Gaming on a PS5 Pro promises an incredible experience: stunning graphics, faster load times, and an expansive library of games. But with those massive game files, you’ll quickly realize that your console’s built-in storage might not be enough. That’s where a high-performance Solid State Drive (SSD) comes in. Upgrading your storage is one of the most impactful ways to enhance your PS5 Pro, ensuring smoother gameplay and keeping all your favorite titles ready to go. We’re here to help you find the Crucial best SSD for PS5 Pro, whether you’re looking for lightning-fast internal expansion or a robust external solution for your ever-growing digital library.
Why You Need an SSD Upgrade for Your PS5 Pro
Your PS5 Pro is a powerhouse, but its performance can only truly shine with ample and fast storage. Here’s why an SSD upgrade isn’t just a luxury, it’s pretty much a necessity:
- Blazing Fast Load Times: Say goodbye to long loading screens! A top-tier SSD drastically cuts down the time it takes to load games, levels, and assets, getting you into the action quicker.
- More Games, No Compromise: Modern games are huge. With an expanded SSD, you won’t have to constantly delete games to make space for new ones. Keep your entire library at your fingertips.
- Optimized Performance: While external SSDs are great for storing PS4 games or archiving PS5 titles, an internal NVMe SSD directly impacts how quickly your PS5 Pro can access game data, leading to smoother texture streaming and overall better in-game performance.
Understanding SSD Types: Internal vs. External for PS5 Pro
When we talk about SSDs for your PS5 Pro, there are two main categories, each with distinct uses:
- Internal M.2 NVMe SSDs: These are the game-changers for PS5 Pro. Installed directly inside your console, they meet Sony’s demanding speed requirements (PCIe Gen4, at least 5500MB/s read speed) and allow you to play PS5 games directly from them. They’re essential for true storage expansion and performance.
- External Portable SSDs: These drives connect via USB and are fantastic for storing your PS4 game library (which can often be played directly from the external drive) or archiving PS5 games. While you can’t play PS5 titles directly from an external drive at native speeds, they’re perfect for freeing up internal space and for quick file transfers. Think of them as your flexible digital backpack.
Now, let’s dive into our top picks, featuring both internal powerhouses and versatile external options!
1. Crucial X9 Pro 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
This sleek and rugged external SSD is a fantastic sidekick for any PS5 Pro owner who needs reliable, portable storage. While you won’t be playing PS5 games directly from it, the Crucial X9 Pro excels at storing your vast PS4 game library, backing up game captures, or archiving your PS5 titles to free up your console’s internal space. Its professional-grade speeds ensure quick transfers, making it a breeze to manage your digital assets.
- Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, 7.5 ft drop resistance
- Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A
- Security: SSD password protection
- Bonus Software: 3 months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image
- Pros:
- Excellent for storing PS4 games, media, and archiving PS5 titles
- Extremely durable and portable for on-the-go use
- Wide device compatibility via USB-C and USB-A
- Good transfer speeds for an external drive
- Cons:
- Not suitable for playing PS5 games directly
- Speeds are lower than internal M.2 NVMe options
- User Impressions: Users love the X9 Pro for its compact size, robust build quality, and ease of use across multiple devices. Many find it invaluable for managing large media files and expanding their PS4 game library without relying solely on cloud storage.
See it on Amazon here
2. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
If you’ve got an even bigger game collection or a mountain of media files, the 4TB version of the Crucial X9 Pro is your best bet. Offering double the storage of its 2TB sibling, this portable powerhouse gives you immense room to breathe without sacrificing speed or durability. It shares all the fantastic features that make the X9 Pro series a go-to for professionals and gamers alike, ensuring your data is safe and accessible wherever you are.
- Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds
- Massive 4TB Capacity: Store high-resolution photos, 4K/8K videos, and extensive game libraries
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, 7.5 ft drop resistance
- Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A
- Security: SSD password protection
- Bonus Software: 3 months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image
- Pros:
- Huge 4TB capacity for extensive storage needs
- Extremely durable and portable design
- Reliable data transfer speeds for an external unit
- Versatile compatibility with various devices
- Cons:
- Not designed for direct PS5 game playback
- Read/write speeds are standard for portable SSDs, not internal NVMe speeds
- User Impressions: Customers consistently praise the 4TB X9 Pro for its generous storage space and ruggedness. It’s often recommended for users who need a vast, reliable backup solution or want to carry a massive media library on the go.
