In the world of gaming, speed is everything. When it comes to enhancing the performance of your PlayStation 5, the internal storage is a critical component. An upgraded SSD can drastically improve load times and overall gaming experience. But with so many options, how do you choose the best one? Let’s dive into some top SSDs garnering attention in the gaming community.
Understanding the Need for an SSD in PS5
The PlayStation 5 comes with an 825GB SSD, but with modern games requiring upwards of 50GB each, this can fill up quickly. Expanding your storage with a high-speed SSD means you won’t be constantly deleting and reinstalling games. An SSD also ensures your games load faster, reducing those pesky waiting times.
Key Features to Consider for PS5 SSDs
Before diving into specific models, it’s crucial to understand what makes an SSD ideal for the PS5. The most important factors include:
With that in mind, here are some of the best SSDs for the PS5 in 2024.
1. Samsung 990 Pro
SAMSUNG 990 PRO
- MEET THE NEXT GEN: Consider this a cheat code. Our Samsung 990 PRO Gen4 SSD helps you reach near-max performance with lightning-fast speeds. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a tech guru, you’ll get power efficiency built for the final boss.
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth. With a more than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO, it’s here for heavy computing and speedier loading.
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S FLASH MEMORY BRAND: The speed you need for any occasion. With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s, you’ll reach near the max performance of PCIe 4.0 powering through for any use.
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB; Sync all your saves and reign supreme in gaming, video editing, data analysis, and more
- IT’S A POWER MOVE: Save the power for your performance; Get power efficiency all while experiencing up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO. It makes every move more effective with less consumption
One of the fastest SSDs available, the Samsung 990 Pro is a top-tier option for PS5 users. It boasts incredible read/write speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s and 6,900 MB/s, making it one of the fastest Gen 4 SSDs compatible with the console. This SSD comes in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB options, ideal for those needing extensive storage.
The Samsung 990 Pro also features a built-in heatsink, critical for maintaining optimal performance during long gaming sessions. Although slightly pricier than other models, it offers exceptional reliability, consistent performance, and a solid 5-year warranty. However, some users may find the price prohibitive, especially on a tight budget.
2. Seagate FireCuda 530
Seagate FireCuda 530
- Speed reigns—Seagate’s FireCuda 530 dominates the SSD lineup, delivering pure performance, absolute power, the most advanced components, and unrivaled endurance.
- Exhilarating performance up to 7300MB/s—harness the full power of PCIe Gen4 speeds to dominate next-generation games and apps.
- Our fastest FireCuda SSD ever built for the ultimate in sustained, pro-level gaming and accelerated content creation—with transfer speeds up to 2x faster than PCIe Gen3 M.2 NVMe SSDs and 12x faster than SATA SSDs
- Includes custom-built low-profile heatsink designed by EKWB and Seagate to help minimize thermal throttling and maintain peak performance for more prolonged periods
- Enjoy long-term peace of mind with the included five-year limited warranty and three years of Rescue Data Recovery Services.
The Seagate FireCuda 530 remains a trendy choice for gamers seeking the best overall performance. With read speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s, it pushes the limits of what is possible with the PS5. It is available in multiple capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB, ensuring an option for various storage needs.
A vital advantage of the FireCuda 530 is its durability. Its 4 TB model offers up to 5,100 TBW (terabytes written), which means it can handle extensive game installs and file transfers without deteriorating quickly. This SSD also comes with an integrated heatsink, and its robust design ensures excellent cooling during heavy use.
3. WD Black SN850X
WD BLACK
- TRANSFORM YOUR PC. Get top-tier performance and ridiculously short load times for your gaming PC or workstation with insane speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s (2)
- MORE ROOM MORE GAMES. Capacities up to 8TB (1) built with Western Digital TLC 3D NAND means you can download more games — and stop deleting your favorites.
- HEATSINK FOR THE WIN. All capacities have an optional heatsink version to help maintain peak performance through your most intense gaming sessions.
- DO MORE WITH THE DASHBOARD. The downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only) monitors your drive’s health, lets you customize your RGB lighting (heatsink versions only), and automatically detects games to turn on Game Mode 2.0.
