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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →If you want to install and play more large PS5 games without repeatedly deleting others, a compatible internal M.2 NVMe SSD is the practical expansion option. A USB extended-storage drive can keep PS5 games for later, but you must copy them back to console or M.2 storage before playing. Compatibility is not guaranteed for every third-party SSD, even if its listed specifications appear to match Sony’s requirements.
Choose M.2 storage if you want to play PS5 games from the added space
Sony supports two different ways to expand PS5 storage, but they serve different purposes. An M.2 SSD installed in the console can hold, download, update, and launch PS5 and PS4 games. USB extended storage can hold PS5 games, but those games must be copied to console storage or an M.2 SSD before they can be played. PS4 games can be played directly from USB extended storage.
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| What you need to do | M.2 SSD | USB extended storage |
|---|---|---|
| Play PS5 games directly from the added storage | Yes | No; copy the game to console or M.2 storage first |
| Play PS4 games directly from the added storage | Yes | Yes |
| Download or update games on the added storage | Yes | PS5 games can be stored, but must be copied back before play |
| Hardware required | Compatible PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD with effective cooling that fits the expansion bay | Compatible USB extended-storage drive |
Sony’s guidance on managing storage explains the distinction between console, M.2, and USB storage in its PS5 storage management guide. For USB requirements and use, see Sony’s USB extended storage guide.
Check the SSD interface, capacity, and physical fit
Sony’s M.2 expansion requirements call for a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD with an M key. M.2 SATA drives are not supported. The drive must have a capacity from 250 GB to 8 TB and one of these supported board sizes: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110.
#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.
Sony recommends a sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster. This is a recommendation, not a guarantee that a drive will work or perform like the PS5’s built-in SSD. Sony also cautions that some games may not perform exactly as they do on the internal drive.
Check the complete assembly—not just the SSD board—against Sony’s expansion-slot limits. The drive and its cooling structure must be no wider than 25 mm, use a supported length of 30, 42, 60, 80, or 110 mm, and be no thicker than 11.25 mm overall. The maximum thickness is 8.0 mm above the board and 2.45 mm below it. Effective heat dissipation is required.
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).
- Single-sided and double-sided M.2 drives are supported, but cooling structures differ; Sony notes that single-sided cooling structures are easier to fit.
- If the drive lacks built-in cooling, you may need a compatible heatsink or heat-transfer sheet. Include it when checking the overall dimensions.
- Do not add a second heatsink to a drive that already has one built in.
Sony’s current M.2 SSD installation guide lists the requirements and fit measurements. Check the SSD manufacturer’s current specification sheet for interface, capacity, board dimensions, sequential read speed, and the combined drive-and-heatsink size before buying.
Understand the compatibility caveat
Matching the published requirements does not make a third-party drive guaranteed or officially certified. Sony Interactive Entertainment states in its PlayStation M.2 SSD support guide: “SIE cannot guarantee that all M.2 SSD devices meeting the described specifications will work with your console and assumes no responsibility for the selection, performance or use of third-party products.”
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.
For a first-pass search, use “PS5 compatible PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD with heatsink,” then verify the specific model’s current specifications and dimensions. Treat a speed figure as a manufacturer specification, not proof of compatibility or identical game performance.
Install the drive using instructions for your PS5 model
Update the console system software before installation. Sony’s installation procedure differs by model group, so use the guide for your exact console model rather than relying on a single set of cover-removal steps. The entire M.2 SSD must be formatted before use; formatting erases its contents.
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).
- Confirm the SSD and cooling assembly meet the interface, capacity, speed recommendation, and fit requirements.
- Install the latest PS5 system software.
- Follow Sony’s M.2 installation instructions for your console model.
- When prompted, format the entire M.2 SSD and allow the console to complete the process.
After setup, you can set the M.2 SSD as an installation location and move games between console storage, M.2 storage, and USB extended storage. If a game has problems when played from M.2 storage, Sony advises moving it to the console’s internal storage. Remove the M.2 SSD before sending the console for repair.
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Check warranty terms in your region
Sony says warranty coverage generally should not be affected when a compliant drive is installed correctly. Damage caused by failing to follow the requirements or installation instructions may not be covered. Warranty conditions vary by region, so consult the terms that apply where you live.
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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