Got a PlayStation 5 and already feeling the storage crunch? You’re definitely not alone! Modern games are massive, and that initial 825GB internal storage (with less available for actual games) fills up faster than you can say “trophy unlocked.” If you’re tired of constantly deleting games to make room for new ones, it’s time to consider a storage upgrade.
That’s where a high-performance 1TB SSD comes into play. SanDisk, a well-known name in storage, offers fantastic options, and many compatible drives are even powered by SanDisk technology. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate internal expansion to play directly from, or a speedy external drive for your PS4 games and PS5 archiving, finding the SanDisk best 1TB SSD for PS5 (or a top-tier compatible alternative) can be a game-changer.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to 10 top-rated 1TB SSDs that are perfect for your PlayStation 5. We’ll dive into what makes each one stand out, so you can pick the perfect storage solution to keep your gaming adventures going without interruption. Let’s get started!
Understanding PS5 SSDs: Internal vs. External
Before we jump into the reviews, a quick note on PS5 storage.
- Internal SSD (M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4): This is the gold standard for PS5 expansion. You install it directly into your console, and it allows you to play PS5 games directly from the drive, offering the same lightning-fast load times as the console’s built-in storage. These drives require specific specs (like speeds of 5,500 MB/s or higher) and often benefit from a heatsink.
- External SSD (Portable USB): These drives connect via USB and are great for storing PS4 games, which can be played directly from the external drive. You can also use them to store (archive) PS5 games, but you’ll need to transfer them back to your internal storage (or an installed M.2 SSD) to play them. They’re fantastic for portability and quick backups.
Now, let’s explore the best 1TB SSD options!
The Top 10 SanDisk & Compatible 1TB SSDs for PS5
1. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD, Officially Licensed for PlayStation
This officially licensed SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is specifically designed with PlayStation gamers in mind. It’s an excellent external solution for expanding your game library, allowing you to quickly transfer games from the external archive to your PS5’s internal storage. Its robust build and impressive transfer speeds make it a reliable companion for any PlayStation enthusiast.
Key Features:
– Designed, tested, and approved for PlayStation consoles.
– Enhanced speeds up to 1000MB/s for quick game transfers.
– Expands space for new PS5 titles without deleting old ones.
– Includes a 1-month trial of Discord Nitro.
– IP65 rating and up to 3-meter drop protection for durability.
– Backed by SanDisk quality and a 5-year limited warranty.
Pros:
– Officially licensed, ensuring compatibility and peace of mind.
– Excellent for archiving PS5 games and playing PS4 games directly.
– Very durable with IP65 water/dust resistance and drop protection.
– Fast transfer speeds for an external drive.
– Portable and robust design.
Cons:
– Cannot play PS5 games directly from this drive.
– Requires transferring PS5 games to internal storage to play.
User Impressions: Gamers love this drive for its “set it and forget it” convenience for PS4 games and its speed for archiving PS5 titles. Its rugged design also gets high praise, making it a favorite for those who travel or are just a bit clumsy.
2. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C (Gen 1)
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is a classic for a reason. This versatile drive delivers NVMe solid-state performance in a compact, rugged package, making it an excellent choice for gamers on the go or those needing a dependable external storage solution. Its improved drop protection and IP65 rating mean it can handle bumps and splashes, keeping your valuable game library safe.
Key Features:
– NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
– Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
– Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment.
– Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
– SanDisk Memory Zone app for easy file management.
Pros:
– Blazing-fast external transfer speeds.
– Extremely durable and resistant to water, dust, and drops.
– Compact and lightweight design for ultimate portability.
– Hardware encryption adds a layer of security for your data.
– Great for archiving PS5 games and playing PS4 titles.
Cons:
– Still an external drive, so no direct PS5 gameplay from it.
– Speed benefits are primarily for transfer, not active PS5 gameplay.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend its robust build and the impressive speed it offers for an external SSD. It’s often cited as a reliable workhorse for anyone needing fast, secure, and portable storage.
3. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C (Gen 2)
This is essentially the same fantastic SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD as above, but often a slightly newer revision or batch. It continues to deliver the same high-performance NVMe speeds and a super durable design that gamers and creative professionals adore. It’s a testament to SanDisk’s commitment to quality and resilience, making it a strong contender for anyone needing reliable external storage for their PS5.
Key Features:
– NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds.
– Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
– Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment.
– Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
– SanDisk Memory Zone app for easy file management.
