Lexar 1TB NM790 NVMe SSD w/Heatsink
4.8Editor score
7400MB/s maximum read speed
Integrated thermal management design
1TB gaming storage capacity
In this guide
A PS5 SSD heatsink helps manage the heat generated by a high-speed NVMe drive while preserving the console's available expansion space. The right solution depends on whether you want a complete, officially licensed SSD upgrade, a performance-focused M.2 drive, or an add-on cooler for an existing compatible drive.
The products in this guide were compared using the supplied specifications, compatibility statements, thermal features, rated capacities, and customer ratings. The list covers full SSD-and-heatsink packages, a PS5-specific replacement cover, and universal add-on heat sinks, so it serves different upgrade paths rather than treating every product as a direct substitute.
Each review explains the cooling approach, performance figures, installation considerations, and best use case for the product. Rankings reflect the information available for this guide, while prices and availability change frequently, so confirm current product details before making a purchase.
Top 3 Picks for Best PS5 SSD Heatsinks
WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P NVMe M.2 SSD
4.8Editor score
Officially licensed PS5 expansion
PS5-specific optimized heatsink
Up to 7300MB/s read speed
Samsung 990 PRO 2TB w/Heatsink
4.7Editor score
Up to 7450MB/s read speed
2TB high-capacity gaming storage
Ultra-slim PS5-compatible heatsink
Top 10 Best PS5 SSD Heatsinks in 2026 Compared
The comparison below separates complete PS5 storage upgrades from standalone cooling accessories, making it easier to identify the right option for a new console or an existing M.2 SSD installation.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
Lexar 1TB NM790
1TB storage capacity
7400MB/s maximum read
6500MB/s maximum write
1000TBW endurance rating
4.8Editor score
Editor's Choice
WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P
1TB storage capacity
7300MB/s maximum read
Officially licensed for PS5
PS5-specific optimized heatsink
4.8Editor score
Best Premium
Samsung 990 PRO 2TB
2TB storage capacity
7450MB/s maximum read
6900MB/s maximum write
Ultra-slim integrated heatsink
4.7Editor score
SABRENT M.2 NVMe PS5 Heatsink
Standalone PS5 heat sink
CNC-machined aluminum construction
Replaces native expansion cover
Includes installation hardware
4.8Editor score
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P
2TB storage capacity
7300MB/s maximum read
Officially licensed for PS5
PS5-specific optimized heatsink
4.8Editor score
fanxiang 1TB S880ER
1TB storage capacity
7000MB/s maximum read
3900MB/s maximum write
PS5 and DirectStorage support
4.6Editor score
SIX X7400 1TB
1TB storage capacity
7350MB/s maximum read
PCIe Gen4x4 interface
Five-year limited warranty
4.6Editor score
Lexar 4TB NM790
4TB storage capacity
7400MB/s maximum read
6500MB/s maximum write
3000TBW endurance rating
4.8Editor score
M.2 Double-Sided Heatsink
Standalone M.2 heat sink
Aluminum alloy construction
2280 single-sided compatibility
10–20°C cooling effect
4.6Editor score
Lexar 2TB NM790
2TB storage capacity
7400MB/s maximum read
6500MB/s maximum write
1500TBW endurance rating
4.8Editor score
1. Lexar 1TB NM790 – Best Overall PS5 SSD Heatsink
Lexar 1TB NM790
1TB storage capacity
7400MB/s maximum read
6500MB/s maximum write
1000TBW endurance rating
The Lexar 1TB NM790 combines a PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe drive with an integrated heatsink, giving buyers a complete storage upgrade in one package. It carries a 4.8 customer rating and advertises read speeds up to 7,400MB/s and write speeds up to 6,500MB/s. Those figures make it one of the most performance-focused options in this guide, even though it is not described as an officially licensed PS5 expansion product.
Pros
- Strong sequential performance
- Heatsink supports thermal control
- 1TB capacity suits many libraries
- HMB 3.0 supports smooth transfers
- Lower power design than cached rivals
Cons
- Not officially PS5-licensed
- Thermal fit should be confirmed
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Thermal management is the defining feature of this package. The included heatsink is intended to keep the drive cooler and improve power efficiency during sustained work. The NM790 also uses Host Memory Buffer 3.0, which activates available device memory as a cache to support smoother transfer performance, while its stated power consumption can be as much as 40 percent lower than DRAM cache-enabled PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.
