Best External Hard Drive for PS5 2025: Ultimate Guide

The PlayStation 5 (PS5) offers exceptional performance, stunning graphics, and fast load times, but with the increasing size of game files, the built-in storage may not be enough for many players. Thankfully, external hard drives are a simple solution to expand storage, providing the necessary space for more games, apps, and media without sacrificing speed or performance. In this guide, we’ll explore the best external hard drive for PS5 2025, detailing what to look for and reviewing the top options available.

Why Use an External Hard Drive for PS5?

The PS5 comes with an internal SSD offering a high-speed performance for games, but it has a limited storage capacity (825GB, with only 667GB usable). Many players find that they run out of space quickly, especially as modern games require upwards of 100GB of storage space. An external hard drive can help alleviate this problem, offering additional space without compromising the gaming experience.

However, not all external hard drives are suitable for PS5. Sony’s official guidelines recommend that external drives for PS5 should have at least USB 3.0 support, and when playing PS5 games directly, an NVMe SSD installed in a compatible M.2 slot is required. For storing and playing PS4 games, a regular external HDD or SSD can work, as long as it meets the PS5’s standards.

What to Look for in an External Hard Drive for PS5?

When choosing the best external hard drive for your PS5, here are the key factors to consider:

Compatibility: Ensure the hard drive is compatible with PS5, meeting the minimum USB 3.0 standard.
Storage Capacity: Consider the size of the drive based on how many games you plan to store. At least 1TB is recommended for extensive game libraries.
Speed: External SSDs (Solid-State Drives) are faster than traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) and offer quicker load times. While HDDs are more affordable, SSDs provide superior performance, especially for larger games.
Portability: If you plan on traveling or moving your PS5, a portable hard drive will make it easier to carry your game library around.
Brand Reputation and Warranty: Opt for reputable brands that offer a good warranty, ensuring long-lasting quality and support.

Best External Hard Drives for PS5 in 2025

Here are the top external hard drives for your PS5:

1. Seagate Game Drive for PS5 (2TB)

Type: HDD
Capacity: 2TB
Speed: 5400 RPM
Price: Affordable

The Seagate Game Drive is a top contender for PS5 owners looking for a budget-friendly solution. Offering 2TB of storage, it’s an excellent option for storing PS4 games, media, and even some PS5 games. The drive is officially licensed by Sony, ensuring compatibility and optimized performance for PS5 gaming.

2. Western Digital Black P10 (5TB)

Type: HDD
Capacity: 5TB
Speed: 7200 RPM
Price: Mid-range

The Western Digital Black P10 is one of the best external HDDs for PS5 users looking for massive storage. With 5TB of space and a 7200 RPM speed, it provides fast enough load times for PS4 games, media, and more. The P10 is known for its durability and reliability, making it a solid choice for gamers.

3. Samsung T7 Portable SSD (1TB)

Type: SSD
Capacity: 1TB
Speed: 1050 MB/s read, 1000 MB/s write
Price: High-end

The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is a fast and reliable storage option that offers incredibly fast load times, making it perfect for storing and playing PS5 games that don’t require running from the internal SSD. The sleek and portable design makes it easy to take on the go, and its USB 3.2 interface ensures excellent speed.

4. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD (1TB)

Type: SSD
Capacity: 1TB
Speed: 1050 MB/s read, 1000 MB/s write
Price: High-end

The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD offers top-tier performance with rugged durability. Its 1TB capacity and USB 3.2 interface provide super-fast load speeds, ideal for PS5 gamers who want quick access to their games. Its IP55 rating for water and dust resistance adds an extra layer of protection, making it a great portable solution.

5. Crucial X8 Portable SSD (1TB)

Type: SSD
Capacity: 1TB
Speed: 1050 MB/s read, 1000 MB/s write
Price: Mid-range

The Crucial X8 Portable SSD delivers high-speed performance at an affordable price point. With read and write speeds of 1050 MB/s, it’s perfect for quick game load times and smooth performance. It’s a durable, compact external SSD that works well for PS5, especially if you’re on a budget but want SSD-level performance.

Conclusion: The Best External Hard Drive for PS5 in 2025

If you’re seeking a PS5 external storage solution, both HDDs and SSDs can meet your needs depending on your preference for speed and capacity. For those on a budget, the Seagate Game Drive offers great value, while the Samsung T7 Portable SSD and SanDisk Extreme SSD offer the best performance and speed. For the most storage, the Western Digital Black P10 is a fantastic option.

When choosing the best external hard drive for your PS5 in 2025, ensure compatibility with your needs and budget, and you’ll have a seamless gaming experience.