Is your PlayStation 5 crying out for more storage? You’re not alone! With massive game file sizes, that internal 825GB SSD fills up faster than you can say “Spider-Man 2.” Luckily, Sony made it super easy to expand your storage by adding an M.2 NVMe SSD. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best M.2 SSD for PS5?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the legwork to bring you a comprehensive guide to the top M.2 SSDs that will not only give you tons of extra space but also deliver blazing-fast load times, keeping your gaming experience silky smooth. We’ll walk you through what makes each drive special, so you can pick the perfect one to get your PS5 running at its absolute peak.
What Makes an M.2 SSD Great for PS5?
Before we dive into the reviews, let’s quickly touch on what you need to look for. For your PS5, you’ll want an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD with read speeds of at least 5,500 MB/s. A heatsink is also crucial to prevent thermal throttling and ensure consistent performance, especially during long gaming sessions. Good news: many of our top picks come with one pre-installed!
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – our picks for the best M.2 SSD for PS5!
1. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a true powerhouse built for serious gamers. This SSD takes performance to the next level with incredible read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, meaning you’ll spend less time staring at loading screens and more time in the action. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking to transform your PS5’s storage and speed, offering a seamless and incredibly responsive gaming experience. Plus, with capacities up to 8TB, you’ll have ample room for your entire game library.
Key Features:
– Insane speeds up to 7,300 MB/s read
– Capacities up to 8TB built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND
– Optional heatsink version available for peak performance
– Downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) for monitoring and customization
– Future-forward features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM)
Pros:
– Blazing-fast speeds for minimal load times
– Excellent reliability and endurance
– Large capacity options
– Heatsink option ensures stable performance
– Trusted brand in gaming storage
Cons:
– Heatsink is optional, ensure you pick the right version for PS5
– Dashboard software is Windows-only
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the SN850X for its remarkable speed and reliability, noting how it drastically cuts down game loading times. Many find it to be a game-changer for their PS5 setup, providing ample space and buttery-smooth gameplay.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PlayStation 5 Consoles
If you want absolute peace of mind, the WD_BLACK SN850P is your go-to. This drive is officially licensed by Sony for PlayStation 5 consoles, meaning it’s guaranteed to work flawlessly right out of the box. It features an optimized heatsink specifically designed for the PS5, making installation a breeze and ensuring consistent, high-performance gameplay directly from the drive. It’s truly one of the best M.2 SSD for PS5 options due to its direct compatibility.
Key Features:
– Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles
– Capacities from 1TB to 4TB (4TB model stores up to 100 games)
– Optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5
– Play directly from the drive with tested and approved storage
– Read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s
– Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe
Pros:
– Guaranteed compatibility with PS5
– Pre-installed, perfectly sized heatsink
– Exceptional read speeds
– Easy, worry-free installation
– Additional PS Plus trial is a nice bonus
Cons:
– May be slightly pricier due to official licensing
– PS Plus trial is for new subscribers only
User Impressions: PS5 owners rave about the SN850P’s plug-and-play simplicity and fantastic performance. The official licensing gives users great confidence, and the pre-installed heatsink is frequently highlighted as a major convenience.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2
The Lexar NM790 with heatsink offers impressive performance and efficiency without breaking the bank. It boasts exceptional speeds up to 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write, making it twice as fast as many PCIe Gen 3 SSDs. What’s more, it’s designed with a focus on power efficiency, consuming up to 40% less power than other DRAM cache-enabled Gen 4 SSDs. This is a solid contender for anyone seeking a powerful yet energy-conscious PS5 storage solution.
Key Features:
– Exceptional performance: up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– Designed with a heatsink for optimal cooling
– Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
– Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 for smooth transfers
– Compatible with PlayStation 5
– Five-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Very competitive speeds
– Excellent power efficiency
– Heatsink included for PS5 compatibility
– Strong 5-year warranty
– Good value for performance
Cons:
– Might not be as well-known as some competitor brands
– Lower write speeds compared to some top-tier drives
User Impressions: Users are pleasantly surprised by the NM790’s performance, especially considering its price point. The included heatsink and easy PS5 compatibility are frequently praised, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
4. SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen4 M.2
The Samsung 990 PRO with heatsink is an absolute beast, delivering blazing-fast speeds that truly push the limits of PCIe 4.0. As Samsung is a world leader in flash memory, you can expect top-tier quality and performance. With read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, it’s perfect for heavy computing, video editing, and, of course, lightning-fast game loading on your PS5. The ultra-slim integrated heatsink is also specifically designed with the PS5 in mind, ensuring optimal temperature control.
