Are you tired of constantly deleting games to make space on your PlayStation 5? Do you wish for even faster loading times to jump right into the action? Upgrading your PS5’s storage with an M.2 SSD is the ultimate game-changer, and finding the best M.2 SSD with heatsink for PS5 is crucial for peak performance and longevity.
The PS5 requires a high-speed NVMe PCIe Gen4 M.2 SSD with a built-in heatsink or one that you can attach. Why the heatsink? These lightning-fast drives generate heat, and a heatsink ensures they stay cool, preventing performance throttling and keeping your gaming experience smooth and uninterrupted. Don’t worry if all this tech talk sounds a bit daunting – we’ve done the heavy lifting for you!
We’ve rounded up seven of the top M.2 SSDs specifically chosen for their compatibility, speed, and integrated cooling solutions, making them perfect for your PlayStation 5. Let’s dive in and find the ideal storage upgrade to supercharge your console!
1. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive with Heatsink
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a true powerhouse, built for gamers who demand nothing but the best. This drive isn’t just fast; it’s ridiculously fast, boasting read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s. What makes it stand out is its integrated heatsink, which is essential for maintaining those incredible speeds during intense gaming marathons on your PS5. With capacities up to 8TB, you can download all the latest blockbusters without worrying about space. The SN850X also comes with advanced features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management, ensuring your games run smoothly and your drive stays cool under pressure.
Key Features:
– Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s read, significantly reducing load times.
– Optional heatsink version available for all capacities to maintain peak performance.
– Built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND for robust and reliable storage.
– WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for drive health monitoring and RGB customization (heatsink versions).
– Future-forward features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
Pros:
– Exceptional speed, ideal for next-gen gaming.
– Effective integrated heatsink prevents thermal throttling.
– High capacities available to store a massive game library.
– Reputable brand with a focus on gaming performance.
Cons:
– WD_BLACK Dashboard features are Windows-only, not directly applicable to PS5 use.
– Premium pricing compared to some alternatives.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the SN850X for its blazing speeds and robust performance, noting a significant improvement in game loading times on both PC and PS5. Many appreciate the peace of mind offered by the included heatsink, reporting no thermal issues even after hours of continuous play. It’s often highlighted as a top-tier choice for serious gamers.
2. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2 NVMe
When it comes to speed and reliability, Samsung is a household name in the SSD market, and their 990 PRO with Heatsink is no exception. This drive is a performance beast, pushing near the maximum limits of PCIe 4.0 with staggering read/write speeds of up to 7450/6900 MB/s. What truly sets it apart for PS5 users is its ultra-slim integrated heatsink, specifically designed to dissipate heat effectively within the console’s M.2 slot, preventing any performance hiccups during your gaming sessions. It’s truly “Made w/ PS5 in mind,” making it a perfect best M.2 SSD with heatsink for PS5 contender.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
– Integrated heatsink designed for optimal temperature control and PS5 compatibility.
– Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
– Available in large capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
– Trusted performance from the world’s #1 Flash Memory Brand.
Pros:
– Extremely high speeds for minimal load times.
– Heatsink perfectly fits the PS5’s M.2 slot and ensures stable performance.
– Excellent for heavy computing, video editing, and data analysis in addition to gaming.
– Samsung’s reputation for quality and durability.
Cons:
– It’s a premium product, so expect a higher price point.
– May be overkill for casual users who don’t need absolute top-tier speeds.
User Impressions:
Gamers and tech enthusiasts alike rave about the 990 PRO’s unparalleled speed and its seamless integration with the PS5. Users frequently report a noticeable difference in game loading and asset streaming. The slim heatsink design gets specific mention for fitting perfectly in the PS5, making installation a breeze and ensuring cool operation.
3. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink offers a compelling balance of high performance and impressive efficiency, making it an excellent choice for your PS5 upgrade. This SSD delivers exceptional speeds up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write, effectively doubling the performance of PCIe Gen 3 SSDs. Its standout feature is its impressive power efficiency – it consumes up to 40% less power than other DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs, which is great for the longevity and thermal management inside your console. Designed with a heatsink, it ensures your drive stays cool and performs optimally, all while being fully compatible with the PlayStation 5.
Key Features:
– Exceptional read/write speeds up to 7400MB/s and 6500MB/s.
– Integrated heatsink for efficient cooling and sustained performance.
– Up to 40% less power consumption than comparable PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfers.
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 and backed by a five-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– High speeds rivaling top-tier drives.
– Excellent power efficiency helps with thermal management.
– Included heatsink is PS5 compatible.
– Competitive pricing for its performance tier.
Cons:
– While fast, its write speed is slightly lower than some premium competitors.
– Less established as a PS5 specific drive compared to WD_BLACK or Samsung.
