If you’re a PlayStation 5 owner, you’ve probably hit that moment where your internal storage just isn’t cutting it anymore. With modern games clocking in at 100GB+, that precious 825GB (or roughly 667GB usable) space fills up faster than you can say “Spider-Man: Miles Morales.” The good news? You can easily expand your PS5’s storage with a high-performance M.2 NVMe SSD. And when it comes to reliable, blazing-fast drives perfect for your console, Sabrent has consistently proven to be a top contender.
But which Sabrent drive is the Sabrent best m.2 SSD for PS5? It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer, as different capacities and specific features might appeal to different gamers. We’ve dug deep to bring you a comprehensive look at the best Sabrent M.2 SSD options, along with an essential heatsink, to help you make an informed decision and get your game library thriving.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect upgrade for your PlayStation 5!
Understanding PS5 SSD Requirements
Before we jump into the reviews, remember that Sony has specific requirements for PS5 compatible M.2 SSDs:
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD
- Capacity: 250GB – 8TB
- Sequential Read Speed: 5,500 MB/s or faster recommended
- Form Factor: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110
- Heatsink: Essential for sustained performance and preventing thermal throttling. The combined size of the SSD and heatsink must fit within the PS5’s expansion slot.
Luckily, Sabrent’s Rocket series checks all these boxes, making them excellent choices for a PS5 storage upgrade.
The Top Sabrent M.2 SSDs for PS5
SABRENT 2TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2
This 2TB powerhouse from Sabrent is an absolute dream for serious gamers and content creators alike. The Rocket 4 Plus isn’t just about expansion; it’s about elevating your entire PS5 experience. With its phenomenal read and write speeds, you’ll notice dramatically shorter loading times and seamless gameplay, even for the most demanding titles. It’s truly a fantastic option if you’re looking for the Sabrent best m.2 SSD for PS5 when it comes to raw, unadulterated speed and ample space.
Key Features:
– Blazing-Fast Performance: Up to 7100MB/s read and 6600MB/s write speeds with PCIe Gen4.
– Next-Gen NVMe Interface: Built on NVMe 1.4 and PCIe Gen4 x4 for maximum throughput and low latency.
– High-Endurance TLC NAND: Engineered with premium 3D TLC NAND for long-lasting performance and stability.
– Advanced Thermal Management: Requires heatsink for optimal Gen4 performance; designed for compatibility with onboard motherboard heatsinks or PS5 slot.
– Easy Cloning & Sector Control: Includes Acronis True Image for SABRENT; new utility supports custom 512e/4K formatting.
Pros:
– Exceptional read/write speeds, exceeding PS5’s requirements.
– Ample 2TB capacity for a large game library.
– High-quality components ensure durability and consistent performance.
– Excellent for intensive gaming and rapid data transfers.
Cons:
– Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use (not included).
– Might be overkill for casual users who don’t need the absolute fastest speeds.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the Rocket 4 Plus for its incredible speed and reliability. Many PS5 owners report a noticeable improvement in game loading times and overall system responsiveness. The general consensus is that it’s a premium drive that delivers on its promises, though the additional heatsink purchase is a common point of note.
SABRENT Rocket 4 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
If you’re looking for a solid upgrade without breaking the bank for maximum capacity, the Sabrent Rocket 4 1TB is a fantastic choice. This drive delivers impressive PCIe Gen4 speeds that will significantly boost your PS5’s performance, ensuring swift game loading and smooth transitions. Its single-sided design makes it incredibly versatile, fitting snugly into the PS5’s expansion slot without any fuss. It’s an ideal entry point for anyone wanting a reliable Sabrent best m.2 SSD for PS5 without committing to a larger, more expensive drive right away.
Key Features:
– Blazing Gen4 Speed: Experience PCIe 4.0 NVMe performance with up to 7450MB/s read and 6100MB/s write speeds.
– High IOPS, Efficient Design: Delivers up to 850K/800K random IOPS while maintaining low heat and power draw.
– Broad System Compatibility: Single-sided M.2 2280 form factor ensures wide compatibility across various systems, including PS5.
– Made for Pros and Gamers: Provides fast, responsive storage ideal for high-performance systems.
– Trusted Sabrent Support: Engineered with premium hardware and supports major operating systems.
Pros:
– Excellent value for money for a Gen4 drive.
– Very fast read/write speeds that comfortably exceed PS5 requirements.
– Single-sided design ensures hassle-free installation in the PS5’s tight slot.