Key Features:
– Blazing-fast read/write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s
– Over 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO
– Ultra-slim integrated heatsink designed for PS5 compatibility
– Capacities from 1TB to 4TB
– From the world’s #1 flash memory brand
Pros:
– One of the fastest Gen4 SSDs on the market
– Exceptional performance for demanding tasks and gaming
– High endurance and reliability from a trusted brand
– Integrated heatsink fits perfectly in PS5
– Large capacity options
Cons:
– Premium price point
– Some users might find the heatsink slightly fiddly to install if not careful
User Impressions: Gamers and tech enthusiasts alike rave about the 990 PRO’s incredible speed and stability. PS5 users specifically highlight how well the integrated heatsink works and how effortlessly it fits into the console, making it a truly premium best M.2 SSD for PS5 option.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
While slightly different from its SN850 siblings, the WD_BLACK SN7100 is still a robust choice for PS5 expansion, particularly if you value power efficiency. It delivers strong PCIe Gen4 performance with read speeds up to 7,250MB/s, making it significantly faster than previous generations. Designed with both laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, its improved power efficiency means less heat and potentially longer component life within your PS5.
Key Features:
– High-octane gaming speeds up to 7,250MB/s read
– Purpose-built with PCIe Gen4 interface and Western Digital’s next generation TLC 3D NAND
– Available in multiple capacities up to 4TB
– Up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation
– Compatible with downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only)
– High endurance of up to 2,400TBW
Pros:
– Fast Gen4 speeds ideal for PS5
– Excellent power efficiency for cooler operation
– High endurance for longevity
– Ample storage capacities available
– Trusted WD_BLACK performance
Cons:
– Heatsink not included, must be purchased separately for PS5 use
– Slightly lower maximum speeds than the SN850X/P
User Impressions: Users appreciate the SN7100 as a reliable and high-performing drive, particularly for its power efficiency. While requiring a separate heatsink for PS5, those who install it report excellent speeds and stable operation.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
6. Fikwot FX910 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD for PS5&PC, PCIe Gen4
The Fikwot FX910 is a compelling option for those looking for extreme performance without a top-tier brand price tag. This M.2 NVMe SSD boasts ultra-fast speeds up to 7300MB/s read and 6200MB/s write, ensuring quick boot-ups and smooth multitasking. It comes with a built-in graphite heatsink to keep things cool under heavy loads, making it fully compatible and highly effective for your PS5, offering a great balance of speed, cooling, and value.
Key Features:
– Extreme performance: up to 7300MB/s read, 6200MB/s write via PCIe 4.0
– Built-in graphite heatsink for advanced cooling and stability
– Wide compatibility with PS5 and desktop PCs
– Easy plug-and-play installation with no driver required
– Available in capacities up to 4TB
– 5-Year Guarantee with 24/7 support
Pros:
– Excellent read/write speeds for gaming
– Integrated heatsink included
– Broad compatibility for multiple devices
– Easy to install
– Strong warranty and customer support
Cons:
– Fikwot is a lesser-known brand
– Write speeds are slightly lower than some premium drives
User Impressions: Customers are often surprised by the Fikwot FX910’s solid performance for its price. The pre-installed heatsink is a big plus for PS5 users, and many report no issues with installation or game performance, highlighting it as a good budget-friendly, high-performance option.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
7. Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen 4×4, Gen 5×2
The Samsung 990 EVO Plus enters the scene with groundbreaking read/write speeds, leveraging the latest NAND memory to achieve up to 7,250/6,300MB/s. What makes this drive particularly forward-thinking is its compatibility with both PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2, offering great flexibility for future upgrades. While PS5 currently uses PCIe 4.0, this drive is optimized to provide exceptional performance with it, ensuring massive file transfers and faster task completion. It’s a powerhouse for large game libraries.
