Upgrading your PlayStation 5 storage feels transformative. Games load faster. The library grows. And crucially, you spend less time deleting installs. In 2025, the best PS5 SSDs deliver blistering speeds, dependable thermals, and great endurance. However, the PS5’s slot is PCIe 4.0 only. Therefore, PCIe 5.0 drives bring no performance gain on this console. Nevertheless, choosing right still matters. This guide explains the specs that count, the models we recommend, and how to install them safely.
PS5 SSD Requirements Explained
Sony defines the expansion slot tightly. Picking a compatible drive is simple once you track the key limits. However, fit and thermals still deserve attention. The following list summarizes the official requirements and practical considerations.
- Interface: M.2 NVMe, PCIe Gen4 x4.
- Form factor: 2280 is recommended. 2230/2242/2260/22110 are supported physically.
- Capacity: 250GB to 4TB.
- Sequential read: 5,500MB/s or faster recommended.
- Cooling: A heatsink or other cooling structure is required.
- Height clearance: Total height up to 11.25mm, including heatsink.
- Height above PCB: Up to 8mm from the top of the SSD.
- Height below PCB: Up to 2.45mm from the bottom of the SSD.
Those dimensions matter. Some aftermarket heatsinks exceed 8mm above the PCB. Consequently, the PS5 cover may not close properly. Always check thickness. Additionally, some PCIe 5.0 heatsinks use fans, which are usually too tall. Therefore, a low-profile heatsink is best for reliable fitment.
PCIe 4.0 vs PCIe 5.0 on PS5
The PS5’s storage interface is PCIe Gen4 x4. That interface already delivers exceptional bandwidth. Therefore, PCIe 5.0 drives will run at Gen4 speeds inside the PS5. You will not see faster loading times from Gen5 here. However, Gen5 drives can still be used if they physically fit and stay cool. Even then, gains are negligible on PS5. Consequently, most buyers should prioritize proven Gen4 drives with PS5-ready heatsinks. That approach saves money and minimizes hassle.
Best PCIe 4.0 SSDs for PS5 in 2025
These drives balance speed, firmware maturity, and thermal behavior. They also offer consistent controllers and flash. However, always verify the model’s exact heatsink height. Manufacturers sometimes revise designs. Therefore, double-check fit before purchasing.
Samsung 990 Pro Heatsink Edition
Why we recommend it
The 990 Pro delivers excellent sequential reads and great sustained performance. It also brings strong firmware, low idle power, and mature thermals. The official heatsink edition fits the PS5 bay neatly. Therefore, installation is quick and clean.
Performance and endurance
Sequential reads can reach around 7,450MB/s. Random responsiveness is strong. Endurance ratings are competitive for TLC flash. Moreover, Samsung’s five-year warranty inspires confidence. Firmware updates have addressed early health reporting quirks. Consequently, long-term reliability looks solid.
Best capacities for PS5
We like 2TB for modern libraries. However, 1TB works for selective players. The 4TB model offers maximum convenience if you want everything installed. Therefore, pick based on your library size and budget.
WD Black SN850X with Heatsink
Why we recommend it
The SN850X remains a PS5 favorite in 2025. Its heatsink edition is low-profile and proven. It also handles sustained writes well for large game transfers. Consequently, it is a safe and fast choice.
Performance and endurance
Expect up to 7,300MB/s reads on compatible capacities. Write consistency holds nicely during big file copies. Endurance is healthy thanks to TLC flash and WD’s mature controller. Moreover, the five-year warranty adds peace of mind.
Best capacities for PS5
We favor 2TB for most players. However, 1TB can suffice if you rotate a few titles. The 4TB model is the ultimate set-and-forget option.
Seagate FireCuda 530 Heatsink
Why we recommend it
The FireCuda 530 is known for high endurance ratings. It also uses a robust E18-based platform with fast TLC. Additionally, the EK-designed heatsink is slim and effective. Therefore, it is excellent for heavy downloaders.
Performance and endurance
Reads hit up to 7,300MB/s depending on capacity. Endurance ratings are among the best in its class. Moreover, Seagate offers a long warranty. Consequently, it suits power users who move large files frequently.
Best capacities for PS5
The 2TB version offers the best balance of cost and headroom. However, 4TB maximizes convenience for sprawling libraries.
