Unlocking the PS5's Storage Potential: A Guide to the Best SSDs

For several console generations, gamers were limited by built-in storage. The PS5, however, offers a game-changer: an internal M.2 PCIe slot for adding external SSDs. This is a welcome improvement, especially considering the PS5's relatively small initial storage (825GB). Upgrading with a high-performance SSD, like the Corsair MP600 Pro LPX (our top pick), significantly boosts game loading speeds, nearly matching the console's internal drive.

TL;DR - Top PS5 SSD Recommendations:

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

Key Considerations:

• 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: An M.2 drive is essential. While various sizes fit, the 2280 is the most common and recommended.
• Heatsink: A heatsink is crucial due to the heat generated by PCIe 4.0 SSDs. The PS5's internal space limits airflow. Choose an SSD with a built-in heatsink or purchase one separately (ensure it's under 11.25mm tall).
• Capacity: Select the storage capacity based on your needs. 1TB is a popular choice, effectively doubling your storage, while larger capacities (up to 4TB or more) are available but more expensive.

PS5 SSD Essentials:

Numerous compatible SSDs are available at various price points. While higher-capacity drives (e.g., 8TB) are significantly more expensive, 1TB offers a good balance of capacity and cost. Remember the PS5's size restrictions (110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm including heatsink). A minimum read speed of 5500MB/s is required; most PCIe 4.0 drives exceed this. Consider the warranty and TBW (Terabytes Written) rating for long-term reliability. TLC NAND offers a good balance of performance and endurance.

Beyond Internal Storage: External hard drives, while not suitable for PS5 games, can store PS4 games and act as a convenient backup solution. Refer to our guide on PS5 storage upgrades for installation assistance. Link to PS5 upgrade guide

Individual SSD Reviews:

1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: Excellent value with high read speeds (7,100MB/s) and a pre-installed heatsink. A solid choice for budget-conscious gamers.

Corsair MP600 Pro LPX Specifications:

• Capacity: 1TB
• Sequential Read Speed: 7,100MB/s
• Sequential Write Speed: 5,800MB/s
• NAND Type: 3D TLC
• TBW: 700TB

2. Crucial T500: Exceptional value, offering high speeds and a heatsink for under $100 (1TB). Micron TLC 3D NAND ensures solid performance.

Crucial T500 Specifications:

• Capacity: 1TB
• Sequential Read Speed: 7,300MB/s
• Sequential Write Speed: 6,800MB/s
• NAND Type: Micron TLC
• TBW: 600TB

3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus: Excellent performance at a reasonable price. High speeds, but requires a separate heatsink.

Samsung 990 Evo Plus 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)

4. WD_Black P40: A fast external SSD (2,000MB/s read/write), ideal for PS4 games and data transfer. Cannot run PS5 games.

WD_Black P40 Specifications:

• Capacity: 1TB
• Sequential Read Speed: 2,000MB/s
• Sequential Write Speed: 2,000MB/s
• NAND Type: WD TLC
• TBW: 600TB

PS5 SSD FAQ:

• Is an SSD worthwhile? Yes, if you play multiple games or large live-service titles that consume significant storage.
• Required SSD speed? At least 5,500MB/s read speed (most PCIe 4.0 drives meet this).
• Best time to buy? Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday often offer discounts.
• Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs necessary? No, the PS5 doesn't fully utilize PCIe 5.0 speeds. PCIe 4.0 is sufficient.

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