Looking for the best external SSDs for PS5 in 2025? I recommend models like the Samsung T7 for fast speeds, rugged durability, and sleek design, and the WD_BLACK P10 for reliability and ample storage. The Avolusion PRO-5X offers huge capacity, while the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD provides rugged portability. If you want to optimize your gaming setup, I’ll share more options and tips to help you choose the perfect drive.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize SSDs with PCIe Gen4 support and speeds up to 1050MB/s for fast game load times on PS5.
- Ensure compatibility with PS5 by formatting drives to exFAT or NTFS and using models with Sony-approved heatsinks.
- Opt for rugged, durable designs like Samsung T7 or Crucial X9 for reliable performance during portability and extended gaming sessions.
- Consider drives with high capacity (1TB to 4TB) to accommodate large game libraries and media files.
- Look for reliable brands offering warranty coverage and compatibility with multiple devices for versatile gaming storage needs.
Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 5TB External Hard Drive
If you’re looking for an affordable way to expand your PS5 storage without sacrificing capacity, the Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 5TB External Hard Drive is an excellent choice. It’s officially licensed, lightweight, and easy to set up with plug-and-play compatibility for PS5 and PS4. With a 7200 RPM speed and USB 3.2 Gen 1 support, it offers reliable transfer speeds, making game backups and transfers quick—around 10-15 minutes for large files. While you can’t run PS5 games directly from it, it’s perfect for storing, archiving, and transferring titles, helping you build a massive game library affordably.
Best For: gamers seeking an affordable, high-capacity external drive to expand their PS5 and PS4 storage without the need for fast game launching directly from the drive.
Pros:
- Large 5 TB capacity allows for extensive game libraries and backups
- Easy plug-and-play setup compatible with PS5 and PS4 consoles
- Reliable transfer speeds of around 10-15 minutes for large game files
Cons:
- Cannot run PS5 games directly from the external drive, only store and transfer
- Requires additional adapters (e.g., USB-C to USB 3.0) for some ports, which are not included
- No USB-C cable or dedicated adapter in the package, adding to setup considerations
BUFFALO External SSD 1TB External Solid State Drive (SSD-PG1.0U3B)
The Buffalo External SSD 1TB (SSD-PG1.0U3B) stands out as a reliable, portable storage option for gamers and professionals who need fast, durable data transfer on the go. It’s compact, rugged, and compatible with PS4, PS5, Windows, and Mac, making it versatile for various devices. With USB-C and USB-A support and speeds around 350MB/s, it handles large files, games, and applications efficiently. Its shock-resistant design ensures durability during travel, though it can heat up during intensive use, so thermal management helps. Overall, it’s a compact, reliable choice for quick storage and transfer, especially for those on the move.
Best For: those seeking a portable, fast, and durable external SSD for gaming, professional work, or casual storage on various devices.
Pros:
- Compact and rugged design ideal for on-the-go use
- Fast transfer speeds around 350MB/s support large files and gaming
- Compatible with PS4, PS5, Windows, and Mac systems
Cons:
- Can heat up significantly during intensive transfers, requiring thermal management
- Plastic USB connector may bend or break over time
- Not compatible with PS5 disc edition consoles
Avolusion PRO-5X Series 8TB USB 3.0 External Gaming Hard Drive for PS5
Gamers seeking a budget-friendly yet reliable external storage solution for their PS5 will find the Avolusion PRO-5X Series 8TB USB 3.0 hard drive to be a compelling choice, especially since it offers ample 8TB capacity and straightforward setup. Designed for both PS5 and PS4, it features a fast 7200RPM enterprise HDD and plug-and-play functionality. While PS5 games must be played from the internal SSD, this drive provides ample space for PS4 titles and game backups, with quick data transfers. Its sleek white design matches the PS5 aesthetic, and the automatic power management guarantees a seamless, hassle-free experience.
Best For: budget-conscious gamers who need reliable external storage for PS4 games and backups, and are willing to manage PS5 game transfers for expanded storage.