Corsair MP600 Pro LPX
Why we recommend it
The MP600 Pro LPX is tuned for PS5 dimensions and thermals. The low-profile heatsink aligns well with the bay cover. It also offers consistent performance and broad availability. Therefore, it frequently undercuts premium pricing while staying fast.
Performance and endurance
Reads land around 7,100MB/s on supported capacities. The drive maintains reliable speeds during extended file copies. Moreover, Corsair backs it with a solid warranty.
Best capacities for PS5
Go 2TB if possible. However, 1TB can work for smaller libraries or secondary consoles.
Crucial T500 (Heatsink Version)
Why we recommend it
The T500 delivers high performance with efficient thermals. The heatsink version is PS5-friendly and slim. It also uses TLC flash with good endurance. Consequently, it is a strong new-gen Gen4 choice.
Performance and endurance
Sequential reads peak up to around 7,400MB/s. Random performance stays competitive under load. Moreover, firmware support is strong from Micron’s ecosystem.
Best capacities for PS5
2TB remains our recommendation for most users. However, the 1TB model is fine for lighter libraries.
Kingston Fury Renegade (Heatsink)
Why we recommend it
The Fury Renegade offers excellent read speeds and robust write behavior. Its heatsink model fits the PS5 slot without trouble. Moreover, Kingston’s component sourcing has remained consistent. Therefore, you get reliable TLC performance.
Performance and endurance
Reads can hit around 7,300MB/s. Sustained writes hold well for large game updates. Warranty coverage is solid for long-term use.
Best capacities for PS5
2TB is the sweet spot again. However, 4TB can be attractive if discounts appear.
MSI Spatium M480 Play
Why we recommend it
The M480 Play ships with a PS5-ready heatsink. It also brings consistent Gen4 performance and solid thermals. Moreover, pricing is often aggressive during sales. Consequently, it is a frequent value front-runner.
Performance and endurance
Reads typically land around 7,000MB/s to 7,400MB/s by capacity. Endurance is healthy for TLC-based workloads. Warranty support is competitive for this class.
Best capacities for PS5
We suggest 2TB for most users. However, 1TB is acceptable if you actively manage storage.
Lexar NM790 (With Slim Aftermarket Heatsink)
Why we recommend it
The NM790 delivers excellent price-to-performance. It is DRAM-less but highly optimized. However, it lacks a built-in PS5 heatsink in many regions. Therefore, pair it with a slim, PS5-compatible heatsink.
Performance and endurance
Reads can reach around 7,400MB/s on supported capacities. Thermal performance is good with proper cooling. Endurance is solid for modern TLC designs.
Best capacities for PS5
2TB remains the value leader. However, 1TB can be a cheap way to start.
Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus (With Sabrent PS5 Heatsink)
Why we recommend it
Sabrent’s PS5 heatsink replaces the expansion bay cover. This approach improves airflow and fit. The Rocket 4 Plus is a proven TLC drive. Consequently, it is a practical combo for PS5 storage expansion.
Performance and endurance
Reads hover around 7,100MB/s by capacity. Sustained writes are dependable. Moreover, Sabrent’s accessories simplify installation.
Best capacities for PS5
2TB and 4TB are both attractive if the price is right. However, 1TB still works on a budget.
Teamgroup T-Force Cardea A440
Why we recommend it
The Cardea A440 often includes interchangeable heatsinks. One is a slim graphene option. That variant can suit the PS5 slot. Therefore, it offers flexibility for compact cooling setups.
Performance and endurance
Expect up to around 7,000MB/s to 7,400MB/s reads. Endurance is competitive for TLC designs. Warranty terms are standard for this segment.
Best capacities for PS5
2TB is our recommended choice for most players. However, 1TB remains fine for focused libraries.
Best Budget PS5-Compatible SSDs in 2025
Budget does not have to mean slow. Several Gen4 drives now deliver PS5-ready speeds at sharp prices. However, pair bare drives with a PS5-compatible heatsink. Thermals matter during large installs and patches. Consequently, a slim cooler is essential for longevity.
Lexar NM790
We already highlighted the NM790 for value. However, it deserves a budget callout too. Pricing is frequently aggressive during sales. Therefore, the NM790 is a top pick when paired with a slim heatsink. It delivers fast reads and good sustained throughput for game installs.
Silicon Power XS70
The XS70 commonly ships with a low-profile heatsink. It delivers PS5-ready read speeds. Moreover, it competes on price against premium models. Consequently, it often undercuts bigger brands while staying fast.
