Ever felt the pinch of limited storage on your PlayStation 5? With blockbuster games hogging hundreds of gigabytes, that built-in SSD fills up faster than you can say “next-gen graphics.” If you’re tired of deleting games just to make room for new ones, it’s time for an upgrade. A 2TB internal SSD for your PS5 isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for any serious gamer looking for lightning-fast load times and ample space.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into some of the best 2TB internal SSD options, focusing on those that deliver top-tier performance and reliability. We’ll cover everything from Crucial’s stellar offerings to other leading brands, helping you pick the perfect drive to supercharge your console. Let’s get your PS5 ready for a truly expansive gaming library!
Why Upgrade Your PS5 Storage?
Your PS5 comes with a speedy, but somewhat limited, 825GB internal SSD (with about 667GB usable). That’s barely enough for a handful of AAA titles these days. Adding an M.2 NVMe SSD offers several game-changing benefits:
- Massive Storage Expansion: A 2TB SSD can more than triple your usable storage, letting you keep dozens of games installed and ready to play.
- Blazing-Fast Load Times: While the PS5’s internal SSD is fast, a high-quality M.2 NVMe drive can match or even exceed its performance, ensuring minimal waiting and maximum playing.
- Seamless Gaming: Play PS5 games directly from the expanded storage without any performance hit.
- Future-Proofing: As games get larger and more demanding, extra storage becomes increasingly vital.
Key Considerations When Choosing a PS5 SSD
Before you jump in, here are a few critical factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the best 2TB internal SSD for your PS5:
- PCIe Gen4 Interface: The PS5 requires a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. Many drives now exceed this, offering even better performance.
- Form Factor: The SSD must be an M.2 2280 drive, which is the standard size for the PS5’s expansion slot.
- Heatsink: This is crucial! M.2 SSDs, especially high-performance Gen4 and Gen5 drives, generate significant heat. A heatsink is essential to prevent thermal throttling and maintain peak performance. Some SSDs come with one pre-installed, while others require a separate purchase.
- Capacity: We’re focusing on 2TB drives here, which is an excellent sweet spot for most gamers, balancing cost and capacity.
Our Top Picks: Crucial Best 2TB Internal SSD for PS5 and Beyond
Now, let’s dive into the reviews of our selected drives, including some of the Crucial best 2TB internal SSD for PS5 options, alongside other fantastic choices.
1. Crucial T500 2TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD with Heatsink
The Crucial T500 is a powerhouse designed specifically for serious gamers and content creators. Its lightning-fast Gen4 speeds ensure your games load quicker, textures render faster, and your system feels incredibly responsive. The included heatsink version makes it a breeze to install in your PS5, ready to handle the most demanding titles without breaking a sweat. If you’re looking for a performance boost that truly makes a difference, the T500 is a fantastic contender for the Crucial best 2TB internal SSD for PS5.
Key Features:
– LIGHTNING SPEEDS: Sequential reads/writes up to 7,400/7,000MB/s and random read/writes up to 1.18M/1.44M IOPs.
– PS5 READY: Heatsink version designed for easy installation in your PlayStation 5.
– ULTIMATE GAMING: Load games up to 16% faster with faster texture renders and less CPU utilization with DirectStorage.
– CONTENT CREATION: Up to 42% faster performance in content creation apps.
– ADOBE CREATIVE CLOUD: Includes one month of Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan.
Pros:
– Exceptional Gen4 performance, exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Pre-installed heatsink for hassle-free PS5 compatibility.
– Boosts game load times and texture rendering.
– Great for both gaming and heavy workloads.
Cons:
– Premium price point.
– Non-heatsink option requires separate heatsink purchase for PS5.
User Impressions:
Gamers are consistently impressed by the T500’s speed, noting a noticeable difference in game loading and overall system fluidity. The easy PS5 installation with the heatsink is a frequently praised convenience, making it a favorite for those looking for a direct upgrade.
