The PlayStation 5 delivers next-gen gaming experiences, but its built-in 667GB of usable storage can fill up fast with modern game titles averaging 50–100GB each. Fortunately, Sony allows users to expand internal storage using an M.2 NVMe SSD. Upgrading your PS5 storage isn’t just possible—it’s straightforward if you follow the right steps. This guide walks you through everything a beginner needs to know: compatibility requirements, installation process, drive recommendations, and troubleshooting tips.
Why Upgrade Your PS5 Storage?
The PS5 comes with an 825GB SSD, but only about 667GB is available for games, apps, and updates after system files. With AAA titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III exceeding 200GB and remasters like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth pushing past 130GB, managing space becomes a constant chore. External hard drives work for storing PS4 games or archiving PS5 titles, but they don’t allow you to *play* PS5 games directly. That’s where the M.2 expansion slot shines.
By installing a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD into the PS5’s internal expansion bay, you can play PS5 games at full speed, reduce loading times further, and eliminate the need to constantly delete and redownload large titles. It's one of the most effective hardware upgrades you can make to enhance your console experience.
Compatible M.2 SSD Requirements for PS5
Not every M.2 SSD will work in the PS5. Sony has strict specifications to ensure thermal stability and performance consistency. Installing an incompatible drive may result in overheating, throttling, or failure to recognize the drive.
The following criteria must be met:
- Form Factor: M.2 2280 (22mm wide, 80mm long)
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD (Gen3 drives won’t work)
- Capacity: 250GB to 4TB (though 1TB–2TB is optimal for value and availability)
- Sequential Read Speed: At least 5,500 MB/s recommended
- Cooling: Heatsink (optional but highly recommended; integrated or add-on)
“While the PS5 technically supports drives without heatsinks, sustained gaming workloads generate significant heat. A proper cooling solution prevents thermal throttling.” — Mark Reynolds, Hardware Engineer & Console Specialist
Some users assume any fast SSD will do, but real-world testing shows that drives below 5,000 MB/s may cause instability or fail Sony’s firmware checks. Additionally, the physical size of the drive—including any heatsink—must not exceed 110mm in length, 25mm in width, and 11.25mm in height when installed.
Recommended M.2 SSDs for PS5 (2024)
To save time and avoid compatibility issues, here are several tested and verified M.2 SSDs that work seamlessly with the PS5.
| Drive Model | Read Speed | Heatsink Included? | Capacity Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seagate FireCuda 530 | 7,300 MB/s | Yes | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | Officially licensed by Sony; top-tier performance |
| Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink | 7,000 MB/s | Yes (specific version) | 1TB, 2TB | Reliable; widely available |
| WD Black SN850X | 7,300 MB/s | No (but sold with heatsink kit) | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | Add heatsink separately; excellent value |
| Crucial T500 | 7,400 MB/s | No | 1TB, 2TB | New Gen4 drive; requires third-party heatsink |
| Kioxia Exceria G3 | 6,100 MB/s | No | 1TB, 2TB | Budget-friendly; pair with slim heatsink |
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Installing an M.2 SSD in the PS5 is a simple process that takes under 15 minutes. You’ll need a small Phillips-head screwdriver (#00 size), the SSD with heatsink (if not built-in), and a clean workspace.
- Power Down the Console
Turn off the PS5 completely using the power menu. Unplug the power cable and all peripherals. - Remove the Side Panels
Lay the console horizontally. The side panels snap off easily. Grip the edge of the panel opposite the disc drive and pull gently outward. Repeat on the other side. Store them safely. - Locate the M.2 Expansion Slot
On the left side of the console (when viewed from the front), you’ll see a small rectangular cover secured by a single screw. Remove the screw using the Phillips screwdriver. - Insert the SSD
Lift the metal cover to expose the M.2 slot. Insert your SSD at a 30-degree angle into the connector. Gently press it down until it lies flat. Secure it with the screw you removed earlier. Ensure the drive doesn’t wobble. - Reassemble the Console
Replace the outer cover and secure it. Snap both side panels back into place. - Power On and Format the Drive
Reconnect the power cable and turn on the PS5. Navigate to Settings > Storage > M.2 SSD Storage > Format as Extended Storage. Confirm the action. The system will format the drive and make it ready for use.