Pros:
- Easy plug-and-play setup with automatic power management, suitable for users of all technical levels
- Large 8TB capacity ideal for storing numerous PS4 titles and game backups
- Sleek white design that aesthetically matches the PS5 console
Cons:
- Limited support for PS5 game storage; games must be played from internal SSD, requiring data transfer for gameplay
- Some reports of slower-than-advertised USB 3.0 speeds, affecting transfer times
- Occasional compatibility issues or the need for additional power adapters in certain regions
SAMSUNG T7 Portable SSD 1TB External Solid State Drive
For anyone seeking lightning-fast load times and reliable storage on their PS5, the Samsung T7 Portable SSD 1TB stands out as a top choice. It offers up to 1,050 MB/s read and 1,000 MB/s write speeds thanks to PCIe NVMe technology, nearly doubling the speed of previous models. Its compact, durable aluminum build is shock-resistant and withstands drops up to 6 feet. With seamless compatibility across PCs, phones, and cameras, it’s perfect for gaming, content creation, or backups. Samsung’s reputation for quality guarantees dependable performance, making the T7 a versatile and game-changing addition to your gaming setup in 2025.
Best For: gamers, content creators, and professionals needing fast, reliable portable storage for high-resolution videos, large files, and backups.
Pros:
- Extremely fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, ideal for quick data transfers and gaming load times
- Durable, shock-resistant aluminum unibody construction with drop protection up to 6 feet
- Wide compatibility with PCs, mobile phones, and cameras, supporting 4K recording and high-resolution video editing
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to traditional HDDs or slower external drives
- Limited to 1TB capacity for the base model, which may be insufficient for very large files or extensive data needs
- Requires USB 3.2 or higher port for optimal performance; slower on older USB interfaces
WD_BLACK 5TB P10 Game Drive, Portable External Hard Drive
If you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly way to expand your PS5 storage, the WD_BLACK 5TB P10 Game Drive offers an excellent solution. With up to 6TB of capacity, it can hold around 150 games, making it perfect for large libraries. Its high-speed performance reaches up to 140MB/s, ensuring quick load times and smooth transfers. Built with durability in mind, it features a rugged, portable design with a sleek black metal top. Compatible with PS5, PS4, Xbox, and PC, it’s easy to set up and use, providing a cost-effective way to enhance your gaming experience without sacrificing performance.
Best For: gamers and content creators seeking an affordable, reliable external storage solution to expand their PS5, Xbox, or PC game libraries with fast transfer speeds.
Pros:
- High capacity up to 6TB for storing hundreds of games and large files
- Fast read speeds up to 140MB/s for quick load times and smooth transfers
- Rugged, portable design with durable metal top, ideal for gaming on the go
Cons:
- Being an HDD, it’s slower than SSDs for certain applications and load times
- Limited to USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 interfaces, which may not maximize speed on newer ports
- Not a replacement for internal SSDs for the fastest gaming performance
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD stands out with its impressive transfer speeds of up to 1050MB/s, making it an excellent choice for anyone who needs quick, reliable storage for large files and game data. Its high-speed performance guarantees fast transfers, media editing, and backups. Built for durability, it features IP55 water and dust resistance and can withstand drops from up to 7.5 feet. Compatibility spans Windows, Mac, PS5, PS4, Xbox, and more, thanks to USB-C and USB-A ports. Its compact design and 2TB capacity make it perfect for gamers and users seeking dependable, portable storage on the go.
Best For: casual gamers, students, and everyday users needing fast, reliable, and portable storage solutions for large files and media.
Pros:
- High transfer speeds of up to 1050MB/s for quick data handling
- Durable design with IP55 water and dust resistance and drop resistance up to 7.5 ft
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, gaming consoles, and mobile devices via USB-C and USB-A
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost compared to traditional hard drives
- No built-in encryption or advanced security features
- Limited to USB connections without included adapters for other interfaces
WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD for PS5
Gamers seeking a reliable, high-performance internal SSD for their PS5 should consider the WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD. This officially licensed drive offers seamless compatibility with the PS5, thanks to a specially designed heatsink optimized for easy installation. With PCIe Gen 4 technology and read speeds up to 7,300MB/s, it ensures quick load times and smooth gameplay. You can play directly from the drive, eliminating transfer delays. Available in capacities from 1TB to 4TB, it’s perfect for storing a large library of games. Plus, it includes a 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium | Deluxe, enhancing your gaming experience.
