What Kind of SSDs Work in the PlayStation 5 and Why You May Want to Consider Alternatives

When it comes to upgrading the storage in your PlayStation 5 (PS5), Sony has set some strict criteria for the types of SSDs that work. This limitation has stirred debates among gamers and enthusiasts. Let's dive into the details of the PS5's custom SSD and other storage options you might consider.

The Official PS5 SSD Criteria

According to Sony, the PS5 is equipped with a custom 825GB NVMe SSD. As for compatibility, Sony has provided a short list of SSDs that are officially supported. These drives are typically high-performance and often come with a price tag of around ￡200 for a 1TB model. They offer read speeds of 5500 MB/s or faster and require specific physical characteristics, including their own cooling solution. While these SSDs offer excellent performance, Sony has left themselves open for potential liabilities by explicitly stating that issues are 'your fault.'

External Storage Solutions

Unlike the internal SSD, external storage options like USB 3.2 HDDs can provide a more cost-effective and flexible solution. Here are a few reasons why an external storage setup might be a better choice:

Cost: High-performance SSDs that work with the PS5 can be quite expensive. An external storage solution can offer much better value for money. Flexibility: With an external drive, you can choose the capacity and decide when to transfer games to and from the system storage. Overclocking Potential: If you want to push the limits on read/write speeds, external SSDs like the Firecuda 530 can offer speeds rivaling or even surpassing the PS5's internal SSD.

While the PS5 can technically use SATA SSDs via its USB port if the internal storage is full, this is not recommended due to potential performance issues and the inconvenience of frequent transfers.

Recommended Alternatives for PS5 Storage

For those seeking an alternative to the officially supported SSDs, these are some of the best options:

WD_Black SN850: Known for its high reliability and performance, the SN850 can provide an upgrade for your PS5.

Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus: This SSD is noted for its fast read/write speeds, making it a solid choice for gaming enthusiasts.

Crucial P5 Plus: Also featuring high performance, this SSD is a reliable option for PS5 users.

Samsung 980 Pro: Widely considered a top-tier SSD, the 980 Pro offers excellent performance and reliability.

Corsair MP600 Pro: With its affordability and decent performance, this SSD is a budget-friendly option for upgrade enthusiasts.

WD_Black P50 Game Drive: Designed specifically for gaming, this drive offers both performance and durability.

Conclusion

The PS5 includes an 825GB NVMe SSD, which is not expandable via an M.2 slot on the console. But if you're looking for a more flexible and cost-effective solution, consider external storage options like USB 3.2 HDDs. These can provide the same performance benefits as high-end SSDs but at a lower cost and with more flexibility. Before making any upgrades or decisions, it's always a good idea to consider your budget and personal preferences.