Top PS5 SSDs for 2025: Fast M.2 Drives

For several console generations, gamers were limited by the built-in storage of their consoles. The PS5, however, offers a welcome change with its internal M.2 PCIe slot, allowing for easy expansion with off-the-shelf SSDs. This is a significant improvement, especially considering the PS5's relatively small 825GB of internal storage. Now, you can add high-performance PC SSDs, like the top-rated Corsair MP600 Pro LPX, to dramatically increase your game library with load times nearly as fast as the console's internal drive.

TL;DR - Best PS5 SSDs:

Our Top Pick: Corsair MP600 Pro LPX
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Crucial T500
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Samsung 990 Evo Plus
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WD_Black P40
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There are some important considerations. You'll need a PCIe 4.0 (or better) M.2 SSD. While the physical size of the drive isn't strictly limited, an M.2 2280 drive is recommended for compatibility. A built-in heatsink is also highly recommended due to the heat generated by PCIe 4.0 SSDs and the PS5's limited airflow. The heatsink shouldn't exceed 11.25mm in height. You can choose an SSD with a pre-installed heatsink or purchase one separately.

Capacity is a matter of personal preference. A 1TB drive is a popular choice, effectively doubling your storage, while larger 4TB drives offer significantly more space but at a higher cost.

For Xbox owners, see our best SSDs for Xbox Series X roundup.
Contributions by Danielle Abraham and Callum Bains

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PS5 SSD Basics

Many SSDs are compatible with the PS5's M.2 slot. Due to increased competition, high-speed, affordable drives are readily available for under $100. However, prices increase significantly with higher storage capacities; larger drives (like upcoming 8TB options) can cost well over $500.

Ensure your NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD has maximum dimensions of 110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm (including heatsink). The PS5's limited space necessitates a heatsink to prevent overheating and performance throttling. Most drives include a heatsink, but if purchasing separately, ensure it's under 8mm above the SSD or 2.45mm below.

You need at least a PCIe 4.0 SSD with sequential read speeds of 5500MB/s or faster. Most SSDs advertise these speeds. The PS5 will run its own speed test during installation. Drives significantly faster than 6500MB/s offer minimal additional benefit for the PS5.

Consider the warranty and TBW (Terabytes Written) rating, indicating the drive's endurance. While most gamers won't reach the TBW limit, it's a factor for those who might reuse the drive in other systems. Also note the NAND memory type (QLC, TLC, MLC), impacting endurance and price. The drives listed here use TLC NAND.

With the PS5's limited 825GB (or 1TB for the Slim) of storage, expansion is often necessary. Games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur’s Gate 3 easily exceed 100GB. The M.2 slot allows for 250GB–8TB expansion. 1TB is a popular balance of capacity and price, but larger options cater to extensive libraries.

While an internal SSD is preferred, external hard drives (though not for PS5 games) can be used for PS4 games and storing game files to avoid redownloading.

For installation assistance, see our guide on upgrading PS5 storage.

1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

Best PS5 SSD

With read speeds up to 7,100MB/s and a pre-installed heatsink, this SSD offers fast loading times. See it at Amazon

The Corsair MP600 Pro LPX remains a top choice, offering excellent performance at a competitive price. While newer SSDs may be faster, the PS5 doesn't fully utilize those higher speeds. Its 700TBW rating is sufficient for most gamers.

2. Crucial T500

Best Budget PS5 SSD

A 1TB drive with high speeds and a heatsink at a budget-friendly price. See it at Amazon

The Crucial T500 provides excellent value, offering high performance and a heatsink at a low price. Its Micron TLC 3D NAND flash memory ensures reliable speed.

3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus

Best PS5 SSD Without Heatsink

Excellent performance at a competitive price. See it at Best Buy

The Samsung 990 Evo Plus delivers strong performance without a premium price. While lacking a heatsink (requiring a separate purchase), its speed is more than sufficient for PS5 gaming.

4. WD_Black P40

Best External PS5 SSD

1TB of storage with 2,000MB/s read speeds via USB 3.2 Gen 2x2. See it at Amazon

The WD_Black P40 serves as a fast external SSD option, though it cannot run PS5 games directly. It's useful for storing PS4 games and transferring data.

PS5 SSD FAQ

Is an SSD worth it for PS5?

An SSD is highly recommended if you play multiple games or live-service titles that grow in size over time. The PS5's internal storage quickly fills up.

What speed SSD should I get for PS5?

At least 5,500MB/s read speed is required. Most PCIe 4.0 drives exceed this; anything above 6,500MB/s offers minimal additional benefit.

When is the best time to buy a PS5 SSD?

Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday typically offer significant discounts.

Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it for the PS5?

No. The PS5 doesn't support PCIe 5.0 speeds; a PCIe 4.0 SSD is sufficient and more cost-effective.