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If you want extra PS5 storage that can run games directly, install a compatible internal M.2 NVMe SSD. A USB extended-storage drive can hold PS5 games, but you must copy them back to console or M.2 storage before playing. Third-party SSD compatibility and performance are not guaranteed, even when a drive appears to meet Sony’s specifications.
Choose M.2 storage if you want to play PS5 games from the added space
PS5 offers two different ways to expand storage, and they do different jobs. An M.2 SSD fits inside the console’s expansion slot and can store, download, update, and launch PS5 and PS4 games. USB extended storage can hold PS5 games for later, but those games must be copied back to console storage or an M.2 SSD to play. PS4 games can be played directly from USB extended storage.
| Storage option | Play PS5 games directly? | Download or update games there? | Hardware needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| M.2 SSD | Yes | Yes | Compatible PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD with cooling that fits the expansion slot |
| USB extended storage | No. Copy PS5 games back to console or M.2 storage first. | PS5 games can be stored there; see Sony’s storage guidance for details on managing them. | USB extended-storage drive |
Sony’s guides explain the distinction in PS5 storage management and its USB extended-storage guidance. For a large PS5 game library you want to launch without shuffling installations, M.2 is the practical expansion choice.
Check that the M.2 SSD and its cooling fit
Sony specifies a PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD with an M key; M.2 SATA drives are not supported. Listed capacities range from 250 GB to 8 TB. Supported drive lengths are 30, 42, 60, 80, or 110 mm, corresponding to the 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, and 22110 form factors. Sony recommends sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster. That is a recommendation, not a guarantee that a drive will work or match the built-in SSD’s performance.
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- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles[4] so you can easily install and play with no concern of compatibility. [4]For PlayStation 5 system software compatibility, please visit the official WD_BLACK site.
- With capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB[1], your PS5 console has the additional space to store up to 200 games[3] (8TB model) [1]1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = one trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment. [3] Number of games based on a 36GB average per game. The number of games will vary based on file size, formatting, other programs, and factors.
- Experience uninterrupted gameplay with a brand-new, optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console for an easy, worry-free installation into the M.2 slot.
- Play directly from the drive and eliminate the need to transfer or delete games from your console with tested and approved storage for your PS5 console[4].
- Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s[2], giving you seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times. [2]1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.
Measure the complete assembly—not just the bare SSD. Sony requires effective heat dissipation and sets these fit limits for the drive plus its cooling structure:
- Width: up to 25 mm.
- Length: 30, 42, 60, 80, or 110 mm.
- Total thickness: up to 11.25 mm, including up to 8.0 mm above the board and 2.45 mm below it.
Both single- and double-sided drives are supported, but cooling structures vary; Sony notes that single-sided cooling structures are easier to fit. If the drive lacks built-in cooling, it may need a compatible heatsink or heat-transfer sheet. Do not add a second heatsink to a drive that already has one built in. See Sony’s M.2 SSD requirements and installation guide for the complete specifications.
Rank #2
- Unleash Upgraded power - Employing PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface, SIX X7400 nvme m.2 ssd confer it UP to 7350MB/s read speeds. With faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth and throughput.
- Work and Play - Whether you pursue science or culture, X7400 m.2 ssd 1TB accentuates ferocious performance for heavy computing and immersive gameplay. Get up to 40% fast performance for heavy-duty applications in data analytics, content creation, gaming and more.
- Match ur Next-level M.2 SSD - Compatibility ready for laptop, desktop or PS5 storage expansion, X7400 internal 1TB ssd is easy to install to extend lifecycle and storage. Speed up your bootups, file transfers, and game loads for tech-savvy users or hardcore gamer.
- Purpose Built - SIX X7400 m.2 nvme ssd ps5 is built for achieving immersive gameplay, experiencing uninterrupted gameplay and incredibly short load times. Breathe in. Focus. Breathe out, X7400 lightning-fast loading are ready for your final boss.
- 5 Years Limited Warranty & What u Get - Your X7400 nvme m.2 ssd is safeguarded for 5 years by SIX Limited Warranty Service. To improve your installation experience, X7400 provide all you need for installation(such as screw, screwdrivers, heatsink and so on).
Verify the exact model before buying
Use a search such as “PS5 compatible PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD with heatsink” to find candidates, then check the manufacturer’s current specification sheet. Confirm the interface, capacity, exact board dimensions, sequential read speed, and combined drive-plus-heatsink measurements. A product description that simply says “M.2” or “NVMe” does not establish that it meets every PS5 requirement.
