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 practical way to add PS5 capacity for GTA 6 is an internal M.2 NVMe SSD. It becomes part of the console’s game storage, so PS5 games can launch from it. A USB extended-storage drive is cheaper and convenient for PS4 games or archiving PS5 installations, but a PS5 game must be copied back before you can play it.
Sony lists GTA VI for PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro on November 19, 2026. Sony and Rockstar have not published an official installation-size figure, so do not plan around leaked numbers. Install a compatible M.2 drive, leave substantial free space, and check the download requirement shown at launch.
Which PS5 storage upgrade should you buy?
Choose the storage type according to where you want games to run:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →| Characteristic | Internal M.2 NVMe SSD | USB extended storage |
|---|---|---|
| Can launch PS5 games directly? | Yes. Compatible PS5 games can be downloaded, copied and launched from the M.2 drive. | No. PS5 game data must be copied to console storage or M.2 storage before playing. |
| Can launch PS4 games directly? | Yes. | Yes, when the drive meets Sony’s USB requirements. |
| Best use | An always-installed library, including current PS5 releases. | PS4 libraries, backups and PS5 games you want to archive. |
| Connection | Internal PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe, Key M. | SuperSpeed USB 5Gbps or faster. |
| Capacity supported by Sony | 250GB to 8TB. | 250GB to 8TB. |
| Installation | Open the console’s expansion bay, fit the SSD and heatsink, then format it. | Connect the drive and format it as USB extended storage. |
| Physical requirements | Strict length, width and thickness limits, plus effective heat dissipation. | The enclosure and cable must support the required USB speed. |
Sony describes the internal option this way: “Once installed in the PS5 console, M.2 SSD storage can be used to download, copy, and launch PS5 and PS4 games, as well as media apps.” That is the decisive difference for a game such as GTA VI.
#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.
PS5 M.2 SSD compatibility checklist
Do not choose an SSD solely by its advertised capacity or a familiar brand. Sony’s compatibility requirements must all be satisfied by the drive and its heat-dissipation structure.
- Interface: PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe (Key M).
- Capacity: 250GB to 8TB.
- Supported lengths: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 and 22110.
- Maximum width: 25mm, including the heat-dissipation solution where applicable.
- Maximum total thickness: 11.25mm, counting the SSD, heatsink and any other heat-dissipation structure.
- Recommended sequential-read speed: 5,500MB/s or faster.
- Thermal control: An effective heatsink or equivalent heat-dissipation structure is required.
The 5,500MB/s figure is Sony’s recommended specification for compatibility. It is not a promise that every supported SSD will produce a measurable loading-speed improvement in every game. Game engines, patches and the rest of the console’s storage system also affect loading.
Why the heatsink dimensions matter
A bare M.2 board can be electrically suitable but physically unsuitable once a heatsink is added. Measure the complete assembly, not just the SSD. A drive that exceeds 25mm in width or 11.25mm in total thickness can prevent the expansion cover from fitting or interfere with the console. Confirm the exact PS5 model and the available clearance before purchase.
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 reinstallOutdated 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 matchA concrete example: Samsung 990 PRO 2TB with Heatsink
The Samsung 990 PRO 2TB with Heatsink (model MZ-V9P2T0CW) illustrates the specifications to look for. Samsung lists it as a PS5-compatible PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe 2.0 drive in the M.2 2280 format. Its listed capacity is 2,000GB, its heatsink dimensions are 80 × 24.3 × 8.2mm, and its maximum sequential-read figure is 7,450MB/s.
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.
Those numbers fit within Sony’s published limits, but a product listing is not a substitute for checking your own console. Verify the exact model, confirm that the heatsink is included, and compare the complete dimensions with the limits above. Retail packaging and regional model numbers can differ, so match the model code rather than relying on a similar product name.
How to install an internal M.2 SSD in a PS5
Back up anything important before beginning. Formatting the new M.2 drive erases data on that drive. Sony also recommends updating the PS5 system software before installation.
- Update the console. Install the latest available PS5 system-software update, then shut the console down completely. Do not work on it in Rest Mode.
- Disconnect power. Unplug the power cable and any other cables. Place the console on a stable, clean surface and allow it to cool.
- Remove the correct covers. Take off the appropriate outer cover for your PS5 model, then remove the expansion-slot cover. Console revisions use different cover shapes, so use the cover that exposes the M.2 bay rather than forcing another panel.
- Set the spacer. Remove the M.2-bay screw and position the supplied spacer at the hole matching the SSD length: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 or 22110.
- Insert the SSD diagonally. Align the drive’s notch with the Key M connector and slide it into the socket at an angle. Do not press it flat until the connector is fully engaged.
- Secure the drive. Press the free end down toward the spacer and fasten it with the screw. The heatsink or other heat-dissipation structure must remain within Sony’s width and thickness limits.
- Reassemble the console. Replace the expansion-slot cover and the outer cover, reconnect the cables and start the PS5.
- Format when prompted. Follow the on-screen M.2-format prompt. Formatting makes the drive usable by the console and permanently erases its existing contents, so use a new or backed-up SSD.
If the SSD is not detected
- Turn the PS5 off and unplug it before opening the bay again.
- Check that the SSD is a PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe Key M model, not a SATA M.2 drive.
- Reseat the SSD so it is fully inserted in the connector and lies flat against the spacer.
