What a PS5 SSD needs

  • PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 drive — Sony recommends 5,500 MB/s read speed or faster.
  • Size: M.2 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 or 22110 — 2280 is the common one.
  • A heatsink (built-in or added) — Sony recommends cooling, and the slot fits drives up to 11.25 mm tall including the heatsink.
  • Works on every PS5 model: original, Slim and Pro.

Prices on SSDs change weekly. 2TB models in this guide regularly dip below $150 — check the current price before you buy.

Our picks

Best for: Best overall

WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB with heatsink

One of the most popular PS5 drives, with a slim heatsink designed to fit the console's slot and top-tier Gen4 speeds.

  • Very fast
  • Heatsink fits PS5
  • Proven reliability
  • Heatsink version costs a little more
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Best for: Best value

Crucial T500 2TB with heatsink

Gen4 speeds well above Sony's minimum at a price that's often lower than the big names.

  • Great price per TB
  • Fast
  • Heatsink included
  • Fewer color/style options
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Best for: Made for PS5

Nextorage NEM-PA 2TB

Designed specifically for the PS5, with a low-profile heatsink that drops straight into the slot.

  • PS5-focused design
  • Easy install
  • Good speeds
  • Less known brand outside Japan
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Best for: Low-profile cooling

Corsair MP600 PRO LPX 2TB

A slim aluminium heatsink built for consoles, with fast Gen4 performance and a solid warranty.

  • Low-profile heatsink
  • Fast
  • Good warranty
  • Often priced slightly higher
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Installing it

You only need a small Phillips screwdriver — a precision screwdriver set makes it easier. If you lose the tiny screw, grab a pack of M.2 SSD mounting screws. Power off fully, remove the cover, insert the drive, screw it down and the PS5 will format it on boot.

FAQ

Does the PS5 SSD need a heatsink?

Sony recommends one. Many drives include it; otherwise add a slim heatsink under 11.25 mm total height.

Is 2TB enough?

For most players, yes — it holds roughly 15–25 large games on top of the built-in storage.

Can I play PS5 games from the SSD?

Yes. Games run directly from a compatible M.2 SSD with no loss in performance.