Are you constantly running out of space on your PlayStation 5? Do you find yourself deleting games just to make room for new ones? You’re not alone! The PS5’s internal storage, while speedy, can feel pretty tight once you’ve installed a few AAA titles. Good news: upgrading your console’s storage is surprisingly easy thanks to the M.2 SSD expansion slot. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best M.2 SSD for PS5?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the homework for you, diving deep into the world of high-speed storage to bring you a curated list of top-notch M.2 SSDs perfect for your PlayStation 5. Let’s get your gaming library back on track!
Why You Need an M.2 SSD for Your PS5
Simply put, more games and faster loading. The PS5’s internal SSD is blazing fast, and Sony made sure any expandable storage lives up to that standard. By installing an M.2 NVMe SSD into the dedicated slot, you can:
- Expand Your Game Library: Store dozens, even hundreds, more games without constantly juggling installations.
- Play Directly from the SSD: Unlike external hard drives, you can play PS5 games directly from the M.2 SSD, enjoying the same lightning-fast load times as the internal drive.
- Maintain Peak Performance: A compatible M.2 SSD won’t slow down your gaming experience; it’ll seamlessly integrate with your console.
How to Choose the Best M.2 SSD for PS5
Before we jump into the reviews, here’s a quick rundown of what to look for when selecting the best M.2 SSD for PS5:
- PCIe Gen4 Compliance: Your SSD must be a PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD. This ensures it meets the speed requirements.
- Speed: Sony recommends a read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. All the drives on our list meet or exceed this.
- Heatsink: This is CRUCIAL. M.2 SSDs can generate a lot of heat, especially under load. A heatsink helps dissipate this heat, preventing performance throttling. Many top drives come with one pre-attached, which is ideal for the PS5’s snug slot.
- Capacity: Decide how much extra space you need. Common capacities for PS5 users are 1TB, 2TB, and even 4TB.
Now, let’s look at some of the best M.2 SSD for PS5 options out there!
Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM790 is a fantastic dark horse in the M.2 SSD race, offering incredible performance that often outpaces its price point. It’s a superb choice for PS5 owners looking for top-tier speed without breaking the bank. With its pre-installed heatsink, it’s ready to slot right into your console and significantly boost your storage, keeping your games loading quickly and your system cool. It’s designed for efficiency, meaning less power consumption while still delivering screaming fast data transfers.
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Key Features:
- 2TB capacity with exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
- 1500TBW endurance rating
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool 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 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for a smoother transfer speed and seamless performance
- Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Five-year limited warranty
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Pros:
- Excellent read/write speeds, exceeding PS5 requirements
- Integrated heatsink for hassle-free installation
- Great value for the performance it offers
- Lower power consumption is a bonus
- High endurance rating for longevity
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Cons:
- Lexar might not have the same brand recognition as WD or Samsung for some users
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User Impressions: Many users are pleasantly surprised by the NM790’s performance, often noting it performs on par with more expensive drives. The pre-installed heatsink and straightforward PS5 compatibility are frequently praised, making it a “set it and forget it” upgrade.
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN850X is built from the ground up for serious gamers. This isn’t just about speed; it’s about optimizing your entire gaming experience. With ridiculous load times and features like Predictive Loading, it aims to keep you in the action. The 2TB model with an integrated heatsink ensures your PS5 runs cool even during marathon sessions, making it one of the most reliable and performance-driven choices for expanding your console’s capabilities.
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Key Features:
- Top-tier performance with speeds up to 7,300 MB/s read
- Capacities built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND
- Optional heatsink version to help maintain peak performance (this model includes it)
- Downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) monitors drive health and can customize RGB lighting (on heatsink versions)
- Future-forward features including Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM)
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Pros:
- Blazing fast speeds that surpass PS5 requirements
- Designed specifically with gaming performance in mind
- Reliable Western Digital brand
- Integrated heatsink ensures stable performance
- Advanced features like Predictive Loading for smoother gameplay
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Cons:
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows-only, so PS5 users won’t utilize that feature.
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User Impressions: Gamers consistently rave about the SN850X’s speed and reliability. PS5 owners specifically highlight how easy it is to install and how seamlessly it integrates, delivering identical load times to the console’s internal storage.
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
When it comes to peace of mind, the WD_BLACK SN850P takes the cake. This M.2 SSD isn’t just compatible with your PS5; it’s officially licensed by PlayStation. That means it’s been rigorously tested and approved to work perfectly, guaranteeing seamless installation and optimal performance for your console. Its optimized heatsink is tailor-made for the PS5’s M.2 slot, making it an incredibly convenient and worry-free upgrade solution for your gaming needs.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, ensuring compatibility
- 2TB capacity, providing ample space for games
- Optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console for easy, worry-free installation
- Play directly from the drive without transferring or deleting games
- Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe
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Pros:
- Official PlayStation licensing ensures 100% compatibility and reliability
- Pre-installed, optimized heatsink for perfect PS5 fit
- Exceptional read speeds for rapid game loading
- Seamless “play directly from drive” experience
- Bonus PlayStation Plus trial is a nice touch
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Cons:
- Might come at a slight premium due to the official licensing.
