PS5 M.2 SSD storage expansion support launches into beta

Installation instructions and requirements are also live

Sony is rolling out support for the PlayStation 5’s M.2 SSD storage expansion to beta users today. This means those opted into the beta program can start to use M.2 SSDs to add more storage onto their PS5, though there are some requirements.

Sony’s support site details the necessary specs for an M.2 SSD to drop into a PlayStation 5. While noting this is a beta, and final specifications may change ahead of the official software update adding this to everyone’s PS5, anyone taking part in the beta now will need to stick to these requirements.

It requires a PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD, with capacity anywhere from 250GB to 4TB. Sony also notes that using an M.2 SSD with a PS5 console requires effective heat dissipation with a cooling structure, like a heatsink, so you’ll need to either attach one yourself or get an M.2 SSD that has one built in.

The height, width, and length are also crucial, as well as the socket type. Sony also notes that “not all games are necessarily playable with exact same performance provided by the PS5 console’s internal Ultra-High Speed SSD,” even if the M.2 SSD’s sequential read speed is faster than 5500MB/s.

Alongside the listed requirements, The Verge tested out a Corsair MP600 (with a heatsink) and found it works fine. Seagate has also announced that the FireCuda 530 will work with the PlayStation 5. If you want to sign up for the PS5 system software beta, you can do so over here.

The news of expanded storage eventually arriving on the PS5 is good, speaking as someone who owns and plays a fair number of games on it. I’ve already had to play some storage space Tetris with its internal storage, while Xbox owners have enjoyed the comfort of just slotting in their extra storage options. Hopefully this beta indicates that a full launch, and a full list of compatible options, is on the horizon.