Best For: gamers who want a high-performance, officially licensed SSD for their PS5 with easy installation and fast load times.
Pros:
- Seamless compatibility with PlayStation 5 thanks to official licensing and optimized heatsink
- Extremely fast read speeds up to 7,300MB/s for quick game load times and smooth gameplay
- Large storage options from 1TB to 4TB, capable of holding extensive game libraries
Cons:
- Actual usable capacity may be less than advertised due to formatting and system factors
- Performance can vary based on host device and usage conditions
- The included PlayStation Plus trial is limited to 14 days and may not appeal to all users
BUFFALO External SSD 2.0TB
For those seeking a reliable and compact storage expansion for their PS5 or PS4, the BUFFALO External SSD 2.0TB stands out with its official license and steady performance. It features a sleek, cable-free design with a USB 3.2 Gen2 Type A interface, making it easy to connect and portable. With read/write speeds around 800-900 MB/sec, it handles large game files efficiently and reduces load times on PS4. While it can’t run PS5 games directly, it’s perfect for storing and launching PS5 and PS4 titles. Rated 4.3 stars, it offers solid value, especially for those needing dependable storage without breaking the bank.
Best For: gamers and users seeking a reliable, portable external SSD for expanding storage on PS5, PS4, or MacBook Pro without sacrificing speed or convenience.
Pros:
- Compact, cable-free design for easy portability and setup
- Steady read/write speeds of 800-900 MB/sec for efficient large file transfers
- Compatible with PS5, PS4, and other devices like MacBook Pro for versatile use
Cons:
- Cannot run PS5 games directly from the external SSD
- Slightly slower speeds compared to higher-end SSDs (up to 2,000 MB/sec)
- Price may be higher than some comparable drives offering faster performance
SK hynix Beetle X31 1TB Portable SSD with DRAM
Among the top contenders for PS5 external storage in 2025, the SK hynix Beetle X31 1TB Portable SSD stands out with its impressive support for sequential read speeds up to 1,050MB/s. With DRAM cache, it maintains high performance during large file transfers, gaming, and editing. Its compact, durable aluminum design in Champagne Gold combines style with protection against drops up to 2 meters. Compatible with PS5, PCs, Macs, and Android devices, it’s plug-and-play with USB 3.2 Gen2. Users praise its reliability, consistent speeds, and great value, making it a solid choice for gamers and professionals alike.
Best For: gamers, professionals, and heavy data users seeking fast, reliable portable storage for PS5 and other devices.
Pros:
- Supports high sequential read/write speeds up to 1,050MB/s, ideal for quick data transfers and gaming.
- Durable aluminum casing with drop protection up to 2 meters, ensuring robustness on the go.
- Compatible with multiple devices including PS5, PCs, Macs, and Android, with plug-and-play ease.
Cons:
- Price around $89.99, which may be higher compared to basic external drives.
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen2 ports to achieve maximum performance, limiting some older devices.
- Limited to 1TB capacity, which might be insufficient for users with extensive storage needs.
WD_BLACK 1TB SN850X NVMe Gaming SSD with Heatsink
The WD_BLACK 1TB SN850X NVMe Gaming SSD with Heatsink stands out as a top choice for anyone seeking blazing-fast load times and reliable performance for their PS5. It offers speeds up to 7,300 MB/s, reducing game load times and ensuring smooth gameplay. Its heatsink version effectively manages heat, preventing throttling during long gaming sessions. Compatible with PS5, Windows, and Linux, it supports PCIe Gen4 and M.2 2280 form factors, making installation straightforward. Users praise its thermal efficiency, speed, and ease of use, making it a dependable upgrade for gamers wanting quick access to large libraries and content creation workflows.
Best For: gamers, content creators, and PS5 users seeking high-speed, reliable storage with thermal management in a compact M.2 form factor.
