Hey, fellow gamer! ๐ Running out of space on your PS5 internal SSD? Dreaming of installing massive games like the latest blockbusters without constant deletes? Upgrading your PS5 SSD is a game-changer, adding terabytes of lightning-fast storage. Whether you're removing the PS5 internal SSD for troubleshooting or replacing it with a beastly M.2 drive, this guide has you covered. We'll keep it simple, safe, and excitingโno tech degree required!
Why upgrade your PS5 SSD? The stock 825GB SSD fills up fast. A compatible upgrade lets you store 4TB+ of games, load times stay ultra-fast (thanks to PCIe 4.0), and it's officially supported by Sony. Ready to level up? Let's dive in! โก
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What You Need: Tools and Compatible SSDs
Before touching your PS5, gather these essentials. Patience is keyโrushing leads to mishaps.
| Item |
Details |
Why? |
| Compatible M.2 SSD |
PCIe 4.0, 5500MB/s read, 2230-2280 size, with heatsink (e.g., WD Black SN850X, Samsung 990 Pro) |
Sony specs for no throttling |
| Phillips #1 Screwdriver |
Precision tip |
Only tool needed! |
| Anti-static wrist strap (optional) |
Or touch grounded metal |
Protects SSD from ESD |
| Clean workspace |
Soft cloth/mat |
Avoids scratches |
Pro Tip: Check Sony's latest compatibility list via their official PS5 SSD support page. Stars like Seagate FireCuda 530 or Corsair MP600 are gamer favorites for reliability and speed. ๐ฎ
โ ๏ธ Safety First: Prep Your PS5
- ๐ Power down completely: Hold power button 10 seconds until second beep. Unplug AC cord and HDMI.
- ๐งน Clear dust: Use compressed air on vents.
- โณ Wait 10-15 mins: Let internals cool.
- ๐ฑ Back up data: Cloud saves or USB external drive (Settings > System > Back Up and Restore).
Got it? Your PS5 is now upgrade-ready. No warranty voidedโSony encourages this! ๐
Step-by-Step: How to Remove the PS5 Internal SSD ๐ ๏ธ
Perfect for diagnosing failures or prepping for a new drive. Works for original PS5 and PS5 Slim (Slim has slight base differences).
- Position PS5: Lay horizontally on soft surface, disc drive facing right (or Slim model upright).
- ๐ช Remove base screw: One Phillips screw on back left. Slide base off.
- ๐ Locate SSD slot: Metal shield above PCIe slot, secured by blue screw.
- โจ Unscrew blue retainer: Tiny Phillips #1 screwโdon't strip it! Slide retainer left.
- โก๏ธ Extract SSD: Angle at 30ยฐ and gently pull. BoomโSSD out! Store safely.
If stuck? Never force. Check for hidden clips. Congratsโyou've mastered PS5 internal SSD removal! ๐
Masterclass: How to Replace the PS5 Internal SSD (Upgrade Time!)
Now the fun part: Slotting in your shiny new SSD for epic storage gains.
- โ
Prep new SSD: Heatsink pre-attached? Good. Align gold contacts.
- โฉ๏ธ Insert SSD: 30ยฐ angle into slot until it seats. Push down firmly.
- ๐ฉ Secure retainer: Slide right, tighten blue screw (snug, not overtight).
- ๐๏ธ Reattach shield/base: Reverse removal steps.
- ๐ Power on: Boot to safe mode if needed (hold power button).
PS5 detects the drive automatically. Head to Settings > Storage > Extended Storage > Format as Internal (wipes dataโback up first!). Install games galore! ๐
PS5 Slim Specifics: Quick Tweaks
Slim models? Same process, but:
- No base slideโlift feet, remove four screws.
- SSD slot identical.
Pro: Easier access. Con: None! ๐
โ Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Hit a snag? We've got fixes:
- ๐ฅ SSD not detected: Reseat, check compatibility, update firmware.
- ๐ฅ Overheating: Ensure heatsink (mandatory per Sony).
- โ๏ธ Blue screen/boot loop: Reformat in safe mode (hold power > Option 5).
- โ Warranty worry: Sealed with sticker? Breaks void itโbut upgrades don't.
| Error |
Fix |
| Not recognized |
1๏ธโฃ Power cycle 2๏ธโฃ Format 3๏ธโฃ Test another SSD |
| Slow speeds |
Use PCIe 4.0 onlyโno Gen3! |
| Stuck screw |
Proper screwdriver + lubricant |
Still stuck? Sony support or forums like Reddit's r/PS5 await. ๐
๐ Best SSD Picks for PS5 (Latest Recommendations)
- โญ WD Black SN850X 4TB: Blazing 7000MB/s, affordable.
- ๐ Samsung 990 Pro 2TB: Reliable, with heatsink bundle.
- ๐ฐ Seagate FireCuda 530 1TB: Budget king, Sony-tested.
Shop smartโprices drop with new releases. Your library expands endlessly!
Final Boss: Enjoy Your Upgraded PS5! ๐ฎ
There you have itโthe definitive how to remove or replace the PS5 internal SSD. You've unlocked god-tier storage, slashed load times, and flexed tech skills. Next up: Raid that backlog! Questions? Drop in comments. Game on, legends! ๐
Stay frostyโalways double-check Sony's site for firmware updates.