Pros:
– Identical high performance and durability as its sibling model.
– Excellent value for a fast and rugged external drive.
– Great for consolidating game libraries and backups.
– Reliable SanDisk brand reputation.
Cons:
– No direct PS5 game play, like all external SSDs.
– Might be hard to distinguish from other Extreme models without careful checking.
User Impressions: Feedback mirrors its predecessor: users love the speed, durability, and peace of mind it offers. It’s a consistently high-performing external option for anyone looking for the SanDisk best 1TB SSD for PS5 in a portable format.
4. WD_BLACK SN7100 1TB NVMe Internal Gaming SSD Solid State Drive
While technically a WD_BLACK product, this SN7100 is “POWERED BY SANDISK” technology, making it a highly relevant option if you’re searching for a powerful 1TB SSD for PS5. This internal NVMe drive is designed for high-octane gaming, boasting incredible read and write speeds that can significantly enhance your PS5’s performance and expand its storage capabilities, providing a truly immersive gaming experience.
Key Features:
– Speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models).
– PCIe Gen4 interface with SanDisk’s next-generation TLC 3D NAND.
– Up to 35% faster performance than previous generation.
– Increased power efficiency for laptops and handheld devices (beneficial for overall system).
– WD_BLACK Dashboard for optimization (Windows only).
– Powered by SanDisk technology.
Pros:
– Exceptionally fast read/write speeds, exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Uses cutting-edge SanDisk NAND technology for reliable performance.
– Ideal for playing PS5 games directly from the drive.
– High durability and reliability expected from WD_BLACK and SanDisk.
– Great value for a high-performance internal SSD.
Cons:
– Does not include a heatsink, which is highly recommended for PS5 installation.
– Requires manual installation into the PS5 console.
User Impressions: Gamers are thrilled with the performance boost this drive provides. Its speed makes a noticeable difference in load times, and the fact that it’s powered by SanDisk gives users confidence in its longevity.
5. SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD – Up to 2000MB/s
Step up your external storage game with the SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD. This beast offers twice the speed of its “Extreme” sibling, thanks to powerful NVMe solid-state performance. Its forged aluminum chassis isn’t just for looks – it acts as a heatsink, maintaining those blistering speeds even under heavy use. For the serious gamer or content creator, this drive offers premium performance and rugged durability.
Key Features:
– Powerful NVMe solid state performance with up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds.
– Forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink for sustained high speeds.
– Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
– Handy carabiner loop for securing the drive.
– Password protection featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
– SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management.
Pros:
– Phenomenal external transfer speeds, ideal for large game files.
– Integrated heatsink design for better thermal performance.
– Extremely durable and weather-resistant build quality.
– Robust security features with hardware encryption.
– Perfect for quickly archiving PS5 games or using with PC/Mac for other tasks.
Cons:
– Premium price point due to its advanced features.
– Still an external drive, so no direct PS5 gameplay.
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about its incredible speed and solid build. It’s often highlighted as a top-tier choice for professionals and gamers who demand the absolute best in portable storage performance and resilience.
6. SanDisk 1TB Portable SSD – Up to 800MB/s, USB-C
For those seeking a reliable and straightforward external storage solution without breaking the bank, the standard SanDisk Portable SSD is a fantastic option. It provides solid-state performance with good read speeds, making it a great way to back up your content and expand your PlayStation’s capacity for PS4 titles. Its durable design ensures your memories and games are safe on your adventures.
Key Features:
– Solid state performance with up to 800MB/s read speeds.
– Designed for backing up content and memories.
– Up to two-meter drop protection for durability.
– Tough rubber hook for secure attachment.
– From SanDisk, a trusted brand by professionals.
Pros:
– More affordable entry point for SanDisk external SSDs.
– Good speeds for everyday use and PS4 game storage.
– Durable build with drop protection.
– Portable and easy to carry.
– Trusted brand reliability.
Cons:
– Slower than the Extreme or Extreme PRO models.
– No hardware encryption feature mentioned.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate its balance of affordability, reliability, and decent speed. It’s often recommended as a great value external SSD for casual users and gamers who don’t need the absolute fastest transfer rates.
7. WD Blue SN5100 1TB NVMe SSD – M.2 2280, PCIe Gen 4.0
Another excellent internal M.2 SSD option that leverages SanDisk technology is the WD Blue SN5100. Built to accelerate AI-enabled workflows and creative projects, its PCIe Gen 4.0 speeds are more than capable of handling the demands of your PS5. This drive offers a solid balance of performance and capacity, making it a smart upgrade for increasing your game library and enjoying faster load times.