XPG S70 Blade
The S70 Blade usually includes a slim graphene heatsink. Fitment in the PS5 slot is straightforward. Performance is solid for a Gen4 TLC drive. Additionally, sale pricing can be excellent. Therefore, it is an easy budget recommendation.
Teamgroup MP44
The MP44 brings strong Gen4 performance at lean prices. However, it typically ships without a chunky heatsink. Therefore, add a PS5-compatible slim cooler. With proper cooling, it runs swiftly and stays stable.
PNY CS3140
The CS3140 is an older Gen4 flagship that still performs well. It often appears with clearance pricing. Therefore, it can be a bargain. Pair it with a slim heatsink if your bundle lacks one.
Want the lowest price per terabyte today? Check our daily deal cards for PS5-ready NVMe drives. We surface the best $/TB options hourly. Therefore, you waste less time hunting.
Should You Buy a PCIe 5.0 SSD for PS5?
Short answer: probably not. The PS5 uses a Gen4 x4 interface. Therefore, Gen5 drives do not run any faster in the console. You also risk fitment issues with tall heatsinks. Moreover, many Gen5 designs generate more heat. Consequently, they require bulkier cooling solutions that exceed PS5 height limits.
If you still want Gen5, choose a bare drive with a very slim heatsink. The Crucial T700 bare model is one example to consider. However, measure twice before purchase. Additionally, accept that actual PS5 performance will match good Gen4 drives. Therefore, most buyers should save money and choose proven Gen4 options instead.
Curious about Gen5 models for PC builds? Explore our focused roundup in the related guide. You can compare controllers, thermals, and pricing trends there. See Best PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSDs for Gaming in 2025 for deeper analysis.
Best PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSDs for Gaming in 2025 – Hardware Deals
How Much Capacity Do You Need: 1TB vs 2TB vs 4TB
Modern games consume space quickly. Big AAA titles often exceed 100GB. Some live service games approach 200GB after updates. Therefore, capacity planning matters.
- 1TB: Works for minimalists and secondary consoles.
- 2TB: Best balance of headroom and price in 2025.
- 4TB: Ideal for massive libraries and frequent new releases.
Consider how many games you play concurrently. Also consider recording gameplay and clip storage. Those clips consume significant space. Additionally, expansion downloads and patches add overhead. Therefore, 2TB is the sweet spot for most players today.
QLC vs TLC NAND for PS5
TLC remains the safer bet for PS5 use. It offers stronger sustained writes and better endurance. Moreover, TLC behavior under SLC cache exhaustion is more predictable. QLC can throttle earlier during very large transfers. Consequently, installing multiple large games may take longer on QLC.
However, QLC drives can still function if they meet Sony’s speed guidance. They also cost less per terabyte. If you choose QLC, prioritize larger SLC caches and reliable firmware. Additionally, ensure a proper heatsink to help stability. Nevertheless, TLC is our general recommendation for long-term console storage.
Do You Need a Heatsink? Yes, and Here Is Why
The PS5’s storage bay has limited airflow. Thermal stress can reduce performance during big copies. It can also impact drive longevity. Therefore, a heatsink is required. Sony explicitly lists a cooling structure as part of the specification. Additionally, not all heatsinks fit. Height remains the critical constraint.
Choose a low-profile heatsink designed for the PS5. Some models replace the bay cover for better heat dissipation. Others slot underneath the cover while staying within height limits. Both approaches can work. However, avoid tall fin stacks and active fans. Those rarely fit and add noise.
PS5 Installation Guide: Step-by-Step
Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is straightforward. However, handle the drive gently. Avoid touching the gold contacts. Additionally, keep the drive aligned and level. The steps below outline the process.
Before you begin
- Turn off the PS5 completely. Do not use Rest Mode.
- Unplug all cables and place the console on a clean surface.
- Ground yourself to avoid static discharge.
- Have a small Phillips screwdriver ready.
Remove the side plate
- Lay the console with the PS logo facing down.
- Grip the bottom corner and slide the plate toward you.
- Lift gently once it disengages.
Open the M.2 expansion bay
- Locate the metal cover near the fan area.
- Unscrew the cover and set the screw aside.
- Remove the spacer screw inside the bay.
Install the SSD
- Adjust the spacer to match your drive length. Most drives are 80mm.
- Insert the SSD at an angle into the M.2 slot.
