If you want to expand your storage, a ps5 external ssd is one of the smartest upgrades in 2025. Modern PS5 games take up a lot of space, so extra storage is essential. But not all SSDs are created equal, and choosing the right one can significantly impact performance, speed, and the overall gaming experience. Here, we’ll show the Top 7 Best PS5 External SSDs in 2025 to help you find the perfect balance of speed, capacity, and reliability.
What to Look for in a PS5 External SSD
When picking an external SSD for your PS5, consider key factors to ensure top performance, compatibility, and value.
- Speed & Performance
Fast read and write speeds are crucial for smooth gaming, especially when moving large game files between your PS5’s internal and external storage. While PS5 games can’t run directly from external SSDs, high-speed transfers save time. Look for SSDs with read speeds of at least 5,500 MB/s to match the PS5’s internal SSD performance.
- Capacity Options
Choose a size based on your gaming habits:
- 1TB: Good for casual gamers with a few titles.
- 2TB: Balanced option for most players, supporting a larger library.
- 4TB: Ideal for avid gamers with extensive collections and future-proofing in mind.
- Compatibility
Ensure your SSD supports USB 3.2 Gen2 or USB 3.2 Gen2x2, as these are compatible with the PS5. Always check the SSD’s specs to confirm.
- Durability & Design
Look for SSDs that are:
- Portable: Compact and lightweight for easy transport.
- Well-built: Robust construction to handle everyday use.
- Heat-resistant: Some models include cooling features to prevent overheating during long gaming sessions.
- Price vs. Value
High-end SSDs offer top performance but can be expensive. Mid-range options often provide excellent speed and reliability at a lower cost. Consider warranty, brand reputation, and user reviews to find the best balance of performance, durability, and value.
Top 7 Best PS5 External SSDs 2025 Edition
Top 1: ADATA SE920 USB4 External SSD
- Interface: USB4
- Max Speed: Up to 3,800 MB/s
- Capacity: Up to 4TB
- Why It Stands Out: It boasts blazing-fast speeds thanks to USB4 technology. Future-proof for upcoming high-performance games, ideal for gamers wanting top-tier performance.
Top 2: Samsung Portable SSD T9
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Max Speed: Up to 2,000 MB/s
- Capacity: Up to 4TB
- Why It Stands Out: Offers excellent read/write speeds for quick game transfers and backups. Its compact, sturdy design makes it highly portable and durable. Ideal for gamers wanting a reliable, all-around performer.
Top 3: WD Black P50 Game Drive SSD
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Max Speed: Up to 2,000 MB/s
- Capacity: Up to 4TB
- Why It Stands Out: Built specifically for gamers, this drive combines high-speed performance with a rugged build, keeping your games safe while ensuring fast loading times.
Top 4: SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Max Speed: Up to 1,050 MB/s
- Capacity: Up to 2TB
- Why It Stands Out: IP65-rated for water and dust resistance, making it perfect for gamers who travel. Offers a good balance of speed, durability, and portability.
Top 5: Crucial X10 Pro Portable SSD
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Max Speed: Up to 1,050 MB/s
- Capacity: Up to 2TB
- Why It Stands Out: Delivers solid performance at a competitive price. Ideal for budget-conscious gamers who still want reliable storage for their PS5 games.
Top 6: Seagate FireCuda Gaming SSD
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Max Speed: Up to 1,000 MB/s
- Capacity: Up to 2TB
- Why It Stands Out: Specifically designed for gaming, the FireCuda offers fast data transfers and a stylish design that fits a gaming setup.
Top 7: Kingston XS1000 Portable SSD
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Max Speed: Up to 1,050 MB/s
- Capacity: Up to 2TB
- Why It Stands Out: Ultra-portable with solid performance, making it perfect for gamers needing extra storage without bulky drives.
How to Set Up and Use an External SSD on PS5
Setting up an external SSD on your PS5 is easy. Just follow these steps to get started:
- Connect the SSD to the PS5 (Rear USB Port)
Plug your SSD into a rear USB 3.2 Gen2 port on the PS5. Rear ports are faster and give better performance, while front ports may be slower for high-speed SSDs.
- Go to the Storage Settings
From the PS5 home screen, open Settings, go to Storage, and select USB Extended Storage to manage external drives.
- Format the SSD for PS5 Use
Choose your connected SSD. The PS5 will ask you to format it, which will erase all existing data, so back up any important files first. Follow the on-screen instructions, formatting only takes a few moments.
- Verify the SSD is Set Up Properly
After formatting your external SSD, go to Settings → Storage → USB Extended Storage on your PS5. The SSD should appear in the list with its available storage capacity, confirming it’s ready to use. You can now use it to:
- Store and play PS4 games directly from the SSD.
- You can store PS5 games on an external SSD, but to play them, you must transfer them back to the PS5’s internal storage.
- Save media files like screenshots, videos, and clips.
Extra Tips
- Safely remove the SSD: Don’t unplug the SSD while your PS5 is on or in Rest Mode. Instead, go to Settings > Storage > USB Extended Storage and select Safely Remove from PS5 before disconnecting it.
- Organize your games: You can set your PS5 to automatically install PS4 games on the external SSD by going to:
Connecting and setting up an external SSD on your PS5 lets you increase your storage, keep your games organized, and free up space on the internal drive for PS5 games. It’s a fast, safe, and easy way to manage your game library.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play PS5 games directly from an external SSD?
No, PS5 games cannot be played directly from an external SSD. You can store them on the drive, but to play, they must be transferred back to the PS5’s internal SSD. External drives don’t meet the speed and performance requirements for PS5 games.
Note: PS4 games can be played directly from an external SSD connected to your PS5.
What’s the difference between external SSDs and M.2 SSDs for PS5?
- External SSDs: Connect via USB and are mainly used for storing or transferring games. They cannot run PS5 games directly.
- M.2 SSDs: Installed in the PS5’s internal expansion slot. These drives are fast enough to run PS5 games directly, effectively expanding your console’s internal storage.
Always check the SSD manufacturer’s specifications and the official PlayStation website for the latest compatibility information.