Boost Your PS5's Storage: A Guide to the Best SSDs
For past console generations, gamers were limited by built-in storage. The PS5, however, offers a welcome change with its M.2 PCIe slot, allowing for easy expansion using off-the-shelf SSDs. This is a significant upgrade, especially considering the PS5's relatively small initial storage capacity (825GB). Upgrading with a high-performance SSD, like the Corsair MP600 Pro LPX (our top pick), dramatically improves load times, bringing them close to the console's internal drive speed.
TL;DR - Best PS5 SSDs:
Our Top Pick: Corsair MP600 Pro LPX See it at Amazon
Crucial T500 See it at Amazon
Samsung 990 Evo Plus See it at Best Buy
WD_Black P40 See it at Amazon
Key Considerations:
- PCIe 4.0 (or higher): Essential for achieving speeds up to 7,500MB/s, significantly faster than Gen 3 drives.
- M.2 Form Factor: While the PS5 accommodates various sizes, the 2280 is the most common and recommended.
- Heatsink: Crucial for preventing overheating and performance throttling due to the heat generated by PCIe 4.0 SSDs. The heatsink must be 11.25mm or less in height. You can choose an SSD with a built-in heatsink or purchase one separately.
- Capacity: 1TB is a popular choice, effectively doubling your storage. Larger capacities (up to 4TB or more) are available but come at a higher price.
What to Prioritize in a PS5 SSD:
- High storage capacity: For extensive game libraries.
- Fastest speeds: For minimal loading times.
- PCIe 5.0 (Future-proofing): While not necessary now, as the PS5 only supports PCIe 4.0.
- Built-in heatsink: Essential for optimal performance and drive longevity.
- Low price: For budget-conscious gamers.
PS5 SSD Basics:
Numerous compatible SSDs are available at various price points. While larger drives (e.g., 8TB) offer substantial capacity, they significantly increase the cost. Ensure your chosen drive meets the PS5's size requirements (110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm including heatsink) and the minimum sequential read speed of 5500MB/s. The PS5's installation process includes a speed test to verify compatibility. Consider the warranty and TBW (Terabytes Written) rating for long-term reliability. Most drives use TLC NAND, offering a good balance of performance and endurance.
The PS5's limited initial storage often necessitates an upgrade. Games can quickly consume space, making an SSD a worthwhile investment. While external hard drives offer additional storage, they cannot run PS5 games directly (though they can store PS4 games).
Individual SSD Reviews:
1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: Our top pick, offering excellent value with high read speeds (7,100MB/s) and a pre-installed heatsink. The 1TB version's 700TBW rating is sufficient for most gamers.
2. Crucial T500: A budget-friendly option providing high speeds (7,300MB/s read), a heatsink, and excellent value for a 1TB drive.
3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus: A high-performance drive without a heatsink (requires separate purchase). Offers excellent speeds and various capacities.
4. WD_Black P40: An external SSD offering faster speeds than traditional hard drives, suitable for storing PS4 games and transferring data. Cannot run PS5 games directly.
PS5 SSD FAQ:
- Is an SSD worth it? Yes, especially if you have a large game library or play many large games.
- What speed SSD? At least 5,500MB/s read speed (PCIe 4.0).
- 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 capabilities.
Remember to consult our guide on how to upgrade your PS5 storage for step-by-step installation instructions. (link-to-installation-guide)