Pros:
- Extremely fast read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s for quick game load times and seamless performance
- Effective heatsink version prevents overheating and throttling during long gaming or streaming sessions
- Compatible with PS5, Windows, Linux, and supports PCIe Gen4, offering versatile installation options
Cons:
- The small screw required for installation may be difficult to handle without the proper screwdriver
- Slightly higher cost compared to lower-speed SSDs, reflecting its premium performance
- Limited to M.2 2280 form factor, requiring compatible systems or enclosures
TEAMGROUP T-Force M200 Portable External SSD 2TB USB3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C
If you’re seeking a portable SSD that combines blazing-fast speeds with compatibility across multiple devices, the TEAMGROUP T-Force M200 Portable External SSD 2TB is an excellent choice. With USB 3.2 Gen2x2, it reaches speeds up to 2000MB/s, making file transfers quick and efficient. Weighing only 83 grams, it’s highly portable and features a dual structure for cooling and durability, including 2-meter drop resistance. Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox, and Chrome OS, it’s versatile for gaming, media editing, and backups. Many users praise its performance, reliability, and compact design, making it a top contender for PS5 external storage in 2025.
Best For: users seeking a high-speed, portable external SSD compatible with a wide range of devices including gaming consoles, laptops, and mobile devices.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast transfer speeds up to 2000MB/s, ideal for large file transfers and media editing
- Compact, lightweight design weighing only 83g, perfect for portability on the go
- Wide compatibility with Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, and Chrome OS
Cons:
- Some users report speed drops when storage exceeds 60GB or with certain file systems
- Housing may feel cheap or fragile under pressure, potentially reducing durability
- Stiff cables supplied can cause strain; flexible, right-angle USB-C cables are recommended
1TB Portable External SSD with USB 3.2 Gen2x2
For gamers and power users seeking lightning-fast data transfers, the Fikwot FP80 1TB External SSD with USB 3.2 Gen2x2 stands out as an excellent choice. It offers impressive speeds up to 2000MB/s, with real-world tests hitting around 1000MB/s via USB-A, making large file transfers quick and effortless. Its compact, lightweight design (just under 4 inches long) ensures portability, while the durable aluminum casing helps with heat dissipation during intensive use. Compatible with PS5, PS4, Xbox, Mac, Windows, and smartphones, this SSD is versatile and reliable for various gaming and storage needs. It’s a powerful, practical solution for gamers on the go.
Best For: gamers, creative professionals, and power users who require ultra-fast data transfer speeds and portable storage for large files across multiple devices.
Pros:
- Exceptional read speeds up to 2000MB/s for quick file transfers
- Compact, lightweight design with durable aluminum casing for portability and heat dissipation
- Broad compatibility with gaming consoles, PCs, Macs, and smartphones
Cons:
- Some users report slower speeds depending on system configuration
- Cannot be used as a startup disk on Macs
- Potential risk of file corruption over long-term use in certain scenarios
MOVE SPEED Magnetic 2TB Portable External SSD
Designed for gamers and creators who demand speed and durability, the MOVE SPEED Magnetic 2TB Portable External SSD delivers turbo transfer rates of up to 2000MB/s, markedly cutting down load times and speeding up large file transfers. Its sleek magnetic X-design clips onto laptop lids, inspired by spacecraft grooves, with a soft RGB glow for a modern look. Built with aircraft-grade zinc armor, it withstands drops, extreme temperatures, and tough conditions, making it perfect for on-the-go use. Compact and lightweight, it fits easily in pockets or backpacks. With universal USB-C compatibility and no software needed, it’s a reliable, high-performance choice for PS5 gamers and professionals alike.
Best For: gamers, creators, and professionals who need fast transfer speeds, durable storage, and a sleek, portable design for on-the-go use.