User Impressions:
Customers are generally very pleased with the Lexar NM790, often highlighting its great value for money given its high performance. PS5 users confirm easy installation and robust performance, with games loading quickly and running smoothly. The low power consumption is also appreciated by those mindful of overall system efficiency.
4. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PS5
If you want absolute peace of mind regarding compatibility, the WD_BLACK SN850P is the answer. This is an officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, meaning it’s been tested and approved by PlayStation themselves. With read speeds up to 7,300MB/s, it ensures seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times, directly from the drive. The SN850P features a brand-new, optimized heatsink specifically designed for the PS5, making installation worry-free and ensuring optimal cooling. Plus, it even comes with a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe, adding extra value to your upgrade.
Key Features:
– Officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles, ensuring 100% compatibility.
– Optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5’s M.2 slot for easy, worry-free installation.
– Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for seamless gameplay and short load times.
– Capacities up to 4TB, allowing storage for up to 100 games (4TB model).
– Play directly from the drive without needing to transfer games.
– Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
Pros:
– Guaranteed PS5 compatibility and performance.
– Heatsink perfectly designed for PS5 installation.
– Excellent speeds for next-gen gaming.
– Added bonus of PlayStation Plus trial.
Cons:
– Might come at a slightly higher premium due to the official licensing.
– Some users might already have PlayStation Plus, making the trial redundant.
User Impressions:
The “Officially Licensed” stamp gives many PS5 owners immense confidence, and user reviews reflect this. Installation is consistently described as straightforward and quick. Performance is top-notch, with users reporting identical or even slightly faster loading times than the PS5’s internal storage. The custom-fit heatsink is also a big plus.
5. M.2 Heatsink Cooler 2280 SSD Double-Sided Heat Sink with Thermal Pad
This isn’t a full SSD, but a standalone heatsink solution, perfect if you already have a compatible M.2 NVMe 2280 SSD without a heatsink, or if you prefer a different cooling solution. This double-sided heatsink is made from aluminum alloy with an anodic oxidation surface treatment, designed to provide 10°C – 20°C cooling effect, preventing thermal throttling on your M.2 SSD. It’s specifically designed to fit well in the PS5’s M.2 slot, as well as desktop PC M.2 slots, and comes with thermal pads for excellent conductivity. It’s an essential accessory for turning a bare drive into the best M.2 SSD with heatsink for PS5.
Key Features:
– Designed for desktop PC/PS5, compatible with single-sided M.2 2280 SSDs.
– Main body made of aluminum alloy with anodic oxidation surface treatment for efficient heat dissipation.
– Includes high thermal conductivity thermal pads.
– Provides 10°C – 20°C cooling effect to prevent overheating and throttling.
– Easy to install with a double-sided clip design suitable for various SSD heights.
Pros:
– Cost-effective solution if you already own a bare M.2 SSD.
– Effective cooling, significantly reducing SSD temperatures.
– Slim design fits perfectly in the PS5 M.2 slot.
– Easy to install with clear instructions.
Cons:
– Requires purchasing an M.2 SSD separately.
– Not a plug-and-play solution; needs manual assembly.
User Impressions:
Users who opted for this heatsink to pair with their bare SSDs are generally very satisfied. They report significant temperature drops, especially during extended gaming sessions. The installation process is described as simple, and the overall quality of the heatsink is highly rated for its effectiveness and compact design, fitting well within the PS5.
6. Fikwot FX910 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD for PS5 & PC, PCIe Gen4
The Fikwot FX910 offers a high-performance, cost-effective solution for expanding your PS5’s storage. This M.2 NVMe SSD boasts ultra-fast speeds up to 7300MB/s read and 6200MB/s write via PCIe 4.0, ensuring quick boot-ups and smooth multitasking. It comes with a built-in graphite heatsink, which efficiently keeps the SSD cool and stable even under heavy loads, maintaining peak performance during demanding gaming tasks. With wide compatibility for both PS5 and desktop PCs and capacities up to 4TB, it’s a versatile choice for professional gamers and high-performance users looking for a reliable and affordable best M.2 SSD with heatsink for PS5.
Key Features:
– Extreme performance with speeds up to 7300MB/s read and 6200MB/s write.
– Built-in graphite heatsink for advanced cooling and stability.
– Wide compatibility with PS5 and desktop PCs.
– Available in large capacities up to 4TB.
– Easy plug-and-play installation with no driver required.
– Backed by a 5-year guarantee and 24/7 support.
Pros:
– Excellent speed-to-price ratio.
– Integrated heatsink effectively manages thermals.
– Simple installation process.
– Good customer support and warranty.
Cons:
– Fikwot is a lesser-known brand compared to industry giants.
– Write speeds are slightly lower than top-tier competitors like Samsung or WD_BLACK.
