So, you’ve got a shiny PS5, and you’re loving those next-gen graphics and lightning-fast loading screens. But let’s be real, that internal 825GB SSD (with less than 700GB usable) fills up faster than you can say “Spider-Man: Miles Morales.” Before you know it, you’re constantly deleting games to make space for new ones, which is a total buzzkill.
Good news! Sony designed the PS5 with an expansion slot specifically for an M.2 NVMe SSD, letting you dramatically boost your storage and keep all your favorite titles ready to play. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one?
That’s where we come in! We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to the Sabrent best SSD cards for PS5, alongside other top-tier contenders. We’ll break down what makes each drive stand out, helping you make an informed decision to upgrade your PlayStation 5 storage and say goodbye to storage anxiety.
Let’s dive into the world of high-speed solid-state drives for your PS5!
Understanding PS5 SSD Requirements
Before we jump into the reviews, it’s crucial to know what your PS5 needs:
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD.
- Capacity: 250GB to 8TB.
- Read Speed: At least 5,500 MB/s.
- Form Factor: M.2 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110 (2280 is most common).
- Heatsink: Absolutely essential! The PS5 requires an SSD with an integrated heatsink or one that you attach separately to prevent thermal throttling and maintain optimal performance.
The Best SSD Cards for PS5 Reviewed
Here’s our breakdown of the top M.2 NVMe SSDs perfect for your PS5:
1. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
If you’re looking for a beast of a drive that prioritizes raw speed and excellent thermal management, the MOVE SPEED HB7450 is a fantastic choice. This 2TB NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 SSD is specifically designed to meet and exceed PS5’s demanding requirements, ensuring your games load in a blink and run smoothly without a hitch. It even comes with a graphene composite heatsink pre-installed, plus an extra one in the box for added measure – talk about being prepared!
Key Features:
– NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High-Speed Interface with up to 7450MB/s read and 6500MB/s write speeds.
– Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptops, and PCs in an M.2 2280 form factor.
– Utilizes high-quality 3D NAND flash memory and a cutting-edge Maxio MAP1602 controller.
– Built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink for strong cooling, with an additional heatsink included (not installed).
– Rigorously tested for stability and long service life (almost 80 hours of testing).
Pros:
– Extremely fast speeds, well above PS5 minimums.
– Large 2TB capacity offers ample room for many games.
– Dual heatsink solution ensures excellent temperature control.
– High-quality components for reliability and durability.
– Easy plug-and-play installation with included tools.
Cons:
– Brand might be less familiar to some users compared to giants like Samsung or Sabrent.
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise the MOVE SPEED HB7450 for its blazing-fast performance and how effortlessly it integrates with their PS5. Many highlight the effective cooling system, noting that their console remains stable even during intense gaming sessions. The generous storage space is also a consistent win, allowing gamers to download extensive libraries without worry.
2. SABRENT 1TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2
When it comes to top-tier performance and reliability, Sabrent is a name that often comes up, and the 1TB Rocket 4 Plus is a prime example of their engineering prowess. This drive offers excellent speeds that comfortably clear the PS5’s requirements, making it one of the Sabrent best SSD cards for PS5 if you’re looking for a solid 1TB option. Just remember, you’ll need to purchase a compatible heatsink separately for optimal PS5 usage!
Key Features:
– NVMe M.2 PCIe Gen4 x4 Interface, PCIe 4.0 and NVMe 1.3 Compliant.
– Supports Power Management (APST / ASPM / L1.2) for efficiency.
– Features SMART and TRIM commands for drive health and maintenance.
– Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code, and Over-Provisioning.
– Includes free Sabrent Acronis True Image software for easy cloning.
Pros:
– Excellent read and write speeds, ideal for PS5.
– Robust data integrity features for long-term reliability.
– Sabrent’s reputation for quality SSDs.
– Flexible sector sizing for advanced cloning needs.
Cons:
– Heatsink for PS5 sold separately (essential for PS5 compatibility).
– 1TB might still feel a bit small for avid collectors of large AAA games.
User Impressions:
Customers consistently report exceptional speeds and stability when using the Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus. They appreciate Sabrent’s commitment to drive health and the included cloning software, which makes upgrades smoother for PC users. PS5 owners note that once paired with a proper heatsink, this drive transforms their console’s storage capabilities.
3. Seagate Game Drive PS5 NVMe SSD for PS5 1TB Internal
For those who prioritize seamless integration and official backing, the Seagate Game Drive PS5 NVMe SSD is an excellent choice. This drive is officially licensed for PS5, meaning it’s built with matching firmware to ensure perfect compatibility right out of the box. It even comes with a custom heatsink designed to fit the PS5’s expansion slot perfectly, taking all the guesswork out of your upgrade.
Key Features:
– Officially licensed for PS5, ensuring seamless compatibility.
– Custom heatsink included, designed to minimize thermal throttling.
– Up to 7300/6000MB/s read/write speeds, harnessing full PCIe Gen4 power.
– All PS5 and PS4 games can operate directly from the NVMe SSD.
