Finding the right external hard drive for your PS5 is crucial to ensure quick access to your favorite games without sacrificing performance. In 2024, with game file sizes continuously growing, an external hard drive becomes a necessity for all avid gamers.
Quick List :
- 1. WD_Black P10 Game Drive:
- 2. Seagate Game Drive for PS5:
- 3. Samsung T7 Shield:
- 4. Crucial X8 Portable SSD:
- 5. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD:
- SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD (Amazon)
| Feature | PS5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Release Date | November 12, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CPU | Custom AMD Zen 2-based 8-core CPU | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| GPU | Custom AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based 10.3 TFLOPs GPU | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| RAM | 16 GB GDDR6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Storage | Custom 825 GB SSD | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Expandable Storage | Yes, via M.2 SSD slot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Optical Drive | No | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dimensions | 15.1″ x 10.2″ x 4.1″ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Weight | 9.9 lbs | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Price | From $499 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase Link | Amazon | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Overview of the necessity for external hard drives for PS5
The built-in storage of the PS5 fills up quickly, especially with larger titles taking up to 100GB or more. Consequently, gamers seek external hard drives to store games, game saves, and media files without overwhelming the console’s internal storage. Whether you opt for WD_Black P10 Game Drive or Samsung T7 Shield, expanding your storage ensures seamless gameplay.
Comparison of expansion storage vs. extended storage
Expansion storage typically refers to drives that can be used interchangeably with multiple consoles, while extended storage is often reserved for specific devices like the Seagate Game Drive for PS5. While both serve the purpose of providing additional space, extended storage tends to boast higher compatibility with a single device but may limit cross-platform usage.
| Feature | Expansion Storage | Extended Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Multiple consoles and PCs | Specific consoles |
| Flexibility | High flexibility | Device-specific |
| Example | SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD | Seagate Game Drive for PS5 |
Top Picks for Best PS5 External Hard Drives
WD_Black P10 Game Drive
The WD_Black P10 Game Drive stands out as a solid option for gamers looking to store a large library of PS5 games.
- Storage capacity: 2TB, 4TB, 5TB, 8TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Dimensions: 118.5 x 88.5 x 12.8 mm
- Weight: 230g
- Read speed: Up to 140 MB/s
- Write speed: Up to 120 MB/s
- Compatibility: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
- Features: Fast loading times, durable design
Gamers looking for reliability and substantial storage can count on the WD_Black P10 Game Drive. Its various capacities, ranging from 2TB up to 8TB, cater to different storage needs.
Seagate Game Drive for PS5
An officially licensed product, the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 offers optimal performance and compatibility.
- Storage capacity: 2TB, 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Dimensions: 99 x 96 x 20 mm
- Weight: 230g
- Read speed: Up to 110 MB/s
- Write speed: Up to 105 MB/s
- Compatibility: PS5 only
- Features: Officially licensed by PlayStation, compact size
This drive’s key selling point is its official licensing, ensuring full compatibility and seamless performance with the PS5. It is a compact and highly portable option for PlayStation gamers.
Samsung T7 Shield
The Samsung T7 Shield offers the fastest transfer speeds among the external hard drives, making it an excellent pick for gamers focused on speed.
- Storage capacity: 1TB, 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Dimensions: 85 x x57 13 mm
- Weight: 98g
- Read speed: Up to 1,050 MB/s
- Write speed: Up to 1,000 MB/s
- Compatibility: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Mac
- Features: Fast NVMe SSD speeds, IP65 water and dust resistance
If speed is your priority, then the Samsung T7 Shield provides unmatched read and write speeds, ensuring your games load almost instantly.
Crucial X8 Portable SSD
For those seeking portability combined with high-speed performance, the Crucial X8 Portable SSD is an excellent choice.
- Storage capacity: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Dimensions: 64 x 64 x 11 mm
- Weight: 69g
- Read speed: Up to 1,050 MB/s
- Write speed: Up to 1,000 MB/s
- Compatibility: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Mac
- Features: Compact design, fast transfer speeds
Its compact design makes the Crucial X8 Portable SSD a highly portable option without compromising on speed.
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD combines durability with top-notch performance, suitable for gamers on the go.