See it on Amazon here
3. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
Alright, now we’re talking serious internal expansion for your PS5 Pro! The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD is a beast, engineered specifically to meet and exceed the demanding requirements of next-gen gaming consoles like the PS5. With its blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds and an integrated heatsink, this drive ensures optimal performance without thermal throttling, giving you the fastest load times and smoothest gameplay imaginable. It’s truly a crucial best SSD for PS5 Pro if you’re looking for an internal upgrade that won’t let you down.
- Key Features:
- Blazing Speed: Up to 7450/6900 MB/s read/write speeds, nearing PCIe 4.0 maximum
- Integrated Heatsink: Optimized for improved temperature control, crucial for PS5
- PS5 Compatible: Ultra-slim design fits PlayStation 5 M.2 slot
- High Performance: Over 55% improvement in random performance vs. 980 PRO
- Capacities: Available from 1TB to 4TB (this review is for 2TB)
- Pros:
- Exceptional speeds for playing PS5 games directly
- Pre-installed heatsink simplifies installation and ensures optimal thermal management
- Top-tier performance from a leading flash memory brand
- Significantly reduces game loading times
- Cons:
- Premium price point
- Installation requires opening the PS5 Pro (though it’s straightforward)
- User Impressions: Gamers universally rave about the 990 PRO’s incredible speed and seamless integration with the PS5. The built-in heatsink is a major plus, removing any guesswork about thermal management. It’s often cited as the gold standard for PS5 SSD upgrades.
See it on Amazon here
4. Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 2100MB/s Read
Stepping up from the X9 Pro, the Crucial X10 Pro offers even more blistering speeds for an external drive. If you’re a content creator or a gamer who frequently transfers massive files, this SSD is a game-changer. With read speeds up to 2100MB/s, you’ll move photos, 4K/8K videos, and archived game files in a flash. It combines this incredible performance with the same rugged durability and broad compatibility as the X9 Pro, making it a premium choice for high-speed portable storage.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read and 2,000MB/s write speeds
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, 7.5 ft drop resistance
- Broad Compatibility: Connects with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A
- Massive Storage: Compact 2TB capacity
- Bonus Software: 3 months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image
- Pros:
- Exceptionally fast transfer speeds for an external SSD
- Highly durable and weather-resistant design
- Great for professional content creators and high-volume data movers
- Wide compatibility with modern devices
- Cons:
- Still not for playing PS5 games directly
- Higher price than the X9 Pro
- User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the X10 Pro’s incredible speed, noting how quickly it handles large file transfers. Its robust build is also a frequent highlight, making it a reliable choice for those who need performance and portability.
See it on Amazon here
5. Crucial T500 2TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD with Heatsink
Here’s another powerhouse internal option that’s truly a Crucial best SSD for PS5 Pro if you prioritize gaming performance. The Crucial T500 is specifically designed for gamers, boasting lightning-fast Gen4 NVMe speeds that will make your PS5 Pro sing. With its integrated heatsink, you can drop this directly into your console and enjoy significantly faster game loading, quicker texture renders, and even less CPU utilization thanks to technologies like Microsoft DirectStorage. It’s a fantastic blend of speed, reliability, and value.
- Key Features:
- Lightning Speeds: Sequential reads/writes up to 7,400/7,000MB/s, random read/writes up to 1.18M/1.44M IOPs
- PS5 Ready: Heatsink version is easy to install in PlayStation 5
- Ultimate Gaming: Load games up to 16% faster and get faster texture renders and less CPU utilization with Microsoft DirectStorage
- Content Creation: Up to 42% faster performance in content creation apps
- Bonus: One month of Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan
- Pros:
- Outstanding speeds that meet/exceed PS5 Pro requirements
- Pre-attached heatsink for easy installation and thermal management
- Optimized for gaming with faster load times and better performance
- Strong value proposition for its performance tier
- Cons:
- Still requires opening the console for installation
- Software bonus (Adobe) might not be relevant for all gamers
- User Impressions: Gamers are thrilled with the T500’s performance, particularly its ability to dramatically cut down game loading times on their PS5 consoles. The easy installation of the heatsink version is frequently mentioned as a huge benefit, making it a highly recommended upgrade.
