Gamers often find themselves needing more storage space to keep up with the ever-increasing size of modern games. If you’re a PlayStation 5 (PS5) owner, understanding your storage options and how to expand them is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about PS5 storage, focusing on how much space you actually have and how to maximize it.
Understanding PS5 Storage Capacity
The PS5 comes in two models: the standard version with an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive and the Digital Edition, which lacks a disc drive. Both models are equipped with an 825GB Solid State Drive (SSD). However, the actual usable storage is less than 825GB due to the space occupied by the system software.
So, How Much Storage Does A Ps5 Have available for your games and apps? After accounting for the operating system and pre-installed software, you’re left with approximately 667GB of usable storage. While this might seem like a decent amount, today’s AAA games can easily exceed 100GB, quickly filling up your storage space.
Image showing the M.2 SSD expansion slot, used to upgrade the internal storage of the PlayStation 5 console.
Internal vs. External Storage: What’s the Difference?
To effectively manage your PS5 storage, it’s important to understand the difference between internal and external storage options.
Internal Storage
Internal storage refers to the built-in SSD that comes with the PS5. This high-speed SSD is crucial for the console’s fast loading times and overall performance. As mentioned earlier, the internal storage capacity is limited to the original size of the drive, around 667GB usable.
External Storage
External storage involves connecting external devices to your PS5 to store additional games and data. You can use external USB hard drives or SSDs. While you can store and play PS4 games directly from an external drive, you cannot play PS5 games directly from external storage. You must transfer them to the internal SSD to play them.
How to Increase Your PS5 Storage
Running out of space on your PS5 can be frustrating. Here are several ways to expand your storage capacity:
1. External USB Hard Drive or SSD
Connecting an external USB drive is the simplest way to expand your storage. You can store and play PS4 games, media files, and applications from the external drive, freeing up space on your internal SSD for PS5 games.
- Pros: Affordable, easy to set up.
- Cons: Cannot play PS5 games directly from the drive, speeds may be slower than internal SSD.
2. Manage Your Game Library
Regularly review your installed games and delete those you no longer play. You can always re-download them from the PlayStation Store if you want to play them again in the future.
- Pros: Free, simple way to free up space.
- Cons: Requires manual effort, may need to re-download games later.
3. PlayStation Plus Cloud Storage
PlayStation Plus subscribers have access to cloud storage for game saves. This allows you to back up your game progress and free up space on your console by deleting games without losing your save data.
- Pros: Safeguards game progress, allows for easy game deletion.
- Cons: Requires a PlayStation Plus subscription, does not expand storage for game installations.
4. M.2 SSD Expansion Slot
The PS5 features an M.2 SSD expansion slot, allowing you to add a compatible NVMe SSD for additional internal storage. This is the most effective way to increase your PS5’s storage capacity and maintain its high-speed performance.
- Pros: Increases internal storage, maintains fast loading times.
- Cons: Requires purchasing a compatible SSD, installation can be complex.
5. Upgrade Your Internal Hard Drive
For tech-savvy users, upgrading the internal SSD of your PS5 is an option. This involves replacing the existing SSD with a larger, compatible drive. However, this upgrade can void your warranty and requires technical expertise.
- Pros: Significantly increases internal storage, potential for faster speeds.
- Cons: Can void warranty, requires technical expertise, more complex than other options.
Upgrading Your PS5 Internal Storage: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you decide to upgrade your internal SSD, here’s what you need to know:
What You’ll Need:
- A compatible PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 SSD with a heatsink. Sony recommends a drive with a capacity of 250GB to 4TB and a sequential read speed of at least 5500MB/s.
- A #1 Phillips head screwdriver.
Disclaimer: Upgrading your internal SSD can void your warranty. If you’re not comfortable with the process, consider seeking help from a professional.
Steps:
- Remove the PS5 Cover: Power off your PS5, disconnect all cables, and place it on a clean, flat surface. Remove the side panel by sliding it down and off.
- Locate the Expansion Slot: Remove the screw covering the expansion slot.
- Install the SSD: Remove the screw and spacer holding the SSD in place. Insert the new SSD into the slot, secure it with the screw and spacer.
- Replace the Cover: Reattach the expansion slot cover and the PS5 side panel.
- Format the SSD: Connect your PS5 to power and your display. Turn on the console, and you’ll be prompted to format the new SSD. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the formatting process.
Conclusion
Understanding how much storage does a PS5 have and how to manage it is essential for any gamer. While the initial 667GB of usable storage might seem sufficient, expanding your storage is often necessary to accommodate the growing size of modern games. Whether you choose to use an external drive, manage your game library, or upgrade your internal SSD, there are plenty of options to ensure you have enough space for all your favorite games.
