Hey PlayStation 5 gamers! Ever found yourself staring at that “storage full” message right when a new epic title drops? Or maybe you’re just tired of those lengthy loading screens pulling you out of the action? You’re not alone! The PS5 is an incredible console, but its internal 825GB SSD (with only about 667GB usable) fills up fast. That’s where a high-performance M.2 NVMe SSD comes to the rescue, letting you expand your storage and often even boost game loading times. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best one?
Today, we’re diving deep to answer a crucial question for many: is a Lexar best 2tb m.2 ssd for ps5 truly the way to go? Lexar has a solid reputation for reliable and fast storage solutions, and they’ve got some serious contenders designed to meet the PS5’s demanding requirements. We’ve rounded up five top 2TB M.2 SSDs, including Lexar’s best offerings and a powerful alternative from Samsung, to help you make an informed decision. While most of these drives are perfect PS5 companions, we’ll also peek at a future-proof PCIe Gen5 option for PC users, just to show you the cutting edge of storage technology. Ready to upgrade your PS5 gaming experience? Let’s jump in!
Understanding PS5 M.2 SSD Requirements
Before we dive into the reviews, let’s quickly recap what your PS5 needs from an M.2 SSD:
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD
- Capacity: 250GB to 8TB
- Read Speed: 5,500MB/s or faster recommended
- Form Factor: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110 (2280 is most common)
- Heatsink: Absolutely essential to prevent thermal throttling and maintain performance!
Now, let’s explore our top picks!
1. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is a fantastic all-rounder, purpose-built to deliver blazing-fast performance without breaking a sweat, thanks to its integrated cooling solution. It’s an ideal candidate for gamers looking for a robust storage upgrade that can handle intense gaming sessions on their PS5. If you’re searching for a Lexar best 2tb m.2 ssd for ps5 that’s ready to go right out of the box, this one definitely deserves your attention for its speed and efficient design.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– 1500TBW (Total Bytes Written) for excellent durability
– 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs, meeting PS5’s Gen4 demands
– Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool for better performance and power efficiency
– Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for smoother transfers
– Compatible with PlayStation 5
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Comes with an integrated heatsink, simplifying PS5 installation
– Excellent read/write speeds that exceed PS5’s recommendations
– High endurance (TBW) ensures long-term reliability
– Power-efficient design helps with system thermals
– Great value for performance
Cons:
– May still require careful installation to ensure proper fit in the PS5 expansion slot
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise this drive for its “plug-and-play” convenience for the PS5, thanks to the pre-attached heatsink. Many report noticeable improvements in game loading times and overall system responsiveness. It’s often highlighted as a reliable and cost-effective upgrade that delivers on its promises.
2. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
This version of the Lexar NM790 offers the same exceptional speed and power efficiency as its heatsink-equipped sibling, but comes as a bare drive. While it’s fantastic for laptops or PCs where space is tight or you prefer to add your own specific heatsink, PS5 users will absolutely need to purchase and install a separate, compatible heatsink to ensure optimal performance and longevity. It’s still a strong contender if you’re aiming for a Lexar best 2tb m.2 ssd for ps5 and want flexibility with your cooling solution.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– 1500TBW for robust durability
– 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs, ideal for PS5
– Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smoother transfer speeds and seamless performance
– Designed for hardcore gamers, professionals, and creators
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 (with added heatsink)
– Single-sided NVMe SSD is perfect for laptops and tight spaces
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds that meet or exceed PS5 requirements
– High endurance and efficiency
– More affordable than versions with pre-attached heatsinks
– Single-sided design can fit into more compact spaces
– Five-year warranty provides peace of mind
Cons:
– Requires purchasing and installing a separate heatsink for PS5 compatibility, adding an extra step and cost
– Installation with a separate heatsink can be slightly more complex
User Impressions:
Customers love the raw speed and value of this drive. PC users find it incredibly versatile, especially for laptops. PS5 owners who opted for this version and added their own heatsink report excellent results, noting that the performance holds up even under heavy loads. The main feedback revolves around the added step of heatsink installation for PS5.