The main trade-off is platform confidence. Unlike the WD_BLACK SN850P listings in this roundup, the Lexar package does not provide an official PlayStation 5 compatibility statement. It also offers less capacity than the 2TB and 4TB NM790 versions. Buyers should therefore confirm that the drive's physical dimensions, connector arrangement, and heatsink profile work with their console before ordering.
This is a strong recommendation for a player who wants high transfer speed and a thermal accessory without paying for a larger capacity. Its 1TB allocation is still substantial for modern games, and the integrated cooling gives the drive a more complete upgrade package than a bare SSD. For those comfortable verifying PS5 compatibility, it offers an appealing balance of speed, rating, and practicality.
Performance for Modern Game Libraries
With advertised sequential read speeds reaching 7,400MB/s, the NM790 is well suited to transferring and loading demanding games. Actual results in a console depend on the host device, workload, capacity, and operating conditions, so the headline figure should be treated as a maximum rather than a guaranteed application result.
Integrated Cooling and Power Efficiency
The integrated heatsink helps the drive dissipate heat, while the claimed reduction in power use makes the package interesting for compact systems. Together, these features are designed to support stable performance during extended gaming and demanding file operations.
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2. WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P – Best Officially Licensed PS5 Upgrade
WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P
1TB storage capacity
7300MB/s maximum read
Officially licensed for PS5
PS5-specific optimized heatsink
The WD_BLACK 1TB SN850P is built around a clear advantage: it is officially licensed storage expansion for PlayStation 5 consoles. The drive carries a 4.8 customer rating, reaches up to 7,300MB/s in read speed, and includes a new heatsink optimized for the console's M.2 expansion bay. That combination makes it the most straightforward choice for a user who values supported compatibility.
Pros
- Official PS5 compatibility statement
- Purpose-designed console heatsink
- High maximum read throughput
- Direct game storage support
- Simplified installation approach
Cons
- 1TB may suit modest libraries
- Performance varies with workload
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Rather than asking buyers to determine whether a generic drive and aftermarket cooler will fit, this package uses storage tested and approved for PS5 use. Its optimized heatsink is intended for straightforward installation, and the additional capacity lets games be stored and played directly from the expansion drive. That can reduce the need to transfer, delete, or repeatedly move content between internal and external storage.
Its main limitation is simply that 1TB may not suit every gamer. Larger game installs, retention of several blockbuster titles, and regular use of high-resolution media can fill the space quickly. The supplied listing also notes that read-speed results depend on the host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other variables, meaning console applications will not necessarily reach the maximum sequential figure.
For most buyers seeking a low-friction PS5 storage upgrade, this is the recommendation to favor. Official licensing reduces uncertainty, the heatsink is designed around the console, and the 7300MB/s maximum read speed fits the high-performance PCIe Gen 4 category. Buyers with large libraries should compare the 2TB version in the same product family.
Official Console Compatibility
The official license is the key reason to choose this SN850P over an unbranded or generic M.2 package. The listing identifies the drive as tested and approved for PS5 use, which can provide greater confidence in fit, operation, and intended use.
More Games Without Constant Transfers
Adding 1TB of internal storage gives installed games a permanent home away from the console's limited base storage. Direct play from the expansion drive can also reduce the inconvenience of repeatedly moving games between M.2 and external storage.
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3. Samsung 990 PRO 2TB – Best Premium High-Capacity PS5 Upgrade
Samsung 990 PRO 2TB
2TB storage capacity
7450MB/s maximum read
6900MB/s maximum write
Ultra-slim integrated heatsink
The Samsung 990 PRO 2TB is a high-end NVMe package aimed at users who want considerable storage capacity alongside strong performance. It has a 4.7 rating, supports sequential read speeds up to 7,450MB/s and write speeds up to 6,900MB/s, and includes an ultra-slim integrated heatsink explicitly described as compatible with PlayStation 5 and PCI-SIG D8 systems.
