Recommended Free Tools
The quickest no-cost fix is to uninstall a game or app you are not playing, then install the new game. If you want to keep older games on the console, use external storage—but check whether your platform can play games directly from that drive or requires you to move them back first.
Check what is using storage
On PS5
Open Settings > Storage to see space used by games, media, and saved data. To remove an installed game or app, go to Console Storage > Games and Apps and delete something you are not currently using. Sony says purchased games and apps can be downloaded again from your game library. See Sony’s PS5 storage instructions.
On Xbox
Use the console’s storage-management interface to identify games or content you can remove. Xbox lists uninstalling games as a way to make room, but its getting-started guidance does not give a current detailed menu path. Xbox’s getting-started page also lists external storage and, for Series X|S, a storage expansion card.
Choose the fastest option for your situation
| Option | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Delete a game or app | Making room immediately without buying storage | You will need to install the game again before playing it. Sony says purchased games and apps can be downloaded from the library. Sony support. |
| External USB storage | Keeping less-used games stored locally | On PS5, PS5 games on USB must be copied back to console storage or an M.2 SSD before they can be played; PS4 games can be played directly from USB extended storage. Xbox lists an external hard drive as a storage option, but the cited Xbox guidance does not specify playback rules for every game type or console model. Sony support; Xbox. |
| PS5-compatible M.2 SSD | Adding storage from which games can remain installed and launch | Sony says compatible M.2 storage can be used to download, store, manage, and play PS5 and PS4 games. Check the drive against Sony’s compatibility and installation requirements. Sony M.2 SSD requirements. |
| Xbox Series X|S expansion card | Adding Series X|S storage for installing and playing games directly | Xbox Wire describes the card as supporting direct game installation and play, as well as moving or copying games. It is distinct from an ordinary external hard drive; verify that a specific card is compatible with your console. Xbox Wire. |
Keep games on USB storage
PS5 games need to be moved back to play
PS5 USB extended storage can hold game data and free space on the console, but it is storage rather than a place to launch PS5 games. Copy a PS5 game back to console storage or an M.2 SSD before playing. PS4 games can run directly from PS5 USB extended storage. Sony’s extended-storage guidance explains the distinction.
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Xbox external-drive rules depend on the game and console
An external hard drive is one of Xbox’s listed storage options. The available Xbox guidance here does not establish the direct-play rules for every game type and Xbox model, so do not assume every title can launch from every USB drive. If direct play is important, check the requirements for the specific console, game, and storage device before moving or installing it.
Expand storage for games you want ready to play
PS5: check M.2 compatibility
A compatible M.2 SSD is the PS5 expansion option documented for downloading, storing, managing, and playing PS5 and PS4 games. The drive must meet Sony’s compatibility and performance requirements, so consult the M.2 installation and compatibility guidance before buying or installing one.
Rank #2
- 【Officially Licensed SSD 】This external SSD uses specially-selected materials and has passed our exclusive quality inspection to work with PS5 / PS4.
- 【Eliminate PS5(R) Storage Shortages】You can expand the free space on your system by saving PS5(R) game data and PS4(R) game titles onto this product.
- 【Reduce Loading Times on PS4(R)】 Reduce game loading times for more enjoyable gameplay experiences.
- 【Compact Stick Type】The cable-free and compact USB stick design enables easy connection with your game console without taking up space.
- 【Accessories】 Setup Guide / Warranty Statement
Xbox Series X|S: distinguish the expansion card from USB storage
Xbox Wire describes the Series X|S expansion card as allowing players to install games by default, play directly from it, and move or copy games between local and external storage. That describes the expansion card, not every external hard drive. Confirm the exact product’s compatibility with your Series X|S console. Read Xbox Wire’s description.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Pick based on how you play
- Need room for one install now: remove a game or app you are not using. On PS5, purchased items can be downloaded again from the library.
- Want to keep older titles stored: consider an external drive, but account for the PS5 requirement to move PS5 games back before playing.
- Want added PS5 storage games can launch from: compare compatible M.2 SSDs against Sony’s requirements.
- Have an Xbox Series X|S and want to play from added storage: distinguish the expansion card from a general external hard drive, and verify compatibility.
These options differ in upfront cost, whether a game remains installed, whether it can launch from that storage, and console compatibility. The cited official guidance does not establish current prices, so compare current product listings separately.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsQuick Recap
Rank #3
- BEST VALUE SSD – Compact and reliable SSD to meet your on-the-go demand. Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs. Save space and loading time on your console by storing your game data on Buffalo SSDs.
- IDEAL ON-THE-GO ACCESSORY - Quickly copy your large data. If you are a professional in need of fast and secure storage, the Buffalo SSD is ready for on-the-go backup for photos, videos, docs, and more.
- FAST SPEEDS AND MULTI-TASKING - Faster speed than HDD enables you to connect the device to PC and do large intensive tasks simultaneously.
- COMPACT, DURABLE, & RELIABLE – Shock-resistant, rugged design provides drop protection. Compact form factor to carry your data in your pocket. No matter if it’s for work or fun, you can easily use your Buffalo SSD on-the-go.
- USB 3.2 CONNECTIVITY & 3-YEAR WARRANTY – Supports USB-C / USB-A. Easily connect the Buffalo SSD to your PC and other mobile devices. THREE-YEAR WARRANTY for registered devices (two years if unregistered).
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.
