Best SSDs for PS5 Slim

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The PS5 Slim uses a compatible internal M.2 NVMe SSD for additional game storage. Choose a Gen4 x4 drive with a correctly sized cooling structure, and confirm that the exact listing includes the heatsink you expect. Our top picks include WD_BLACK SN850X with Heatsink 2TB , Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB , Samsung 980 PRO with Heatsink 2TB.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

Reviewed October 30, 2026 · Research-based buying guide

01Best OverallWD_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 ↓
02Best AlternativeSamsung 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 ↓
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

WD_BLACK SN850X with Heatsink 2TB Check Price at Amazon

Best for: Best Overall
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 Alternative

Samsung 990 PRO with Heatsink 2TB Check Price at Amazon

Best for: Best Alternative
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 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 M.2 requirements

Sony specifies PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe, 250GB to 8TB and an effective cooling structure; it recommends sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s.

Measure the heatsink

The maximum overall width is 25 mm and total thickness 11.25 mm, subject to Sony’s limits above and below the board. Check the assembled drive, not just the bare SSD.

Choose storage for the intended use

Compatible M.2 storage can run PS5 games directly. External USB extended storage can hold PS5 games, but they must be moved back to console or M.2 storage before play.

Quick Comparison

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a bare SSD need a heatsink?

Sony requires effective heat dissipation. Select a compatible built-in heatsink or add a suitable cooling structure that fits the console.

Does a faster advertised SSD guarantee faster games?

No. Manufacturer sequential figures do not guarantee a corresponding difference in game loading or frame rate.

Our Verdict

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