PS5 Memory: 7 Best SSD Storage Upgrades for More Games

Running out of PS5 memory can make managing your game library frustrating. Although the console’s RAM cannot be upgraded, you can expand its game storage with a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD. This guide compares seven PlayStation 5 storage upgrades, covering capacity, speed, heatsink requirements, compatibility, and value to help you choose the right drive.

Quick Verdict: Best PS5 Memory Upgrades

A compatible internal SSD is the most practical way to increase PlayStation 5 storage while retaining the ability to launch PS5 games directly from the expanded space.

These seven drives address different purchasing priorities.

• Best Overall: WD_BLACK SN850P with Heatsink — Officially licensed for PlayStation 5, with a convenient preinstalled heatsink and high-capacity options.

• Best Premium Performance: Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink — Delivers up to 7,450 MB/s sequential read speed, backed by Samsung’s V-NAND technology and dedicated DRAM cache.

• Best Value for Most Gamers: Corsair MP600 PRO LPX — Combines strong PCIe 4.0 performance with a low-profile heatsink designed for PS5 installation.

• Best Budget-Friendly Option: Lexar NM790 with Heatsink — Offers high advertised sequential read speeds and a DRAM-less design that can be competitively priced.

• Best for Endurance-Focused Buyers: Kingston FURY Renegade with Heatsink — Provides high-performance TLC NAND storage and strong published endurance specifications.

• Best for Mixed PC and PS5 Use: Crucial T500 with Heatsink — A versatile PCIe 4.0 SSD suitable for console storage and compatible PC builds.

• Best Alternative for Heavy Game Libraries: Seagate FireCuda 530 with Heatsink — Combines strong sequential performance, high endurance ratings, and an integrated cooling solution.

  

Quick Comparison Table: 7 Best PS5 SSDs

Advertised speeds are manufacturer maximums under specific test conditions. Results vary by capacity, firmware, system configuration, and workload. The PS5’s built-in SSD speed test should not be treated as directly comparable to desktop PC benchmark results.

Understanding PS5 Memory Before Upgrading

PS5 RAM vs. PS5 Storage

The word memory can refer to two different computer components: random access memory and storage.

RAM temporarily holds information needed by running applications, whereas SSD storage retains installed games, applications, and other data.

The standard PS5 uses 16GB of GDDR6 system memory. This is not user-upgradable through a conventional memory-module installation.

The PS5 Pro also uses a fixed memory architecture rather than standard replaceable PC RAM modules.

By contrast, PS5 storage can be expanded by installing a compatible M.2 SSD in the console’s dedicated expansion slot.

If your main problem is insufficient space for downloaded games, an SSD is the correct upgrade.

Official PS5 SSD Requirements

Sony specifies the following requirements and recommendations for compatible M.2 storage:

The thickness allowance includes no more than 8mm above the SSD circuit board and 2.45mm below it.

An M.2 SATA drive is not compatible with the PS5 expansion slot, even when its physical connector appears similar.

Sony also notes that meeting the basic specifications does not guarantee identical game performance across every third-party SSD.

How We Selected These PS5 Storage Upgrades

The recommendations prioritize confirmed PCIe 4.0 NVMe designs, suitable physical dimensions, compatible cooling options, manufacturer specifications, and useful storage capacities.

Additional considerations include NAND flash type, controller characteristics, endurance ratings, installation convenience, and whether the drive provides features that matter to console owners.

All seven selected product families offer variants with heatsinks suitable for PS5 storage expansion.

These are research-based recommendations rather than claims of original detailed research. Maximum advertised specifications should not be interpreted as measured in-console gaming performance.

7 Best PS5 Memory Upgrades Reviewed

1. WD_BLACK SN850P with Heatsink — Best Overall PS5 SSD

Best For: PlayStation 5 owners who prioritize straightforward compatibility, high-capacity storage, and an SSD officially licensed for their console.

Why We Picked It: The WD_BLACK SN850P is designed specifically for PlayStation 5 storage expansion. Its integrated heatsink fits the PS5 M.2 expansion slot, and its PCIe 4.0 interface provides performance beyond Sony’s recommended sequential read-speed threshold.

