Learn How to Install an M.2 SSD into a PS5
Upgrade your PS5 with an M.2 SSD for faster load times, increased storage, and optimal performance. Learn how to install an M.2 PS5 SSD to enhance your gaming experience!
Upgrading your PS5™ storage with an M.2 SSD is a game-changer, providing faster load times and more space for your favorite games. Whether you’re running out of room or just want to boost your console’s performance, this guide will walk you through the process of adding an M.2 SSD to your PS5. We'll cover everything you need, from choosing the right SSD to safely completing the installation. No need to worry—this straightforward upgrade is within reach, even if you're not a tech expert. Let’s get started!
Choosing the right M.2 SSD is crucial when upgrading yourPlayStation® 5 experience. Here are some things to considerwhen looking for an M.2 SSD for your PlayStation.
Your M.2 SSD needs to meet certain requirements to enhance your PS5 storage. The PS5 only supports NVMe SSDs designed for high-speed data transfer. Confirm your SSD is of the M.2 2230 or 2280 size because these dimensions fit perfectly within the console expansion slot.
Additionally, confirm the SSD meets Sony® compatibility standards, which include a PCIe Gen 4.0 interface. This is essential for achieving the high-performance levels gamers expect from their PS5.
Be aware of the following key specifications when selecting an M.2 SSD for a PS5:
We recommend Seagate FireCuda® 530R with Heatsink SSD as a top choice for PS5 owners for an outstanding combination of performance, reliability, and advanced technology. This M.2 SSD is designed for gaming, featuring blazing-fast read speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s, which makes loading times nearly instantaneous.
With capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, the FireCuda 530R provides ample space for your growing game library. Also, its integrated heatsink helps maintain optimal temperature levels, supporting consistent performance during long gaming sessions. Elevate your gaming experience with the FireCuda 530R and enjoy the power of enhanced storage.
It’s important to complete certain prep work that will lead to a successful and seamless upgrade when installing an internal SSD for PS5.
Here’s how to get ready:
Backing up your game saves and data is crucial before installing a new SSD. While installation is generally safe, unexpected issues can arise, potentially leading to data loss. To avoid losing your precious game progress and personal settings, take a few moments to back up your data.
If you have a PlayStation® Plus subscription, you can take advantage of the PS5 integrated cloud storage to safely back up your game saves online. Alternatively, consider transferring your data to an external USB drive for added convenience. This precaution guarantees you can restore your games and settings if anything goes wrong during the SSD installation process.
Keeping your PS5 system software updated is crucial to promote compatibility and maximize the performance of your new M.2 SSD. Follow these steps to check for and install any available updates:
Keeping your system software updated helps your PS5 recognize your new SSD and allows you to take full advantage of its performance capabilities.
If you’re replacing an existing M.2 SSD, knowing how to remove it safely is important. Here’s a quick guide to help you through the process:
Now that you’ve backed up your data, confirmed you have the latest PS5 system software, and removed the existing M.2 SSD, it’s time to install Seagate M.2 NVMe SSD into your PS5. Carefully follow these steps for a successful upgrade:
Before you begin, organize the necessary tools. A small phillips head screwdriver will be necessary to reach the M.2 slot and fasten the SSD securely. It’s also advisable to have a clean, static-free workspace. Consider using an anti-static mat or wrist strap to prevent static electricity from damaging your console or SSD. Clear any clutter from your workspace to avoid losing small parts and be sure you have enough room to maneuver comfortably.
Safety is paramount when working with electronic devices. Make sure your PS5 is powered off. Press and hold the power button until you hear a second beep, indicating it’s off. Disconnect all cables—including the power cable and HDMI—to ensure there’s no risk of electrical shock or damage during the installation process.
With your PS5 powered off and unplugged, access the M.2 expansion slot. Carefully remove the PS5 cover by following these steps:
With access to the M.2 expansion slot, insert your FireCuda 530R SSD:
To secure the SSD so it remains in place during operation, fasten it with screws:
With the SSD securely in place, reattach the PS5 cover:
Now that the installation is complete, you can power on your PS5:
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed an M.2 SSD into your PS5, unlocking the potential for expanded storage and enhanced gaming experiences.
Check out this video tutorial for a visual walkthrough of the installation process.
After successfully installing your M.2 SSD into your PS5, there are a few important post-installation steps to have your new storage ready for action.
Here’s what to do next:
You must format your newly installed SSD before you can begin using it. This process prepares the drive for use with your PS5. Here’s how to do it:
Formatting may take a few moments, but once it’s complete, your SSD will be ready to use.
With your SSD formatted, you can now redownload your games and apps from your library. Here’s how to do this step:
You can also install games directly from the PlayStation® store by selecting the game and pressing the Download button.
If you have existing games on your PS5 internal storage that you want to transfer to your new M.2 SSD, follow these simple steps:
You can repeat this process for any games you wish to move, freeing up space on your internal storage for additional downloads.
