PS5 update: Sony confirms M.2 SSD expansion support goes live on beta, but not all cards are supported

The ability to expand PS5’s SSD capacity is finally getting closer to launch for everyone as Sony released the feature for beta users on Thursday. However, console users are highly advised to read the entire support page Sony has recently published to make sure they are getting the right drive.

M.2 SSD expansion is not as simple as plugging a typical external drive onto a port, but the results may be worth it. Before buying an external drive, it is important to check all the requirements Sony listed on a new support page to see what M.2 SSDs will be compatible with the PS5.

The console can support PCIe Gen4 M.2 SSDs with 450GB to 4TB capacity. While Sony did not set a minimum sequential read speed, they recommend getting a drive that can perform at 5,500MB/s or faster. PS5 will not support 25mm drives, so gamers should look for M.2 SSDs with 22m module width.

Another important thing to check when buying an M.2 SSD for PS5 is the form factor type. Users should look for drives that are compatible with 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, and 22110 arrays. PS5 will not support M.2 SATA SSDs.

Sony has emphasized the importance of reading through all the M.2 SSD requirements on the support page before PS5 beta users go out and purchase an expansion drive. However, despite the detailed list of specifications Sony provided, the company said, “SIE cannot guarantee that all M.2 SSD devices meeting the described specifications will work with your console and assumes no responsibility for the selection, performance, or use of third-party products.”

Given how M.2 SSDs are installed, adding a compatible drive to expand PS5’s storage will also require extra effort than most gamers are used to. Those who are registered as PS5 beta testers, Sony provided a 12-step guide on how to install a compatible expansion drive.

Right now, all PS5 users can use external drives via USB but only PS4 games stored in it can be played on the console. While they can store PS5 games in it, they will have to copy it first to the main SSD storage so they can run it on the hardware. But with M.2 SSDs, PS4 and PS5 games can be directly updated and will be playable.

Photo by Ben Iwara on Unsplash