Key Specifications

• Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe

• Form factor: M.2 2280

• Sequential read speed: Up to 7,300 MB/s

• Sequential write speed: Up to 6,600 MB/s on selected capacities

• Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB

• Cooling: Integrated PS5-optimized heatsink

• Warranty: Five-year limited warranty

• Compatibility: PlayStation 5 and compatible PCs

Features & Benefits

The most important advantage of the SN850P is its officially licensed PlayStation status.

While many third-party M.2 drives satisfy Sony’s technical requirements, the SN850P is specifically designed and marketed as a PS5 storage upgrade.

Its integrated heatsink removes the need to purchase a separate thermal solution.

The SSD also offers substantial capacity options, including an 8TB model for players who maintain exceptionally large digital libraries.

Performance & Practical Use

The SN850P’s advertised sequential read speed exceeds Sony’s 5,500 MB/s recommendation.

Once installed and formatted, the drive can store and run PS5 games directly.

This is useful for players who regularly switch between large games and want to avoid deleting older installations.

However, the drive’s advertised maximum read speed does not mean games will load proportionally faster than on the PS5’s built-in SSD.

Game engines, asset compression, and system behavior affect real-world loading performance.

What Makes It Different

The SN850P stands apart through its official PlayStation licensing, integrated cooling design, and large-capacity range.

It prioritizes installation confidence rather than offering an unusual experimental feature.

Pros

• Officially licensed for PS5.

• Heatsink designed for the console’s M.2 slot.

• Capacity options up to 8TB.

Cons

• PlayStation branding may carry a price premium.

• Higher-capacity variants require significant expenditure.

Buy If: You want a straightforward PS5 storage upgrade and prefer an officially licensed product.

Skip If: A less expensive compatible SSD provides comparable capacity and meets your requirements.

2. Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink — Best Premium Performance

Best For: Gamers who want a high-performance PCIe 4.0 SSD with dedicated DRAM cache and strong desktop PC versatility.

Why We Picked It: The Samsung 990 PRO offers up to 7,450 MB/s sequential read speed and uses Samsung V-NAND technology with an integrated controller.

The heatsink version is suitable for PS5 storage expansion, provided buyers select the correct product configuration.

Key Specifications

• Interface: PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe

• Form factor: M.2 2280

• Sequential read speed: Up to 7,450 MB/s

• Sequential write speed: Up to 6,900 MB/s

• Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB

• NAND: Samsung V-NAND TLC

• DRAM cache: Dedicated LPDDR4 cache

• Cooling: Integrated heatsink version

• Warranty: Five-year limited warranty

Features & Benefits

The 990 PRO is designed for demanding storage workloads, including gaming and content creation.

Its dedicated DRAM cache helps the SSD maintain mapping information used by the controller to manage stored data.

This architecture can benefit workloads involving frequent metadata operations and mixed storage requests.

Samsung also offers SSD management functionality through its desktop software, although these utilities are intended for compatible computers rather than operation within the PS5 interface.

Performance & Practical Use

For PlayStation 5 gaming, the 990 PRO delivers more than sufficient advertised sequential bandwidth.

Its high-performance controller and TLC NAND make it suitable for large game installations and data transfers.

However, buyers should not assume that its 7,450 MB/s maximum specification means noticeably faster gameplay than every SSD rated at 7,000 MB/s.

The PS5 imposes its own system-level limitations, making storage capacity, reliability, and cost important considerations.

What Makes It Different

The 990 PRO provides a combination of high sequential performance, dedicated DRAM, and broad usefulness in gaming PCs.

It is especially attractive to buyers who may eventually move the drive into a compatible desktop computer.

Pros

• High advertised sequential read performance.

• Dedicated DRAM cache and TLC NAND.

• Suitable for both PS5 and compatible PC applications.

Cons

• Premium pricing may not provide meaningful console-specific advantages.

• Buyers must choose the heatsink edition or add a compliant cooling solution.

