The best SSD for PS5 - 2025

Andrew C.
6 days ago
4 min read

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One of the most common frustrations for PlayStation 5 users is the limited internal storage, especially as modern games take up more and more space. Thankfully, the PS5 supports M.2 SSD expansion, which allows gamers to add additional storage while maintaining the same ultra-fast performance as the console’s built-in SSD. With the right SSD upgrade, you can download and play more titles without worrying about constantly deleting older games.

However, not every SSD on the market is compatible with the PS5. Sony has set strict requirements to ensure the best performance. The SSD must:

Include a cooling solution, such as a heatsink, for proper heat dissipation.
Have a capacity between 250 GB and 4 TB.
Offer a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster.
Fit within the size and dimension guidelines provided by Sony (including the heatsink).

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What are the requirements and specifications?

Check the full specifications for the M.2 SSD and heatsinks here.

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When it comes to installation, Sony recommends setting up in a well-lit room with a stable table, using a #1 Phillips or cross-head screwdriver, and optionally a small flashlight for better visibility. Before handling the SSD or opening your PS5, it’s also important to discharge static electricity by touching a grounded metal object. This step prevents damage to both the SSD and the console.

Because not all M.2 SSDs meet these requirements, we’ve selected some of the best SSDs for PS5 in 2025 that are fully compatible with Sony’s specifications. For optimal performance and peace of mind, I recommend choosing a model that comes with the manufacturer’s heatsink already pre-installed. This ensures better heat management and also helps protect your warranty.

1. Western Digital SN850, SN850X

Speed up to: 7,000 MB/s, 7,300 MB/s

The WD Black SN850 and SN850X are among the best SSDs for the PS5 and an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable internal storage upgrade. Both drives meet all of Sony’s requirements for compatibility, offering blazing-fast Gen 4 performance that keeps up with the PS5’s ultra-speed internal SSD. In fact, Mark Cerny, the lead system architect of the PlayStation 5, publicly mentioned on Twitter that he personally chose the WD SN850 for his own consoles. That speaks volumes about its reliability.

The WD SN850 is available with a pre-installed heatsink, making it ready to install straight out of the box. For storage capacity, it comes in 500 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB options. There’s also a version sold without the heatsink (in that case you’ll need to install a compatible heatsink yourself to ensure proper cooling and long-term performance).

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2. Seagate FireCuda 530

Speed up to: 7,300 MB/s

The Seagate FireCuda 530 Gen 4 was one of the first SSDs officially tested and confirmed to meet PS5 requirements, and it remains a top choice today. This drive delivers outstanding performance, with read speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s, well above Sony’s minimum standard. It is available in a wide range of capacities: 500 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB, 3 TB, and 4 TB.

The FireCuda 530 can be purchased either with a pre-installed heatsink or without one. If you choose the version without a heatsink, you’ll need to add a compatible cooling solution to ensure proper heat dissipation and long-term stability.

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3. Samsung 980 PRO

Speed up to: 7,000 MB/s

The Samsung 980 Pro is a premium option that delivers exceptional performance, making it one of the most popular choices for PS5 owners looking to expand their storage. Samsung now offers the 980 Pro with a built-in heatsink, designed to keep temperatures under control and maintain consistent speed during heavy gaming sessions. This version is available in 1 TB and 2 TB capacities.

For those who prefer flexibility, the 980 Pro is also sold without a heatsink in several sizes: 250 GB, 500 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB. If you go for one of these versions, be sure to install a compatible heatsink to ensure proper cooling and long-term reliability.

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4. Kingston Fury Renegade

Speed up to: 7,300 MB/s

The Kingston Fury Renegade is one of the fastest and most reliable SSDs you can install in your PS5, making it an excellent Gen4 option from a brand recognized worldwide for its expertise in memory and storage solutions. With read speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s and write speeds of up to 7,000 MB/s, this drive goes well beyond Sony’s minimum requirements, guaranteeing lightning-fast load times and seamless gameplay.

The Fury Renegade is available in a wide range of capacities, from 500 GB to 4 TB, making it suitable whether you just need some extra space for your favorite titles or want to create a massive digital library without constantly deleting older games. Its endurance rating and reliability also make it a strong long-term investment for heavy gamers.

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6. Crucial P5 Plus

Speed up to: 6,600 MB/s

The Crucial P5 Plus SSD is another strong contender for PS5 storage expansion. With sequential read speeds of up to 6,600 MB/s, it delivers excellent performance and solid data protection. While it may not be the absolute fastest option on the list, it is a reliable choice from Crucial, a trusted brand known for its expertise in memory and storage solutions. Built on the latest Gen4 NVMe technology, the P5 Plus provides the speed and stability needed to match the PS5’s internal SSD performance.

The P5 Plus is available in capacities ranging from 500 GB to 2 TB.

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