Pros
- Highest advertised read speed
- Roomy 2TB gaming capacity
- Ultra-slim heatsink design
- Improved random performance
- Broad workstation compatibility
Cons
- Rated slightly below leaders
- PS5 performance may be limited
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Samsung states that the 990 PRO delivers more than a 55 percent improvement in random performance compared with the 980 PRO. Random workloads are particularly relevant during active games, where assets may not be loaded in a simple sequential sequence. The large 2TB capacity is also a more comfortable starting point for modern game libraries than a smaller expansion drive.
The key caveat is that the PS5 is constrained by its own hardware and software environment, so a desktop drive's maximum headline speed does not guarantee an equally dramatic improvement in console game loading. The 4.7 rating also trails the 4.8 ratings assigned to several other products, although the difference is small and does not outweigh the capacity and specification advantages for the right buyer.
This drive is best recommended to PS5 owners who want a generous amount of internal game storage and have chosen the 990 PRO for its strong performance profile. The low-profile heatsink is designed to dissipate heat and stabilize operating temperature, making the complete package more attractive than adding cooling to a bare drive later.
High Random Performance for Active Games
Game loading often involves many small files and unpredictable access patterns. Samsung's claimed random-performance improvement over the 980 PRO makes the 990 PRO particularly relevant for workloads where quick access to scattered assets matters more than a single large sequential transfer.
Low-Profile Thermal Design
The ultra-slim integrated heatsink is designed to dissipate heat while fitting environments with limited clearance. Its stated PS5 compatibility makes it more relevant to console expansion than many full-height desktop cooling solutions.
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4. SABRENT M.2 NVMe PS5 Heatsink – Best Purpose-Built Replacement Cover
SABRENT M.2 NVMe PS5 Heatsink
Standalone PS5 heat sink
CNC-machined aluminum construction
Replaces native expansion cover
Includes thermal installation kit
The SABRENT SB-PSHS is a standalone PS5 heatsink rather than a complete SSD package, and it has earned a 4.8 customer rating. It is engineered for the console's expansion slot, where fit and airflow matter as much as raw thermal conductivity. Its aluminum construction and tailored shape distinguish it from generic double-sided M.2 coolers.
Pros
- Purpose-built for PS5
- Uses console airflow effectively
- Larger cooling surface design
- Even pressure through sandwich design
- Installation accessories included
Cons
- Requires compatible M.2 drive
- Does not add storage capacity
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The most interesting feature is that this heat sink replaces the console's native expansion cover rather than simply sitting beneath the original metal plate. Sabrent's stated rationale is that covering the drive with metal could trap heat, whereas the replacement design provides a larger surface and allows the native fan to contribute to cooling. A sandwich design is used to maintain even pressure across the SSD for consistent heat transfer.
This approach has obvious trade-offs. Buyers must already own a compatible M.2 SSD, and the product adds cooling rather than capacity. The installation guide, screws, and thermal tape are included, which helps, but the process is still more involved than choosing a complete licensed SSD-and-heatsink bundle. It is also specifically framed around the PS5 rather than general desktop use.
The SABRENT is a compelling choice for an existing PS5 owner who wants a dedicated console cooler and already has a suitable drive. It may also appeal to builders who want the replacement-cover airflow strategy instead of a conventional add-on plate. For a first-time upgrader, the bundled licensed options offer a simpler path.
Replacement Cover Clears the Expansion Bay
Replacing the native cover creates more room for the heat sink and supports airflow from the console's fan. That approach is more purpose-built for PS5 geometry than a standard desktop M.2 cooler placed over an already enclosed expansion area.
Consistent Contact Through Sandwich Design
The sandwich construction is intended to apply even pressure across the drive. Consistent contact between the drive, thermal interface, and aluminum heat sink can improve heat transfer compared with a loose or unevenly mounted plate.