– High IOPS contributes to a very responsive gaming experience.
Cons:
– 1TB might still fill up quickly for avid gamers with large libraries.
– Heatsink not included (required for PS5).
User Impressions:
Customers love the balance of performance and price offered by the Rocket 4 1TB. PS5 users particularly appreciate its easy fit and the dramatic reduction in loading screens. It’s often highlighted as a smart, cost-effective storage solution for their PlayStation 5, delivering noticeable speed improvements.
SABRENT Rocket 4 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
Stepping up from the 1TB model, the Sabrent Rocket 4 2TB strikes a perfect balance between ample storage and top-tier performance. This drive gives you plenty of room for dozens of your favorite AAA titles while delivering incredible PCIe 4.0 speeds that will make game loading a thing of the past. It’s a stellar choice for gamers who want significant expansion without needing the absolute largest capacity, ensuring a smooth and responsive PS5 gaming experience every time.
Key Features:
– Next-Gen Gen4 Performance: Reach up to 7450MB/s read and 6400MB/s write speeds with PCIe 4.0 NVMe.
– High IOPS, Low Heat: Get up to 1000K/950K random IOPS with minimal thermal output.
– Universal Compatibility: Compatible with desktops, laptops, and PS5; single-sided M.2 2280 design fits compact systems.
– Power for Pros and Gamers: Delivers fast, reliable storage for intensive applications.
– Sabrent Quality and Support: Built with premium components and broad OS support.
Pros:
– Generous 2TB capacity handles substantial game libraries.
– Blazing-fast read/write speeds, perfect for demanding PS5 titles.
– High IOPS ensures quick responsiveness and smooth multitasking.
– Single-sided design makes it ideal for PS5’s specific slot.
Cons:
– Still requires a separate heatsink for optimal PS5 performance.
– Higher price point than the 1TB variant.
User Impressions:
Many users consider the Rocket 4 2TB the sweet spot for PS5 expansion, praising its combination of speed and storage. They report flawless performance, with games running directly from the drive just as smoothly, if not faster, than from the internal storage. It’s seen as a reliable and high-performing upgrade.
SABRENT M.2 NVMe PS5 heatsink (SB-PSHS)
While not an SSD itself, the Sabrent M.2 NVMe PS5 heatsink is an absolutely crucial companion for any M.2 SSD installed in your PlayStation 5. Sony’s design demands an efficient heatsink, and Sabrent has engineered a brilliant solution that not only dissipates heat effectively but also replaces the console’s native cover for superior airflow. This heatsink is a game-changer for keeping your SSD cool under pressure, ensuring sustained top-tier performance and preventing thermal throttling. It’s the perfect partner for any Sabrent best m.2 SSD for PS5 to unlock its full potential.
Key Features:
– DESIGNED FOR THE PS5 CONSOLE: Engineered to fit perfectly and easily into the PS5 console’s SSD expansion slot.
– REVOLUTIONARY COOLING: Made from High-Quality CNC’d aluminum, specifically designed to maximize cooling performance.
– UPGRADE YOUR CONSOLE!: Replaces the native PS5 console cover, allowing for better cooling using the native fan.
– INDUSTRIAL QUALITY: Uses Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” ensuring even pressure for efficient and consistent heat transfer.
– CONVENIENCE: Comes with an installation guide, screws, and thermal tape for easy installation.
Pros:
– Custom-designed for perfect fit and superior cooling within the PS5.
– Replaces the PS5’s cover for enhanced airflow and heat dissipation.
– “Sandwich Design” ensures even contact and efficient heat transfer.
– Includes all necessary installation accessories for a straightforward setup.
Cons:
– An additional purchase, not bundled with SSDs.
– Requires opening the PS5 (though it’s a simple process).
User Impressions:
PS5 owners rave about this heatsink’s effectiveness and ease of installation. Many note that their SSDs run significantly cooler, maintaining peak performance without any signs of slowdown. It’s widely recommended as the go-to heatsink for anyone upgrading their PS5 storage, especially when paired with a Sabrent SSD.
SABRENT Rocket 4 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
For the ultimate game collector or professional who needs an immense amount of high-speed storage, the Sabrent Rocket 4 4TB is the king of the hill. Imagine having practically your entire digital game library, plus room for future releases and multimedia projects, all on one lightning-fast drive. With its massive capacity and top-tier PCIe Gen4 speeds, this drive ensures you’ll rarely, if ever, have to delete a game again. It’s arguably the Sabrent best m.2 SSD for PS5 if raw capacity combined with elite performance is your absolute priority.
