So, you’ve got your hands on the mighty PlayStation 5 Pro, ready for those sweet, sweet enhanced graphics and smoother frame rates. But what about storage? With game sizes constantly ballooning, that internal drive fills up faster than you can say “Spider-Man 2.” That’s where an external M.2 NVMe SSD comes in, transforming your gaming experience by offering lightning-fast load times and ample space for your ever-growing game library. Choosing the best SSD for PS5 Pro isn’t just about throwing any drive in there; it’s about finding one that meets Sony’s strict performance requirements while keeping things cool.
In this guide, we’ll dive into why an SSD upgrade is crucial for your PS5 Pro and review some of the top contenders that will give you a serious edge. Say goodbye to deletion dilemmas and hello to instant action!
Why You Need an SSD Upgrade for Your PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes with a respectable amount of internal storage, but it’s often not enough for avid gamers. Here’s why expanding with an M.2 NVMe SSD is a game-changer:
- Faster Load Times: This is the big one. PS5 Pro games are designed to take advantage of super-fast SSDs. An expansion drive meeting these specs will load games and levels in a flash, getting you into the action quicker.
- More Games, Less Deleting: Ever had to uninstall a beloved game just to make space for a new release? With a high-capacity SSD, those days are over. You can keep dozens of your favorite titles ready to play at a moment’s notice.
- Seamless Gameplay: Play games directly from the expansion drive without any performance compromise. It’s truly a plug-and-play upgrade.
- Future-Proofing: As games get even more graphically intense and complex, their file sizes will only increase. An SSD upgrade ensures your PS5 Pro is ready for whatever the future of gaming throws at it.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an SSD for PS5 Pro
When looking for the best SSD for PS5 Pro, keep these crucial points in mind:
- Speed: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. Going higher is always better for optimal gaming performance.
- Heatsink: This is non-negotiable. High-performance NVMe SSDs generate significant heat. A pre-installed heatsink is essential to prevent thermal throttling, ensuring sustained performance and the longevity of your drive. Make sure it fits within the PS5 Pro’s M.2 slot dimensions.
- Capacity: SSDs for the PS5 Pro range from 250GB to 8TB. For most gamers, 1TB or 2TB offers a great balance of space and value.
- Interface: You’ll need a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD.
- Compatibility: While most drives meeting the above specs will work, some are officially licensed or specifically designed with the PlayStation 5 consoles in mind, which can offer extra peace of mind.
Our Top Picks for the Best SSD for PS5 Pro
Now, let’s dive into the drives that will take your PS5 Pro storage to the next level!
SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
If you’re looking for a serious performance boost for your PS5 Pro, the Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is like hitting a cheat code. This SSD is engineered for blazing speeds and superior thermal control, making it an ideal candidate for heavy-duty gaming and data processing on your PlayStation 5. With Samsung’s reputation for top-tier flash memory, you’re not just getting speed; you’re getting reliability and an optimal gaming experience. It’s designed specifically with the PS5’s dimensions and thermal needs in mind, ensuring a perfect fit and sustained high performance.
Key Features:
– Blazing fast read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, near max performance of PCIe 4.0.
– Integrated ultra-slim heatsink for effective heat dissipation and stable temperatures.
– Up to 4TB storage capacity, perfect for extensive game libraries, video editing, and data analysis.
– Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops/laptops.
Pros:
– Exceptional speeds for rapid game loading and seamless gameplay.
– Highly effective integrated heatsink prevents thermal throttling.
– Samsung’s renowned reliability and quality.
– Available in large capacities to future-proof your storage.
Cons:
– Premium price point due to its top-tier performance.
– Might be overkill for casual users who don’t demand the absolute fastest speeds.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the Samsung 990 PRO for its mind-blowing speed and rock-solid performance in the PS5. Many note a significant reduction in load times, feeling truly “next-gen.” The integrated heatsink is frequently highlighted as a key benefit, keeping the drive cool even during intense gaming sessions. It’s generally considered a fantastic, albeit premium, investment.
Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe x4 Gen4
The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX is purpose-built for extreme Gen4 storage performance on your PS5 Pro. This drive doesn’t just meet Sony’s M.2 performance requirements; it exceeds them, ensuring that large game files load faster than ever directly from the SSD. It’s a fantastic choice for gamers who demand top-tier speed and reliability without fuss. The pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader is a major plus, as it’s designed to fit snugly within the PS5’s M.2 expansion slot while keeping temperatures in check.
