As a hardcore PS5 gamer, you want the best experience possible. Long load times and constantly juggling games is no fun. This in-depth guide will teach you how upgrading to an external hard drive or SSD can massively improve your PS5 storage capacity.
You‘ll learn:
- The easiest way to add more space for 100+ games
- Which types of drives work flawlessly with PS5 consoles
- Exactly what speeds and features to look for
- Specific product recommendations for all budgets
- Expert tips to upgrade without hassles
Let‘s start by examining why the PS5 needs expanded storage in the first place…
Why Your PS5 Needs External Storage
Out of the box, the PlayStation 5 comes with a respectable 825GB internal solid state drive (SSD). For a few games that space is plentiful.
But as your library grows, that 825GB fills fast thanks to massive game file sizes. Top PS5 titles like Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War (250GB) and NBA 2K23 (121GB) quickly eat 100+ GB each. Skyrim with max graphics mods can even balloon past 150GB.
You‘ll eventually face no choice but deleting old favorites just install new games. And redownloading 100GB games on demand via internet leads to endless frustration.
Expanding storage capacity is mandatory to avoid this. The superb solution is adding an external HDD (hard disk drive) or SSD. This guide will compare the types and recommend the best drives to seamlessly boost your PS5 capacity for all the incredible games on tap this year.
First let‘s crunch some numbers to grasp the gargantuan PS5 file sizes you‘ll handle…
Mind-Boggling PS5 Game Sizes (in GB)
| Title | Install Size |
|---|---|
| Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War | 250GB |
| NBA 2K23 | 121GB |
| Marvel‘s Spider-Man Remastered | 105GB |
| God of War Ragnarok | 100GB (est) |
| Skyrim (with 4k + mods) | up to 150GB |
Table data source: PlayStation game developer disk space requirements
That‘s just a sample – many folks have PS5 libraries exceeding 5+ terabytes. An external drive is essential to save you from constantly removing and downloading games.
Now let‘s examine external hard drives solutions for PS5 in detail…
HDD vs SSD for PS5 Storage Expansion
There are two main external drive technologies supported by Sony for expanding PS5 game storage:
-
Hard Disk Drive (HDD) – Reliant on internal moving parts like spinning magnetic disks and an actuator arm to read/write data. Offer much lower cost per TB compared to SSDs.
-
Solid State Drives (SSD) – Modern drives with no moving components, just flash memory chips saving data electronically. Much faster performance but pricier.
Let‘s compare them across important criteria:
| Specs | HDD | SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Read Speed | Max 210MB/s | Up to 7000MB/s |
| Write Speed | Max 180MB/s | Up to 5000MB/s |
| Durability | Low – prone to failures from drops/shocks due to internal mechanisms. Shorter lifespan (3-5 years max) | Very high – no moving parts so can readily withstand vibration, drops, extreme temps etc. |
| Noise Level | Audible mechanical chatter | Completely silent operation |
| Price Per TB | Around $25 | $80 to $150+ |
| Capacity | Up to ~20TB | Currently max out at 8TB |
| Form Factor | 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch | Very compact 2.5-inch size |
Example real-world loading time difference…
NBA 2K23 (120GB):
- HDD – 6 to 8 minutes
- SSD – Under 1 minute
As the data shows, SSDs outmatch HDDs markedly on all metrics (besides max capacity). The far superior durability, lightning quick speeds, cool/quiet operation and compact form factor make SSDs better suited for external PS5 storage needs.
However, if your budget is constrained or you want colossal amounts of space (8TB+), HDDs are reasonably good too. Just keep in mind the slower load times for huge 150 GB games.
Now let‘s cover top-rated PS5 compatible drives recommended by experts and everyday users.
Best External SSD for PS5
Samsung T7 Shield
- Capacities available: 1TB, 2TB
- Max Sequential Read: Up to 1050 MB/s
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen2
- Warranty: 3 years
Key Features:
- Blazing fast read/write speeds up to 1050/1000 MB/s
- Extreme durability with rubberized exterior to handle drops up to 9.8 feet
- Compact and sleek design for portability with added grip
- AES 256-bit encryption keeps your game data secure
- Management software allows password protection and drive diagnostics
- Compatible with USB 3.2 Gen2 ports on PS5
If you want uncompromising speed combined with serious protection, the unique Samsung T7 Shield is your best bet. Its awesome transfer rates hit the PS5‘s maximum potential. And the rugged design absorbs shocks while staying lightweight for travel. Paired with password enabled encryption for security, it‘s the premium SSD package.
WD_Black P50 Game Drive SSD
- Capacities available: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
- Sequential Read: Up to 2000MB/s
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
- Warranty: 5 years
Key Features:
- Blazing fast sequential read/write speeds up to 2000/1900 MB/s
- Striking and durable metal design
- Massive capacities up to 4TB
- Purpose-built SSD ideal for PS5 power users/ hardcore gamers
- 5-year manufacturer warranty for long-term peace of mind
Specifically created for high intensity gaming, the WD_Black P50 offers exceptional transfer rates thanks to bleeding edge USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and PCIe Gen4 technology. If you demand no-compromise SSD performance with spacious capacity, this premium external drive designed for the PS5 fits the bill.
And here are two more awesome PS5 SSD picks that made our top list:
SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable – Brilliant performer available in 1TB and 2TB, with transfer rates up to 2000MB/s. Also features handy carabiner loop for attaching to bags/gear.
Seagate Firecuda 530 – Blazing fast PS5 SSD delivering 7300MB/s read and 6000MB/s write speeds. Compact form factor with RGB lighting effects. The cost per terabyte is quite high.
