As a PS5™ gamer, you know how important storage space and performance are for your console. With Black Friday just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to find great deals on PS5 external hard drives. Whether you want to expand your game library or ensure smooth, fast performance, this guide can help you make an informed decision. Dive in to learn everything you need to grab the best Black Friday offers and maximize your PS5 experience.
Upgrading your PS5 with an external hard drive can significantly enhance how you manage your games and media files. The right hard drive doesn’t just add space—it can improve performance, loading times, and portability. But before you jump into the deals, it's important to understand what to look for in an external hard drive—especially one designed to meet the unique demands of PS5 gaming—so you can make the best decision for your gaming needs.
Key features to consider when purchasing a PS5 external hard drive.
Choosing the right external hard drive for your PS5 involves more than finding extra storage. Several key factors can make or break your gaming experience. Let’s explore what you need to know to select the external drive that enhances—not limits—your PS5 performance.
Learn how to use an external USB drive with a PS5.
Storage capacity.
The most obvious feature to consider when buying an external hard drive is storage capacity. With PS5 games taking up significant space (in fact, some titles exceed 100GB), having enough room for your library is crucial. If you’re a gamer who enjoys having multiple games installed and ready to play, you’ll want a hard drive that can handle your collection without forcing you to delete and re-download games.
A drive with at least 1TB of space is a good starting point for casual gamers. If you’re an avid player or share the console with family or friends, you might consider 2TB or more. This allows you to keep your favorite titles on hand with downloadable content (DLC), updates, or even media files, like game clips and screenshots. It’s important to balance space and cost, especially when Black Friday deals offer significant discounts.
Speed and performance.
In gaming, speed is everything. The type of PS5 external hard drive you choose directly affects how fast your games load and how smoothly they run. While the PS5’s internal SSD is designed for lightning-fast performance, an external hard drive’s speed can impact your gaming experience, especially when transferring data or playing PS4 games from the drive.
External drives come in two main types: hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). Hard drives are more affordable and offer larger storage capacities, but are slower than SSDs. SSDs provide much faster data transfer speeds, which means less time waiting for games to load or files to move. They are typically more reliable and durable because they don’t have moving parts.
For PS5 users, it’s important to understand that while you can’t play PS5 games directly from an external hard drive, you can store them there and transfer them back to the internal SSD when you want to play. A fast SSD will significantly reduce transfer times, getting you back into the game quicker.
Compatibility with a PS5.
Not all external hard drives on the market are compatible with PS5. Before purchasing, confirm the drive will work seamlessly with your console. The PS5 supports USB 3.0 or higher external drives, for faster data transfer and overall performance. Check the product specifications to ensure it meets these standards.
Additionally, the PS5 has limitations on how external drives can be used. You can store PS4 and PS5 games on an external drive, but only PS4 games can be played directly from the external drive. PS5 games must be transferred back to the internal storage before they can be played, which makes having a fast drive—preferably an SSD—an added convenience.
Making sure your external drive is plug-and-play with the PS5 means you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues or performance lags. Many reputable brands—like Seagate and others, produce external drives designed specifically for gaming—so look for drives optimized for console use.
Durability and design.
Durability is a key consideration if you plan to move your external hard drive between locations—like taking it to a friend’s house or storing it for safekeeping. Some external drives come with rugged designs and protect against drops, bumps, or accidental spills. Look for drives with shock-absorbing casings or weather-resistant features to keep your data safe during transport.
The design also plays a role in usability. Many external drives are designed to be slim and portable, making them easy to carry around. If aesthetics matter to you, there are models with sleek, minimalist designs that complement the futuristic PS5 look. Drives with built-in LED indicators can also help you quickly see the status of data transfers or power usage.
Why you should upgrade your PlayStation external hard drive.
Upgrading your PlayStation® external hard drive is one of the best moves you can make as a gamer. Whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated enthusiast, having enough storage and performance power is essential for optimal gaming.
As game file sizes continue to grow—thanks to increasingly complex graphics and features—it’s easy to find your PlayStation internal storage filling up faster than expected. Below, we’ll explore why upgrading your external hard drive can make a huge difference for your PlayStation setup.
Store more games without the hassle of constant deletions.
One of the most immediate benefits of upgrading your PlayStation storage with an additional external hard drive is the ability to store more games.
Many modern PlayStation games require anywhere from 50GB to over 100GB of storage space, especially if you’re downloading bonus content or expansion packs. This means that even the standard internal storage of a PlayStation can quickly become full, leaving you with a tough choice: delete some of your favorite games or constantly manage what’s installed.
You can significantly reduce the need to micromanage your storage by upgrading to a higher capacity external hard drive. A larger external drive allows you to keep more games readily available, so you can jump between your favorites without the frustration of uninstalling and reinstalling them. This is particularly useful if you play a mix of online and offline games, or share your console with other gamers in the household.
As new games are released, they tend to be larger, driven by more detailed worlds, high-definition graphics, and added features like DLC. Extra storage gives you the flexibility to install these large-scale games and enjoy them without worrying about space limitations.
Boost your console’s performance with faster load times.