2. Crucial P310 2280 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe Gaming PS5 SSD
The Crucial P310 aims to deliver solid PCIe 4.0 performance for casual gamers and everyday users without breaking the bank. While not as blistering fast as some of its high-end siblings, it offers a significant upgrade over Gen3 SSDs and meets the PS5’s minimum speed requirements. This 2TB drive provides ample space for your game library and ensures quicker bootups and smoother multitasking, representing a great value option for expanding your console’s storage.
Key Features:
– PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds.
– Spacious 2TB SSD: Ample room for AAA games, apps, and media.
– Broad Compatibility: Works with desktops, laptops, and PlayStation 5; backward compatible with Gen3.
– Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 for real-world tasks.
– Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
Pros:
– Excellent performance for its price point.
– Meets PS5 speed requirements.
– Reliable Micron quality.
– Good balance of speed and storage capacity.
Cons:
– Doesn’t come with a heatsink, which is essential for PS5.
– Not the absolute fastest Gen4 drive available.
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the P310 for its reliable performance and competitive price. Many highlight it as a cost-effective way to get into Gen4 speeds, though they advise factoring in the cost and installation of a separate heatsink for PS5 use.
3. Crucial P510 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD with Heatsink
Stepping into the future, the Crucial P510 Gen5 SSD offers staggering speeds that push the boundaries of what’s possible. With read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s, this drive dramatically reduces load times for games and applications. The included heatsink makes it a ready-to-install solution for your Gen5-compatible PC or PS5, striking an impressive balance between cutting-edge performance and affordability. It’s a prime choice if you’re looking for extreme speed and future-proofing.
Key Features:
– SERIOUS SPEED: Read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s.
– GEN5 COMPATIBILITY: Easy installation for Gen5 desktops and PlayStation 5 consoles.
– AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE: Exceptional balance of performance and price.
– MICRON QUALITY: Top-tier Micron performance you can trust.
– SEAMLESS UPGRADES: Included Acronis True Image for Crucial software for data migration.
Pros:
– Ultra-high Gen5 speeds, far exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Comes with a heatsink, making it PS5-ready.
– Great value for a Gen5 drive.
– Robust Micron reliability.
Cons:
– Gen5 speeds are overkill for PS5, which is Gen4.
– May run hotter than Gen4 drives, even with a heatsink.
User Impressions:
Early adopters rave about the P510’s incredible speeds and how it transforms system responsiveness. While its Gen5 capabilities are ahead of the PS5’s Gen4 slot, users still note its impressive performance on the console, appreciating the included heatsink and competitive pricing for a next-gen drive.
4. Crucial P5 Plus 2TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD Internal Gaming
The Crucial P5 Plus is a highly regarded Gen4 NVMe SSD, known for its excellent blend of performance, reliability, and value. While specific features for this listing were not provided, the P5 Plus series typically boasts impressive read and write speeds, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking a robust upgrade. It’s designed to accelerate game load times and deliver a smoother overall computing experience, making it a solid choice for a Crucial best 2TB internal SSD for PS5.
Key Features (General to P5 Plus series):
– Gen4 NVMe Performance: Expected speeds well above PS5 minimums.
– Advanced Controller Technology: Ensures consistent performance and reliability.
– Micron Advanced 3D NAND: High-quality flash memory for durability.
– Dynamic Write Acceleration: Boosts burst performance.
– Full Hardware-based Encryption: For data security.
Pros:
– Reliable Gen4 performance suitable for PS5.
– Reputable Crucial/Micron quality.
– Good value proposition for a high-performance drive.
Cons:
– Likely requires a separate heatsink for optimal PS5 use (if not explicitly stated as included).
– Might not reach the absolute top-tier speeds of newer Gen4 drives.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the P5 Plus for its consistent speed and reliability. It’s a popular choice for PS5 upgrades, with many noting its straightforward installation (with an aftermarket heatsink) and a significant improvement in game load times.
5. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a gaming-focused SSD that truly delivers. With insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, it’s designed to transform your PC or PS5 gaming experience, offering ridiculously short load times. The optional heatsink version is a game-changer for maintaining peak performance during intense sessions, ensuring you never miss a beat. Plus, with the WD_BLACK Dashboard, PC users can monitor drive health and customize RGB lighting.
Key Features:
– TRANSFORM YOUR PC: Speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for top-tier performance.
– MORE ROOM, MORE GAMES: 2TB capacity built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND.
– HEATSINK FOR THE WIN: Optional heatsink version to maintain peak performance.
– DO MORE WITH DASHBOARD: Monitor drive health, customize RGB (heatsink versions), and activate Game Mode 2.0 (Windows only).
– FUTURE-FORWARD FEATURES: Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
Pros:
– Extremely fast Gen4 speeds, perfect for PS5.
– Heatsink option ensures optimal thermal performance.
– Large capacity for extensive game libraries.
– Gaming-specific features for PC users.
Cons:
– Dashboard features are Windows-only.
– Premium price for top-tier performance.
User Impressions:
The SN850X receives widespread acclaim for its incredible speed and reliability. PS5 users particularly love the heatsink version for its easy installation and “set it and forget it” performance, reporting zero issues with demanding games.
6. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink is a titan in the world of Gen4 SSDs, representing the pinnacle of performance from the world’s #1 flash memory brand. Boasting blazing-fast read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, it’s a cheat code for any heavy computing task, especially gaming and video editing. The ultra-slim integrated heatsink is specifically designed for PS5 compatibility, ensuring stable temperatures and preventing performance drops, making it an elite choice for your console.
Key Features:
– BLAZING SPEED. COOL VICTORY: Near max Gen4 performance with integrated Heatsink for improved temperature control.
– REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: More than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO.
– THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S #1 FLASH MEMORY BRAND: Read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s.
– PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: 2TB capacity for gaming, video editing, data analysis.
– MADE w/ PS5 IN MIND: Ultra-slim Integrated Heatsink compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 standard.
Pros:
– Top-tier Gen4 speeds, pushing the limits of the interface.
– Integrated heatsink perfectly sized for PS5.
– Exceptional reliability and performance from Samsung.
– Ideal for demanding applications beyond gaming.
Cons:
– One of the most expensive options on the market.
– Overkill for casual users, but worth it for enthusiasts.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the 990 PRO’s unmatched performance and the peace of mind that comes with Samsung’s reputation. PS5 owners specifically love the perfectly fitted heatsink and the absolute lack of performance issues even under heavy load.
7. Crucial P510 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD, Up to 10,000 MB/s
This version of the Crucial P510 Gen5 SSD offers the same serious speed and future-proof performance as its heatsink-equipped counterpart, with read/write speeds soaring up to 11,000/9,500MB/s. It’s designed for Gen5 compatibility in laptops and desktops, providing an affordable entry into next-generation speeds. While it doesn’t come with a heatsink, its exceptional balance of performance and price still makes it an attractive choice for savvy buyers who prefer to select their own cooling solution or are installing it in a device with built-in M.2 cooling.
Key Features:
– SERIOUS SPEED: Reduced load times and enjoy read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s.
– GEN5 COMPATIBILITY: Easy installation and flexibility for Gen5 laptops and desktops.
– AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE: Exceptional balance of performance and price.
– MICRON QUALITY: Top-tier Micron performance you can trust.
– SEAMLESS UPGRADES: Included Acronis True Image for Crucial software for data migration.
Pros:
– Extreme Gen5 speeds, far exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Excellent value for a Gen5 drive.
– Robust Micron reliability.
– Acronis True Image software included for easy data migration.
Cons:
– Does not come with a heatsink, which is absolutely essential for PS5.