Buy If: You want a premium SSD suitable for PS5 gaming and future PC applications.

Skip If: You only need inexpensive storage expansion and do not benefit from higher-end PC storage characteristics.

3. Corsair MP600 PRO LPX — Best Value for Most PS5 Gamers

Best For: Console owners who want an easy-to-install SSD with strong specifications and an integrated low-profile heatsink.

Why We Picked It: The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX is designed with PlayStation 5 compatibility in mind. It uses a PCIe 4.0 x4 interface and includes a low-profile aluminum cooling solution.

Key Specifications

• Interface: PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe

• Form factor: M.2 2280

• Sequential read speed: Up to 7,100 MB/s

• Sequential write speed: Up to 6,800 MB/s

• Capacities: Up to 8TB, depending on model

• NAND: 3D TLC

• Cooling: Preinstalled low-profile aluminum heatsink

• Warranty: Five-year limited warranty

• PS5 support: Manufacturer-designated compatible model

Features & Benefits

The MP600 PRO LPX is designed to address three essential PS5 requirements: speed, cooling, and physical compatibility.

Its low-profile heatsink is particularly convenient because adding an oversized aftermarket heatsink can prevent the PS5’s expansion-slot cover from fitting correctly.

The SSD’s PCIe 4.0 interface provides more than enough advertised sequential performance to satisfy Sony’s recommended specification.

Its available storage capacities also suit a variety of digital libraries.

Performance & Practical Use

The MP600 PRO LPX offers a practical solution for players who have accumulated numerous installed games.

A 2TB version is particularly attractive as a balanced capacity for users who frequently download large titles but do not need an enormous archive.

A 4TB or larger option can be appropriate for households sharing a console or players who maintain extensive collections.

Actual value depends on the price of the specific capacity at the time of purchase.

What Makes It Different

The Corsair prioritizes convenience through its preinstalled cooling solution and explicitly PS5-oriented design.

It provides competitive storage specifications without depending on official PlayStation licensing.

Pros

• Preinstalled low-profile heatsink.

• Strong PCIe 4.0 performance.

• Multiple capacity options.

Cons

• Pricing and availability vary by capacity.

• Peak specifications may be unnecessary for console gaming alone.

Buy If: You want a practical PS5 SSD with minimal installation complications.

Skip If: A competing compatible model with equal capacity is significantly less expensive.

4. Lexar NM790 with Heatsink — Best Budget-Friendly PS5 SSD

Best For: Cost-conscious gamers seeking substantial additional storage without paying for premium SSD branding.

Why We Picked It: The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink offers up to 7,400 MB/s advertised sequential read performance and a cooling solution suitable for PS5 installation.

Key Specifications

• Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe

• Form factor: M.2 2280

• Sequential read speed: Up to 7,400 MB/s

• Sequential write speed: Up to 6,500 MB/s

• NAND: 3D TLC

• DRAM: DRAM-less controller design

• Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB in the original heatsink range

• Cooling: Integrated heatsink version

• PS5 compatibility: Manufacturer-supported

Features & Benefits

The NM790 uses a DRAM-less architecture, helping reduce the complexity and component cost associated with a dedicated onboard DRAM cache.

For compatible desktop computers, its controller can use Host Memory Buffer technology.

However, the PlayStation 5 does not support HMB for expansion SSDs, so buyers should not assume that feature operates on the console.

Despite this limitation, the NM790 with Heatsink is specifically marketed as PS5 compatible.

Performance & Practical Use

The NM790 is attractive for buyers who mainly want additional space to install and play games.

Its advertised sequential performance exceeds Sony’s recommendation, and its integrated cooling solution simplifies installation.

For typical gaming workloads, differences between high-performance PCIe 4.0 SSDs may be considerably smaller than their advertised speed ratings suggest.

Nevertheless, a DRAM-less design can behave differently from DRAM-equipped alternatives under demanding or sustained storage workloads.

What Makes It Different

The NM790’s distinguishing feature is its combination of high advertised bandwidth and a DRAM-less architecture.

