Is your PlayStation 5 storage bursting at the seams? You’re not alone! With massive game installs and next-gen graphics, the PS5’s internal 825GB SSD (with only about 667GB usable) fills up incredibly fast. Thankfully, Sony made it super easy to expand your storage with an internal M.2 SSD. And when it comes to performance and reliability, many gamers are looking for the Sabrent best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5, alongside other high-quality contenders.
Adding a 2TB M.2 SSD means you can keep dozens of your favorite games installed, enjoy lightning-fast load times, and never have to delete a masterpiece to make room for a new one. It’s a true game-changer! But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the best 2TB M.2 SSDs that are perfect for your PS5, including top-tier options from Sabrent and other trusted brands.
Why Upgrade Your PS5 Storage with an M.2 SSD?
The PlayStation 5 is an incredible console, but its storage capacity can quickly become a bottleneck. Modern games are massive, often exceeding 100GB, and digital libraries grow even faster. Here’s why a storage upgrade is essential:
- More Games, Less Deleting: Say goodbye to agonizing over which games to uninstall. A 2TB SSD lets you keep a huge library ready to play.
- Blazing-Fast Load Times: PS5 games are optimized to run on an incredibly fast SSD. Compatible M.2 SSDs match or even exceed these speeds, ensuring seamless gameplay and minimal waiting.
- Native PS5 Game Storage: Unlike external hard drives which can only store PS4 games or archive PS5 titles, an internal M.2 SSD lets you play PS5 games directly from the expanded storage.
- Future-Proofing: As game sizes continue to grow, a 2TB SSD provides ample space for years to come.
What to Look for in a PS5 M.2 SSD
Not just any M.2 SSD will do for your PS5. Sony has specific requirements to ensure optimal performance. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Form Factor: M.2 2280 (this is the physical size of the drive).
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD.
- Capacity: 250GB to 8TB (we’re focusing on 2TB for this guide, which is ideal for most users).
- Read Speed: 5,500 MB/s or faster is recommended. The faster, the better!
- Heatsink: Absolutely critical! SSDs generate heat, and sustained high temperatures can lead to performance throttling. Ensure your chosen SSD either comes with a pre-installed heatsink or you purchase one separately.
- Physical Size with Heatsink: Must fit within the PS5’s M.2 expansion slot dimensions.
Now, let’s explore some of the best 2TB M.2 SSDs for your PS5, starting with Sabrent and moving on to other top picks!
Product Reviews
1. SABRENT 2TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 SSD
The Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus is often hailed as a go-to choice for PS5 storage expansion, and it’s easy to see why. This drive offers truly blazing-fast performance that meets and often exceeds Sony’s requirements, ensuring your PS5 games load in a flash and run smoothly. What makes it stand out is its robust design, built for sustained high performance, and the availability of Sabrent’s own purpose-built heatsink (which we’ll look at separately) that seamlessly integrates with the PS5’s design for optimal cooling. If you’re looking for a top-tier Sabrent best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5, this one should be high on your list.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-Fast Performance: Achieve 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; backward compatible with PCIe Gen3.
- High-Endurance TLC NAND: Engineered with premium 3D TLC NAND for long-lasting performance, stability, and consistent write speeds under load.
- 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.
- Designed for PS5 Console: Engineered to fit perfectly and easily into the console’s SSD expansion slot for a quick install.
- Revolutionary Cooling: Compatible with Sabrent’s own high-quality CNC’d aluminum heatsink (sold separately), which replaces the native PS5 cover for superior cooling.
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Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds, far exceeding PS5 requirements.
- Premium components ensure high endurance and reliability.
- Excellent choice for demanding gamers and content creators.
- Sabrent’s dedicated PS5 heatsink offers superior thermal performance.
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Cons:
- Does not come with a heatsink pre-installed (must be purchased separately).
- Higher price point compared to some other options.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Rocket 4 Plus for its raw speed and reliability. Many have noted a significant improvement in load times and overall system responsiveness on their PS5. The combination with Sabrent’s custom heatsink is often highlighted as a perfect pairing, keeping temperatures in check even during intense gaming sessions.
