Is your PlayStation 5 storage bursting at the seams? If you’re a serious gamer, you know the struggle: constantly deleting games to make room for new titles or crucial updates. Thankfully, expanding your PS5’s storage is easier than ever with M.2 NVMe SSDs, and finding the SanDisk best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 can be a game-changer.
While SanDisk itself doesn’t directly brand M.2 SSDs for consoles, their flash technology powers many top-tier Western Digital drives, including the highly acclaimed WD_BLACK and WD Blue series. These SanDisk-powered drives, alongside other industry leaders, offer incredible speed, reliability, and the much-needed space to store your entire game library.
In this guide, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the 10 best 2TB M.2 SSDs that are perfect for your PS5, including those backed by SanDisk’s robust technology, ensuring you get blazing-fast load times and ample storage. We’ll dive into what makes each drive stand out, helping you make an informed decision to elevate your gaming experience.
Our Top 10 Picks for Your PS5 Storage Upgrade
1. WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
If you’re looking for high-octane performance to keep up with the most demanding PS5 titles, the WD_BLACK SN7100 2TB is a fantastic choice. Powered by SanDisk’s next-generation TLC 3D NAND, this drive delivers impressive speeds that significantly cut down on load times, making your gaming sessions smoother and more immersive. It’s built for serious gamers who demand reliability and speed, offering a seamless upgrade for your console.
-
Key Features:
- High-octane gaming performance with speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- Purpose-built with a PCIe Gen4 interface and SanDisk’s next-generation TLC 3D NAND.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- Compatible with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for optimization.
- Manufactured by SanDisk Technologies, Inc. or its affiliates.
-
Pros:
- Excellent read/write speeds ideal for PS5 gaming.
- Energy-efficient design.
- Backed by SanDisk’s reliable technology.
- Offers ample space for a large game library.
-
Cons:
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use (not included).
- WD_BLACK Dashboard is Windows-only, so no PS5 utility.
-
User Impressions: Gamers frequently praise the SN7100 for its noticeable speed boost and stable performance. Many find it to be a cost-effective way to get high-tier performance without breaking the bank, especially when paired with a good aftermarket heatsink.
2. WD_BLACK SN8100 2TB NVMe SSD Internal Solid State Drive
Stepping into the future, the WD_BLACK SN8100 2TB SSD is a powerhouse built with PCIe Gen 5.0×4 technology. While the PS5 currently supports PCIe Gen4 speeds, this drive is backward compatible and offers incredible future-proofing, delivering some of the fastest speeds currently available. If you want a drive that not only meets but exceeds the PS5’s requirements and prepares you for future console generations or PC upgrades, this SanDisk-powered marvel is certainly a top contender.
-
Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 5.0×4 NVMe M.2 SSD for drastic performance enhancement.
- Breakneck sequential read speeds up to 14,900MB/s and write speeds up to 14,000MB/s (2TB-4TB model).
- Industry-leading power efficiency, over 100% more than PCIe Gen4 drives.
- High reliability with up to 4,800 TBW and latest TLC 3D CBA NAND technology.
- SanDisk Dashboard (Windows only) for performance monitoring.
- Manufactured by SanDisk Technologies, Inc. or its affiliates.
-
Pros:
- Unrivaled Gen5 speeds (future-proof, works at Gen4 speeds on PS5).
- Exceptional power efficiency.
- Extremely high endurance for long-term use.
- Huge storage capacity potential (up to 8TB models available).
-
Cons:
- PCIe Gen5 speeds are overkill for PS5’s Gen4 slot, meaning you won’t fully utilize its potential yet.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5, which isn’t included.
-
User Impressions: Users are blown away by the sheer speed and responsiveness of the SN8100. While acknowledging the Gen5 capabilities aren’t fully utilized on PS5, the drive still offers phenomenal Gen4 performance, making it a highly recommended choice for those who want the absolute best.
3. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is widely recognized as one of the best SSDs on the market, and it’s explicitly “MADE w/ PS5 IN MIND.” This 2TB M.2 SSD combines blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds with a pre-installed, ultra-slim heatsink, ensuring optimal temperature control and peak performance during intense gaming sessions. For anyone seeking the SanDisk best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 alternatives, this Samsung drive is a fierce competitor due to its seamless compatibility and top-tier performance.
