Got a PlayStation 5 and constantly running out of space for all those incredible games? You’re not alone! While the PS5 is a gaming powerhouse, its internal storage can fill up surprisingly fast. Thankfully, Sony made it easy to expand your storage with an M.2 NVMe SSD, and Sabrent has consistently delivered some of the best options on the market. But with so many choices, how do you pick the Sabrent best SSD for PS5 that fits your needs?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting, diving deep into Sabrent’s lineup and even some top competitors, to bring you a comprehensive guide. We’ll break down the top 10 SSDs that’ll not only give you ample room for your ever-growing game library but also ensure lightning-fast load times and seamless gameplay. Get ready to level up your PS5 experience!
Why an NVMe SSD is a Game-Changer for Your PS5
The PlayStation 5 requires a specific type of storage upgrade: a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a minimum read speed of 5500MB/s. Why so specific? Because the PS5’s internal SSD is incredibly fast, and any expansion needs to keep up to prevent bottlenecks. Adding an external drive via USB won’t cut it for playing PS5 games directly; it’s strictly for PS4 titles or storing PS5 games (which then need to be moved back to internal or M.2 storage to play).
More importantly, proper thermal management is crucial. These high-speed SSDs can get hot, so a good heatsink is non-negotiable to prevent performance throttling and ensure your drive lasts. Sabrent understands these requirements perfectly, offering a range of drives and accessories specifically designed for your PS5 console storage expansion.
The 10 Best Sabrent SSDs and Alternatives for PS5
Let’s dive into the reviews of the top contenders that will transform your PS5’s storage capabilities.
1. SABRENT 2TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (SSD Only)
This 2TB Rocket 4 Plus is a pure speed demon, designed for users who demand top-tier performance. It’s an excellent choice for expanding your PS5 storage, offering impressive read and write speeds that easily exceed Sony’s recommendations. Just remember, this specific model is the SSD only, so you’ll need to pair it with a compatible heatsink for optimal thermal management within your PS5. It’s a fantastic foundation for a high-performance upgrade.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-Fast Performance: Up to 7100MB/s read, 6600MB/s write speeds with PCIe Gen4.
- Next-Gen NVMe Interface: NVMe 1.4 and PCIe Gen4 x4 for max throughput.
- High-Endurance TLC NAND: Premium 3D TLC NAND for long-lasting performance.
- Advanced Thermal Management: Requires heatsink for optimal Gen4 performance in PS5.
- Easy Cloning & Sector Control: Includes Acronis True Image for SABRENT utility.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speeds, well above PS5 requirements.
- High endurance and stability.
- Ideal for demanding games and applications.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 installation.
- Premium price point.
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User Impressions: Gamers love the raw speed and reliability of this drive, noting a significant reduction in load times. The main point of feedback is the reminder that a separate heatsink is essential for PS5 use, which isn’t always clear to new buyers.
- See it on Amazon here
2. SABRENT Rocket 4 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280 (SSD Only)
If you’re looking for a solid upgrade without breaking the bank or needing a massive game library, the Sabrent Rocket 4 1TB is a fantastic starting point. This drive offers impressive PCIe Gen4 speeds that easily meet the PS5’s requirements, ensuring your games load quickly and run smoothly. It’s a more budget-friendly option compared to its “Plus” sibling, but still delivers excellent performance, making it a strong contender for the Sabrent best SSD for PS5 for many users. Like the Rocket 4 Plus above, it requires a separate heatsink for PS5 installation.
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Key Features:
- Blazing Gen4 Speed: Up to 7450MB/s read, 6100MB/s write speeds.
- High IOPS, Efficient Design: Up to 850K/800K random IOPS with low heat/power.
- Broad System Compatibility: Single-sided M.2 2280 form factor.
- Made for Pros and Gamers: Ideal for high-performance systems.
- Trusted Sabrent Support: Includes firmware updates and technical help.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of price and performance.
- Exceeds PS5 speed requirements.