- Storage capacity: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Dimensions: 100 x 49 x 10 mm
- Weight: 112g
- Read speed: Up to 1,050 MB/s
- Write speed: Up to 1,000 MB/s
- Compatibility: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Mac
- Features: Water and dust resistance, shock-resistant design
This drive is a great blend of performance and durability, ideal for gamers who need a rugged and reliable external hard drive.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a PS5 External Hard Drive
Selecting the ideal external hard drive for your PS5 involves considering several factors. Below is a breakdown of key elements to guide your decision.
Storage capacity
Determine your storage needs based on the number of games and files you plan to store. Larger capacities, such as the WD_Black P10 Game Drive, cater well to extensive libraries.
Interface type
Choosing drives with USB 3.2 Gen 2 interfaces, like the Samsung T7 Shield, ensures faster data transfer speeds.
Read and write speeds
Higher read and write speeds lead to reduced game loading times. Options like the Crucial X8 Portable SSD offer excellent speed.
Compatibility
Make sure the drive is compatible with the PS5 and other devices you may use. The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is an example of a highly compatible option.
Dimensions and weight
Consider the drive’s size and weight if portability is a priority. Compact drives like the Crucial X8 Portable SSD are convenient for travel.
Durability and build quality
Opt for drives with robust design and additional features like water and dust resistance, as seen in the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD.
Additional features
Extra features like shock resistance enhance the drive’s durability and longevity, valuable for frequent travel or challenging environments.
Recommended External Hard Drives for Specific Needs
Best for large game libraries: WD_Black P10 Game Drive
Due to its expansive storage capacities, the WD_Black P10 Game Drive is ideal for gamers with large game libraries.
You can find more information on PS5 Price Guide 2024: Current Prices and Deals
Best for speed: Samsung T7 Shield
For those who prioritize speed, the Samsung T7 Shield offers unmatched performance with its high read and write speeds.
Best for portability: Crucial X8 Portable SSD
The Crucial X8 Portable SSD combines compact size and fast transfer speeds, making it the top choice for portability.
Best for value: Seagate Game Drive for PS5
Balancing cost and performance, the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 delivers great value for its price, especially with its official licensing.
Best for durability: SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD stands out for its rugged design, offering superb durability alongside excellent performance.
Read more about this on Best PS5 Bundles to Buy in 2024: Value for Money Options
Choosing the best external hard drive for your PS5 is vital for enhancing your gaming experience by providing additional storage and quick access to games.
Summary of key findings
- The WD_Black P10 Game Drive offers extensive storage for large game libraries.
- Speed seekers should consider the Samsung T7 Shield.
- For portability, Crucial X8 Portable SSD is unbeatable.
- Budget-conscious gamers will find the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 exceptional for its value.
- For the most rugged and durable choice, look no further than the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD.
Recommendations for different users
Identify your primary need—be it storage capacity, speed, or portability—and select a hard drive that meets those requirements. Each drive listed provides unique benefits tailored to different gaming needs.
Final thoughts on choosing the best PS5 external hard drive
investing in a reliable external hard drive like the WD_Black P10 or the Samsung T7 Shield ensures you never have to worry about running out of space. With many excellent options available, you can enjoy a seamless and expansive gaming experience on your PS5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these PS5 external hard drives compatible with other gaming consoles?
Most PS5 external hard drives are designed to work exclusively with PS5 consoles due to their specific requirements and features. It’s recommended to check the compatibility of the external hard drive with other gaming consoles before purchasing.
What is the ideal storage capacity for a PS5 external hard drive?
The ideal storage capacity for a PS5 external hard drive varies based on individual needs. However, a storage capacity of 2TB or higher is generally recommended to accommodate the large game files and updates of modern games.
Do these external hard drives require additional power sources?
Some PS5 external hard drives may require additional power sources to function properly, especially if they have a high storage capacity. Make sure to check the power requirements of the external hard drive before connecting it to your PS5 console.
Can these external hard drives improve the loading times of games on PS5?
Yes, high-quality external hard drives with fast read/write speeds can help improve the loading times of games on PS5 by offering faster data transfer rates compared to the internal storage of the console.
What factors should I consider when choosing a PS5 external hard drive?
When choosing a PS5 external hard drive, consider factors such as storage capacity, read/write speeds, compatibility with the PS5 console, and any additional features (such as RGB lighting or hardware encryption) that may enhance your gaming experience.
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