This guide explores the best SSDs to enhance your PlayStation 5's storage. The PS5's limited internal storage often necessitates expansion, and thankfully, Sony included an M.2 PCIe slot for this purpose. This allows for significantly faster load times compared to the console's built-in drive.
TL;DR - Best PS5 SSDs:
Our Top Pick: Corsair MP600 Pro LPX (See it on Amazon!)
Best Budget: Crucial T500 (See it on Amazon!)
Best Without Heatsink: Samsung 990 Evo Plus (See it at Best Buy!)
Best External: WD_Black P40 (See it on Amazon!)
PS5 SSD Considerations:
- PCIe 4.0 (or higher): Essential for optimal speeds (up to 7,500MB/s). PCIe 5.0 drives are compatible but offer no performance advantage on the PS5.
- M.2 Form Factor: While size variations exist, the 2280 is most common.
- Heatsink: Crucial for preventing overheating, especially with PCIe 4.0 drives. Many SSDs include one; otherwise, purchase a compatible one (max 11.25mm height).
- Capacity: 1TB is a popular choice, doubling the console's storage. Larger capacities (up to 8TB) are available but more expensive.
- Warranty and TBW (Terabytes Written): Check the warranty period and TBW rating for an indication of drive longevity. TLC NAND is a good balance of performance and endurance for gaming.
Detailed SSD Reviews:
1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: Excellent value, high read speeds (7,100MB/s), includes heatsink. A strong contender despite not being the absolute fastest.
Product Specifications:
- Capacity: 1TB
- Sequential Read Speed: 7,100MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed: 5,800MB/s
- NAND Type: 3D TLC
- TBW: 700TB
2. Crucial T500: Best budget option, high speeds (7,300MB/s read), includes heatsink, excellent value for the price.
Product Specifications:
- Capacity: 1TB
- Sequential Read Speed: 7,300MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed: 6,800MB/s
- NAND Type: Micron TLC
- TBW: 600TB
3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus: Excellent performance, fast load times, but requires a separate heatsink.
Product Specifications:
- Capacity: 1TB – 4TB
- Sequential Read Speed: 7,250MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed: 6,300MB/s
- NAND Type: Samsung V-NAND TLC
- TBW: 600TB (1TB), 1200TB (2TB), 2400TB (4TB)
4. WD_Black P40: External SSD option, faster than traditional hard drives (2,000MB/s read), but cannot run PS5 games directly. Useful for PS4 games and data transfer.
Product Specifications:
- Capacity: 1TB
- Sequential Read Speed: 2,000MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed: 2,000MB/s
- NAND Type: WD TLC
- TBW: 600TB
PS5 SSD FAQ:
- Is an SSD worth it? Yes, if you play multiple games or live-service titles that frequently update.
- 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 their full potential.
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Remember to consult our guide on PS5 storage upgrades for installation assistance.
