Upgrade Your PS5 Storage: A Guide to the Best SSDs

For several console generations, gamers were limited by built-in storage. The PS5 changed this with its M.2 PCIe slot, allowing for easy SSD expansion beyond the console's initial 825GB (or 1TB for the Slim model). This guide explores the best SSD options for enhancing your PS5 experience.

TL;DR - Top PS5 SSD Picks:

Our Top Pick: Corsair MP600 Pro LPX See it at Amazon Best Budget: Crucial T500 See it at Amazon Best Without Heatsink: Samsung 990 Evo Plus See it at Best Buy Best External: WD_Black P40 See it at Amazon

PS5 SSD Essentials:

• Interface: Requires at least a PCIe 4.0 (Gen 4) drive for speeds up to 7,500MB/s. Gen 3 drives are significantly slower.
• Form Factor: M.2 is essential. While various sizes exist, the 2280 is the most common and recommended.
• Heatsink: Crucial due to PCIe 4.0 drives generating heat. The PS5's slot has limited airflow. Choose an SSD with a built-in heatsink (max 11.25mm height) or purchase a compatible separate heatsink.
• Capacity: 1TB is a popular choice, effectively doubling storage. Larger capacities (up to 8TB) are available but more expensive.

Detailed SSD Reviews:

1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: Excellent value with read speeds up to 7,100MB/s and a pre-installed heatsink. A 1TB model is often available for under $100. TBW rating of 700TB.

2. Crucial T500: Best budget option, offering high speeds (up to 7,300MB/s read) and a heatsink for around $100 (1TB). Uses Micron TLC 3D NAND. TBW rating of 600TB (1TB).

3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus: High performance at a competitive price. Read speeds up to 7,250MB/s. Doesn't include a heatsink; requires separate purchase. TBW varies by capacity (600TB for 1TB, 1200TB for 2TB, 2400TB for 4TB).

4. WD_Black P40: External SSD option (USB 3.2 Gen 2x2), offering 2,000MB/s read/write speeds. Cannot run PS5 games, but suitable for PS4 games and data storage. TBW rating of 600TB.

PS5 SSD FAQ:

• Is an SSD worthwhile? Yes, if you play multiple games or large live-service titles. The PS5's base storage fills quickly.
• Required SSD speed? 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 necessary? No, the PS5 doesn't utilize PCIe 5.0 speeds. PCIe 4.0 is sufficient.

Remember to consult our guide on PS5 storage upgrades for installation assistance. (replace bracketed links with actual links)