2. SABRENT Rocket 4 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
While the Rocket 4 Plus pushes the absolute boundaries, the standard Sabrent Rocket 4 2TB SSD is still an incredibly powerful and often more budget-friendly option that meets the PS5’s demanding specifications with ease. It delivers next-gen Gen4 performance that ensures ultra-fast boot times, smooth gameplay, and quick loading screens. For those seeking excellent performance without necessarily needing the absolute top-tier speeds of the ‘Plus’ model, this drive represents a fantastic balance of speed, reliability, and value. It’s another strong contender if you’re searching for the Sabrent best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5.
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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 – built for sustained speed.
- 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 like gaming and editing.
- Sabrent Quality and Support: Built with premium components and broad OS support.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance that comfortably exceeds PS5 requirements.
- Reliable and durable build quality.
- More accessible price point than the Rocket 4 Plus.
- Good thermal efficiency for a drive without an integrated heatsink.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use.
- Slightly slower than the ‘Plus’ model, though still exceptionally fast.
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User Impressions: Gamers appreciate the Sabrent Rocket 4 for its consistent high performance and rock-solid reliability. Many users report easy installation and a noticeable improvement in game loading times. It’s often recommended as a great value choice for PS5 owners.
3. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
If you’re looking for peak performance straight out of the box with zero fuss, the Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is an absolute powerhouse. Samsung is a household name in memory, and their 990 PRO continues that legacy with breathtaking speeds and an integrated heatsink specifically designed to keep things cool under pressure. This drive is practically a cheat code for your PS5, offering near-max PCIe 4.0 performance and robust thermal control. It’s not a Sabrent, but it’s easily one of the best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 options available, especially if you prioritize a premium, integrated solution.
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Key Features:
- BLAZING SPEED. COOL VICTORY: Reaches near max performance with lightning-fast speeds and an integrated Heatsink.
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; over 55% improvement in random performance vs. 980 PRO.
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND**: Read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Available in capacities up to 4TB.
- MADE w/ PS5 IN MIND: Ultra-slim Integrated Heatsink designed to dissipate heat, preventing performance issues; compatible with PlayStation 5.
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Pros:
- Incredibly fast speeds, pushing the limits of PCIe Gen4.
- Integrated, high-quality heatsink designed for PS5 compatibility.
- Exceptional reliability and brand reputation.
- Easy “plug and play” installation for PS5.
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Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Heatsink cannot be removed, which might limit PC compatibility in some cases (though perfect for PS5).
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User Impressions: Customers rave about the 990 PRO’s blistering speed and the convenience of the pre-attached heatsink. Many highlight it as the ultimate upgrade for their PS5, noting significantly reduced load times and a seamless gaming experience without any thermal throttling worries.
4. WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State
The WD_BLACK SN7100 is a purpose-built gaming SSD that brings serious speed and Western Digital’s renowned reliability to your PS5. While perhaps not as widely recognized as the SN850X or 990 Pro, the SN7100 still delivers high-octane performance that comfortably meets the PS5’s requirements. It’s a fantastic choice for serious gamers looking for a robust and efficient storage expansion, especially if you’re keen on Western Digital’s ecosystem and reliable hardware.
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Key Features:
- HIGH-OCTANE GAMING: Experience speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- PURPOSE-BUILT: Designed for serious on-the-go gamers, with a PCIe Gen4 interface and Western Digital’s next generation TLC 3D NAND.
- MORE SPACE: Available in multiple capacities up to 4TB.
- MORE TIME TO CLEAR THAT CHECKPOINT: Built with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, with up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- DO MORE WITH DASHBOARD: Ensure your drive is optimized for prime performance with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only).
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Pros:
- Excellent read and write speeds for smooth PS5 gameplay.
- Highly power efficient, ideal for sustained performance.
- Backed by a reputable brand known for storage solutions.
- Often a good value option in the high-performance category.
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Cons:
- Does not come with a heatsink, which is essential for PS5 use.
- Dashboard software is Windows-only, not relevant for PS5.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the SN7100 for its solid performance and reliability in gaming rigs. For PS5 users, the key feedback revolves around its speed meeting console requirements and the necessity of adding a quality heatsink for optimal operation.
5. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PS5 Consoles
If peace of mind and seamless compatibility are your top priorities, the WD_BLACK SN850P is an absolute winner. This drive is officially licensed by PlayStation, meaning it’s been tested and approved by Sony themselves. It comes with a sleek, optimized heatsink designed specifically for the PS5, ensuring an easy, worry-free installation and superb thermal performance. You can play directly from this drive with confidence, knowing you have a fully approved and high-performance solution. This is undoubtedly one of the best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 options if you want guaranteed compatibility.
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Key Features:
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, ensuring no concern of compatibility.
- Capacities from 1TB to 4TB, allowing storage for up to 100 games (4TB model).
- Optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console for easy, worry-free installation.
- Play directly from the drive, eliminating the need to transfer or delete games.
- Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
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Pros:
- Officially licensed, guaranteeing perfect compatibility and performance.
- Pre-installed, optimized heatsink simplifies installation and ensures cooling.
- Exceptional speeds meet and exceed PS5 requirements.
- Includes a PS Plus trial, adding extra value.
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Cons:
- Premium price due to official licensing and integrated heatsink.
- Heatsink is purpose-built for PS5, might not be ideal for other PC builds.
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User Impressions: Users love the “officially licensed” status, which provides immense reassurance. The integrated heatsink is a huge plus for ease of installation, and the performance consistently receives high marks for delivering snappy load times and smooth gameplay. The PlayStation Plus trial is a nice bonus.
6. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD is a strong contender for PS5 users looking for high performance paired with an effective cooling solution, all at a competitive price. This SSD boasts impressive Gen4 speeds, significantly reducing game load times and system delays. What really sets it apart for PS5 users is the integrated graphene composite heat sink and an additional heatsink included in the package, offering robust thermal management right out of the box. It’s a compelling choice that balances speed, cooling, and value.
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Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface: Read/write speeds up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s, reducing game and OS delays.
- Compatible with PS5 & Large Capacity: Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC; M.2 2280 form factor.
- Premium Quality: Utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash memory chips and cutting-edge Maxio MAP1602 controller technology.
- Plug and Play & Strongly Cooling: Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink + additional heatsink (not installed) for chip cooling up to 10 degrees.
- What’s in the Box: Includes 2TB SSD, heatsink (not installed), screws, screwdriver, user manual.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast speeds, easily meeting PS5 requirements.
- Comes with two cooling solutions (integrated graphene + separate heatsink).
- Competitive pricing for its performance tier.
- Includes installation tools (screws, screwdriver).
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Cons:
- Brand recognition is not as established as Sabrent, Samsung, or WD_BLACK.
- Heatsink requires manual installation.
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User Impressions: Customers are often impressed by the performance-to-price ratio of the MOVE SPEED HB7450. The inclusion of an additional heatsink is frequently highlighted as a thoughtful addition, and users confirm its effectiveness in keeping the drive cool during extended gaming sessions on their PS5.
7. fanxiang 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 SSD for PS5
The fanxiang 2TB NVMe SSD offers a solid and affordable option for PS5 storage expansion, providing efficient Gen4 performance without breaking the bank. With respectable speeds that meet the PS5’s minimum requirements, it ensures swift game launches and an immersive gaming experience. It’s a straightforward, value-focused choice for expanding your game library, especially for those who appreciate the convenience of an included heat dissipation sticker.
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Key Features:
- Efficient Performance: PCIe Gen4 x4 technology, NVMe1.4 protocol, with speeds reaching 5000MB/s.
- Ample Storage Expansion: Capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB.
- Fast Heat Dissipation: Graphite heat dissipation sticker ensures low temperatures during intensive usage.
- Wide Compatibility: Optimal for PS5 storage expansion, also compatible with desktops and laptops.
- 5-Year Service: Comes with a 5-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support.
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Pros:
- Budget-friendly option for 2TB PS5 storage.
- Includes a graphite heat dissipation sticker.
- Meets the minimum read speed requirements for PS5.
- Good customer service and warranty.
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Cons:
- Speeds are closer to the PS5’s minimum requirement compared to other faster options.
- Graphite sticker might not be as effective as a full metal heatsink for sustained heavy use on PS5.
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User Impressions: Users looking for a cost-effective PS5 upgrade often turn to fanxiang. They generally find the performance sufficient for smooth gameplay and appreciate the included heat sticker. The 5-year warranty also provides peace of mind.
