If you’re looking for the best external SSDs for your PS5 in 2025, I recommend options like the Samsung T7 and SanDisk Extreme Portable for their speed, durability, and capacity. Drives like the WD_BLACK SN850P and Samsung 990 PRO offer top-tier performance with high transfer speeds perfect for gaming and media. Whether you want rugged portability or large storage, there’s a perfect fit. Continue exploring to discover the top models and tips for choosing the best one for your setup.
Key Takeaways
- The list features top external SSDs supporting USB 3.2, offering speeds up to 7,450MB/s for fast game loading and data transfer.
- Capacity options range from 1TB to 8TB, suitable for extensive PS5 game libraries and multimedia storage.
- Many drives include rugged, durable designs with water, dust, and shock resistance for reliable gaming on the go.
- Compatibility spans PS5, PS4, PC, Mac, and mobile devices, with formatting to exFAT ensuring seamless use.
- Special features like heatsinks, encryption, and software tools enhance performance, security, and ease of management.
BUFFALO External SSD 1TB
If you’re looking for a reliable, portable external SSD that’s compatible with PS5, the Buffalo External SSD 1TB is an excellent choice. It offers fast data transfer speeds thanks to USB 3.2, making game loading and transfers quick and smooth. Its compact, rugged design means you can easily carry it around without worry about drops or damage. Compatible with PS4, PS5, Windows, and Mac, it’s versatile for gaming and backup needs. Plus, with USB-C and USB-A support and a three-year warranty, you get both flexibility and peace of mind. This drive is perfect for expanding your storage without sacrificing speed or durability.
Best For: gamers and professionals seeking a portable, durable external SSD for fast data transfer and easy storage expansion compatible with PS4, PS5, Windows, and Mac.
Pros:
- Fast transfer speeds with USB 3.2 for quick game loading and data backups
- Compact, rugged design provides portability and shock resistance for on-the-go use
- Versatile connectivity via USB-C and USB-A, compatible with multiple devices
Cons:
- May be more expensive than traditional HDDs with similar storage capacity
- Limited to 1TB, which might be small for users with large data needs
- Requires registration for the full three-year warranty, which may be an extra step
SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD stands out as an ideal choice for gamers seeking fast, reliable storage expansion for their PS5. Officially licensed for PlayStation 5 and PC, it guarantees seamless integration and effortless game transfers. With speeds up to 1000MB/s, you can quickly move games between the SSD and your internal storage. Its durable design is rated IP65 for water and dust resistance and offers drop protection up to 3 meters. Plus, it includes a 1-month Discord Nitro trial and features USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2 interfaces for fast data transfer. Built for speed and durability, it’s a top pick for any serious gamer.
Best For: gamers and PlayStation 5 users seeking fast, durable, and reliable external storage expansion for seamless game transfers and large capacity.
Pros:
- Achieves speeds up to 1000MB/s for rapid game transfer and loading
- IP65 water and dust resistance with up to 3-meter drop protection for durability
- Includes a 1-month Discord Nitro trial and features USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2 interfaces for fast data transfer
Cons:
- May be more expensive than standard external SSDs without licensed approval
- Limited to 1TB capacity, which could be restrictive for some users with extensive game libraries
- Requires compatible USB-C port, which might necessitate adapters for some devices
BUFFALO External SSD 1.0TB
For gamers seeking a reliable, officially licensed external SSD to expand their PS5 or PS4 storage, the BUFFALO External SSD 1.0TB stands out as a solid choice. It supports saving PS5 and PS4 games, helping reduce load times on PS4 and offering easy, cable-free USB connection. With steady read/write speeds of 800-900 MB/sec, it performs well in stress tests and is straightforward to set up. Though it can’t run PS5 games directly, it’s perfect for storing and loading large game files, freeing up internal space. Its compact design makes it ideal for minimal setups, offering reliable performance with a solid build.
Best For: gamers seeking a reliable, officially licensed external SSD to expand their PS5 or PS4 storage with easy setup and steady performance.