Key Features:
– Groundbreaking read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s
– Available in large storage capacities up to 4TB
– Exceptional thermal control with efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller
– Optimized to support PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility
– Manage and monitor with Magician Software (firmware updates, drive health)
Pros:
– Very fast sequential speeds
– Excellent thermal efficiency and low power consumption
– Large capacity options
– Future-proof with PCIe 5.0 x2 compatibility
– Samsung’s trusted quality and software support
Cons:
– Does not include a heatsink, which is essential for PS5 use
– Not a full PCIe 5.0 x4 drive, though compatible with its x2 variant
User Impressions: Users love the 990 EVO Plus for its raw speed and efficiency. While the lack of a built-in heatsink for PS5 is a common note, once paired with a suitable heatsink, owners report superb performance and cool operation, making it a strong contender for the best M.2 SSD for PS5 if you’re willing to add a heatsink.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
8. Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe x4 Gen4
The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX is specifically designed with the PS5 in mind, exceeding all of Sony’s M.2 performance requirements right out of the box. This SSD offers extreme Gen4 storage performance with blistering sequential read speeds up to 7,100MB/sec and write speeds up to 6,800MB/sec. It comes with a pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader, making it incredibly easy to install and ensuring sustained high performance without throttling.
Key Features:
– Extreme Gen4 storage performance on PS5
– Up to 7,100MB/sec sequential read and 6,800MB/sec sequential write speeds
– High-speed PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe 1.4 Interface
– Capacities available from 500GB up to a massive 4TB
– Exceeds all Sony PS5 M.2 performance requirements
– Pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader
Pros:
– Designed specifically for PS5 compatibility and performance
– Blazing-fast speeds for rapid game loading
– Pre-installed heatsink is low-profile and effective
– Ample storage options
– Renowned Corsair quality
Cons:
– May be slightly more expensive than some non-PS5 specific drives
– The low-profile heatsink might not be as robust as larger third-party solutions, but is adequate.
User Impressions: PS5 users consistently praise the MP600 PRO LPX for its effortless installation and immediate performance boost. The pre-installed heatsink is a major plus, and users confirm it easily fits into the PS5’s expansion slot while delivering impressive speeds.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
9. MOVE SPEED HB7450 2TB SSD for PS5 with Heatsink TLC
The MOVE SPEED HB7450 SSD offers a powerful and budget-friendly solution for your PS5 storage needs. With cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, it delivers impressive read speeds of up to 7450MB/s and write speeds of 6500MB/s, ensuring lightning-fast game loading and file transfers. What truly stands out is its dual cooling solution: a built-in 1mm graphene composite heatsink and an additional uninstalled heatsink included in the package, guaranteeing exceptional thermal management.
Key Features:
– NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface: up to 7450MB/s read, 6500MB/s write
– Perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC
– Utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash memory chips and Maxio MAP1602 controller
– Built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink and additional uninstalled heatsink included
– Rigorously tested for stability and long service life
– Comes with screws and screwdriver for easy installation
Pros:
– Extremely fast read speeds
– Dual cooling solution for excellent thermal performance
– Comprehensive package includes all installation tools
– Highly compatible with PS5
– Rigorous quality testing for reliability
Cons:
– MOVE SPEED is a less recognized brand
– Heatsink comes uninstalled (though easy to attach)
User Impressions: Reviewers are often impressed by the HB7450’s performance relative to its price. The inclusion of both a built-in graphene layer and a separate heatsink is highly appreciated by PS5 owners, who report stable temperatures and rapid game loading.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
10. COLORFUL PS5 SSD 2TB, M.2 2TB SSD PS5, PCIe NVMe
The COLORFUL CN700 PRO SSD is engineered to provide ultimate performance for both gaming PCs and PS5. Leveraging a PCIe Gen4 x4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology, it delivers blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds of 7400/6600 MB/s. Designed with gamers in mind, it drastically reduces loading times and enhances gameplay responsiveness. Its specialized graphite-coated sticker serves as an efficient heatsink, ensuring stable operation even during intense gaming sessions.