– Gen5 speeds are not fully utilized by the PS5’s Gen4 slot.
User Impressions:
Users are thrilled with the P510’s blistering speed and its surprisingly competitive price point for a Gen5 drive. Those using it for PS5 acknowledge the need to purchase and install a separate heatsink, but find the performance well worth the extra step.
8. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD is a compelling option designed with PS5 compatibility squarely in mind. Leveraging cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, it offers impressive read/write speeds up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s, ensuring lightning-fast game loading and file transfers. What truly sets it apart is the included 1mm graphene composite heatsink (plus an additional, uninstalled heatsink), which can cool the chip by up to 10 degrees, preventing slowdowns and guaranteeing stable performance during intense gaming.
Key Features:
– NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface: Up to 7450MB/s read and 6500MB/s write speeds.
– Compatible with PS5 & Large Capacity: M.2 2280 form factor, 2TB storage for up to 50 games.
– Premium Quality: High-quality 3D Nand flash and Maxio MAP1602 controller, rigorously tested.
– Plug and Play & Strongly Cooling: Built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink (plus uninstalled heatsink, screws, screwdriver included).
– What’s in the Box: SSD, heatsink, screws, screwdriver, user manual, 7×24 customer service.
Pros:
– Excellent Gen4 speeds, exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Comes with two heatsink options (one pre-applied graphene, one uninstalled).
– Rigorous testing ensures stability and longevity.
– All installation accessories included, making it truly plug-and-play for PS5.
– Strong customer support and warranty.
Cons:
– Newer brand compared to established names, so long-term reliability is less proven (though testing is thorough).
User Impressions:
Users are pleasantly surprised by the MOVE SPEED HB7450, often highlighting its incredible value. The inclusion of all necessary installation tools and dual heatsink options makes it a hassle-free PS5 upgrade, with many reporting impressive speeds and cool operation.
9. Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
The Crucial BX500 2TB is a reliable and affordable SATA 2.5-inch internal SSD, perfect for breathing new life into older laptops or desktops. It offers a substantial speed boost compared to traditional hard drives, improving boot-up times and overall system responsiveness. However, it is crucial to note that this drive is NOT compatible with the PlayStation 5. The PS5 requires an NVMe M.2 SSD, whereas the BX500 is a SATA 2.5-inch drive. While it’s an excellent value for PC upgrades, it simply won’t fit or function as an internal expansion for your PS5.
Key Features:
– Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
– 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
– Improves battery life (45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive).
– Micron 3D NAND technology.
– Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Very affordable 2TB storage.
– Significant upgrade over traditional HDDs for PCs.
– Energy-efficient.
– Reliable Micron quality.
Cons:
– NOT COMPATIBLE WITH PS5 (SATA vs. NVMe M.2 requirement).
– Much slower than NVMe Gen4 drives.
– 2.5-inch form factor, not M.2.
User Impressions:
PC users consistently praise the BX500 for its cost-effectiveness and noticeable performance improvement over older hard drives. However, it’s vital to reiterate that this is not the drive for PS5 expansion; its purpose lies elsewhere in PC upgrades.
10. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PS5 Consoles
If you want absolute peace of mind and seamless integration, the WD_BLACK SN850P is your go-to. This 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD is officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles, guaranteeing compatibility and an easy, worry-free installation. With read speeds up to 7,300MB/s, it leverages PCIe Gen 4 technology to deliver uninterrupted gameplay and incredibly short load times. The optimized heatsink is designed specifically for the PS5’s M.2 slot, making it the ultimate plug-and-play solution for expanding your console’s storage.
Key Features:
– Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles.
– 2TB capacity: Store up to 50 games (based on 36GB avg.).
– Optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console.
– Play directly from the drive with tested and approved storage.
– Push PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
– Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
Pros:
– 100% guaranteed PS5 compatibility with official licensing.
– Optimized heatsink for perfect fit and thermal performance.
