Best SSD for PS5

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A compatible internal M.2 SSD expands PS5 storage and can run PS5 games directly. Start with a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe drive that meets Sony’s size and cooling requirements, then choose the capacity and heatsink that fit your budget. 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 27, 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.

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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.

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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 compatibility rules

Sony specifies M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4, 250GB–8TB and a suitable cooling structure, and recommends at least 5,500 MB/s sequential read. The complete drive and heatsink must fit the expansion bay.

Measure the entire assembly

Sony specifies a maximum 25 mm width and 11.25 mm total thickness, including the heatsink, with limits above and below the board. Manufacturer heatsink models simplify the selection but verify the exact SKU.

Internal and external storage differ

PS5 games can run from compatible internal M.2 storage. USB extended storage can hold PS5 games, but they must be transferred back to console or M.2 storage before playing.

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

Is the fastest advertised SSD automatically the best?

No. Capacity, price, a compatible heatsink and reliable installation are important. Sony notes that performance can differ even above its recommended sequential speed.

Do I need a heatsink?

Sony requires effective heat dissipation. Choose a compatible built-in heatsink or install an appropriate cooling structure that fits.

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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