Sony initially launched the PlayStation 5 in 2020 without the capability for storage expansion. This limitation was addressed less than a year later through a software update by the company. Given the increasing size of game installs, the PS5’s built-in 667GB of storage quickly became insufficient, particularly by 2024.
A standard PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD can effectively address the storage constraints of the PS5. Despite the technical terminology, these drives are straightforward to install and use. Several SSDs have been identified as optimal choices for PS5 storage expansion.
The Corsair MP600 Pro LPX is a top recommendation due to its balanced features, offering high speeds of up to 7,100MB/s for reading and 6,800MB/s for writing. It includes a pre-installed heatsink and comes with a five-year warranty, making it both cost-effective and high-performing.
Another noted option is the Crucial T500, which offers read speeds of up to 7,300MB/s and the flexibility of installing a separate heatsink. This model frequently offers competitive pricing, making it a worthwhile consideration for upgrading PS5 storage.
The Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus stands out with its unique heatsink design that doubles as a replacement for the PS5’s storage expansion slot cover. However, it is relatively more expensive and slower compared to other options.
For users looking to store non-active games externally, the Samsung T7 is an excellent USB 3.0 external storage option, boasting reliable read and write speeds of 1,050MB/s and 1,000MB/s, respectively. While it cannot run PS5 games directly, it serves well for storing games.
Testing for these SSDs has been comprehensive, ensuring their performance and compatibility with the PS5. Users need to determine their storage needs based on the size of their game library and download speeds. For most users, a 1TB drive, which doubles the PS5’s storage, is recommended for optimal cost-efficiency and capacity.
Sony’s requirements for PS5-compatible SSDs include a sequential read capability of at least 5,500MB/s, effective heat dissipation, and fitting within specified physical dimensions. While the system can accommodate 22mm-wide SSDs, the cooling solution must fit within an 11.25mm height restriction. Despite these specifications, numerous manufacturers now provide PS5-specific models.
Installation of a new SSD into a PS5 involves straightforward steps, including removing the side panel, accessing the drive bay, positioning the SSD, and securing it. Following the installation, the console will prompt the user to format the drive, ensuring it is ready for use.
In conclusion, expanding PS5 storage with a compatible SSD enhances game storage capacity and performance. New models and technologies emerging in the market will continue to provide greater options for users seeking to optimize their PS5 storage capabilities.
