Top PS5 SSDs of 2025: Fast M.2 Options for Your Console

Over the past few console generations, gamers were often limited by the fixed storage capacity of their consoles. However, Sony's PS5 breaks from tradition by incorporating an internal M.2 PCIe slot, allowing users to enhance their storage with off-the-shelf SSDs. This is a significant shift, especially considering Sony's history with the PS Vita and PSP, where memory cards were notoriously expensive. With only 825GB of storage initially provided, the ability to install high-performance PC SSDs like the Corsair MP600 Pro LPX, our top recommendation, offers a cost-effective solution to load games nearly as fast as the console's built-in drive.

TL;DR - These Are the Best SSDs for PS5:

Our Top Pick### Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

9See it at Amazon### CrucialT500

0See it at Amazon### Samsung990 Evo Plus

0See it at Best Buy### WD_Black P40

1See it at AmazonThere are specific requirements for PS5 SSDs. You need a PCIe 4.0 or Gen 4 drive, capable of speeds up to 7,500MB/s, which significantly surpasses the 3,500MB/s of Gen 3 M.2 SSDs. An M.2 drive is essential, with the PS5 accommodating all standard M.2 sizes, though the M.2 2280 is most common.

We recommend selecting an SSD with a built-in heatsink to manage the heat generated by PCIe 4.0 SSDs, which can be considerable. The heatsink must not exceed 11.25mm in height, ensuring compatibility with the PS5's compact SSD slot. You can either choose an SSD with an integrated heatsink or purchase one separately.

For capacity, consider your storage needs. A 1TB drive is often sufficient, effectively doubling your storage and allowing for a substantial game library, including games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Larger options, such as 4TB drives, are available for those with extensive collections, albeit at a higher cost.

If you're an Xbox owner, see our roundup of the best SSDs for Xbox Series XContributions by Danielle Abraham and Callum Bains*

A wide range of SSDs are compatible with the PS5’s M.2 slot, thanks to increased competition in recent years. High-speed, cost-effective options under $100 are readily available. Larger capacities, such as the upcoming 8TB SSD from Western Digital, come at a higher price, often exceeding $500.

Ensure you select an NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD that fits within the dimensions of 110mm x 25mm x 11.25mm, including the heatsink. The PS5's compact space necessitates a heatsink to prevent overheating and performance throttling. Most drives offer an optional heatsink, but ensure any standalone heatsink fits within the specified height requirements.

You'll need an SSD with at least 5,500MB/s sequential read speeds. Most PCIe 4.0 SSDs meet this criterion, with speeds typically ranging from 7,000–7,500MB/s. The PS5 conducts its own speed test during installation, with a peak around 6,500MB/s, making significantly faster drives unnecessary for this console.

Consider the warranty and endurance rating of the drive. Most SSDs come with a five-year warranty and a TBW (Terabytes Written) rating, indicating the amount of data the drive can handle over its lifespan.

Evaluate the type of NAND memory: QLC, TLC, and MLC, with TLC being the most common in gaming SSDs, offering a balance between endurance and cost. The PS5's limited initial storage, especially with games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur’s Gate 3 taking up over 100GB each, makes additional storage highly beneficial. The M.2 expansion slot supports drives from 250GB to 8TB, with 1TB being a popular choice for its balance of capacity and price.

While an internal SSD is ideal, you can also use an external hard drive for PS4 games and to store PS5 games for quick reinstallation, although PS5 games cannot be played directly from external storage.

For installation help, refer to our guide on upgrading your PS5 storage.

1. Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

Best PS5 SSD

Our Top Pick### Corsair MP600 Pro LPX

9With read speeds up to 7,100MB/s and a preinstalled heatsink, this SSD ensures rapid data loading. It's an excellent value option for PS5 users, delivering performance close to the console's built-in SSD while being affordable at around $80 for a 1TB drive.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity1TBSequential read speed7,100MB/sSequential write speed5,800MB/sNAND type3D TLCTBW700TBPROSExcellent valueHigh read speedCONSNot the fastest drive aroundThe Corsair MP600 Pro LPX was one of the first SSDs marketed specifically for the PS5 and remains a top choice. While it doesn't compete with newer PCIe 5.0 SSDs, the PS5's speed limitations make it an ideal choice for gamers looking for performance without breaking the bank.

2. Crucial T500

Best Budget PS5 SSD

### CrucialT500

0Offering 1TB of storage with a heatsink, the Crucial T500 is a cost-effective solution that performs admirably with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s and write speeds up to 6,800MB/s. It's an affordable choice that doesn't compromise on speed.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity1TBSequential read speed7,300MB/sSequential write speed6,800MB/sNAND typeMicron TLCTBW600TBPROSTLC 3D NAND flash memoryImpressive speedsCONSNo 4TB optionThe Crucial T500 provides excellent value with its high performance and included heatsink, making it an attractive option for PS5 owners on a budget.

3. Samsung 990 Evo Plus

Best PS5 SSD Without Heatsink

### Samsung990 Evo Plus

0The Samsung 990 Evo Plus offers impressive performance with read speeds up to 7,250MB/s, though it does not come with a heatsink. It's a solid choice for those willing to add their own heatsink to save costs.

See it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsCapacity1TB – 4TBSequential read speed7,250MB/sSequential write speed6,300MB/sNAND typeSamsung V-NAND TLCTBW600TB (1TB), 1200TB (2TB), 2400TB (4TB)PROSExcellent performance for the moneyExtremely fast load timesCONSDoesn't come with a heatsinkThe Samsung 990 Evo Plus delivers high performance at a competitive price, though you'll need to purchase a heatsink separately for PS5 use.

4. WD_Black P40

Best External PS5 SSD

### WD_Black P40

1The WD_Black P40 is an external SSD offering 1TB of storage with read and write speeds up to 2,000MB/s. While it can't run PS5 games directly, it's perfect for storing PS5 game data and playing PS4 titles.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCapacity1TBSequential read speed2,000MB/sSequential write speed2,000MB/sNAND typeWD TLCTBW600TBPROSFaster than traditional hard drive Multiplatform supportCONSCan't run PS5 gamesThe WD_Black P40 is a versatile external SSD that's faster than traditional hard drives, making it ideal for PS5 storage expansion and data transfer.

PS5 SSD FAQ

Is an SSD worth it for PS5?

Absolutely, the PS5's initial 825GB SSD leaves limited space for games, especially with system files taking up a significant portion. Upgrading with an SSD is essential for gamers who enjoy a variety of games or large live service titles.

What speed SSD should I get for PS5?

You should look for an SSD with a minimum read speed of 5,500MB/s. Most PCIe 4.0 drives meet this requirement, and speeds above 6,500MB/s are ideal for optimal performance.

When is the best time to buy a PS5 SSD?

SSD prices have become more competitive over time, but the best deals can be found during sales events like Amazon Prime Day in July, and Black Friday/Cyber Monday.

Are PCIe 5.0 SSDs worth it for the PS5?

No, PCIe 5.0 SSDs are not necessary for the PS5 as it supports only PCIe 4.0. The console cannot fully utilize the speeds of PCIe 5.0 drives, making PCIe 4.0 SSDs a more cost-effective choice.