It can offer strong capacity-per-dollar value when priced competitively.

Pros

• High advertised sequential read speed.

• Compatible heatsink-equipped option.

• Potentially strong value for large-capacity storage.

Cons

• DRAM-less design.

• HMB acceleration is unavailable on PS5.

Buy If: You want more game storage at a competitive price and do not require premium PC-oriented SSD features.

Skip If: Dedicated DRAM or performance under intensive sustained PC workloads is a priority.

5. Kingston FURY Renegade with Heatsink — Best for Endurance

Best For: Gamers who value high endurance specifications, strong PCIe 4.0 performance, and a durable storage upgrade.

Why We Picked It: The Kingston FURY Renegade combines a high-performance PCIe 4.0 controller with TLC NAND and endurance ratings intended for demanding storage use.

Key Specifications

• Interface: PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe

• Form factor: M.2 2280

• Sequential read speed: Up to 7,300 MB/s

• Sequential write speed: Up to 7,000 MB/s

• NAND: 3D TLC

• DRAM cache: Dedicated DRAM

• Capacities: Multiple options, including 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB

• Cooling: Integrated aluminum heatsink version

• Warranty: Five-year limited warranty

Features & Benefits

The FURY Renegade is designed for demanding gaming and high-performance storage workloads.

Its dedicated DRAM architecture supports controller mapping operations, while its TLC flash contributes to its endurance characteristics.

Kingston offers a heatsink-equipped model specifically suited to PlayStation 5 storage expansion.

The manufacturer has also documented installation and performance behavior on PS5 systems.

Performance & Practical Use

The FURY Renegade is suitable for installing large games, transferring existing titles, and maintaining an extensive digital library.

Its high sequential throughput supports rapid file operations, although actual transfer rates vary with source storage and system behavior.

Endurance ratings can matter when a drive repeatedly handles large write workloads.

However, normal game installation and gameplay rarely place the same sustained write demands on an SSD as certain workstation applications.

Most console owners should therefore compare capacity and pricing before paying extra solely for a higher endurance rating.

What Makes It Different

The Kingston focuses on traditional high-end SSD characteristics, combining TLC flash, dedicated DRAM, and strong rated endurance.

It is also useful for buyers who may repurpose the SSD in a compatible PC.

Pros

• Strong published endurance characteristics.

• Dedicated DRAM and TLC NAND.

• Integrated heatsink version available.

Cons

• Premium specifications may provide limited gaming-specific benefits.

• Higher pricing can reduce value compared with simpler alternatives.

Buy If: You want an endurance-oriented SSD for PS5 use and potentially demanding PC workloads later.

Skip If: You primarily want the lowest cost per terabyte.

6. Crucial T500 with Heatsink — Best for PS5 and PC Flexibility

Best For: Players who want a fast gaming SSD that can also handle demanding desktop storage applications.

Why We Picked It: The Crucial T500 combines PCIe 4.0 performance with TLC NAND, dedicated DRAM, and a heatsink-equipped version appropriate for PS5 expansion.

Key Specifications

• Interface: PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe

• Form factor: M.2 2280

• Sequential read speed: Up to 7,400 MB/s

• Sequential write speed: Up to 7,000 MB/s

• NAND: Micron 3D TLC

• DRAM cache: Dedicated DRAM

• Capacities: Multiple configurations, including 1TB and 2TB

• Cooling: Available with integrated heatsink

• Warranty: Five-year limited warranty

Features & Benefits

The T500 uses Micron NAND technology and a modern SSD controller architecture.

Its high sequential bandwidth makes it suitable for game installations and storage-intensive PC applications.

The dedicated DRAM cache helps support internal controller mapping and storage management functions.

For PS5 use, the heatsink version simplifies cooling compatibility.

Performance & Practical Use

The T500 offers sufficient advertised read performance for PS5 storage expansion.

Its capabilities also make it relevant to PC gaming, content creation, and large-file workflows.

However, the console cannot take advantage of every performance characteristic associated with high-end desktop SSD workloads.