– Backed by an industry-leading 5-year warranty.
Pros:
– Guaranteed compatibility and performance due to official licensing.
– Comes with a custom-fit heatsink, simplifying installation.
– Extremely high speeds for minimal load times.
– Excellent warranty provides peace of mind.
Cons:
– Price might be slightly higher due to official licensing.
– 1TB capacity may still be limiting for some users.
User Impressions:
PS5 owners love the “install and forget” nature of the Seagate Game Drive. The official license gives them confidence, and the pre-installed custom heatsink is a huge convenience. Users confirm that games load incredibly fast, and the drive maintains cool temperatures even during extended play.
4. SABRENT M.2 NVMe PS5 heatsink (SB-PSHS)
While not an SSD itself, the SABRENT M.2 NVMe PS5 heatsink is an absolutely critical component if you’re installing a bare M.2 NVMe SSD into your PlayStation 5, especially if you choose one of the other fantastic Sabrent best SSD cards for PS5 that don’t come with an integrated heatsink. This isn’t just any heatsink; it’s meticulously engineered to replace the PS5’s native M.2 cover, using the console’s internal fan for superior cooling.
Key Features:
– Specifically designed to fit perfectly into the PS5 console’s SSD expansion slot.
– Made from high-quality CNC’d aluminum for maximum cooling performance.
– Replaces the native PS5 console’s SSD bay cover, allowing better cooling using the console’s fan.
– Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” ensures even pressure for efficient and consistent heat transfer.
– Includes installation guide, screws, and thermal tape for convenient setup.
Pros:
– Superior cooling performance compared to standard heatsinks that sit under the cover.
– Engineered for perfect PS5 fit and aesthetic integration.
– High-quality materials and design.
– Easy to install with included accessories.
Cons:
– An additional purchase if your chosen SSD doesn’t have an integrated heatsink.
– Requires a small amount of DIY installation.
User Impressions:
This heatsink is a favorite among PS5 enthusiasts who pair it with their Sabrent Rocket drives. Users consistently report significantly lower temperatures for their SSDs, leading to sustained performance. The innovative design that utilizes the PS5’s fan is frequently highlighted as a major advantage over other heatsink solutions.
5. SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 4TB, NVMe M.2
Samsung is a titan in the memory and storage world, and their 990 PRO with Heatsink SSD for the PS5 is nothing short of exceptional. This drive isn’t just fast; it’s a future-proof powerhouse designed for heavy computing, serious gaming, and anyone who demands the absolute best. With a massive 4TB capacity and an ultra-slim integrated heatsink, it’s ready to handle anything you throw at it.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast Gen 4 performance with read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
– More than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
– Integrated ultra-slim heatsink designed to dissipate heat and prevent performance issues.
– Massive 4TB storage capacity for endless games, videos, and data.
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops/laptops.
Pros:
– Industry-leading speeds, pushing the limits of PCIe 4.0.
– Massive 4TB capacity eliminates storage concerns for years to come.
– Samsung’s renowned reliability and performance as the #1 flash memory brand.
– Effective integrated heatsink tailored for PS5 compatibility.
Cons:
– Premium price point due to top-tier performance and brand.
– 4TB might be overkill for some users’ needs.
User Impressions:
Users are consistently blown away by the Samsung 990 PRO’s speed, often remarking on how quickly games load and how seamlessly large files transfer. PS5 owners specifically praise the integrated heatsink for its effectiveness and the ease of installation. The immense storage capacity is a huge bonus, allowing them to install entire game libraries without a second thought.
6. SABRENT 4TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2
If you’re all about maximizing storage and speed with a trusted brand, the SABRENT 4TB Rocket 4 Plus is definitely one of the Sabrent best SSD cards for PS5 to consider. This drive takes the excellent performance of the Rocket 4 Plus and bundles it with a purpose-built heatsink, making it a complete, high-capacity solution for your PS5. No need to worry about separate purchases or complex installations here!
Key Features:
– Engineered to fit perfectly and easily into the PS5 console’s SSD expansion slot.
– Exceeds PS5 speed requirements with read/write speeds of 7100MB/s and 6600MB/s.
– Revolutionary cooling provided by a high-quality CNC’d aluminum heatsink.
– Heatsink replaces the native PS5 console’s M.2 cover for better cooling using the console’s fan.
– Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” heatsink ensures even pressure for efficient heat transfer.
Pros:
– Enormous 4TB capacity for an extensive game library.
– Blazing-fast speeds, well exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Comes as a complete package with a PS5-optimized heatsink.
– Innovative heatsink design for superior cooling performance.
– Sabrent’s reputation for quality and performance.
Cons:
– Premium price point for such high capacity and performance.
– Installation requires replacing the PS5’s M.2 cover, which some might find slightly more involved than a simple stick-on heatsink.
User Impressions:
Gamers who invested in the Sabrent 4TB Rocket 4 Plus with heatsink are overwhelmingly positive. They love the huge storage boost and the peace of mind that comes with a combined solution. The speeds are consistently praised, and many highlight how the innovative heatsink keeps temperatures in check, even during long gaming marathons. This truly elevates the PS5 experience.
