Top PS5 SSDs of 2025: Fast M.2 Options for Your Console

In previous console generations, gamers were often limited by the fixed storage capacity of their systems. However, with the PlayStation 5, Sony introduced a game-changing feature: an internal M.2 PCIe slot that allows users to install off-the-shelf SSDs, expanding the console's storage beyond its base 825GB. This move was particularly appreciated, especially given Sony's history with the costly memory cards of the PS Vita and PSP. Now, players can enhance their gaming experience by installing high-performance PC SSDs, such as the top-rated Corsair MP600 Pro LPX, which can load games almost as quickly as the console's built-in drive.

TL;DR - These Are the Best SSDs for PS5:

Our Top Pick: Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

Crucial T500

Samsung 990 Evo Plus

WD_Black P40

There are certain requirements to keep in mind when selecting an SSD for your PS5. Firstly, you need a PCIe 4.0 or Gen 4 drive, which supports speeds up to 7,500MB/s, a significant leap over the 3,500MB/s of Gen 3 M.2 SSDs. You'll also need an M.2 drive; while the physical size isn't critical due to the PS5's adaptable screw holes, the most common and recommended size is the M.2 2280 drive.

We strongly recommend choosing an SSD with a built-in heatsink, as PCIe 4.0 SSDs can generate substantial heat under load. The PS5's SSD slot area has limited airflow, making a heatsink essential to prevent overheating and performance throttling. The heatsink should not exceed 11.25mm in height. Fortunately, most SSDs on the market meet these requirements, and you can either opt for an SSD with a built-in heatsink or purchase a separate one.

When it comes to capacity, consider your storage needs. A 1TB drive is usually sufficient for most users, effectively doubling the PS5's storage and accommodating numerous games. For avid collectors, larger options like a 4TB drive are available, albeit at a higher cost.

The market for PS5-compatible SSDs is thriving, with a variety of high-speed, affordable options available. For those looking to expand storage, prices increase with capacity, with larger drives like the upcoming 8TB SSD from Western Digital costing over $500. Ensure your SSD meets the PS5's specifications: an NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD with dimensions no larger than 110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm, including the heatsink. Most drives come with an optional heatsink, but if you're buying separately, make sure it's under 8mm tall above the SSD or 2.45mm below.

In addition to size, your SSD should achieve sequential read speeds of at least 5,500MB/s. Most PCIe 4.0 drives exceed this, typically reaching 7,000-7,500MB/s. When installing a new SSD, the PS5 will conduct its own speed test, usually peaking at around 6,500MB/s. Therefore, significantly faster drives offer little benefit for PS5 gaming.

Consider the warranty and endurance rating of your SSD. Most drives have a five-year warranty and a TBW (Terabytes Written) rating, indicating the amount of data the drive can handle over its lifespan. The type of NAND memory—QLC, TLC, or MLC—also affects endurance and price. TLC NAND, used in the SSDs listed here, offers a balanced performance and cost.

With games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur’s Gate 3 requiring over 100GB each, the PS5's built-in storage can fill up quickly. The M.2 expansion slot allows for adding 250GB to 8TB of high-speed storage, with 1TB being the ideal balance of capacity and cost. For those with extensive libraries, 4TB options are available.

Beyond internal SSDs, external hard drives can be used to store PS5 games for quick access, although they cannot run PS5 games directly. PS4 titles, however, can be played directly from an external SSD or HDD.

For guidance on installing your PS5 SSD, check out our guide on how to upgrade your PS5 storage. The process is straightforward and doesn't require extensive hardware knowledge.

1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

Best PS5 SSD

Our Top Pick: Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

With read speeds up to 7,100MB/s and a preinstalled heatsink, this SSD is designed for quick data loading. It offers excellent value and high read speeds, although it's not the fastest drive available.

See it at Amazon!

Product Specifications:
Capacity: 1TB
Sequential read speed: 7,100MB/s
Sequential write speed: 5,800MB/s
NAND type: 3D TLC
TBW: 700TB

Pros:
- Excellent value
- High read speed

Cons:
- Not the fastest drive around

The Corsair MP600 Pro LPX was one of the first SSDs marketed specifically for the PS5 and remains a top choice. Although newer SSDs on PCIe 5.0 may be faster, the PS5 can't fully utilize these speeds, making the MP600 Pro LPX a cost-effective option at around $80 for 1TB.

2. Crucial T500

Best Budget PS5 SSD

Crucial T500

This 1TB drive offers high speeds and includes a heatsink, making it a great value option under $100. It's an ideal choice for doubling your PS5 storage without breaking the bank.

See it at Amazon!

Product Specifications:
Capacity: 1TB
Sequential read speed: 7,300MB/s
Sequential write speed: 6,800MB/s
NAND type: Micron TLC
TBW: 600TB

Pros:
- TLC 3D NAND flash memory
- Impressive speeds

Cons:
- No 4TB option

The Crucial T500 offers a significant performance upgrade over its predecessor, the P5 Plus, and is an excellent budget option. It features Micron TLC 3D NAND flash memory, ensuring fast read and write speeds suitable for gaming.

3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus

Best PS5 SSD Without Heatsink

Samsung 990 Evo Plus

Offering excellent performance at a reasonable price, the Samsung 990 Evo Plus is a solid choice for PS5 users, though it requires a separate heatsink purchase.

See it at Best Buy!

Product Specifications:
Capacity: 1TB – 4TB
Sequential read speed: 7,250MB/s
Sequential write speed: 6,300MB/s
NAND type: Samsung V-NAND TLC
TBW: 600TB (1TB), 1200TB (2TB), 2400TB (4TB)

Pros:
- Excellent performance for the money
- Extremely fast load times

Cons:
- Doesn't come with a heatsink

The Samsung 990 Evo Plus provides high performance without a high price tag. Its endurance rating is lower than the more expensive 990 Pro, but it's more than sufficient for console use. It's a DRAM-less SSD, but this doesn't impact PS5 gaming performance.

4. WD_Black P40

Best External PS5 SSD

WD_Black P40

This 1TB external SSD offers 2,000MB/s read speeds and a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connection, making it a faster alternative to traditional hard drives. While it can't run PS5 games directly, it's ideal for storing game data and playing PS4 titles.

See it at Amazon!

Product Specifications:
Capacity: 1TB
Sequential read speed: 2,000MB/s
Sequential write speed: 2,000MB/s
NAND type: WD TLC
TBW: 600TB

Pros:
- Faster than traditional hard drive
- Multiplatform support

Cons:
- Can't run PS5 games

The WD_Black P40 is an excellent external SSD option for PS5 users, offering fast data transfer speeds and compatibility with multiple platforms. It's perfect for storing large games like Spider-Man 2 without the need to redownload them.

PS5 SSD FAQ

Is an SSD worth it for PS5?

Absolutely. The PS5's internal storage is quickly consumed by system files and large game sizes. An SSD is a valuable investment for gamers who want to keep multiple games installed or enjoy live service games that expand over time.

What speed SSD should I get for PS5?

You should aim for an SSD with a read speed of at least 5,500MB/s. PCIe 4.0 drives generally meet this requirement, and speeds above 6,500MB/s are ideal for most gaming needs.

When is the best time to buy a PS5 SSD?

The best times to purchase a PS5 SSD are during major sales events like Amazon Prime Day in July, and Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when discounts are typically significant.

Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it for the PS5?

No, PCIe 5.0 SSDs are not worth the extra cost for the PS5. The console supports PCIe 4.0 and can't utilize the full speeds of PCIe 5.0 drives, making PCIe 4.0 SSDs a more economical and suitable choice.