Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The best way to expand a PS5 for playing more PS5 games is a compatible internal M.2 NVMe SSD. It adds space for downloading, updating and running PS5 titles without moving them. A SuperSpeed USB drive is less expensive for archiving PS5 games and playing PS4 games, but PS5 games stored there must be copied back before they can run.
No confirmed storage specifications for a next-generation PlayStation are published in the official material available for this guide. Buy an expansion to solve your current PS5 capacity problem, and treat any future usefulness as a possibility—not a compatibility promise.
Choose the storage type that matches how you play
PS5 expansion storage has two distinct jobs. An internal M.2 drive behaves like additional high-speed console storage. USB extended storage behaves mainly as an archive and PS4-games drive.
| Storage path | PS5 games | PS4 games | Best for | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Internal M.2 NVMe SSD | Download, update and play directly | Download, update and play directly | Keeping a large PS5 library ready to launch | Higher purchase cost and a careful installation |
| USB extended storage | Store and move; copy back before playing | Install and play directly | Low-cost capacity, PS5-game archiving and direct PS4 play | PS5 games cannot run directly from the USB drive |
Sony describes an M.2 SSD as “a high-speed solid state drive medium that you can use to increase the storage capacity of your PS5® console or PS5 Digital Edition console.” Its support guidance also states, “PS5 games are playable on M.2 SSD storage.” By contrast, its USB guidance says, “PS5 games can’t be played directly from USB extended storage.”
#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.
Use an internal SSD when convenience matters
Choose an M.2 drive if you routinely switch among several large PS5 games, want updates to install without a transfer step, or do not want to manage an archive. Once installed and formatted, it appears as a selectable installation location alongside the console’s built-in storage.
Use USB when cost or archiving matters more
A USB drive is useful when you want to keep games downloaded so you do not have to download them again. It also suits a PS4-heavy library because PS4 games can be played from the drive. The transfer step is unavoidable for PS5 titles: Sony says they must be copied to console storage or M.2 storage before play.
Check every M.2 requirement before buying
Do not select a drive solely because a listing says “NVMe” or “PS5 compatible.” Compare the drive and its cooling hardware with Sony’s limits. The dimensions include the heatsink or other heat-dissipation structure, not just the bare circuit board.
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 problems| Requirement | Sony’s published specification | What to verify on the listing |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe SSD, Key M | The interface must be PCIe Gen4x4; M.2 SATA is unsupported |
| Capacity | 250GB to 8TB | Formatted capacity will be lower than the advertised decimal capacity |
| Supported lengths | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 and 22110 | The drive length must match a supported mounting position |
| Maximum width | 25mm, including cooling hardware | Include any side-mounted or protruding heatsink parts in the measurement |
| Maximum length | 30mm, 42mm, 60mm, 80mm or 110mm, depending on the form factor | Measure the complete assembly and use the corresponding spacer position |
| Maximum total thickness | 11.25mm overall: up to 8.0mm above the board and 2.45mm below it | Check both sides; a thin board can still exceed the limit after a heatsink is fitted |
| Sequential read speed | 5,500MB/s or faster recommended | Use the manufacturer’s sequential-read figure, not a random-read or peak-marketing number |
| Cooling | A heatsink or another effective heat-dissipation structure is required | Buy a drive with a compatible built-in heatsink or add one that remains within the thickness limits |
Why PCIe Gen4x4 and Key M matter
The expansion bay is designed for an M.2 NVMe device using four PCIe Gen4 lanes and a Key M connector. An M.2 SATA SSD can have the same physical shape but uses a different storage interface, so it will not work in the PS5 expansion bay.
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.
Fit the complete cooled drive, not only the SSD
Measure the SSD, label, thermal pad and heatsink as one assembly. A drive that fits without a heatsink can become too thick after cooling hardware is added. A model with a built-in heatsink is acceptable; do not stack a second heatsink on top of it.
