Looking for the best external SSD for PS5? You’re not alone—gamers everywhere are running out of space as PS5 games continue to grow in size. Whether you want to expand your console’s internal storage or back up your favorite titles, choosing the right SSD can make all the difference. We’ve tested and compared the top options based on speed, compatibility, durability, and value to help you find the perfect match for your gaming setup.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 What Is The Best External Ssd For Ps5 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed Storage Expansion for PS5 Consoles, up to 7,300 MB/s
This officially licensed SSD from WD_BLACK is built specifically for the PS5, offering blazing-fast NVMe speeds and seamless compatibility. With 2TB of storage, it lets you install and play PS5 games directly—no more deleting favorites to make room.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Officially licensed by Sony for guaranteed PS5 compatibility
- ✓ Up to 7,300 MB/s read speeds for near-instant game loading
- ✓ Integrated heatsink designed for PS5’s internal slot
- ✓ Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities
- ✓ Easy installation with no tools required
Why We Recommend It
As the only SSD officially licensed by Sony, the WD_BLACK SN850P eliminates compatibility concerns and delivers top-tier performance. It’s plug-and-play simple and built to handle the heat and workload of next-gen gaming.
Best For
Gamers who want maximum storage and performance without risking compatibility issues. Ideal for those who play large PS5 titles like Horizon Forbidden West or God of War Ragnarök.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Seamless PS5 integration with official certification
- Exceptional read/write speeds reduce load times
- Built-in heatsink prevents thermal throttling
- Reliable brand with strong warranty support
Cons:
- Pricier than non-licensed alternatives
- Limited to internal expansion (not usable as external USB drive)
Customer Reviews
“I bought this SSD to expand my storage on my PS5 since my storage got ran up pretty fast. The installation was very simple and the video they have is very easy to follow. I was able to get it installed and set up in a matter of 10 minutes.”
“Very easy to install—the video in the description is a perfect step-by-step guide. It performs well, no noise, and I’ve had no issues with overheating. All my games download fast and are easily accessible. It’s literally the best money I’ve spent for my PS5.”
2. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink – M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds
A high-performance Gen4 NVMe SSD that brings desktop-level speed to your PS5. The SN850X isn’t officially licensed, but its reliability, speed, and included heatsink make it a favorite among power users.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blazing 7,300 MB/s read and 6,300 MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Includes a sleek, functional heatsink for thermal management
- ✓ Uses SanDisk TLC 3D NAND for durability and longevity
- ✓ Available up to 8TB (though 2TB is the sweet spot for most)
- ✓ Backed by a 5-year limited warranty
Why We Recommend It
If you’re comfortable doing a quick compatibility check, the SN850X offers near-identical performance to the official SN850P at a slightly lower price. It’s a proven workhorse trusted by PC and console gamers alike.
Best For
Tech-savvy gamers who want maximum speed and don’t mind verifying PS5 compatibility. Great for users who also use their SSD across multiple devices.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One of the fastest consumer NVMe SSDs available
- Excellent thermal performance with included heatsink
- Great value compared to officially licensed drives
- Consistent performance under heavy load
Cons:
- Not officially licensed by Sony (minor risk of future firmware issues)
- Requires manual verification of PS5 compatibility
Customer Reviews
“Upgraded to the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe from a Gen 3 SSD, and the difference is massive. This drive delivers exactly what it promises—insane speeds, great thermal performance, and rock-solid reliability.”
“The 1TB WD_BLACK SN850X was one of the best upgrades I made to my PC. Installation in M.2 format was quick and easy, and I noticed the difference from the very first boot: game loading times were drastically reduced.”
3. SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, Officially Licensed for PlayStation 5 Console and PC – up to 1,000 MB/s
This portable SSD is officially licensed for PS5 and perfect for gamers who need extra space without opening up their console. While you can’t run PS5 games directly from it, it’s ideal for storing and quickly transferring titles.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Officially licensed by Sony for PS5 and PC use
- ✓ Compact, rugged design with IP55 water and dust resistance
- ✓ Speeds up to 1,000 MB/s for fast file transfers
- ✓ USB-C connectivity with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
- ✓ Includes password protection with SanDisk SecureAccess software
Why We Recommend It
For under $150, this SSD offers incredible value. It’s not for running PS5 games, but it’s perfect for backing up your library or storing PS4 games you still enjoy. Plus, it works seamlessly across consoles and PCs.