For this reason, buyers should evaluate whether the T500’s particular feature set justifies its price compared with less expensive compatible drives.

What Makes It Different

The T500 is a versatile storage solution that offers advantages beyond simple console expansion.

It makes particular sense for households with both a PlayStation 5 and a high-performance desktop computer.

Pros

• High sequential read and write specifications.

• TLC NAND and dedicated DRAM.

• Heatsink-equipped option suitable for PS5.

Cons

• Premium PC-oriented capabilities may be underused on a console.

• Bare-drive versions require an additional compatible heatsink.

Buy If: You want a versatile SSD for console gaming and potential future PC use.

Skip If: Your priority is inexpensive storage capacity without advanced desktop SSD features.

7. Seagate FireCuda 530 with Heatsink — Best High-End Alternative

Best For: Gamers seeking a capable high-end PCIe 4.0 SSD with strong endurance ratings and integrated cooling.

Why We Picked It: The FireCuda 530 offers up to 7,300 MB/s sequential read performance and a heatsink developed in collaboration with cooling specialist EKWB.

Key Specifications

• Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe

• Form factor: M.2 2280

• Sequential read speed: Up to 7,300 MB/s

• Sequential write speed: Up to 6,900 MB/s

• NAND: 3D TLC

• DRAM cache: Dedicated DRAM

• Capacities: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB among supported configurations

• Cooling: Integrated EKWB-designed heatsink version

• Warranty: Five-year limited warranty

Features & Benefits

The FireCuda 530 is designed for high-performance storage tasks and provides substantial endurance specifications.

Its integrated heatsink helps manage heat during sustained storage activity.

This is relevant because NVMe SSDs can reduce operating performance when temperatures exceed certain limits.

Seagate specifically identifies the heatsink-equipped FireCuda 530 as compatible with PS5 storage expansion.

Performance & Practical Use

The FireCuda 530 provides ample performance for installing, transferring, and running PlayStation 5 games.

Its high sequential bandwidth makes large file transfers practical, while its heatsink helps maintain suitable operating temperatures.

However, the drive’s original high-end positioning means its value depends heavily on available pricing.

Newer or less expensive compatible models may offer similar practical PS5 gaming performance.

What Makes It Different

The FireCuda 530 combines high endurance, dedicated DRAM, and a preinstalled heatsink developed with a recognized cooling manufacturer.

It remains an attractive option when buyers can obtain it at a competitive price.

Pros

• High published endurance ratings.

• Integrated heatsink designed for the drive.

• Strong PCIe 4.0 performance.

Cons

• Pricing can be less competitive than alternative models.

• Premium specifications do not guarantee noticeably better console gaming performance.

Buy If: You find the heatsink version at a competitive price and want a proven high-performance SSD design.

Skip If: A newer or more affordable compatible drive offers better capacity-per-dollar value.

PS5 Memory Buying Guide

How Much PS5 Storage Do You Need?

Storage capacity is often more important than small differences in advertised SSD speed.

Modern console games vary substantially in size. Some indie titles occupy only a few gigabytes, while major games can require over 100GB and sometimes considerably more when updates and optional content are included.

The best capacity depends on how many games you want installed simultaneously.

A 2TB SSD is a sensible starting point for many regular gamers because it provides substantial additional space without necessarily requiring the investment associated with 4TB or 8TB models.

Remember that advertised SSD capacity and usable formatted capacity are not identical.

Does PS5 Need an SSD with a Heatsink?

Yes. Sony requires an effective heat-dissipation mechanism for M.2 SSD storage expansion.

Many compatible drives are sold with preinstalled heatsinks.

Others use bare SSD designs that require buyers to install a suitable cooling solution.

A heatsink helps transfer thermal energy away from the SSD controller and NAND components.

Without adequate cooling, the SSD may reduce performance to control its temperature.

Buyers should verify the total dimensions of the SSD and heatsink before installation.

Is 5,500 MB/s Enough for PS5?

Sony recommends a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s for M.2 expansion storage.