Key Features:
– PCIe Gen 4.0 speeds up to 7,100 MB/s (1TB-2TB models).
– 30% faster than prior generation.
– Sandisk 3D CBA NAND technology for reliable storage.
– Sandisk nCache 4.0 technology for blistering file transfer speeds.
– 5-year limited warranty.
– Acronis True Image for Sandisk data migration software included.
Pros:
– Exceeds PS5 speed requirements for seamless gameplay.
– Utilizes advanced SanDisk NAND and nCache technology.
– Great for both gaming and heavy-duty applications.
– Backed by a strong 5-year warranty.
– Excellent performance for its price point.
Cons:
– A heatsink is not included and would need to be purchased separately for PS5.
– Installation requires opening the PS5 console.
User Impressions: Users report significant improvements in system responsiveness and game load times. It’s praised for being a reliable, fast, and cost-effective internal storage upgrade, especially for those who already trust the WD and SanDisk ecosystem.
8. WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed for PS5
This is the holy grail for PS5 internal storage expansion! The WD_BLACK SN850P is an officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles, meaning you get guaranteed compatibility and an optimized experience. It comes with a pre-installed, optimized heatsink specifically designed for the PS5, eliminating any guesswork during installation. This drive is all about uninterrupted, lightning-fast gameplay. This could very well be the SanDisk best 1TB SSD for PS5 for direct internal use, given its official licensing and inclusion of SanDisk’s core technology within WD_BLACK products.
Key Features:
– Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles.
– Capacities from 1TB to 4TB (this review focuses on 1TB).
– Brand-new, optimized heatsink designed for PS5.
– Play directly from the drive with tested and approved storage.
– Read speeds up to 7,300MB/s, pushing PCIe Gen 4 technology.
– Includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe.
Pros:
– Official licensing guarantees perfect PS5 compatibility.
– Integrated, optimized heatsink for easy, worry-free installation.
– Exceptional read speeds for incredibly short load times.
– Allows direct gameplay of PS5 titles from the drive.
– Peace of mind with a product designed specifically for your console.
Cons:
– Typically at a higher price point due to licensing and integrated heatsink.
– The 14-day PS Plus trial might not be useful for existing subscribers.
User Impressions: This drive consistently receives glowing reviews from PS5 owners. The seamless installation, blazing speeds, and official seal of approval make it a top choice for those wanting the best and easiest internal upgrade.
9. SIX NVME M.2 SSD PCIe 4.0-1TB m.2 2280 ssd, Read up to 7350MB/s
For gamers seeking extreme performance without a brand premium, the SIX NVME M.2 SSD is a contender. Offering blazing-fast PCIe Gen4x4 speeds that rival top-tier drives, this SSD is purpose-built for immersive gameplay and heavy computing. It’s compatible with laptops, desktops, and the PS5, and impressively, it often includes installation accessories like a screw, screwdriver, and a heatsink – a thoughtful touch often overlooked by other manufacturers.
Key Features:
– PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface with up to 7350MB/s read speeds.
– Ferocious performance for heavy computing and immersive gameplay.
– Compatible with laptop, desktop, or PS5 storage expansion.
– Includes necessary installation accessories (screw, screwdriver, heatsink).
– 5 Years Limited Warranty.
– Built for incredibly short load times and uninterrupted gameplay.
Pros:
– Extremely high read speeds, exceeding PS5 requirements.
– Excellent value for the performance it delivers.
– Includes essential installation tools and a heatsink.
– Versatile compatibility across multiple platforms.
– Strong 5-year warranty.
Cons:
– A lesser-known brand compared to SanDisk or WD_BLACK.
– Long-term reliability might not be as established as bigger brands (though warranty helps).
User Impressions: Users are pleasantly surprised by the performance and value, especially the inclusion of a heatsink and tools. Many note the significant improvement in PS5 load times and overall system responsiveness after installing this drive.
10. SanDisk SSD PLUS 1TB Internal SSD – SATA III 6 Gb/s
While technically an “internal SSD,” it’s crucial to understand that the SanDisk SSD PLUS is a SATA III drive, not an NVMe M.2 drive. This means it’s NOT compatible for direct internal expansion within the PS5 console itself. However, it can be an excellent upgrade for an older PC or laptop, and could potentially be used in an external SATA enclosure for PS4 game storage or general data, though an NVMe external drive would be much faster. We’ve included it for completeness, but highlight this distinction for PS5 users.
