In the past, gamers were often limited by the built-in storage of their consoles. However, Sony's PlayStation 5 (PS5) has changed the game by introducing an internal M.2 PCIe slot, allowing users to enhance their storage with off-the-shelf SSDs. This is a significant shift, especially considering Sony's history with expensive memory cards for devices like the PS Vita and PSP. The PS5 comes with just 825GB of storage, which can fill up quickly, making the ability to add high-end PC SSDs like the Corsair MP600 Pro LPX, our top recommendation, a welcome feature. These SSDs can load games nearly as fast as the console's built-in drive, enhancing your gaming experience.
TL;DR - These Are the Best SSDs for PS5:
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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 some key considerations when selecting an SSD for your PS5. You'll need a PCIe 4.0 or Gen 4 drive, which can reach speeds up to 7,500MB/s, a significant improvement over Gen 3 M.2 SSDs. The drive should be an M.2 type, with the most common size being M.2 2280, which fits the PS5's screw holes.
We highly recommend choosing an SSD with a built-in heatsink. The heatsink should not exceed 11.25mm in height to fit within the PS5's slot. PCIe 4.0 SSDs generate substantial heat, and the PS5's SSD slot has limited airflow, making a heatsink crucial to prevent overheating and performance throttling. You can opt for an SSD with a built-in heatsink or purchase one separately.
When it comes to capacity, consider your needs. A 1TB drive is often sufficient, effectively doubling your storage and allowing you to install multiple large games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. For avid collectors, larger 4TB drives are available, though they come with a higher price tag.
PS5 SSD Basics
--------------There's a wide range of SSDs compatible with the PS5's M.2 slot. With increased competition, you can find high-speed, affordable options under $100. Larger drives, such as the upcoming 8TB SSD from Western Digital, can cost over $500.
Ensure your SSD fits within the PS5's maximum dimensions of 110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm, including the heatsink. The PS5's internal space is tight, necessitating a heatsink to manage heat and prevent performance issues. Most SSDs offer an optional heatsink, but if you purchase one separately, ensure it's under 8mm above the SSD or 2.45mm below.
Your SSD should be a PCIe 4.0 NVMe with sequential read speeds of at least 5500MB/s. The PS5 will run a speed test during installation to confirm compatibility, typically capping at around 6,500MB/s. Most PCIe 4.0 drives exceed this, offering speeds between 7,000–7,500MB/s.
Check the drive's warranty, which often lasts five years and includes a TBW (Terabytes Written) rating. This indicates the drive's endurance, measured in terabytes written over its lifespan. The type of NAND memory, such as QLC, TLC, or MLC, affects endurance and price. TLC NAND, used in our recommended drives, strikes a balance between performance and cost.
Given the PS5's limited internal storage and the size of modern games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur’s Gate 3, expanding with an M.2 SSD (250GB–8TB) is essential. 1TB offers a good balance between capacity and price, but larger drives are available for those with extensive game libraries.
In addition to internal SSDs, you can use an external hard drive for storage, though PS5 games can't be run from them. They're useful for storing PS4 games and reducing the need for redownloads.
For installation help, refer to our guide on upgrading PS5 storage.
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 ensures 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 specifically for the PS5 and remains a top choice. Although newer SSDs with PCIe 5.0 may offer higher speeds, the PS5 can't fully utilize them. At around $80 for a 1TB model, it's a cost-effective choice.
This SSD achieves a read speed of 7,100MB/s and write speeds up to 5,800MB/s, making it compatible with the PS5. Actual speeds on the console may be around 6,500MB/s, still sufficient for fast game loading.
The 1TB version's durability is rated at 700TBW, which is more than most PS5 gamers will need. This rating is primarily relevant if you plan to use the drive in other high-intensity applications later.
Crucial T500
Best Budget PS5 SSD
### CrucialT500
0A 1TB drive with high speeds and an included heatsink, perfect for the PS5, at a budget-friendly price. 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 great value, with performance improvements over its predecessor, the P5 Plus. Priced just over $100, the 1TB model includes a heatsink, making it ideal for the PS5's tight space.
With Micron TLC 3D NAND, the T500 matches high-performance drives. It achieves read speeds up to 7,300MB/s and write speeds up to 6,800MB/s, ensuring fast game boots and data transfers.
The 2TB version offers increased storage and faster speeds, with a TBW rating of 1,200TB. Unfortunately, there's no 4TB option for those with larger game libraries.
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 great performance at a reasonable price. While its endurance rating is lower than the more expensive 990 Pro, it's more than sufficient for console use. The 2TB model has a TBW rating of 1,200TB.
The drive's read speed is up to 7,250MB/s, though the PS5 rates it at around 6,137MB/s. This is still fast enough for PS5 games, with load times slightly faster than the console's native drive.
Note that the Samsung 990 Evo Plus is a DRAM-less SSD, suitable for console use but not ideal for professional workloads. It doesn't come with a heatsink, so you'll need to purchase one separately.
WD_Black P40
Best External PS5 SSD
### WD_Black P40
11TB of storage with 2,000MB/s read speeds and a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connection make this an excellent external SSD. 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, offering a convenient alternative to internal upgrades. It connects via USB, making it compatible with PS5, Xbox, and PC. However, it can't run PS5 games, though it's perfect for storing and playing PS4 titles.
With read and write speeds of 2,000MB/s, it's significantly faster than traditional hard drives, ideal for quickly transferring data between consoles.
PS5 SSD FAQ
Is an SSD worth it for PS5?
The PS5's internal storage is limited, with about 650GB usable after system files. The PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro offer more storage, but for gamers with multiple games or those who play live service games, additional storage is crucial. An SSD is one of the best investments for expanding your PS5's capabilities.
What speed SSD should I get for PS5?
You need an SSD with a read speed of at least 5,500MB/s. Most PCIe 4.0 drives meet this requirement, and speeds above 6,500MB/s are ideal unless you're frequently transferring large files.
When is the best time to buy a PS5 SSD?
PS5 SSDs can be pricey, but prices have decreased over time. The best times to buy are during sales like Amazon Prime Day in July, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday, when significant discounts are available.
Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it for the PS5?
No, PCIe 5.0 SSDs aren't worth it for the PS5, as the console only supports PCIe 4.0. While PCIe 5.0 drives are backward compatible, the PS5 can't utilize their full speeds, making PCIe 4.0 SSDs a more cost-effective choice.