-
Key Features:
- Near-max PCIe 4.0 performance with read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
- Integrated heatsink designed to dissipate heat and prevent performance issues.
- Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to the 980 PRO.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard desktops/laptops.
- Storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB.
-
Pros:
- Industry-leading performance for PCIe Gen4.
- Pre-installed heatsink perfectly sized for PS5.
- Exceptional reliability from the world’s #1 flash memory brand.
- Specifically designed with PS5 compatibility in mind.
-
Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Not a SanDisk-powered product (if that’s a strict requirement).
-
User Impressions: Gamers consistently praise the 990 PRO’s incredible speed and hassle-free installation in the PS5. The included heatsink is a huge plus, ensuring stable performance without extra steps. It’s often cited as the gold standard for PS5 SSDs.
4. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PS5
When it comes to official PlayStation 5 accessories, the WD_BLACK SN850P 2TB M.2 SSD stands out. This drive is officially licensed for PS5 consoles, offering worry-free compatibility and an optimized heatsink specifically designed for the console’s M.2 slot. If you’re looking for the SanDisk best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 with guaranteed compatibility and an extra perk like a PlayStation Plus trial, this is your go-to. Play directly from the drive with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s and enjoy incredibly short load times.
-
Key Features:
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles.
- Optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console.
- Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s (PCIe Gen 4 technology).
- Store up to 100 games on the 4TB model (2TB still offers substantial space).
- Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
- Manufactured by SanDisk Technologies, Inc. or its affiliates.
-
Pros:
- Guaranteed compatibility and easy installation for PS5.
- Optimized heatsink included.
- Excellent read speeds for seamless gameplay.
- Includes a PS Plus trial, adding value.
-
Cons:
- Slightly higher price due to official licensing.
- PS Plus trial terms and conditions apply.
-
User Impressions: The SN850P is a fan favorite for its “set it and forget it” nature. Users love the official licensing, the perfectly fitting heatsink, and the immediate performance boost. The included PS Plus trial is a pleasant bonus for many.
5. COLORFUL PS5 SSD 2TB NVMe, M.2 SSD 2TB, 2280 Drive
The COLORFUL PS5 SSD 2TB offers ultimate performance for gamers and professionals alike. Leveraging a PCIe Gen4 x4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology, this drive boasts blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds. Engineered to be fully compatible with PS5 and gaming PCs, it’s designed to drastically reduce loading times and enhance gameplay responsiveness. Its advanced thermal management, featuring a specialized graphite-coated sticker, ensures consistent performance even during extended, resource-intensive tasks.
-
Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4 x4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology.
- Blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds of 7400/6600 MB/s.
- Gaming-optimized, fully compatible with PS5 and gaming PCs.
- Advanced thermal management with a graphite-coated sticker to dissipate heat.
- Universal M.2 2280 form factor for seamless integration.
-
Pros:
- Excellent read/write speeds for gaming and productivity.
- Effective passive thermal management.
- Broad compatibility with various systems.
- NVMe 2.0 technology for future enhancements.
-
Cons:
- Passive thermal solution might be less effective than a dedicated heatsink for very prolonged extreme loads, though generally sufficient.
- Less recognized brand compared to giants like Samsung or WD.
-
User Impressions: Users report excellent performance for the price, noting significant improvements in game loading and file transfers. The graphite sticker is appreciated for its low-profile cooling solution.
6. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD is a solid contender that comes prepared for your PS5 with an included, uninstalled heatsink and even installation tools. This PCIe Gen4x4 drive delivers high speeds, cutting down on game delays and operating system load times. What truly makes it stand out is its commitment to quality, undergoing rigorous testing for stability and long service life. If you’re searching for a comprehensive package that simplifies the upgrade process for the SanDisk best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 alternatives, this MOVE SPEED drive is a great option.
-
Key Features:
- NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 interface with read/write speeds up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s.
- Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptops, and PCs.
- High-quality 3D Nand flash memory and Maxio MAP1602 controller.
- Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink and an additional uninstalled heatsink, screws, and screwdriver included.
- Rigorously tested for stability and long service life.
-
Pros:
- High-speed performance, 2x faster than PCIe 3.0.
