The Best PS5 SSDs You Can Buy in 2025: Speedy M.2 Drives for Your Console

This guide explores the best SSDs to enhance your PlayStation 5 gaming experience. The PS5's limited internal storage often necessitates expansion, and thankfully, Sony included an M.2 PCIe slot for this purpose. However, there are specific requirements for compatible drives.

TL;DR - Best PS5 SSDs:

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 Gen 4) or faster is essential for optimal speeds (up to 7,500MB/s). While PCIe 5.0 drives are backward compatible, the PS5 won't utilize their full potential.
• Form Factor: M.2. While the PS5 accommodates various sizes, the 2280 is the most common and recommended.
• Heatsink: Crucial due to PCIe 4.0 drives generating significant heat. The heatsink must be no taller than 11.25mm. Many SSDs include one; otherwise, purchase a compatible separate heatsink.
• Capacity: 1TB is a popular choice, effectively doubling the console's storage. Larger capacities (up to 4TB or more) are available but at a higher cost.
• Warranty & Endurance: Check the warranty period (typically 5 years) and TBW (Terabytes Written) rating, indicating the drive's lifespan. TLC NAND is a good balance of performance and endurance for gaming.

Top SSD Choices Detailed:

1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX: Excellent value, high read speeds (7,100MB/s), pre-installed heatsink. A 1TB version often costs under $80. 700TBW rating.

2. Crucial T500: Best budget option, offering high speeds (7,300MB/s read) and a heatsink for around $100 (1TB). Micron TLC 3D NAND. 600TBW rating (1TB).

3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus: High performance at a competitive price (up to 7,250MB/s read). Doesn't include a heatsink; you'll need to purchase one separately. Available in various capacities (1TB-4TB). TBW varies by capacity.

4. WD_Black P40: An external SSD offering faster speeds than traditional hard drives (2,000MB/s read), suitable for PS4 games and data transfer. Cannot run PS5 games directly.

PS5 SSD FAQ:

• Is an SSD worthwhile? Yes, if you frequently play multiple games or live-service titles that require significant storage.
• What speed SSD? At least 5,500MB/s read speed (PCIe 4.0). 6,500MB/s or higher is ideal.
• 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 their speed advantage.

Remember to consult our guide on PS5 storage upgrades for installation assistance. Choosing the right SSD significantly improves your PS5 gaming experience.