Running out of space for GTA VI? Don't panic. Here is the definitive, no-nonsense guide to upgrading your PlayStation 5 storage in 2026.
By The Lead Hardware Editor
EasyDriveCompare.com
It’s a familiar story: You sit down to play the latest AAA blockbuster (maybe it's GTA VI or the newest Call of Duty), only to be hit with the dreaded message: "Not enough free space."
Modern games are massive. With titles regularly exceeding 150GB, the base PS5's usable 667GB fills up in the blink of an eye. But here is the good news: upgrading your storage is cheaper and easier than ever. You can compare the best PS5 SSD prices and quadruple your space in about 10 minutes with nothing more than a screwdriver.
Jump straight to our live price comparison tool.
Not every drive fits a PS5. To avoid buying a paperweight, your new SSD needs to meet these specific 2026 standards. Popular compatible models include the Samsung 990 Pro and WD Black SN850X.
Original Insight: Why the Heatsink Matters
Think of the heatsink like a radiator for your car. The PS5's expansion slot has very limited airflow. Without a heatsink, these high-speed drives can get incredibly hot, causing them to "thermal throttle" (slow down) to prevent damage. Always ensure you look for heatsink versions or buy one pre-installed.
Technical specs are boring. Let's talk in real terms: games.
~£80 - £100
Stores about 15-20 AAA games. Good for upgrading the base storage and keeping a healthy rotation.
~£130 - £160
Stores about 30-40 AAA games. This is what we recommend for most UK gamers. Doubles your console timeline.
£300+
For the digital hoarders who never want to delete a game again. Luxury, but satisfying.
Nervous about opening your console? Don't be. It's designed to be opened.
Make sure your PS5 system software is up to date. Then, power down the console completely (not Rest Mode) and unplug all cables. Touch a metal object to ground yourself.
Place the PS5 flat on a table, logo side down (disc drive facing top-right if you have one). Grip the top-left corner of the cover, lift gently, and slide it towards the bottom. It should pop off with a satisfying click.
You’ll see a rectangular metal cover held by one screw. Remove it.
Inside the slot, there is a small metal spacer (ring) and a screw. You MUST move the spacer to the hole labeled "80" (for most drives). Do NOT place the SSD directly on top of the screw holes without the spacer underneath, or you will snap the drive in half when you tighten it.
Insert your new SSD into the connector at a 30-degree angle. It only fits one way. Press down gently until it lies flat on the spacer. Use the screw to lock it in place.
Replace the metal cover screw. Slide the plastic PS5 cover back on until it clicks. Plug in, turn on, and follow the on-screen prompt to format your new M.2 SSD.
Changes in testing environments mean the PS5's internal benchmark often reads lower than PC benchmarks. As long as it's above 5,500 MB/s, the real-world difference in load times is fractions of a second.
Only for playing PS4 games or "cold storage" (storing PS5 games you aren't playing). You cannot play PS5 games directly from a USB drive; they are too slow.
The Sony screws can be soft. If stripped, try placing a wide rubber band between the screwdriver and the screw head for grip, or use a pair of precision pliers to twist it loose.
Upgrading your PS5 storage is one of the best quality-of-life improvements you can make. Unlock the ability to keep your entire library ready to play.
Check Live PS5 SSD Prices