- Confirm that the heatsink has not pushed the drive upward and that the cover closes without pressure.
- Recheck the length, 25mm maximum width and 11.25mm total-thickness limits.
- Install the latest system software and repeat the format process.
How to move games to the new M.2 storage
After formatting, use the PS5’s game-management controls rather than reinstalling every title.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
- Open Game Library.
- Highlight a game and press the Options button.
- Choose Move Games and Apps.
- Select the titles and choose the M.2 storage destination.
- Wait for the transfer to finish before launching or disconnecting any external drive.
PS5 games moved to the M.2 drive can launch there. PS4 games and media apps can also be stored and launched from it. The transfer changes the storage location; it does not create a second copy unless you separately choose to copy the data.
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.
Using a USB drive for PS5 storage
USB extended storage is useful when you want a large archive without opening the console. Sony requires a SuperSpeed USB connection rated at 5Gbps or later and a capacity between 250GB and 8TB. Only one USB extended-storage drive is used at a time.
What USB storage can do
- Install and launch PS4 games directly from the USB drive.
- Store PS5 game data when you are not currently playing those games.
- Free console or M.2 space without deleting a game and its updates.
- Move a title back to console or M.2 storage when you want to play it.
What USB storage cannot do
Sony’s guidance is explicit: “PlayStation®5 games can’t be played directly from USB extended storage, so make sure to copy PS5® game data back to your console storage when you want to play the game again.” A USB drive is therefore an archive and PS4-playback solution, not a replacement for an internal M.2 drive when your priority is launching PS5 games.
Connect the compatible drive, follow the PS5 format prompt for USB extended storage, and use the console’s storage-management controls to move titles. Keep the drive connected while a game is being used; unplugging it while data is active can interrupt transfers or make installed games unavailable until the drive is reconnected.
How much space will GTA 6 need?
The official PlayStation listing gives GTA VI a November 19, 2026 release date for PS5 and PS5 Pro, and Rockstar confirms PS5 availability. Neither the reviewed PlayStation nor Rockstar pages publishes an official installation-size figure.
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
That means every leaked number should be treated as unverified. Do not buy a drive based on a rumored download size or repeat a leak as fact. Instead:
- Choose an M.2 capacity that leaves room for the rest of your regularly played PS5 library, not only GTA VI.
- Keep substantial free space available before launch so the initial download and updates have somewhere to install.
- Move games you are not playing to USB extended storage, where they can remain ready to copy back.
- Check the game’s download notice in the PlayStation Store and the space requirement shown by the console at launch.
- After installing GTA VI, leave room for patches and downloadable content rather than filling the drive to its limit.
A 2TB-class M.2 drive gives more working room than a 1TB-class drive, but the right capacity depends on how many large games you keep installed and whether you are willing to archive completed titles. Sony permits M.2 capacities up to 8TB, so you can select a larger compliant drive if your library demands it.
Internal M.2 or USB: a decision guide
Choose an internal M.2 SSD when
- You want to launch PS5 games directly from the added storage.
- You expect to keep GTA VI and several other large PS5 games installed at once.
- You are comfortable opening the expansion bay and checking heatsink dimensions.
- You want one permanently installed library rather than swapping an archive drive.
Choose USB extended storage when
- Your main need is extra PS4 capacity.
- You want to archive PS5 games and copy them back later.
- You prefer a plug-in installation and do not need PS5 games to run from the added drive.
- You already have a compatible SuperSpeed USB drive and want to postpone an M.2 purchase.
Use both when your library is large
The two options solve different problems. Keep frequently played PS5 games on the console or M.2 drive, use USB for PS4 titles and archived PS5 data, and move games between locations through Game Library > Options > Move Games and Apps. This arrangement reduces repeated downloads while preserving direct PS5 playback where it matters.
Recommended Free Tools
Common mistakes and their fixes
Buying a fast-looking but incompatible SSD
Check the interface, Key M connector, supported length, complete heatsink dimensions and capacity range. A high advertised read speed does not correct an incompatible connector or oversized heatsink.
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.
Installing without a heatsink
Sony requires effective heat dissipation. Use a drive with a suitable integrated heatsink or a compatible heat-dissipation structure that remains within the 25mm width and 11.25mm total-thickness limits.
Expecting a USB drive to run PS5 games
This is normal behavior, not a fault. Copy the PS5 title to console or M.2 storage before launching it.
Formatting the wrong drive
Read the format prompt carefully. M.2 formatting erases the new drive, and USB extended-storage formatting also prepares that drive for PS5 use. Back up any existing files before confirming.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Assuming a supported SSD guarantees faster loading
Sony’s 5,500MB/s recommendation establishes a compatibility target. It does not guarantee a uniform loading-time reduction across all games, updates or scenes.
Quick Recap
Practical preparation checklist for GTA VI
- Update PS5 system software.
- Install a PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe Key M SSD between 250GB and 8TB if you want direct PS5 playback.
- Verify the complete SSD-and-heatsink dimensions: supported length, no more than 25mm wide and no more than 11.25mm thick.
- Use a heatsink or other effective heat-dissipation structure.
- Format the M.2 drive only after confirming it contains no data you need.
- Move seldom-played games to the M.2 drive or USB archive before the release download.
- Keep substantial free space and rely on the official launch download notice for GTA VI’s actual requirement.
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.