7. Fikwot FX991 M.2 SSD 2TB NVMe SSD M2 2280 PCIe
The Fikwot FX991 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD offers a compelling blend of speed, smart thermal management, and excellent compatibility, making it a strong contender for your PS5 storage upgrade. With impressive read/write speeds and intelligent features like HMB and SLC Cache, this drive ensures your PS5 runs smoothly and efficiently. It even comes equipped with a high-conductivity graphite heatsink for effective cooling.
Key Features:
– Lightning-fast NVMe protocol and PCIe Gen 4×4 specifications, reaching 7300MB/s read and 6400MB/s write speeds.
– Excellent Thermal Management with auto-adaptive temperature adjustment and power efficiency.
– Equipped with a high-conductivity graphite heatsink to maintain peak performance under load.
– Features HMB (Host Memory Buffer) and smart SLC cache for improved system responsiveness.
– Supports TRIM, S.M.A.R.T, and AES-256 encryption.
– Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptops, and desktop computers.
Pros:
– Very high speeds, meeting and exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Intelligent thermal management for stable performance and potentially longer device battery life (for laptops).
– HMB and SLC Cache enhance overall responsiveness.
– Comes with a graphite heatsink for good heat dissipation.
– Strong 5-year service/1200TBW warranty.
Cons:
– Brand might be less established than some of the market leaders.
– Graphite heatsink might not be as robust as a full aluminum solution in all scenarios.
User Impressions:
Users are pleasantly surprised by the Fikwot FX991’s performance, often noting its impressive speed and smooth operation on their PS5 consoles. The included heatsink is appreciated for its effectiveness, and the drive’s ability to keep cool under pressure is a common point of praise. Many consider it an excellent value for a 2TB Gen4 SSD.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I upgrade my PS5’s internal storage with an M.2 SSD?
A1: The PS5’s built-in storage fills up quickly, especially with large next-gen games. Upgrading with an M.2 NVMe SSD allows you to install significantly more games, reduce the need to delete and re-download titles, and enjoy the same lightning-fast load times as the console’s original drive.
Q2: What are the absolute minimum requirements for a PS5-compatible SSD?
A2: You need a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. It must also have a heatsink attached, either integrated or purchased separately, to prevent overheating.
Q3: Is installing an M.2 SSD in a PS5 difficult?
A3: Not at all! Sony designed the PS5’s expansion slot to be user-friendly. It typically involves removing the PS5’s side cover, unscrewing a small plate, inserting the SSD, and replacing the screws and cover. Many SSDs, including some of the Sabrent best SSD cards for PS5, come with installation guides.
Q4: Can I use any M.2 NVMe SSD with my PS5?
A4: No, only PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSDs that meet or exceed the 5,500 MB/s read speed requirement are compatible. Older PCIe Gen3 SSDs will not work for PS5 games. Also, remember the heatsink is mandatory.
Q5: What’s the difference between an integrated heatsink and a separate one?
A5: An integrated heatsink comes pre-attached to the SSD. A separate heatsink needs to be manually installed onto a bare SSD. While both work, integrated heatsinks offer convenience. Some specialized heatsinks, like the Sabrent M.2 NVMe PS5 heatsink, are designed to replace the PS5’s internal M.2 cover for potentially better thermal dissipation.
Q6: Will an upgraded SSD improve game performance or frame rates?
A6: An SSD upgrade primarily improves load times and allows you to store more PS5 games. It won’t directly increase frame rates or graphical fidelity, as those are handled by the console’s CPU and GPU. However, some games that stream assets directly from storage might see smoother transitions with a faster drive.
Q7: How much storage capacity should I choose for my PS5?
A7: This depends on your gaming habits.
* 1TB: Good for casual gamers or those who don’t play many large AAA titles simultaneously.
* 2TB: An excellent balance for most gamers, offering plenty of space for a substantial game library.
* 4TB or more: Ideal for avid collectors, those with large digital libraries, or anyone who wants to ensure they never run out of space for years to come.
Q8: Can I transfer my PS4 games to the new internal M.2 SSD?
A8: Yes, you can! Both PS5 and PS4 games can be stored and played directly from the expanded M.2 SSD. This is a great way to free up the console’s main internal storage for PS5-specific titles if you wish.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 5’s storage with a high-performance M.2 NVMe SSD is one of the best enhancements you can make. It dramatically expands your game library potential and ensures you keep those lightning-fast load times that define the next-gen experience.
Whether you opt for the robust and trusted performance of the Sabrent best SSD cards for PS5 like the Rocket 4 Plus, the officially licensed peace of mind of Seagate, or the sheer capacity and speed of the Samsung 990 PRO, you’re making a smart investment. Just remember to always prioritize a PCIe Gen4 drive with a reliable heatsink for optimal performance and console longevity.
Happy gaming, and enjoy your expanded universe of games!