS5. The pre-applied heatsink and ease of installation are frequently highlighted as major positives.
- See it on Amazon here
7. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
MOVE SPEED’s HB7450 SSD is specifically engineered to provide an exceptional storage upgrade for your PS5. Featuring cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, it delivers lightning-fast read/write speeds, drastically reducing game load times and system delays. Its M.2 2280 form factor with a built-in graphene composite heat sink ensures it fits perfectly and stays cool, even during extended gaming sessions. This package even comes with an additional heatsink and tools for easy installation!
- Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface with up to 7450MB/s read and 6500MB/s write speeds.
- Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC, M.2 2280 form factor.
- Large storage capacity up to 2TB (50 games estimate for 2TB).
- Utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash memory chips and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink + additional heatsink, screws, and screwdriver included.
- Rigorously tested for stability and long service life.
- Pros:
- Excellent speeds meeting and exceeding PS5 requirements.
- Includes everything you need for installation (heatsink, screws, screwdriver).
- Strong cooling solutions provided (graphene + extra heatsink).
- Thoroughly tested for reliability.
- Cons:
- Brand might be less familiar to some users.
- Installing the additional heatsink (if desired) adds a step.
- User Impressions: Users praise this drive for its comprehensive package and strong performance. The inclusion of installation tools and multiple heatsink options is a significant bonus, making the upgrade process very user-friendly.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
Lexar is a well-known name in storage, and their NM790 SSD with Heatsink brings reliable, high-performance storage to your PS5. Designed with a heatsink to keep temperatures down and boost power efficiency, this drive ensures sustained performance without throttling. With impressive read/write speeds that are twice as fast as PCIe Gen 3 SSDs, it’s a solid upgrade for gamers looking for a reputable brand and smooth 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 transfer speeds.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- High speeds meeting PS5 specifications.
- Integrated heatsink for effective cooling.
- Reputable brand with a strong warranty.
- Efficient power consumption.
- Cons:
- While excellent, 1TB might be limiting for some users with very large game libraries.
- Not the absolute fastest in the lineup, but still well above PS5 minimums.
- User Impressions: Lexar fans appreciate the brand’s reliability and the NM790’s consistent performance. It’s often chosen for its balance of speed, efficiency, and the included heatsink, making it a hassle-free PS5 upgrade.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe x4 Gen4
Corsair is a giant in PC gaming components, and their MP600 PRO LPX brings that expertise to the PS5. This SSD is purpose-built to exceed all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements, ensuring your large game files load faster than ever. It features a pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader, which is crucial for dissipating heat and maintaining sustained high performance right out of the box, making it an excellent choice for expanding your console’s storage.
- Key Features:
- Extreme Gen4 Storage Performance on PS5: up to 7,100MB/sec sequential read and 6,800MB/sec write speeds.
- High-speed PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe 1.4 Interface.
- Capacities from 500GB to a massive 4TB.
- Exceeds all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements.
- Pre-installed Low-Profile Aluminum Heatspreader for optimal cooling.
- Pros:
- Guaranteed to meet or exceed PS5 performance requirements.
- Excellent sequential read/write speeds.
- Effective pre-installed low-profile heatsink, perfect for PS5.
- Wide range of capacities to choose from.
- Cons:
- Can be a bit pricier than some lesser-known brands.
- No specific cons related to performance or PS5 compatibility.
- User Impressions: Corsair’s reputation for quality shines through here. Users report seamless installation and immediate, noticeable improvements in load times, making it a highly recommended choice for serious PS5 gamers.
- See it on Amazon here
10. fanxiang 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 SSD for PS5
Another solid offering from fanxiang, this 2TB NVMe SSD provides an efficient and cost-effective storage solution for your PS5. While its speeds are slightly lower than some top-tier drives on this list, at 5000MB/s, they still comfortably meet and exceed Sony’s minimum requirements for PS5 expansion. The included graphite heat dissipation sticker helps maintain optimal temperatures during intense usage, ensuring reliable performance without thermal throttling. It’s a versatile choice for both PS5 and PC users looking for ample storage.
- Key Features:
- Efficient Performance: PCIe Gen4 x4 technology with speeds reaching 5000MB/s.
- Ample Storage Expansion: Capacities from 500GB to 4TB.
- Fast Heat Dissipation: Graphite heat dissipation sticker for low temperatures.
- Wide Compatibility: Optimal for PS5, desktops, and laptops.
- 5-Year Service and lifetime technical support.
- Pros:
- Meets PS5 speed requirements at a competitive price.
- Effective passive cooling solution.
- Good range of capacities.
- Strong warranty and support.
- Cons:
- Speeds are on the lower end of Gen4 drives (though still more than enough for PS5).
- The heatsink is a sticker, which might be less robust than a full aluminum heatsink.
- User Impressions: Users find this fanxiang SSD to be a fantastic value. It performs reliably for PS5 gaming, and its straightforward installation combined with a competitive price makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Your PS5 SSD Questions Answered
Q1: Why do I need an SSD for my PS5?
The PS5 has a relatively limited amount of usable internal storage (around 667GB), which fills up quickly with modern game sizes. Adding an M.2 NVMe SSD allows you to expand this storage significantly, letting you download and keep more games ready to play without constantly deleting and redownloading. It also ensures lightning-fast load times for PS5 games, as you can play them directly from the expanded storage.
Q2: What kind of SSD does the PS5 use for expansion?
The PS5 requires a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD. It must meet specific speed and physical dimension requirements. Sony recommends a drive with sequential read speeds of 5,500 MB/s or faster.
Q3: Is a heatsink necessary for PS5 SSDs?
Yes, Sony highly recommends or requires a heatsink for any M.2 SSD installed in the PS5. The console’s internal environment can get hot, and a heatsink helps dissipate heat from the SSD, preventing thermal throttling (where the drive slows down to prevent overheating) and ensuring consistent peak performance. All the recommended drives above either come with a heatsink or have an option for one.
Q4: How do I install an SSD in my PS5?
Installing an SSD in your PS5 is surprisingly straightforward! You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver. Simply power down your PS5, unplug all cables, and place it on a soft surface. Remove the console’s cover, locate the M.2 expansion slot (usually under a small metal cover), insert the SSD at an angle, secure it with a screw, replace the cover, and then power your PS5 back on. The PS5 will guide you through the formatting process.
Q5: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 warranty?
No, installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 will not void your warranty, as Sony officially supports user-installed storage expansion. Just make sure to follow the official installation guide provided by Sony or the SSD manufacturer.
Q6: Can I use an external SSD for PS5 games?
You can use an external USB SSD with your PS5, but with a major limitation: you can only store and play PS4 games directly from an external drive. PS5 games cannot be played from an external SSD; they must be stored on either the console’s internal drive or an installed internal M.2 NVMe SSD. However, an external drive is useful for storing PS5 games to free up internal space, but you’ll have to transfer them back to the internal or M.2 SSD to play them.
Q7: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen3 and Gen4 SSDs for PS5?
PCIe Gen4 SSDs are significantly faster than Gen3 SSDs. The PS5 requires a Gen4 drive because its internal architecture is designed to leverage these higher speeds for faster game loading and streaming of assets. While some Gen3 drives might physically fit, they won’t meet the PS5’s performance requirements and won’t work for playing PS5 games.