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 for maximum bandwidth.
– Exceeds all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements.
– Available in capacities from 500GB to a massive 4TB.
– Pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader for optimal thermal management.
Pros:
– Outstanding speeds that surpass PS5 requirements, ensuring ultra-fast loading.
– Low-profile heatsink is perfectly designed for PS5’s internal slot.
– Wide range of capacity options to suit any game library.
– Corsair’s reputation for quality gaming hardware.
Cons:
– May run slightly warmer than some other options under sustained heavy loads due to its compact heatsink.
User Impressions:
PS5 users rave about the MP600 PRO LPX’s ease of installation and immediate performance boost. They report noticeably quicker load times and seamless gameplay for even the most demanding titles. The pre-installed heatsink is a big hit, making the setup process incredibly simple. It’s frequently recommended for its excellent balance of speed, compatibility, and thermal efficiency.
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed
For ultimate peace of mind and hassle-free installation, the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P is your go-to. This M.2 SSD is officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles, meaning you can install it and play with zero concern about compatibility. It’s been tested and approved by Sony, guaranteeing an optimal experience. The brand-new, optimized heatsink is tailor-made for the PS5, ensuring it dissipates heat effectively while fitting perfectly into the M.2 slot. Plus, you even get a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe to kickstart your expanded game library!
Key Features:
– Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles.
– Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, capable of storing up to 100 games (4TB model).
– Optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5 console for easy, worry-free installation.
– Play directly from the drive, eliminating game transfers or deletions.
– PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
– Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
Pros:
– Official PlayStation licensing guarantees seamless compatibility and performance.
– Heatsink is specifically optimized for the PS5’s M.2 slot.
– Excellent speeds for smooth gameplay and short load times.
– Added bonus of a PlayStation Plus trial.
Cons:
– Might be slightly more expensive due to the official licensing.
User Impressions:
Owners of the WD_BLACK SN850P consistently highlight the “no-brainer” installation process thanks to its official licensing and perfectly sized heatsink. They confirm that games load incredibly fast and run flawlessly directly from the drive. The bundled PlayStation Plus trial is a welcome extra. Many consider this the safest and most reliable choice for their PS5 Pro.
Predator M.2 SSD 2TB GM7000 with DRAM Cache NVMe 1.4
The Predator GM7000 isn’t just for gaming PCs; it’s a formidable contender for your PS5 Pro too! This 2TB NVMe SSD leverages the PCIe Gen4 standard to deliver impressive sequential read speeds up to 7400 MB/s and write speeds up to 6700 MB/s, putting it right in the sweet spot for your console. What truly sets it apart is its custom-designed heat spreader that efficiently dissipates heat, along with an integrated Power Management Unit (PMU) for energy efficiency. This means cooler operation, longer lifespan, and consistent performance, even during those extended gaming marathons.
Key Features:
– PCIe Gen4 standard with impressive sequential read speeds up to 7400 MB/s and write speeds up to 6700 MB/s.
– Customized heat spreader for enhanced heat dissipation and lower operating temperatures.
– Advanced controller with integrated PMU for optimized energy efficiency.
– Built with 3D NAND TLC and DRAM cache for reliability and endurance.
– Includes free Acronis Clone Software for data transfer and backup (PC use).
– Robust 5-year limited warranty, covering up to 1300TBW.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds that rival top-tier drives.
– Efficient heat dissipation for sustained performance.
– Energy-efficient design helps your console run cooler.
– Strong warranty for peace of mind.
Cons:
– The included Acronis software is primarily for PC users, not directly relevant for PS5 installation.
– While it has a heat spreader, some users might prefer a bulkier, dedicated heatsink for PS5 use.
User Impressions:
Gamers using the Predator GM7000 in their PS5s are generally very pleased with its snappy performance and stable operation. They report quick loading times and smooth gameplay. The included heat spreader is considered effective, and the drive holds up well under load. It’s seen as a strong value proposition for its speed and reliability.