Pros:
- Supports saving PS5 and PS4 games, reducing load times on PS4.
- Compact, cable-free design ideal for minimal gaming setups.
- Reliable performance with steady 800-900 MB/sec read/write speeds.
Cons:
- Cannot play PS5 games directly from the drive; only supports storage and loading.
- Some users experience interference with PS5 internet connection.
- Price may be higher compared to faster or more affordable alternatives like Samsung drives.
Avolusion PRO-5X Series 8TB USB 3.0 External Gaming Hard Drive
Gamers seeking large-capacity external storage that offers reliable performance and seamless compatibility with PS5 will find the Avolusion PRO-5X Series 8TB USB 3.0 External Gaming Hard Drive to be an excellent choice. With its sleek white design, rugged build, and 8TB capacity, it handles both PS4 and PS5 games efficiently. While PS4 titles play directly from the drive, PS5 games need to be transferred to the internal SSD for play. The drive features a 7200 RPM enterprise HDD, quick transfer speeds via USB 3.0, and a 2-year warranty, making it a dependable, high-capacity solution for gaming enthusiasts.
Best For: gamers and PS5/PS4 owners seeking a large, reliable external storage solution for their game libraries with seamless compatibility and quick transfer speeds.
Pros:
- Large 8TB capacity accommodates extensive game collections
- Compatible with PS5 and PS4, supporting direct play of PS4 games
- Built with high-quality components, ensuring durability and reliable performance
Cons:
- PS5 games require transfer to internal SSD for gameplay, not playable directly from USB
- Transfer speeds may sometimes resemble USB 2.0 despite USB 3.0 advertising
- Compatibility issues and the need for external power adapters in some regions
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD
If you’re looking for a portable external SSD that combines speed and broad device compatibility, the Lexar ES3 1TB stands out as a top choice. It supports USB 3.2 Gen 2, delivering up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, making file transfers quick and efficient—though performance depends on your device’s port. Compatible with iPhone 15, Android, laptops, cameras, and gaming consoles like PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PS4, it’s versatile for many setups. Its slim, durable metal design weighs just 42g, fitting easily in your pocket. Plus, with 256-bit AES encryption, your data stays protected during transfer and storage.
Best For: users seeking a compact, high-speed external SSD compatible with a wide range of devices including smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles.
Pros:
- Supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 with transfer speeds up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write for fast data transfer.
- Slim, durable metal design weighing only 42g, easy to carry and pocket-friendly.
- Includes 256-bit AES encryption for enhanced data security during transfer and storage.
Cons:
- Performance may vary depending on device support for USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Not compatible with iPhone 14 or older models, limiting Apple device support.
- Magsafe compatibility is not available in this version.
Samsung T7 Portable SSD, 2TB External Solid State Drive
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD stands out as an excellent choice for PS5 owners seeking fast, reliable external storage. With read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s, it’s nearly 10 times faster than traditional external drives, making game loading and transfers quick and seamless. Its durable, compact design features shock resistance and solid aluminum construction, perfect for on-the-go use. Compatible with PS5 via USB 3.2 Gen 2, it supports large files, game backups, and even 4K recording. With a sleek look and proven reliability from Samsung, the T7 is an ideal, high-performance addition to your gaming setup.
Best For: gamers, content creators, and professionals seeking fast, portable, and reliable external storage for large files, backups, and high-speed data transfer.
Pros:
- Extremely fast read/write speeds up to 1,050/1,000 MB/s for quick game loads and data transfers
- Compact, durable design with shock resistance and solid aluminum construction for on-the-go use
- Wide compatibility with PC, Mac, Android, gaming consoles, and support for 4K video recording
Cons:
- Premium price point compared to traditional external hard drives
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2 port for maximum performance, which may not be available on older devices
- Limited storage capacity options beyond 4TB in the T7 lineup
WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD for PS5
Designed specifically for PlayStation 5, the WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD offers seamless compatibility and an optimized heatsink that fits perfectly into the console’s M.2 slot. Installation is straightforward, and the heatsink guarantees the drive stays cool during intense gaming sessions. With up to 7,300MB/s read speeds, it delivers fast load times and smooth gameplay. Available in multiple capacities, it provides ample space for your favorite titles. Plus, it’s tested and approved for PS5, so you can play directly from the drive without transferring or deleting games. A 14-day trial of PlayStation Plus Premium adds extra value for gamers.
