Last November the Sony PlayStation 5 was released. A long-awaited next-generation console, but with insufficient storage causing shortages. Although the Japanese giant is trying to meet the strong demand, scalpers are in charge of putting sticks in the wheels by grabbing the supplies using bots and other unscrupulous tools. But for the lucky ones who were able to get their hands on it, now finally comes a feature that has been expected for months.
PS5 Beta Software lets users upgrade their internal SSD Storage
In early November, the helicopter fell on the heads of future PlayStation 5 owners, the next-generation console would have limited storage space at launch. Sony then hinted that support for external storage spaces would be implemented later. Months have passed and the biggest players have been impatient, eager to expand the storage space to install new games, without having to delete the current ones in the process. It looks like the lights are all in green on Sony, the manufacturer just announced that users of the beta version of the PS5 operating system will soon have the option to add an internal M.2 SSD expansion.
With this update, players will be able to benefit from the storage space that will give them access to an expected feature: the installation of games on an external storage space and the ability to run them directly from this SSD. But, of course, the conditions are present and, beware, the list is long. To better inform interested gamers, Sony has published an extensive FAQ in which it responds as best as possible. Therefore, your SSD must have:
- Interface: M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD
- Capacity: 250 GB to 4 TB
- Cooling structure: To use an M.2 solid-state drive with your PS5 console, you must have an efficient heat dissipation system that has a cooling structure, such as a heat sink. You can add one yourself to your M.2 SSD, either one-sided or two-sided. There are also M.2 SSDs with built-in cooling structures (such as heatsinks).
- Sequential read speed: A speed of at least 5,500 MB/s is recommended
- Module width: 22 mm (25 mm wide discs are not supported)
- Format: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 and 22110 (type M.2).
- Plug type: Take 3 (M key)
- Total dimensions with cooling structure:
In millimeters: less than 110 mm (length) x 25 mm (width) x 11.25 mm (height).
In inches: less than 4.33 ” (length) x 0.984 ” (width) x 0.442 ” (height) - Long : M.2 SSDs of the following lengths are
compatible with PS5 consoles: 30mm, 42mm, 60mm, 80mm, 110mm (depending on format type, as shown above). - Width : A 22mm wide M.2 SSD module is required.
The total structure (including the additional cooling structure) should not exceed 25 mm (0.984 in). - Height : The total height of the M.2 solid-state drive and its cooling structure (e.g., a heatsink), whether the latter is integrated or added separately, must be less than 11.25 mm (0.442 inches). The height should also be adequate, depending on the circuit board of the M.2 solid-state drive: the space under the card should be less than 2.45 mm (0.096 inches) and the total space above the card should be less than 8 mm. (0.314 in.). Note: Values in millimeters are the norm and are more accurate than those inches.
Obviously, these lengthy conditions do not occur on their own. Therefore, it will also be necessary to know that “M.2 SATA SSDs are not supported” and that “Not all games will necessarily enjoy the same performance as the ultra-fast internal SSD of the PS5 console, even if the sequential read speed of the M.2 SSD device exceeds 5500 MB / s”. Furthermore, “Most M.2 SSD devices with the above type numbers (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 and 22110, type key M) without any built-in cooling structure will fit into the SSD slot of the PS5 console. However, the dimensions of the cooling structures (such as heat sinks) vary significantly”.
And if, sadly, you still want to try your luck thinking outside the box, you should know that Sony opens up: “SIE makes no warranty as to the performance of M.2 SSD devices that meet the prescribed specifications with its console, and accepts no responsibility for the selection, performance or use of third-party products.” After this announcement, it is likely that compatible SSDs will be swept up. Let’s hope another shortage doesn’t surface. For your part, do you plan to increase the storage space of your PS5 by installing an external SSD? Feel free to answer us via the comments below.
