Can the PS5 use an M.2 SATA SSD?
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No. Sony states that M.2 SATA SSDs are not supported. The slot needs an NVMe drive on PCIe Gen4. The two types share the M.2 shape, which is why they are confused, but they use different interfaces.
PS5 requirements as published in Sony's M.2 SSD support page. Prices from Amazon.co.uk.
M.2 SATA vs M.2 NVMe
| M.2 SATA | M.2 NVMe (Gen4) | |
|---|---|---|
| Works in a PS5 | No | Yes |
| Typical speed | About 550 MB/s | 5,000 to 7,400 MB/s |
| Connector notches | Usually two (B and M key) | One (M key) |
| Listing says | SATA III, 6Gb/s | NVMe, PCIe 4.0 |
A SATA SSD can still be useful
In a USB enclosure it becomes external storage for archiving PS5 games and playing PS4 games: see external SSDs for the PS5. For the internal slot, start at which SSD is compatible with the PS5.
Compatible drives, live prices
Related comparisons and guides
Related on this site: Can it use a Gen3 SSD?, PS5 SSD requirements, SSD not detected (fix), External SSDs.
More to read: Which SSD is compatible?, The 11.25mm height rule, With heatsink, 2TB, All guides.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my M.2 SSD is SATA or NVMe?
Check the label or listing. SATA drives say SATA and quote about 550 MB/s; NVMe drives say NVMe or PCIe and quote thousands of MB/s.
Can a 2.5 inch SATA SSD go in a PS5?
Not internally. It can be used over USB as extended storage.
Will a SATA M.2 drive damage the PS5?
No. It simply will not be recognised as usable.
Why does the PS5 need NVMe?
PS5 games are built around very fast storage. SATA tops out at roughly a tenth of the speed Sony recommends.
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