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5. WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P – Best Licensed Upgrade for Larger Libraries
WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P
2TB storage capacity
7300MB/s maximum read
Officially licensed for PS5
PS5-specific optimized heatsink
The WD_BLACK 2TB SN850P takes the strengths of the officially licensed PS5 expansion concept and doubles the capacity. It has a 4.8 rating, up to 7,300MB/s read speed, and a new heatsink designed specifically for installation into a PS5 M.2 slot. It is a strong fit for owners who want room for several large games without constantly managing storage.
Pros
- Official PS5 storage license
- Roomy 2TB capacity
- Console-optimized thermal cover
- Direct play from expansion slot
- High sequential read speed
Cons
- Costs more than smaller capacity
- Console caps absolute performance
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The drive's stated benefits include direct play from the expansion bay, which can reduce the need to transfer games or delete content from the console's built-in storage. Its optimized heat sink is designed to work with the console, and the official license means the product has been positioned and tested for the intended system rather than relying on general M.2 compatibility alone.
The main trade-off is the cost associated with buying a larger-capacity, officially licensed package. A 2TB drive also does not create unlimited game room: large modern installs, updated files, saved data, and other content still require sensible storage management. Furthermore, the maximum read-speed figure is based on internal testing and may vary depending on the host and workload.
For a gamer who has already outgrown 1TB, this is likely the most balanced licensed choice in the guide. It combines a generous capacity with a purpose-built heat sink and explicit PS5 approval, avoiding much of the uncertainty that accompanies generic drives and aftermarket cooling hardware.
Practical Capacity for Large Games
Two terabytes offers more breathing room for modern titles than a 1TB expansion. It is a practical size for keeping multiple current-generation games installed, reducing the frequency of transfers to external storage.
Licensed Console Integration
Official licensing, console-specific cooling, and approved use give this package a more cohesive design than assembling an expansion from separate components. Buyers can approach the installation with greater confidence in intended compatibility.
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6. fanxiang 1TB S880ER – Best Feature-Rich Budget Expansion
fanxiang 1TB S880ER
1TB storage capacity
7000MB/s maximum read
3900MB/s maximum write
NVMe 2.0 interface support
The fanxiang 1TB S880ER is a PCIe Gen 4×4 NVMe drive with a heat sink and explicit PS5 compatibility. It carries a 4.6 rating and advertises sequential speeds of up to 7,000MB/s read and 3,900MB/s write. It also supports NVMe 2.0 and is listed as compatible with DirectStorage, giving it a broader feature set for console and desktop buyers.
Pros
- PS5 and DirectStorage support
- Dedicated integrated heat sink
- Five-year after-sales service
- Lifetime technical support
- Broad platform compatibility
Cons
- Lower write speed than leaders
- Not compatible with Mac OS
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Its unique heat sink is intended to reduce drive temperature during extended gaming or intense data processing. The product description emphasizes the goal of maintaining consistent performance and avoiding slowdowns caused by heat. A five-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support add some reassurance for buyers who are less familiar with a less widely established storage brand.
The specification gap appears most clearly in write performance. At up to 3,900MB/s, this drive trails the 6,500MB/s to 6,900MB/s maximum write figures of several Lexar and Samsung options. The 4.6 rating is also lower than the 4.7 or 4.8 ratings in the guide. While these figures do not make the drive unsuitable for games, they are relevant when moving large files or handling heavy workloads.
The S880ER is best for gamers seeking a complete 1TB PS5 expansion with cooling and broad compatibility at a more modest specification level. It is also suitable for compatible desktops and laptops. Buyers should confirm their system supports the required M.2 form factor and interface, and the listing specifically states that it is not intended for Mac OS.
Thermal Support for Extended Sessions
The dedicated heat sink is designed to control temperature during long gaming sessions and demanding processing. Temperature management is especially relevant for a compact console because the drive shares a limited enclosure with other heat-producing components.
A Broader Use Beyond the Console
Support for PS5, DirectStorage, and multiple desktop and laptop platforms gives the S880ER more flexibility than a strictly console-branded product. The Mac OS exclusion remains an important limitation for buyers in that ecosystem.