Sony Interactive Entertainment warns in its PlayStation M.2 SSD support guide: “SIE cannot guarantee that all M.2 SSD devices meeting the described specifications will work with your console and assumes no responsibility for the selection, performance or use of third-party products.” Sony also notes that some games may not perform exactly as they do on the console’s internal SSD. Treat the published specifications as requirements and guidance, not a certification of any third-party model.
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Rank #3
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles[4] so you can easily install and play with no concern of compatibility. [4]For PlayStation 5 system software compatibility, please visit the official WD_BLACK site.
- With capacities ranging from 1TB to 8TB[1], your PS5 console has the additional space to store up to 200 games[3] (8TB model) [1]1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = one trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment. [3] Number of games based on a 36GB average per game. The number of games will vary based on file size, formatting, other programs, and factors.
- Experience uninterrupted gameplay with a brand-new, optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console for an easy, worry-free installation into the M.2 slot.
- Play directly from the drive and eliminate the need to transfer or delete games from your console with tested and approved storage for your PS5 console[4].
- Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s[2], giving you seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times. [2]1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.
Install it using the guide for your PS5 model
Update the console’s system software before installation. Sony’s installation directions differ by console model group, so identify your model and follow the corresponding instructions rather than relying on cover-removal steps intended for another version.
- Open Sony’s M.2 installation guide and select the instructions for your console model.
- Install the SSD and its cooling structure so the full assembly fits Sony’s dimensions and the drive is secured as directed.
- When prompted, format the entire M.2 SSD. Formatting erases data on that drive.
- After setup, choose the M.2 SSD as an installation location if you want new games installed there, or move existing games between console, M.2, and USB storage using the console’s storage settings.
If a game has problems when played from M.2 storage, Sony advises moving it to the console’s internal storage. Sony also says to remove the M.2 SSD before sending the console for repair.
Rank #4
- This product has been replaced by our latest generation. Please search for the SANDISK Optimus GX 7100 NVMe SSD
- HIGH-OCTANE GAMING. Experience speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models), with up to 35% faster performance than previous generation.
- PURPOSE-BUILT. Designed for serious on-the-go gamers, with a PCIe Gen4 interface and SANDISK’s next generation TLC 3D NAND.
- MORE TIME TO CLEAR THAT CHECKPOINT. Built with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, with up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
- DO MORE WITH DASHBOARD. Ensure your drive is optimized for prime performance with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only).
Understand warranty and installation risk
Sony says warranty coverage generally should not be affected when a compliant drive is properly installed. Damage caused by failing to follow the requirements or instructions may not be covered. Check the warranty terms that apply in your region before opening the console or installing a drive.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Cheetah-like explosive speed: The 2tb PS5 Storage Expansion boasts the racing performance of a cheetah, mainly used to accelerate program processing. With the explosive acceleration of 7350MB/s, it achieves a powerful speed and eliminates compatibility issues. Additionally, this 2tb nvme m.2 ssd supports real-time saving during 3D rendering and enables fast 4K game loading. The ps5 ssd with heatsink is also compatible with the PS5 game console, making it easy and worry-free to install and play.
- Stable and outstanding performance: The ps5 internal storage expansion ssd features HMB + dynamic SLC cache, achieving a synergy between software and hardware. The 2tb ps5 hard drive ssd has a read/write speed of up to 7350/6600MB/s, providing ultimate burst power for efficient, stable, and smooth loading - an excellent choice for professionals.
- Multi-layer heat dissipation structure design: The 2tb nvme m.2 ssd adopts unique dual-surface heat dissipation technology. Its innovative multi-layer internal design effectively increases the heat dissipation area compared to the standard single-layer heat sink. This structural advantage ensures excellent heat transfer and rapid heat dissipation. Additionally, it is equipped with a metal heat dissipation shell. The multi-layer structure heat dissipation design guarantees a stable and long-lasting operation at ultra-high speeds.
- PCIe 4.0 interface compatibility: The 2tb ps5 memory storage SSD can achieve the maximum speed only through PCIe 4.0. For external hard drive enclosures, USB usually limits the speed.
- Versatile applications for demanding users: Designed for gamers, video editors, and AI creators who require blazing-fast storage speeds for intensive workloads including 3D rendering, 4K gaming, and content creation tasks.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