Once formatted, your new SSD will appear as extended storage. You can choose to install new games directly to it or move existing games from the internal drive.
“Physical installation is easier than updating firmware. If you can swap a battery in a remote, you can install an M.2 SSD.” — Alex Tran, Tech Support Lead at GameFix Labs
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a compatible drive, some users encounter problems. Here’s how to resolve the most frequent issues:
- PS5 Doesn’t Recognize the Drive: Double-check that the SSD is fully seated in the slot. Reseat it if necessary. Also verify that the drive meets PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe specs. Some drives require a firmware update via PC before use.
- Overheating Warnings: If the system displays a temperature alert, the drive is likely overheating. Install or upgrade the heatsink. Use a low-profile aluminum heatsink if space is tight.
- Slow Load Times After Installation: This usually indicates the drive is throttling due to heat. Replace the current heatsink with a larger one or improve airflow around the console.
- Formatting Fails: Try formatting again. If it persists, test the drive on a PC to confirm functionality. Faulty units are rare but possible.
Mini Case Study: Jamie’s Storage Upgrade Journey
Jamie, a casual gamer from Portland, bought a PS5 at launch and quickly ran out of space after downloading Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Horizon Forbidden West, and God of War Ragnarök. She was frustrated by having to delete games every time she wanted to try something new. After reading online forums, she decided to upgrade her storage.
She purchased the WD Black SN850X 1TB with a heatsink kit for $120. Following a YouTube tutorial, she installed it in under 10 minutes. After formatting, she moved two large games from internal storage to the new SSD. Load times remained identical, and she could now keep six major titles installed simultaneously. “It felt like getting a whole new console,” she said. “I wish I’d done it months ago.”
Do’s and Don’ts of PS5 M.2 SSD Upgrades
| Action | Recommendation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Use a heatsink | ✅ Do | Prevents thermal throttling and extends drive life |
| Install a Gen3 SSD | ❌ Don’t | Not supported for PS5 game playback |
| Format the drive via PS5 settings | ✅ Do | Required for system recognition |
| Overtighten the SSD screw | ❌ Don’t | Risk of damaging the motherboard |
| Buy from reputable retailers | ✅ Do | Avoid counterfeit or used drives |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any M.2 SSD in the PS5?
No. Only PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 2280 SSDs with a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s are supported. Drives that don’t meet these specs won’t work for playing PS5 games.
Does the SSD need a heatsink?
Sony recommends a heatsink, though it’s not strictly mandatory. However, drives without adequate cooling often trigger overheating warnings during extended gameplay. An integrated or aftermarket heatsink is strongly advised.
Can I remove the SSD later?
Yes. The drive can be safely removed at any time. Just power off the console, open the panel, unscrew the drive, and slide it out. All data remains intact, but you’ll need to reformat it if reused in another PS5.
Checklist: Before You Install
- ✅ Confirm your SSD meets PS5 M.2 requirements (Gen4 NVMe, 5,500+ MB/s)
- ✅ Purchase a model with a heatsink or plan to add one
- ✅ Back up important game saves (PlayStation Plus or external drive)
- ✅ Gather a #00 Phillips screwdriver
- ✅ Power down and unplug the PS5
- ✅ Work on a clean, static-free surface
- ✅ Reassemble carefully and format via Settings
Conclusion: Unlock Your PS5’s Full Potential
Upgrading your PS5 storage with an M.2 SSD is more than a convenience—it’s a way to future-proof your gaming setup. With terabytes of high-speed storage, you can stop worrying about deleting games and start enjoying seamless access to your entire library. The process is safe, reversible, and entirely within reach for beginners who follow clear instructions.
Don’t let limited storage hold you back from the full PS5 experience. Choose a compatible drive, follow the installation steps, and enjoy faster load times, more installed games, and smoother gameplay. Once you’ve made the upgrade, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.
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