Key Features:
– Massive Gen4 Performance: Unlock up to 7450MB/s read and 6400MB/s write speeds with PCIe 4.0 NVMe.
– Built for Speed and Stability: Achieve up to 1000K/950K random IOPS with consistent low-heat output.
– Broad Compatibility: Slim, single-sided M.2 2280 design works flawlessly in desktops, laptops, and PS5 systems.
– For Demanding Users: Ideal for gamers, media editors, engineers, and power users needing high capacity and top-tier performance.
– Sabrent Reliability & Support: Made with premium hardware and OS compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Pros:
– Incredible 4TB capacity to store a massive game collection and more.
– Elite-level read/write speeds ensure zero compromise on performance.
– High IOPS for butter-smooth system responsiveness.
– Single-sided design helps with PS5 compatibility and heat management (when paired with a heatsink).
Cons:
– Premium price tag due to its enormous capacity.
– Still requires a separate heatsink for PS5 operation.
User Impressions:
Users with huge game libraries or those doing extensive creative work on PC and then transferring to PS5 absolutely adore the 4TB Rocket 4. They highlight its unmatched capacity and consistent, high-speed performance, noting that it eliminates any storage anxiety. It’s seen as a long-term investment that pays off in convenience and speed.
FAQ: All Your Sabrent PS5 SSD Questions Answered
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5?
A1: The PS5’s internal storage (around 667GB usable) fills up very quickly with modern games. An M.2 SSD allows you to expand your game library significantly, enabling you to download and play more games directly from the expanded storage without sacrificing performance.
Q2: Is a heatsink really necessary for an M.2 SSD in the PS5?
A2: Yes, absolutely! Sony explicitly states that a heatsink is required. High-performance Gen4 NVMe SSDs generate a lot of heat, especially during prolonged gaming sessions. A heatsink is crucial to dissipate this heat, prevent thermal throttling, and ensure your SSD maintains optimal performance and longevity.
Q3: Are Sabrent SSDs compatible with the PS5’s requirements?
A3: Yes, the Sabrent Rocket 4 and Rocket 4 Plus series are designed to meet or exceed Sony’s requirements for PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSDs, offering the recommended read speeds and appropriate form factors.
Q4: How do I install a Sabrent M.2 SSD into my PS5?
A4: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is a straightforward process. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver, and you’ll carefully remove the PS5’s side cover, then the expansion slot cover. Insert the SSD into the slot, secure it, attach the heatsink (if it’s a separate component like Sabrent’s dedicated PS5 heatsink), and then replace the covers. Sony provides a detailed guide on their website, and Sabrent’s heatsink comes with instructions.
Q5: Will games load faster from a Sabrent M.2 SSD than the PS5’s internal storage?
A5: In many cases, yes! Sabrent’s Rocket 4 and Rocket 4 Plus series boast read speeds of 7000MB/s+, which is faster than the PS5’s internal drive’s raw speed of 5500MB/s (though the internal drive benefits from tight integration). You will typically experience extremely fast loading times, often comparable to, or even faster than, the internal storage.
Q6: Can I transfer my PS5 games directly to the new Sabrent SSD?
A6: Yes, once your new Sabrent SSD is installed and formatted by the PS5, you can easily move existing PS5 games from your console’s internal storage to the new M.2 SSD via the PS5’s storage settings. New games can also be downloaded directly to the expanded storage.
Q7: Is it worth paying more for a 4TB Sabrent SSD over a 1TB or 2TB?
A7: This depends entirely on your gaming habits. If you have a massive digital game library, prefer to keep many titles installed simultaneously, or download a lot of large AAA games, a 4TB drive offers unparalleled convenience. For most users, 1TB or 2TB will be sufficient, but the 4TB option future-proofs your storage for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your PlayStation 5’s storage with a high-quality M.2 SSD is one of the best investments you can make for your gaming experience. Sabrent’s Rocket series consistently delivers the performance, reliability, and speed that PS5 gamers demand. Whether you opt for the immense capacity of the 4TB Rocket 4 or the blazing speeds of the 2TB Rocket 4 Plus, pairing it with Sabrent’s custom PS5 heatsink will ensure your system runs smoothly for countless hours of gaming.
No matter which Sabrent drive you choose, you’re getting a top-tier storage solution that will transform your PS5 into an even more formidable gaming machine. Happy gaming!