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
To make room for another PS Plus Extra game, open Settings > Storage, review what is consuming space, then use Console Storage > Games and Apps to delete games or remove optional content. Deleted purchases remain available to download again from your Game Library. For games you want to keep but rarely play, use a USB extended-storage drive as an archive. If you want to install and launch PS5 games without copying them back, install a compatible M.2 SSD and set it as an installation location.
How PS5 storage is divided
The PS5 treats installed games, applications, media, saved data and expansion devices as separate storage concerns. Understanding those categories prevents the most common mistake: deleting a large game when the item consuming space is actually a video clip or screenshot.
- Console storage: The internal drive where PS5 games, PS4 games and applications can be installed and launched.
- USB extended storage: A compatible external USB drive used to store games outside the console. PS4 games can launch directly from it; PS5 games cannot.
- M.2 SSD storage: A compatible SSD installed inside the PS5 expansion bay. It can hold and launch both PS5 and PS4 games.
- Saved data: Your progress, settings and other save files. Saved data is managed separately from the game installation itself.
- Media gallery data: Screenshots and video captures, which can grow quickly if you record gameplay often.
Menu names can vary slightly with PS5 system software, but the storage workflow remains the same. If a label differs on your console, look for the equivalent Storage, Games and Apps, Installation Location or Move Games and Apps command.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteCheck free space before installing a PS Plus Extra game
Start with the console’s own storage screen rather than guessing how much room a game needs.
#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.
- Open Settings from the PS5 home screen.
- Select Storage.
- Review the bars or categories for console storage, games and apps, media gallery and saved data.
- Open Console Storage > Games and Apps to sort through installed titles and identify the largest candidates for removal or relocation.
There is no universal number of PS Plus Extra games that fits on a PS5. Installation sizes differ substantially between games, and updates, language packs and downloadable content can change the amount required. Use the free-space figure shown by your console and the installation size displayed for the title you are adding.
Leave additional headroom instead of filling the drive to its last few megabytes. The console needs working space for downloads, updates, copying and temporary installation files. A game that appears to fit exactly can still fail during installation if an update or temporary copy requires more space.
Delete an installed game without deleting its save
Deleting a game installation removes the program files from storage; it does not automatically erase the separate saved-data entry. This is the normal way to clear space while preserving progress.
Remove the game files
- Go to Settings > Storage.
- Select Console Storage > Games and Apps.
- Choose the game or games you no longer need installed.
- Select Delete and confirm.
A purchased game that you delete remains associated with your account and can be downloaded again from the Game Library. A PS Plus Extra title can be reinstalled while it is included in the catalog and your subscription provides access; catalog membership and availability can change by region and over time.
Remove only optional content when available
Some games expose a Customize option instead of requiring an all-or-nothing deletion. Use it to remove selected add-ons, language packs or completed portions of a game when the title provides those choices. The available components depend on the game, so do not assume every installation can be reduced this way.
Rank #2
- [2TB] Exceptional performance up to 7400MB/s read, 6500MB/s write; 1500TBW
- 2x faster than PCIe Gen 3 SSDs
- Designed with a heatsink to keep your rig cool for better performance and power efficiency
- Up to 40% less power consumption than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs
- Host Memory Buffer (HMB) 3.0 activates the DRAM cache function of your device for a smoother transfer speed and seamless performance
- Open Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps.
- Select the title and choose Customize, if shown.
- Clear the optional packs or portions you no longer need.
- Confirm the removal and check the updated free-space figure.
What deletion does not do
- It does not remove a purchased entitlement from your account.
- It does not automatically delete saved data.
- It does not cancel your PlayStation Plus subscription.
- It does not guarantee that a PS Plus Extra title will remain in the catalog; catalog availability is time- and region-sensitive.
USB extended storage versus an M.2 SSD
Both options expand the space available for a growing library, but they serve different purposes. USB extended storage is primarily an archive for games you are not playing today. An installed M.2 SSD behaves like additional internal storage and is suitable for a directly playable PS5 library.
| Storage option | Can launch PS5 games directly? | Can launch PS4 games directly? | Typical role | What you must do before playing a stored PS5 game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USB extended storage | No | Yes | Archive and move less frequently played titles | Copy the PS5 game back to console storage or an M.2 SSD |
| Compatible M.2 SSD | Yes | Yes | Permanent, playable expansion library | Nothing beyond installing or moving the game to the M.2 SSD |
Sony’s support guidance states that PS5 games cannot be played directly from USB extended storage and must be copied back when you want to play them. The same guidance states that an M.2 SSD installed in the PS5 can download, copy and launch PS5 and PS4 games, as well as media applications.
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 →Use USB extended storage as a PS5 game archive
When USB storage is the better choice
Choose USB extended storage when you want inexpensive, removable capacity for games you may return to later, especially PS4 games that can remain playable on the drive. It is also useful when your internet connection makes repeated downloads inconvenient. A USB drive does not turn PS5 games into directly playable titles, so plan for a copy operation whenever you switch back to one.
