Sony currently runs a beta program that gives players early access to new features for the PS5. The latest of these is the ability to install an internal M.2 SSD into the console. As this is a beta feature right now you'll need to confirm that you can access the required software update before purchasing an SSD.
In the future, this update will come to all players but it may change before the official software release. These selections are based on Sony's current guidelines. If you are unsure about compatibility or installation please contact Sony or your hard drive manufacturer directly.
What Is An M.2 SSD And Why Do I Need One?
SSD stands for solid-state drive. It is a type of internal hard drive that is faster but also more expensive than a traditional hard drive. The M.2 refers to the size and shape of the drive, which goes up to 8TB in size. An M.2 SSD is usually around 22 x 80mm but commonly available M.2 SSDs can be as short as 30mm and as long as 110mm.
SSDs offer extra storage that is quickly accessible, meaning less lag in your game when the data is accessed. You will also be able to freely move information between the console's in-built drive, any connected external SSD, and the M.2 SSD.
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Best PS5 SSD Internal Hard Drive Upgrade
You will need to purchase an M.2 SSD if you want to upgrade the storage on your PS5 with this new update. We recommend waiting for manufacturers to officially confirm their drive's compatibility but for those who cannot wait here are a selection of hard drives that meet Sony's 'on paper' specifications.
All of these SSDs are available in several different sizes and all prices are approximate.
| Features | Sony's Spec | SN850 | Firecuda 530 | 980 PRO | Rocket 4 Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | N/A | Western Digital | Seagate | Samsung | Sabrent |
| Capacity | 250GB – 4TB | 500GB | 1TB | 2TB | 4TB |
| Cooling | Heatsink Required | Not Included | Not Included | Not Included | Not Included |
| Sequential Read Speed | Min 5,500MB/s | 7000 MB/s | 7300 MB/s | 7000 MB/s | 7200 MB/s |
| Sequential Write Speed | Not Specified | 4100 MB/s | 6000 MB/s | 5000 MB/s | 6900 MB/s |
| Form Factor (Size) | 2230 2242 2260 2280 22110 | 2280 | 2280 | 2280 | 2280 |
| Price | N/A | £120 / $170 approx | £180 / $250 approx | £380 / $530 approx | £825 / $1150 approx |
Notes
- The drive interface should be NVMe PCIe 4.0, also known as Gen 4
- Form Factor refers to the size of the drive: 22 is the width and the second number is the length, 25mm width is not supported.
- All SSDs should be Socket 3 (Key M)
- Single-sided and double-sided M.2 SSDs are both supported but M.2 SATA SSDs are not supported.
- The height of the SSD including the heatsink cannot exceed 11.25mm in total.
- The size below the circuit board must be less than 2.45mm while above the circuit board must be less than 8mm.
- All SSDs will require a heatsink that fits the size limitations above.
Related:Seagate Reveals Prices And Sizes Of Its Upcoming PS5-Ready SSDs
How To Install Games And Apps On Your PS5 Internal SSD
Once your drive is formatted you can install games and other apps onto it simply by making sure it is set as your default storage location. To do this go to Settings > Storage > Installation Location and select your preferred drive. If you want to check your remaining storage space you can do this by selecting Settings > Storage > M.2 SSD Storage.
To move anything already installed on your console you'll need to go to Home > Game Library. Here you can highlight any games or apps you wish to move then press the options button. You should see an option for Move Games and Apps.
Note: If you have an external drive as well there should be a tab labeled Items You Can Move To M.2 SSD Storage.
Click each checkbox, and then select the move option.
Now you're ready to install all those game updates once more!
Note: SIE "cannot guarantee that all M.2 SSD devices meeting the described specifications will work with your console and assumes no responsibility for the selection, performance or use of third-party products." We recommend checking with the drive manufacturer regarding compatibility.
Next: PS5 System Beta Shows Both Versions Of Games With Next-Gen Upgrades