Best For: gamers seeking a high-performance, compatible SSD to expand their PS5 storage with fast load times and reliable operation.
Pros:
- Seamless compatibility with PlayStation 5, ensuring easy installation and optimal performance.
- Exceptional speed with read rates up to 7,300MB/s for quick game loading and smooth gameplay.
- Includes a heatsink designed specifically for PS5, keeping the drive cool during intense gaming sessions.
Cons:
- Actual user capacity may be less than the advertised size due to formatting and system requirements.
- Performance may vary depending on the host device and usage conditions.
- Limited to capacities up to 4TB, which might not be sufficient for very large game libraries for some users.
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD
For gamers seeking quick load times and seamless storage expansion, the Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD stands out with read speeds up to 1050MB/s. It handles large file transfers, media editing, and backups effortlessly, thanks to its fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 USB-C connection supporting up to 10Gbps. Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and consoles like PS5 and Xbox, it’s plug-and-play ready. Its rugged, compact design with IP55 water and dust resistance makes it perfect for travel and outdoor use. With 2TB of storage and over 5,000 positive reviews, it’s a reliable, high-performance option for expanding your gaming library and media library alike.
Best For: gamers, content creators, and professionals needing fast, portable storage for large files, media editing, and backups across multiple platforms and environments.
Pros:
- High-speed read/write performance up to 1050MB/s, reducing transfer times
- Rugged, compact, and lightweight design with IP55 water and dust resistance and drop protection
- Broad compatibility across Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, and gaming consoles
Cons:
- Short included USB-C cable may require purchasing longer, certified cables for optimal performance
- Speed and performance may vary depending on connected hardware and cables
- Slightly larger size than a credit card, which may be a consideration for ultra-minimalist users
Crucial X6 1TB Portable SSD
If you’re looking for a portable SSD that combines speed, durability, and versatility, the Crucial X6 1TB Portable SSD is an excellent choice. It offers blazing read speeds up to 800MB/s, making large file transfers, gaming, and media editing quick and efficient. The compact, lightweight design easily fits in a pocket, while its shockproof and temperature-resistant casing guarantees durability during travel. Compatible with PS5, PS4, Xbox, PC, Mac, and Android devices, it provides versatile connectivity. With a 1TB capacity and a rugged build, the X6 is perfect for gamers, professionals, and content creators needing reliable, portable storage on the go.
Best For: gamers, professionals, and content creators needing fast, durable, and portable storage solutions for large files and high-resolution media.
Pros:
- Very fast read speeds up to 800MB/s for quick data transfers
- Compact, lightweight, and rugged design for portability and durability
- Compatible with multiple devices including PS5, PS4, Xbox, PC, Mac, and Android
Cons:
- Transfer speeds may decrease when the drive is nearly full (above 20% capacity)
- Slight discrepancy in usable capacity due to formatting (around 960GB)
- Requires USB-C or adapters for certain devices, which may add to setup complexity
SK hynix Beetle X31 2TB Portable SSD
The SK hynix Beetle X31 2TB Portable SSD stands out with its impressive transfer speeds—supporting up to 1,050MB/s read and write—making it an excellent choice for gamers and professionals who need quick, reliable storage on the go. Its sleek aluminum design is durable yet lightweight, fitting easily into pockets or bags. With USB 3.2 Gen2 connectivity and both USB-C and USB-A cables included, it offers broad compatibility with PS5, PCs, and Macs. Users report consistent speeds and low temperatures during heavy use. Backed by a 3-year warranty and solid customer reviews, the Beetle X31 delivers high performance and durability in a portable package.
Best For: gamers, professionals, and heavy data users seeking a durable, high-speed portable SSD for quick file transfers and reliable performance on the go.
