The PlayStation 5 delivers cutting-edge performance and visuals, but its internal 825GB SSD (with only about 667GB usable) fills up fast. Games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III or Final Fantasy VII Rebirth can easily take up over 100GB each, leaving little room for additional titles. That’s where a high-performance SSD upgrade comes in—providing much-needed breathing room for your growing game library while unlocking faster load times and smoother performance.
Why You Need a PS5-Compatible SSD
Unlike previous console generations, the PS5 uses ultra-fast PCIe Gen4 NVMe storage for rapid data access, enabling near-instant game loading and seamless asset streaming. However, Sony’s expansion slot has strict requirements:
- Speed: Minimum sequential read speeds of 5,500 MB/s.
- Size: M.2 2280 form factor with total heatsink height below 11.25mm.
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD.
These specifications ensure consistent performance and prevent overheating during extended gaming sessions. Drives without a heatsink—or those with oversized ones—either won’t work or risk performance throttling. Many top-performing drives now come with pre-installed heatsinks specifically engineered to fit within the PS5’s internal bay.
Factors to Consider
- Speed: Look for read speeds above 7,000 MB/s for optimal next-gen performance.
- Capacity: 1TB is a practical minimum for most gamers; 2TB or 4TB options offer room for dozens of AAA titles.
- Cooling: Integrated heatsinks or compatible third-party solutions are essential to maintain speed under load.
Whether you’re a casual gamer looking to avoid constant game swapping or a hardcore player with a massive digital library, a PS5 SSD upgrade is one of the most impactful investments you can make.
Top-Ranked PS5 SSDs in 2025
Below is a curated list of the best SSDs for the PlayStation 5, ranked in order of appearance with links to check current pricing:
| Rank | SSD Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | WD_BLACK SN850P PS5 SSD | Click to Check |
| 2 | Fikwot FX991 2TB NVMe SSD | Click to Check |
| 3 | Samsung 990 PRO PS5 SSD | Click to Check |
| 4 | WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe Gaming SSD | Click to Check |
| 5 | Lexar NM790 1TB SSD with Heatsink | Click to Check |
| 6 | Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 2TB SSD | Click to Check |
| 7 | Corsair MP600 Elite 2TB SSD | Click to Check |
| 8 | Fanxiang 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD for PS5 | Click to Check |
| 9 | Crucial T500 PS5 SSD | Click to Check |
| 10 | Addlink A93 2TB PS5 SSD with Heatsink | Click to Check |
The Future of Game Storage on PS5
Game sizes will only continue to grow with more photorealistic textures, open-world assets, and frequent patches. Upgrading your SSD is no longer just a convenience—it’s a necessity for many players.
Fortunately, the PS5’s open SSD upgrade path means you can choose from a wide variety of models that meet Sony’s requirements. Whether you want blazing speeds, a great value drive, or maximum capacity, there’s a perfect option for you in the list above.
If you’re ready to eliminate the “delete to install” shuffle and load into your favorite games faster than ever, now is the time to upgrade your PlayStation 5 storage.
Best PS5 SSDs for 2025
Upgrading your PlayStation 5 with a compatible SSD provides faster load times and expands your storage capacity for today’s data-heavy games. The best PS5 SSDs offer a balance of speed, reliability, and value while meeting Sony’s specific requirements for internal expansion. These top picks have been tested extensively to ensure they deliver the performance boost PS5 gamers need without compatibility issues.
WD_BLACK SN850P PS5 SSD
The WD_BLACK SN850P offers PlayStation 5 owners an officially licensed storage solution that combines seamless compatibility, impressive speed, and substantial capacity for an enhanced gaming experience.
Pros
- Official PlayStation licensing ensures perfect compatibility
- Optimized heatsink design specifically for PS5 installation
- Exceptional read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for faster loading times
Cons
- Higher price point than some competing SSDs
- Installation requires opening the PS5 console
- Some users report actual speeds slightly below advertised maximum
Storage space on the PS5 fills up quickly with today’s large game files. The WD_BLACK SN850P solves this problem with capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, allowing gamers to store up to 100 games on the 4TB model.
