The PlayStation 5 represents a generational leap in gaming, with lightning-fast load times being one of its hallmark features. This speed is powered by a custom, ultra-high-speed SSD. However, with modern game installations often exceeding 100GB, the console’s built-in storage can fill up alarmingly fast. Fortunately, Sony enabled an M.2 SSD expansion slot, allowing you to seamlessly increase your storage capacity. But not just any SSD will do. This guide will help you choose the best SSD for your PS5 to ensure you get the same blistering performance the console was designed for. PS5 SSD Requirements: The Non-Negotiable Specs
Before diving into specific models, it’s crucial to understand the technical requirements set by Sony. An incompatible drive will not work or will severely hamper your PS5’s performance.
- Form Factor: M.2 NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen4 x4).
- Interface: PCIe 4.0 (Gen4) is mandatory. A Gen3 drive will physically fit but is not supported and will not function correctly.
- Capacity: 250GB to 4TB. For a serious game library, a 1TB or 2TB drive is the recommended sweet spot.
- Sequential Read Speed: 5,500 MB/s or faster is the official requirement. While some slightly slower drives may work, adhering to this ensures optimal performance.
- Form Factor: 22mm width, 30/40/60/80/110mm length. A 2280 drive (22mm wide, 80mm long) is the standard.
- Cooling Solution: The PS5’s SSD slot includes a metal cover and a small standoff for heat dissipation. Most high-performance Gen4 SSDs require an additional heatsink. You must purchase a drive with a built-in heatsink or install a compatible one yourself.
Top SSD Recommendations for PS5 in 2024
Based on performance, reliability, value, and community validation, these drives are consistently top performers for the PS5.
1. WD_BLACK SN850P with Heatsink
Western Digital collaborated directly with Sony, and the SN850P is the officially licensed SSD for PS5. It’s essentially the SN850—a performance champion—but comes with a perfectly fitted, sleek heatsink that guarantees compatibility with the PS5’s expansion bay.
- Key Features: Official PS5 licensing, exceptional read/write speeds (over 7,000 MB/s), and a purpose-built heatsink.
- Best For: Gamers seeking a guaranteed, hassle-free, top-tier installation.
2. Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink
A legendary name in the SSD market, the Samsung 980 Pro is a workhorse known for its reliability and blistering speeds. While Samsung now offers a 990 Pro, the 980 Pro remains more than fast enough for the PS5 and often can be found at an excellent price, especially the version with an integrated heatsink.
- Key Features: Trusted Samsung NAND and controller, consistent performance, and wide availability.
- Best For: Those who value brand reputation and proven reliability.
3. Seagate FireCuda 530 with Heatsink
The FireCuda 530 is one of the fastest consumer SSDs on the market, often outperforming the official requirement. It’s built for endurance and high-performance workloads, making it overqualified—in a good way—for gaming. It comes with a robust, pre-installed heatsink that is both effective and fits perfectly in the PS5.
- Key Features: Top-of-the-line speed, exceptional endurance rating, and a high-quality integrated heatsink.
- Best For: Enthusiasts who want the absolute fastest performance and future-proofing.
4. Crucial P5 Plus (Add Your Own Heatsink)
For the budget-conscious gamer who doesn’t mind a small DIY step, the Crucial P5 Plus is a fantastic value. It delivers excellent Gen4 performance that meets the PS5’s needs. The key is to purchase a separate, low-profile M.2 heatsink (readily available online) and install it before slotting the drive into your console.
- Key Features: Excellent price-to-performance ratio, reliable Micron NAND.
- Best For: Value seekers who are comfortable installing a third-party heatsink.
Installation and Final Thoughts
Installing an M.2 SSD in the PS5 is a straightforward process. You’ll need a #1 Phillips screwdriver, and Sony provides clear, step-by-step instructions. Simply power down the console, remove the white side panel, unscrew the SSD bay cover, insert the drive, secure it with the provided screw, and replace the cover.
Once formatted by the PS5 system software, the expanded storage becomes a seamless part of your console. You can choose to install and play PS5 games directly from it, just as you would from the internal SSD.
Conclusion: Expanding your PS5’s storage is one of the best investments you can make for your gaming setup. By choosing a drive from our recommended list—like the officially licensed WD_BLACK SN850P, the reliable Samsung 980 Pro, the performance-leading Seagate FireCuda 530, or the value-packed Crucial P5 Plus—you can rest assured that you’re getting a quality component that will keep you in the game without compromise.