Best Storage Expansion For Ps5 – Top Picks & Guide

Does your PlayStation 5 ever flash that dreaded “Storage Full” message right when you’re about to dive into a new epic adventure? It’s a frustrating feeling! Modern games take up huge amounts of space, and those internal SSDs fill up faster than you can say “download complete.” You want to keep all your favorite titles installed and ready to play, but the options for upgrading your PS5 storage can feel overwhelming.

Choosing the right expansion isn’t just about getting more gigabytes. You need to find a drive that is fast enough for seamless gaming, compatible with Sony’s strict requirements, and fits your budget. Getting this wrong means wasted money or slow load times. This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what you need to look for, from NVMe SSD specifications to installation tips, making sure you pick the perfect upgrade every time.

Keep reading to transform your storage woes into storage wins, ensuring your PS5 is always ready for action!

Top Storage Expansion For Ps5 Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed Storage Expansion for PS5 Consoles, up to 7,300MB/s, with heatsink - WDBBYV0020BNC-WRSN
  • Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles[4] so you can easily install and play with no concern of compatibility. [4]For PlayStation 5 system software compatibility, please visit the official WD_BLACK site.
  • With capacities ranging from 1TB to 8TB[1], your PS5 console has the additional space to store up to 200 games[3] (8TB model) [1]1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = one trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment. [3] Number of games based on a 36GB average per game. The number of games will vary based on file size, formatting, other programs, and factors.
  • Experience uninterrupted gameplay with a brand-new, optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console for an easy, worry-free installation into the M.2 slot.
  • Play directly from the drive and eliminate the need to transfer or delete games from your console with tested and approved storage for your PS5 console[4].
  • Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s[2], giving you seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times. [2]1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.
Bestseller No. 2
WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed Storage Expansion for PS5 Consoles, up to 7,300MB/s, with heatsink - WDBBYV0010BNC-WRSN
  • Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles[4] so you can easily install and play with no concern of compatibility. [4]For PlayStation 5 system software compatibility, please visit the official WD_BLACK site.
  • With capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB[1], your PS5 console has the additional space to store up to 200 games[3] (8TB model) [1]1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = one trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment. [3] Number of games based on a 36GB average per game. The number of games will vary based on file size, formatting, other programs, and factors.
  • Experience uninterrupted gameplay with a brand-new, optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console for an easy, worry-free installation into the M.2 slot.
  • Play directly from the drive and eliminate the need to transfer or delete games from your console with tested and approved storage for your PS5 console[4].
  • Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s[2], giving you seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times. [2]1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.
Bestseller No. 3
YOTUO Portable External Hard Drive Storage Expansion Mobile HDD USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, Desktop, Laptop, PS4, PS5, Xbox One X/S, Xbox 360, Xbox Series X/S, Office & Game (Black, 500GB)
  • 【Plug and play for home and office equipment】YOTUO HDD01 USB 3.0 external hard drive. Suitable for Windows XP/2003/Vista/7/8/10/11, Linux, Mac OS system. As well as laptops, desktop computers, PS4, PS5, XBOX 360, XBOX ONE, XBOX series X/S and other office equipment and gaming equipment. The product is plug-and-play when used in Windows. For Mac users, first format the drive and select the ExFat format.