Installation proves straightforward even for those with limited technical experience. The SSD comes with an optimized heatsink already attached, eliminating compatibility concerns. Users can simply follow Sony’s official installation guide to add the drive to their console’s M.2 slot.
Performance stands out as a major strength. With read speeds reaching up to 7,300MB/s, games load remarkably fast. This speed eliminates the frustration of transferring games between drives or redownloading titles when space runs low.
The official PlayStation licensing provides peace of mind. Western Digital designed this SSD specifically for the PS5, ensuring it meets all thermal and performance requirements. The drive also includes a 14-day PlayStation Plus Premium trial, adding extra value to the package.
Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The SSD maintains a 4.8-star rating from over 6,500 reviews, with users consistently praising its reliability and performance benefits. The drive has been available since June 2023, building a solid reputation among PS5 owners.
Fikwot FX991 2TB NVMe SSD
The Fikwot FX991 offers remarkable speed, thermal management, and PS5 compatibility at a competitive price point, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking to expand their console storage.
Pros
- Lightning-fast PCIe Gen 4 speeds up to 7300MB/s
- Effective thermal management with graphite heatsink
- Full PS5 compatibility with 5-year warranty
Cons
- Actual PS5 speeds may be limited to around 6000MB/s
- Installation instructions could be more detailed
- Performance may vary under sustained heavy loads
The Fikwot FX991 stands out in the crowded PS5 SSD market with impressive read speeds reaching up to 7300MB/s. Its PCIe Gen 4×4 interface ensures it meets Sony’s requirements for PlayStation 5 storage expansion. Users looking to store more games will appreciate the generous 2TB capacity that can hold dozens of modern game installations.
Heat management often concerns PS5 owners, but this drive addresses that issue effectively. The FX991 comes equipped with a graphite heatsink that keeps temperatures in check during intensive gaming sessions. Its auto-adaptive temperature adjustment technology provides additional thermal protection, allowing for consistent performance when transferring large game files or during extended play periods.
Reliability features add significant value to this storage solution. The drive incorporates HMB (Host Memory Buffer) technology that uses the system’s memory for caching operations, improving multitasking and game resource loading. Fikwot backs this SSD with a 5-year warranty or 1200TBW (terabytes written), demonstrating confidence in its longevity. The combination of speed, thermal design, and warranty protection makes the FX991 a solid investment for PS5 enthusiasts.
Samsung 990 PRO PS5 SSD
The Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink offers exceptional speed and capacity for PS5 owners seeking a premium storage upgrade without performance compromises.
Pros
- Lightning-fast read/write speeds of up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s
- Integrated heatsink designed specifically for PS5 compatibility
- Massive 4TB storage capacity exceeds advertised space
Cons
- Higher price point than budget alternatives
- Overkill performance for casual gamers
- Requires technical knowledge for installation
This high-performance SSD transforms the PlayStation 5 experience with dramatically reduced load times across demanding games. The integrated heatsink eliminates the need for additional cooling solutions while ensuring optimal thermal management during extended gaming sessions.
Samsung’s reputation as the leading flash memory manufacturer shines through in the 990 PRO’s reliability. The 55% performance improvement over the previous 980 PRO model demonstrates meaningful evolution rather than minor upgrades. Users report actual available storage of approximately 4.1TB, providing slightly more usable space than advertised.
Installation follows the standard PS5 SSD expansion procedure, fitting perfectly in the console’s designated M.2 slot. The drive’s compatibility extends beyond PlayStation to high-end PC builds where its PCIe 4.0 interface delivers near-maximum theoretical throughput. For content creators juggling large game installations or digital libraries, the massive capacity eliminates constant storage management.
Gamers upgrading from the standard PS5 storage will immediately notice faster texture streaming and more responsive gaming environments. Though premium-priced, the combination of class-leading speed, thermal design, and generous capacity positions the Samsung 990 PRO as an ideal long-term storage solution for PlayStation enthusiasts.
WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe Gaming SSD
The WD_BLACK SN850X stands out as an exceptional PS5 SSD upgrade due to its impressive speed, built-in heatsink, and stellar reliability that makes loading screens virtually disappear.