While the PS5 internal SSD is already fast, an upgraded external hard drive can impact your console’s overall performance. Speed is particularly important when loading games, transferring files, and accessing saved data.
If you often switch between games or want to minimize load times for large open-world games, adding a PS5 external SSD can make a significant difference in your gameplay experience. Even if you’re only storing older PS4 games on your external hard drive, upgrading to a faster drive can improve how quickly they load and run.
While PS5 games need to be transferred to the internal SSD to be played, having a fast external drive to store and manage your PS4 library will ensure smoother transitions and less downtime.
Optimize your game library for better organization.
Another often overlooked benefit of upgrading with an external hard drive is organizing your game library. For instance, you could store all your multiplayer or frequently played games on the internal SSD for quick access while using the external hard drive for large single-player campaigns or less-used titles. By optimizing your storage this way, you can make the most out of the internal and external storage available to you.
Adding a PS5 external drive can also serve as a media hub. Besides games, you may store media files like screenshots, gameplay videos, and even music on your external drive, keeping your internal storage focused purely on games. This flexibility adds convenience and ensures your gaming setup remains clutter-free and easy to manage.
What are Sony PlayStation 5 external hard drive requirements?
When choosing an external hard drive for your PlayStation 5, it’s crucial that it meets Sony’s specific requirements. These guidelines guarantee the external drive works seamlessly with your console, preventing performance issues, data loss, and compatibility problems.
Below, we’ll break down five key requirements for external drives on the PS5 and explain why each is essential.
1. USB 3.0 or higher connectivity.
Sony requires any external hard drive used with the PS5 supports USB 3.0 or higher. This standard results in fast data transfer rates—that are vital for gaming—particularly when transferring large files or accessing stored data. USB 3.0 offers speeds of up to 5 Gbps, far exceeding the capabilities of older USB versions.
You’ll experience slow transfer speeds if your drive uses an older standard like USB 2.0, leading to frustratingly long load times, lag during gameplay (for PS4 games), and extended wait times when moving games between your internal and external storage. USB 3.0 or higher guarantees smoother performance, minimizing downtime and optimizing your gaming experience.
2. Minimum storage capacity of 250GB.
Sony mandates that external hard drives must have a minimum storage capacity of 250 GB. This requirement ensures that the external drive can handle the large file sizes typical of modern PS5 and PS4 games. Games, DLC, and updates can take up substantial space, so having less than 250GB wouldn’t provide much room for storing your game library.
If you use a drive with less than 250GB, the PS5 won’t recognize it, rendering it unusable. This ensures your external storage can hold a reasonable amount of data without constant file management. A drive below this capacity would fill up quickly, leading to a cluttered and inefficient storage setup.
3. Maximum storage capacity of 8TB
While the PS5 supports external hard drives with a maximum of 8TB, exceeding this limit can cause issues. Sony has set this maximum so the console can manage the drive efficiently without impacting performance. Larger drives may lead to slow system operations or data handling problems.
If you try to use an external hard drive larger than 8TB, the PS5 won’t recognize the additional storage beyond this limit. Sticking to the 8TB maximum allows ample space to store games, media, and other data while having the system operate smoothly without performance lags or crashes.
4. Formatting: exFAT or FAT32.
Sony requires external hard drives used with the PS5 to be formatted as exFAT or FAT32. These file systems are optimized for compatibility with gaming consoles and allow the PS5 to read and write data efficiently. If your external hard drive is formatted in an unsupported file system, such as NTFS (commonly used with Windows PCs), the PS5 won’t be able to recognize or access it.
This could result in data loss or an inability to transfer or play games. Reformatting your drive to exFAT or FAT32 promotes smooth data management and eliminates compatibility issues. Be aware that reformatting will erase any existing data on the drive, so back up important files before proceeding.
5. PS5 games can’t be played directly from the external drive.
One of the most important things to note is PS5 games cannot be played directly from an external hard drive. PS5 games are optimized to run on the console’s ultra-fast internal SSD, which provides the speed necessary for features like instant load times and smooth world rendering. While external drives offer great storage solutions, they don’t match the performance of the internal SSD.
However, you can store PS5 games on an external drive and transfer them back to the internal SSD when you’re ready to play. This can help free up valuable space on your console. On the other hand, PS4 games can be played directly from the external hard drive, making it an ideal solution for managing your PS4 game library without taking up internal storage space.
How to choose between an external hard drive vs. SSD for your PS5.
When expanding your PS5 storage, you’re likely debating between two main options: a hard drive or SSD. Both have their strengths, but the right choice depends on your specific gaming needs...whether you prioritize versatility, storage capacity, performance, or speed. Below, we’ll explore the situations where each option shines and help you decide on the best fit for your PS5 setup.
Versatility with the external hard drive flexibility.
External hard drives offer a lot of versatility, especially regarding storage space and cost. To expand your game library without spending too much, a hard drive is often the more affordable option. External hard drives typically come with larger storage capacities at lower price points than SSDs, making them ideal for gamers with extensive PS4 and PS5 game libraries.