  • 【The first time you use this product in your gaming device, you will need to install an external hard disk into your gaming device】XBOX Simply follow the steps prompted by the system pop-up window to use it in the device. PS5 may receive the message "This USB drive's file system is unsupported" when plugging in an external hard disk and may display an incorrect storage capacity. There is no need to worry. You can simply find "USB Storage Device" in the "Settings" screen, follow the steps prompted by the system to install the drive and format it, and it will be ready for use. PS4, please find "USB Storage Device" in "Device" interface in "Settings".
  • 【Gaming device manufacturer restrictions for different generations of games】Due to restrictions imposed by gaming device manufacturers, the PS5 can read and run PS4 games directly from an external hard drive, but cannot run PS5 games directly from an external hard drive; PS5 games on the external hard drive need to be moved to the device in order to run. Similarly, the Xbox X Series and Xbox S Series can only run Xbox One games directly from an external hard drive.
  • 【Patented silicone sleeve protects hard drive】 The patented silicone sleeve inside wraps around the hard disk. It protects the hard disk more effectively against shocks and drops.
  • 【About the discrepancy between the nominal capacity and the actual capacity】The actual capacity of the hard disk is not the same as the nominal capacity because the measurement method (binary) used by the hard disk manufacturer is different from the measurement method (decimal) used by the computer system. This is normal.
Bestseller No. 4
YOTUO Portable External Hard Drive Storage Expansion Mobile HDD USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, Desktop, Laptop, PS4, PS5, Xbox One X/S, Xbox 360, Xbox Series X/S, Office & Game (White, 1TB)
  • 【Plug and play for home and office equipment】YOTUO HDD01 USB 3.0 external hard drive. Suitable for Windows XP/2003/Vista/7/8/10/11, Linux, Mac OS system. As well as laptops, desktop computers, PS4, PS5, XBOX 360, XBOX ONE, XBOX series X/S and other office equipment and gaming equipment. The product is plug-and-play when used in Windows, Mac.
  • 【The first time you use this product in your gaming device, you will need to install an external hard disk into your gaming device】XBOX Simply follow the steps prompted by the system pop-up window to use it in the device. PS5 may receive the message "This USB drive's file system is unsupported" when plugging in an external hard disk and may display an incorrect storage capacity. There is no need to worry. You can simply find "USB Storage Device" in the "Settings" screen, follow the steps prompted by the system to install the drive and format it, and it will be ready for use. PS4, please find "USB Storage Device" in "Device" interface in "Settings".
  • 【Gaming device manufacturer restrictions for different generations of games】Due to restrictions imposed by gaming device manufacturers, the PS5 can read and run PS4 games directly from an external hard drive, but cannot run PS5 games directly from an external hard drive; PS5 games on the external hard drive need to be moved to the device in order to run. Similarly, the Xbox X Series and Xbox S Series can only run Xbox One games directly from an external hard drive.
  • 【Patented silicone sleeve protects hard drive】 The patented silicone sleeve inside wraps around the hard disk. It protects the hard disk more effectively against shocks and drops.
  • 【About the discrepancy between the nominal capacity and the actual capacity】The actual capacity of the hard disk is not the same as the nominal capacity because the measurement method (binary) used by the hard disk manufacturer is different from the measurement method (decimal) used by the computer system. This is normal.
Bestseller No. 5
WD_BLACK 4TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed Storage Expansion for PS5 Consoles, up to 7,300MB/s, with heatsink - WDBBYV0040BNC-WRSN,Black
  • The ONLY Officially licensed 4TB M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles[4] so you can easily install and play with no concern of compatibility. [4]For PlayStation 5 system software compatibility, please visit the official WD_BLACK site.
  • With capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB[1], your PS5 console has the additional space to store up to 200 games[3] (8TB model) [1]1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = one trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment. [3] Number of games based on a 36GB average per game. The number of games will vary based on file size, formatting, other programs, and factors.
  • Experience uninterrupted gameplay with a brand-new, optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console for an easy, worry-free installation into the M.2 slot.