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User Impressions: PS5 owners absolutely love the SN850P for its “plug-and-play” simplicity. The official licensing provides a strong sense of confidence, and users confirm that game performance from this drive is indistinguishable from the console’s internal storage.
SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO is a powerhouse in the SSD world, and the version with the integrated heatsink is an absolute dream for PS5 users. Samsung is a global leader in flash memory, and the 990 PRO lives up to that reputation, delivering “blazing speed” and “cool victory.” It’s engineered to push the limits of PCIe 4.0, offering incredible read and write speeds that will make your game loads practically disappear. If you want top-of-the-line performance and reliability from a trusted brand, this is a prime contender for the best M.2 SSD for PS5.
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Key Features:
- Near max PCIe Gen 4 performance with lightning-fast speeds (up to 7450/6900 MB/s read/write)
- Integrated Heatsink for improved temperature control
- More than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB (this review focuses on 2TB)
- Ultra-slim Integrated Heatsink designed to dissipate heat and prevent performance issues
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops and laptops
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Pros:
- Industry-leading speeds, among the fastest available
- Comes with an efficient, slim heatsink perfect for PS5
- Reliable and reputable Samsung brand
- Excellent for heavy gaming, video editing, and data analysis
- High endurance rating
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Cons:
- Often carries a premium price tag due to its top-tier performance and brand.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 990 PRO’s raw speed and stability. PS5 owners specifically highlight its seamless installation and the noticeable improvement in overall game loading times, affirming its status as a premium upgrade.
WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN7100 is designed for high-octane gaming, offering impressive speeds and efficiency. While its primary focus is often on laptops and handheld gaming devices due to its power efficiency, it can still serve as a storage expansion for your PS5. However, it’s important to note that this particular model typically does not come with an integrated heatsink necessary for PS5 installation. If you choose this drive for your PS5, you’ll need to purchase a compatible M.2 heatsink separately to ensure optimal performance and thermal management within the console’s M.2 slot.
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Key Features:
- High-octane gaming performance with speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models)
- Up to 35% faster performance than previous generation
- Purpose-built with a PCIe Gen4 interface and Western Digital’s next generation TLC 3D NAND
- Available in multiple capacities up to 4TB
- Built with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, with up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation
- Up to 2,400TBW endurance (4TB model)
- WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for optimization
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Pros:
- Very fast speeds for gaming and demanding applications
- Excellent power efficiency
- High endurance for long-term use
- Reputable Western Digital brand
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Cons:
- Does NOT come with an integrated heatsink, which is essential for PS5 use. Users must buy and install one separately.
- Optimized more for portable devices, making PS5 installation slightly less convenient out-of-the-box compared to other options on this list.
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows-only.
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User Impressions: Users generally commend the SN7100 for its strong performance and reliability in PC and laptop builds. For PS5, those who’ve used it confirm it works well once a heatsink is added, but the extra step is a key consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions about PS5 M.2 SSDs
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5?
The PS5 comes with a fast but limited 825GB internal SSD (with about 667GB usable). Installing an M.2 SSD expands this storage, allowing you to download and store many more PS5 and PS4 games directly on the console without constantly deleting old ones.
Q2: What are the minimum requirements for a PS5 compatible M.2 SSD?
Sony requires a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. It also must have a heatsink, whether integrated or separately attached, to prevent overheating.
Q3: Do I need a heatsink for my PS5 M.2 SSD?
Yes, absolutely! Heatsinks are crucial for dissipating the heat generated by these high-speed SSDs. Without one, the SSD can overheat and throttle its performance, potentially even damaging the drive or affecting your console.
Q4: How much storage capacity should I get?
This depends on your gaming habits. 1TB is a good starting point for a decent amount of extra games. 2TB is often considered the sweet spot for many gamers, offering ample space for a large library. 4TB is available for serious collectors who want virtually unlimited storage for years to come.
Q5: Can I play PS5 games directly from the expanded M.2 SSD?
Yes! Unlike external USB drives, the M.2 SSD expansion allows you to play PS5 games directly from it, enjoying the same lightning-fast load times as if they were stored on the console’s internal drive.
Q6: Is it difficult to install an M.2 SSD in the PS5?
No, it’s surprisingly straightforward! Sony designed the PS5 with an accessible M.2 slot. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, and the process generally involves removing a side panel, unscrewing a cover, inserting the SSD, and securing it. Sony provides clear instructions, and many video tutorials are available online.
Q7: Will installing an M.2 SSD void my PS5’s warranty?
No, Sony explicitly states that installing a compatible M.2 SSD using their official instructions will not void your PS5’s warranty. Just make sure to follow the guidelines.
Ready to Upgrade Your PS5?
Adding an M.2 SSD is one of the best upgrades you can make for your PlayStation 5. It frees you from storage constraints and lets you dive into your favorite games without the dreaded “storage full” message. Any of the SSDs on this list (with an appropriate heatsink!) will significantly enhance your gaming experience. Choose the best M.2 SSD for PS5 that fits your budget and performance needs, and get back to gaming!