To help your SSD continue to perform optimally, consider these maintenance tips:
These Seagate SSD post-installation and maintenance tips will help provide the best PS5 gaming experience.
To match the speed and power of the PS5, compatibility starts with a PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD with a sequential read speed of 5500MB/s or faster. The PS5 M.2 expansion slot handles SSDs with a capacity range of 250GB up to 4TB. The most common compatible form factor size is 2280, but the PS5 M.2 expansion slot also takes sizes including 2230, 2243, 2260, and up to as high as 22110.
To maintain your M.2 SSD’s optimal speed, it must run at an optimal temperature. Operating at full speed, an M.2 SSD generates heat. When that heat gets high enough to damage the game drive, an M.2 SSD will activate thermal throttling to prevent damage. This will protect the drive and promote its longevity, but also slow down processing capabilities.
For this reason, PlayStation® recommends using a cooling structure to effectively manage SSD temperatures.
Head to Sony® PlayStation® for a full breakdown of M.2 SSD requirements for upgrading your PS5.
Storage capacity and speed. It’s no secret that PS5 games are faster, better, and bigger, and a PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD increases your available storage space while maintaining the next-gen speeds you expect from PS5.
That means more games, more apps, and less time waiting. Easily move your games between the internal PS5 storage, a connected USB extended storage device, and an installed M.2 SSD storage.
Seagate FireCuda 530R with Heatsink is a high-speed PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD that PS5 users can install to upgrade the storage capacity of their PS5 console or PS5 Digital Edition console.
Equipped with a capacity of up to 4TB and sequential read speed of up to 7300MB/s, FireCuda 530R comes ready to play. Our heatsink—developed in partnership with EKWB—regulates temperatures so you won’t have to worry about thermal throttling in a game session.
Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink meets all requirements for upgrading your PS5. All you need to do is learn how to install a game drive into a PS5. With an M.2 SSD installed, your PS5 is ready to provide even more ultra-high-speed gaming.
Upgrading your PS5 with an M.2 SSD enhances your gaming experience and ensures you have the space and speed necessary to enjoy your favorite titles without limitations. We’ve explored how to choose the right SSD, the preparation steps for installation, and the detailed process of installing the Seagate FireCuda 530. You can find additional instructions in our Game Drive M.2 installation guide.
With its exceptional read/write speeds, compatibility with the PS5 and reliable performance, the FireCuda 530 is a premier choice for gamers looking to elevate their experience. By choosing the FireCuda 530, you’re investing in a storage solution that will significantly improve loading times and allow you to store more games and media than ever before. Say goodbye to the frustration of running out of storage and hello to seamless gaming with faster access to your library.
Explore Seagate FireCuda 530 to learn more about its capabilities and how it can enhance your gaming experience.
You should also consider the option of adding an external hard drive or SSD to your PS5 for a cost-effective, flexible way to expand storage without opening the console. This solution lets you store and play PS4 games directly from the external drive, while also backing up PS5 games to free up internal SSD space. Although PS5 games can't run from external drives, this option still provides easy access to a larger game library and media files. Explore Seagate external hard drives and SSDs for PS5.
Upgrade your PS5 internal storage for more storage capacity and better performance.
You may need guidance when upgrading your PS5 storage with an M.2 SSD. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the installation process and use of your new drive.
Yes. You can store PS5 games on an internal SSD, allowing faster load times and smoother gameplay.
To connect a portable SSD to your PS5, simply plug it into one of the USB ports on your console. The PS5 will recognize the device, allowing you to use it for game storage.
While it is not mandatory, using an internal SSD with a heatsink is highly recommended. Heatsink help manage heat during operation, ensuring optimal SSD performance and longevity.
Yes, you can play PS5 games from the internal expansion drive if you install a compatible M.2 SSD. The expansion drive is designed to allow PS5 games to run directly from it, offering the same performance as the console's internal SSD. However, external drives (USB hard drives or SSDs) cannot run PS5 games; they can only store them. You’ll need to transfer PS5 games back to the internal or expansion SSD to play them.
Yes, you can move games from the internal expansion storage (M.2 SSD) to an external storage device, such as a USB hard drive or SSD. However, keep in mind that PS5 games can only be stored on external storage—they cannot be played from there. This feature allows you to free up space on your expansion or internal SSD by moving PS5 games to external storage and easily transfer them back when you're ready to play. PS4 games, on the other hand, can be played directly from external storage.
To install games and apps on your FireCuda 530 M.2 SSD in your PS5, follow these steps:
PS5 supports M.2 SSDs ranging from 250GB to 4TB, giving users flexibility in choosing the right capacity for their gaming needs.
To move PS5 games to your SSD, go to the game library, select the game, and choose the option to move it to your M.2 SSD storage.
To remove an SSD, power off the PS5 console, remove the cover, unscrew the SSD, and carefully pull it out of the expansion slot.
You can add up to 4TB of SSD storage to your PS5, allowing ample space for your gaming library and applications.