User Impressions:
Many users were pleasantly surprised by the Fikwot FX910’s performance, given its competitive price point. PS5 owners confirm it works flawlessly, with noticeable improvements in loading times. The heatsink is reported to do its job well, keeping the drive cool. Its ease of installation is a frequently mentioned positive.
7. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC NAND
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 SSD aims to deliver lightning-fast performance and ample storage for your PS5, all with a focus on cooling and reliability. Utilizing cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, it boasts impressive read/write speeds of up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s, drastically reducing game delays and ensuring super-fast file transfers. This drive comes with a built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink, designed to strongly cool down the chip by 10 degrees during intense use, preventing slowdowns. What’s more, the package often includes an additional heatsink (not installed), screws, and a screwdriver, making installation easier. It’s rigorously tested for stability and longevity, ensuring it’s ready for your next game.
Key Features:
– NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 high-speed interface with up to 7450MB/s read and 6500MB/s write.
– Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink for strong cooling performance.
– Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, and PC, featuring an M.2 2280 form factor.
– Large storage capacity of up to 2TB, holding approximately 50 games.
– Utilizes high-quality 3D NAND flash memory and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
– Rigorously tested for stability and comes with an additional heatsink (uninstalled) and tools.
Pros:
– Excellent speeds comparable to top-tier drives.
– Dual cooling solution (built-in graphene + included additional heatsink).
– Comes with installation tools, a thoughtful addition.
– Rigorous testing promises reliability and longevity.
Cons:
– “MOVE SPEED” is a newer/lesser-known brand.
– The primary heatsink is graphene, which is effective but sometimes users prefer more robust aluminum block heatsinks.
User Impressions:
Users are generally impressed by the MOVE SPEED HB7450’s raw performance, noting its speed closely matches the specifications. Many appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of tools and the extra heatsink. PS5 owners confirm smooth operation and improved loading times, with the cooling system effectively keeping temperatures in check even during demanding games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD with a heatsink for my PS5?
A1: High-speed M.2 NVMe SSDs generate a significant amount of heat during operation. A heatsink is crucial for dissipating this heat, preventing the drive from overheating and “throttling” (reducing its performance) to protect itself. For the PS5, a heatsink ensures your drive maintains its top speeds for smoother gaming and faster load times, while also protecting the longevity of your SSD.
Q2: What are the minimum requirements for a PS5-compatible M.2 SSD?
A2: Sony specifies the following minimum requirements:
* Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD
* Capacity: 250 GB – 8 TB
* Sequential Read Speed: 5,500 MB/s or faster recommended
* Module Width: 22mm (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110)
* Socket Type: Socket 3 (Key M)
* Total size including heatsink: Max 110mm (L) x 25mm (W) x 11.25mm (H)
Q3: Can I use any M.2 SSD with a heatsink, or does it have to be specifically for PS5?
A3: While any M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD with a read speed of 5500MB/s or higher and a suitable heatsink should work, officially licensed or “PS5 compatible” drives often come with heatsinks perfectly sized for the PS5’s expansion slot, making installation easier and guaranteeing compatibility. Always check the SSD’s dimensions, including the heatsink, to ensure it fits the PS5’s M.2 slot.
Q4: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A4: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is relatively straightforward:
1. Turn off your PS5 completely and unplug all cables.
2. Place the PS5 on its side, with the disc drive (if applicable) facing up.
3. Remove the bottom cover of the PS5.
4. Unscrew the M.2 expansion slot cover and remove it.
5. Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle, then push it down until it’s flat.
6. Secure the SSD with the provided screw (or the one from your PS5).
7. Replace the expansion slot cover and the PS5’s bottom cover.
8. Power on your PS5; it will prompt you to format the new SSD.
Q5: Will adding an M.2 SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A5: No, installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 will not void its warranty, as Sony officially supports M.2 SSD expansion. Just make sure to follow the official installation guide provided by Sony to avoid any accidental damage during the process.
Q6: Can I play PS5 games directly from the M.2 SSD, or do I need to transfer them to the console’s internal storage first?
A6: Yes, once installed and formatted, you can download, install, and play PS5 games directly from the M.2 SSD. You can also transfer games between the console’s internal storage and the M.2 SSD freely. This is a major advantage, freeing up your console’s primary drive for system files and other uses.
Q7: Is a 1TB SSD enough, or should I get a 2TB (or larger) for my PS5?
A7: This depends on your gaming habits. A 1TB SSD provides significant additional storage, often enough for 15-25 large PS5 games. However, with game sizes constantly increasing, a 2TB or larger SSD offers more future-proofing and means you’ll spend less time managing your game library. For serious gamers with a large collection, 2TB is highly recommended as the best M.2 SSD with heatsink for PS5 in terms of value and capacity.