GRAUGEAR Metal Heat Dissipation Cover for PS5 Pro PS5
Now, this isn’t an SSD itself, but it’s a vital accessory if you’re serious about maintaining optimal performance and longevity for your best SSD for PS5 Pro – especially if your chosen SSD comes with an integrated heatsink that needs a little extra help. The GRAUGEAR Metal Heat Dissipation Cover is specifically designed for the PS5 Pro/Slim expansion slot. It works in conjunction with your M.2 SSD’s integrated heatsink, providing an extra layer of cooling performance and preventing overheating. Its unique hollow cellular design increases heat dissipation area, and the dust filter frame is a clever addition to keep your expansion slot clean. It’s the ultimate upgrade for your SSD’s cooling solution within your PS5 Pro console.
Key Features:
– Designed as an M.2 SSD dust cover/heatsink cover for PlayStation 5 Pro/Slim.
– Improves thermal performance for M.2 SSDs, especially those with integrated heatsinks.
– Features a new breathable hollow cellular hole design to increase heat dissipation.
– Unique PVC dust filter greatly reduces dust accumulation.
– Enhances temperature conversion with the PS5 internal cooling fan.
– Package includes tools for installation.
Pros:
– Significantly improves the cooling efficiency of an installed M.2 SSD.
– Protects the SSD expansion slot from dust buildup.
– Specifically designed to fit the PS5 Pro/Slim expansion slot.
– Helps ensure sustained performance and extends SSD lifespan.
Cons:
– Not an SSD; it’s an accessory. You still need to purchase an M.2 SSD separately.
– Only useful if your SSD has an integrated heatsink that fits or if you’re looking for extra cooling on top of an existing one.
User Impressions:
Users who’ve installed the GRAUGEAR cover report lower SSD temperatures, especially during demanding games. They appreciate the thoughtful design, including the dust filter, and how it perfectly fits the PS5 Pro’s internal layout. Many see it as an essential component for high-performance SSDs to maintain their optimal operating conditions within the console.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PS5 Pro’s storage with one of the best SSDs for PS5 Pro is a no-brainer for any serious gamer. Not only will you dramatically cut down on loading screens, but you’ll also free yourself from the constant struggle of managing your game library. Whether you opt for the raw power of the Samsung 990 PRO, the officially licensed ease of the WD_BLACK SN850P, or the robust performance of the Corsair MP600 PRO LPX or Predator GM7000, you’re in for a treat. And don’t forget to consider the GRAUGEAR heat dissipation cover as an excellent complement to ensure your high-speed drive stays cool under pressure.
Invest in a top-tier SSD, and get ready to truly unleash the full potential of your PlayStation 5 Pro! Happy gaming!
FAQ Section
Q1: Do I really need an M.2 SSD for my PS5 Pro, or is the internal storage enough?
A1: While the internal storage is decent, it fills up quickly with modern game sizes. An M.2 SSD significantly expands your game library, reduces load times, and allows you to play games directly from the drive without transferring them, making it a highly recommended upgrade for serious gamers.
Q2: What is the minimum speed requirement for a PS5 Pro SSD?
A2: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. Going higher, up to 7,000 MB/s or more, will provide even better performance and faster load times.
Q3: Is a heatsink absolutely necessary for a PS5 Pro SSD?
A3: Yes, a heatsink is crucial. High-performance NVMe SSDs generate a lot of heat, which can lead to “thermal throttling” (where the drive slows down to prevent overheating). A heatsink ensures the drive maintains its high performance and extends its lifespan within the PS5 Pro’s enclosed space.
Q4: Can I use any M.2 NVMe SSD in my PS5 Pro?
A4: No, not just any M.2 NVMe SSD. It must be a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a minimum read speed of 5,500 MB/s and an integrated heatsink. It also needs to fit within the PS5 Pro’s specific M.2 slot dimensions. Always check the drive’s specifications and compatibility before purchasing.
Q5: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5 Pro? Is it difficult?
A5: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 Pro is relatively straightforward. Sony provides clear instructions, and you’ll typically need a screwdriver. It involves removing a small cover on the console, inserting the SSD, and then reattaching the cover. The PS5 Pro will guide you through the formatting process upon startup.
Q6: What capacity SSD should I get for my PS5 Pro?
A6: The ideal capacity depends on your gaming habits. For most users, 1TB or 2TB offers a great balance between storage space and cost. If you have a massive game library or frequently play very large games, a 4TB SSD might be more suitable.
Q7: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 Pro warranty?
A7: No, installing an officially supported M.2 SSD in the designated expansion slot will not void your PS5 Pro’s warranty. Sony designed the console to allow for this upgrade.