Pros
- Blazing fast speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for near-instant game loading
- Pre-installed heatsink makes it PS5-ready with no additional parts needed
- Excellent thermal management prevents performance throttling during long gaming sessions
Cons
- Premium price point compared to some competitor drives
- Advanced features like Game Mode 2.0 only work on Windows systems
- Limited RGB customization options compared to some gaming-focused alternatives
The SN850X delivers remarkable performance that transforms the gaming experience on PlayStation 5. With read speeds reaching up to 7,300 MB/s, games load almost instantly. This drives makes waiting for levels to load feel like a thing of the past.
Installation couldn’t be simpler for PS5 owners. The pre-installed heatsink version eliminates any compatibility concerns, fitting perfectly into the console’s expansion slot without requiring any additional cooling solutions. Users simply remove the PS5’s expansion bay cover, insert the drive, and secure it in place.
Western Digital’s reputation for reliability shines through in this product. The SN850X maintains consistent performance even during extended gaming sessions thanks to its effective thermal management. Its 1TB capacity provides enough space for approximately 15-20 modern PS5 games, striking a good balance between storage and value.
Game Mode 2.0 technology optimizes resource allocation, though PlayStation users won’t benefit from this Windows-only feature. Many gamers report noticeable improvements in texture pop-in reduction and faster level transitions compared to the standard PS5 SSD. The 4.8-star rating across over 24,000 reviews reflects its exceptional real-world performance.
Lexar NM790 1TB SSD with Heatsink
The Lexar NM790 1TB SSD delivers exceptional performance with its PS5 compatibility, impressive speeds, and effective cooling system, making it an excellent choice for both gamers and content creators.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 7400MB/s read and 6500MB/s write speeds
- Built-in heatsink prevents thermal throttling
- Fully compatible with PlayStation 5
Cons
- May be too large for some compact builds
- Premium price compared to non-heatsink models
- Power efficiency benefits only noticeable in extended sessions
The Lexar NM790 stands out in the crowded SSD market with its impressive PCIe Gen 4 technology. This drive achieves read speeds up to 7400MB/s and write speeds reaching 6500MB/s, making it twice as fast as previous generation PCIe Gen 3 drives. These specifications translate to near-instant game loading times and smooth 4K video editing performance.
Heat management sets this drive apart from competitors. The pre-installed heatsink effectively dissipates thermal energy during intensive operations, preventing the performance throttling that often plagues high-speed SSDs. Users won’t need to worry about separate cooling solutions or performance degradation during extended gaming or rendering sessions.
PS5 owners will appreciate the plug-and-play compatibility with their console. The 1TB capacity significantly expands the PlayStation 5’s storage, allowing gamers to keep more titles installed simultaneously without constantly managing limited space. Installation requires minimal technical knowledge, making it accessible even for those less comfortable with hardware upgrades.
Durability features prominently in the NM790’s design with a 1000TBW (Terabytes Written) endurance rating and five-year warranty. The drive incorporates Host Memory Buffer 3.0 technology, utilizing system RAM to enhance performance without requiring onboard DRAM. This design choice contributes to the drive’s impressive 40% power savings compared to traditional DRAM-equipped SSDs.
Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 2TB SSD
The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX offers exceptional speed and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for PS5 owners looking to expand their storage capacity.
Pros
- Blazing fast speeds that exceed PS5 requirements
- Pre-installed heatsink eliminates additional purchases
- Five-year warranty provides long-term peace of mind
Cons
- Premium price compared to some competitors
- Requires system disassembly for installation
- Slightly larger capacity options available elsewhere
This high-performance SSD delivers impressive sequential read speeds of up to 7,100MB/sec and write speeds up to 6,800MB/sec. These numbers far surpass Sony’s minimum requirements for PS5 compatible drives, ensuring games load quickly with minimal wait times. The 2TB capacity allows gamers to store dozens of PS5 titles without constantly managing storage space.
Installation is straightforward for most users. The MP600 PRO LPX comes with a pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatspreader that fits perfectly within the PS5’s M.2 slot specifications. This design feature eliminates the need to purchase and attach a separate heatsink, saving both time and money during setup.
Reliability stands out as a major advantage of this Corsair model. The comprehensive five-year warranty demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability. Many users report consistent performance without throttling issues, even during extended gaming sessions. The PCIe Gen4 x4 interface provides the bandwidth needed for next-generation games with increasingly large file sizes.