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7. SIX X7400 1TB – Best High-Speed Multi-Platform Expansion
SIX X7400 1TB
1TB storage capacity
7350MB/s maximum read
PCIe Gen4x4 interface
Five-year limited warranty
The SIX X7400 1TB is a PCIe Gen 4×4 M.2 2280 drive designed for gaming, content creation, and storage expansion. It has a 4.6 rating and advertises read speeds up to 7,350MB/s. Unlike a console-exclusive product, it is also positioned for compatible laptops and desktops, making the included heat sink relevant to a wider range of installations.
Pros
- High advertised read throughput
- Works across PS5 and PCs
- Heat sink included with package
- Installation accessories supplied
- Five-year limited warranty
Cons
- Lower customer rating
- Write speed is not specified
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The package includes a heat sink and installation items such as screws and a screwdriver, which improves the convenience of a first-time installation. A five-year limited warranty provides a defined support period. The drive's stated applications include faster bootups, file transfers, and game loads, although actual experience depends on the host system and installed software.
A significant limitation is that the supplied specifications provide a maximum read speed but do not state a corresponding write-speed figure. That makes direct performance comparisons with the Lexar, Samsung, and fanxiang packages less complete. Its 4.6 rating is also among the lowest in this list, alongside the fanxiang and universal add-on heat sink.
The X7400 is worth considering when a buyer wants one high-speed drive for a PS5 and a separate computer, or when console-only licensing is not a priority. Its generous included accessories and broad platform focus are practical advantages. For users who require an official PS5 license or a clearly stated write speed, one of the licensed or more fully specified alternatives may be safer.
One Drive for Multiple Systems
The stated laptop, desktop, and PS5 compatibility makes the X7400 useful beyond a single console. Buyers can match the drive's physical design and interface to the target system, although installation practices and supported features can differ by platform.
Installation Components Included
Including a heat sink, screws, and a screwdriver reduces the need to source separate mounting items. This is a convenience benefit for first-time builders, though the drive's physical clearance should still be checked in compact enclosures.
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8. Lexar 4TB NM790 – Best High-Capacity Lexar PS5 Expansion
Lexar 4TB NM790
4TB storage capacity
7400MB/s maximum read
6500MB/s maximum write
3000TBW endurance rating
The Lexar 4TB NM790 is the largest-capacity Lexar package in the guide and carries a 4.8 customer rating. It retains the NM790's advertised performance of up to 7,400MB/s read and 6,500MB/s write, adds an integrated heat sink, and specifies 3,000TBW endurance. It is aimed at console owners who want extensive internal storage for a large and varied game library.
Pros
- Very large game storage capacity
- High read and write speeds
- 3000TBW endurance specification
- Integrated heat sink
- Efficient HMB 3.0 design
Cons
- Highest capacity expense
- No official PS5 license
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Capacity is the defining advantage. Four terabytes can accommodate numerous modern games and reduce the need to delete finished titles or move them to external storage. The endurance figure also provides useful context for long-term ownership, especially when the drive is used for frequent game installation, updates, and transfers alongside conventional file use.
The trade-offs are cost and certainty. Four terabytes represents the greatest capacity requirement in this roundup and is likely to carry a substantially higher price than the 1TB or 2TB versions. The listing also does not claim official PlayStation 5 licensing, so the buyer must confirm compatibility and clearance independently rather than relying on a console-specific approval statement.
For an enthusiast with a very large library, this NM790 is an attractive high-capacity package. The combination of speed, endurance, cooling, and power-efficiency features is well suited to extended use, while the lack of official licensing is the main reason to verify fit and intended support before ordering.
Room for an Expansive Game Library
A 4TB capacity is unusually generous for console expansion. It can preserve a broad selection of installed titles and make direct play more practical, particularly for owners of large digital libraries or frequent release-day installers.
Endurance for Long-Term Ownership
The stated 3,000TBW endurance gives buyers a measurable durability specification. Like every endurance figure, it should be treated as a product characteristic rather than a promise that every owner will write the same number of terabytes during typical console use.
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9. M.2 Double-Sided Heatsink – Best Universal Add-On Cooler
M.2 Double-Sided Heatsink
Standalone M.2 heat sink
Aluminum alloy construction
2280 single-sided compatibility
10–20°C cooling effect
The M.2 Double-Sided Heatsink is an inexpensive add-on for users who already own a compatible single-sided 2280 M.2 SSD. It has a 4.6 customer rating and is designed for both PS5 and PC installations. Unlike the bundled options, it supplies only the cooling hardware, so it is most useful when a drive is already present and its dimensions are known.