  • Play directly from the drive and eliminate the need to transfer or delete games from your console with tested and approved storage for your PS5 console[4].
  • Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s[2], giving you seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times. [2]1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.
Bestseller No. 6
fanxiang S660 PCIe 4.0 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD for PS5 with Heatsink, Up to 5000MB/s, Internal Gaming SSD NAND SLC Cache Suitable for PS5 Enthusiasts, Technology Enthusiasts, IT Professionals
  • Efficient Performance: With speeds reaching 5000MB/s, the PCIE 4.0 1TB NVMe SSD is perfectly compatible with the PS5, ensuring swift game launches for an immersive gaming experience
  • Ample Storage Expansion: The S660 M.2 SSD offers storage capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB, eliminating concerns about game storage. Effortlessly expand your gaming storage and indulge in a plethora of gaming delights
  • Efficient Cooling Design: The unique heatsink design ensures the S660 NVMe 1TB SSD operates at low temperatures during prolonged and intensive usage, providing a reliable memory expansion for your PS5
  • Versatile Connectivity: The S660 Internal SSD 1TB not only delivers optimal storage for the PS5 but also seamlessly connects to various platforms, including PC. It serves as a versatile solution, offering robust support for various scenarios
  • Quality Assurance: Purchase the S660 NVMe 1TB SSD and enjoy a 3-year quality assurance. Our professional after-sales support team is always on call. Shop with confidence and enjoy lasting peace of mind
Bestseller No. 7
Fanxiang 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 Internal Gaming SSD for PS5, Up to 4800 MB/s, 3D NAND SLC Cache Solid State Drive Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops S690Q
  • Efficient Performance: M.2 SSD 1TB adopts PCIe Gen4 x4 technology and is compatible with NVMe1.4 protocol, With speeds reaching 4800MB/s, the PCIE 4.0 1TB NVMe SSD is perfectly compatible with the PS5, ensuring swift game launches for an immersive gaming experience
  • Ample Storage Expansion: The S690Q M.2 SSD offers storage capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB, eliminating concerns about game storage. Effortlessly expand your gaming storage and indulge in a plethora of gaming delights
  • Fast Heat Dissipation: The graphite heat dissipation sticker ensures NVMe 1TB SSD operates at low temperatures during prolonged and intensive usage, providing a reliable memory expansion for your PS5
  • Wide Compatibility: The Internal SSD 1TB not only provides optimal storage expansion for PS5, but also can be used on various platforms including desktops and laptops. Excellent compatibility provides a versatile solution, providing strong support for various scenarios, ensuring work efficiency and gaming experience
  • 3-Year Service: Our 1TB NVMe SSD come with a 3 years after-sales service and lifetime technical support. If you have any questions, please contact us and we will sincerely and professionally solve the problem for you
Bestseller No. 8
Tendak External Hard Drive Enclosure for PS5, 10Gbps USB 3.0 SSD Storage Expansion, Up to 2TB M.2 Hard Drive Enclosure, Suports NVME/SATA SSD Size 2230/2242/2260/2280 - SSD NOT Included
  • Storage Expansion for PS5: This product is an external m.2 hard disk enclosure specially designed for PS5 consoles, supporting NVMe and SATA protocols.It can accommodate hard drives of 2280,2260,2242, and 2230 sizes, and can increase the storage capacity of PS5 consoles up to 2TB. (Please note: SSD hard drive is not included.)
  • Ultra-fast transfer: The hard drive enclosure USB3.0 port delivers 10 Gbps of stable data transfer and can transfer 1GB of files in seconds, much faster than legacy USB 2.0.
  • Expand Storage Space: M.2 SSD enclosure can be used to store your games when you plug in the hard drive, saving you more storage space on your PS5 console, while also allowing you to play PS4 games directly from an external hard drive.
  • External Hard Drive Enclosure: M.2 to USB hard drive enclosure features an aluminum top and plastic bottom to ensure portability and good heat dissipation. There is no need to add additional power to the hard drive enclosure, just open the cover, insert the hard drive and secure it to connect to your PS5.
  • Plug and Play: No additional driver or software is required, insert the SSD into the hard disk enclosure and then insert the hard disk enclosure into the PS4/PS5 console, then it can be used normally.