- Efficient operation with low heat.
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Cons:
- 1TB might still feel limited for some larger game collections.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the Rocket 4’s consistent performance and reliability. It’s frequently praised as a great value proposition for those who don’t need the absolute fastest drive but want a significant upgrade.
- See it on Amazon here
3. SABRENT M.2 NVMe PS5 Heatsink (SB-PSHS)
This isn’t an SSD itself, but it’s an absolutely crucial accessory if you’re buying a standalone Sabrent NVMe SSD for your PS5. The Sabrent M.2 NVMe PS5 Heatsink is specifically engineered to replace the PS5’s native M.2 slot cover, maximizing cooling efficiency by utilizing the console’s internal fan. Its “Sandwich Design” ensures even pressure and superior heat transfer, making it a must-have for any high-performance Gen4 SSD to prevent thermal throttling and maintain optimal speed.
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Key Features:
- DESIGNED FOR THE PS5 CONSOLE: Perfect fit for the SSD expansion slot.
- REVOLUTIONARY COOLING: High-Quality CNC’d aluminum for max cooling.
- UPGRADE YOUR CONSOLE!: Replaces native PS5 cover for better cooling using the native fan.
- INDUSTRIAL QUALITY: Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” ensures even pressure.
- CONVENIENCE: Comes with installation guide, screws, and thermal tape.
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Pros:
- Specifically designed for the PS5, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal cooling.
- Superior cooling performance compared to generic heatsinks.
- Easy installation with included accessories.
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Cons:
- An additional purchase, not included with all Sabrent SSDs.
- Requires opening your PS5.
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User Impressions: Owners consistently laud this heatsink for its effective cooling and simple installation. Many note a noticeable difference in drive temperatures and appreciate the peace of mind it provides for their expensive SSDs.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SABRENT Rocket 4 4TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280 (SSD Only)
For the serious gamer or content creator with an ever-expanding game library, the Sabrent Rocket 4 4TB offers massive storage capacity coupled with blistering PCIe Gen4 speeds. This drive lets you download and store an enormous amount of PS5 titles without constantly worrying about deleting games. It maintains the Rocket 4 line’s reputation for reliability and performance, but again, for PS5 use, you absolutely need to pair this fantastic drive with a dedicated heatsink to manage its thermal output effectively.
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Key Features:
- Massive Gen4 Performance: Up to 7450MB/s read, 6400MB/s write speeds.
- Built for Speed and Stability: Up to 1000K/950K random IOPS with consistent low heat.
- Broad Compatibility: Slim, single-sided M.2 2280 design.
- For Demanding Users: Ideal for gamers, media editors, and power users.
- Sabrent Reliability & Support: Premium hardware with OS compatibility.
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Pros:
- Huge 4TB capacity for extensive game collections.
- Excellent speeds meeting and exceeding PS5 requirements.
- Reliable performance under heavy loads.
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Cons:
- Premium price for such large capacity.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5.
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User Impressions: This 4TB Rocket 4 is a dream come true for those who hate uninstalling games. Users report seamless performance and appreciate the sheer freedom of having so much space. The need for a separate heatsink is the common refrain, ensuring optimal operation.
- See it on Amazon here
5. SABRENT Rocket 4 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280 (SSD Only)
Hitting the sweet spot for many gamers, the Sabrent Rocket 4 2TB offers a substantial storage upgrade without going to the absolute top of the capacity range. It delivers the same impressive Gen4 speeds as its 1TB and 4TB siblings, ensuring super-fast loading and smooth gameplay on your PS5. This drive is a perfect balance of performance and capacity for most users, providing ample space for dozens of AAA titles. As with other standalone Sabrent SSDs, remember to grab a dedicated heatsink for proper PS5 integration.
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Key Features:
- Next-Gen Gen4 Performance: Up to 7450MB/s read, 6400MB/s write speeds.
- High IOPS, Low Heat: Up to 1000K/950K random IOPS with minimal thermal output.
