Best SSD for PS5 (NVMe Gen4)

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Choose an internal PS5 SSD by interface, capacity and the size of its complete cooling assembly. These Gen4 options include a manufacturer heatsink in the specified 2TB versions. Our top picks include Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB, WD_BLACK SN850X with Heatsink 2TB and Samsung 980 PRO with Heatsink 2TB.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

Reviewed October 31, 2026 · Research-based buying guide

01Best OverallSamsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB

Samsung identifies the 2TB heatsink model as PS5 compatible. The integrated heatsink makes it a straightforward option for expanding internal game storage.

Check Price at AmazonRead full review ↓
02Best AlternativeWD_BLACK SN850X with Heatsink 2TB

The 2TB SN850X heatsink model is listed for PS5 by its manufacturer and gives a useful amount of storage for a substantial game library.

Check Price at AmazonRead full review ↓
03Best If DiscountedSamsung 980 PRO with Heatsink 2TB

Samsung’s earlier 980 PRO heatsink model remains a practical option when the correct version is available at a better price.

Check Price at AmazonRead full review ↓

Disclosure: We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Amazon links lead to search results; check the exact model, bundle, price and seller before buying.

How We Selected Our Picks

We compared manufacturer documentation, compatibility, features and the needs of this particular setup. This guide is based on product research; it does not claim hands-on testing or independent performance measurements.

Detailed Recommendations

Best Overall

Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB Check Price at Amazon

Best for: Best Overall
Type / connectionPCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 2280
Key featuresIntegrated heatsink; up to 7,450 MB/s manufacturer read

Samsung identifies the 2TB heatsink model as PS5 compatible. The integrated heatsink makes it a straightforward option for expanding internal game storage.

Select the heatsink version and check the seller’s exact model number. Rated PC benchmark speeds are not a promise of equivalent in-game gains.

Pros
  • Integrated heatsink; up to 7,450 MB/s manufacturer read
  • PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 2280
Consider
  • Select the heatsink version and check the seller’s exact model number. Rated PC benchmark speeds are not a promise of equivalent in-game gains.
Best Alternative

WD_BLACK SN850X with Heatsink 2TB Check Price at Amazon

Best for: Best Alternative
Type / connectionPCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 2280
Key featuresFactory heatsink; 2TB

The 2TB SN850X heatsink model is listed for PS5 by its manufacturer and gives a useful amount of storage for a substantial game library.

The bare drive and heatsink model are different listings. Check capacity, dimensions and the specific SKU before ordering.

Pros
  • Factory heatsink; 2TB
  • PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 2280
Consider
  • The bare drive and heatsink model are different listings. Check capacity, dimensions and the specific SKU before ordering.
Best If Discounted

Samsung 980 PRO with Heatsink 2TB Check Price at Amazon

Best for: Best If Discounted
Type / connectionPCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 2280
Key featuresFactory heatsink; 2TB

Samsung’s earlier 980 PRO heatsink model remains a practical option when the correct version is available at a better price.

Availability varies and the bare version requires a separately fitted compatible cooling structure. Compare actual prices and check the model.

Pros
  • Factory heatsink; 2TB
  • PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe M.2 2280
Consider
  • Availability varies and the bare version requires a separately fitted compatible cooling structure. Compare actual prices and check the model.

How to Choose

Follow Sony’s requirements

Sony specifies PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe, 250GB–8TB, an effective cooling structure and recommends at least 5,500 MB/s sequential read. Supported lengths include 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 and 22110.

Measure the complete heatsink assembly

Sony allows a maximum 25 mm width and 11.25 mm total thickness, with separate limits above and below the board. A standard 2280 bare drive does not guarantee its heatsink will fit.

Plan installation and capacity

Update console software, follow Sony’s model-specific instructions and shut down and unplug the console. Formatting erases existing SSD data. Pick capacity by library needs and verify the exact heatsink SKU.

Quick Comparison

ProductBest forKey featureCheck price
Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TBBest OverallIntegrated heatsink; up to 7,450 MB/s manufacturer readCheck Price at Amazon
WD_BLACK SN850X with Heatsink 2TBBest AlternativeFactory heatsink; 2TBCheck Price at Amazon
Samsung 980 PRO with Heatsink 2TBBest If DiscountedFactory heatsink; 2TBCheck Price at Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the PS5 only accept M.2 2280 drives?

No. Sony also lists 2230, 2242, 2260 and 22110. The interface, performance recommendation and full heatsink dimensions still matter.

Can I play PS5 games directly from external USB storage?

No. Compatible internal M.2 storage can run PS5 games; games stored on USB extended storage must be moved back before play.

Our Verdict

Best Overall
Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TBIntegrated heatsink; up to 7,450 MB/s manufacturer read
Check Price at Amazon
Best Alternative
WD_BLACK SN850X with Heatsink 2TBFactory heatsink; 2TB
Check Price at Amazon
Best If Discounted
Samsung 980 PRO with Heatsink 2TBFactory heatsink; 2TB
Check Price at Amazon

Choose the model that suits your device, setup and budget, and verify the exact version before ordering.

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