M.2 SSD vs the PS5's internal storage: is there a difference?
PS5, PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro storage, ranked by value on Amazon.co.uk
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability come from Amazon.co.uk as of the last update and may change.
A PS5 game runs from an M.2 SSD in the expansion slot just as it does from the console's built-in drive, provided the SSD meets Sony's requirements. Sony recommends 5,500 MB/s or faster for that reason. You can install, play and update PS5 games on either, and move them between the two at any time.
PS5 requirements as published in Sony's M.2 SSD support page. Prices from Amazon.co.uk.
Built-in drive vs M.2 SSD vs USB drive
| Built-in | M.2 SSD | USB drive | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Play PS5 games | Yes | Yes | No |
| Play PS4 games | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Download straight to it | Yes | Yes | PS4 games only |
| Maximum size | Fixed | 8TB | 8TB |
From Sony's M.2 SSD requirements and Sony's extended storage requirements.
Which should hold which games?
It makes no practical difference. Set the M.2 SSD as the default install location and use the built-in drive as overflow, or the reverse. See how to move games to a PS5 SSD.
Compatible drives, live prices
Related comparisons and guides
If this page is not quite what you need, try Does it improve load times?, PS5 SSD requirements, PS5 Pro storage, PS5 Pro SSD.
You may also want PS5 Slim SSD, With heatsink, The 11.25mm height rule, 2TB, How to install.
Frequently asked questions
Is the PS5's internal SSD faster than an M.2 SSD?
Not in a way you would notice with a drive that meets Sony's recommended 5,500 MB/s. Games are designed to run from either.
Does the PS5 Pro's internal drive differ?
It is larger, at 2TB, but the expansion slot and its requirements are the same as on other models.
Can PS5 games be installed directly to the M.2 SSD?
Yes. Choose it under Settings, Storage, Installation Location.
Will a slower M.2 SSD still run PS5 games?
A Gen4 drive under 5,500 MB/s is accepted, but Sony warns that games may not perform as they do from the built-in drive.
Independent comparison site. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Sony Interactive Entertainment. PlayStation and PS5 are trademarks of Sony.
Last updated: 2026-10-21 06:04:07 UTC. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date indicated on Amazon.co.uk and are subject to change. Any price displayed at the time of purchase will apply. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON SERVICES LLC. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED AS IS AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.