- FUTURE-FORWARD FEATURES. The WD_BLACK SN850X boasts a robust suite of features, including Predictive Loading, Overhead Balancing, and Adaptive Thermal Management (ATM).
Another strong contender is the WD Black SN850X. This SSD provides read speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s and comes equipped with a heatsink, making it ready for PS5 installation. The SN850X is also known for its low latency, which benefits gamers who want a smooth, responsive gaming experience.
One of the major selling points of the WD Black SN850X is its excellent value for money, particularly with the 2TB model, which strikes an outstanding balance between price and performance. It also offers an extended warranty, making it a reliable choice for long-term use.
4. Adata XPG Gammix S70 Blade
Adata XPG Gammix S70 Blade
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 NVMe 1.4
- Speed on PS5: Under the operating environment of the PS5, the sequential read speed of both 1TB and 2TB models measured at 6100MB/s * To be able to work on PS5, PS5 firmware 21.02-04.00.00.42 or higher is required
- Speed on PC/Laptop: Sequential R/W up to 7400/6800MB/s *Test performed in ADATA internal lab; actual performance varies by paired system and testing environment. When paired with PCie 3.0 port, max R/W will be limited to 3400/3000MB/s
- Form factor: M.2 2280 *This drive will only work with an M/B that supports PCIe 4 (PCIe 3 backward compatible). It is designed for direct installation onto the M/B and may not work with an external enclosure.
- Backed by a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty
If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise on performance, the Adata XPG Gammix S70 Blade is a great option. With read speeds of 6,384 MB/s, it is slightly slower than the top performers but still exceeds Sony’s minimum requirement. The Gammix S70 Blade is one of the most affordable high-performance SSDs for the PS5, making it perfect for those who want good value for their money.
However, it’s important to note that while the heatsink is included, it’s not as robust as those found on higher-end models. Therefore, gamers who engage in long gaming sessions might need to monitor the temperature to ensure consistent performance.
5. Crucial P5 Plus
Crucial P5 Plus
- Proven game performance: Get speeds up to 6,600MB/s for endless victories
- Compatible with PlayStation 5: Even faster than PS5 requirements for the edge in-game
- Sleek integrated heatsink: Push your gaming to the limit while dissipating heat in style
- DirectStorage enabled: Load games and assets faster with Microsoft DirectStorage
- Fully loaded: Up to 2TB of powerful capacity** for more games, apps, photos, and more. Includes a 5-year limited warranty
The Crucial P5 Plus is another budget-friendly option that meets the PS5’s stringent speed requirements. It offers read speeds up to 6,600 MB/s and balances performance and price well. The P5 Plus also has good durability ratings, making it a solid choice for gamers looking for reliable, long-lasting storage.
One downside is that the P5 Plus doesn’t come with a heatsink, so you must purchase one separately if you plan to use it with your PS5.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right PS5 SSD
Upgrading your PS5 storage is an excellent way to improve your gaming experience. It allows you to store more games and reduce load times. The Samsung 990 Pro and Seagate FireCuda 530 are among the best options for performance-focused gamers, while the Adata XPG Gammix S70 Blade and Crucial P5 Plus provide more affordable yet capable alternatives.
When choosing an SSD, ensure it meets Sony’s requirements, has good cooling, and offers enough capacity to suit your needs. Whether you prioritize speed, storage space, or affordability, an SSD on this list will meet your needs and enhance your PS5 experience.
FAQ
What are the best SSDs for PS5?
The top choices for speed and capacity are the Samsung 990 Pro, Seagate FireCuda 530, and WD Black SN850X.
Do PS5 SSDs need a heatsink?
Yes, a heatsink is recommended to prevent overheating and ensure stable performance.
What storage capacity is best for PS5?
1TB suits casual gamers, but 2TB or 8TB is ideal for those with more extensive game libraries.
What is the minimum read speed for PS5 SSDs?
SSDs must have at least 5,500 MB/s read speed, though faster options like 7,000 MB/s are available.
Can any SSD work with the PS5?
Only PCIe 4.0 NVMe M., 2 2280 SSDs with heatsinks and high read speeds, are compatible.
Is installing an SSD in a PS5 difficult?
It’s relatively straightforward with Sony’s guide; you need a screwdriver and the correct SSD.