Your Guide to Growing Your PS5 Game Library: Storage Expansion Secrets

Does your PlayStation 5 feel cramped? Are you constantly deleting amazing games to make room for new ones? You need more storage! Expanding your PS5’s space is easier than you think, but choosing the right option requires a little know-how. This guide helps you pick the best storage upgrade so you can download everything you want.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for PS5 storage, some features matter more than others. Focus on these key areas:

  • Compatibility: The PS5 needs a specific type of storage called an NVMe SSD. Make sure the drive you buy is listed as compatible with the PS5.
  • Speed (Read/Write): This is crucial! The PS5 runs games directly from this drive. You need fast speeds to avoid long loading screens. Look for speeds of 5,500 MB/s (Megabytes per second) or higher. Faster speeds mean better performance.
  • Capacity: How much space do you need? Drives come in sizes like 1TB, 2TB, or even 4TB. Think about how many big games (like Call of Duty or Horizon Forbidden West) you want installed at once.
  • Heatsink Included: Fast drives get very hot. A heatsink is a metal piece that cools the drive down. Some drives come with one already attached, which makes installation much easier.

Important Materials and Build Quality

Storage expansion for the PS5 usually involves an internal NVMe Solid State Drive (SSD). The quality of the internal components directly affects how long the drive lasts and how fast it stays.

NAND Flash Type: Most quality drives use TLC (Triple-Level Cell) NAND flash memory. This is reliable and fast. Avoid older QLC drives for primary gaming storage if possible, as they can sometimes slow down after heavy use.

Heatsink Material: A good heatsink is usually made of aluminum. This metal pulls heat away efficiently. If you buy a drive without a built-in heatsink, you must buy a separate one. Poor cooling can cause the drive to slow down or overheat, which reduces its quality over time.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

What makes a drive great, and what makes it a headache?

Improving Quality:
  • High Sequential Read Speeds: Speeds over 7,000 MB/s offer the best future-proofing.
  • DRAM Cache: Drives with dedicated DRAM memory manage data better and maintain speed during intense gaming sessions.
  • Good Warranty: A five-year warranty shows the manufacturer trusts their product.
Reducing Quality:
  • Using a Low-Speed Drive: If the speed is below the PS5’s minimum requirement (around 5,500 MB/s), the console will not let you install PS5 games on it, or performance will suffer.
  • Lack of Cooling: If the drive overheats, the PS5 protects itself by slowing the drive down. This means longer load times.
  • Cheap, Unbranded Drives: These often have exaggerated speed claims and break much sooner.

User Experience and Use Cases

Once you install the new storage, the user experience becomes seamless. You won’t notice the difference between the internal storage and the new SSD—that’s the goal!

Use Cases:
  • The Power Gamer: If you play huge open-world games that take up 100GB or more each, you should aim for a 2TB or 4TB drive immediately. You will never have to worry about space.
  • The Casual Player: If you only keep three or four games installed at a time, a 1TB drive might be enough to start.
  • PS4 Game Storage: Remember, you can store PS4 games on an external USB hard drive, but PS5 games *must* be installed on the internal drive or the new compatible NVMe SSD. This guide focuses on the internal upgrade needed for true PS5 game expansion.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About PS5 Storage Expansion

Q: Can I just plug in any external hard drive?

A: No. You can store PS4 games on an external USB drive, but you must install and run PS5 games from the internal storage or a compatible internal NVMe SSD upgrade.

Q: What is the minimum speed the PS5 requires for an internal SSD?

A: The PS5 requires a minimum sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s. Drives below this might not work for PS5 games.

Q: Does the new SSD need a heatsink?

A: Yes, absolutely. The high speeds generate a lot of heat. A good heatsink is required to keep the drive running fast and prevent damage.

Q: Are M.2 SSDs the same as NVMe SSDs?

A: M.2 is the shape/connector type. NVMe is the protocol (the language it speaks) that allows for super-fast speeds. You need an M.2 NVMe SSD for the PS5.

Q: How hard is the installation process?

A: It is moderately easy. You need to remove the side panel of the PS5 and unscrew a small cover. Be gentle, and always turn the console off and unplug it first.

Q: How much storage should I aim for?

A: 2TB is the sweet spot for most people right now. It gives you lots of room without being excessively expensive.

Q: What happens if I buy a drive without a heatsink?

A: You must buy and attach a separate heatsink before installing it. Installing a bare drive risks overheating and poor performance.

Q: Will the new drive affect my warranty?

A: Opening the console to install the drive *can* void the warranty if you damage something during the process. However, installing the drive correctly should not automatically void the warranty.

Q: Do I need to format the new drive after installing it?

A: Yes. After you physically install the drive, the PS5 automatically recognizes it and guides you through the necessary formatting process before you can use it.

Q: Can I move games back and forth between the internal and new SSD?

A: Yes. Once formatted, the PS5 treats both the internal drive and the new SSD exactly the same. You can move games between them easily through the settings menu.