PS5 Expansion SSD Requirements

The PlayStation 5 requires specific M.2 NVMe SSDs for expansion, with Sony setting strict compatibility criteria. These include a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface, minimum 5,500 Mo/s sequential read speed, capacities from 250 GB to 8 TB, and precise physical dimensions.

Recommended SSDs for PS5

The Sandisk Optimus GX PRO 850X is highlighted as the best choice for most users, offering up to 7,300 Mo/s read speeds and priced between €350 and €400 for the 2 TB version. For budget-conscious buyers, the Crucial P310 2280 is recommended, priced around €250 for 2 TB, though it uses QLC flash memory and lacks a DRAM cache.

Higher-Performance Options and Limitations

The Samsung 9100 PRO is a PCIe 5.0 SSD, potentially useful for PCs with that interface, but on the PS5, its performance is limited to PCIe 4.0 speeds. It is priced over €450 for 2 TB. The Samsung 990 PRO is a mid-range option, offering up to 7,450 Mo/s read speeds and priced between €350 and €450 for 2 TB.

Internal Storage and Future Game Requirements

The original PS5 has 825 GB of internal storage, with around 667 GB usable after the system is installed. The PS5 Pro includes 2 TB of internal storage, and the PS5 Slim also has an M.2 slot for expansion. The upcoming Grand Theft Auto VI is expected to require around 210 GB of storage on the PS5, emphasizing the need for expansion.

SSD Market and Installation

SSD prices have risen significantly since late 2025 due to a shortage of flash memory, with current prices updated as of late October 2026. Installing an M.2 SSD in the PS5 involves removing the console’s side panel or top cover, accessing the M.2 slot, and securing the SSD with a heatsink if included. Sony provides detailed instructions on its support page.

External Storage Limitations

While external USB storage can be used for PS4 games and as a secondary storage option for PS5 games, these games must be transferred to the internal SSD or M.2 SSD for gameplay. The Sandisk Optimus GX PRO 850P, licensed by Sony, offers guaranteed compatibility but is priced over €500 for 2 TB.