If your PlayStation 5 library is becoming overcrowded, enhancing it with one of the top SSDs for your PlayStation 5 can make a significant impact. With modern PS5 games taking up a lot of space, the console’s internal storage can quickly fill up, especially when managing large titles like Call of Duty, Spider-Man 2, or Final Fantasy XVI. A compatible SSD can provide you with more storage without compromising load times or performance, allowing you to focus more on gaming and less on organizing your library.
Many SSDs are simple to install and offer performance comparable to the PS5’s built-in storage. It’s essential to choose drives that meet Sony’s specifications, including Gen4 speeds and a built-in heatsink (or the option to add one). Whether you’re looking for extensive storage for your digital collection or seeking a performance boost for next-gen games, we’ve compiled a list of the best SSD options to meet every requirement and budget.
Read more: These are the best SSDs in 2025
Table of contents
– Best SSDs for PS5 in 2025
– How we test PS5 SSDs
– PS5 SSD FAQs
Best SSDs for PS5 in 2025
How we test PS5 SSDs
I have personally tested most of the recommended SSDs on this list for either PS5 or computer use. Additionally, I have purchased and utilized our top pick in my own PS5.
PS5 SSD FAQs
How much PS5 storage do I need?
The PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro can accommodate internal drives ranging from 250GB to 8TB of storage capacity. If you already own a PS5, you likely have a good understanding of how much storage you require for your game library. For those purchasing an SSD with a new PS5 or PS5 Pro, determining the necessary storage for optimal performance can be more challenging.
PS5 games are generally smaller than their PS4 counterparts, typically ranging from 30GB to 100GB, with some exceptions like Call of Duty titles that can take up to 240GB. Considering your internet speed is also crucial, especially in areas with slow broadband where re-downloading games can be time-consuming.
In terms of storage options, a 250GB PS5 SSD may not be the most practical choice economically or practically, as it doesn’t offer sufficient space for modern games. Opting for a 500GB, 1TB, or 2TB drive is more suitable for most users, with the latter doubling the PS5 Pro’s storage capacity without a significant cost increase.
Avoiding 4TB and 8TB models is recommended, as they can be more expensive per gigabyte compared to 1TB or 2TB drives. The actual storage available in the PS5 may differ from the advertised capacity due to system requirements and caching. It’s worth noting that all our recommendations are compatible with any PS5 model, whether it’s the Slim or Pro version.
Can you play PS5 games on an external SSD?
External hard drives, which are typically less expensive than internal SSDs, can be connected to your PS5 via USB. However, they are only suitable for playing PlayStation 4 games or storing PS5 titles. This can be beneficial if you have limited internet speed or want to keep your PS4 library accessible. While high-performance models are not necessary for external SSDs, opting for SSDs over HDDs can improve transfer speeds and load times.
Which SSD cards are compatible with the PS5?
Sony requires an «M.2 Socket 3 (Key M) Gen4 x4 NVME SSD» for compatibility with the PS5. Factors such as speed, cooling, and physical dimensions are crucial for compatibility. Drives should be capable of sequential reads at 5,500MB/s, but the PS5 may accept slightly slower drives. However, it’s advisable to choose drives that meet Sony’s specifications to avoid potential issues with future games.
Most new SSDs should fit the PS5’s requirements in terms of size, with 22mm-wide drives of various lengths being compatible. The system can accommodate a 25mm-wide drive, provided it includes the necessary cooling solution. Additionally, SSDs require effective heat dissipation with a cooling structure, such as a heatsink. While some popular heatsinked Gen4 SSDs may not fit within the PS5’s storage expansion slot, there are PlayStation-specific models available that meet the requirements.
How to install an SSD into your PS5
For guidance on installing a new NVMe into your PS5 or PS5 Pro, refer to our detailed guide outlining the installation steps. It’s essential to ensure that you have the latest software installed on your PS5 before attempting to add more storage via an SSD.
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