The Best PS5 SSDs You Can Buy in 2025: Speedy M.2 Drives for Your Console
For several console generations, gamers were limited by the built-in storage of their consoles. The PS5, however, introduced a welcome change: an internal M.2 PCIe slot for adding extra storage via off-the-shelf SSDs. This is a significant improvement, especially considering the PS5's relatively small 825GB of initial storage. Now, you can install high-performance PC SSDs, like the top-rated Corsair MP600 Pro LPX, to significantly expand your game library with near-instant load times, comparable to the console's internal drive.
TL;DR - Best PS5 SSDs:
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Our Top Pick: Corsair MP600 Pro LPX
Crucial T500
Samsung 990 Evo Plus
WD_Black P40
There are some important considerations. You'll need a PCIe 4.0 (or higher) M.2 SSD. While the physical size isn't strictly limited, an M.2 2280 drive is the most common and recommended size. Crucially, a heatsink is also recommended due to the heat generated by PCIe 4.0 SSDs; the PS5's internal space isn't ideal for passive cooling. You can either choose an SSD with a built-in heatsink or purchase one separately, ensuring it doesn't exceed 11.25mm in height.
Storage capacity depends on your needs. A 1TB drive is a popular choice, effectively doubling your storage, while larger 4TB drives offer significantly more space but at a higher cost.
*For Xbox owners, see our best SSDs for Xbox Series X roundup.*
Contributions by Danielle Abraham and Callum Bains
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PS5 SSD Basics
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Many SSDs are compatible with the PS5's M.2 slot. Due to increased competition, you can find high-speed, affordable drives for under $100. However, prices increase significantly with capacity; larger drives (e.g., 8TB) can cost well over $500.
Ensure your NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD has maximum dimensions of 110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm (including heatsink). The PS5's limited space necessitates a heatsink to prevent overheating and performance throttling. Most drives include one; if not, choose one under 8mm above the SSD or 2.45mm below.
You need at least a PCIe 4.0 SSD with sequential read speeds of 5500MB/s or faster. Most SSDs advertise these speeds; the PS5 will also run its own speed test upon installation. Drives significantly faster than 6500MB/s offer minimal additional benefit for the PS5.
Consider the warranty (typically five years) and the TBW (Terabytes Written) rating, indicating the drive's endurance before potential failure. The type of NAND memory (QLC, TLC, MLC) also impacts endurance and price; TLC is a good balance for gamers.
Given the PS5's limited initial storage, expansion is often necessary. Games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur’s Gate 3 easily exceed 100GB. The M.2 slot allows for 250GB–8TB expansion; 1TB is a popular balance of capacity and price. Larger capacities are available for extensive libraries.
While an internal SSD is preferred, external hard drives (though not for PS5 games) can store PS4 games and prevent redownloading.
For PS5 SSD installation help, see our guide on upgrading PS5 storage.
1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX
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Best PS5 SSD
Corsair MP600 Pro LPX
With read speeds up to 7,100MB/s and a pre-installed heatsink, this SSD provides fast loading times.
Product Specifications
Capacity: 1TB
Sequential read speed: 7,100MB/s
Sequential write speed: 5,800MB/s
NAND type: 3D TLC
TBW: 700TB
PROS: Excellent value, high read speed
CONS: Not the fastest drive available
The Corsair MP600 Pro LPX remains a top choice, offering excellent performance at a competitive price. While newer SSDs exist, the PS5's limitations mean the speed difference is negligible. The 700TBW rating is sufficient for most gamers.
2. Crucial T500
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Best Budget PS5 SSD
Crucial T500
A 1TB drive with high speeds and a heatsink, offering excellent value.
Product Specifications
Capacity: 1TB
Sequential read speed: 7,300MB/s
Sequential write speed: 6,800MB/s
NAND type: Micron TLC
TBW: 600TB
PROS: TLC 3D NAND flash memory, impressive speeds
CONS: No 4TB option
The Crucial T500 provides a great balance of price and performance, including a heatsink. Its read and write speeds are excellent, making it a strong budget option.
3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus
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Best PS5 SSD Without Heatsink
Samsung 990 Evo Plus
Product Specifications
Capacity: 1TB – 4TB
Sequential read speed: 7,250MB/s
Sequential write speed: 6,300MB/s
NAND type: Samsung V-NAND TLC
TBW: 600TB (1TB), 1200TB (2TB), 2400TB (4TB)
PROS: Excellent performance, fast load times
CONS: Doesn't include a heatsink
The Samsung 990 Evo Plus delivers strong performance at a reasonable price, though it requires a separate heatsink.
4. WD_Black P40
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Best External PS5 SSD
WD_Black P40
1TB of storage with 2,000MB/s read speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connection. Note: Cannot run PS5 games directly.
Product Specifications
Capacity: 1TB
Sequential read speed: 2,000MB/s
Sequential write speed: 2,000MB/s
NAND type: WD TLC
TBW: 600TB
PROS: Faster than traditional hard drives, multiplatform support
CONS: Cannot run PS5 games
The WD_Black P40 serves as a fast external storage solution, useful for PS4 games and data transfer, but it cannot run PS5 games.
PS5 SSD FAQ
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Is an SSD worth it for PS5?
An SSD significantly improves loading times and is recommended if you have multiple games installed or play large live-service titles. The PS5's base storage fills up quickly.
What speed SSD should I get for PS5?
At least 5,500MB/s read speed is required. 6,500MB/s or higher is generally sufficient, with diminishing returns beyond that for the PS5.
When is the best time to buy a PS5 SSD?
Consider sales periods like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday for potential discounts.
Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it for the PS5?
No. The PS5 only utilizes PCIe 4.0 speeds; PCIe 5.0 drives offer no performance advantage and are more expensive.
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