- Press it down gently and secure it with the spacer screw.
Attach the heatsink and close
- Ensure the heatsink sits flat and within height limits.
- Reinstall the bay cover and tighten the screw lightly.
- Slide the side plate back until it clicks.
Format and verify
- Reconnect cables and power on the PS5.
- Follow the on-screen prompt to format the M.2 SSD.
- Confirm the reported read speed and available capacity.
What Read Speed Should You Expect?
The PS5 reports a single read speed after formatting. This number reflects the console’s internal test. It often differs slightly from vendor specs. However, anything near or above 5,500MB/s is fine. Game loading is also influenced by firmware and random performance. Therefore, do not obsess over minor speed differences. Focus on proven compatibility, thermals, and endurance.
Copying Games and Managing Storage
Large transfers will warm the SSD and the PS5. This is normal. However, avoid blocking vents. Ensure the console has space for airflow. Additionally, use the console’s storage settings to move games between internal and M.2 storage. You can also delete and reinstall later if needed. The PS5 will handle game placement automatically once you set the default install location.
Endurance, TBW, and Warranty
Endurance is measured in terabytes written, or TBW. Higher TBW ratings indicate more rewrite cycles before wear limits. TLC drives usually carry stronger TBW values. QLC models can be lower. However, normal console use rarely reaches TBW limits within five years. Therefore, warranty length and vendor support can be more meaningful day-to-day. Additionally, keep firmware updated when vendors release improvements. That helps stability and health reporting.
Deeper Performance Factors That Matter
Sequential speeds dominate marketing sheets. However, console workloads are mixed. Random read performance and latency matter too. Additionally, firmware behavior during SLC cache exhaustion affects sustained write speeds. Some drives recover faster under sustained pressure. Therefore, a model’s consistency can matter more than peak numbers.
Thermal management also influences performance. Drives without adequate cooling can throttle during big patches. The PS5 bay is compact. Consequently, a well-designed slim heatsink is vital. It keeps temperatures in check without exceeding height limits.
Deals, Pricing Trends, and When to Buy
SSD pricing remains volatile. Seasonal sales often produce excellent $/TB deals. Therefore, tracking prices helps. You can watch our NVMe deal hub for daily updates. It aggregates the best discounts by capacity and interface. Additionally, you can filter for PS5-ready specs.
Best NVMe SSD Deals (Updated Daily) – Hardware Deals
You can also visit our broader drive hub for a wider view. It includes SSDs and HDDs, plus category filters. Consequently, it is helpful for backups and external storage planning.
Best Hard Drive & SSD Deals (Updated Daily) – Hardware Deals
Our Top PS5 SSD Picks by Use Case
Best overall
- Samsung 990 Pro Heatsink Edition.
- WD Black SN850X with Heatsink.
- Seagate FireCuda 530 Heatsink.
Best budget
- Lexar NM790 plus slim heatsink.
- Silicon Power XS70.
- XPG S70 Blade.
Best for maximum capacity
- WD Black SN850X 4TB.
- Seagate FireCuda 530 4TB.
- Kingston Fury Renegade 4TB.
Best for low-profile cooling
- Corsair MP600 Pro LPX.
- MSI Spatium M480 Play.
- Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus with PS5 heatsink.
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
PS5 does not detect the SSD
- Power off fully and reseat the drive.
- Ensure the spacer screw is not shorting contacts.
- Verify the M.2 connector is fully inserted.
- Update PS5 system software to the latest version.
Drive runs hot or throttles
- Confirm the heatsink is attached correctly.
- Use a low-profile heatsink with better contact surfaces.
- Ensure the side panel closes fully for designed airflow.
- Improve room ventilation or move the console out of a cabinet.
Slow copies or stutter during installs
- Free up space and avoid copying several huge games at once.
- Check if the drive is QLC and the SLC cache is exhausted.
- Pause and resume large downloads to cool the drive slightly.
PS5 vs PC SSD Priorities
PC benchmarks often highlight peak sequential speeds. However, the PS5’s workload is narrower. It relies on streaming assets efficiently from NVMe. Therefore, a well-tuned Gen4 TLC drive with a slim heatsink is ideal. Overclocked or exotic heatsinks bring little benefit. Additionally, PCIe 5.0 controllers do not help here. Consequently, focus on proven Gen4 models with consistent firmware.
What About External Drives for PS5?
