By Jacob
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) is a great gaming system, and its SSD is very fast. However, for serious gamers, the PS5’s limited storage space can be a problem. Sony has thankfully included an upgrade slot that lets users add an extra internal M.2 NVMe SSD. This gives users more storage space without slowing down the system. Follow along with this guide as we show you how to install SSD in PS5.
Why Add an SSD to Your PS5 Console?
The PS5 has an SSD built in that has about 825GB of storage space, but the operating system takes up space, so only about 667GB can be used to add games. Modern games are getting bigger and bigger, so this limited storage space can quickly become a problem for players who want to have a wide range of games available. By adding an SSD to your PS5, you can make the storage bigger and make sure you have enough room for all of your best games.
How to Install SSD in PS5 (All You Need to Know)
Installing an SSD in your PS5 can significantly increase its storage capacity, giving you more space for games and media. The PS5 is compatible with certain M.2 NVMe SSDs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install an SSD in your PS5:
Step 1: Choose a Compatible SSD
Before you start the installation process, it’s crucial to choose a compatible SSD for your PS5. Not all SSDs will work with the console, so it’s essential to select one that meets Sony’s specific requirements. The SSD should be an M.2 NVMe drive and have the following specifications:
- PCI-Express Gen4x4 supported
- Socket 3 (Key M)
- Storage size ranging from 250GB to 4TB
- Size options: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110
- Width up to 25mm
- Length options: 30, 40, 60, 80, or 110mm
- Thickness less than 11.25mm (less than 8mm from above the board, less than 2.45mm from below the board)
- Sequential read speed of 5,500Mbps or faster
Step 2: Prepare Your Equipment
Before you begin the installation process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment ready. You will need
- #1 Philips head screwdriver
- Tweezers
Step 3: Power Off Your PS5 and Unplug It
To ensure a safe installation process, you need to power off your PS5 properly. Press the PlayStation button on your controller, then select the Power icon. After the console lights turn off, select Power Off. Once the console is completely powered off, unplug it from the power source.
Step 4: Open the PS5’s Cover
Lay the PS5 flat on a soft surface, with the PlayStation logo facing down and the ports facing towards you. To open the PS5’s cover, grip the upper-left corner and the lower-right corner firmly. Gently lift the panel’s bottom right corner while sliding it to the left with your right hand. Brace the top of the panel with your left thumb to gain leverage. With some experimentation, you should be able to slide the panel to the left and remove it.
Step 5: Remove the Expansion Slot Cover
Once the PS5’s cover is removed, you will see the expansion slot cover. Remove the cover by unscrewing it with a cross-head screwdriver. Set the screw and the rectangular plate aside in a safe place.
Step 6: Remove the M.2 Screw
In the expansion slot, you will find a small screw sitting in the far-right hole. Carefully remove this screw using a screwdriver and set it aside. Keep the ring-shaped spacer in place for the next step.
Step 7: Place the Spacer in the Correct Hole
Depending on the length of your SSD, you need to place the spacer in the corresponding hole. Hold the SSD over the slot and align the notch on the SSD with the hole that matches its length. Use tweezers to move the spacer from the right-most hole to the correct hole. If your SSD is 110mm long, the spacer is already in the right place.
Step 8: Insert the SSD Into the Expansion Slot
With the heatsink facing up and the connection points facing left, gently align the notch on the SSD with the slot on the left. Press the SSD to the left, securing it in place. Press down on the right edge of the drive, ensuring that the notch on that side fits against the spacer.
Step 9: Secure the SSD
Use the M.2 screw to secure the SSD in place. Insert the screw into the right edge of the SSD and the spacer, and tighten it until the drive sits flat in the expansion slot.
Step 10: Cover the Expansion Slot
Replace the expansion slot cover and screw it into place, ensuring that it is securely fastened.
Step 11: Replace the PS5’s Cover
Carefully align the PS5’s cover slightly to the left of its position and slide it to the right until it clicks securely into place. Before you lock it, make sure the lid is in the right place.
Step 12: Format the SSD
Connect your PS5 back to your TV and power it on. The console will detect the newly installed SSD and prompt you to format it. Choose the option to format the SSD, which will erase any existing data on the drive. Allow a few minutes for the formatting process to complete. After formatting, the PS5 will run a speed test on the SSD to ensure optimal performance.
Step 13: Start Enjoying the Expanded Storage
Your PS5 is now equipped with an additional SSD, providing you with expanded storage capacity. You can now install games directly onto the SSD and enjoy a larger game library without worrying about running out of space. Explore the best PS5 games and make the most of your new storage solution. Remember to keep your PS5 and the SSD firmware up to date for optimal performance and compatibility.
Also Read: How to Use Discord on PS5? (Without PC)
In Closing
There is an easy way to add more storage to your PS5, which can make playing games a lot more fun. By following this step-by-step guide, you can learn how to install SSD in PS5 that works with fine and play more games without slowing it down. Prepare your equipment, turn off the console, open the cover, take off the expansion slot cover, enter and secure the SSD, cover the expansion slot, format the SSD, and start using the extra space. With more storage space, you can play a wider range of games and really get into the gaming world.