All seven models reviewed here advertise maximum speeds above that threshold.

However, higher advertised speeds do not necessarily produce proportionally shorter loading times.

Game optimization, storage access patterns, CPU processing, decompression, and other system operations influence loading performance.

A compatible SSD offering 7,000 MB/s may provide a very similar everyday console experience to a model rated at 7,400 MB/s.

TLC vs. QLC NAND for PS5

NAND flash is the underlying storage technology used by SSDs.

TLC stores three bits per memory cell, while QLC stores four bits per cell.

TLC SSDs generally provide stronger write-endurance and sustained-write characteristics than comparable QLC designs, although controller quality, caching, and firmware also matter.

For a console that primarily downloads games and reads installed data, both technologies can potentially serve useful purposes when implemented in a fully compatible SSD.

All seven drives in this roundup use TLC-based storage designs.

Does DRAM Matter for PS5?

Some NVMe SSDs include dedicated DRAM to store controller mapping data.

Others use DRAM-less designs.

On compatible computers, certain DRAM-less SSDs use Host Memory Buffer technology to access a small portion of system RAM.

The PS5 does not support HMB for its expansion SSD interface.

This means DRAM-less drives cannot rely on the same host-memory acceleration available in compatible PCs.

Nevertheless, DRAM-less SSDs specifically designed and validated for PS5 use can still be practical storage upgrades.

Dedicated DRAM should be considered a useful design characteristic rather than an absolute purchasing requirement.

Internal SSD vs. External USB Storage

Internal M.2 expansion and external USB storage serve different purposes.

External USB storage can help archive PS5 games, reducing the need to download them again.

However, PS5 games stored on an external USB drive must be copied back to compatible internal storage before they can launch.

An internal M.2 SSD is therefore preferable when the goal is to play more installed PS5 games without moving files repeatedly.

How to Install an M.2 SSD in PS5

Installing a compatible SSD requires careful handling but does not usually require specialized technical experience.

Step 1: Prepare the Console

Shut down the PlayStation 5 completely.

Disconnect its power cable, HDMI cable, and other attached devices.

Allow the console to cool before opening it.

Prepare a clean, stable work surface and a suitable Phillips screwdriver.

Step 2: Remove the Console Cover

Carefully remove the appropriate exterior panel to access the M.2 expansion compartment.

The cover-removal process differs between the original PS5, PS5 Slim, and PS5 Pro.

Follow the procedure appropriate to your console’s model number rather than forcing the cover in an unfamiliar direction.

Step 3: Open the M.2 Expansion Slot

Locate the metal expansion-slot cover and remove its retaining screw.

Set the cover and screw aside safely.

Adjust the SSD mounting spacer to the length of the drive you intend to install.

Most products in this roundup use the M.2 2280 form factor.

Step 4: Install the SSD

Insert the SSD’s connector into the expansion socket at a slight angle.

Ensure the connector is fully seated.

Lower the SSD gently onto the mounting spacer and secure it using the appropriate screw.

Do not overtighten the screw or force the drive.

Confirm that the heatsink fits within the expansion compartment.

Step 5: Reassemble the Console

Replace the M.2 expansion-slot cover and reinstall the exterior panel.

Reconnect the console’s power, display, and accessories.

Ensure everything is properly secured before powering on.

Step 6: Format the SSD

When the PS5 detects a newly installed compatible SSD, it should offer the option to format the storage.

Follow the on-screen instructions.

Formatting erases existing data on the selected SSD, so any important files must be backed up beforehand.

After formatting, the console can make the additional storage available for installing and transferring games.

Step 7: Configure Game Installation Preferences

Open the console’s storage settings to review the available storage devices.

You can select installation preferences for compatible games and move existing titles between the built-in console storage and M.2 expansion storage.

This helps organize frequently played games and keep sufficient space available for future downloads.

Common PS5 Memory Upgrade Mistakes

Buying an M.2 SATA SSD Instead of NVMe

Not all M.2 drives use the same interface.

PS5 expansion storage requires a supported PCIe NVMe SSD.

