To add internal storage to a PS5, install a compatible PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD with effective heat dissipation, then format it when prompted. Check the full drive-and-cooling assembly against Sony’s size limits before buying, and follow the installation procedure for your console’s model group: CFI-1000 or CFI-2000/7000.
Check that the M.2 SSD fits and is compatible
Sony’s current US guidance specifies an M.2 NVMe SSD with a PCIe Gen4 x4 interface and M Key. M.2 SATA drives are not supported. The drive must also fit these limits, including its cooling structure:
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- Capacity: 250 GB to 8 TB.
- Supported form factors: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 or 22110.
- Maximum width: 25 mm.
- Maximum thickness: 11.25 mm total, including up to 8.0 mm above the circuit board and 2.45 mm below it.
- Read speed: Sony recommends sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s.
These specifications come from Sony Interactive Entertainment’s PS5 M.2 installation guidance. The read-speed figure is a recommendation, not a promise that a drive will match the PS5’s built-in SSD.
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Check the complete cooling assembly
The SSD needs an effective heat-dissipation structure, such as a heatsink and heat-transfer sheet. Some drives include cooling; others need a compatible solution bought separately. Measure the complete assembly, not just the bare SSD. Sony says single-sided cooling structures are easier to fit, though both single- and double-sided SSDs are supported. If the drive already has a built-in heatsink, do not stack another on top: Sony warns that doing so 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.
Check HMB support and understand the limits
Sony consoles do not support Host Memory Buffer (HMB), so an HMB-capable SSD may run slower than expected. Sony also cautions that meeting its published specifications does not guarantee a third-party drive will work, or that every game will perform exactly as it does on the internal SSD. Sony does not endorse a specific retail drive in its guidance.
Prepare the console and work area
Use a well-lit work area and a flat, protected surface. Sony lists a #1 Phillips or cross-head screwdriver; a small flashlight is optional. Before you start, turn off and unplug the console, let it cool, and touch a metal-grounded object to discharge static. Never power on or play on the console with a cover removed.
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).
Do not touch the SSD terminals or the console’s expansion connector. Use a correctly sized screwdriver, and keep the small screw and spacer from falling into the console. If a small part drops inside, do not turn the console on; consult PlayStation support. First-use formatting erases all data on the SSD, so do not proceed if it contains anything you need.
Install the SSD in the matching PS5 model
First identify your console’s model group. Sony provides separate outer-cover instructions for CFI-1000 and CFI-2000/7000 consoles; the cover-removal steps differ. Use the diagrams for your exact group in Sony’s installation guide rather than assuming the shells open the same way.
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.
- Remove the outer cover for your model. With the console off, unplugged and cool, place it on the prepared surface and follow the matching Sony diagram.
- Open the expansion slot. Remove the slot-cover screw and the cover.
- Set the spacer for the SSD length. Remove the retaining screw and spacer, then place the spacer in the hole that matches the SSD’s form factor.
- Insert the SSD diagonally. Hold it by its edge, align the notch with the expansion connector, and insert it at an upward angle until fully seated. Do not force it or touch its contacts.
- Fasten the drive. Tilt the SSD down onto the spacer and secure it with the retaining screw. The cooling structure must not block the screw or keep the drive from sitting flat.
- Close the console. Refit and fasten the expansion-slot cover, then reinstall the outer cover and any feet or base components required for the model.
- Start and format. Reconnect power and turn on the console. Follow the on-screen formatting guide when prompted; formatting erases the SSD.
For CFI-1000 consoles, Sony specifically says the SSD circuit board should rest flush on the spacer. Incomplete insertion can damage the terminal or console. If the slot cover will not close properly, the cooling structure may exceed the size limits. Sony’s CFI-20XX safety guide also warns that covers must be installed correctly; an incorrectly fitted cover can contribute to overheating.
Use the new storage and manage games
Once formatted, M.2 storage can hold, download, copy and launch PS5 and PS4 games and media apps. To choose where new content installs, open Settings > Storage > Installation Location. To move installed games or apps, use Game Library. Sony’s 2021 announcement of the M.2 expansion feature explains the distinction between M.2 and USB extended storage: PS5 games can be played directly from M.2 storage, while PS5 games on USB extended storage must be copied back to console or M.2 storage before play.
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).
Moving the SSD or sending the console for repair
Sony says an M.2 SSD does not need to be formatted again when moved between two PS5 consoles. Sign in to the same account on the other console to access the stored games. Remove the M.2 SSD before sending the console for repair.
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Troubleshoot games with problems from M.2 storage
If a game has problems when run from M.2 storage, Sony’s first suggested remedy is to move it to the console’s internal storage. The drive’s published specifications do not guarantee identical performance in every game.
Quick Recap
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.
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