Move games to the USB drive
- Connect a compatible USB extended-storage drive to the PS5 and allow the console to format it if prompted. Formatting erases existing content on that drive, so copy off anything you need first.
- Open Game Library on the home screen.
- Highlight the game you want to relocate.
- Press the Options button on the controller.
- Select Move Games and Apps.
- Choose the USB extended-storage destination and confirm.
You can also manage movement from the storage menus when the command is offered. The transfer time depends on the game’s size and the drive’s speed. Do not disconnect the drive while the PS5 is moving data.
Play a game stored on USB
- PS4 game: Leave it on USB extended storage and launch it from the Game Library.
- PS5 game: Select Options > Move Games and Apps, choose console storage or the M.2 SSD as the destination, and wait for the copy to finish before launching.
If the drive is unplugged, the PS5 will show the game as unavailable until the drive is reconnected. Use the console’s safe-disconnect command before removing it, and avoid unplugging during a transfer or while a game is running.
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 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.
Install and use an M.2 SSD
Check compatibility before buying
An M.2 SSD must meet Sony’s PS5 compatibility requirements. Verify the current interface, supported capacity range, sequential-read requirement, physical dimensions and heatsink clearance in the console’s current support documentation. A heatsink is required within the permitted size limits; a drive that is electrically compatible can still fail to fit if its heatsink is too tall.
Listings change, so check the exact model, capacity, heatsink dimensions, seller and return policy before purchase. Do not treat a generic “M.2” label as proof that a drive is suitable for PS5.
Install the drive
- Turn off the PS5 completely, unplug it and let it cool.
- Place the console on a stable surface and remove the outer cover according to the model-specific instructions.
- Open the expansion-bay cover, install the compatible M.2 SSD in the slot and secure it with the supplied spacer and screw.
- Reinstall the cover and console panel before reconnecting power.
- Start the PS5. If prompted, format the M.2 SSD for use as expansion storage. Formatting removes data already on the drive.
Installation details differ between the original PS5, PS5 Digital Edition and later hardware revisions. Follow the instructions for your exact model rather than forcing a panel or connector.
Move existing games to the M.2 SSD
- Open Game Library.
- Highlight the installed title.
- Press Options.
- Select Move Games and Apps.
- Choose the M.2 SSD and confirm.
Once the transfer completes, PS5 and PS4 games on the M.2 SSD can be launched from that location. Moving a game does not remove its saved data.
Set the default installation location
If an M.2 SSD is installed, direct new games and applications there so console storage does not fill first.
Rank #4
- 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).
- Open Settings.
- Select Storage.
- Choose Installation Location.
- Set the preferred destination, such as M.2 SSD Storage, for PS5 games, PS4 games or applications as the available options permit.
Check this setting before starting a large PS Plus Extra download. A title already queued or partially downloaded may continue using its original destination, so review the download and storage screens if the free-space figure changes unexpectedly.
Protect saved data separately
Game installations and saved data are separate. Deleting or moving a game is normally safe for progress, but deliberately deleting saved data is a different operation and can permanently remove local saves.
Use PlayStation Plus cloud storage
PlayStation Plus cloud storage is designed for saved data. Current PlayStation support guidance lists 100 GB of cloud storage for PS5 and PS4 consoles. Treat that capacity as a backup resource for saves, not as a place to store game installations.
- Open Settings.
- Go to the saved-data settings for PS5 or PS4 games.
- Choose the cloud-storage option to upload, download or synchronize saved data.
- Confirm that the newest save has uploaded before deleting local saved data or changing consoles.
Cloud availability depends on an active PlayStation Plus entitlement and the account being used. For important progress, verify the upload date and keep the console connected long enough for synchronization to finish.
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 problemsDo not confuse cloud saves with catalog access
A cloud save preserves progress, but it does not guarantee that the associated PS Plus Extra game remains downloadable. The Game Catalog changes by time and region. If a title leaves the catalog, you may need to purchase it or use another entitlement to continue playing it, even though the save remains stored.
Best Value
- 【NVMe PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface】MOVE SPEED 2tb SSD is supported by cutting-edge PCIe 4.0 technology, with a read and write speed of up to 7450MB/s and 6500MB/s, which reduce the delays of the games and operating system. The PCIe 4.0 interface is 2 times faster than the PCIe 3.0 and 13.5 times faster than the SATA SSD, ensuring lightning fast game loading and file transfer times. Nvme pcie 4.0 ssd use less power and get more performance, making it the best choice for upgrading.
- 【Compatible with PS5 & Large Capacity】MOVE SPEED M.2 2tb SSD perfectly compatible with PS5, laptop, PC. Featuring an M.2 2280 (80mm) form factor, it's compact and easy to install. M.2 ps5 ssd offers large storage capacity of 1TB/2TB, providing ample storage space for work, study or games. Unrivaled performance and large storage capacity make it easily upgradeable and be ready at all the time. With up to 2TB storage, your PS5 has extra room to store up to 50 games. Always ready for next games.
