Upgrading Your PS5 Storage: The Easiest and Fastest NVMe SSDs to Install
Running out of space on your PlayStation 5? The PS5 comes with an internal 825GB SSD, but only around 667GB is usable. With modern games like Call of Duty and Spider-Man 2 easily exceeding 100GB, your storage can fill up fast. That means frequent deleting and reinstalling games, which wastes time and ruins the gaming flow.
The good news? You can upgrade your PS5 storage by installing a high-speed M.2 NVMe SSD. This expansion gives you more space for games and faster load times, making your gaming experience smoother. Plus, installing an SSD in your PS5 is easier than you might think.
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the PS5 SSD upgrade process. You’ll learn about the best NVMe SSDs for PS5, Sony’s compatibility rules, and a simple step-by-step guide on how to install PS5 SSD. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned gamer, this guide has you covered.
Why Upgrade Your PS5 Storage?
Game sizes have exploded in recent years. With blockbuster titles topping 100GB or more, the PS5’s built-in SSD can quickly run out of space. If you’re constantly uninstalling games just to make room for new ones, an SSD upgrade is the perfect solution.
Why not just use an external drive? External USB drives let you store PS4 games and PS5 games you’re not currently playing, but you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external drive. Only internal M.2 NVMe SSDs let you run PS5 games with full speed and performance.
Upgrading your PS5 storage with a compatible NVMe SSD means:
- More space for your games: No need to delete and reinstall constantly.
- Faster load times: Experience game loading as fast as or faster than the built-in SSD.
- Seamless gameplay: Run PS5 games directly from your new SSD.
If you want a best NVMe for PS5 that combines speed, reliability, and capacity, keep reading to discover top options.
Also read Best SSD for Gaming in 2025
Sony’s SSD Requirements for PS5:
Not all SSDs work with the PS5. Sony has set clear requirements to ensure your upgraded storage performs correctly and safely.
What Sony requires:
- Interface: PCIe Gen 4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD (this is crucial for speed).
- Minimum Read Speed: 5,500 MB/s sequential read speed.
- Form Factor: M-Key type SSD with sizes 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110.
- Maximum Dimensions: 110mm (length) x 25mm (width) x 11.25mm (height) including heatsink.
- Heatsink: Mandatory to prevent overheating and maintain performance.
Why is a heatsink so important?
NVMe SSDs get hot during gaming sessions. Without proper cooling, the SSD can throttle (slow down) or get damaged. Sony requires a heatsink either built-in or attached after purchase.
- Some SSDs come with a pre-installed heatsink, which makes installation simpler.
- If your SSD doesn’t have one, you’ll need to buy a compatible third-party heatsink and install it before putting the SSD in your PS5.
Additional notes:
- Your PS5 must be updated to the latest system software before installing an SSD.
- Installing a new SSD requires formatting the drive, which deletes all data on it.
- Always back up game saves before upgrading.
For official details, visit Sony’s PS5 storage expansion page.
Best NVMe SSDs for PS5 in 2025:
Below are the top picks for 2025 — each carefully selected based on performance, price, and ease of installation.
1. WD_Black SN850P – Officially Licensed and Ready to Go
Overview: The WD_Black SN850P is Sony’s official recommended SSD for the PS5. It comes with a pre-installed heatsink designed to fit perfectly in the PS5’s expansion slot. This plug-and-play drive guarantees maximum compatibility and blazing-fast speeds.
Key Features & Specs:
- Read Speed: Up to 7,300 MB/s
- Capacity Options: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB
- Heatsink: Pre-installed (no extra purchase needed)
- Warranty: 5 years
Best for: Gamers who want hassle-free installation and top-tier performance.
Price & Availability: The WD_Black SN850P 2TB model is often found on Amazon for around $130-$150 — a great value for PS5 gamers.
2. Samsung 990 Pro – Trusted Brand, High Performance
Overview: Samsung’s 990 Pro is a reliable SSD known for fast speeds and consistent performance. It doesn’t come with a heatsink, so you’ll need to buy one separately. This gives you flexibility in choosing a cooling solution that fits your budget.
Key Features & Specs:
- Read Speed: Up to 7,000 MB/s
- Capacity Options: 1TB, 2TB
- Heatsink: Not included (requires aftermarket heatsink)
- Warranty: 5 years
Best for: Users comfortable with installing a heatsink who want a dependable, high-speed SSD.
Price & Availability: Samsung 990 Pro 2TB is commonly priced near $150 on Amazon.
3. Crucial T500 – Budget Friendly Speed
Overview: The Crucial T500 offers excellent PCIe 4.0 speeds at a budget price. It does not include a heatsink, so adding one is essential for PS5 use. This drive is perfect for gamers who want to upgrade without spending a fortune.
Key Features & Specs:
- Read Speed: Up to 7,400 MB/s
- Capacity Options: 1TB (smaller sizes also available)
- Heatsink: Not included
- Warranty: 5 years
Best for: Gamers on a tight budget who want fast speeds and decent storage.
Price & Availability: The 1TB Crucial T500 can be found for around $60 on Amazon, making it a great entry-level choice.
4. Seagate FireCuda 530R – High-End Performance & Endurance
Overview: Designed for heavy-duty use, the FireCuda 530R combines speed and durability, making it ideal for gamers who demand the best. It comes with an optional heatsink or can be purchased without, letting you customize your setup.
Key Features & Specs:
- Read Speed: Up to 7,300 MB/s
- Capacity Options: 1TB to 4TB
- Heatsink: Optional (purchase separately)
- Warranty: 5 years
Best for: Power users and streamers who need reliability and performance over long sessions.