- Universal Compatibility: Compatible with desktops, laptops, and PS5 (with heatsink).
- Power for Pros and Gamers: Fast, reliable storage for intensive applications.
- Sabrent Quality and Support: Built with premium components and broad OS support.
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Pros:
- Great balance of capacity and performance for most gamers.
- Exceeds PS5 speed requirements comfortably.
- Solid reliability expected from Sabrent.
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Cons:
- Still requires a separate heatsink for PS5 installation.
- Can be a significant investment.
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User Impressions: Many consider this 2TB Rocket 4 the ideal capacity for their PS5, offering plenty of space for current and future titles. The consistent high speeds and reliable performance are frequently highlighted, with users emphasizing the importance of adding a good heatsink.
- See it on Amazon here
6. SABRENT 2TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (With PS5 Heatsink)
Now, this is what we’re talking about for a complete PS5 upgrade! This Sabrent 2TB Rocket 4 Plus comes bundled with Sabrent’s revolutionary PS5 heatsink, making it a truly plug-and-play solution (well, as much as installing an M.2 SSD can be). You get the blazing-fast performance of the Rocket 4 Plus – far exceeding the PS5’s speed requirements – combined with the custom-designed cooling solution that replaces the console’s SSD bay cover. This package truly makes it a contender for the Sabrent best SSD for PS5 without any guesswork on thermal management.
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Key Features:
- DESIGNED AND COMPATIBLE FOR THE CONSOLE: Engineered for perfect fit and easy install.
- WORLDS FASTEST SSD: Exceeds PS5’s 5500MB/s minimum with 7100MB/s read, 6600MB/s write.
- REVOLUTIONARY COOLING: High-Quality CNC’d aluminum heatsink for max performance.
- UPGRADE YOUR CONSOLE!: Replaces native console cover for better cooling with native fan.
- INDUSTRIAL QUALITY: Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” for even heat transfer.
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Pros:
- Complete solution with an integrated, custom-designed PS5 heatsink.
- Blazing fast speeds, perfect for demanding PS5 games.
- Excellent thermal management out of the box.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to bundled heatsink.
- Installation still requires opening the console.
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User Impressions: This bundle is highly praised for its convenience and effectiveness. Gamers love that they don’t have to research compatible heatsinks separately, and the performance is consistently reported as top-notch, with no thermal throttling issues.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Lexar 1TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 (Competitor)
While this article focuses on Sabrent, it’s always good to know the competition! The Lexar NM790 1TB SSD with an integrated heatsink is a fantastic alternative for PS5 users. It offers impressive PCIe Gen4 performance that easily meets the PS5’s demands, and the included heatsink makes it a convenient, ready-to-install option. Lexar has a strong reputation in memory products, and this drive delivers excellent bang for your buck, making it a solid choice if you’re exploring beyond Sabrent.
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Key Features:
- Exceptional Performance: Up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write.
- Integrated Heatsink: Keeps your rig cool for better performance.
- Power Efficient: Up to 40% less power consumption than some DRAM cache-enabled SSDs.
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0: Smooth transfer speed and seamless performance.
- Compatible with PlayStation 5: Ready for your console.
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Pros:
- Excellent performance with a factory-integrated heatsink.
- Good value for a 1TB Gen4 SSD with cooling.
- Lower power consumption is a bonus.
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Cons:
- Only 1TB capacity available in this configuration (for this listing).
- Not a Sabrent product (if you’re strictly loyal!).
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User Impressions: Users report that the Lexar NM790 performs admirably in the PS5, delivering fast load times and stable performance. The included heatsink is a big plus for ease of installation.
- See it on Amazon here
8. SABRENT 8TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (SSD Only)
If you truly want to expand your PS5’s storage to the absolute maximum, the Sabrent 8TB Rocket 4 Plus is an unparalleled choice. This colossal drive provides enough space for virtually every game you could ever want, along with room for future releases. It boasts the same top-tier performance as other Rocket 4 Plus models, ensuring zero compromise on speed. This is an investment in ultimate convenience and capacity, but like its smaller standalone siblings, you must purchase and install a separate heatsink, such as Sabrent’s custom PS5 heatsink (Product 3), for proper thermal management.