See it on Amazon here
Choosing the Right SSD for Your PS5 Pro
When picking out your ideal SSD, keep these factors in mind:
- Internal (M.2 NVMe) vs. External: Decide if you need to play PS5 games directly from the drive (internal) or primarily store games/media and play PS4 titles (external).
- Speed: For internal PS5 Pro SSDs, look for PCIe Gen4 with at least 5500MB/s read speeds. Faster is always better! External drives typically range from 500MB/s to 2000MB/s.
- Heatsink: For internal M.2 NVMe SSDs, a heatsink is non-negotiable for consistent performance and to prevent thermal throttling. Many top-tier drives come with one pre-installed.
- Capacity: How many games do you plan to store? 1TB is a good starting point, but 2TB or even 4TB offers much more flexibility for future-proofing your game library.
- Durability (for External): If you’re often on the go, look for external SSDs with IP ratings for water/dust resistance and drop protection.
FAQ: All Your PS5 Pro SSD Questions Answered
Q: What type of SSD does the PS5 Pro need for internal expansion?
A: The PS5 Pro, like the standard PS5, requires an M.2 NVMe SSD that supports PCIe Gen4. It must have a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s, and a heatsink is absolutely crucial for proper thermal management.
Q: Can I use an external SSD to play PS5 Pro games directly?
A: No, you cannot directly play PS5 Pro games from an external USB SSD. PS5 games need to be installed on the console’s internal storage or a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD installed in the expansion slot to leverage their full performance capabilities. External SSDs are excellent for storing PS4 games (which can often be played directly from the external drive) or archiving PS5 games to free up internal space.
Q: Is a heatsink really necessary for an internal PS5 Pro SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely! An integrated heatsink or a separately purchased one is vital. Without adequate cooling, high-speed NVMe SSDs can overheat, leading to performance throttling and potentially damaging the drive over time. Most recommended internal SSDs for PS5 Pro come with one pre-installed.
Q: How much SSD storage do I really need for my PS5 Pro?
A: This depends on your gaming habits. Given the massive file sizes of modern PS5 games (often 50GB-150GB+), a 1TB SSD is a decent starting point. However, a 2TB or even 4TB SSD will give you significantly more breathing room, allowing you to install many more games without constantly juggling files.
Q: Is installing an SSD in the PS5 Pro difficult?
A: Based on the standard PS5, installing an M.2 NVMe SSD is a relatively straightforward process. Sony provides clear instructions, and it typically involves removing a console side panel, unscrewing a cover, inserting the SSD, and then reassembling. No specialized tools are usually required beyond a Phillips head screwdriver.
Q: What’s the main difference between the Crucial X9 Pro/X10 Pro and the Samsung 990 PRO/Crucial T500?
A: The Crucial X9 Pro and X10 Pro are external portable SSDs, best for storing data, archiving PS5 games, or playing PS4 games. The Samsung 990 PRO and Crucial T500 are internal M.2 NVMe SSDs with heatsinks, specifically designed for direct installation into your PS5 Pro, allowing you to play PS5 games at their optimal speeds and expand your console’s core storage.
Q: Can I use my old PS4 external hard drive with the PS5 Pro?
A: Yes, you can typically connect your existing PS4 external hard drive or SSD to the PS5 Pro. This allows you to transfer your PS4 game library to the new console and often play those PS4 games directly from the external drive.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PS5 Pro’s storage with a high-quality SSD isn’t just about getting more space; it’s about unlocking the console’s full potential. Whether you opt for an ultra-fast internal M.2 NVMe drive like the Samsung 990 PRO or Crucial T500 for seamless PS5 game performance, or a robust external solution like the Crucial X9 Pro or X10 Pro for flexible storage and archiving, you’re making a smart investment. The Crucial best SSD for PS5 Pro for you will ultimately depend on your specific needs, but with our top picks, you’re sure to find a drive that elevates your gaming experience. Don’t let storage limitations hold you back – game on!