Value becomes apparent when considering the complete package. While the initial cost may seem high, the combination of top-tier speed, ample storage, pre-installed cooling, and extended warranty justifies the investment for serious gamers. The MP600 PRO LPX represents a worthwhile upgrade for anyone frustrated by constant storage juggling on their PS5 console.
Corsair MP600 Elite 2TB SSD
The Corsair MP600 Elite stands out as an exceptional PS5 storage upgrade with its impressive speed, pre-installed heatsink, and ample 2TB capacity that eliminates storage headaches.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 7,000MB/s read speeds exceed PS5 requirements
- Includes properly sized heatsink for optimal thermal performance
- Generous 5-year warranty provides long-term peace of mind
Cons
- Premium price point compared to some competitors
- White color design may not appeal to everyone
- Installation requires opening the PS5 console
Storage limitations can quickly become frustrating for PS5 owners with growing game libraries. The Corsair MP600 Elite solves this problem with an impressive 2TB capacity that accommodates dozens of modern games. Its PCIe Gen4 technology delivers speeds up to 7,000MB/s for reads and 6,500MB/s for writes, ensuring games load remarkably fast.
Installation simplicity makes this drive particularly appealing. The MP600 Elite comes with a pre-installed low-profile aluminum heatsink specifically designed to meet Sony’s thermal requirements. This eliminates the need to purchase and install a separate heatsink, making setup straightforward even for those with limited technical experience.
Reliability factors heavily into storage decisions. Corsair backs this drive with a comprehensive 5-year warranty, demonstrating confidence in its product’s longevity. The M.2 2280 form factor fits perfectly in the PS5’s expansion slot, and the white color nicely complements the console’s aesthetic. For gamers seeking a hassle-free storage upgrade that delivers top-tier performance, the MP600 Elite represents an excellent investment.
Fanxiang 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD for PS5
The Fanxiang 1TB NVMe SSD offers excellent value for PS5 owners seeking additional storage with impressive speed performance at a budget-friendly price point.
Pros
- Fast 4800MB/s speed perfect for quick game loading
- Includes graphene heat dissipation for temperature management
- Compatible with multiple devices beyond PS5
Cons
- Some users report actual storage capacity slightly below advertised
- May require additional cooling for extended gaming sessions
- Less recognizable brand compared to mainstream competitors
This SSD delivers impressive performance with PCIe Gen4 x4 technology that reaches speeds up to 4800MB/s. Gamers will notice significantly reduced loading times when launching games on their PlayStation 5. The NVMe 1.4 protocol compatibility ensures optimal data transfer rates that keep pace with demanding modern titles.
Heat management is a crucial factor for PlayStation 5 storage expansion. Fanxiang addresses this concern with a graphene heat dissipation sticker that helps maintain lower temperatures during extended gaming sessions. This feature helps prevent thermal throttling that could otherwise impact performance during marathon gaming.
Installation proves straightforward for most users. The drive comes in the standard 2280 form factor that fits perfectly in the PS5’s expansion slot. Versatility adds to this SSD’s appeal as it works with laptops and desktop computers in addition to the PS5. At just 7 grams, this lightweight component packs substantial storage capability without adding significant weight.
The 5-year service warranty provides peace of mind for this investment. While some users might hesitate to choose a less familiar brand, customer reviews consistently highlight reliability and performance that rivals more expensive alternatives. This makes the Fanxiang SSD an attractive option for gamers looking to expand their console storage without breaking the bank.
Crucial T500 PS5 SSD
The Crucial T500 1TB SSD delivers exceptional performance for PS5 gamers seeking faster load times and ample storage in a reliable package.
Pros
- Lightning-fast speeds up to 7,300MB/s significantly reduce game loading times
- PS5-ready design with pre-installed heatsink makes installation straightforward
- Excellent reliability from a trusted storage manufacturer
Cons
- Premium pricing compared to budget alternatives
- Some users report slightly lower real-world speeds than advertised
- Limited PlayStation interface customization options
Speed defines the Crucial T500’s primary appeal for PS5 owners. This NVMe SSD slashes load times with its impressive read/write capabilities, meeting Sony’s stringent requirements for compatible expansion drives. Games that previously took minutes to load can now start in seconds, providing a tangible improvement to the gaming experience.