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Key Features:
- NVMe M.2 PCIe Gen4 x4 Interface: PCIe 4.0 Compliant / NVMe 1.3 Compliant.
- Compatible with PS5: (with required heatsink).
- Power Management Support: APST / ASPM / L1.2.
- Advanced Features: Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code.
- FREE Sabrent Acronis True Image: For easy cloning and custom sector sizing.
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Pros:
- Unprecedented 8TB capacity for limitless game storage.
- Blazing-fast Rocket 4 Plus performance.
- Robust Sabrent reliability and features.
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Cons:
- Very high price point, a significant investment.
- Requires a separate heatsink for PS5 operation.
- Potentially overkill for many users.
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User Impressions: While a niche product due to its price, users who opt for the 8TB Rocket 4 Plus are overwhelmingly satisfied with the sheer amount of storage it provides, effectively ending all storage concerns. They confirm it performs as expected once a suitable heatsink is added.
- See it on Amazon here
9. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed (Competitor)
For those seeking ultimate peace of mind, the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P is an officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles. This means it’s been tested and approved by Sony themselves, guaranteeing compatibility and performance. It comes with a brand-new, optimized heatsink specifically designed for the PS5, making installation worry-free. With read speeds up to 7,300MB/s, it’s a powerhouse that ensures seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times.
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Key Features:
- Officially Licensed: M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, ensuring compatibility.
- Massive Capacity: 2TB to store up to 100 games (4TB model mentioned, this is 2TB).
- Optimized Heatsink: Designed especially for the PS5 for easy, worry-free installation.
- Play Directly from Drive: No need to transfer or delete games.
- Push PCIe Gen 4 Technology: Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s.
- Bonus: 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe included.
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Pros:
- Official PlayStation licensing ensures perfect compatibility and peace of mind.
- Comes with an optimized, integrated heatsink for PS5.
- Excellent performance with blazing-fast speeds.
- Bonus PlayStation Plus trial is a nice perk.
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Cons:
- Generally pricier due to official licensing.
- Not a Sabrent product (if brand loyalty is key).
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User Impressions: The SN850P is highly regarded for its “just works” nature. Users love the hassle-free installation and the confidence that comes with an officially licensed product. Performance is consistently praised as excellent, matching the PS5’s internal drive.
- See it on Amazon here
10. SABRENT 4TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 (With PS5 Heatsink)
If you want an extensive game library without compromising on cooling or performance, the Sabrent 4TB Rocket 4 Plus with its integrated PS5 heatsink is a truly premium offering. This bundle gives you a massive 4TB of storage, plenty for hundreds of games, combined with the extreme speeds of the Rocket 4 Plus. The custom-designed Sabrent heatsink ensures that even with such a large drive, your PS5 will remain cool and perform optimally, making it one of the strongest contenders for the Sabrent best SSD for PS5 for power users.
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Key Features:
- DESIGNED AND COMPATIBLE FOR THE CONSOLE: Engineered for perfect fit and easy install.
- WORLDS FASTEST SSD: Exceeds PS5’s 5500MB/s minimum with 7100MB/s read, 6600MB/s write.
- REVOLUTIONARY COOLING: High-Quality CNC’d aluminum heatsink for max performance.
- UPGRADE YOUR CONSOLE!: Replaces native console cover for better cooling with native fan.
- INDUSTRIAL QUALITY: Sabrent’s “Sandwich Design” for even heat transfer.
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Pros:
- Massive 4TB capacity combined with top-tier Rocket 4 Plus speeds.
- Comes with Sabrent’s custom PS5 heatsink for optimal cooling.
- A complete, high-end solution for PS5 storage expansion.
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Cons:
- Premium price point, representing a significant investment.
- Installation still involves opening the console.