Price & Availability: Expect prices to start around $170 for 1TB models on Amazon.
5. SK hynix Platinum P41 – Premium Performance Option
Overview: The SK hynix Platinum P41 offers premium PCIe 4.0 speeds and power efficiency, making it a solid choice for gamers wanting top-end performance. Like many others, it lacks a heatsink out of the box.
Key Features & Specs:
- Read Speed: Up to 7,000 MB/s
- Capacity Options: Up to 2TB
- Heatsink: Not included
- Warranty: 5 years
Best for: Enthusiasts who want reliable, fast storage with energy efficiency.
Price & Availability: Usually available on Amazon in the $150-$200 range for 2TB.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install an SSD in Your PS5
Wondering how to install a PS5 SSD? Don’t worry, it’s surprisingly simple and takes less than 15 minutes. Follow these steps carefully for a smooth installation.
Tools Needed:
- A Phillips #1 screwdriver
- A compatible M.2 NVMe SSD with a heatsink
- A well-lit, flat surface to work on (a flashlight can be helpful)
Step 1: Preparation
- Power Down: Completely power off your PS5 by holding the power button for three seconds until it beeps twice. Do not enter Rest Mode.
- Unplug Everything: Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from the console. Wait a few minutes for it to cool down.
- Position the Console: Lay the PS5 on a flat, soft surface (like a towel) with the PlayStation logo facing down. The power button should be facing away from you.
Step 2: Remove the PS5 Cover
- Grip the top-right corner of the cover with your right hand and the bottom-left corner with your left hand.
- Gently pull the cover up with your right hand while sliding it to the left with your left hand. It should pop off with a click.
- For PS5 Slim: The process is slightly different. The top panel pops off first. Find the small indent on the back corner and lift gently to unclip it.
Step 3: Install the M.2 SSD
- You will now see a long, rectangular metal plate held in by one screw. This is the expansion slot cover. Use your Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw and lift the cover off.
- Inside, you’ll see another screw and a small metal spacer. Unscrew it and move the spacer to the hole that corresponds with your SSD’s size (most likely “80” for a 2280 drive).
- Hold your M.2 SSD by its edges and align the notch on the connector with the ridge in the expansion slot.
- Insert the SSD firmly at a slight upward angle.
- Gently press the SSD down so it lies flat on the spacer, and use the screw you removed to secure it in place. Do not overtighten.
Step 4: Reassemble and Power On
- Place the expansion slot cover back on and secure it with its screw.
- Re-attach the main PS5 cover by sliding it back into place from left to right until it clicks securely.
- Reconnect the power cord and all other cables, then power on your PS5.
Step 5: Format the SSD
- Once your PS5 boots up, a formatting guide will appear automatically.
- Select “Format M.2 SSD” and follow the on-screen prompts. This takes just a few seconds. Warning: This will erase all data on the new drive.
- After formatting, the PS5 will test the drive’s read speed. Don’t be alarmed if it’s slightly different from the advertised speed; this is normal.
Step 6: Set the Default Installation Location
To have new games install directly to your new SSD, go to Settings > Storage > Installation Location and change the default for “PS5 Games and Apps” to M.2 SSD Storage.
Tips for Optimizing Your PS5 SSD
You’ve completed your PS5 SSD upgrade! Here are a few tips to get the most out of your new storage:
- Manage Your Games: You can easily move games between your console storage, M.2 SSD storage, and any external USB drive. Go to Settings > Storage, select where the game is located, and choose “Move Games and Apps.”
- Keep PS4 Games on an External Drive: To save your premium M.2 SSD space for PS5 titles, consider moving your PS4 library to a cheaper external USB hard drive. You can play PS4 games directly from a USB drive.
- Prioritize PS5 Games: Use your new M.2 SSD and the internal console storage exclusively for PS5 games to take full advantage of their speed.
- Avoid Power Interruptions: Never turn off your PS5 while it’s saving data or during the formatting process, as this can corrupt your data or damage the drive.
PS5 SSD Upgrade FAQs
Can I install any SSD in my PS5?
No. Only PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSDs that meet Sony’s speed, size, and heatsink requirements will work.
Do I need a heatsink for PS5 SSD?
Yes. Sony requires SSDs to have adequate cooling. You can buy an SSD with a built-in heatsink or install one separately.
How much usable storage does the PS5 have?
Out of the box, the PS5 offers approximately 667GB of usable storage space.
What’s the maximum storage upgrade I can do?
You can install up to a 4TB NVMe SSD.
Will upgrading storage void my warranty?
No. Sony allows internal SSD upgrades and provides instructions in their official documentation.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your PlayStation 5 storage with a high-speed M.2 NVMe SSD is one of the best ways to enjoy more games without worrying about limited space. Whether you pick the officially licensed WD_Black SN850P for ease or a budget-friendly Crucial T500 with a heatsink, the right SSD will speed up your load times and expand your gaming library.
Follow this guide on how to install PS5 SSD and start your PlayStation 5 storage expansion today. Check trusted retailers for the best deals and pick the SSD that suits your gaming needs.
Enjoy faster, smoother gaming with your upgraded PS5!
References:
- Sony Official PS5 SSD Guide: https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/hardware/ps5-ssd-storage-expansion/
- TechRadar SSD Reviews: https://www.techradar.com/best/best-ssd
- Tom’s Hardware SSD Guide: https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/best-ssds,3891.html