- Comes with an uninstalled heatsink and installation tools, a complete package.
- Rigorous quality testing for reliability.
- Excellent value for money.
-
Cons:
- Heatsink requires manual installation.
- Brand might be less familiar to some users.
-
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the all-in-one package, finding the installation straightforward thanks to the included tools. The performance boost is consistently noted, and the cooling solution effectively manages temperatures.
7. WD_BLACK SN7100 1TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
While our focus is on the SanDisk best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5, we’re including the 1TB version of the WD_BLACK SN7100 because it shares the same high-performance DNA as its larger sibling. If you find the 2TB version a bit much for your current budget or needs but still want SanDisk-powered excellence, this 1TB option delivers similar blazing speeds (up to 7,250MB/s read) and power efficiency. It’s an ideal choice for expanding your PS5 storage with a reliable and fast drive, just with less overall capacity.
-
Key Features:
- High-octane gaming performance with speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
- Purpose-built with a PCIe Gen4 interface and SanDisk’s next-generation TLC 3D NAND.
- Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- Compatible with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for optimization.
- Manufactured by SanDisk Technologies, Inc. or its affiliates.
-
Pros:
- Excellent read/write speeds matching the 2TB model.
- Energy-efficient design.
- Backed by SanDisk’s reliable technology.
- More budget-friendly than the 2TB option for similar performance.
-
Cons:
- Half the storage capacity of the 2TB options.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 use.
-
User Impressions: Users value this drive for its consistent high performance and reliability, mirroring the feedback for the 2TB version. It’s often chosen by those who need a significant boost in speed and storage but are comfortable with a 1TB capacity.
8. WD Blue SN5100 1TB NVMe SSD – M.2 2280, PCIe Gen 4.0
The WD Blue SN5100 1TB NVMe SSD, while also a 1TB option and not explicitly a 2TB, is another fantastic SanDisk-powered drive that demonstrates impressive PCIe Gen 4.0 speeds. Ideal for accelerating AI-enabled workflows and general productivity, it also shines in gaming scenarios on the PS5. Its inclusion of SanDisk 3D CBA NAND technology and nCache 4.0 ensures rapid file transfers and responsive performance. If you’re exploring the broader range of high-quality, SanDisk-affiliated drives that fit the PS5’s requirements, the SN5100 offers robust performance.
-
Key Features:
- PCIe Gen 4.0 speeds up to 7,100 MB/s read (1TB-2TB models).
- Utilizes SanDisk 3D CBA NAND technology.
- Features SanDisk nCache 4.0 technology for blistering file copy speeds.
- Comes with Acronis True Image for SanDisk data migration software (for PC use).
- Manufactured by SanDisk Technologies, Inc. or its affiliates.
-
Pros:
- Fast PCIe Gen 4.0 performance.
- Reliable SanDisk technology and NAND.
- Good for general use and gaming.
- Backed by a 5-year limited warranty.
-
Cons:
- 1TB capacity, not 2TB.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5.
- Marketing focuses more on productivity than gaming compared to WD_BLACK.
-
User Impressions: Users find the SN5100 to be a highly dependable and speedy drive for everyday tasks and gaming. The consistent performance and the reassurance of SanDisk’s quality make it a solid choice, even if it’s not branded for “gaming” specifically.
9. SIX NVME M.2 SSD PCIe 4.0-2TB m.2 2280 ssd
Unleash upgraded power with the SIX X7400 Pro NVMe M.2 SSD. This 2TB drive is designed for immersive gameplay and heavy computing, accentuating ferocious performance with read speeds up to 7400MB/s. It’s built for seamless compatibility with your PS5, laptop, or desktop, making it a versatile and powerful storage expansion. What’s more, SIX makes installation easy by including all necessary tools like screws, screwdrivers, and even a heatsink in the package, setting it apart as a convenient choice for your SanDisk best 2TB M.2 SSD for PS5 alternatives search.
-
Key Features:
- PCIe Gen4x4 High-Speed Interface with up to 7400MB/s read speeds.
- Accentuated performance for heavy computing and immersive gameplay.
- Compatibility ready for laptop, desktop, or PS5 storage expansion.
- Purpose-built for uninterrupted gameplay and short load times.