Treat the speed figure as a recommendation, not a guarantee
Sony recommends at least 5,500MB/s sequential read speed, but also cautions that satisfying the listed numbers does not guarantee every third-party drive. Game performance can differ from the PS5’s internal SSD. Select a well-supported Gen4 drive from a manufacturer that publishes complete specifications, then retain the receipt in case the hardware fails.
Choose a capacity without paying for space you cannot use
The supported range is broad enough for a small 250GB expansion or an 8TB maximum-capacity installation. Your practical choice depends on how many games you keep installed, how often you archive to USB, and whether you want to avoid moving games between drives.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWhen a 2TB drive is the sensible starting point
A “PS5 compatible 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD with heatsink” is a useful buying description because it combines a common capacity with the required interface and cooling. It gives a substantial library of additional space without forcing the highest-capacity purchase. Confirm the exact dimensions and interface on the product specification page rather than trusting the phrase alone.
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.
When to choose more or less
- 250GB to 1TB: Suitable when you rotate a small number of PS5 games or already archive older titles to USB. Leave room for patches and temporary installation files.
- 2TB: A balanced option for most owners who want several large games ready to launch and do not want frequent transfers.
- 4TB to 8TB: Appropriate for a very large digital library or household sharing, provided the complete cooled drive remains within the bay’s limits. Check the console’s current support documentation for any model-specific changes before purchase.
Advertised capacity is not the same as free capacity after formatting and system overhead. The PS5 will show the usable amount during setup, so plan around the console’s reported free space rather than the number on the box.
Install an internal M.2 SSD safely
Installation opens the console and requires the expansion-bay cover to be removed. Work slowly; forcing the cover, spacer or retaining screw can damage the console or drive.
- Update the PS5. Install the latest available system software before opening the console. A current system improves compatibility with the storage-management screens and avoids troubleshooting an outdated firmware build.
- Shut down completely. Use the power menu to turn the PS5 off, not Rest Mode. Wait until the indicators are fully dark, then disconnect every cable.
- Let the console cool. Place it on a stable, protected surface with enough room to work. Touch a grounded metal object before handling the SSD to discharge static electricity.
- Remove the model-specific outer cover. The removal direction differs between PS5 chassis designs. Consult the instructions for your exact console model and do not pry against ports or the disc drive.
- Open the expansion bay. Remove the small expansion-slot cover and keep its screw safe. Inside the bay, locate the retaining screw and the adjustable spacer.
- Set the spacer to the SSD length. Move it to the hole marked for the drive’s form factor—2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 or 22110. The spacer supports the far end of the module.
- Insert the M.2 drive diagonally. Align the Key M connector with the socket and slide the module in fully. Do not press down before the connector is seated.
- Lower and secure the drive. Gently press the free end down onto the spacer and fasten it with the supplied screw. The board should lie flat without bending, and the heatsink must not touch the cover.
- Close the bay and replace the outer cover. Refit both covers before reconnecting cables. A cover that will not sit flush is a sign to stop and recheck the drive’s height or position.
- Reconnect and start the PS5. Follow the on-screen prompt to format the new M.2 storage. Formatting is required for first use and erases any data already on that SSD.
What happens if you skip formatting?
The PS5 cannot use the drive for game installation until it is formatted in the console. If the SSD contains files from a computer or another device, copy anything important elsewhere before accepting the format prompt; the process is destructive.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Set the installation location and move existing games
After formatting, decide where new downloads should go. Open Settings > Storage > Installation Location, then choose the M.2 SSD for PS5 games, PS4 games or both according to the options shown on your console.
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
To relocate an installed title, open Game Library, highlight the game, press the Options button, and choose Move Games and Apps. Select the destination and confirm. Moving changes where the files live; it does not delete your license or cloud-save entitlement.
Keep free space for updates
A drive that is technically full can fail an update even when the finished patch is small because the console may need temporary working space. Keep a buffer on both the internal storage and M.2 drive, and archive games you no longer play instead of waiting for an installation error.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Set up USB extended storage for archives and PS4 games
Sony’s current USB-storage guide requires a SuperSpeed USB connection rated at 5Gbps or later and a capacity from 250GB to 8TB. Use a drive that meets those requirements and connect it directly to a compatible PS5 USB port.
