2023 Best M.2 SSD for PS5
2023 Best M.2 SSD for PS5
The Best M.2 SSDs for the PlayStation 5: Boost Your Storage and Gaming Experience
If you’ve been patiently waiting for over two years to get your hands on Sony’s popular next-gen console, the PlayStation 5 (PS5), then you’d be glad to know that it’s finally becoming easier to find in stock. To enhance your gaming experience, you might want to consider adding an aftermarket M.2 SSD to increase your storage capacity. In this article, we will explore the best M.2 SSDs available for the PS5, catering to different storage needs and budgets.
Unlocking Extra Storage Space
Sony unlocked the PS5’s extra internal storage drive slot in 2021, allowing users to expand their console’s storage capacity. This was not an option when the PS5 was first launched in fall 2020. Now, gamers can easily install additional storage space by choosing the best M.2 SSD speed that meets their gaming requirements.
Finding the Perfect M.2 SSD for Your PS5
When it comes to choosing the right M.2 SSD for your PS5, finding a superfast drive with an integrated heatsink is essential. This feature helps prevent overheating and ensures optimal performance. If your chosen SSD doesn’t come with a built-in heatsink, you can always add one manually. Below, we have listed some of the best M.2 SSDs for the PS5, providing detailed insights into each option.
Samsung 990 Pro with Heatsink
- Price: $149 at Samsung, $149 at Amazon
The Samsung 990 Pro with Heatsink showcases cutting-edge advancements in exclusive NAND memory, controller, and software technology. This SSD is specially designed for PC and console gamers and creators who prioritize exceptional performance, power efficiency, and thermal management.
Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink M.2 SSD
- Price: $80 at Samsung, $80 at Amazon, $85 at Walmart
Samsung’s high-end M.2 drive, the 980 Pro, was a top choice for many PS5 modders. However, the original version did not include a built-in heatsink, which is required for smooth operation. While you can buy a separate heatsink and attach it, this adds extra steps to the process.
Seagate FireCuda 530 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 SSD
- Price: $380 at Amazon, $380 at Walmart, $380 at Best Buy
The Seagate FireCuda 530 is a highly capable M.2 SSD with a built-in heatsink, making it suitable for internal use in the PS5. It is available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB models, providing ample storage options for all gamers.
Corsair MP600 PRO LPX
- Price: $70 at Amazon, $72 at Walmart, $70 at Best Buy
Corsair’s PS5-compatible M.2 drive, the MP600 PRO LPX, comes with a built-in heatsink. The 2TB version was tested and found to perform excellently. There is also a 1TB version available for users with a smaller storage requirement.
PNY XLR8 CS3140 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD
- Price: $58 at Walmart, $71 at Amazon, $58 at B&H Photo-Video
The PNY XLR8 CS3140 is an affordable M.2 SSD option that does not include a built-in heatsink. However, PNY offers a separate PS5 SSD cover panel with a built-in heatsink for $20, making it easy to install the drive and prevent overheating.
Performance Comparison and Other Recommendations
After testing several drives, including the Seagate FireCuda 530, we observed that there is not a significant difference in performance among all the options listed. Writing to the M.2 drive is notably faster than writing back to the internal PS5 drive.
Besides the SSDs mentioned above, here are a few more options and accessories that should work well with the PS5, based on user feedback and specifications:
- WD Black SN850 Gen4 x4 NVMe PCIe M.2 SSD:
- Price: $109 at Walmart, $116 at Amazon
- This Western Digital drive is one of the most popular choices for the PS5. It includes a built-in heatsink, making it an easy and hassle-free upgrade for your console’s storage.
- Samsung 980 Pro 1TB PCIe NVMe Gen4 M.2:
- Price: $60 at Samsung, $60 at Amazon, $110 at Walmart
- The original version of the Samsung 980 Pro 1TB drive requires a separate heatsink. However, if you already have one and can attach it, this option provides a slightly less expensive solution and is readily available in the market.
- MHQJRH M.2 2280 SSD heatsink:
- Price: $9 at Amazon
- This popular heatsink is an excellent choice for PS5 owners who want to add their own heatsink. Users have reported that it fits perfectly in the PS5’s M.2 slot, especially when paired with the Samsung 980 SSD.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that you may have some questions regarding M.2 SSDs for the PS5. Here are answers to some of the most common queries:
How do I remove the PS5 cover?
Both the front and rear panels of the PS5 are removable. To remove the bottom cover and access the M.2 drive slot, Sony recommends positioning the console so that the PS logo is facing up and the power button is facing away from you. Grip the bottom left corner of the cover and pull slightly up and to the right. You can watch a video tutorial on PS5 cover removal for a visual guide.
Does my M.2 drive need a heatsink?
Yes, Sony requires an M.2 drive to have a heatsink to dissipate heat and prevent overheating. Some drives come with a built-in heatsink, while others require manual attachment using tape or adhesive.
What games can run from a PS5 M.2 drive?
An internal M.2 drive can store and run both PS5 games and older PS4/PS Plus games. In contrast, an external drive connected via USB-C can only store and play PS4/older games.
How are PS5 M.2 drives tested?
When testing M.2 SSD drives for PS5 compatibility, our primary concern is the data transfer speed. All compatible drives perform seamlessly when playing and loading games. The only time you are likely to notice the difference is during the transfer of full games to or from the drive.
For more information and updates on the latest gaming releases and accessories, keep reading ENBLE’s gaming coverage.
Source: CNET
