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You can add internal storage to a PS5 by installing a compatible PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD in its expansion slot. Before buying, check the complete drive-and-cooling dimensions and the console’s model group; during installation, seat the drive fully without forcing it. The PS5 will ask you to format the SSD on first use, which erases its data.
Check that the M.2 SSD fits and is compatible
Sony’s PS5 M.2 SSD requirements call for an M.2 NVMe drive with a PCI-Express Gen4 x4 interface and an M Key connector. M.2 SATA drives are not supported. Sony lists capacity from 250 GB to 8 TB and supports the 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, and 22110 form factors.
Check the full assembly dimensions, including any heatsink or other cooling structure. The maximum width is 25 mm; the length must be 30, 42, 60, 80, or 110 mm; and thickness must not exceed 11.25 mm. Within that thickness, Sony specifies up to 8.0 mm above the board and 2.45 mm below it. The dimensions matter because the cooling structure must fit inside the slot as well as the SSD itself.
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|---|---|
| Interface and connector | PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe; M Key. M.2 SATA is unsupported. |
| Capacity | 250 GB to 8 TB. |
| Supported sizes | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110. |
| Maximum width | 25 mm, including the cooling structure. |
| Maximum thickness | 11.25 mm total: up to 8.0 mm above the board and 2.45 mm below it. |
| Sequential read speed | At least 5,500 MB/s recommended; this is a recommendation, not a guarantee of matching the PS5’s internal drive. |
Cooling and HMB caveats
The SSD needs effective heat dissipation, such as a heatsink and heat-transfer sheet. Some drives include cooling; others need a compatible solution bought separately. Sony says single-sided cooling structures are easier to fit, but both single- and double-sided SSDs are supported. Do not add a second heatsink over one built into the drive: Sony recommends against stacking them because it may reduce the built-in heatsink’s effectiveness.
#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 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.
Sony also says the PS5 does not support Host Memory Buffer (HMB). An HMB-capable SSD may therefore run slower than expected. Even a drive that meets every listed specification is not guaranteed to work: Sony says it cannot guarantee all qualifying third-party drives and does not promise that games will perform exactly as they do on the internal Ultra-High Speed SSD.
Prepare the console and work area
First identify your PS5 model group. Sony provides different cover-removal procedures for CFI-1000 and CFI-2000/7000 consoles. Use the diagrams for the matching group on the official installation page; do not assume the covers open the same way.
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).
- Turn the console off, unplug it, and let it cool before opening it. Work on a flat, protected surface with good lighting.
- Have a #1 Phillips or cross-head screwdriver ready. A small flashlight is optional.
- Before handling the drive, touch a metal-grounded object to discharge static.
- Do not touch the SSD’s terminals or the console’s expansion connector. Use a correctly sized screwdriver, and keep the small screws and spacer from falling into the console.
- Do not power on or use the console while a cover is off.
If a small part falls inside the console, do not turn it on; consult PlayStation Support. Sony’s PS5 safety guide for CFI-20XX also warns that covers must be reinstalled correctly to avoid overheating.
Install the M.2 SSD
- With the console off, unplugged, and cool, remove the outer cover using the procedure for your model group: CFI-1000 or CFI-2000/7000.
- Remove the expansion-slot cover screw and the slot cover.
- Remove the SSD retaining screw and spacer. Move the spacer to the hole that matches the length of your SSD.
- Hold the SSD by its edge. Align the notch with the expansion connector, then insert the drive diagonally upward until it is fully seated. Do not force it, and do not touch the contacts.
- Tilt the SSD down onto the spacer and secure it with the retaining screw. Make sure the cooling structure does not obstruct the screw or prevent the drive from sitting correctly.
- Replace and fasten the expansion-slot cover, then reinstall the outer cover and any feet or base components required for your model.
- Reconnect power and start the console. Follow the on-screen instructions to format the SSD for first use.
For CFI-1000 consoles, Sony specifically says the SSD circuit board should rest flush on the spacer. The drive must be fully inserted; incomplete or incorrect seating can damage the terminal or console. If the slot cover will not close properly, Sony says the cooling structure may exceed the size requirements.
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.
Format the SSD and choose where games install
The PS5 prompts you to format a new M.2 SSD the first time the console uses it. Formatting erases all data on that drive, so make sure it contains nothing you need before continuing. Do not turn off the console while it formats the SSD or saves data.
You can use M.2 storage for PS5 and PS4 games and media apps, including downloading, copying, and launching them. To choose where new games and apps install, open Settings > Storage > Installation Location. To move installed games or apps, use Game Library.
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).
PS5 games stored on an M.2 SSD can be played directly from it. PS5 games on USB extended storage must be copied back to console storage or M.2 storage before you can play them. PlayStation’s September 2021 system software announcement described the launch of M.2 expansion support; the current installation and compatibility details are on Sony’s support page.
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Sony says you do not need to format an M.2 SSD again when moving it between two PS5 consoles. To access the games stored on it, sign in to the same account. Remove the M.2 SSD before sending the console for repair.
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.
If you have gameplay issues with a game stored on M.2, Sony’s first recommended remedy is to move the game to internal console storage. The SSD specification alone cannot guarantee identical performance across games or drives.
Quick Recap
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