- Includes installation tools: screw, screwdrivers, and heatsink.
-
Pros:
- Very high read speeds, ideal for PS5.
- Comprehensive package with heatsink and tools.
- Strong performance for both gaming and productivity.
- 5-year limited warranty.
-
Cons:
- Brand may be less recognized than established names.
- Specific write speeds not as prominently featured.
-
User Impressions: Reviewers are often pleasantly surprised by the performance of the SIX X7400 Pro, especially given its competitive pricing. The inclusion of installation accessories is a frequent highlight, simplifying the upgrade process for many.
10. Crucial P310 2280 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe Gaming PS5 SSD
The Crucial P310 2280 2TB SSD is positioned as a great option for casual gamers and home users looking for a spacious and compatible PCIe Gen4 NVMe drive for their PS5. Delivering up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds, it offers quicker game load times and smooth multitasking, significantly improving overall system responsiveness. Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control from trusted Micron quality, it ensures reliable Gen4 performance.
-
Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 performance with up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 2TB capacity for AAA games, apps, and media.
- Broad compatibility with desktops, laptops, and PlayStation 5.
- Backward compatible with Gen3 systems.
- Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable performance.
-
Pros:
- Solid Gen4 speeds for an enhanced gaming experience.
- Broad compatibility, including PS5.
- Trusted Micron quality and reliability.
- Good value for a 2TB Gen4 SSD.
-
Cons:
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5.
- Might not reach the absolute top-tier speeds of premium drives.
-
User Impressions: Users find the Crucial P310 to be a reliable and straightforward upgrade for their PS5. They appreciate the noticeable speed improvement over the console’s internal storage and the ample space it provides, all backed by a reputable memory brand.
Frequently Asked Questions About PS5 SSDs
Q1: What exactly is an M.2 SSD and why do I need one for my PS5?
A1: An M.2 SSD (Solid State Drive) is a small, high-performance storage device that plugs directly into a dedicated slot on your motherboard or, in this case, your PS5. Unlike traditional hard drives, SSDs have no moving parts, making them incredibly fast and durable. You need one for your PS5 because the console’s internal storage is limited, and an M.2 SSD allows you to expand that storage significantly, giving you more space for games without sacrificing performance.
Q2: What are the minimum speed requirements for a PS5 SSD?
A2: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster. All the drives on our list meet or exceed this requirement, ensuring optimal performance for your PS5 games.
Q3: Do I need a heatsink for my PS5 SSD?
A3: Yes, absolutely! Sony explicitly states that an M.2 SSD for PS5 must have a heatsink for proper thermal management. Without one, your SSD can overheat during intensive gaming, leading to performance throttling and potentially damaging the drive. Some SSDs come with an integrated heatsink, while others require you to purchase and install one separately.
Q4: How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A4: Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is a relatively simple process that involves removing the console’s side cover, unscrewing the expansion slot cover, inserting the SSD (with heatsink), and securing it. The PS5 will then guide you through formatting the new drive. Sony provides clear instructions on their official support website.
Q5: Can I use any 2TB M.2 SSD with my PS5?
A5: No, not just any M.2 SSD will work. It must be an NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) M.2 SSD, PCIe Gen4 x4, with a capacity between 250GB and 8TB, and a sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or higher. Crucially, it must also have a heatsink. Always check the SSD’s specifications against Sony’s requirements.
Q6: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen3 and Gen4 for PS5?
A6: PCIe Gen4 offers double the bandwidth and speed of PCIe Gen3. The PS5 requires a PCIe Gen4 SSD to achieve the necessary read/write speeds for optimal game performance. While a Gen3 SSD might physically fit, it won’t meet the performance requirements and isn’t recommended for PS5 storage expansion.
Q7: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A7: No, installing a compatible M.2 SSD in your PS5 will not void your console’s warranty, as long as you follow Sony’s official installation guidelines and use an approved SSD.
Q8: How many games can a 2TB SSD hold?
A8: The number of games a 2TB SSD can hold varies greatly depending on the file size of each game. However, a 2TB SSD can typically store between 30 to over 50 large AAA titles (averaging 40-70GB per game) or even more smaller titles, providing significantly more space than the PS5’s internal storage.