Boost Your PS5 Storage: A Guide to the Best SSDs
For several console generations, gamers were limited by built-in storage. The PS5 changed this with its M.2 PCIe slot, allowing for easy SSD expansion. This is a welcome change, especially considering the PS5's relatively small initial storage (825GB). This guide will highlight the top SSDs for enhancing your PS5 experience.
TL;DR - Top PS5 SSD Picks:
Our Top Pick: Corsair MP600 Pro LPX (See it on Amazon!)
Best Budget: Crucial T500 (See it on Amazon!)
Best Without Heatsink: Samsung 990 Evo Plus (See it at Best Buy!)
Best External: WD_Black P40 (See it on Amazon!)
PS5 SSD Requirements & Recommendations:
- Interface: PCIe 4.0 (or higher) for speeds up to 7,500MB/s. Gen 3 drives are significantly slower.
- Form Factor: M.2. While various sizes fit, the 2280 is most common.
- Heatsink: Essential due to PCIe 4.0's heat generation. Choose an SSD with a built-in heatsink (max 11.25mm height) or purchase one separately.
- Capacity: 1TB is a good balance of cost and capacity, effectively doubling your storage. Larger capacities (up to 4TB) are available but more expensive.
Key Factors to Consider:
- Warranty: Look for a 5-year warranty and a high TBW (Terabytes Written) rating for longevity.
- NAND Type: TLC NAND offers a good balance of performance and endurance for gaming. Avoid QLC for better durability.
- Sequential Read Speed: Aim for at least 5500MB/s, though speeds around 6500MB/s are ideal. The PS5's internal test typically peaks around 6500MB/s.
Why You Need a PS5 SSD:
The PS5's base storage fills up quickly, especially with large games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur's Gate 3. An SSD significantly improves load times. While external hard drives are an option for PS4 games and storage, they can't run PS5 titles.
Individual SSD Reviews:
1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: Excellent value with fast read speeds (up to 7,100MB/s) and a pre-installed heatsink. A budget-friendly top performer.
Product Specifications:
- Capacity: 1TB
- Sequential Read Speed: 7,100MB/s
- Sequential Write Speed: 5,800MB/s
- NAND Type: 3D TLC
- TBW: 700TB
2. Crucial T500: Best budget option with high speeds (up to 7,300MB/s read) and a included heatsink. Offers excellent value.
Product 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: High performance without a premium price tag. Note: Does not include a heatsink.
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)
4. WD_Black P40: A fast external SSD (2,000MB/s read) for PS4 games and data transfer. Cannot run PS5 games.
Product 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 worth it? Absolutely, if you play multiple games or live-service titles.
- 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 offer potential discounts.
- Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it? No, the PS5 doesn't utilize their full capabilities.
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Remember to consult our guide on PS5 storage upgrades for installation assistance. Upgrading your PS5's storage is a straightforward process.