Pros
- Works with PS5 and PCs
- Low-cost cooling upgrade
- Protective silver-plated surface
- Low-viscosity thermal pads
- Adjustable double-sided clips
Cons
- Requires an existing SSD
- Only supports single-sided drives
- Not tailored to console cover
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The main body uses aluminum alloy with silver plating and an anodized surface treatment. The listing says the plating helps eliminate static electricity, while low-viscosity thermal pads are intended to transfer heat without damaging the SSD. Double-sided clips accommodate different M.2 SSD heights and hold the cooler in place for more stable thermal contact.
The claimed cooling effect is between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius, depending on the environment. That range should not be treated as guaranteed, since real results depend on drive workload, ambient temperature, contact quality, enclosure airflow, and whether the console's own cooling path remains unobstructed. The accessory also supports single-sided Type drives rather than every M.2 layout.
This cooler is best for an existing SSD that lacks adequate thermal management or for a builder seeking a simple way to add a heat spreader. It is less convenient than a complete licensed expansion because the drive and console compatibility must be evaluated separately. A PS5-specific replacement cover may also be easier to position correctly in the expansion bay.
Affordable Thermal Improvement
Adding a standalone heat sink can be a cost-effective way to improve heat dissipation around an existing drive. The claimed temperature reduction gives the accessory a clear purpose, even though actual results will vary with the installation environment.
Careful SSD Compatibility Matters
The cooler is intended for single-sided 2280 M.2 drives and uses thermal pads between the SSD and metal surfaces. Checking the drive's dimensions, component layout, and available clearance before installation can prevent pressure or fitment problems.
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10. Lexar 2TB NM790 – Best Balanced Capacity and Performance
Lexar 2TB NM790
2TB storage capacity
7400MB/s maximum read
6500MB/s maximum write
1500TBW endurance rating
The Lexar 2TB NM790 provides the middle ground among the three Lexar capacities in this guide. It has a 4.8 rating, up to 7,400MB/s read speed, up to 6,500MB/s write speed, and a 1,500TBW endurance specification. Like the 1TB and 4TB versions, it arrives with a heat sink designed to support cooling and power efficiency.
Pros
- Balanced 2TB capacity
- Strong sequential read speed
- Competitive maximum write speed
- Integrated heat sink
- High 4.8 customer rating
Cons
- Not officially PS5-licensed
- Capacity may still be limited
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Two terabytes is an attractive size for a PS5 owner who wants more room than 1TB but does not need the extreme capacity of the 4TB model. It can support a larger installed game collection while helping reduce the friction of deleting, reinstalling, or transferring games. The NM790's HMB 3.0 feature is also designed to use available device memory as a cache for smoother transfer behavior.
The key trade-off is the same one that applies to the other Lexar NM790 packages: there is no official PS5 licensing statement. That makes independent compatibility verification important, especially because a console's expansion bay has specific clearance and layout considerations. The package also does not provide a write-speed advantage over the 1TB model, so paying for more capacity should be justified primarily by storage needs rather than throughput.
The 2TB NM790 is a strong recommendation for a player who wants a high-capacity, high-speed package at a more moderate capacity than the 4TB version. Its rating, endurance, thermal hardware, and performance figures form a well-balanced specification set, provided the buyer confirms that the drive and heat sink suit the console.
A Versatile 2TB Storage Middle Ground
The 2TB capacity is large enough for many current game libraries while avoiding the added expense of the highest-capacity model. It is a practical compromise for owners who want comfortable room for installed games and regular updates.
Performance Across Transfers and Loads
Maximum read and write figures of 7,400MB/s and 6,500MB/s place the drive among the faster PCIe Gen 4 options listed. Real console results will be lower and workload-dependent, but the specifications indicate a capable foundation for game storage.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best PS5 SSD Heatsinks
The most useful PS5 SSD heat-sink solution depends on whether you need new storage, a cooler for an installed drive, or official console approval. Capacity, physical fit, thermal design, and platform support should be weighed before selecting an upgrade.
