Is your PlayStation 5 storage bursting at the seams? With massive game files becoming the norm, it feels like you’re constantly deleting beloved titles just to make space for new adventures. If you’re tired of playing digital Jenga with your game library, it’s time to consider an external storage solution.
Finding the best external SSD for PS5 can dramatically expand your gaming horizons, offering more space for your growing collection and often speeding up load times for PS4 games. While PS5 games can only be played directly from the console’s internal storage or an installed M.2 NVMe SSD, an external drive is fantastic for storing PS5 titles (requiring a quick transfer back to the console to play) and playing your entire PS4 library directly.
In this guide, we’ll explore some top contenders, including high-performance external SSDs, a budget-friendly external HDD, and even a premium internal M.2 option that many PS5 owners consider for the ultimate storage upgrade. Let’s dive in and find the perfect storage boost for your gaming rig!
Why Your PS5 Needs More Storage
The PlayStation 5 comes with a fast 825GB SSD, but only about 667GB is actually usable for games and apps. Given that many modern AAA games easily consume 100GB or more, that space fills up remarkably fast! An external drive acts as a digital warehouse, letting you:
- Store More Games: Keep all your favorite titles ready to go without constant downloading.
- Play PS4 Games Directly: External SSDs are perfect for running your PS4 backlog with improved load times.
- Offload PS5 Games: Move your PS5 titles to external storage when not playing them, then quickly transfer them back when you’re ready.
- Improve Load Times (for PS4 games): External SSDs are significantly faster than traditional HDDs, leading to quicker loading screens for your PlayStation 4 titles.
How We Chose Our Top Storage Picks
When looking for the best external SSD for PS5 (and other compatible storage solutions), we focused on several key factors:
- Compatibility: Ensuring the drive works seamlessly with your PS5.
- Speed: Especially important for reducing load times for PS4 games and speeding up PS5 game transfers.
- Capacity: Offering enough space to make a real difference to your game library.
- Durability & Design: Portable and robust options that can withstand everyday use.
- Value: Balancing features, performance, and price.
While our primary focus is on external SSDs, we’ve included one top-tier internal M.2 SSD and an external HDD to provide a comprehensive look at popular storage expansion options for your PlayStation 5.
Our Top 5 Picks for Boosting Your PS5 Storage
Here are our handpicked storage solutions, catering to different needs and budgets:
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
If you’re looking for the absolute best performance and seamless integration for your PS5 games, the WD_BLACK SN850P is a phenomenal choice. Unlike the other “external” options on this list, this is an internal M.2 NVMe SSD designed to be installed directly into your PS5’s dedicated expansion slot. This means you can play PS5 games directly from this drive, just like from your console’s built-in storage, eliminating the need for transfers. It’s the ultimate upgrade for speed demons and those who hate waiting.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, ensuring perfect compatibility.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, providing ample space for up to 100 games (4TB model).
- Optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5, making installation easy and worry-free.
- Allows direct gameplay from the drive for PS5 titles.
- Blazing-fast PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for incredibly short load times.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
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Pros:
- Plays PS5 games directly – no transfer needed.
- Extremely fast load and transfer speeds.
- Officially licensed, guaranteeing compatibility and performance.
- Integrated heatsink for optimal thermal management.
- Huge capacities available.
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Cons:
- Requires internal installation (though it’s straightforward).
- Generally more expensive than external SSDs per GB.
- Not “external” in the traditional sense, so less portable.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the SN850P for its incredible speed and ease of installation, noting that it truly feels like a seamless extension of the PS5’s internal storage. The peace of mind from the official license is a huge plus.
Seagate Game Drive for PS5 5TB External HDD – USB
Sometimes, sheer capacity at an affordable price is what you need, and that’s where the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 shines. While it’s an external HDD (Hard Disk Drive) rather than an SSD, it offers a massive 5TB of space, which is perfect for building a colossal game vault. This drive is excellent for storing your PS5 games when you’re not actively playing them, and it’s also officially licensed for PS4, allowing you to play your entire PS4 library directly from the drive. It’s a fantastic solution for budget-conscious gamers who need plenty of room.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed with matching firmware for seamless compatibility with all PS5 and PS4 models.
- Cool blue LED lighting adds a touch of style.
- Massive 5TB capacity means no more sacrificing or redownloading games.
- Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to take your library on the go.
- Stores PS5 games (transfer to console to play) and plays PS4 games directly.
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Pros:
- Huge storage capacity for the price.
- Officially licensed for PS4/PS5 compatibility.
