This article may include affiliate links that earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, and some content was created with the help of AI tools but reviewed and approved by a human before publishing.
Update (8/13/2021): We added a new SSD to our recommended list.
Sony has officially unlocked the PS5’s hidden SSD bay with a software update, giving you the chance to upgrade your storage. If you have been juggling game installs and deleting old favorites, this is huge news. But before you buy an SSD, there are strict rules you need to follow to make sure it works with your console.
What Your PS5 SSD Must Have
Sony has set clear requirements for compatible drives. If your SSD does not meet these requirements, your PS5 will not recognize it. Here is what you need to look for:
- Type: M.2 form factor
- Interface: NVMe Gen 4 or newer
- Storage Size: 256GB to 4TB
- Read Speed: At least 5,500MB/s
- Cooling: Must include a heatsink since the PS5’s slot has no built-in cooling
Tip: Many drives come with a built-in heatsink, saving you the trouble of installing one yourself.
Size and Fit Requirements
The SSD must physically fit inside the PS5’s tight bay. Sony has been very specific about the dimensions:
- Height: Maximum 11.25mm including the heatsink
- 8mm above the board and 2.45mm below
- Width: Maximum 25mm including the heatsink
- Length: Supported sizes are 30mm, 42mm, 60mm, 80mm, or 110mm
Think of it like finding the right shoe size. Even if the style is right, it has to fit perfectly, or it will not work.
Drives That Will Not Work
Some drives are completely incompatible. Avoid these when shopping:
- Type: M.2 SATA drives
- Features: Drives with Host Memory Buffer (HMB)
If you buy one of these by mistake, your PS5 will not recognize it, so always check the specs before purchasing.
Nice-to-Have Features
- Single-sided or double-sided drives are both supported, so you have more options.
- A pre-installed heatsink makes installation easier and safer for your console.
Recommended PS5 SSDs
We have tested and researched several drives that meet Sony’s requirements. Here are some trusted options with built-in heatsinks that are ready to install right out of the box:
- Western Digital Black SN850X – Fast and dependable, perfect for heavy gamers.
- Samsung 980 Pro with Heatsink – A reliable option with excellent speed.
- Seagate FireCuda 530 – Strong performance and long-term durability.
We will keep this list updated as more compatible drives are released.
Why This Upgrade Matters
Adding an SSD to your PS5 is like giving your console a breath of fresh air. With extra space, you can keep more games installed, reduce download time, and prepare your console for future releases without constantly deleting older titles.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your PS5 storage is simple once you know the rules. Follow Sony’s guidelines, choose a compatible drive, and enjoy more room for your favorite games.
Which SSD are you planning to use for your PS5? Share your pick in the comments and help other gamers make the right choice.
