Compatible SSDs

Every PlayStation 5 model features an internal M.2 SSD expansion slot for expanding the console’s base storage. A bit of tinkering inside the console is required when using the best gaming SSDs, but it’s the best way to increase the PS5’s storage capacity. While many of the top external drives, including speedy external SSDs, are great for storing PS5 games and data, they can’t run PS5 games, making an internal SSD the preferred upgrading PS5 storage method.

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Default Storage

The amount of default storage varies across PlayStation 5 models. The original PS5 came with 825GB and was eventually replaced by the PlayStation 5 Slim, which offers 1TB of SSD storage. Recently, Sony downgraded the PS5 Digital Edition’s (Slim) storage capacity, dropping to 825GB. The highest-capacity PS5 variant is the PlayStation 5 Pro, offering 2TB of storage. Just note that about 150GB of the default storage will be taken up by system OS, updates, and firmware on each console.

Now, when adding storage to the PS5, you won’t be replacing the default SSD inside the PS5, as you would with many of the best handheld gaming PCs. Instead, there is an additional slot for compatible SSDs, or you can slot in a compatible external USB drive. Even if the default storage sounds like a lot of space, many modern AAA titles take up 100GB or more, meaning several of the best PS5 games will fill up that base amount fast. If you don’t want to constantly install and uninstall titles, an internal SSD is a huge boon.

Compatible SSDs

The great part about the PlayStation 5’s M.2 expansion slot is that it fits any size M.2 drive. However, our tech experts suggest you stick with M.2 2280 drives, as they offer the best price-to-performance ratio. Beyond that, the drive must support PCIe 4.0/Gen 4 or better and deliver speeds over 5,500 MB/s. A heatsink under 11.25mm is another necessity, as these drives run hot, which can lead to throttling and overheating.

While you’re welcome to seek out your own SDDs following the guidelines above, IGN’s gaming hardware expert, Jackie Thomas, has a list of the best PS5 and PS5 Pro SSDs. Check them out:

Installing an SSD

The PlayStation 5 must be opened up to add a compatible SSD. Luckily, installing an M.2 SSD on the PS5 is fairly straightforward, and the only tool required is a #1 Phillips head screwdriver. All you need to do is remove the cover, locate the drive slot, remove its cover, and adjust the spacer to fit the drive you’re installing. From there, the drive will need to be formatted. All other data on the drive will be removed during this process. If you're transferring the drive from another PlayStation 5, it won’t require reformatting.

For further insight into installing a PlayStation 5 SSD, the helpful video below goes over the entire process in detail:

Up Next: Compatible External USB Drives