How-to Install an SSD in the Original PlayStation 5

Features

PlayStation 5

By: Jason Siu

Published:

3 min read

Home » Features » How-to Install an SSD in the Original PlayStation 5
How-to add an SSD to the original PlayStation 5 console | Photo credit: Jason Siu, FullCleared

We prefer to run an ad-free site, so this post may contain affiliate links. If you wish to support us and use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Learn more here.

When the PlayStation 5 originally released in late 2020, there were some discussions around its 825 GB SSD and whether it would be adequate, especially considering you only get about 667 GB of usable storage space. Some games now require over 100 GB of storage, if not more, like with the upcoming Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which needs 150 GB. Fortunately, the PlayStation 5 makes storage expansion easy with a built-in expansion slot that can accommodate M.2 SSDs of various sizes. If you’re considering adding another SSD to expand your original PlayStation 5’s storage, this guide will be useful.

The following steps are for the original PlayStation 5, although the newer, slimmer version isn’t too different. Before starting, you’ll want to properly shut down your console and unplug all cables. Work on a clean mat and touch a metal-grounded object to discharge any static electricity from your body. You’ll need a #1 Phillips or cross-head screwdriver. If necessary, let your PlayStation 5 cool down before starting the work. The entire process to add an SSD to your original PlayStation 5 should take about 10 minutes in total.

1. Remove the Bottom Panel

How-to add an SSD to the original PlayStation 5 console

First, place your PlayStation 5 upside down on a flat surface, with the PlayStation logo facing down and the power button towards you. Gently grasp the top left corner of the cover and lift it up slightly; this shouldn’t require much effort. Then, slide it to the right, and the cover will come off.

2. Remove the Expansion Slot Cover

How-to add an SSD to the original PlayStation 5 console | Photo credit: Jason Siu, FullCleared

Once the cover is off, you’ll notice the expansion cover located at the bottom of the console. This cover is secured by a single screw at the top. Remove this screw to take off the expansion cover.

3. Remove Screw and Spacer

How-to add an SSD to the original PlayStation 5 console | Photo credit: Jason Siu, FullCleared

After removing the expansion cover, take out the screw and the spacer located beneath it. Position the spacer in the groove that corresponds to the size of your M.2 SSD.

4. Place Spacer in Correct Location

How-to add an SSD to the original PlayStation 5 console | Photo credit: Jason Siu, FullCleared

For our PlayStation 5, we chose the Samsung 990 PRO 1TB SSD with Heatsink, so we moved the spacer to the “80” slot.

5. Get Your SSD Ready

How-to add an SSD to the original PlayStation 5 console | Photo credit: Jason Siu, FullCleared

You’re now ready to install the new SSD. Start by removing it from its packaging. While there are numerous options available on the market, ensure that your chosen SSD is compatible with the PlayStation 5. We opted for the Samsung 990 Pro with Heatsink, primarily for its reliability and speed.

6. Carefully Insert SSD into Connector

How-to add an SSD to the original PlayStation 5 console | Photo credit: Jason Siu, FullCleared

Hold the edge of your SSD, align it with the notch on the connector, and insert it at a diagonal angle. Make sure the SSD sits flush on the spacer and is not obstructed by the cooling structure.

7. Install Screw and Reassemble

How-to add an SSD to the original PlayStation 5 console | Photo credit: Jason Siu, FullCleared

Once you’ve verified everything is correct, tilt the SSD down and secure it to the spacer using the screw. Again, ensure that the cooling structure does not obstruct the screw. Then, reattach the expansion slot cover and replace the PlayStation 5’s cover. If you run into issues getting the expansion slot cover to fit properly, it’s likely the cooling structure on your SSD is too big.

After reconnecting everything and powering up the PlayStation 5, follow the on-screen instructions to format the SSD, so it can start storing those massive PlayStation 5 games.

Like our content?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get video game news, features, and deals straight to your inbox.

This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to the newsletter indicates your consent to our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletter at any time.

With over 20 years in online publishing, Jason Siu is the Community Director at Autoverse Studios, where he also contributes to the design and development of Auto Legends. His extensive background includes serving as Content Director at VerticalScope and writing about cars for prominent sites like AutoGuide, The Truth About Cars, EV Pulse, FlatSixes, and Tire Authority. As a co-founder of Tunerzine.com and former West Coast Editor of Modified Magazine, Jason has also authored two books for CarTech Books. In his spare time, he founded FullCleared to channel his passion for gaming, with a particular fondness for RPGs.

Latest News