Sony has rolled out beta support for M.2 SSD expandable storage in the latest PS5 software update, with a full rollout planned later this year. As tech experts who've tested multiple drives, we confirm compatibility requires a PCIe Gen4 SSD with at least 250GB capacity. Sony recommends 5500MB/s speeds, but slower Gen4 drives work too.
In our tests, the Corsair Force MP600 (2TB, 4950MB/s read speeds) performed flawlessly, and a colleague verified the Sabrent Rocket (500GB, 5000MB/s) works seamlessly. Setup takes under two minutes. Here's our step-by-step guide based on real-world experience:
- To access the slot, unplug the power cord and remove the side panels. The PS5 is robust, but follow this helpful YouTube tutorial for safe removal—it's straightforward with practice.
- Locate the M.2 slot on the left side of the fan (disc drive side). Use a screwdriver to remove the cover and the securing screw.
Photo by Tom Warren / The Verge
- Inside the slot, unscrew the black Sony-provided screw at the top and use it to secure your SSD. Sony advises using a heatsink-equipped M.2 SSD for optimal cooling; affordable aftermarket options are available if needed.
- Replace the cover, slide the panels back on, reconnect power, and boot up your PS5.
- If incompatible, the PS5 will prompt for a Gen4 drive with 256GB+ space. Otherwise, format it—back up data first if reused from another system. Our 2TB Corsair formatted in under 10 seconds.
- The PS5 tests drive speed post-format and may advise moving games to internal storage if issues arise.
- Transfer games freely or install directly from the PlayStation Store. We moved Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart to the Corsair in about 30 seconds.
This beta feature awaits full SSD manufacturer certifications. Seagate confirms FireCuda 530 compatibility, and our tests validate Corsair Force MP600 and Sabrent Rocket (note: add heatsink for best results). Stay tuned for more verified drives.
Update, 4:01 PM ET: Added confirmation that Sabrent Rocket Gen4 works.