Pros:
- Extremely fast transfer speeds up to 1,050MB/s, ideal for large file transfers and editing.
- Compact, lightweight, and durable aluminum design with good thermal management.
- Broad compatibility with USB 3.2 Gen2, USB-C, and USB-A devices, including PS5, PCs, and Macs.
Cons:
- Slight limitations in speed during random 4K read/write tests.
- Higher price point compared to some other portable SSDs in the same capacity range.
- No built-in encryption or advanced security features included.
SanDisk 2TB Portable SSD
The SanDisk 2TB Portable SSD stands out as an excellent choice for gamers and professionals who need fast, reliable storage on the go. With read speeds up to 800MB/s, it handles large files quickly, making it perfect for gaming, backups, and creative projects. Its durable aluminum shell resists shocks and drops, while the soft exterior improves grip. Compatible with USB-C devices, it offers seamless plug-and-play setup across operating systems. Many users report speeds exceeding expectations, and its rugged design guarantees durability during travel. Overall, this SSD combines speed, portability, and reliability, making it a top option for anyone seeking portable storage in 2025.
Best For: gamers, creatives, and professionals seeking fast, portable storage for large files and demanding applications.
Pros:
- Exceptional read speeds up to 800MB/s for quick data transfer
- Durable aluminum shell with shock and drop resistance for reliable portability
- Easy plug-and-play compatibility with USB-C devices across multiple operating systems
Cons:
- Bundled software may be unnecessary and can be deleted for optimal performance
- Initial setup sometimes requires reformatting for best speeds
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic portable drives for similar capacity
MOVE SPEED Magnetic 2TB Portable External SSD
Designed for gamers who prioritize speed and style, the MOVE SPEED Magnetic 2TB Portable External SSD offers turbo transfer speeds of up to 2000MB/s, making it ideal for loading PS5 games quickly and transferring large files in seconds. Its sleek magnetic X-design, spacecraft-inspired grooves, and RGB glow give it a high-tech look that stands out. Compact and lightweight, it easily attaches to laptop lids or slips into a pocket. Built with aircraft-grade zinc armor, it’s rugged enough to survive drops and extreme temperatures. Despite some brightness issues with the RGB lights, the SSD’s performance and durability make it a reliable choice for demanding gaming and creative tasks.
Best For: gamers and creative professionals seeking high-speed data transfer, stylish design, and rugged durability in a portable external SSD.
Pros:
- Turbo transfer speeds up to 2000MB/s for rapid file handling and gaming load times
- Sleek magnetic X-design with spacecraft-inspired grooves and RGB glow for a high-tech aesthetic
- Rugged aircraft-grade zinc armor ensures durability against drops and extreme temperatures
Cons:
- Bright RGB lights may be excessively luminous and lack adjustable settings
- Metal case lacks rubber feet, increasing vulnerability to shocks if not handled carefully
- Higher price point compared to similar external SSDs, reflecting its premium features
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 4TB USB 3.2 External Solid State Drive
If you’re looking for lightning-fast data transfer speeds to keep up with demanding gaming and multimedia needs, the Samsung T9 Portable SSD 4TB is an excellent choice. It leverages USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 technology, delivering sequential read speeds up to 2,800MB/s and write speeds up to 2,300MB/s, ensuring quick transfers and smooth gameplay. With 4TB of storage, it handles large files effortlessly. Its rugged, lightweight design makes it highly portable, while AES 256-bit encryption keeps your data secure. Compatible with various devices, including PS5, laptops, and smartphones, the T9 combines speed, capacity, and durability in a sleek, reliable package.
Best For: users who need ultra-fast data transfer, high-capacity portable storage, and secure data protection for gaming, multimedia editing, and professional workloads.
