Upgrade Your PS5 Storage: A Guide to the Best SSDs

For several console generations, gamers were limited by built-in storage. The PS5 changed this with its M.2 PCIe slot, allowing for external SSD installation. This is a significant improvement, especially considering the PS5's limited base storage (825GB). Now, high-performance PC SSDs can drastically improve load times, almost matching the console's internal drive.

TL;DR: Top PS5 SSD Picks

Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: Our top pick. See it on Amazon

Crucial T500: Best budget option. See it on Amazon

Samsung 990 Evo Plus: Best without a heatsink. See it at Best Buy

WD_Black P40: Best external SSD (for PS4 games and data transfer). See it on Amazon

PS5 SSD Requirements and Recommendations:

• Interface: PCIe 4.0 (or Gen 4) or faster. This offers speeds up to 7,500MB/s, a substantial improvement over Gen 3.
• Form Factor: M.2. While the PS5 supports various sizes, M.2 2280 is the most common and recommended.
• Heatsink: Essential due to the heat generated by PCIe 4.0 SSDs. The heatsink must be 11.25mm or shorter. Choose an SSD with a built-in heatsink or purchase one separately.
• Capacity: 1TB is a popular choice, effectively doubling storage. Larger capacities (up to 4TB or more) are available but cost significantly more.
• Warranty and Endurance (TBW): Check the warranty period (typically 5 years) and the TBW rating (Terabytes Written), indicating the drive's write endurance. TLC NAND is a good balance of performance and durability for gaming.

What to Consider When Choosing a PS5 SSD:

Consider your priorities: high storage capacity, maximum speed, future-proofing (PCIe 5.0 – though unnecessary for PS5), a built-in heatsink, or affordability.

PS5 SSD Basics:

Many compatible SSDs are available at various price points. While prices have decreased, larger drives (e.g., 8TB) remain expensive. Ensure your chosen SSD meets the PS5's size restrictions (110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm including heatsink). A minimum read speed of 5500MB/s is required; most PCIe 4.0 drives exceed this. The PS5's installation process includes a speed test.

Internal vs. External SSDs:

Internal SSDs (M.2) provide the best performance for PS5 games. External SSDs (like the WD_Black P40) are slower but useful for storing PS4 games and transferring data.

Individual SSD Reviews:

1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: Excellent value, high read speeds (7,100MB/s), pre-installed heatsink. 1TB version offers good performance at a budget-friendly price. TBW rating of 700TB is sufficient for most gamers.

2. Crucial T500: Best budget option, high speeds (7,300MB/s read), includes heatsink, good value for 1TB. Limited to 1TB and 2TB options.

3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus: High performance, fast load times, available in various capacities (1TB-4TB). Does not include a heatsink; purchase separately.

4. WD_Black P40: External SSD, faster than traditional hard drives (2,000MB/s read), suitable for PS4 games and data transfer. Cannot run PS5 games directly.

PS5 SSD FAQ:

• Is an SSD worth it? Yes, if you play multiple games or live-service titles that require significant storage.
• What speed SSD? At least 5,500MB/s read speed (PCIe 4.0). 6,500MB/s or higher is ideal.
• Best time to buy? Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday often offer discounts.
• Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it? No, the PS5 doesn't utilize PCIe 5.0 speeds.

Remember to consult our guide on how to upgrade your PS5 storage for installation instructions. (link-to-installation-guide)