- Excellent for archiving PS5 games and playing PS4 titles.
- Portable and easy to use.
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Cons:
- Being an HDD, it’s significantly slower than SSDs.
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from it (requires transfer back to console).
- Load times for PS4 games won’t be as fast as with an external SSD.
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User Impressions: Users love the massive storage space and the plug-and-play simplicity for PS4 games. They appreciate its official licensing and sleek design, though some note the speed difference compared to SSDs.
BUFFALO External SSD 1TB – Compatible with PS4 / PS5
The BUFFALO External SSD offers a fantastic balance of speed, portability, and value, making it a strong contender for the best external SSD for PS5 if you prioritize versatility. This compact and rugged drive is not just for your console; it’s also great for Macs and PCs, making it a multi-purpose powerhouse. It’s perfect for quickly copying large game data, storing your PS5 titles, and playing PS4 games with improved loading times compared to an HDD.
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Key Features:
- Best value SSD that’s compact and reliable for on-the-go demands.
- Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs, enhancing its utility.
- Faster speeds than traditional HDDs for quicker transfers and improved game loading (for PS4 games).
- Shock-resistant, rugged design provides excellent drop protection.
- Compact form factor to easily carry your data in your pocket.
- USB 3.2 connectivity with both USB-C / USB-A support, plus a 3-year warranty for registered devices.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for an SSD.
- Very compact and highly durable.
- Faster than HDDs for PS4 games and transfers.
- Cross-platform compatibility (PS, Mac, PC).
- Good warranty.
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Cons:
- Not officially licensed for PlayStation.
- Capacities might be lower than some other external drives.
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User Impressions: Customers often highlight its small size, robust build quality, and speedy performance for the price. Its versatility across different devices is frequently praised, making it a solid all-rounder.
Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a powerhouse when it comes to speed, durability, and a sleek design, making it a perennial favorite for gamers and creatives alike. With read/write speeds of up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, it’s almost twice as fast as its predecessor, the T5. This translates to incredibly quick game transfers for your PS5 titles and lightning-fast load times for your PS4 library. Its robust aluminum unibody construction provides excellent shock resistance, ensuring your precious game data is safe wherever you take it.
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Key Features:
- Embedded with PCIe NVMe technology for fast read and write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s.
- Compact design with capacities up to 4TB, allowing you to save exactly what you need.
- Extensive compatibility with PCs, mobile phones, and PlayStation consoles.
- Capable of recording Ultra High Resolution (4K 60fps) videos, supporting iPhone 15 Pro Res 4K.
- Strong, sturdy sidekick with shock resistance and fall protection up to 6 feet.
- Built by the world’s #1 brand for flash memory, ensuring top-tier performance and reliability.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for quick transfers and PS4 game loading.
- Extremely durable and shock-resistant.
- Sleek, compact, and highly portable.
- Wide compatibility beyond just gaming consoles.
- Reliable brand with in-house component production.
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Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Not officially licensed for PlayStation.
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User Impressions: Users consistently rave about the T7’s impressive speed and robust build quality. It’s often recommended for its reliability and its ability to handle large files quickly, making it a trusted companion for any digital task, including gaming.
SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD, Officially Licensed for…
If you’re after an external SSD that’s built like a tank and officially approved for PlayStation, the SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is a standout choice. This drive is designed, tested, and approved specifically for PlayStation consoles, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience. With enhanced speeds up to 1000MB/s, you can quickly transfer games from this external archive to your PS5’s internal storage. Plus, its IP65 rating and 3-meter drop protection mean it can withstand the rigors of travel and accidental bumps, making it incredibly durable for on-the-go gamers.
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Key Features:
- Designed, tested, and officially approved for PlayStation consoles.
- Enhanced speeds up to 1000MB/s for quick transfers to PS5 internal storage.
- Expands space for new and existing PS5 and PS4 titles.
- Includes a 1-month trial of Discord Nitro.
- IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, and up to 3-meter drop protection.
- Backed by SanDisk’s quality and reliability, plus a 5-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Officially licensed and approved by PlayStation for guaranteed compatibility.
- Excellent speed for game transfers and PS4 game play.
- Extremely durable with IP65 rating and drop protection.
- Long 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
- Compact and truly portable.
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Cons:
- May be slightly more expensive than non-licensed alternatives.
- Only up to 1TB listed in the product data, but larger sizes are available.
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User Impressions: This SanDisk drive earns high marks for its ruggedness and the confidence that comes with its official PlayStation licensing. Users appreciate its reliable performance and the peace of mind offered by its durability and extended warranty.
