Upgrading Your PS5’s M.2 Drive: A Simple Guide

Storage can be a real headache, especially with the massive sizes of modern games. Even if you’re using an M.2 drive, you might find yourself needing more space. Thankfully, upgrading your PS5’s M.2 drive is a relatively simple process, and prices have become much more reasonable.

Why You Can’t Just Plug and Play

You might think you could just take out your PS5’s M.2 drive, pop it into a USB enclosure, and transfer your games to a new drive. Unfortunately, Sony doesn’t support this direct transfer method yet. Hopefully, they’ll address this issue in the future.

Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrading Your PS5’s M.2 Drive

Here’s a breakdown of how to upgrade your PS5’s M.2 drive:

1. Transfer Your Data

Before you start, back up your existing data. You have two options:

• Transfer to internal storage: If you have enough space on your internal drive, you can transfer your games and media there.
• Transfer to an external USB drive: A USB 3.0 drive with at least 10 gigabits per second speed and at least 250GB of space is recommended. Make sure your external drive is formatted correctly according to PS5 guidelines.

2. Power Down and Remove the Plates

Once your data is safely backed up, power down your PS5. You can then easily pop off the plates covering the M.2 slot. There are plenty of videos available online, including on my channel, to guide you through this process.

3. Install Your New Drive

Insert your new M.2 drive. Make sure you choose a drive that is compatible with the PS5 and has a built-in heatsink. I’m using the Kingston Renegade Drive in this video, which offers excellent performance.

4. Power On and Format

Power on your PS5. The system should recognize the new M.2 drive and prompt you to format it. It might even format automatically. The PS5 will also display the read speed of your new drive.

5. Transfer Games Back

Now that the new M.2 drive is ready, you can transfer your games back from either your internal drive or the external USB drive. Keep in mind that PS5 games can only be stored on internal storage or an M.2 drive. However, PS4 games can be kept on an external USB drive.

Bonus Tip: Refreshing Your PS5’s Look

While you’re upgrading your M.2 drive, consider giving your PS5 a makeover. You can easily swap out the PS5’s faceplates to add a fresh look! There are officially licensed covers available in various colors and designs.

Key Considerations for Choosing an M.2 Drive

• Compatibility: Ensure that the drive is compatible with the PS5.
• Speed: Opt for a drive with high read speeds, as this significantly impacts game loading times.
• Size: Choose a drive with enough storage space for your games and other data.
• Built-in Heat Sink: Look for a drive with a built-in heatsink to prevent overheating.

More PS5 Tips and Tricks

There’s much more to discover about the PS5 than just its M.2 drive. Check out my other videos, including a comprehensive guide with over 20 helpful tips and tricks to optimize your console experience.

Conclusion

Upgrading your PS5’s M.2 drive is a simple and effective way to improve your experience with the console. By following these steps and choosing a reliable drive, you can enjoy more storage space, faster loading times, and a smoother gaming experience.