Best For
Budget-conscious gamers who want safe, portable storage for game backups or PS4 titles. Also great as a general-purpose external drive for media and files.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable way to expand PS5 storage
- Officially licensed—no compatibility worries
- Durable and travel-friendly design
- Fast enough for quick game transfers
Cons:
- Cannot run PS5 games directly from the drive
- Slower than internal NVMe options
Customer Reviews
“Easy install, only had for a couple weeks, but had no issues with operation and use. Easy expansion for memory on PS5. You cannot run PS5 games straight from it, but PS4 games work just fine.”
“Purchased to keep PS4 games from bloating system memory—it works exactly as intended. Fast transfers and solid build quality.”
4. WD_BLACK SN850X 1TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink – M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds
The 1TB version of the SN850X delivers the same elite performance in a smaller capacity. Perfect if you’re on a tighter budget but still want Gen4 speeds and reliable thermal management.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Same 7,300 MB/s read speed as larger models
- ✓ Includes high-quality heatsink for sustained performance
- ✓ Uses advanced SanDisk TLC NAND for endurance
- ✓ Compact M.2 2280 form factor fits PS5 perfectly
- ✓ Backed by WD’s reputation for gaming-grade storage
Why We Recommend It
If 2TB feels like overkill, this 1TB model offers the same speed and reliability at a more accessible price. It’s a smart choice for gamers with moderate storage needs.
Best For
Gamers who want high-speed internal expansion without breaking the bank. Ideal for those with smaller game libraries or who frequently rotate titles.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Top-tier speed in a compact capacity
- Excellent thermal performance
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Easy installation process
Cons:
- 1TB may fill up quickly with modern PS5 games
- Not officially licensed (minor compatibility risk)
Customer Reviews
“Upgraded to the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe from a Gen 3 SSD, and the difference is massive. This drive delivers exactly what it promises—insane speeds, great thermal performance, and rock-solid reliability.”
“The 1TB WD_BLACK SN850X was one of the best upgrades I made to my PC. Installation was quick and easy, and I noticed smoother performance immediately.”
5. Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 1TB External Solid State Drive, Speeds Up to 1,050 MB/s
Samsung’s T7 is a premium portable SSD known for its speed, compact design, and cross-platform compatibility. While not PS5-specific, it’s excellent for backing up games or expanding storage across devices.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ USB 3.2 Gen 2 delivers up to 1,050 MB/s transfer speeds
- ✓ Shock-resistant and drop-tested up to 2 meters
- ✓ AES 256-bit hardware encryption for security
- ✓ Works with Windows, Mac, Android, and PlayStation
- ✓ Sleek aluminum body dissipates heat efficiently
Why We Recommend It
If you need a versatile SSD that works beyond your PS5—like for video editing or backing up your PC—the T7 is a fantastic all-rounder. It’s reliable, fast, and built to last.
Best For
Multi-device users who want a high-quality external SSD for gaming, work, and media. Great for creators and travelers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and design
- Fast transfers for an external drive
- Strong security features
- Broad device compatibility
Cons:
- Cannot run PS5 games directly
- More expensive per GB than internal NVMe drives
Customer Reviews
“Top quality, no issues—uploading is fast, as well as downloading. The memory is huge. 200 hours of video, and it didn’t even use 1% of storage space.”
“The T7 was received in FAT32 format. I reformatted it to NTFS for my Win 11 PC, and it’s been flawless ever since. Great speed and reliability.”
6. Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 2TB External Solid State Drive, Speeds Up to 1,050 MB/s
Double the capacity of the 1TB model, this 2TB T7 offers the same premium performance and portability. It’s perfect for gamers who need serious backup space without sacrificing speed or style.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Same 1,050 MB/s speeds as the 1TB version
- ✓ Massive 2TB capacity for large game libraries
- ✓ Rugged, pocket-sized design with aluminum casing
- ✓ Password protection and AES 256-bit encryption
- ✓ USB-C with backward compatibility
Why We Recommend It
When you need more room for backups, screenshots, or video captures, the 2TB T7 delivers without compromise. It’s a reliable, high-capacity companion for any serious gamer.
