Each PlayStation 5 has 825 GB of SSD storage. That may seem like a lot, but due to the size of the current generation of video games, this space is quickly filled. With an extra SSD slot, gamers can add more storage space as needed.
Maikel Dijkhuizen
Under the hood, the PlayStation 5 has a free M.2 slot. Initially, this component was still disabled, but in September 2021 Sony launched a firmware update to activate this M.2 slot. Since then it has been relatively easy to expand the storage space. Depending on which M.2 SSD you choose, you can add a minimum of 250 GB and a maximum of 4 TB.
SUITABLE M.2 SSD
Users cannot just mount any SSD in the game console. The PlayStation website states exactly which conditions the M.2 SSD must meet. First of all, pay attention to the interface, because a fast PCI-Express Gen4.0 x4 SSD is required. Sony recommends an uninterrupted reading speed of at least 5500 MB/s. Another point of attention is the maximum thickness of 11.25 millimeters. You don’t have to worry about the length. Finally, the storage medium must have a heat sink to dissipate sufficient heat. Various manufacturers produce suitable M.2 SSDs for the PlayStation 5, such as Western Digital, Seagate and Samsung. A number of brands indicate themselves which storage media are compatible. For this article, Samsung sent the 980 Pro M.2 SSD with built-in heatsink. A nice bonus are the large storage capacity of 2 TB and reading speed of 7000 MB/s.
OPEN HOUSING
You really only need a small Phillips screwdriver to mount the extra SSD. In addition, a flashlight and soft towel are handy. Before you get started, it is wise to first discharge yourself. To do this, touch a grounded metal object, such as a radiator. You switch off the PlayStation 5 if necessary and remove all wiring. If necessary, allow the housing to cool down for a while. It is now time to open the system case. Remove the bottom and lay the game console flat with the PS logo facing down. Make sure you look at all connections, such as the Ethernet and HDMI port. The intention is that you slide the top cover loose. Do that by lifting the top right corner slightly, while sliding the hood on the left to the left. That takes a little strength.
EDIT
The SSD slot is located behind an aluminum protective plate. Loosen this with a screwdriver. Then remove the screw and spacer from the hole marked 110. You then place the spacer in the correct screw hole. For example, if you have an M.2 SSD with a length of 80 millimeters, you put the spacer in the corresponding screw hole. Gently push the connector of the M.2 SSD into the slot on the left at an oblique angle and secure the storage carrier with the screw. You then replace the aluminum protective plate, the hood and the bottom. After you have connected all the cables, turn on the PlayStation 5. Finally, choose Format M.2 SSD to make the extra storage space accessible.