- Connect the USB drive directly to the PS5; do not route it through a USB hub.
- Open the console’s storage settings and follow the prompt to format the drive as USB extended storage. Formatting erases data already on it.
- Choose the USB drive as the installation location when you want PS4 games installed there, or use the game-management command to move existing titles.
- For a PS5 game, move it to USB when you want to archive it. To play it later, move or copy it back to console storage or the internal M.2 SSD.
- Use the console’s eject or safely-remove control before unplugging the drive. Disconnecting during a transfer can corrupt the file system and force a reformat.
Do not confuse USB speed with M.2 performance
USB extended storage solves capacity and download-time problems, not the requirement for direct PS5 execution. Even a fast external drive remains an archive for PS5 titles because the console does not launch those games from USB extended storage.
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.
Troubleshoot the problems that cause most failed installations
| Symptom | Likely cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| The PS5 does not detect the M.2 SSD | Loose insertion, unsupported interface, incorrect mounting position or a physical fit problem | Power off, reseat the module, confirm PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe Key M, check the spacer position and inspect the complete dimensions |
| The expansion-bay cover will not close | Heatsink assembly exceeds the height or width limit, or the drive is not seated flat | Remove the drive and measure the full cooled assembly; never force the cover or stack another heatsink |
| The console offers to format a drive you need | The SSD or USB drive contains data from another device | Cancel, back up the files elsewhere, then return to the PS5 and format only when the data is safe |
| A PS5 game on USB will not launch | This is expected behavior for USB extended storage | Copy the game to console storage or M.2 storage before starting it |
| Files become corrupted after using USB storage | The drive was unplugged without a safe removal or a transfer was interrupted | Reconnect it, allow the PS5 to repair or check the drive, and always use the eject control before removal |
| Performance feels different from the built-in SSD | Third-party drive behavior varies even when published requirements are met | Confirm the drive’s specifications, keep cooling unobstructed and contact the drive manufacturer if errors persist |
Prevent static and physical damage
Handle the SSD by its edges, ground yourself before touching contacts, and keep the console supported while covers are removed. Do not operate the PS5 with the expansion-bay cover missing, and do not tighten the retaining screw against a drive that is not aligned with the spacer.
What “future-proof” can realistically mean
The official PlayStation material reviewed for this guide specifies current PS5 storage, not a next-generation console. No confirmed future-console interface, bay dimensions, capacity range or backward-compatibility policy is established there. Therefore, no present SSD can honestly be promised to fit or function unchanged in the next PlayStation.
A current Gen4 NVMe M.2 drive may remain useful in a future computer or enclosure that supports the same standard, but that is separate from console compatibility. Buy the drive for the games and capacity you need on today’s PS5. If a later console accepts a different interface, thickness, firmware qualification or proprietary module, the existing drive may not transfer even though it remains a functional SSD elsewhere.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Quick Recap
A final buying and installation checklist
- Decide whether you need direct PS5 play (internal M.2) or inexpensive storage and PS4 play (USB).
- For M.2, verify PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe, Key M, 250GB–8TB capacity and one of the supported form factors.
- Measure width, length and total thickness with the heatsink installed; stay within Sony’s published limits.
- Choose a heatsink or equivalent cooling structure, and never add a second heatsink over a built-in one.
- Prefer a sequential read rating of at least 5,500MB/s, while recognizing that Sony does not guarantee every third-party model.
- Back up data before formatting either storage type.
- Shut down and cool the console before opening it, then use the exact spacer position for the SSD length.
- Set Settings > Storage > Installation Location after formatting and use Game Library > Options > Move Games and Apps to reorganize existing titles.
- Eject USB storage safely and keep PS5 games on USB only when you accept the copy-back step.
- Evaluate any next-generation compatibility only after Sony publishes specifications for that hardware.
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.
