WD_BLACK SN850X vs SN850P for PS5
PS5, PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro storage, ranked by value on Amazon.co.uk
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The WD_BLACK SN850P is the officially PlayStation-licensed drive with a fitted PS5 heatsink, while the SN850X is the same performance class, unlicensed, and usually cheaper. They perform identically in the PS5, so the licensed badge buys a guaranteed fit and presentation rather than speed. Buy the SN850P for certainty and a clean install; buy the SN850X to save money and fit your own low-profile heatsink.
SN850X vs SN850P at a glance
| WD_BLACK SN850X | WD_BLACK SN850P (licensed) | |
|---|---|---|
| Officially licensed | No | Yes, by Sony |
| Heatsink | Optional version | Always fitted, PS5-shaped |
| PS5 performance | Full spec | Full spec, identical |
| PS5 Slim fit | Check the heatsink height | Designed to fit |
| Typical price | Lower | Premium |
Is the licensed drive worth it?
Choose the SN850P if
- You want a guaranteed clean fit, including on the PS5 Slim.
- You value the official PlayStation design and badge.
- You would rather not think about heatsink height at all.
Choose the SN850X if
- You want the same performance for less money.
- You are happy buying the heatsink version or fitting your own.
- Value per terabyte is your priority.
The honest verdict
Because the two drives share performance, the only real question is whether the licensed SN850P's guaranteed fit and official heatsink are worth the premium over an SN850X with its own heatsink version. For a PS5 Slim owner who wants zero fit risk, they often are; for everyone else, the SN850X usually wins on value.
The live table below lists both drives ranked by price per terabyte on Amazon.co.uk, so you can size up the premium before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
Is the licensed SN850P worth it over the SN850X for the PS5?
Only for the guaranteed fit and official heatsink; performance is identical. PS5 Slim owners who want zero fit risk may prefer it, but the SN850X usually wins on value.
Do the SN850X and SN850P perform differently in the PS5?
No. They are the same performance class and both exceed the PS5's requirements, so there is no in-console speed difference between them.
What does officially licensed mean for the SN850P?
It means Sony has certified the drive for the PS5 and it ships with a heatsink designed to the bay's height envelope, guaranteeing a clean fit including on the Slim.
Can I use the cheaper SN850X in a PS5?
Yes. The SN850X fully meets the PS5 spec. Buy the heatsink version or add a low-profile M.2 heatsink so total height stays under 11.25 mm.
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Last updated: 2026-08-29 00:02:50 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.