For a PS5 Slim, decide first whether you need discs, then whether you want extra games ready to launch from internal storage. The Digital Edition can use a compatible detachable disc drive on supported console models; a compatible internal M.2 SSD can run games directly; an external USB drive is best for archiving and transferring PS5 games, though compatible PS4 games can run from it.
Do you need a disc drive?
If you buy physical games or use optical media, choose a Slim model with a disc drive or check whether your Digital Edition can take Sony’s detachable drive. Sony lists the CFI-2000 and CFI-7000 model groups as supported. Check the model number on your console before buying: the detachable drive is not presented as compatible with every PS5 model.
With the drive attached, the console can use disc-based games and optical media. Sony’s CFI-2016 safety guide specifically identifies Blu-ray discs and DVDs. If you buy the drive separately, look for the PS5 detachable disc drive setup and compatibility instructions and confirm your console’s model group before purchase.
Which storage option fits how you play?
| Option | Can you play games from it? | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Internal M.2 SSD | Yes. Supported PS5 and PS4 games can be launched from the installed SSD. | Extra storage for games you want ready to play. |
| External USB drive | Compatible PS4 games can be played from USB. PS5 games stored there must be copied back to console storage before play. | Archiving games and avoiding a new download or reinstall when you want to play them later. |
Sony’s current PS5 storage-solutions guidance describes external USB drives as a place to store PS5 and PS4 games, with a capacity range of 250 GB to 8 TB. Choose internal M.2 expansion when the main goal is to launch games from the added storage; choose USB when you are comfortable copying PS5 games back before playing.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What to check before buying an M.2 SSD
Use Sony’s current M.2 SSD compatibility and installation guidance as the general reference, then verify the exact specifications of both the SSD and your console. Sony supports M.2 NVMe SSDs using PCIe Gen4x4, with capacities from 250 GB to 8 TB, and recommends sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s. M.2 SATA drives are unsupported, and a cooling structure is required.
- Interface: PCIe Gen4x4 M.2 NVMe, Key M. M.2 SATA is not supported.
- Capacity: 250 GB to 8 TB under Sony’s current M.2 storage guidance.
- Form factor: Supported lengths are 30, 42, 60, 80, or 110 mm (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110).
- Size with cooling fitted: The CFI-7100 safety guide specifies a maximum width of 25 mm and thickness of 11.25 mm, including no more than 8.0 mm above the board and 2.45 mm below it. Check the SSD and heatsink as an assembled unit.
- Cooling: The drive needs a heat-dissipation mechanism, such as a heatsink. Make sure it fits within the console’s size limits.
The cited dimensions come from Sony’s CFI-7100 series safety guide; the drive setup information also refers to CFI-2000/7000 groups. Model-specific documents may not be identical across regional SKUs, so confirm the requirements for your own console. Sony also cautions that it cannot guarantee every third-party SSD meeting the listed specifications will work. A PS5-compatible M.2 SSD with a suitable heatsink should be checked against those requirements before purchase.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
When does an external USB drive make sense?
Use an external SuperSpeed USB drive if you want to keep games stored without using internal console space, or move PS5 games back and forth as needed. You can play compatible PS4 titles directly from the USB drive. A PS5 title on that drive must be copied to console storage before you can play it; USB storage is therefore an archive or transfer option, not a direct-play expansion for PS5 games.
Sony lists a 250 GB to 8 TB capacity range for external storage on its PS5 storage-solutions page. Check that page for current USB requirements and setup details before choosing a drive.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which accessories are worth considering?
For this buying decision, the directly relevant add-ons are a compatible M.2 SSD with cooling, Sony’s detachable disc drive for supported console groups, and an external USB drive for archiving. The right choice depends on your needs:
- Buy the detachable disc drive if you have a supported Digital Edition and want to use physical games or optical media.
- Buy an internal M.2 SSD if you want more storage from which to launch supported PS5 and PS4 games.
- Buy an external USB drive if you want a place to archive games, and accept that PS5 games need to be copied back to play.
General accessories such as stands, headsets, or controller chargers are not necessary to resolve these disc and storage choices.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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