Pros:
- Exceptional transfer speeds up to 2,800MB/s read and 2,300MB/s write, ideal for demanding tasks
- Rugged, lightweight design with durable build and thermal management for portability and longevity
- AES 256-bit hardware encryption and software support ensure data security and drive maintenance
Cons:
- Requires compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 host devices to achieve maximum performance
- Premium price point reflecting high-end speed and build quality
- Limited to external use; not suitable as internal storage for desktops or laptops
SAMSUNG 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 1TB (MZ-V9P1T0CW)
For gamers seeking top-tier performance, the Samsung 990 PRO Heatsink SSD 1TB stands out with its integrated heatsink and blazing-fast speeds. It delivers sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s and high IOPS, making it ideal for intensive gaming and professional tasks. The built-in heatsink guarantees thermal stability, preventing overheating during long sessions. Powered by Samsung’s efficient controllers and smart heat management, it offers better power efficiency and consistent performance. Compatible with PS5, desktops, and laptops meeting PCI-SIG D8 standards, this SSD combines speed, reliability, and thermal control—perfect for anyone wanting a high-performance storage upgrade.
Best For: gamers, tech enthusiasts, and professionals seeking ultra-fast, reliable storage with thermal management for intensive tasks on compatible systems.
Pros:
- Extremely fast sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s
- Integrated heatsink ensures thermal stability during prolonged use
- High IOPS performance ideal for gaming, video editing, and professional workflows
Cons:
- Compatibility limited to systems meeting PCI-SIG D8 standards
- Higher cost compared to standard SSDs without heatsinks
- Performance may vary depending on system hardware and firmware configurations
Factors to Consider When Choosing External SSDs for PS5
When choosing an external SSD for your PS5, I focus on compatibility, transfer speeds, and storage capacity to guarantee smooth performance. Reliability and durability matter too, since a sturdy drive keeps your games safe over time. Ultimately, I consider connection options to make sure it’s easy to set up and use with my console.
Compatibility and Format
Choosing the right external SSD for your PS5 starts with ensuring compatibility and proper formatting. First, check that the drive supports USB-C or USB-A connections and meets the necessary interface standards for your console. Compatibility isn’t just about ports—ensure the SSD is officially licensed or certified for PS5, guaranteeing seamless integration and reliable performance. You also need to confirm the drive’s format; most PS5-compatible external drives should be formatted to exFAT, which offers broad compatibility with both PS5 and PS4. Keep in mind that some SSDs support direct game play, while others require transferring data to internal storage. Finally, review the firmware and system requirements to make sure your console recognizes and can utilize the drive efficiently.
Transfer Speed Requirements
To guarantee your external SSD delivers the fast performance needed for PS5 gaming, it’s essential to pay close attention to transfer speeds. The PS5 recommends SSDs with speeds of at least 550MB/s to ensure quick game loading and smooth data transfer. For superior performance, look for drives supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2 or higher, as they provide the bandwidth needed for rapid data throughput. Speeds exceeding 1,000MB/s can drastically cut down game transfer times, especially when moving large files. Since the PS5 depends on these transfer speeds for features like quick resume and minimal load times, choosing an SSD with verified high-speed performance is critical. Anything slower may cause bottlenecks, hampering your gaming experience and data management.
Storage Capacity Needs
Selecting the right storage capacity for your external SSD depends on how many games and files you plan to keep on your PS5. Modern games can range from 50GB to over 100GB each, so it’s crucial to estimate your library size. If you play only a few titles at a time, a 1TB drive might suffice. However, if you have an extensive collection or stream media regularly, consider 2TB or more. Think about your current gaming habits and whether a larger capacity can reduce the need to delete or transfer files frequently. Keep in mind that SSD capacities are labeled in decimal, so actual usable space will be slightly less. For future-proofing, opting for higher capacities now can save you from upgrading later.
Durability and Reliability
Since your external SSD will likely see daily use and occasional bumps, prioritizing durability and reliability is essential. Look for models with high durability ratings, such as IP65 water and dust resistance or shock protection, which can handle accidental drops and exposure to the elements. Choose drives with solid, rugged enclosures made of metal or reinforced materials to endure impacts and temperature swings. Verify that the SSD supports drop protection of at least 2 meters, ensuring your data stays safe if it falls. Additionally, consider drives with built-in thermal management features like heatsinks or effective heat dispersal to prevent overheating during long gaming sessions. Ultimately, select models with a proven track record, positive user reviews, and reliable warranties to ensure consistent performance over time.
