With the new PS5 system software update going live tomorrow that enables the SSD expansion, PlayStation has released a video clearly showing how to install a PS5 SSD expansion in the console’s SSD expansion bay. The video clearly outlines materials, prep, and step-by-step instructions, especially helpful for anyone who might be a little bit nervous about the process. You can watch the five-minute tutorial below, as well as read through our text outline.
How to Install a PS5 SSD Expansion
This installation process will work for both the digital and disc-based PS5 consoles.
What You’ll Need
- PS5 Console (Digital or Disc Versions)
- Compatible M.2 SSD Expansion Drive
- #1 Phillips Screwdriver
- Stable Work Surface
- Optional: Soft Cloth, Flashlight
Ps5 SSD Installation Preparation
- Make sure your PS5 is updated to the latest PS5 system software.
- Power down your PS5 console and let it cool off.
- Remove the PS5 console’s base and attached cables.
- Touch a separate metal grounded object to diffuse any static electricity and prevent damage to the console.
PS5 SSD Installation
- Position the console on your work surface with the PS logo side down and the power button facing away from you.
- Remove the cover.
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- Place your right hand to on the edge of the bottom right corner and your left hand on the top left corner.
- Lift the corner of the cover with your right hand, using the left hand to slide the cover off towards where the base attaches to the console.
- See image below or video above for visual aid.
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- Use the screwdriver to detach the expansion slot cover (the long rectangle of metal near the fan, on the front edge of the console).
- Remove the screw and spacer inside the expansion slot.
- Place the spacer in the slot that matches your SSD expansion size.
- Hold your SSD so that it matches the connection port. Insert it starting from a slightly diagonal upward position. Make sure it is firmly pressed in.
- Fasten the SSD in place with the spacer screw you removed in step 4.
- Put the SSD expansion bay cover back on and screw back into place.
- Put the PS5 cover back on using the opposite motion used in step 2 to remove it. It will click back into place.
- Reconnect your PS5 and following the on-screen prompts to format your new SSD expansion for use.
M.2 SSD Recommendations and Specs: Make sure your SSD meets the recommendations and specs outlined by Sony. The basic requirements are:
- Format: PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD
- Capacity: 250GB – 4TB
- Sequential read speed: 5,500MB/s or faster is recommended
- Form Factor: M.2 type 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 and 22110.
- These numbers can be found on retail listings for M.2 SSD devices. The first two digits refer to the width, the remaining digits to the length
- Socket type: Socket 3 (Key M)
- Length: 30mm, 42mm, 60mm, 80mm, 110mm (corresponding to the form factor type, per above)
- Module width: 22mm width (25mm width is not supported)
- The total structure (including an added cooling structure) cannot exceed 25mm (0.984in)
- Height: The total height of the M.2 SSD and its cooling structure (such as a heatsink) – whether built-in or separate –must be less than 11.25mm (0.442in)
- The height must also be in the right place, in relation to the M.2 SSD’s circuit board
- The size below the board must be less than 2.45mm (0.096in). The total size above the board must be less than 8mm (0.314in)
- Other Notes
- Both single-sided and double-sided M.2 SSD devices are supported.
- M.2 SATA SSDs aren’t supported.
- You should carefully review drive specifications prior to purchase and contact the vendor or manufacturer if you need further information. SIE cannot guarantee that all M.2 SSD devices meeting the described specifications will work with your console and assumes no responsibility for the selection, performance or use of third-party products.
- Not all games are necessarily playable with the exact same performance provided by the PS5 console’s internal Ultra-High Speed SSD, even where the M.2 SSD device’s sequential read speed is faster than 5500MB/s.
- The majority of M.2 SSD devices with the above type numbers (M Key Type 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 and 22110) and without a built-in cooling structure will fit the PS5 console’s SSD slot. However, sizes for cooling structures (like heatsinks) vary greatly. If you are not sure an M.2 SSD or cooling structure (such as a heatsink) you’re considering meets the size requirements outlined here, we recommend looking for another product option or contacting the vendor or manufacturer for more information.
Note that some other drives that don’t meet the above criteria may work, but these are Sony’s recommended specs. Following them will ensure the drive you choose will function with the PS5.