External drives are fine for PS4 games and storage management. However, PS5 titles must run from internal or M.2 storage. Therefore, use externals for backups and cold storage. Move PS5 titles back when needed. This setup saves time and bandwidth during re-downloads. Additionally, using a large external drive can simplify library rotation.
Related Guides and Deep Dives
Want a broader look at gaming SSDs and performance tradeoffs? Start with our cornerstone NVMe guide. It covers controllers, thermals, and endurance in depth. Therefore, it complements this PS5-focused list nicely.
Best NVMe SSDs for Gaming in 2025 – Hardware Deals
If you are shopping on a strict budget, compare our value-focused picks. It highlights where compromises do and do not matter. Consequently, you can buy confidently without overspending.
Best Budget NVMe SSDs for Gaming 2025 – Hardware Deals
If you are also upgrading other components, consider visiting our site hubs. They track live prices on GPUs, RAM, and storage. Therefore, you can time purchases around the best discounts.
Best Hardware Deals – GPUs, RAM & More (Updated Daily)
FAQ: PS5 SSD Upgrades in 2025
Will a PCIe 5.0 SSD make my PS5 faster?
No. The PS5 interface is Gen4 x4 only. Therefore, Gen5 drives operate at Gen4 speeds in the slot. A good Gen4 TLC drive performs just as well in the console.
Do I need a heatsink?
Yes. A cooling structure is required. Additionally, choose a low-profile design that fits within height limits. Proper cooling prevents throttling during big installs.
What capacity should I buy?
2TB is ideal for most players today. It balances cost and headroom. However, 1TB works for smaller libraries. 4TB suits large collections with constant updates.
Is QLC okay for PS5?
It can work if speeds meet Sony’s guidance. However, TLC is recommended for better sustained performance and endurance.
How do I check if my heatsink fits?
Verify total height is 11.25mm or less. Also ensure the portion above the PCB is 8mm or less. Review vendor dimensions carefully before buying.
Are 2230 or 22110 drives recommended?
2280 is the simplest and most widely supported. Other sizes can fit mechanically. However, 2280 offers the broadest choice and easiest compatibility.
Will my PS5 warranty be affected?
Using the M.2 slot is an intended user upgrade. Therefore, it does not void the warranty. Handle components carefully to avoid damage.
Should I prioritize sequential read speed only?
No. Firmware quality, thermals, and random responsiveness also matter. Therefore, choose drives with proven consistency and PS5-friendly cooling.
Testing and Selection Methodology
We evaluate PS5 SSDs using repeatable, console-relevant criteria. This approach prioritizes real user experience. However, we also consider PC-based test data for context. The following pillars guide our selections.
- PS5 formatting read speed and stability under sustained copies.
- Thermal behavior with PS5-compatible slim heatsinks.
- Controller and NAND consistency across capacities.
- Endurance ratings and warranty terms.
- Price-to-performance and $/TB trends.
- Availability and historical firmware support.
We also monitor long-term owner reports and firmware releases. Additionally, we compare deal pricing across retailers daily. Consequently, our picks evolve as inventories and prices change. You can review our approach on our methodology page for full transparency.
The Bottom Line
In 2025, the best PS5 storage upgrade remains a PCIe 4.0 TLC NVMe with a slim heatsink. You gain quick loading, reliable installs, and painless fitment. Moreover, you avoid paying extra for unused Gen5 bandwidth. Therefore, prioritize proven Gen4 models like the Samsung 990 Pro, WD Black SN850X, and FireCuda 530. Budget buyers should consider the Lexar NM790, XS70, or S70 Blade with proper cooling. Finally, choose 2TB if funds allow. That capacity hits the sweet spot for modern libraries.
Continue Your Research
Want to dive deeper into SSD tech and platform differences? Our cornerstone NVMe guide covers controllers and flash types thoroughly. It also highlights how firmware shapes real-world performance. Therefore, it pairs well with this PS5-focused roundup.
Best NVMe SSDs for Gaming in 2025 – Hardware Deals
Hunting for the week’s lowest $/TB? Our NVMe deal hub updates daily with fresh picks. Consequently, you will catch short-lived discounts before they disappear.
Best NVMe SSD Deals (Updated Daily) – Hardware Deals
If you also build or upgrade PCs, our broader deals homepage can help. It aggregates GPUs, RAM, and storage offers in one place. Additionally, it is a great bookmark during seasonal sales.