Why You Need More PS5 Storage
The PS5 ships with an 825GB SSD, but once you account for the operating system and a handful of modern games, that space fills up fast. The good news? Sony designed the PS5 with an expansion slot specifically for adding more storage. This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
What You'll Need
- A compatible M.2 NVMe SSD (Gen 4 recommended for best performance)
- A small Phillips-head screwdriver
- Optionally: a small M.2 heatsink (highly recommended to prevent thermal throttling)
Choosing the Right SSD
Not just any SSD will work well in the PS5. Here's what to look for:
| Specification | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen 4 | PCIe Gen 4 |
| Read Speed | 5,500 MB/s | 7,000+ MB/s |
| Form Factor | M.2 2280 | M.2 2280 |
| Capacity | 250GB | 1TB–2TB |
Popular well-regarded options include drives from Samsung, Seagate, WD, and Corsair in the Gen 4 lineup. Always verify compatibility before purchasing.
Step-by-Step Installation
- Power down your PS5 completely — not rest mode. Hold the power button until you hear two beeps.
- Unplug all cables and place the console on a soft, flat surface.
- Remove the faceplate by gripping the top corner near the PS logo and pulling upward, then sliding it off. The slot cover is on the side with the disc drive (or the flat side on Digital Edition).
- Unscrew the M.2 expansion bay cover (one screw holds it in place).
- Remove the spacer screw from the correct position for your SSD's length (usually 2280 for standard drives).
- If using a heatsink, attach it to your SSD now, following the heatsink's instructions.
- Insert the SSD at a slight angle into the M.2 slot, then press it flat and screw in the spacer bolt to secure it.
- Replace the expansion bay cover and reattach the faceplate.
- Power on your PS5 — it will automatically prompt you to format the new drive.
After Installation
Once formatted, your PS5 will show the new storage as available space. You can choose to store PS5 games directly on the M.2 drive for full-speed performance, or use it alongside a USB external drive for PS4 game storage.
Pro Tips
- Always back up important save data to PS Plus cloud saves or a USB drive before opening the console.
- Ground yourself by touching a metal object before handling the SSD to avoid static discharge.
- If the system doesn't detect the drive on first boot, power off, reseat the SSD, and try again.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. A 2TB M.2 SSD is one of the best investments you can make for your PS5. Installation takes under 15 minutes, and the performance uplift and extra breathing room for your game library makes the experience much more enjoyable.