3. Lexar 2TB Play SSD with Heatsink PCle Gen 4×4 NVMe
The Lexar Play SSD with Heatsink is specifically tuned and tested for the PS5, making it a stellar choice for console gamers. If you want a drive that’s designed from the ground up with your PlayStation experience in mind, this is it. It offers speeds that ensure reduced load times and seamless gameplay, and the integrated heatsink is tailor-made for easy installation in your PS5’s expansion slot. This drive directly targets the need for a reliable and optimized Lexar best 2tb m.2 ssd for ps5.
Key Features:
– Designed to coordinate with your PS5 to enhance your gaming experience
– 7400MB/s max read and 6500MB/s max write speeds for reduced load times
– 2TB: 1600TBW, offering excellent longevity
– Tested and approved storage for your PS5 console, allowing direct game play from the drive
– Includes a unique heatsink for effortless installation and enhanced cooling
– HMB and SLC Dynamic cache deliver improved performance for both PS5 and PC gaming
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Specifically tested and optimized for PS5 compatibility
– Integrated heatsink for easy and secure installation
– Superior read/write speeds ensure minimal loading screens
– Allows playing games directly from the drive without transfers
– High TBW rating for extended lifespan
Cons:
– May be slightly pricier than non-PS5 specific drives with similar specs
User Impressions:
PS5 users rave about the “designed for PS5” aspect, reporting incredibly smooth installation and immediate performance benefits. The peace of mind that comes with a console-specific, tested drive is a big plus for many, who find it a truly hassle-free upgrade for their gaming setup.
4. Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 2280 Internal
Important Note for PS5 Users: While this Lexar NM1090 PRO is an absolute beast in terms of performance, it uses PCIe Gen5 technology, which is currently not compatible with the PlayStation 5. The PS5 supports PCIe Gen4. Therefore, this drive is NOT suitable for a PS5 upgrade. We’re including it here to showcase Lexar’s cutting-edge technology for PC users looking for a future-proof storage solution, especially for high-end gaming rigs, AI PCs, or professional workstations. If you’re building a top-tier PC, this drive is a game-changer!
Key Features:
– PCIe 5.0 technology delivers blistering read/write speeds up to 14,000/13,000 MB/s
– Accelerates load times by 200% compared to Gen4 – excellent with AMD Ryzen and Intel i9
– Powerful 6nm controller optimizes heat control for a smoother experience
– Perfect internal SSD for AI PCs: reduces bottlenecks and accelerates AI model training
– DRAM Cache and SLC Dynamic Cache greatly enhance data transfer speeds
– Works with Microsoft DirectStorage to significantly boost game loads, minimize delays, and conserve CPU power
Pros:
– Unmatched PCIe Gen5 speeds for future-proof performance
– Ideal for high-end PC builds, AI, and professional workloads
– Dramatically reduces loading times in compatible systems
– Advanced heat control and cache technologies for sustained performance
Cons:
– Not compatible with PlayStation 5 (or any current console)
– Requires a motherboard with PCIe Gen5 support (e.g., AMD AM5, Intel 700 series)
– Likely to be significantly more expensive than Gen4 drives
User Impressions:
Early adopters of Gen5 technology praise this drive for its incredible speed and responsiveness in compatible PC systems. It’s considered a premium option for those seeking the absolute bleeding edge of storage performance for high-demanding applications and future-ready gaming.
5. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
While our focus has been on finding the Lexar best 2tb m.2 ssd for ps5, it would be a disservice not to include Samsung’s reigning champion: the 990 PRO with Heatsink. Samsung is a titan in flash memory, and the 990 PRO is a testament to their expertise. This drive offers blistering Gen4 speeds and comes with a cleverly designed ultra-slim heatsink that’s specifically made with PS5 compatibility in mind, ensuring optimal thermal management during intense gaming sessions. It’s a premium, high-performance option for those who demand the absolute best.