Key Features:
– Easy upgrade for faster boot-up, shutdown, application load, and response on PCs.
– Boosts burst write performance for typical PC workloads.
– Read/write speeds of up to 535MB/s/350MBs.
– Shock-resistant for proven durability.
– Perfect balance of performance and reliability for PC users.
Pros:
– Very affordable 1TB internal SSD option (for PCs).
– Great for upgrading older desktops or laptops.
– Reliable SanDisk brand quality.
– Durable and shock-resistant.
Cons:
– Not compatible for internal storage expansion in the PlayStation 5.
– Slower speeds compared to NVMe SSDs.
– Only useful for PS5 users if placed in an external enclosure for PS4 games (and even then, there are better external options).
User Impressions: PC users highly rate this drive for breathing new life into older systems and offering a cost-effective performance boost. However, PS5 users must be aware it’s not suitable for direct console installation.
Conclusion
Upgrading your PlayStation 5’s storage with a 1TB SSD is one of the best ways to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you opt for an officially licensed, lightning-fast internal NVMe drive like the WD_BLACK SN850P, or a rugged, high-speed external solution like the SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD, you’re investing in more games and less waiting.
The SanDisk best 1TB SSD for PS5 for internal use would arguably be the WD_BLACK SN850P, which is heavily tied to SanDisk technology and explicitly designed for the console. For external storage, the SanDisk Extreme PRO stands out for its incredible speed and durability. Carefully consider your specific needs – do you want to play PS5 games directly from the expanded storage, or primarily archive them and play PS4 titles? Once you know that, choosing from these top 10 options will be a breeze. Happy gaming!
FAQ Section
Q: Why do I need an SSD for my PS5?
A: Modern PS5 games are incredibly large, and the console’s built-in storage fills up quickly. An SSD upgrade allows you to store more games without constantly deleting and re-downloading, giving you instant access to your full game library and ensuring you don’t miss out on new titles.
Q: What’s the difference between an external and internal SSD for PS5?
A: An internal SSD (M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4) is installed directly into your PS5 and allows you to play PS5 games directly from it, with the same blazing-fast load times as the console’s built-in drive. An external SSD (portable USB) connects via a USB port and can store PS4 games (which can be played directly from it) and archive PS5 games. To play archived PS5 games, you’d need to transfer them back to your console’s internal storage or an M.2 SSD.
Q: What are the PS5’s SSD requirements for internal expansion?
A: For internal expansion, the PS5 requires an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. It also needs to be compatible with an M.2 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110 form factor. A heatsink is highly recommended for optimal performance and longevity.
Q: Do I need a heatsink for my PS5 SSD?
A: Yes, Sony highly recommends or essentially requires a heatsink for internal PS5 M.2 SSDs. This helps dissipate heat generated by the high-speed drive, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring sustained performance, especially during intense gaming sessions. Some drives, like the WD_BLACK SN850P, come with one pre-installed.
Q: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
A: No, you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external SSD. You can store (archive) PS5 games on an external drive, but you’ll need to transfer them back to your internal console storage or an installed M.2 NVMe SSD to play them. External drives are primarily for playing PS4 games or archiving PS5 titles.
Q: Is SanDisk a good brand for PS5 SSDs?
A: Yes, SanDisk is a highly reputable and trusted brand in the storage industry, known for its reliability and performance. Many Western Digital (WD) drives, including the powerful WD_BLACK line, are manufactured using SanDisk technologies, ensuring excellent quality for your PS5 storage needs.
Q: How much storage does 1TB actually add for games?
A: A 1TB SSD adds approximately 1,000 gigabytes of storage. Given that many modern PS5 games range from 50GB to over 150GB, a 1TB drive can typically store anywhere from 6 to 20 additional AAA games, significantly expanding your playable library.
Q: How easy is it to install an M.2 SSD in a PS5?
A: Installing an M.2 SSD in a PS5 is a relatively straightforward process. Sony provides clear instructions, and you’ll typically need a Phillips head screwdriver. It involves removing the console’s side cover, unscrewing a plate, inserting the SSD into the M.2 slot, and reassembling. Many drives now even come with all the necessary tools and a heatsink for an even smoother experience.