Over the last few console generations, gamers have often been limited by the built-in storage of their consoles. Sony's decision to include an M.2 PCIe slot in the PS5 marked a significant shift, allowing users to expand their storage with off-the-shelf SSDs. This move was particularly refreshing, considering Sony's history with the PS Vita and PSP, which used exorbitantly priced proprietary memory cards. With only 825GB of internal storage, the PS5's expandability is a game-changer. Gamers can now utilize high-end PC SSDs, like our top pick, the Corsair MP600 Pro LPX, to enhance their gaming experience with faster load times, nearly matching the console's built-in drive.
TL;DR - These Are the Best SSDs for PS5:
Our Top Pick### Corsair MP600 Pro LPX
9See it at Amazon
### CrucialT500
0See it at Amazon
### Samsung990 Evo Plus
0See it at Best Buy
### WD_Black P40
1See it at AmazonThere are a few key requirements for expanding your PS5 storage. You'll need a PCIe 4.0 or Gen 4 drive, which supports speeds up to 7,500MB/s, significantly faster than the 3,500MB/s of Gen 3 M.2 SSDs. The drive should be an M.2 type, and while the PS5 accommodates various M.2 sizes, the M.2 2280 is the most common and recommended.
We also suggest opting for an SSD with a built-in heatsink, adhering to a maximum height of 11.25mm. This is crucial because PCIe 4.0 SSDs generate considerable heat under load, and the PS5's SSD slot area has limited airflow. A heatsink prevents overheating and performance throttling. You can choose an SSD with a built-in heatsink or purchase one separately, both options work well.
When selecting capacity, consider your needs. A 1TB drive is a popular choice, effectively doubling your storage and allowing for multiple game installations, including large titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. For those with extensive libraries, a 4TB drive offers ample space, albeit at a higher cost.
If you're an Xbox owner, see our roundup of the best SSDs for Xbox Series XContributions by Danielle Abraham and Callum Bains*
AnswerSee ResultsPS5 SSD BasicsA variety of SSDs are compatible with the PS5's M.2 slot, and with increased competition, you can find high-speed, affordable options under $100. Larger drives, such as the upcoming 8TB SSD from Western Digital, are pricier, often exceeding $500.
Ensure your SSD is an NVMe PCIe 4.0 model, fitting within the PS5's dimensions of 110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm, including the heatsink. The PS5's compact design can lead to high temperatures, making a heatsink essential to prevent performance issues. Most drives include an optional heatsink, but if purchasing separately, ensure it's under 8mm in height.
Your SSD should achieve sequential read speeds of at least 5,500MB/s. Most PCIe 4.0 drives offer speeds around 7,000–7,500MB/s, which the PS5 tests at around 6,500MB/s. Higher speeds beyond this aren't necessary for PS5 gaming.
Check the drive's warranty and endurance rating, measured in TBW (Terabytes Written), to understand its lifespan. The type of NAND memory used—QLC, TLC, or MLC—affects durability and price, with TLC being a balanced choice for gamers.
Given the PS5's limited 825GB and the PS5 Slim's 1TB, additional storage is often necessary. Large games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur’s Gate 3 can quickly consume space. The M.2 slot supports up to 8TB, with 1TB offering a good balance of capacity and cost. For extensive libraries, 4TB drives are available.
Besides internal SSDs, external hard drives offer additional storage for PS4 games and data storage, though they can't run PS5 games.
For installation help, refer to our guide on how to upgrade your PS5 storage. No advanced hardware skills are required.
Corsair MP600 Pro LPX
Best PS5 SSD
Our Top Pick### Corsair MP600 Pro LPX
9With read speeds up to 7,100MB/s and a preinstalled heatsink, this SSD is optimized for quick data loading.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity1TBSequential read speed7,100MB/sSequential write speed5,800MB/sNAND type3D TLCTBW700TBPROSExcellent valueHigh read speedCONSNot the fastest drive aroundThe Corsair MP600 Pro LPX was one of the first SSDs marketed for the PS5 and remains a top choice. While newer PCIe 5.0 SSDs might offer higher speeds, the PS5 can't fully utilize them, making the MP600 a cost-effective option at around $80 for 1TB.