Recommended Accessory: SABRENT M.2 NVMe PS5 Heatsink (SB-PSHS)
While not an SSD itself, the Sabrent M.2 NVMe PS5 heatsink is an indispensable accessory, especially if you’re choosing a Sabrent SSD like the Rocket 4 Plus or Rocket 4 that doesn’t come with a pre-installed heatsink. This isn’t just any heatsink; it’s meticulously engineered by Sabrent to perfectly fit the PS5’s M.2 expansion slot and maximize cooling performance. It intelligently replaces the native PS5 cover, allowing the console’s internal fan to better dissipate heat, making it a “must-have” for optimizing your Sabrent best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5.
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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, utilizing the native fan for better cooling with a larger heatsink.
- INDUSTRIAL QUALITY: Uses Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” for even pressure and efficient, consistent heat transfer.
- CONVENIENCE: Comes with an installation guide, screws, and thermal tape.
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Pros:
- Superior cooling performance compared to generic heatsinks.
- Clever design replaces the PS5’s original cover, integrating with the console’s airflow.
- High-quality CNC’d aluminum construction.
- Easy installation with included guide and tools.
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Cons:
- An additional purchase, adding to the total cost.
- Only works with bare M.2 SSDs (not those with pre-attached heatsinks).
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User Impressions: PS5 owners who’ve paired this heatsink with a compatible SSD often call it the “perfect fit.” They consistently report low SSD temperatures even during long gaming sessions, validating Sabrent’s innovative design that leverages the PS5’s internal cooling system.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5?
A: The PS5’s internal storage is limited, and modern games are huge! An M.2 SSD lets you significantly expand your game library, play PS5 games directly from the expanded storage, and enjoy faster load times without having to constantly delete and re-download games.
Q2: What are the minimum requirements for a PS5 M.2 SSD?
A: Your M.2 SSD needs to be a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD, M.2 type 2280, with a capacity between 250GB and 8TB. Most importantly, it must have a sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster. And don’t forget the heatsink!
Q3: Do I need a heatsink for my PS5 SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely! PS5 SSDs run at high speeds and generate a lot of heat. A heatsink is crucial to dissipate this heat, preventing thermal throttling (where the drive slows down to prevent overheating) and ensuring stable, long-term performance. Always use an SSD with a pre-installed heatsink or buy one separately.
Q4: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A: Sony has made the process quite straightforward! You’ll need a screwdriver and about 10-15 minutes. Power down your PS5, unplug all cables, remove the console covers, unscrew and remove the expansion slot cover, insert the SSD (with heatsink), secure it with the included screw, and then replace the covers. The PS5 will guide you through formatting the drive once you power it back on.
Q5: Can I use any 2TB M.2 SSD with my PS5?
A: No, you can’t use any M.2 SSD. It must meet Sony’s specific requirements, especially regarding PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe interface and a read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. Always check the specifications carefully and ensure it comes with a heatsink or you purchase one that fits.
Q6: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen3 and Gen4 SSDs?
A: PCIe Gen4 is the newer and faster standard, doubling the bandwidth of PCIe Gen3. The PS5 requires a Gen4 SSD to achieve the necessary speeds for next-gen gaming. Gen3 SSDs are significantly slower and are not compatible for playing PS5 games directly from the expansion slot.
Q7: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A: No, installing an officially supported M.2 SSD will not void your PS5 warranty. Sony designed the console with an accessible expansion slot for this purpose. Just make sure to follow the official installation instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Expanding your PS5’s storage with a 2TB M.2 SSD is one of the best upgrades you can make for your gaming experience. Whether you’re eyeing the Sabrent best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 for its raw power and custom cooling solutions, or considering the seamless integration of an officially licensed WD_BLACK drive, there’s a fantastic option out there for you.
Each of the SSDs we’ve reviewed here offers excellent performance, meeting or exceeding Sony’s stringent requirements. Remember to prioritize speed and, crucially, always ensure your chosen SSD either comes with a pre-installed heatsink or you acquire a compatible one. With a new 2TB SSD, you’ll be able to download more games, enjoy faster load times, and dive into your favorite PlayStation 5 titles without a moment’s hesitation! Happy gaming!