Here’s an overview of the Best External SSD for PS5 that we’ll explore today:
For PS5 gamers, storage space is a critical concern. With modern titles often exceeding 100GB, the PS5’s internal storage can quickly fill up, leaving users juggling between deleting old games or waiting for downloads. External SSDs offer a seamless solution, allowing gamers to expand their storage capacity while benefiting from fast load times and portability. In this review, we evaluated five popular external storage options for PS5, ranging from budget-friendly to premium models. Our testing methodology focused on performance (read/write speeds), ease of use, build quality, and compatibility with the PS5 ecosystem.
1. WD_BLACK 5TB P10 Game Drive
- Brand: WD_BLACK
- Manufacturer: WD_BLACK
The WD_BLACK 5TB P10 Game Drive is a high-capacity external HDD designed for gamers who need ample space to store their libraries. With its sleek metal top cover and portable form factor, it’s built to handle up to 150 games. While primarily marketed as a gaming drive, its 130MB/s speed is modest compared to SSDs, making it best suited for archiving games rather than playing directly from the drive.
In performance tests, the P10 delivered consistent speeds for data transfers, but its HDD nature limits its utility for PS5 gaming, as games must be transferred back to the internal SSD for play. Its build quality is solid, and the 5TB capacity is a major advantage for users with large libraries. However, the slower read/write speeds and mechanical design make it less appealing for users prioritizing performance.
Pros
- Massive 5TB capacity for large libraries
- Durable metal build quality
- Affordable per-terabyte cost
Cons
- Slow 130MB/s speed compared to SSDs
- Requires game transfer to internal SSD for PS5 play
2. Samsung T7 Portable SSD
- Brand: Samsung
- Manufacturer: Samsung
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a compact and affordable option for gamers seeking faster storage without breaking the bank. With read/write speeds of up to 1,050MB/s, it leverages PCIe NVMe technology to deliver performance nearly double that of its predecessor, the T5. Its lightweight aluminum unibody offers durability with shock resistance up to 6 feet, making it a practical choice for portable gaming setups.
During testing, the T7’s performance was reliable, with minimal thermal throttling even under sustained loads. It’s ideal for storing and transferring PS5 games and can also handle high-resolution video files for creators. However, its 1TB capacity may feel limiting for users with extensive game libraries, and it lacks the official PlayStation licensing seen in other models.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Fast read/write speeds up to 1,050MB/s
- Compact and durable design
Cons
- Limited 1TB capacity
- Not officially licensed for PS5
3. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD Officially Licensed Storage Expansion for PS5 Consoles
- Brand: WD_BLACK
- Manufacturer: WD_BLACK
The WD_BLACK SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD is a premium, officially licensed storage expansion for PS5. With blazing-fast read speeds of up to 7,300MB/s and an integrated heatsink, it’s tailored for gamers seeking top-tier performance. Its seamless compatibility with the PS5 ensures effortless installation and gameplay without the need for transfers.
In real-world testing, the SN850P delivered exceptional load times and smooth gameplay, rivaling the PS5’s internal SSD. The 2TB capacity provides ample space for modern AAA titles, and the included heatsink ensures consistent performance under heavy loads. While its $199.99 price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers, it’s the best choice for performance-focused gamers.
Pros
- Incredible 7,300MB/s read speeds
- Officially licensed for PS5
- Integrated heatsink for thermal management
Cons
- High price point
- Limited to 2TB capacity at this price tier
4. Seagate Game Drive for PS5 5TB External HDD – USB 3.0
- Brand: Seagate
- Manufacturer: Seagate
The Seagate Game Drive for PS5 offers a massive 5TB of storage in a stylish, officially licensed package. Its blue LED lighting adds a touch of flair, and its lightweight design makes it portable. However, as an HDD, it’s primarily suited for archiving games rather than playing directly due to slower speeds.
While the Game Drive’s 7200 RPM speed provides slightly better performance than standard HDDs, it still lags far behind SSDs in terms of load times. Its official PS5 licensing ensures seamless integration, but users must transfer games to the internal SSD for play. It’s a great option for users who prioritize capacity over speed.
Pros
- Large 5TB capacity
- Officially licensed for PS5
- Portable and lightweight
Cons
- Slow speeds compared to SSDs
- Games must be transferred to internal storage for play
5. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD
- Brand: SanDisk
- Manufacturer: SanDisk
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is a rugged and reliable option for PS5 gamers. With read speeds of up to 1,000MB/s, it’s designed for fast transfers and quick game access. Its IP65 rating ensures resistance to water and dust, while drop protection up to 3 meters adds durability for on-the-go use.
In testing, the SanDisk Extreme performed admirably, with consistent speeds and minimal latency. Its compact design and official PlayStation licensing make it an excellent choice for casual gamers or those looking for a secondary storage solution. However, the 1TB capacity may feel restrictive for users with larger libraries.
Pros
- Rugged design with water and dust resistance
- Fast 1,000MB/s read speeds
- Officially licensed for PS5
Cons
- Limited to 1TB capacity
- Higher price per terabyte compared to HDDs
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about external ssd for ps5s to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external ssd for ps5 can truly enhance your game.
It offers convenience and makes walking the course easier. With various options available, it’s important to consider your needs.
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