Determine Whether You Need Storage
A standalone heat sink only addresses temperature and requires you to provide an M.2 SSD. A bundled product includes both storage and cooling, which is usually more convenient for a first expansion. If your console already contains a compatible M.2 drive, an add-on heat sink may be sufficient; if you are starting from scratch, a complete SSD-and-heatsink package reduces compatibility work and ensures that the drive and cooling solution were marketed as a unit.
Confirm PS5 Compatibility
PS5 compatibility involves more than recognizing the M.2 form factor. The drive must have a compatible form factor, interface, and physical layout, while its heat sink must fit inside the expansion bay. Products explicitly described as officially licensed, tested, or approved for PS5 use provide the strongest compatibility signal. Other drives may still work, but the buyer should verify dimensions, clearance, connector position, and the manufacturer's current support information before ordering.
Choose the Right Capacity
Capacity should reflect the size and behavior of your game library. A 1TB drive is a practical starting point, 2TB offers more room for current releases, and 4TB is suited to extensive collections or owners who prefer not to manage deletions closely. Actual game counts vary because installation sizes, updates, saved data, formatting, and other files affect the usable space. Consider capacity as a long-term storage decision rather than relying on a fixed number of games.
Understand the Cooling Design
Good cooling depends on a continuous thermal path from the SSD to the heat spreader, suitable contact pressure, and enough airflow. Integrated low-profile heat sinks suit the PS5's constrained expansion area, while the SABRENT replacement cover uses the console's native fan more directly. Generic double-sided clips may improve dissipation but can be less tailored to the console's cover and airflow. Review the stated materials, thermal interface, mounting method, and dimensional constraints rather than focusing only on the word heatsink.
Review Speed and Workload Needs
PCIe Gen 4 drives in this guide advertise maximum read speeds between 7,000MB/s and 7,450MB/s, with some differences in stated write performance. These are maximum hardware figures rather than guaranteed game-loading improvements, and a console's own controller and workload can limit the result. For ordinary game storage, all suitably compatible drives should provide a responsive experience. Faster specifications matter more when transferring large libraries, moving demanding files, or using the same drive in a desktop environment.
Inspect Physical Fit
An M.2 2280 designation describes a common drive size, but it does not guarantee that every heat sink will fit a particular console or computer. Check the dimensions of the drive, heat spreader, mounting screw, and any raised components. Low-profile integrated designs are generally more appropriate for the PS5 expansion bay, while a bulky desktop cooler may interfere with the console cover or airflow. The accessory listing's dimensions and included instructions are useful references before installation.
Consider Support and Warranty
Support can be especially useful when installing a less familiar brand or when a drive behaves unexpectedly. The fanxiang S880ER lists a five-year after-sales service and lifetime technical support, while the SIX X7400 carries a five-year limited warranty. Warranty duration is not the same as performance, but it is a meaningful ownership consideration. For official PS5 products, checking the manufacturer's compatibility and support pages can also help confirm the current approved configuration.
Compare Endurance for Long-Term Use
The Lexar packages state endurance ratings of 1,000TBW for 1TB, 1,500TBW for 2TB, and 3,000TBW for 4TB. These figures provide a way to compare expected write workloads, although they do not predict the exact amount any individual owner will write. For a console, write volume normally comes from game installation, updates, saves, and transfers. Buyers keeping a drive for many years can use endurance as one factor alongside warranty, thermal design, and capacity.
How to Use and Care for Your PS5 SSD Heatsinks
Before installation, power off the PS5 completely and allow the console to cool. Review the drive and heat-sink dimensions, confirm that the selected storage is compatible with the expansion slot, and consult the current console or drive instructions. Clean the work area, avoid static discharge, and keep screws and small thermal components within reach before opening the expansion area.
Install the drive and heat sink in the manner specified for the product. Complete SSD-and-heatsink packages may have a preassembled thermal solution, while standalone models may require peeling protective film, applying thermal pads, positioning the cooler, and tightening its clips or screws. Do not stack components that were not designed to be stacked, and never force a drive if its connector, screw hole, or heat sink does not align.