M.2 SATA drives are incompatible even when their appearance resembles that of supported NVMe products.

Installing an SSD Without Adequate Cooling

Sony requires effective thermal management for M.2 SSD expansion.

Installing a bare drive without a suitable cooling structure can cause thermal problems.

Select an SSD with an integrated heatsink or install an aftermarket heatsink that meets the console’s size limitations.

Buying an Oversized Heatsink

Some PC-focused SSD heatsinks are too tall or wide for the PS5 expansion compartment.

An oversized cooling structure may prevent the expansion-slot cover from fitting properly.

Check the SSD and assembled heatsink dimensions before buying.

Assuming Faster Advertised SSD Speeds Always Mean Faster Games

Sequential bandwidth is only one storage characteristic.

Gaming loading times depend on many factors, and the highest-rated SSD is not necessarily the best overall purchase.

Capacity, compatibility, thermal design, and price may be more important.

Confusing PS5 RAM with Expandable Storage

An M.2 SSD increases storage space, not the console’s system RAM.

Installing a larger SSD will not increase CPU performance, GPU capability, or available GDDR6 memory.

Its primary benefit is allowing additional games and applications to remain installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Upgrade PS5 Memory?

You can expand PlayStation 5 storage by installing a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD.

However, the console’s system RAM is not designed for consumer upgrades.

If your goal is installing more games, an M.2 SSD is the correct upgrade.

What Is the Best PS5 Memory Upgrade?

The WD_BLACK SN850P with Heatsink is a strong overall choice because it is officially licensed for PS5 and includes a compatible cooling solution.

The Samsung 990 PRO and Corsair MP600 PRO LPX are also compelling options.

The best value depends on the capacity required and the price available when purchasing.

Is 1TB or 2TB Better for PS5?

A 1TB SSD is suitable for smaller collections and buyers with tighter budgets.

A 2TB SSD is generally more practical for regular gamers who want to keep numerous large titles installed.

Buyers should compare the price per terabyte rather than looking only at total purchase price.

Can PS5 Games Run Directly from an M.2 SSD?

Yes. Compatible M.2 expansion storage can be used to install, store, and launch PlayStation 5 games directly.

This differs from external USB storage, which cannot directly run PS5 games.

Does Adding an SSD Make PS5 Faster?

Adding a compatible SSD primarily increases available storage.

It does not upgrade the console’s processor or graphics hardware.

Game loading behavior can vary between storage devices, but users should not expect increased rendering performance or higher frame rates simply from installing an SSD.

Can You Install an 8TB SSD in PS5?

Yes. Sony supports compatible M.2 NVMe drives with capacities up to 8TB.

The SSD must also meet the console’s interface, cooling, and physical compatibility requirements.

An 8TB model is most appropriate for exceptionally large game libraries where the additional cost is justified.

Conclusion

The best PS5 memory upgrade is a compatible PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD that provides enough space for your game library without unnecessary expense. The WD_BLACK SN850P offers official PlayStation licensing and convenient installation, while the Samsung 990 PRO is attractive for premium storage performance. The Corsair MP600 PRO LPX and Lexar NM790 provide practical alternatives for capacity-focused buyers, with Kingston, Crucial, and Seagate offering additional high-performance choices. For most regular gamers, a compatible 2TB SSD with an integrated heatsink offers a particularly useful balance of capacity, convenience, and cost.

You Might Also Like

5 Best Wireless Controller Games (2026)5 Best Joysticks for Flight Simulator (2026)5 Best 3rd Party Xbox Controllers (2026)Why Won’t My PS5 Controller Connect (2026 Guide)Ps5 M 2 Ssd: 6 Best Storage Upgrades for Gaming in 20264 Best Controller Compatible Games (2026)

Explore Our Guides & Free Tools

🔧 PSU Wattage Calculator (Free PC Power Supply Sizing Tool)

• 📚 Desks
• 📚 Gaming PCs
• 📚 Headsets
• 📚 Keyboards
• 📚 Mouse
• 📚 Routers