If by “performance upgrade” you mean adding storage that can run PS5 games, check whether the M.2 NVMe SSD meets Sony’s requirements and update your PS5 system software before installing it. This expansion adds capacity; it does not guarantee faster frame rates or identical loading performance. If you meant the latest system software update instead, use the separate update path below.
First, identify which upgrade you mean
Sony’s compatibility guidance covers adding an M.2 SSD to the PS5. It is a storage expansion, not a universal performance upgrade announced for every console. An installed compatible M.2 SSD can store and launch PS5 and PS4 games, as well as media apps.
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If you meant updating the console itself, go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings. If Update Available appears, select Update System Software. See Sony’s PS5 system software update guidance for current instructions and recovery help.
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Before buying, compare the drive’s manufacturer datasheet with every item below. Check dimensions with the heatsink or other cooling structure attached; a bare drive’s measurements are not enough.
#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.
- Interface and type: M.2 NVMe, PCIe Gen4 x4, Key M. M.2 SATA drives are not supported.
- Capacity: 250 GB to 8 TB.
- Length: 30, 42, 60, 80, or 110 mm, commonly listed as 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110.
- Installed dimensions: Maximum width 25 mm and maximum thickness 11.25 mm, subject to Sony’s specified above- and below-board clearance limits.
- Sequential read speed: Sony recommends 5,500 MB/s or faster. This is a recommendation, not a guarantee of a particular game’s performance.
- Cooling: An effective cooling structure, such as a heatsink and heat-transfer sheet, is required. Avoid an oversized or stacked heatsink.
Sony says it cannot guarantee that every drive meeting the listed specifications will work. If the product listing does not clearly state the interface, dimensions with cooling installed, or other specifications, confirm them with the manufacturer before purchase. The full current criteria are in Sony’s M.2 SSD installation and compatibility guide.
Understand what the SSD can—and cannot—improve
An M.2 expansion drive lets you download, copy, store, and launch PS5 and PS4 games from it. However, matching or exceeding the recommended read speed does not mean every game will behave like it does on the console’s internal drive. Sony cautions: “Not all games are necessarily playable with the exact same performance provided by the PS5 console’s internal Ultra-High Speed SSD, even where the M.2 SSD device’s sequential read speed is faster than 5500MB/s.” Treat the speed figure as a compatibility recommendation, not a measured performance promise.
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).
Use external USB storage if you only need room
A compatible external SuperSpeed USB drive can help free internal space, but it works differently from an M.2 expansion:
| Option | Can play PS5 games directly? | Best use | Main constraint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal M.2 SSD expansion | Yes | Add capacity while keeping PS5 titles playable from the added storage | Must meet Sony’s interface, capacity, dimensions, speed recommendation, and cooling requirements |
| External SuperSpeed USB drive | No. Copy PS5 games back to console or M.2 storage before playing. | Store titles and free internal space; compatible PS4 games can be played directly | PS5 games stored on it cannot be played directly |
See Sony’s PS5 and PS4 storage options for details.
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.
Update the console before installing an M.2 drive
Sony instructs users to install the latest PS5 system software before fitting an M.2 SSD. On the console, open Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings. Select Update System Software if the console shows Update Available. The system software version can change, so use Sony’s live update instructions if the labels or process differ.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Install only with the instructions for your PS5 model
The installation procedure varies by model group. Check the model number and select the matching instructions in Sony’s M.2 SSD installation guide; do not assume one cover-removal sequence applies to every PS5.
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).
- Work on a well-lit table and use a #1 Phillips or cross-head screwdriver. A small flashlight is optional.
- Touch a grounded metal object first to discharge static.
- Do not power on or play the console with its cover off.
- On first use, the PS5 displays a formatting guide. Formatting erases all data on the M.2 SSD, so save anything you need from that drive beforehand.
If a game has problems when launched from M.2 storage, Sony recommends moving it to the console’s internal storage. You can move an M.2 drive to another PS5; to access its data on the new console, sign in to the same account on both consoles.
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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.
Quick compatibility decision
- Confirm the drive is M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4, Key M—not SATA.
- Confirm capacity is 250 GB to 8 TB and length is one of Sony’s supported sizes.
- Check width and thickness with cooling installed, including Sony’s clearance limits.
- Look for an effective heatsink or cooling structure and a recommended sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s.
- Update the PS5 system software, then follow the installation instructions for your console model.
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