Pros:
- Turbo transfer rates up to 2000MB/s for quick large file transfers and reduced load times
- Rugged construction with aircraft-grade zinc armor that withstands drops, extreme temperatures, and tough conditions
- Magnetic X-design easily clips onto laptop lids with a modern aesthetic, plus plug-and-play compatibility across multiple devices
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard external SSDs due to premium build and performance features
- Requires USB-C ports for optimal performance, which may necessitate adapters for some older devices
- Limited storage capacity options (2TB) may not suit users needing larger or smaller storage sizes
Avolusion 1TB USB 3.0 Portable External Gaming Hard Drive
The Avolusion 1TB USB 3.0 Portable External Gaming Hard Drive stands out as an excellent choice for gamers seeking a compact, plug-and-play storage solution that requires no external power adapter. Its 1TB capacity supports both PS5 and PS4 games, allowing you to play PS4 titles directly from USB. Although PS5 games can’t be downloaded onto the drive, you can transfer them quickly between internal SSD and external storage—saving time and space. The drive is pre-formatted for immediate use and offers fast data transfer speeds via USB 3.0. Overall, it’s a reliable, portable option perfect for expanding your gaming library on the go.
Best For: gamers seeking a portable, easy-to-use storage solution for expanding their PS4 and PS5 game library without bulky hardware.
Pros:
- Plug-and-play design requiring no external power adapter
- Supports playing PS4 games directly from USB storage
- Fast data transfer speeds via USB 3.0 for quick game transfers
Cons:
- Cannot download or install PS5 games directly onto the USB drive
- Transfer times for PS5 games, while faster than re-downloading, still take several minutes
- Limited to 1TB capacity, which may not be sufficient for large game libraries over time
SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD
If you’re looking to expand your PS5 storage with a reliable and high-performance external SSD, the SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD stands out as an excellent choice. It’s officially licensed for PS5 and PC, supporting up to 2TB, and compatible with PS4 and PS5—allowing PS4 games to run directly and PS5 games to be stored as backups. With read speeds up to 1000MB/s, it ensures quick transfers and reduced load times. Its IP65 water and dust resistance, drop protection, and sleek white design make it durable and portable. Plus, it comes with a 5-year warranty, making it a solid, game-changing upgrade for any gamer.
Best For: gamers and PC users seeking a reliable, high-speed portable SSD to expand their PlayStation 5 or PC storage with durable, easy-to-use external drive solutions.
Pros:
- Supports up to 2TB capacity, providing ample space for large game libraries
- Fast read speeds up to 1000MB/s for quick transfers and reduced load times
- Durable design with IP65 water and dust resistance, drop protection, and lightweight portability
Cons:
- PS5 games cannot be played directly from the SSD; they must be copied to internal storage for play
- Maximum performance may be limited under load due to USB interface constraints
- No included cables; some users may find the need to purchase compatible USB-C cables separately
Factors to Consider When Choosing External SSDs for PS5
When choosing an external SSD for my PS5, I focus on compatibility, storage needs, and performance. I also consider durability, portability, and how much I want to spend, including warranty options. Understanding these factors helps me pick the right drive for smooth gaming and long-term use.
Compatibility With PS5
Choosing an external SSD for your PS5 requires paying close attention to compatibility factors that guarantee smooth performance and proper functionality. First, make sure the drive supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 or higher, as this is essential for ideal speed and data transfer. Keep in mind that only certain M.2 NVMe SSDs with Sony-approved heatsinks can be installed internally; external drives are used solely for storage expansion. The drive must be formatted to exFAT or NTFS, which the PS5 supports for game storage and transfers. Remember, you can’t run PS5 games directly from an external SSD—these are for storing and moving data. Finally, verify the drive’s physical connection, size, and power requirements against Sony’s official compatibility list to avoid any issues.
Storage Capacity Needs
Understanding your storage capacity needs is key to getting the most out of your external SSD for PS5. First, evaluate your current game library size and anticipate future growth to decide if 1TB, 2TB, or larger drives are right for you. Modern games can range from 36GB to over 100GB, so larger capacity options help avoid constant management of installed titles. Consider how much you value faster load times and transfer speeds, which might influence your choice of external SSD. Keep in mind that PS5 internal storage expansion may require specific capacities or types, affecting how much external space you need for backups or additional games. Finally, balance your storage needs against your budget—bigger drives cost more but offer longer-term flexibility for your gaming collection.
