How to Install an M.2 SSD in Your PS5 – Step-by-Step Guide

As of April 10, 2025, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) continues to be a gaming powerhouse, but its internal storage—whether the 825GB in the original model or the 1TB in the Slim version—can fill up quickly with modern, high-resolution games. Fortunately, Sony has made it possible to expand your PS5 storage with a compatible M.2 SSD, offering a practical solution to keep your gaming library growing. This step-by-step guide is designed for beginners, ensuring timeliness with the latest compatibility details, and provides clear, actionable instructions to maximize your console’s potential. Let’s dive into the process with confidence!

Why Upgrade Your PS5 Storage?

With games like Call of Duty and Spider-Man 2 demanding upwards of 100-200GB each, the PS5’s built-in SSD can become a bottleneck. Adding an M.2 SSD not only increases capacity (up to 4TB) but also maintains the console’s ultra-fast load times, provided you choose a compatible drive. This upgrade is especially relevant now, as the gaming industry continues to push larger file sizes, making it a timely investment for 2025 gamers.

What You’ll Need

Before starting, gather these essentials:

• A compatible M.2 SSD (PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe, 250GB to 4TB, with a read speed of 5500MB/s or higher).
• Common sizes include 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110, with a maximum width of 25mm, length up to 110mm, and thickness up to 11.25mm (including heatsink).
• Recommended drives: WD_Black SN850, Samsung 980 Pro, or Seagate FireCuda 530 (with heatsink).
• A Phillips #1 screwdriver.
• A clean, well-lit workspace (e.g., a table with an anti-static mat or towel).
• Optional: A grounding wrist strap or unpainted metal object to discharge static electricity.

Ensure your PS5 is updated to the latest system software (check under Settings > System > System Software) to support the SSD installation.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Step 1: Power Down and Unplug Your PS5

• Turn off your PS5 completely by pressing and holding the power button on the front until it beeps twice (about 7 seconds), then select “Power Off” from the menu if prompted.
• Unplug the power cord and all cables (HDMI, USB, etc.) to avoid any electrical risk.
• Safety Tip: Disconnecting while in sleep mode can cause issues, so always power off fully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace and Ground Yourself

• Place your PS5 on a flat surface with the PlayStation logo facing down and the rear ports (HDMI, etc.) facing you.
• Touch an unpainted, grounded metal object (like a radiator or PC case) to discharge static electricity. If using a grounding strap, attach it to your wrist and clip it to the metal object.
• Remove socks made of synthetic materials if working on carpet to prevent static buildup.

Step 3: Remove the Faceplate

• Hold the bottom-right corner (near the power button) with your right hand and the top-left corner (near the disc drive, if applicable) with your left hand.
• Gently pull upward with your right hand while sliding the faceplate left with your left hand. You’ll hear a “click” as it releases.
• Set the faceplate aside carefully—don’t force it, as it’s just clipped in place.

Step 4: Access the Expansion Slot

• Locate the white rectangular expansion slot cover on the left side, near the fan.
• Use your Phillips #1 screwdriver to remove the screw at the top of the cover by turning counterclockwise. Store the screw safely.
• Slide the cover upward and lift it off to reveal the SSD slot and a green area with multiple screw holes.

Step 5: Adjust the Spacer for Your SSD

• Remove the pre-installed screw and spacer (a small metal ring) from the top 110mm hole.
• Move the spacer to the hole corresponding to your SSD’s length (e.g., 80mm for a 2280 SSD). This ensures a secure fit.
• Note: If your SSD has a heatsink, ensure it doesn’t exceed the 11.25mm thickness limit, including the heatsink.

Step 6: Install the M.2 SSD

• Align the notched edge of your M.2 SSD with the expansion connector at a 30-45 degree angle.
• Firmly slide the SSD into the slot until it’s fully seated, then gently press it down flat against the spacer.
• Secure it with the screw through the half-circle notch, ensuring it’s snug but not over-tightened. Wiggle it slightly to confirm it’s secure.
• Caution: An improperly inserted SSD can damage the connector or console—double-check alignment.

Step 7: Replace the Expansion Slot Cover

• Position the white cover about 2cm (¾ inch) to the left of its final spot.
• Slide it right until it clicks into place, then fasten the screw.
• If it doesn’t close properly, your heatsink may be too large—remove the SSD and verify dimensions.

Step 8: Reassemble and Format the SSD

• Reattach the faceplate by aligning the clips and pressing until it clicks.
• Reconnect all cables and the power cord, then place the PS5 on its stand if using a horizontal setup.
• Turn on the PS5. A formatting prompt will appear if it’s the first time using the SSD.
• Select “Format M.2 SSD,” confirm (note: this erases all data on the drive), and wait for the process to complete (usually under a minute).
• Backup Tip: Back up saves to PlayStation Plus cloud storage or an external USB drive beforehand, as formatting wipes the SSD.

Post-Installation Checks

• Go to Settings > Storage to confirm the “M.2 SSD Storage” option appears.
• Test by downloading a game or moving existing games to the new storage via the Games Library.
• Monitor performance—load times should match the internal SSD’s speed if the drive meets the 5500MB/s requirement.

Troubleshooting Tips

• SSD Not Recognized: Ensure it’s fully inserted, formatted, and compatible. Update the PS5 firmware if needed.
• Overheating: Verify the heatsink is installed and within size limits. Avoid using an SSD without a heat-dissipation mechanism.
• Cover Won’t Fit: The heatsink may be too thick—check dimensions and consult the manufacturer.

Final Thoughts

Installing an M.2 SSD in your PS5 is a straightforward upgrade that significantly enhances your gaming experience, especially in 2025 as game sizes grow. This guide keeps it beginner-friendly with clear steps, practical advice, and timely relevance to current PS5 models and SSD options. With your new storage, you can enjoy more titles without the hassle of constant deletions. Happy gaming!