technology

Best Expansion Storage Solutions for PS5 and Xbox Consoles in 2024

The Digital Artisan

Nov 25, 2024 — 2 min read

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving world of gaming, storage needs are at the forefront of gamers' minds. With AAA game sizes continuously increasing, gamers must adapt to new storage solutions, particularly those playing on the latest PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles. This article explores the best options available in 2024 for expanding storage on these platforms.

Understanding Current Options

For console gamers, expanding storage involves understanding the hardware constraints of current-generation consoles. The PlayStation 5 originally came with an 825GB SSD, offering just 667GB for games and apps, while the PS5 Pro boasts a 2TB drive with 1.9TB usable space. Conversely, Xbox Series X starts with a 1TB SSD with 800GB available, and the Series S offering a 512GB version with as little as 364GB of usable storage. Microsoft Xbox consoles support official expansion cards by Seagate or WD, whereas the PS5 allows certain M.2 SSDs for internal upgrades.

PlayStation 5 Storage Solutions

The PS5 offers more flexibility in storage expansion than its Microsoft counterpart through an internal M.2 slot. However, not all M.2 SSDs are compatible—only those meeting the PCIe 4.0 standard and speeds of at least 5,500MB/s are recommended. Additionally, PS5 requires a heatsink with specific dimensions. Non-compliant units risk slow game loading times and reduced lifespan due to the absence of a host memory buffer (HMB). Leading options like the WD Black SN850X, Corsair M600 Pro LPX, and Samsung 990 Pro offer optimal performance for PS5 enhancements.

Xbox Series Storage Expansion

For Xbox Series consoles, the options are limited to official memory expansion cards like Seagate's or WD's C50, which offer seamless integration with the console. These cards provide an uncomplicated plug-and-play solution that allows for extended game storage, ensuring gamers maintain a catalogue of ready-to-play titles without needing to uninstall previous games.

The Role of External Drives

While internal expansion is key for immediate performance improvements, external storage options should not be overlooked. For gamers wanting portability or to store large libraries of older generation games, solutions like the Crucial X9 Pro Portable SSD come into play. Although these drives do not equip users to play the latest titles directly, they serve as an excellent method for archiving and managing massive game collections conveniently.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct storage solution for gaming consoles in 2024 involves a balance of understanding current technological limits and future-proofing gaming collections. Whether it's through high-performance internal SSDs for the PS5 or official expansion cards for Xbox Series X/S, there is a wide range of options designed to meet varying gamer needs. As technology progresses, staying informed about these options ensures an optimal gaming experience.

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