Speed and Performance
To guarantee smooth gaming experiences on your PS5, it’s essential to prioritize external SSDs that deliver high read and write speeds. Ideally, these speeds should exceed 1,000MB/s to ensure quick game transfers and minimal load times. The interface plays a critical role; USB 3.2 Gen 2 and NVMe PCIe Gen 4 offer the fastest data transfer rates, making them ideal choices. Sustained performance during large file transfers depends on thermal management, so look for drives with good heat dissipation to prevent overheating. Additionally, SSDs with DRAM cache provide more consistent speeds during intensive tasks like gaming or backups. Ultimately, higher sequential read/write speeds directly translate to faster load times and a better overall gaming experience on your PS5.
Durability and Portability
When selecting an external SSD for your PS5, durability and portability become key considerations to guarantee your investment lasts and is easy to carry around. A rugged, shock-resistant build guarantees the drive can withstand drops and rough handling during transport, protecting your data. Compact, lightweight designs make it simple to carry and set up across different locations without adding bulk. Features like dust and water resistance help keep your data safe in various environments, whether you’re gaming indoors or outdoors. Rubberized casings or metal armor can extend the SSD’s lifespan and maintain performance over time. Additionally, choosing a physically small drive ensures it fits neatly next to your console, reducing clutter and making your gaming setup cleaner and more flexible.
Price and Warranty
Price and warranty are crucial factors to weigh when choosing an external SSD for your PS5, as they directly impact your overall value and peace of mind. External SSDs vary widely in cost, from around $80 for basic models to over $200 for high-end options with better performance and capacity. Longer warranty periods, like 3 or 5 years, often reflect greater confidence from manufacturers in their product’s durability. Some brands also offer extra support, such as technical assistance or quick replacements, adding extra value. When comparing options, consider not just the price but also what the warranty covers, ensuring you get good protection and reliability for your investment in your PS5 storage upgrade. A balanced approach helps you find the best deal for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do External SSDS Impact PS5 Game Load Times?
External SSDs considerably reduce PS5 game load times, making gameplay smoother and more seamless. I’ve noticed that switching between games or loading saved data happens much faster with a good external SSD. They help bypass internal storage limitations, so you spend less time waiting and more time playing. If you want quicker loads and a better gaming experience, investing in a high-quality external SSD is definitely worth it.
Are There Compatibility Issues Between Different SSD Brands and PS5?
Yes, there can be compatibility issues between different SSD brands and the PS5. I’ve found that not all SSDs meet Sony’s required specifications for speed and form factor, so it’s essential to verify the drive’s compatibility before purchasing. Sometimes, firmware updates or specific settings are needed. I recommend sticking to well-reviewed, Sony-approved SSDs to ensure smooth performance and avoid any headaches.
What Is the Ideal SSD Durability for Long-Term Gaming Use?
Imagine losing all your progress after hours of gaming—that’s what poor durability can seem like. For long-term gaming, I recommend an SSD with at least 1,000 terabytes written (TBW) or a solid 5-year warranty. This guarantees it withstands frequent use and data transfers. Durability matters because your investment should last, keeping your gaming experience smooth and worry-free for years to come.
Can External SSDS Be Used for PS5 System Updates?
Yes, you can definitely use external SSDs for PS5 system updates. I’ve done it myself, and it’s straightforward. Just connect the SSD, format it as required, and then you can download and install updates directly onto it. Keep in mind, the SSD needs to meet Sony’s requirements for speed and compatibility. Using a reliable, fast external SSD makes managing updates and backups much easier.
How Does SSD Heat Management Affect Gaming Performance?
Heat management in SSDs directly impacts gaming performance. When an SSD overheats, it can throttle its speed to prevent damage, causing lag or longer load times. I always make sure my SSD has good airflow or cooling solutions, especially during intense gaming sessions. Proper heat management keeps my SSD running efficiently, ensuring smooth gameplay and quick load times, so I can enjoy my games without interruptions.
Conclusion
As I explore these top external SSDs for PS5, I can’t help but feel like I’m assembling my own legendary arsenal—each drive a trusty sword ready to conquer long loading screens and expand my gaming universe. Whether it’s the speed of Samsung’s T7 or the storage of Seagate’s Game Drive, these options turn your console into a formidable hero. Equip yourself wisely, and let your gaming saga unfold without limits.
