What Is An M.2 SSD?
An M.2 SSD device is a high-speed solid-state drive that you can install in your PS5 internally to increase the total storage capacity of the console. It is possible to install on both the standard PS5 and the digital edition PS5. Adding an M.2 SSD allows you to expand your storage capacity, which can be used to download, copy and play both PS5 and PS4 games along with use for media applications. Plus, you can easily move your installed games between your console storage and the added M.2 SSD storage device.
Supported M.2 SSDs
Not all M.2 SSDs are supported by the PS5, so it is imperative that you confirm whether the SSD in question meets the requirements or not before buying the SSD. The M.2 SSD requirements for a PS5 console are as follows:
Heat Dissipation
It is important to note that adequate heat dissipation with an appropriate cooling structure is critical if you want to install an M.2 SSD in your PS5 console. Cooling structures can include a heat transfer sheet or a more commonly used heatsink. You can either buy an M.2 SSD with a built-in cooling structure or attach them to your SSD yourself. When you buy the cooling structures, they come with instructions on how to install them. Different brands may vary slightly, but they all follow generally similar guidelines. If you’re still unsure how to install the cooling structures, it would be best to buy an M.2 SSD with a built-in heatsink or get one installed by an expert. There are two types of cooling structure formats: single-sided and double-sided. Single-sided formats are generally an easier fit. PS5 console supports both single and double-sided M.2 SSD devices. Sometimes the cooling structures may come with the purchase of your M.2 SSD drive. Note that the above specified supported sizes will fit the PS5 console’s SSD slot without any issues. But, if you install a cooling structure such as a heatsink onto the SSD, you need to ensure the size meets the specified dimensions stated above. This is essential as the sizes of these cooling structures vary considerably. If you’re unsure about the size, it would be best to consult with the vendor to confirm the dimensions. As mentioned in the requirements above, there is a leeway of up to 8.0 mm above the SSD and 2.25 mm below the SSD. Accordingly, the heatsink must not exceed these dimensions, or the SSD won’t fit in the slot. You’re out of luck if you’re considering M.2 SATA SSD, as SATA SSDs are not supported.
Firmware Upgrade
You also need to ensure your PS5 is upgraded to the latest firmware before you can install an M.2 SSD drive, or at least to version 21.02-04.00.00. One of the main features of this software update is the ability to install and expand via an M.2 SSD storage. If you do not have your PS5 firmware upgraded to at least 21.02-4.00.00, you won’t be able to expand your storage using an M.2 SSD. You can quickly check for the latest firmware on your PS5 console by going to your PS5 home screen and selecting the ‘Settings’ icon (gear icon). Go to the ‘System’. Navigating to the ‘System Software’ and then choosing the ‘System Software Update and Settings’. Here, the system will automatically check for the update. If it is available, it will say ‘Update available,’ and you can click on it to go through the installation process.
Installing M.2 SSD
Once you’ve done that, you can navigate to your Settings > Storage > Installation Location and set where you wish to install your games moving forward. You can select your M.2 SSD Storage from the drop-down menu. The expansion slot with different sizes with the screw fit in 22110 by default
Recommended Compatible SSDs
There are numerous SSDs in the market that can work well with your PS5 console. The following are some of the best and recommended compatible SSDs for your PS5.
Western Digital (WD) Black SN850
This SSD is one of the best premium options for your PS5 console. The read speed is well beyond the recommended 5,500 MB/s and stands at 7,000 MB/s which can ‘almost’ match the internal read speed of the PS5 console. This SSD is also equipped with the latest Gen4 NVMe PCIe. This SSD comes with and without a built-in heatsink. So, you can check which one you prefer based on your needs. The WD Black comes in three sizes – 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB. It is also worth noting that Mark Cerny, the lead system architect of both PS4 and PS5, has endorsed WD Black SSD for the PS5 Console. If that doesn’t give you the confidence to buy this SSD, then nothing will!
Couple of awesome options for 7000MB/s, ended up putting my $$ down on this one. Going to be SWEEET!!! pic.twitter.com/6TuqPwK49x — Mark Cerny (@cerny) August 1, 2021
Segate FireCuda 530
Seagate FireCuda 530 is probably one of the best, if not THE best, option for your PS5 console. This SSD meets all the M.2 SSD requirements laid out by the Playstation. It has a read speed of up to 7,300 MB.s and has various storage capacities available. The Seagate FireCuda 530 is available in various sizes including 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB. 4TB actually is the maximum size your PS5 console can accommodate when it comes to SSDs. The SSD is equipped with the latest Gen4 NVMe PCIe SSD. The Seagate FireCuda also comes in two options – with a built-in heatsink and without it. The only downside of this SSD is the cost. As opposed to the FireCuda, this is where the WD Black is a reasonable option and excellent value for money. Not only does that meet the official SSD requirements (and beyond), but it is also much more affordable than the Seagate FireCuda 530.
Gigabyte AORUS Gen4 7000s
Our third and final option is the Gigabyte AORUS Gen4 7000s that comes equipped with the latest tech and fast speed. It houses the next-gen PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, just like the other two options. The SSD comes equipped with a nanocarbon coated aluminum heatsink and is available in two sizes – 1TB and 2TB.