Rated for 7,100MB/s read and 5,800MB/s write speeds, it performs well within the PS5's capabilities. The 700TBW rating is more than sufficient for most gamers, though it's less ideal for professional use after being removed from the PS5.
Crucial T500
Best Budget PS5 SSD
### CrucialT500
0A 1TB drive with high speeds and a built-in heatsink, available for less than expected, making it a great value for PS5 users.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity1TBSequential read speed7,300MB/sSequential write speed6,800MB/sNAND typeMicron TLCTBW600TBPROSTLC 3D NAND flash memoryImpressive speedsCONSNo 4TB optionThe Crucial T500 offers excellent value with its performance upgrade over the P5 Plus. For just over $100, it provides 1TB of storage with a heatsink, ideal for the PS5's limited space. Its Micron TLC 3D NAND ensures high read speeds of up to 7,300MB/s and write speeds up to 6,800MB/s, making it suitable for fast game loading and data transfers.
The 2TB version offers even more storage and faster speeds, with a doubled TBW rating of 1,200TB, though it lacks a 4TB option for those needing extensive space.
3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus
Best PS5 SSD Without Heatsink
### Samsung990 Evo Plus
0See it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsCapacity1TB – 4TBSequential read speed7,250MB/sSequential write speed6,300MB/sNAND typeSamsung V-NAND TLCTBW600TB (1TB), 1200TB (2TB), 2400TB (4TB)PROSExcellent performance for the moneyExtremely fast load timesCONSDoesn't come with a heatsinkThe Samsung 990 Evo Plus offers strong performance at a competitive price. While its endurance rating is lower than the 990 Pro, it's more than adequate for console use. The drive's read speeds reach 7,250MB/s, with the PS5 test showing 6,137MB/s, ensuring fast game loading.
As a DRAM-less SSD, it's less suited for professional workloads but perfectly fine for gaming. Remember, you'll need to purchase a separate heatsink, though they are affordable and widely available.
WD_Black P40
Best External PS5 SSD
### WD_Black P40
11TB of storage with read speeds up to 2,000MB/s via a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connection, making it a fast external SSD for the PS5.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity1TBSequential read speed2,000MB/sSequential write speed2,000MB/sNAND typeWD TLCTBW600TBPROSFaster than traditional hard drive Multiplatform supportCONSCan't run PS5 gamesThe WD_Black P40 is an external SSD that connects to the PS5 via USB, avoiding the need to open the console. It's compatible with other platforms like Xbox and PC, though it can't run PS5 games directly. It's ideal for storing PS5 game data to save on redownloading large files and playing PS4 games directly from the drive.
With speeds up to 2,000MB/s, it's much faster than traditional hard drives, making it perfect for transferring data between consoles.
PS5 SSD FAQ
Is an SSD worth it for PS5?
With the PS5's internal storage largely occupied by system files, leaving around 650GB for games, additional storage becomes essential for avid gamers. The PS5 Slim and Pro offer more space, but for those juggling multiple games or playing live service titles that grow with updates, an SSD is a valuable investment.
What speed SSD should I get for PS5?
An SSD with at least 5,500MB/s read speed is necessary, a standard easily met by PCIe 4.0 drives. While higher speeds are available, anything above 6,500MB/s should suffice for most users.
When is the best time to buy a PS5 SSD?
SSDs can be a costly addition to the PS5. Prices have dropped over time, but the best times to buy are during sales events like Amazon Prime Day in July, or Black Friday and Cyber Monday, where significant discounts are common.
Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it for the PS5?
No, PCIe 5.0 SSDs are not worth it for the PS5. The console only supports PCIe 4.0, and while PCIe 5.0 drives are backward compatible, the PS5 can't utilize their full potential. Stick with PCIe 4.0 SSDs for better value.
