Expanding your PS5’s storage with an SSD is a smart move, given its limited 667 GB usable space. This guide covers compatibility requirements for NVMe SSDs, recommending top options like the Samsung 990 Pro and Crucial T500, which meet the necessary speed and format criteria. Detailed installation instructions ensure a smooth upgrade process, highlighting the importance of adhering to specifications such as cooling systems and dimensions for optimal performance.
Enhancing Your PS5 Storage with an SSD
If you’re looking to expand your PlayStation 5’s storage, adding an SSD is a great option. Before you dive in, it’s essential to understand the compatibility requirements to ensure a smooth installation. Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best SSD options that work seamlessly with Sony’s gaming console. We will also break down the compatibility standards and provide a step-by-step guide on installing an NVMe SSD in your PS5.
Understanding PS5 Storage Limitations
The PS5 originally comes with an internal SSD boasting 825 GB of storage, but only about 667 GB is usable for games and applications due to system files taking up space. Fortunately, you can enhance your storage capacity by utilizing the available M.2 slot. As of July 29, 2021, the PS5 officially supports external NVMe SSDs, allowing for additional storage ranging from 250 GB to a whopping 4 TB, with a minimum required speed of 5,500 MB/s. We’ve curated a list of top-rated SSDs that are perfect for your console.
Top NVMe SSDs for PS5 Compatibility
To ensure compatibility with the PS5, the SSD must adhere to specific criteria: it should be in M.2 format and support PCIe 4.0, with a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. Some of the standout models include:
- Samsung 990 Pro: This SSD is a powerful upgrade from the 980 Pro, featuring a remarkable read speed of 7450 MB/s and an impressive write speed of 6900 MB/s, making it one of the best choices for your PS5.
- Samsung 980 Pro: A previous generation model that remains highly effective, offering a read speed of 7000 MB/s and a write speed starting at 5000 MB/s. It also comes with a heatsink to prevent overheating.
- Crucial T500: Launched in late 2023, this SSD reaches speeds of 7300 MB/s for reading and 6300 MB/s for writing, making it an excellent performance-per-cost option for gaming consoles.
- Western Digital Black SN850X: An officially licensed option for the PS5, it features a read speed of 7300 MB/s and a write speed of 6300 MB/s, available in sizes from 1 TB to 4 TB.
- Seagate Game Drive: Known for its high performance, it offers reading speeds of up to 7300 MB/s and writing speeds reaching 6000 MB/s, ensuring smooth gameplay.
- Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: This model features a heatsink and boasts read and write speeds of 7100 MB/s and 6800 MB/s, respectively.
- Kingston Fury Renegate: With read speeds of 7000 MB/s and write speeds of 6000 MB/s, it’s another great choice, complete with a heatsink and available capacities ranging from 500 GB to 4 TB.
Installation Requirements for NVMe SSDs in PS5
Before purchasing an NVMe SSD, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specifications outlined by Sony to ensure compatibility:
- Interface: M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD
- Capacity: Ranges from 250 GB to 4 TB
- Cooling Structure: Must include a heat dissipation system, such as a heatsink. You can add one yourself if it’s not included.
- Sequential Read Speed: Minimum of 5,500 MB/s recommended
- Module Width: 22 mm (maximum 25 mm with heatsink)
- Format: Compatible sizes include 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, and 22110.
- Socket Type: Socket 3 (key M)
- Dimensions: Total dimensions with a cooling structure must not exceed 110 mm (length) x 25 mm (width) x 11.25 mm (height).
With these guidelines in mind, you can confidently choose and install an NVMe SSD to enhance your gaming experience on the PS5.