So, you’ve got your hands on the powerful PS5 Pro, and you’re ready to dive into the next generation of gaming. But let’s be real, even with its enhanced capabilities, the internal storage can fill up faster than you can say “trophy unlocked.” That’s where an M.2 NVMe SSD comes in, letting you expand your game library and enjoy lightning-fast load times. Finding the best SSD for PS5 Pro is crucial for unlocking its full potential.
Adding an internal SSD isn’t just about more space; it’s about seamless gameplay. No more deleting beloved titles just to make room for the latest blockbuster! A high-speed drive ensures your games run smoothly, reducing those pesky loading screens that break your immersion. We’ve done the research to bring you our top picks for the best SSD for PS5 Pro, ensuring you get the speed, reliability, and compatibility you need.
Let’s dive into the contenders and find the perfect storage upgrade for your PlayStation 5 Pro.
Our Top Picks for the Best SSD for PS5 Pro
1. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a titan in the SSD world, offering blistering speeds and rock-solid reliability that makes it an easy choice for the best SSD for PS5 Pro. This drive is built to deliver near-max PCIe Gen4 performance, ensuring your games load in the blink of an eye and heavy computing tasks are handled with ease. With its integrated heatsink, it’s specifically designed to maintain optimal temperatures, preventing throttling and ensuring consistent high performance during intense gaming sessions on your PS5 Pro.
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Key Features:
- Blazing sequential read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- PCIe Gen4 interface for cutting-edge performance.
- More than 55% improvement in random performance over previous models.
- Ultra-slim integrated heatsink for effective heat dissipation.
- Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
- Designed with PS5 compatibility in mind.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for gaming and data-intensive tasks.
- Samsung’s renowned reliability and build quality.
- Efficient integrated heatsink prevents overheating.
- Wide range of storage capacities available.
- Smooth and easy installation in the PS5 Pro.
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Cons:
- Premium price point compared to some competitors.
- May be overkill if your primary use is only storing older, less demanding games.
User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the 990 PRO for its incredible speed and noticeable reduction in load times. Many highlight how effortlessly it slots into the PS5, making the upgrade a breeze. The consistent performance even during long play sessions is a frequently mentioned positive.
2. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
When it comes to official PlayStation gear, the WD_BLACK SN850P stands out as an unbeatable option. This isn’t just any SSD; it’s officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles, meaning you get guaranteed compatibility and peace of mind. Its optimized heatsink is specifically designed to fit the PS5’s M.2 slot perfectly, making installation a non-issue. If you want a no-fuss, high-performance PS5 storage upgrade that’s been given the Sony stamp of approval, the SN850P is your go-to.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles.
- Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for rapid game loading.
- Optimized heatsink designed specifically for PS5 console.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, storing up to 100 games (4TB model).
- Allows direct gameplay from the drive, no transfers needed.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
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Pros:
- Guaranteed compatibility with PS5 Pro thanks to official licensing.
- Excellent speeds for next-gen gaming.
- Heatsink is perfectly sized for PS5 installation.
- Massive storage capacities available for extensive game libraries.
- Easy, worry-free installation.
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Cons:
- Might carry a slight premium due to the official licensing.
- The PlayStation Plus trial is a limited-time offer.
User Impressions: Users love the “set it and forget it” aspect of the SN850P, praising its seamless integration and robust performance. The official licensing gives many an extra layer of confidence, and the speed improvements are frequently highlighted as transformative for their gaming experience.
3. Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe x4 Gen4
The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX is built for serious gamers who demand extreme performance. This PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD not only meets but exceeds all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements, ensuring your games load faster than ever directly from the SSD. Its low-profile aluminum heatspreader is pre-installed and highly effective, helping to disperse heat efficiently and prevent thermal throttling, which is crucial for sustained high performance in the PS5 Pro’s compact M.2 slot.
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Key Features:
- Extreme Gen4 storage performance with up to 7,100MB/sec sequential read and 6,800MB/sec sequential write speeds.
- High-speed PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe 1.4 Interface.
- Exceeds all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements.
- Available in capacities from 500GB to 4TB.
- Pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader for optimal thermal management.
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Pros:
- Outstanding speed, fully optimized for PS5.
- Effective low-profile heatsink ensures stable performance.
- Wide range of capacity options to suit any game library.
- Reliable brand reputation in PC components.
- Simple plug-and-play installation for PS5.
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Cons:
- The low-profile heatsink, while good, might be slightly less robust than some larger custom heatsinks.
- Not officially licensed, though fully compatible.
User Impressions: Customers are very happy with the MP600 PRO LPX’s raw speed and its ability to significantly cut down on load times. Many appreciate the pre-attached heatsink, which simplifies installation and ensures stable operation. It’s often recommended as a great value-for-money high-performance option.
4. Samsung SSD 9100 PRO with Heatsink 2TB, PCIe 5.0×4 M.2
While the PS5 Pro currently leverages PCIe Gen4 technology, the Samsung 9100 PRO with Heatsink steps into the future with breakthrough PCIe 5.0 performance. Boasting incredible sequential read/write speeds up to 14,800/13,400 MB/s, it’s twice as fast as its Gen4 predecessors. While your PS5 Pro won’t fully utilize these Gen5 speeds, this SSD is designed for compatibility with PS5, offering top-tier performance at Gen4 speeds and excellent future-proofing. It’s an ultra-fast, ultra-efficient drive that ensures your PS5 Pro runs incredibly smoothly, with the added benefit of cutting-edge tech.
