How To Add More Storage Space to Your PlayStation 5
Want to store more games on your PS5? This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on how to add more space to your PS5, enabling you to dramatically expand your console’s storage capacity via internal SSD or external USB storage, so you’ll never have to delete another game again.
Understanding the PS5’s Storage Situation
The PlayStation 5 comes with a built-in 825GB SSD, but only about 667GB is actually usable for games, apps, and saved data. With game sizes constantly increasing, this fills up quickly. Understanding your storage options and how to best utilize them is crucial for a smooth gaming experience.
Benefits of Expanding Your PS5 Storage
Expanding your PS5 storage offers several key advantages:
- More Game Installations: Store a significantly larger number of PS5 and PS4 games directly on your console.
- Eliminate Deletion Anxiety: No more agonizing over which games to uninstall to make room for new ones.
- Faster Loading Times: Internal SSD expansion maintains the PS5’s blazing-fast loading speeds for PS5 games (when installed on the internal SSD).
- Convenient Game Library: Keep all your favorite games readily accessible without needing to redownload them constantly.
- PS4 Game Storage: External storage allows you to play and store your PS4 games directly, freeing up valuable internal SSD space.
Option 1: Installing an Internal M.2 SSD
Adding an internal SSD is the best way to expand storage for PS5 games, maintaining the console’s high-speed performance. However, it requires specific SSD specifications and a bit of technical know-how.
Requirements for Internal SSD:
- Form Factor: M.2 2280 (80mm)
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD
- Capacity: 250GB – 4TB
- Sequential Read Speed: At least 5500MB/s
- Heatsink: Mandatory – Either pre-installed or purchased separately.
Steps for Installation:
- Power Down and Unplug: Completely turn off your PS5 and disconnect all cables.
- Ground Yourself: Use an anti-static wrist strap or touch a grounded metal object to prevent electrostatic discharge.
- Remove the Side Panel: Place the PS5 on a soft surface and gently slide off the side panel as detailed in the official PlayStation guide.
- Locate the SSD Expansion Slot: Remove the screw and metal cover from the expansion slot.
- Install the SSD: Insert the SSD into the slot at a slight angle and then press it down to secure it with the screw.
- Replace the Cover and Side Panel: Put the metal cover and side panel back on.
- Power On and Format: Turn on your PS5 and follow the on-screen instructions to format the new SSD.
Recommended Internal SSDs:
| SSD Model | Capacity (TB) | Read Speed (MB/s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung 990 Pro with HS | 1, 2, 4 | 7450 | Excellent performance, reliable. Heatsink included. |
| WD Black SN850X with HS | 1, 2, 4 | 7300 | Fast and dependable. Heatsink included. |
| Crucial P5 Plus with HS | 1, 2 | 6600 | Great value, meets minimum speed requirements. Heatsink included |
Option 2: Using an External USB Hard Drive
An external USB drive offers a simpler and more affordable way to expand storage, but it’s limited to storing and playing PS4 games only. PS5 games cannot be played directly from an external USB drive.
Requirements for External USB Drive:
- Interface: USB 3.0 or later.
- Capacity: 250GB – 8TB.
- Direct Connection: Connect directly to the PS5’s USB port; avoid using USB hubs.
Steps for Use:
- Connect the Drive: Plug the external USB drive into a USB port on your PS5.
- Format the Drive: Go to Settings > Storage > Extended Storage and select “Format as Extended Storage”.
- Move PS4 Games: Move PS4 games to the external drive to free up space on the internal SSD.
Managing Your PS5 Storage
Knowing how to manage your storage is key to maximizing its effectiveness. Here’s how:
- Moving Games: Navigate to Settings > Storage and move games between the internal SSD and external storage.
- Prioritizing Games: Keep frequently played PS5 games on the internal SSD for faster loading times.
- Deleting Unused Content: Regularly review your installed games and delete those you no longer play.
- Transferring Game Saves: Back up your game saves to the cloud (PlayStation Plus required) or a USB drive to avoid losing progress when deleting games.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying an Incompatible SSD: Ensure the SSD meets all the required specifications for internal installation.
- Forgetting the Heatsink: A heatsink is essential to prevent overheating and performance throttling of the internal SSD.
- Using a Slow External Drive: A USB 2.0 drive will significantly impact PS4 game loading times.
- Connecting to a USB Hub: This can cause performance issues and is not recommended.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- SSD Not Recognized: Ensure the SSD is properly installed and formatted. Check the connection and try reseating the drive.
- Slow Transfer Speeds: Verify the SSD meets the minimum read speed requirements and is properly cooled. Ensure the external drive is USB 3.0 or later.
- Game Crashes: Overheating can cause game crashes. Ensure the internal SSD has adequate cooling.
Here is How To Add More Space To PS5? in a few key steps: Choose either an internal M.2 NVMe SSD that meets the specifications, or an external USB drive for PS4 games. Follow the installation or formatting instructions to greatly increase your storage capabilities and enjoy uninterrupted gaming!
FAQs
Can I use any M.2 SSD in my PS5?
No, you cannot. The SSD must meet specific requirements, including being a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD, having a read speed of at least 5500MB/s, being an M.2 2280 form factor, and absolutely requiring a heatsink.
Do I need a heatsink for the internal SSD?
Yes, absolutely. A heatsink is mandatory for the internal SSD to prevent overheating and performance throttling. Without a heatsink, the SSD’s performance can degrade significantly, and it may even fail prematurely.
Can I play PS5 games directly from an external USB drive?
No, you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external USB drive. External storage is limited to storing and playing PS4 games on the PS5.
How do I move games between the internal SSD and external drive?
Go to Settings > Storage, then select either Console Storage or Extended Storage. From there, you can select the games you want to move and choose the destination.
What happens if my external USB drive is too slow?
If your external USB drive is too slow (e.g., USB 2.0), you will experience significantly longer loading times for PS4 games. Ensure you are using a USB 3.0 or later drive for optimal performance.
Can I use a USB hub to connect my external drive?
It is not recommended to use a USB hub to connect your external drive. This can cause performance issues and may prevent the drive from being recognized properly.
How much does it cost to add more storage to my PS5?
The cost varies depending on the type and capacity of storage you choose. An internal 1TB SSD with a heatsink can range from $80 to $150, while an external 1TB USB drive can cost between $50 and $100.
What happens if my new SSD isn’t recognized by the PS5?
Ensure the SSD is properly installed and seated in the expansion slot. Also, double-check that it meets the minimum specifications. If it still isn’t recognized, try reseating it or contacting the manufacturer.
Will expanding my storage void my PS5 warranty?
Installing an SSD should not void your warranty as long as you follow the official PlayStation instructions and do not damage the console in the process.
How do I format my external USB drive for use with my PS5?
Connect the drive to your PS5 and go to Settings > Storage > Extended Storage. Select “Format as Extended Storage” and follow the on-screen instructions. This will erase all data on the drive, so back up anything important beforehand.
What is the maximum storage capacity I can add to my PS5?
You can install an internal SSD with a capacity of up to 4TB. For external USB drives, the maximum supported capacity is 8TB.
Is it better to use an internal SSD or an external USB drive?
For playing PS5 games, an internal SSD is far superior due to its significantly faster loading times. However, an external USB drive is a more affordable option for storing and playing PS4 games. Deciding how to add more space to PS5? Depends on your storage needs.