Key Features:
– BLAZING SPEED. COOL VICTORY: Near max PCIe Gen4 performance with lightning-fast speeds
– Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO
– Read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, reaching near max performance of PCIe 4.0
– Available in storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB (this review focuses on 2TB)
– MADE w/ PS5 IN MIND: Ultra-slim Integrated Heatsink designed to dissipate heat
– Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops and laptops
Pros:
– Top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance from a trusted brand
– Integrated heatsink is specifically designed for PS5 compatibility
– Exceptional random performance, crucial for gaming
– Excellent durability and reliability
– Backed by Samsung’s reputation for quality flash memory
Cons:
– Generally at the higher end of the price spectrum for 2TB Gen4 SSDs
– Might be overkill for casual users, though a treat for enthusiasts
User Impressions:
The Samsung 990 PRO consistently receives glowing reviews from PS5 users and PC gamers alike. Its reputation for incredible speed, stability, and reliable thermal performance, especially with the integrated heatsink, makes it a favorite. Many consider it the benchmark for M.2 SSDs compatible with the PS5, despite its premium price.
Conclusion: Is Lexar the Best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5?
So, after looking at these fantastic options, is a Lexar best 2tb m.2 ssd for ps5 the ultimate choice? Lexar certainly offers incredibly strong contenders! The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink and especially the Lexar Play SSD with Heatsink are superb choices, delivering exceptional Gen4 performance and convenient, PS5-ready designs. The Play SSD, with its specific PS5 testing, offers that extra peace of mind for console gamers.
However, the Samsung 990 PRO w/ Heatsink stands as a formidable competitor, often setting the bar for premium Gen4 performance and reliability, albeit at a higher price point.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a top-performing 2TB M.2 SSD for your PS5, both Lexar and Samsung offer excellent, fast, and reliable drives with integrated heatsinks. Your decision might come down to budget, specific feature preferences, or brand loyalty. No matter which you choose from our PS5-compatible picks, you’re in for a significant upgrade to your gaming experience!
FAQ: All Your PS5 M.2 SSD Questions Answered!
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5?
A: Your PS5’s internal storage is limited. An M.2 SSD allows you to significantly expand your game library, reduce the need to delete games, and potentially improve game loading times, providing a much smoother gaming experience.
Q2: What are the minimum speed requirements for a PS5 M.2 SSD?
A: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster. All the PS5-compatible drives reviewed here comfortably exceed this requirement.
Q3: Is a heatsink truly mandatory for a PS5 M.2 SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely! A heatsink is crucial for dissipating heat generated by the high-speed SSD. Without one, the drive can overheat, leading to thermal throttling (reduced performance) and potentially shortening its lifespan. Sony strongly recommends using one.
Q4: Can I install any 2TB M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A: No, you need a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD that meets Sony’s specific speed, size, and heatsink requirements. PCIe Gen3 or older SATA M.2 SSDs are not compatible. As seen with the Lexar NM1090 PRO, PCIe Gen5 drives are also not supported by the PS5.
Q5: How difficult is it to install an M.2 SSD in the PS5?
A: It’s a relatively straightforward process. Sony has designed the PS5’s expansion slot to be user-accessible. You’ll need a Phillips-head screwdriver. Many guides and videos are available online that walk you through the simple steps.
Q6: Can I play PS5 games directly from the expanded M.2 SSD?
A: Yes! Once installed and formatted, your M.2 SSD functions just like your PS5’s internal storage. You can download and play PS5 games directly from it, as well as transfer games between the internal SSD and your new M.2 drive.
Q7: What does “TBW” mean, and why is it important for an SSD?
A: TBW stands for “Total Bytes Written.” It’s a measure of an SSD’s endurance, indicating how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its reliability might start to degrade. Higher TBW values mean greater durability, which is good for long-term use, especially for frequent gamers.