- 【Premium Quality】Our m.2 ssd for PS5 utilizes high-quality 3D Nand flash memory chips and cutting-edge Maxio MAP1602 controller technology. After 6 rounds of extreme tests(16 hours of high and low temperature aging test, 8 hours of 2000 times of dormancy test, 48 hours of continuous transmission test), almost 80-hour rigorous test prove its stability and long service life.
- 【Plug and Play & Strongly Cooling】The NVMe m.2 SSD has a built-in 1mm graphene composite heat sink, which can strongly cool down the chip by 10 degrees during works or games, avoiding high-temperature slowdown and jamming, and our package comes with an heat sink(not installed), screws and screwdriver. Easy installation, plug and play. Cools and maintains exceptional performance during overloaded. Notes:The heatsink install tutorial can be found on our details page, or ask our after-service team.
- 【What's in the Box】Package includes a 2TB solid state drive SSD, heatsink(not installed), screws, screwdriver, user manual. 7 x 24 friendly and efficient customer service, 30 days 100% return and refund if there're any problems with the ssd. With the strong R&D and production support of our own MOVE SPEED factories, we can provide consumers with the ultimate product experience and after-sales service.
A practical workflow for every new PS Plus Extra download
Use this sequence whenever you want to install another catalog game.
- Check the destination: Open Settings > Storage > Installation Location and confirm whether new PS5 games should go to console storage or the M.2 SSD.
- Check available space: Return to Settings > Storage and note the free-space amount on that destination.
- Protect progress: If you are removing a game you have played, verify its saved data and cloud synchronization first.
- Trim optional content: In Console Storage > Games and Apps, use Customize where the game offers removable add-ons or portions.
- Delete or archive: Delete a title you can redownload, move a dormant PS4 title to USB, or move a dormant PS5 title to USB knowing it must be copied back later.
- Install the new title: Start the PS Plus Extra download and monitor the destination and free-space indicators.
- After installation: Check for updates and confirm that the game appears in the correct storage location.
Choose the right storage strategy
Use only console storage when
- You rotate through a small number of games.
- You want the simplest setup with no additional hardware.
- You regularly delete and redownload titles rather than keeping an archive.
Add USB extended storage when
- You need more capacity mainly for games you play occasionally.
- You have many PS4 games and want to launch them without copying.
- You accept copying PS5 games back before playing them.
Add an M.2 SSD when
- You want a larger library of directly playable PS5 games.
- You frequently switch among several installed PS5 titles.
- You prefer one-time installation and transfer work over repeated USB copy operations.
Some owners use both: an M.2 SSD for frequently played PS5 games, console storage for active downloads and applications, and USB extended storage as a long-term archive.
Troubleshooting storage problems
The PS5 says there is not enough space
- Recheck Settings > Storage and identify the destination that is actually full.
- Delete large games from Console Storage > Games and Apps, or move them using Options > Move Games and Apps.
- Review the media gallery; large recordings can be overlooked when you focus only on games.
- Leave room for temporary installation and update files instead of targeting an exact fit.
A PS5 game on USB will not start
This is expected behavior, not necessarily a faulty drive. Move the game from USB extended storage to console storage or the M.2 SSD, then launch it after the copy finishes.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
The M.2 SSD is not detected
- Power the console off and reseat the drive.
- Confirm that the SSD and heatsink meet the current PS5 physical and performance requirements.
- Check that the expansion-bay cover and console panel are installed correctly.
- If the console offers to format the drive, remember that formatting erases its existing contents.
A moved game appears unavailable
For a USB-stored game, reconnect the same drive and wait for the console to recognize it. For a PS Plus Extra title, also check whether the game is still in the current Game Catalog for your region and whether the account has the required subscription entitlement.
Progress is missing after reinstalling
Check the saved-data settings and download the correct cloud save. Make sure you are using the same PlayStation Network account and the same game edition or region where applicable. Reinstalling the game alone does not restore a save that was never uploaded or was deleted locally.
Storage maintenance checklist
- Check Settings > Storage before every large installation.
- Review Games and Apps by size and remove games you are not currently playing.
- Use Customize for optional add-ons when the game supports it.
- Archive dormant PS5 games to USB only if you are comfortable copying them back later.
- Keep frequently played PS5 games on console storage or a compatible M.2 SSD.
- Synchronize important saves to PlayStation Plus cloud storage before deleting installations or local saves.
- Safely disconnect USB storage and never unplug it during transfers.
- Recheck PS Plus Extra catalog availability before deleting a game that would be difficult to redownload.
- Verify the exact M.2 SSD model, capacity and heatsink clearance before installation.
What to remember
Deleting a PS Plus Extra game installation is the fastest way to reclaim space, and it normally leaves saved data intact. USB extended storage is the economical archive choice: PS4 games can run from it, while PS5 games must be copied back. A compatible M.2 SSD is the playable expansion choice for both PS5 and PS4 games. Set the installation location deliberately, protect saves through cloud storage, and treat Game Catalog availability as changeable by region and date.
Quick Recap
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.
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 →