Connectivity Options
When choosing an external SSD for your PS5, it is vital to pay close attention to the connectivity options because they directly impact data transfer speeds and compatibility. USB-C connections generally offer faster transfer rates and broader device compatibility compared to USB-A. For peak performance, look for SSDs supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2 or higher, which guarantees quick game loading and transfers of large files. Some drives feature dual connectivity options, including both USB-C and USB-A cables, making them versatile for various devices and systems. The type of port matters; USB-C tends to be more reliable and faster, especially with high-performance SSDs. Confirming your SSD supports the appropriate port standard guarantees seamless data transfer and reduces connection issues during gaming or data management.
Price and Warranty
Price and warranty are important factors that can influence your choice of external SSD for your PS5. The cost often reflects features like speed, capacity, and durability, so it’s crucial to balance your performance needs with your budget. Cheaper drives tend to have shorter or limited warranties, which could lead to additional costs if issues arise later. Many manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 2 to 5 years, with some providing extended coverage or registration options for extra protection. Be sure to review the warranty’s terms and conditions, including what’s covered and claim procedures, to ensure it aligns with your expectations and risk management. Investing in a drive with a solid warranty offers peace of mind and long-term reliability for your gaming setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does External SSD Compatibility Vary Between Different PS5 Models?
External SSD compatibility varies slightly between PS5 models, mainly due to firmware updates and hardware revisions. I’ve found that newer PS5 models tend to support faster SSDs and more recent standards, but all generally require USB 3.2 Gen 2 or higher for ideal performance. I recommend checking your specific model’s firmware and port specifications before purchasing an external SSD to guarantee seamless compatibility and maximum speed.
What Are the Long-Term Durability Expectations for Portable SSDS Used With PS5?
I expect portable SSDs for PS5 to last several years with proper care. They’re generally durable, especially models designed for heavy use, but factors like temperature, shocks, and frequent read/write cycles can affect their lifespan. I recommend backing up important data regularly and avoiding extreme conditions. With good maintenance, these SSDs can serve you reliably for a long time, ensuring your gaming experience stays smooth and uninterrupted.
Can External SSDS Support PS5 Game Updates and Patches Effectively?
External SSDs support PS5 game updates and patches effectively, ensuring seamless, swift software synchronization. I’ve found that fast, reliable drives handle hefty updates without hiccups, keeping games current and convenient. By maintaining consistent connection speeds, they guarantee patches pop up promptly, providing a smooth, satisfying gaming experience. So, yes, external SSDs are not just storage; they’re an essential, capable component for keeping your PS5 games fresh and functional.
Are There Specific Cooling Requirements for High-Performance External SSDS?
Yes, there are specific cooling requirements for high-performance external SSDs. I always make sure mine has proper airflow and avoid placing it in enclosed spaces to prevent overheating. Using a cooling pad or ensuring the device is well-ventilated helps maintain ideal speed and longevity. Keeping the SSD cool is essential for consistent performance, especially when playing demanding PS5 games or running large updates.
How Does External SSD Performance Impact Online Multiplayer Gaming Experience?
Imagine your gaming experience as a race—speed and consistency are everything. External SSD performance directly impacts online multiplayer by reducing lag and loading times, giving you a competitive edge. Faster read/write speeds mean smoother gameplay, fewer interruptions, and quicker responses. So, investing in a high-performance SSD isn’t just about storage; it’s about ensuring your connection stays sharp, keeping you engaged and in control during intense online battles.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external SSD for your PS5 can feel overwhelming, but I’ve found that the best options are often the ones you stumble upon when you least expect them. Whether it’s a trusted brand or a new model that catches your eye, the right drive can transform your gaming experience. Sometimes, the perfect SSD is just around the corner—ready to boost your play and keep you immersed in your favorite worlds.
