If you’re running out of storage on your PlayStation 5, you’re definitely not alone. Modern games keep getting larger, and the PS5’s built-in 825GB SSD fills up faster than ever — especially with blockbuster titles frequently exceeding 100GB each. The solution? Installing an internal M.2 SSD expansion drive. Thankfully, you don’t need a premium, top-tier SSD to enjoy fast load times and smooth gameplay. In 2025, several budget-friendly SSDs meet Sony’s requirements while offering excellent performance for a fraction of the price.
This guide breaks down what to look for, the best affordable SSDs that work flawlessly with the PS5, and how to choose the right model for your storage needs.
PS5 SSD Requirements: What You Need to Know
Before choosing a budget SSD, you need to make sure it meets Sony’s official requirements. The PS5 is very particular about SSD specs because games rely heavily on ultra-fast streaming performance.
Sony’s Required Specs:
- Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe SSD
- Capacity: 250GB – 4TB
- Sequential Read Speed: 5,500 MB/s or faster
- Form Factor: M.2 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110
- Heatsink: Required (either built-in or added manually)
Most budget Gen4 SSDs now meet these standards, making 2025 the most affordable time yet to expand your PS5’s storage.
What to Look for in a Budget PS5-Compatible SSD
Here’s how to identify the best-value drives:
- True Gen4 Speeds
Look for drives rated 5,000–7,300 MB/s read speeds. Even models slightly below Sony’s 5,500 MB/s suggestion often work flawlessly in real-world testing — but sticking close to that number is ideal.
- Built-in Heatsink
A drive with a preinstalled heatsink is easier and safer for beginners.
If the SSD doesn’t include one, you can add a compatible M.2 heatsink for under $10.
- TLC vs QLC NAND
- TLC NAND: Better durability and consistency
- QLC NAND: Cheaper, but slower when cache fills
For PS5 gaming, TLC SSDs are strongly recommended.
- 1TB or 2TB Storage
- 1TB: Best value
- 2TB: Future-proof and still affordable in 2025
Best Budget SSDs for PS5 Expansion (2025 Edition)
After reviewing performance data, price trends, and community feedback, these are the top budget SSDs that deliver PS5-ready speeds without the premium cost.
- Silicon Power US70 — Best Overall Budget SSD for PS5
Silicon Power has consistently delivered high-quality storage at budget prices, and the US70 is one of the most affordable drives that still hits excellent Gen4 speeds.
Key Features:
- Up to 7,300 MB/s read
- TLC NAND
- Excellent thermals
- Very low price compared to premium brands
- Heatsink required (sold separately)
Why it’s great: Incredible performance-per-dollar and rock-solid reliability.
- Crucial P5 Plus — Best Brand-Name Budget Option
Crucial’s P5 Plus remains one of the most reliable and frequently discounted SSDs compatible with PS5 storage.
Key Features:
- Up to 6,600 MB/s read
- TLC NAND
- Pre-validated for PS5 use
- Optional heatsink version
Why it’s great: A trusted brand with consistent performance, ideal for cost-conscious buyers.
- TeamGroup T-Force Cardea Zero Z440 — Best for Thermals
This SSD includes a graphene heat spreader that fits perfectly inside the PS5 slot, often eliminating the need for a bulkier heatsink.
Key Features:
- Up to 7,000 MB/s read
- TLC NAND
- Ultra-thin cooling solution
- Solid sustained performance
Why it’s great: Affordable and thermally efficient — perfect for tight spaces.
- WD Black SN770 — Best Budget Gen4 Drive for Real-World Gaming
Although its sequential speeds aren’t as high as top-tier models, real-world PS5 performance shows excellent loading times and stability.
Key Features:
- Up to 5,150 MB/s read
- TLC NAND
- Runs cool and efficient
- Requires a heatsink
Why it’s great: One of the cheapest name-brand drives that still performs beautifully for gaming.
- Adata XPG Gammix S70 Blade — Best for Speed on a Budget
The S70 Blade is often priced far lower than its premium competitors while offering flagship-level performance.
Key Features:
- Up to 7,400 MB/s read
- TLC NAND
- Includes a low-profile heatsink
- Excellent endurance rating
Why it’s great: Maximum speed with a PS5-compatible heatsink included.
Best Capacity Choices for Budget Buyers
1TB — Best Value
- Affordable
- Plenty of space for 10–15 large games
- Great for casual or moderate gamers
2TB — Best Long-Term
- Still under $200 on many models in 2025
- Perfect for digital-only gaming libraries
- No constant deleting required
4TB — Premium Option (But Cheaper Than Prior Years!)
- Only worth considering if you never want to manage storage again
How to Install an SSD in Your PS5 (Quick Guide)
- Turn off the PS5 and remove all cables.
- Remove the side panel to access the M.2 expansion slot.
- Unscrew the cover plate.
- Insert the SSD at a slight angle.
- Press it down and secure with the screw.
- Replace the cover plate and side panel.
- Turn on PS5 → Format the SSD when prompted.
It takes under 10 minutes, even for beginners.
Tips for Maximizing SSD Performance on PS5
- Keep at least 10–20% free space for best speeds.
- If your SSD doesn’t include a heatsink, buy a slim aluminum one for safe temperatures.
- Avoid QLC-based drives — they slow down as they fill.
- Move PS5 games to the M.2 drive for fastest load times.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best budget SSD for PS5 expansion in 2025 is easier than ever. Prices have dropped dramatically, and top-tier performance is now available at budget-friendly levels. Whether you choose the Silicon Power US70, Crucial P5 Plus, or the Adata S70 Blade, you can significantly expand your PS5 storage without compromising speed or reliability.
With blazing fast load times, seamless game switching, and ample room for your growing library, upgrading your PS5’s storage is one of the smartest investments you can make — and now it’s more affordable than ever.
Game more, delete less — and level up your PS5 experience the budget-friendly way.