Key Features:
– PCIe 4.0 SSD Ultimate Performance: 7400/6600 MB/s read/write speeds
– Leverages PCIe Gen4 x4 controller and NVMe 2.0 technology
– Fully compatible with PS5 and gaming PCs
– Built with high-quality 3D NAND flash memory
– Advanced Thermal Management with a specialized graphite-coated sticker
– Universal M.2 2280 form factor for easy, tool-free installation
Pros:
– Excellent read and write speeds
– Specifically optimized for PS5 and gaming PCs
– Effective passive cooling with graphite-coated sticker
– Uses high-quality 3D NAND flash
– Easy plug-and-play installation
Cons:
– The graphite sticker might not be as robust as a full metal heatsink for extreme conditions (though generally sufficient)
– Colorful is not as widely known as some major SSD brands
User Impressions: Customers report that the COLORFUL CN700 PRO performs admirably on their PS5, providing quick load times and smooth performance. The simple installation process and effective thermal management are frequently highlighted, making it a reliable and cost-effective best M.2 SSD for PS5 choice.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions About PS5 M.2 SSDs
Q1: Why do I need an M.2 SSD for my PS5?
A: The PS5’s internal storage is limited, especially with today’s large game sizes. An M.2 SSD allows you to significantly expand your storage, giving you more space for games, apps, and media without having to delete existing content. It also allows you to play PS5 games directly from the expanded storage, just like the internal drive.
Q2: What are the specific requirements for an M.2 SSD for PS5?
A: Sony recommends an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD with a read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster. The physical size must be 22mm wide (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110 length). Crucially, it must also have a heatsink to prevent overheating and maintain performance. The total size including the heatsink must fit within the PS5’s M.2 slot dimensions.
Q3: Is it difficult to install an M.2 SSD in a PS5?
A: Not at all! Sony designed the PS5 with an accessible expansion slot for easy M.2 SSD installation. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, and the process typically involves removing the PS5’s side panel, unscrewing a cover, inserting the SSD, and then reassembling. Sony provides clear instructions on their support website, and many video tutorials are available.
Q4: Do I really need a heatsink for my PS5 M.2 SSD?
A: Yes, absolutely. Sony explicitly states that a heatsink is required. High-performance SSDs generate a lot of heat, and without proper dissipation, they can overheat and “throttle” (reduce performance) to prevent damage. A heatsink ensures your SSD maintains optimal speeds, especially during intense gaming sessions.
Q5: Can I play PS5 games directly from the M.2 SSD, or do I need to transfer them to the internal storage first?
A: You can play PS5 games directly from an installed M.2 SSD. Once installed and formatted, the PS5 treats it as extended internal storage, allowing you to install and launch PS5 titles from it without any transfer needed.
Q6: What capacity M.2 SSD should I get for my PS5?
A: This depends on your gaming habits.
– 1TB: A good starting point, typically doubles your usable storage.
– 2TB: Ideal for most gamers, offering plenty of space for a large library of AAA titles.
– 4TB: For the most dedicated gamers or those with very large collections, provides massive storage for hundreds of games.
Consider your budget and how many games you usually keep installed at once.
Q7: Will installing an M.2 SSD void my PS5’s warranty?
A: No, installing an officially supported M.2 SSD will not void your PS5’s warranty. Sony designed the console with this expansion in mind, and the process is clearly outlined in their official documentation.
Q8: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs, and why does my PS5 need NVMe?
A: SATA SSDs use an older interface with slower speeds (max around 550 MB/s). NVMe SSDs (Non-Volatile Memory Express) are much faster, utilizing the PCIe interface to achieve speeds in the thousands of MB/s. The PS5’s architecture is designed to leverage these high NVMe speeds for quick asset loading and seamless gameplay, making NVMe a requirement for its expansion slot.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PS5’s storage with one of the best M.2 SSD for PS5 options is one of the smartest moves you can make as a gamer. Not only do you get a massive boost in storage capacity, but you also ensure your load times remain lightning-fast, keeping you immersed in the action.
Whether you go for the officially licensed peace of mind of the WD_BLACK SN850P, the raw power of the Samsung 990 PRO, or a great value option like the Lexar NM790, you’re investing in a smoother, more expansive gaming experience. Pick the drive that best fits your needs and budget, and get ready to download more games and truly unleash your PS5’s full potential! Happy gaming!