Best For
Content creators and gamers with large libraries who want fast, secure external storage that works across consoles and computers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Huge capacity in a tiny package
- Consistent performance under heavy use
- Excellent security and durability
- Works seamlessly with PS5 for storage (not gameplay)
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than internal SSDs
- Not suitable for running PS5 games directly
Customer Reviews
“Top quality, no issues—uploading is fast, as well as downloading. The memory is huge. 200 hours of video, and it didn’t even use 1% of storage space.”
“Reformatted to NTFS for my desktop, and it’s been perfect. Fast, quiet, and reliable.”
7. WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed Storage Expansion for PS5 Consoles, up to 7,300 MB/s
The smaller sibling of our top pick, this 1TB officially licensed SSD offers the same plug-and-play simplicity and performance in a more compact capacity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Officially licensed by Sony for guaranteed compatibility
- ✓ Up to 7,300 MB/s read speeds
- ✓ Custom heatsink designed for PS5 airflow
- ✓ Easy installation with no technical know-how needed
- ✓ Reliable performance backed by WD_BLACK’s gaming pedigree
Why We Recommend It
If you don’t need 2TB or 4TB, this 1TB model is a safe, high-performance choice. It’s perfect for casual gamers or those who prefer to manage their library actively.
Best For
PS5 owners who want official support and fast load times without overspending on unused storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Zero compatibility concerns
- Fast, consistent performance
- Simple installation process
- Trusted brand with strong reputation
Cons:
- 1TB fills up quickly with AAA titles
- Higher cost per GB than non-licensed drives
Customer Reviews
“Installed in under 10 minutes—no tools, no stress. My PS5 recognizes it instantly, and games load faster than ever.”
“Worth every penny for the peace of mind. Official licensing means I’ll never worry about updates breaking compatibility.”
Complete Buying Guide for What Is The Best External SSD For PS5
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best external SSD for PS5, we focus on compatibility, speed, capacity, and value. For internal expansion, NVMe Gen4 drives with heatsinks are ideal. For external use, USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives with at least 1,000 MB/s speeds offer the best balance. Always check if the drive is officially licensed or verified by other users to avoid firmware issues.
Budget Planning
Prices range from around $80 for a 1TB portable SSD to over $200 for a high-capacity NVMe drive. Set a budget based on your needs: casual gamers may only need 1TB, while enthusiasts should consider 2TB or more. Remember, investing in quality now saves headaches later.
Final Thoughts
The right SSD can transform your PS5 experience—faster loads, more games, and less stress. Whether you go with an officially licensed internal drive or a versatile portable option, prioritize reliability and performance. Your games deserve it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
A: No—PS5 games must be played from the internal SSD or an approved M.2 expansion drive. External SSDs can only store PS5 games (for quick transfer) or run PS4 games directly.
Q: Do I need a heatsink for my M.2 SSD in the PS5?
A: Yes! The PS5 generates significant heat, and a heatsink helps prevent thermal throttling. Most recommended drives include one, but always double-check.
Q: Is it safe to use non-officially licensed SSDs in my PS5?
A: Generally, yes—if they meet Sony’s speed and form factor requirements. However, officially licensed drives like the WD_BLACK SN850P offer guaranteed compatibility and future-proofing.
Q: How much storage do I really need for my PS5?
A: Modern PS5 games can take 80–150GB each. A 2TB drive comfortably holds 15–20 titles, while 1TB is better for 8–10 games. Consider your library size and habits.
Q: Can I use the same SSD for my PC and PS5?
A: Internal M.2 SSDs are console-only once formatted for PS5. Portable USB SSDs like the Samsung T7 or SanDisk Extreme can be used across devices.
Ready to upgrade your PS5 storage? Whether you’re after raw speed, official peace of mind, or budget-friendly flexibility, one of these SSDs will take your gaming to the next level. Click any “Check Price” button above to grab the best deal today!