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Key Features:
- Breakthrough PCIe 5.0 performance (up to 14,800/13,400 MB/s sequential read/write speeds).
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 (performs at Gen4 speeds on PS5).
- Advanced 5nm controller boosts power efficiency by up to 49%.
- Slim, integrated heatsink ensures optimal thermal control.
- Available with massive storage capacities up to 8TB.
- Includes Magician Software for drive health monitoring and updates.
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Pros:
- Extreme, future-proof performance for PC and excellent performance for PS5.
- Highly power-efficient and runs cool.
- Massive storage options available.
- Top-tier Samsung reliability and support.
- Integrated heatsink for easy installation.
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Cons:
- PS5 Pro cannot fully utilize the Gen5 speeds, so some potential is left on the table (for now).
- Highest price point among the options due to Gen5 technology.
User Impressions: Early adopters marvel at the sheer speed of the 9100 PRO, even when used in Gen4 compatible systems like the PS5. They appreciate the future-proofing aspect and the consistent, cool operation thanks to the efficient heatsink. It’s seen as an investment in the cutting edge.
5. Predator M.2 SSD 2TB GM7000 with DRAM Cache NVMe 1.4
The Predator GM7000 from Acer is a strong contender for the best SSD for PS5 Pro, offering a fantastic blend of high performance and value. Utilizing the PCIe Gen4 standard, it delivers impressive sequential read speeds up to 7400 MB/s, putting it right up there with the top-tier drives. What truly sets it apart is its customized heat spreader designed for efficient heat dissipation, ensuring stable performance even during the most demanding gaming marathons. Plus, the inclusion of Acronis Clone Software is a nice bonus for easy data migration.
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Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 standard with sequential read speeds up to 7400 MB/s and write speeds up to 6700 MB/s.
- Customized heat spreader for enhanced heat dissipation.
- Integrated PMU (Power Management Unit) for optimized energy efficiency.
- Includes free Acronis True Image clone software for easy data transfer.
- Built with 3D NAND TLC and DRAM cache for reliability and endurance.
- Comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 performance at a competitive price point.
- Effective heat management with its custom heat spreader.
- Energy-efficient design.
- Useful Acronis software included for cloning.
- Robust warranty for peace of mind.
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Cons:
- Less well-known brand in the SSD space compared to Samsung or WD_Black.
- No official PS5 licensing.
User Impressions: Users praise the GM7000 for its impressive speed and reliable performance, often noting it offers comparable results to more expensive drives. The effective cooling and the included cloning software are frequently highlighted as excellent added value. It’s considered a solid, budget-friendly high-performance choice.
Frequently Asked Questions about PS5 Pro SSDs
Q1: Why do I need an SSD for my PS5 Pro?
A1: While the PS5 Pro comes with internal storage, it can fill up quickly with modern game sizes. An additional M.2 NVMe SSD allows you to significantly expand your game library without constantly deleting and redownloading games. More importantly, these high-speed SSDs often offer faster load times and smoother gameplay for games stored on them compared to the console’s standard internal storage for certain titles.
Q2: What type of SSD does the PS5 Pro require?
A2: The PS5 Pro requires an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD. It needs to have a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. It also needs to be equipped with a heatsink (or you’ll need to add one) to prevent overheating and ensure stable performance during intense gaming.
Q3: Is a heatsink really necessary for a PS5 Pro SSD?
A3: Yes, a heatsink is highly recommended, and often effectively required, for an SSD installed in the PS5 Pro. High-performance NVMe SSDs generate a significant amount of heat, especially during gaming. Without proper heat dissipation, the drive can overheat, leading to “thermal throttling” where its performance is reduced to protect itself. A heatsink helps maintain optimal operating temperatures, ensuring consistent, high-speed performance.
Q4: How much storage capacity should I get for my PS5 Pro SSD?
A4: This depends on your gaming habits. Given that many PS5 games can be 100GB or more, a 1TB SSD is a good starting point for a moderate game library. However, for serious gamers with a large collection, 2TB is often the sweet spot, providing ample space for many AAA titles. If you download games frequently and rarely uninstall them, 4TB or even higher capacities are available.
Q5: Can I use a PCIe Gen5 SSD in my PS5 Pro?
A5: Yes, you can use a PCIe Gen5 SSD in your PS5 Pro, provided it fits the M.2 slot and has a heatsink. However, the PS5 Pro’s M.2 slot is designed for PCIe Gen4 speeds. This means a Gen5 SSD will operate at Gen4 speeds within the console, so you won’t experience the full potential of its Gen5 capabilities. Despite this, it will still perform exceptionally well and meet all the PS5 Pro’s speed requirements.
Q6: How do I install an SSD in my PS5 Pro?
A6: Installing an SSD in your PS5 Pro is a straightforward process that typically takes 10-15 minutes. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. The process involves removing the console’s side cover, unscrewing the M.2 expansion slot cover, inserting the SSD into the slot, securing it with a screw, and then reassembling the console. Sony provides clear official instructions on their support website, which you should always follow.
Q7: Will an SSD improve my PS5 Pro’s performance beyond load times?
A7: Primarily, an SSD upgrade significantly improves load times for games and applications. While the PS5 Pro’s internal SSD is already very fast, adding another high-speed drive ensures consistent performance across your entire game library. In some cases, games that stream assets rapidly might see slight improvements in texture pop-in or overall fluidity, but the most noticeable benefit will always be the reduction in loading screens.