Top PS5 SSDs for 2025: Fast M.2 Options

In the past, gamers were often limited by the fixed storage capacity of their consoles. However, Sony's PlayStation 5 (PS5) introduced a game-changing feature: an internal M.2 PCIe slot that allows users to expand storage with off-the-shelf SSDs. This move was a refreshing departure from Sony's previous practices, such as the costly memory cards for the PS Vita and PSP, especially considering the PS5's base storage of just 825GB. Now, gamers can enhance their console's performance by installing high-end PC SSDs like the Corsair MP600 Pro LPX, our top recommendation, which offers loading speeds nearly as fast as the PS5's built-in drive.

TL;DR - These Are the Best SSDs for PS5:

Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

9 See it at Amazon!

Crucial T500

0 See it at Amazon!

Samsung 990 Evo Plus

0 See it at Best Buy!

WD_Black P40

1 See it at Amazon!

There are specific requirements for the SSDs you can use with the PS5. You need a PCIe 4.0 or Gen 4 drive, which supports speeds up to 7,500MB/s, a significant leap from the 3,500MB/s of Gen 3 M.2 SSDs. The PS5 accommodates various M.2 drive sizes, but the M.2 2280 is the most common and recommended. Additionally, it's crucial to choose an SSD with a built-in heatsink, as the PS5's SSD slot area has limited airflow, and PCIe 4.0 SSDs can generate substantial heat. The heatsink should not exceed 11.25mm in height, and you can opt for an SSD with a pre-installed heatsink or purchase one separately.

When selecting the capacity, consider your gaming needs. A 1TB drive is often sufficient, effectively doubling your storage and allowing you to install multiple games, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and a couple of others. For those with larger libraries, a 4TB drive is an option, though it comes with a higher price tag.

PS5 SSD Basics:

The market offers a variety of SSDs compatible with the PS5's M.2 slot. Competition has driven down prices, making high-speed, affordable drives available for under $100. Larger capacities, like the upcoming 8TB SSD from Western Digital, can cost over $500. Ensure your SSD is an NVMe PCIe 4.0 model with dimensions not exceeding 110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm, including the heatsink. The PS5's compact design necessitates a heatsink to manage heat and prevent performance throttling. Most SSDs come with an optional heatsink, but if you need to buy one separately, ensure it fits within the height limits of 8mm above the SSD or 2.45mm below.

Your SSD should have a sequential read speed of at least 5500MB/s. Most PCIe 4.0 drives are rated between 7,000–7,500MB/s, providing ample choice. The PS5 will run a speed test upon installation, typically peaking at around 6,500MB/s, so faster drives won't offer significant benefits. Also, consider the warranty and endurance rating (TBW) of the drive, which indicates how much data can be written before potential failure. The type of NAND memory (QLC, TLC, MLC) affects durability and price, with TLC being a balanced choice for gamers.

Given the PS5's limited base storage and the size of modern games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur’s Gate 3, additional storage is often necessary. The M.2 expansion slot supports 250GB to 8TB, with 1TB being a cost-effective choice. For larger libraries, 4TB options are available. Alternatively, external hard drives can store PS5 games for quick access without redownloading, though PS5 games cannot be played directly from them.

For installation guidance, refer to our comprehensive guide on upgrading your PS5 storage.

1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

Best PS5 SSD

Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

9 With read speeds up to 7,100MB/s and a pre-installed heatsink, this SSD is optimized for quick data loading. See it at Amazon!

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 around

The Corsair MP600 Pro LPX was among the first SSDs marketed specifically for the PS5 and remains a top choice. While it may not match the speed of newer PCIe 5.0 SSDs, the PS5 can't fully utilize faster drives anyway. At around $80 for a 1TB version, it's a cost-effective solution. Its sequential read speed of 7,100MB/s and write speed of 5,800MB/s are well-suited for PS5 games, though actual speeds on the console may be around 6,500MB/s. The 700TBW durability rating is more than sufficient for most gamers.

2. Crucial T500

Best Budget PS5 SSD

Crucial T500

0 A 1TB drive with high speeds and an included heatsink, all at a budget-friendly price. See it at Amazon!

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 offers excellent value, providing a performance boost over its predecessor, the P5 Plus. Priced just over $100, it includes a heatsink and fits perfectly into the PS5. Its Micron TLC 3D NAND flash memory ensures high performance, with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s and write speeds up to 6,800MB/s. The 2TB version offers even more storage and faster speeds, though a 4TB option is not available.

3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus

Best PS5 SSD Without Heatsink

Samsung 990 Evo Plus

0 See it at Best Buy!

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 for the money
• Extremely fast load times

Cons:

• Doesn't come with a heatsink

The Samsung 990 Evo Plus offers high performance at a reasonable price, though it lacks a built-in heatsink. Its endurance rating is lower than the more expensive 990 Pro, but it's still more than adequate for console use. With a read speed of up to 7,250MB/s, it performs well on the PS5, loading games like Metaphor: Refantazio in just 4.37 seconds. As a DRAM-less SSD, it's less suited for professional workloads but perfectly fine for gaming. You'll need to purchase a separate heatsink, which is affordable and widely available.

4. WD_Black P40

Best External PS5 SSD

WD_Black P40

1 1TB of storage with 2,000MB/s read speeds and a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connection, functioning as an external SSD. See it at Amazon!

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 drive
• Multiplatform support

Cons:

• Can't run PS5 games

The WD_Black P40 is an external SSD that connects to the PS5 via USB, offering a convenient storage solution without the need to open the console. It's compatible with multiple platforms, including Xbox and PC. While it can't run PS5 games directly, it's ideal for storing game data and playing PS4 titles. With read and write speeds of 2,000MB/s, it's significantly faster than traditional hard drives, making it perfect for transferring data between consoles.

PS5 SSD FAQ

Is an SSD worth it for PS5?

Yes, an SSD is highly beneficial for the PS5. With system files taking up a significant portion of the 825GB internal SSD, leaving around 650GB for games, additional storage becomes essential for gamers with multiple games or those who play live service games that grow in size over time. An SSD is one of the best PS5 accessories to invest in.

What speed SSD should I get for PS5?

You should get an SSD with a read speed of at least 5,500MB/s. Most PCIe 4.0 drives meet this requirement, and speeds above 6,500MB/s are more than sufficient for gaming needs.

When is the best time to buy a PS5 SSD?

The best times to buy a PS5 SSD are during sales events like Amazon Prime Day in July, and Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when significant discounts are often available.

Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it for the PS5?

No, PCIe 5.0 SSDs are not worth it for the PS5. The console supports PCIe 4.0, and cannot fully utilize the higher speeds of PCIe 5.0 drives, making PCIe 4.0 SSDs a more cost-effective choice.