Things to Consider When Buying an External Storage for PS5
Choosing the right storage solution can be tricky with different types available. Here’s a quick guide:
- External SSD vs. External HDD:
- External SSDs (Solid State Drives): Much faster than HDDs. Ideal for playing PS4 games directly with reduced load times and for quick transfers of PS5 games. Generally more expensive per GB.
- External HDDs (Hard Disk Drives): Slower but offer much larger capacities for a lower price. Best for archiving PS5 games you’re not currently playing or storing a massive library of PS4 games where speed isn’t the top priority.
- Internal M.2 NVMe SSD: This is installed inside your PS5 and is the only way to expand storage for directly playing PS5 titles (aside from the console’s built-in drive). They are the fastest option but require a bit of DIY installation.
- Capacity Needs: Think about how many games you play simultaneously. 1TB is a good start, but 2TB or more will give you much more breathing room.
- Compatibility: While most external drives work, officially licensed ones guarantee seamless integration. Make sure the drive has USB 3.0 (or newer) connectivity.
- Speed: For external SSDs, look for high read/write speeds (e.g., 500MB/s+). For internal M.2 SSDs, the PS5 requires at least 5,500MB/s sequential read speed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the difference between an internal M.2 SSD, an external SSD, and an external HDD for PS5?
A:
* Internal M.2 SSD (like WD_BLACK SN850P): Installs inside your PS5’s dedicated slot. This is the only way to expand storage to directly play PS5 games, offering the fastest load and transfer times.
* External SSD (like Samsung T7, Buffalo, SanDisk): Connects via a USB port. You can play PS4 games directly from it with improved load times. For PS5 games, you must transfer them back to the console’s internal storage or an internal M.2 SSD to play them. Offers good speed for transfers and PS4 games.
* External HDD (like Seagate Game Drive): Connects via a USB port. Slower than SSDs but much cheaper per gigabyte. Good for storing large archives of PS5 games (which need to be transferred to play) and playing PS4 games directly (though with slower load times than an external SSD).
Q2: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
A: No, not directly. You can store PS5 games on an external SSD or HDD, but to play them, you’ll need to transfer them back to your PS5’s internal storage or an installed internal M.2 NVMe SSD. Only PS4 games can be played directly from an external USB drive.
Q3: How much storage do I need for my PS5?
A: It really depends on your gaming habits. Given that PS5 games average 50-100GB (or more!), even a 1TB external drive can feel small quickly. 2TB is a good sweet spot for many, offering ample space. If you have a massive game library or anticipate many large titles, 4TB or 5TB might be more suitable.
Q4: What are the speed requirements for PS5 external storage?
A: For external USB drives (SSDs or HDDs), the PS5 requires USB 3.0 or faster. While there’s no strict minimum speed requirement like for internal M.2 SSDs, faster external SSDs (500MB/s+) will offer quicker PS4 game load times and faster transfers of PS5 games. For internal M.2 SSDs, Sony recommends a PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD with sequential read speeds of 5,500 MB/s or faster.
Q5: Can I use any external SSD with my PS5?
A: Most external SSDs with USB 3.0 (or newer) connectivity should work with your PS5. However, officially licensed drives (like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD or Seagate Game Drive) are specifically tested and approved by PlayStation, offering guaranteed compatibility and often seamless integration.
Q6: Is an external HDD or SSD better for PS5?
A: An external SSD is generally “better” if speed and performance are your priority for PS4 games and quick PS5 game transfers. It offers significantly faster load times. An external HDD is “better” if you need vast amounts of storage on a budget, and you’re mostly archiving PS5 games or playing PS4 titles where load times aren’t your primary concern.
Q7: How do I set up an external storage device with my PS5?
A: It’s quite simple!
1. Plug your external SSD or HDD into a USB-A port on the back of your PS5 (the front ones are slower).
2. Go to Settings > Storage.
3. Select USB Extended Storage.
4. Choose Format as Extended Storage. Follow the on-screen prompts. Your PS5 will then format the drive for use, deleting any existing data on it.
Elevate Your PS5 Experience!
Adding extra storage to your PlayStation 5 is one of the best upgrades you can make to enhance your gaming life. Whether you go for the blazing-fast internal M.2 NVMe SSD like the WD_BLACK SN850P, a robust and portable external SSD like the Samsung T7 or SanDisk Extreme, or a capacious external HDD like the Seagate Game Drive, you’ll finally have the space you need. Say goodbye to constant deleting and hello to your ever-growing game vault!