Next up, let‘s examine the top rated external HDD options for PS5…
Best External HDD for PS5
Choosing an external HDD for your PS5 offers more affordable plug-and-play storage expansion. While not as speedy as SSDs, modern HDDs still deliver solid performance thanks to higher density disks and improved data access tech.
And you can score exponentially higher capacities for the money compared to SSDs – finding cost-effective 10TB+ external HDDs is commonplace.
Here are a couple top-rated PS5 external hard disk drives to consider…
WD Elements Desktop Hard Drive
- Capacities available: 6TB, 8TB, 10TB+
- Max Sequential Speed: Up to 5 GB/s read
- Interface: USB 3.0 / USB 2.0 compatible
- Warranty: 2 years
Key Features:
- Cost-effective storage for your PS5 game library
- Massive capacities up to 18TB
- Decent speeds via USB 3.0 interface
- Compact form convenient for desktop usage
- Widely recognized brand name and reliable after-sales support
If you want huge amounts external storage for the lowest possible cost, the WD Elements Desktop series delivers exceptional bang for buck. And Western Digital is a proven HDD brand you can count on.
Toshiba Canvio Advance
- Capacities available: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
- Max Sequential Read: Up to 5Gbps
- Interface: USB 2.0/3.0
- Warranty: 2 years
Key Features:
- Cost-effective per terabyte HDD option
- Transfer rates up to 5 Gbps via USB 3.0
- Slim and modern design available in multiple colors
- Backup and security software included
- Rugged internal shock sensor protects drive
- Renowned Toshiba brand reliability
The sleek and colorful Canvio Advance portable HDDs excel on value for money while delivering strong PS5 performance. Useful backup tools and shock resistance provide peace of mind too that your games library is safe.
And a pair more great value oriented recommendations:
Seagate Expansion Desktop – Simple plug and play PS5 HDD that comes in giant 10+TB editions. Decent USB 3.0 speeds and affordable cost per TB.
Crucial X6 – As much as 4TB for thrifty shoppers. And still hits 540MB/s transfers over USB thanks to expert SSD brand pedigree.
Okay, you now have the complete low-down on picking the perfect PS5 external drive. But here are some super useful tips for effortless installation and avoiding upgrade issues…
7 Tips for Adding External Storage to PS5 Without Hassles
Follow this advice to ensure your PS5 external hard disk or SSD upgrade goes smooth:
1. Pick a drive with USB 3.2 Gen1/2 for best speeds – Matching PS5‘s interface spec maximizes transfer rate.
2. Check dimensional fit if placing behind console – Some PS5 placements have width constraints so measure drive height/length to ensure fit.
3. Initialize correctly for instant plug-and-play use – Connect the drive while PS5 is on, then go to Settings > Storage and format it appropriately.
4. Disconnect safely before unplugging drive – Failing shut down properly via console menu risks data loss or disk corruption. Let the busy light on drive turn off before disconnecting.
5. Enable automatic updates for firmware – Keeping drive firmware current resolves bugs, enhances performance and boosts compatibility.
6. Store games you play often on the internal drive – Leave external drive for games accessed occasionally. Internal storage has faster load times.
7. Add a cooling stand if temperatures are high – Active cooling stands with built-in fans maintain optimum operating temps for external drives placed in tight hot areas near processors.
Applying those pro tips lets you upgrade hassle-free and harness maximum speeds from your chosen PS5 drive.
We‘ll wrap up with answers to popular questions gamers have about expanding PS5 storage…
Frequently Asked Questions
Got any more queries about selecting and setting up external storage for PlayStation 5 consoles? Here‘s additional help:
Q: Which hard drive brand is considered most reliable for PS5?
For peace of mind against failed drives causing permanent data loss, stick with recognizable names like Western Digital, Samsung, Seagate and SanDisk. Their years of storage expertise really pays off via advanced technology and responsive warranty service.
Q: What‘s the easiest way to set up a compatible external drive on my PS5?
Simply plug into any available USB 3.2 Gen1 or Gen2 port, head to the Settings > Storage menu while powered on, select your new drive, and choose to format it. Then you can begin transferring games over at ultra quick speeds. Couldn‘t be simpler!
Q: Can I use a single external HDD/SDD for both my PS5 and PS4 game libraries?
You sure can! PS5 is fully backwards compatible. So existing PS4 games play without issues. And PS4 external drives function flawlessly with PS5 after plugging them in. It‘s a great way to consolidate your games onto one mega-sized drive if you still actively play PS4 titles too.
Q: What recourse do I have if my PS5 external hard drive stops working one day?
Reputable makers like WD and Seagate provide extended 3 to 5 year warranties. Register you drive via their website right after purchase to be covered. Many also bundle data recovery services with their drives if the worst happens and it fails completely. This provides an extra layer of protection for your gaming investment.
Q: Does transferring PS5 games to an external drive impact loading performance?
Game assets stored on external drives load a bit slower than those kept internally on the PS5 SSD. But with those blazing fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 enabled drives above, we‘re still talking just seconds slower. The massive capacity trade-off makes it worthwhile.
Let the PS5 Good Times Roll!
That concludes our epic guide to supercharging your PS5 console by installing an external hard drive for vastly expanded storage space.
You now know exactly how to:
- Select the optimal drive technology for your budget
- Match incredible read/write speeds to your games
- Choose trusted brands engineered for PS5 rigors
- Effortlessly set up external storage
- Avoid common upgrade issues
Do you have any other questions about picking the ultimate PS5 external hard drive or SSD? Ask in the comments section!
Now It‘s game time. Time to load up dozens more of the finest titles. From Sony exclusives like God of War Ragnarok to third party masterpieces like Elden Ring. Plus enjoy all your cherished PS4 games too.
Game on!