– Excellent Gen4 speeds for seamless gameplay.
– Generous 2TB capacity.
– PlayStation Plus trial is a nice bonus.
Cons:
– Premium price due to official licensing.
– Performance is similar to non-licensed top-tier Gen4 drives, but costs more.
User Impressions:
PS5 owners absolutely love the SN850P for its “install and forget” nature. The official licensing and perfectly designed heatsink provide unparalleled confidence, making it a highly recommended choice for those who prioritize ease of use and guaranteed compatibility.
How to Install an M.2 SSD in Your PS5
Upgrading your PS5’s storage might sound daunting, but Sony has made the process surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a quick overview:
- Power Down & Unplug: Turn off your PS5 completely and disconnect all cables.
- Remove the Base: Lay your PS5 on its side and remove the stand.
- Slide Off the Side Cover: Gently slide the top-left side cover (the one without the disc drive bump) off. You’ll need to lift and pull.
- Locate the Expansion Slot: You’ll see a rectangular metal cover secured by a screw. Unscrew it.
- Install the SSD: Inside, you’ll find the M.2 expansion slot. Remove the screw and spacer, insert your M.2 SSD (at a slight angle), push it down, and then secure it with the spacer and screw in the appropriate slot (usually 2280).
- Reassemble: Replace the metal cover, the side panel, and the base.
- Format: Power on your PS5. It will automatically detect the new SSD and prompt you to format it. Follow the on-screen instructions.
And that’s it! You’re ready to download more games than ever before.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do I really need a 2TB SSD for my PS5?
A1: While not strictly “needed” for functionality, a 2TB SSD provides a significant boost to your PS5’s storage, allowing you to install many more AAA games without constantly deleting and redownloading titles. It greatly enhances your gaming convenience and library size.
Q2: What is the minimum speed requirement for a PS5 SSD?
A2: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. Most modern Gen4 drives exceed this, offering even better performance.
Q3: Is a heatsink necessary for a PS5 SSD?
A3: Absolutely! High-performance M.2 NVMe SSDs generate a lot of heat. A heatsink is crucial to dissipate this heat, prevent thermal throttling, and ensure your SSD maintains its peak performance over long gaming sessions.
Q4: Can I use any M.2 SSD in my PS5?
A4: No. It must be an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD with read speeds of 5,500 MB/s or higher, and it needs to have an integrated or attached heatsink. The physical size (2280) is also important.
Q5: Will installing an SSD void my PS5 warranty?
A5: No, Sony officially supports M.2 SSD expansion, so installing one correctly will not void your warranty. Just make sure to follow the official installation guide.
Q6: Can I play PS4 games from the M.2 SSD?
A6: Yes, you can install and play both PS4 and PS5 games directly from your M.2 expansion SSD. Both will benefit from faster load times.
Q7: How much space do PS5 games typically take up?
A7: PS5 games vary greatly, but many new AAA titles can range from 50GB to well over 150GB. A 2TB SSD gives you plenty of headroom for dozens of these large games.
Q8: Are Crucial SSDs good for PS5?
A8: Yes, Crucial offers several excellent options, including the Crucial best 2TB internal SSD for PS5 models like the T500 and P5 Plus, which meet and often exceed Sony’s requirements, delivering reliable and fast performance.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 5 with a high-quality 2TB internal SSD is one of the best investments you can make for your gaming experience. It eliminates the frustration of constantly managing storage, ushers in lightning-fast load times, and lets you immerse yourself fully in your favorite titles.
Whether you opt for the raw power of the Samsung 990 PRO, the officially licensed ease of the WD_BLACK SN850P, or a fantastic all-rounder like the Crucial best 2TB internal SSD for PS5 (like the T500), you’re set for a significant upgrade. Just remember to prioritize speed, a proper heatsink, and guaranteed compatibility, and you’ll be enjoying an expanded and enhanced gaming library in no time! Happy gaming!