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How to install a PS5 SSD in 2026

read original get WD_BLACK SN850P NVMe SSD for PS5 → more articles
Why This Matters

A practical how-to on adding an M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD to the PS5, framed around ballooning AAA game install sizes and Sony's move away from physical discs. It clarifies that a proper upgrade won't void the console's warranty, which remains a common consumer concern.

Key Takeaways
Worth a Look

WD_BLACK SN850P NVMe SSD for PS5 — This is the officially licensed PS5 expansion drive, so it drops straight into the console's M.2 slot with its heatsink already attached—no thermal pad guesswork. It's a clean way to stop the endless uninstall-and-redownload cycle the article describes as modern AAA games balloon in size.

See WD_BLACK SN850P NVMe SSD for PS5 on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.

Expanding your PlayStation 5's storage with the best PS5 SSDs in 2026 is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Modern AAA games are only getting bigger and more demanding, which will saturate your console's internal storage system in no time. With Sony's decision to eliminate physical game discs, the need for a high-speed M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD will be even more important in the future. Juggling a large number of games with just the console's internal storage will be a headache.

Investing in a quality M.2 SSD ensures you do not have to constantly go through the frustration of uninstalling games to make space for new ones or subsequently having to redownload hundreds of gigabytes to replay a previous game. Do not let your console's storage limitations hold you back from playing upcoming AAA releases.

Upgrading your PlayStation 5 with an M.2 SSD is a safe and effective way to expand your storage. It will not void the warranty, provided you use a compatible drive and take care not to damage your console physically during the installation process. Rest assured, as long as you proceed carefully and avoid any accidental damage, your warranty will remain intact. If you have already purchased, or are considering purchasing, an M.2 SSD for your PlayStation 5, let our step-by-step guide take you through every part of the installation process.

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PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSD with a minimum sequential read of 5,500 MB/s and a built-in or aftermarket heatsink

Sandisk WD Black SN850X 2TB: $369.99 at Amazon The WD Black SN850X is the best SSD for your PlayStation 5. The PCIe 4.0 drive delivers sequential read and write speeds up to 7,300 MB/s and 6,600 MB/s, respectively.

Save 39% ($250) Samsung 990 Pro 2TB: was $639.99 now $389.99 at Amazon The Samsung 990 Pro is a very formidable PCIe 4.0 SSD for your PlayStation 5. The drive flaunts sequential read and write speeds that top out at 7,450 MB/s and 6,900 MB/s, respectively.

Sandisk WD Blue SN5100: $279.99 at Amazon The WD Blue SN5100 is the best budget drive money can buy for your PlayStation 5. The PCIe 4.0 SSD's sequential performance reaches 7,100 MB/s reads and 6,700 MB/s writes.

1. Prepare your PlayStation 5 for installation.

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