After installation, close the console and confirm that the new storage appears under the console's storage settings. Install and move a test game to the expansion drive, then run it directly to check both access and stability. Keep the console's vents unobstructed, avoid placing the system inside a tight or poorly ventilated enclosure, and periodically check for unusually slow file transfers, warning messages, or sudden changes in game-loading behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a heatsink for an M.2 SSD in a PS5?
A heatsink is not a substitute for choosing a compatible drive, but good thermal management can help the SSD maintain performance as it works. Some official PS5 SSD packages already include a tailored heat sink, while other compatible M.2 drives may need a separate solution. Check the drive height, connector position, and available clearance before adding any aftermarket cooler.
Will a desktop M.2 SSD work in the PlayStation 5?
Many compatible M.2 drives can be used in the PS5, but physical fit and official support are separate considerations. The drive must have the correct dimensions and layout, and the heat sink must not obstruct the expansion cover. Products explicitly licensed for PS5 use provide the clearest compatibility assurance, while all other options should be checked against current manufacturer guidance.
What is the difference between a PS5-specific heatsink and a universal M.2 cooler?
A PS5-specific heat sink is shaped around the console's expansion bay and may replace the original cover or coordinate with the console's airflow. A universal M.2 cooler is generally a clip-on accessory designed for a broader range of single-sided 2280 drives. The PS5-specific option may install more cohesively, while the universal option can be useful across several systems.
Does a higher rated read speed mean faster PS5 game loading?
Not always. Advertised read speeds are maximum sequential figures and may be limited by the console, game engine, file layout, and workload. A higher figure can still be useful for large transfers or use in a desktop, but compatibility, thermal behavior, and game optimization often have a more noticeable effect on everyday console use.
How much PS5 storage should I choose?
A 1TB expansion is a useful starting point for players who regularly manage their installed games. A 2TB drive provides more room for current titles, while 4TB favors owners with extensive libraries or little interest in frequent deletion. Because game sizes and updates vary, it is better to leave some free space than to rely on an estimated number of games.
Can a standalone heat sink prevent SSD throttling?
It can improve heat dissipation and may help reduce the likelihood of thermal throttling, but it cannot guarantee that a drive will never throttle. Ambient temperature, enclosure airflow, drive workload, mounting pressure, and the quality of the thermal interface all influence the result. A properly fitted cooler should be combined with normal console airflow and sensible installation practices.
Are officially licensed PS5 SSDs better than compatible third-party drives?
Official licensing mainly provides stronger assurance about intended compatibility, fit, and console testing. A compatible third-party drive can still deliver strong performance and may offer greater capacity choices or a lower acquisition cost. The better choice depends on how much certainty the buyer values, the drive's physical design, and whether it comes with a suitable heat sink.
How should I verify compatibility before buying a PS5 SSD heatsink?
Start with the drive's M.2 form factor, NAND layout, dimensions, and heat-sink profile, then compare those details with the PS5 expansion bay requirements. For an officially licensed product, check the manufacturer's current compatibility page and model identifier. For aftermarket parts, confirm that the replacement cover or cooler does not interfere with the console's cover, screw, or airflow path.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best PS5 SSD Heatsinks
The WD_BLACK SN850P packages stand out for users who want the strongest official PS5 compatibility signal, with the 1TB model favoring straightforward installation and the 2TB model offering more room. The Samsung 990 PRO 2TB is the premium performance choice for buyers who want high sequential figures, improved random performance, and a low-profile heat sink designed to fit PS5 expansion.
The Lexar NM790 options provide a different balance of speed, endurance, and capacity, with 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB versions available. For an existing drive, the SABRENT replacement cover offers a purpose-built PS5 cooling approach, while the double-sided universal cooler is a more flexible and economical add-on. Prioritize fit, official compatibility, thermal design, and the amount of storage you genuinely need.
Prices, ratings, availability, and manufacturer compatibility information can change, so check the current listing and support documentation before purchasing. With the right match between storage capacity and cooling design, a PS5 expansion can provide a more organized game library and a more dependable home for demanding modern titles.