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User Impressions: For those who choose this high-capacity, integrated solution, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Users appreciate the freedom of not having to manage storage and the consistent, top-tier performance without any thermal issues, calling it the ultimate PS5 upgrade.
- See it on Amazon here
What to Look For When Choosing Your PS5 SSD
When deciding on the Sabrent best SSD for PS5 (or any brand, for that matter), keep these factors in mind:
- Speed: Ensure the drive meets or exceeds Sony’s requirement of 5500MB/s read speed. All Sabrent Rocket 4 and Rocket 4 Plus drives easily hit this mark.
- Capacity: How much space do you need? 1TB is a good start, 2TB is a popular sweet spot, and 4TB or 8TB are for the truly insatiable game collectors.
- Heatsink: This is non-negotiable! The PS5 requires a heatsink. Either buy an SSD with an integrated heatsink (like the bundled Sabrent models, Lexar, or WD_BLACK) or purchase a standalone one (like the Sabrent SB-PSHS) if you’re getting a bare SSD.
- Compatibility: While almost all M.2 2280 Gen4 NVMe SSDs should work, officially licensed drives (like WD_BLACK) offer extra assurance. Sabrent drives with their custom heatsinks are also specifically designed for the PS5.
- Budget: SSDs range widely in price, especially with higher capacities. Balance your desired storage with what you’re willing to spend.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do I really need a heatsink for my PS5 SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely! High-performance PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs generate a lot of heat. A heatsink is crucial for proper thermal management to prevent the drive from overheating, which can lead to performance throttling and potentially shorten its lifespan. Sony explicitly states that a heatsink is required.
Q2: What read speed does my PS5 SSD need to have?
A: Sony recommends a minimum sequential read speed of 5500MB/s for M.2 SSDs used in the PS5. All the Sabrent drives featured here comfortably exceed this requirement, ensuring optimal performance.
Q3: Can I use any M.2 NVMe SSD for my PS5?
A: No, not just any. It must be a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD. It also needs to be of the 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110 form factor, with 2280 being the most common. And, as mentioned, it must have a heatsink attached.
Q4: Is it difficult to install an M.2 SSD in the PS5?
A: The installation process is relatively straightforward. It involves opening your PS5’s side panel, unscrewing a cover, inserting the SSD, securing it, and then reassembling. Sony provides clear instructions, and many online guides and videos can walk you through it. If you’re uncomfortable, consider professional help.
Q5: Can I play PS5 games directly from the expanded M.2 SSD?
A: Yes! That’s the main benefit. Once installed and formatted, the M.2 SSD functions just like your PS5’s internal storage, allowing you to install and play PS5 games directly from it with the same lightning-fast load times.
Q6: What capacity SSD should I get for my PS5?
A: This depends on your gaming habits.
– 1TB: Good for a decent selection of games, but you might still manage space.
– 2TB: The sweet spot for most gamers, offering plenty of room for current and future AAA titles.
– 4TB+: For hardcore collectors who want to download everything without ever worrying about storage.
Q7: Why choose Sabrent over other brands?
A: Sabrent is highly regarded for producing reliable, high-performance NVMe SSDs that consistently meet and often exceed performance benchmarks. They also offer custom-designed heatsinks specifically for the PS5, simplifying the upgrade process for console users. Their “Rocket” series is a proven favorite in the gaming community.
Conclusion
Expanding your PS5’s storage with a high-quality NVMe SSD is one of the best upgrades you can make for your gaming experience. Sabrent stands out as a top contender, offering a diverse range of drives from the blazing-fast Rocket 4 Plus to the versatile Rocket 4, many of which can be bundled with their custom PS5 heatsink for a seamless installation.
Whether you’re after pure speed, massive capacity, or a perfect balance of both, there’s a Sabrent best SSD for PS5 waiting for you. By choosing wisely and ensuring you have that all-important heatsink, you’ll be enjoying faster load times, more games, and an even smoother PlayStation 5 experience. Happy gaming!