For PS5 players, while you can’t play PS5 games directly from an external hard drive, you can store them there and transfer them back to the internal SSD when you’re ready to play. This gives you the ability to offload games you aren’t playing regularly, while keeping your internal SSD free for high-priority titles. Additionally, PS4 games can be played directly from an external hard drive, making it a versatile storage option for managing games across both platforms.
If you prioritize flexibility and large storage capacities without needing the fastest transfer speeds, an external hard drive might be the right choice.
For storage capacity, go big with external hard drives.
When it comes to sheer storage space, external hard drives have the upper hand. Hard drives are readily available in much larger capacities than SSDs, often up to 8TB. This makes them perfect for gamers who need to store a massive amount of data. If you keep a large game library with media files like gameplay videos or screenshots, an external hard drive offers more room for less money.
While an SSD can be fast, it may not be practical if you’re looking for bulk storage. For gamers who want to store a combination of PS4 games, media, and PS5 games that they’ll transfer back to the console when needed, the cost-effective storage of a hard drive is difficult to beat. A large external hard drive offers the best value if your main priority is ample space for a wide range of games, DLC, and updates.
Performance and speed: SSD for superior gaming performance.
If speed and performance are your top priorities, SSDs are the way to go. SSDs are faster, more reliable, and offer quicker data transfer rates than traditional hard drives. This makes them ideal for minimizing load times and transferring your PS5 games quickly to and from the internal SSD.
While PS5 games can’t be played directly from an external drive, SSDs make the transfer process much faster. PS4 games can be played directly from the drive—and an SSD significantly reduces load times—making your gameplay experience smoother. If you hate waiting for game transfers or want near-instant load times for older titles, an SSD offers a superior experience.
SSDs are more durable since they don’t have moving parts, making them more resistant to drops and physical damage. This added ruggedness is great for gamers on the go, protecting your data even if your drive experiences a bit of rough handling.
For a deep dive into the advantages of SSDs, check out our guide on the best SSD for PS5 and the best SSD for gaming.
When will Black Friday PS5 external hard drive and SSD deals start?
Black Friday is the best time of the year to snag incredible deals on PS5 external hard drives and SSDs. While the exact start date can vary, you can expect deals to start rolling out in the days leading up to Black Friday, with some retailers offering early promotions and extended sales throughout the week. If you’re planning to upgrade your storage, it’s worth watching out for these deals, as they can save you a significant amount on top-quality storage solutions.
To stay ahead of the rush and be sure you don’t miss out on the best offers, sign up to receive notifications when the latest PS5 external hard drive and SSD deals go live. This way, you’ll be among the first to know when the discounts drop, giving you a better chance to secure the perfect storage upgrade for your PlayStation at the best price.
Best Seagate PS5 external hard drives.
Seagate stands out as the industry leader for external hard drives when expanding your PlayStation 5 gaming experience. Known for their reliability and advanced technology, Seagate PS5 external hard drives are designed to keep your gaming library vast and easily accessible. Whether you’re looking to store more games, save on load times, or just have a reliable backup, Seagate has a range of options tailored to your needs.
Seagate game drive for PS5 HDD.
The game drive for PS5 hard drive offers ample space for your favorite games, allowing you to keep your gaming setup sleek and clutter-free. It’s perfect for those who want their game library ready to go without deleting old favorites.
Capacity options: 2TB, 4TB.
Seagate God of War Ragnarök limited edition game drive.
For fans of the God of War series, the Seagate God of War Ragnarök limited edition game drive offers a stylish and practical way to back up your digital content. Its sleek design and USB 3.0 connectivity ensure your games are always within reach, making it a perfect addition to any gaming setup.
Capacity options: Available in various sizes.
Why choose Seagate for your hard drive and SSD needs?
When selecting a hard drive or SSD for your PlayStation, Seagate stands out as the top choice. Our reputation for excellence is built on a foundation of deep industry expertise, reliable performance, and exceptional customer support. Here’s why Seagate is the best option for your gaming storage needs.
History and expertise.
Seagate has been a leading innovator in data storage for decades. With years of experience and a track record of groundbreaking technology, Seagate has established itself as a trusted name in the industry. Our extensive knowledge and history mean you’re getting a product designed with gamers in mind, built to handle the demands of modern gaming and deliver a seamless experience.
Reliability and performance.
When you choose a Seagate hard drive or SSD, you’re choosing reliability and top-notch performance. Seagate drives are engineered to offer dependable storage solutions that keep your games running smoothly and securely. Whether you’re expanding your PS5’s storage or seeking a fast and reliable backup solution, Seagate products are designed to meet the high standards of durability and efficiency.
Customer support and industry-leading warranties.
Seagate takes pride in offering outstanding customer support and industry-leading warranties. Our dedicated support team is ready to assist with any questions or issues, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. Plus, Seagate’s comprehensive warranties reflect our commitment to quality, giving you confidence that your investment is protected.
Seagate hard drives and SSDs are the clear choice for a trusted and superior storage solution for your PlayStation. With their rich history, proven reliability, and exceptional support, you can be confident that you’re investing in the best for your gaming setup. Explore Seagate offerings and see why they are the industry leader in storage solutions.