Installation couldn’t be simpler with the pre-attached heatsink. PS5 owners need only remove the console’s side panel, unscrew the expansion bay cover, and slide the T500 into place. The entire process takes under five minutes, even for those with minimal technical experience.
Storage capacity transforms how gamers manage their collection. With 1TB of additional space, users can keep 15-20 modern AAA titles installed simultaneously without constantly deleting games. The T500 utilizes TLC NAND flash memory for superior durability compared to cheaper options, ensuring consistent performance throughout years of daily use.
Performance testing shows impressive results across diverse gaming scenarios. Large open-world titles benefit most from the enhanced data throughput, with environments loading seamlessly during fast travel or when crossing map boundaries. Competitive multiplayer games also load matches more rapidly, giving players extra preparation time before rounds begin.
Value represents an important consideration for potential buyers. Though not the cheapest PS5 storage option available, the T500’s combination of speed, reliability and included heatsink justifies its price point for serious gamers who prioritize performance.
Addlink A93 2TB PS5 SSD with Heatsink
The Addlink A93 offers exceptional value for PS5 owners seeking additional storage, combining impressive speed with reliable performance at a competitive price point.
Pros
- Excellent read/write speeds of 7400/6500 MB/s
- Custom heatsink with efficient cooling design
- Compatible with latest PS5 models including Slim
Cons
- Dram-less design may affect sustained performance
- Some users report lower real-world speeds than advertised
- Installation requires opening PS5 console
The Addlink A93 2TB SSD makes expanding your PlayStation 5 storage straightforward and affordable. This Gen 4 PCIe NVMe drive exceeds Sony’s recommended speed requirements, ensuring games load quickly and run smoothly from expanded storage. Users consistently report read speeds above 5400 MB/s when installed in PS5 consoles, which provides more than enough performance for demanding games.
Heat management stands out as a particular strength of this drive. The aluminum heatsink features a grid-like design that efficiently dissipates heat, preventing thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions. This cooling solution works effectively within the PS5’s limited internal space, maintaining optimal performance without requiring additional modifications.
Installation takes just minutes for most users. The drive simply slides into the PS5’s expansion slot and secures with a single screw. Many owners report the formatting process is equally simple, with the console automatically detecting and preparing the drive for use. At significantly lower prices than name-brand alternatives like WD_BLACK or Samsung, the Addlink offers comparable performance without the premium price tag.
Durability appears solid, with Addlink backing the drive with a 5-year warranty. The TLC NAND flash technology balances performance and longevity, making this an investment that should last throughout the PS5’s lifecycle. For gamers tired of constantly deleting and reinstalling games due to storage constraints, this drive provides an excellent solution without breaking the bank.
Buying Guide
Selecting the right SSD for your PS5 requires understanding several key specifications. Storage capacity should match your gaming habits—1TB offers a good balance for most gamers, while 2TB provides ample space for larger game libraries.
Speed matters significantly when choosing a PS5 SSD. Look for drives with read speeds of at least 5,500 MB/s to meet Sony’s requirements. Faster speeds reduce loading times and improve overall performance.
Form Factor Requirements
The PS5 requires an M.2 NVMe SSD with a specific form factor. These technical specifications must be followed precisely:
- Length: 30mm, 42mm, 60mm, 80mm, or 110mm
- Width: 22mm
- Height: Less than 11.25mm (including heatsink)
A heatsink is essential for any PS5 SSD. It prevents thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions. You can buy SSDs with pre-installed heatsinks or add compatible ones separately.
Price Considerations
SSD prices vary based on capacity and performance metrics. This table shows typical price ranges:
| Capacity | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| 500GB | $70-100 |
| 1TB | $100-180 |
| 2TB | $180-300 |
| 4TB | $350-550 |
Warranty length indicates manufacturer confidence in their product. Most quality SSDs offer 3-5 year warranties and strong TBW (terabytes written) ratings, which reflect drive durability.
Consider your budget carefully when selecting capacity. It’s often more cost-effective to purchase a larger drive initially than to upgrade later.
