Do You Need a Heatsink for a PS5 SSD?

With the latest update from Sony, PS5 fans can now boost their PS5 storage expansion. They can do this by adding an M.2 NVMe SSD, which is really handy because the console starts with only 825GB¹ of space. As games get bigger and fill up space faster, many wonder if they need a PS5 SSD heatsink. Sony suggests getting a heatsink to help with heat, but some might choose not to, depending on their setup. We’ll explore what using a heatsink means when you’re setting up your M.2 SSD, including necessary tech specs, what people have found out, and advice from experts to make your gaming better.

Key Takeaways

• PS5 comes with 825GB of space as standard, but that fills up quick.
• Your SSD should read data super fast, at least 5,500MB/s.
• Keeping things cool is key, and a heatsink helps control heat.
• Without a heatsink, your PS5 SSD’s temperature might go over 71°C².
• Putting in a heatsink can really drop the heat your SSD makes while you play.

The Importance of Expanding PS5 Storage

The gaming world is changing fast, with game sizes getting bigger. Many PS5 users struggle because the PS5 has limited storage. It has an SSD with only 825GB, and system software takes up a lot of this. With new, larger games coming out, this limited space is an issue. Knowing about this problem is key to improving your gaming fun.

Understanding the Storage Limitations

PS5’s internal storage gets full quickly, so gamers look for ways to add more space. Without more space, you might have to delete old games to add new ones, which can be annoying. The PS5 lets you add more storage using M.2 SSDs, from 250 GB up to 8 TB³. Sony suggests using SSDs that read data at least 5,500MB/s for the best performance⁴.

Benefits of Adding an NVMe SSD

Adding an NVMe SSD to your PS5 has big perks, like quicker load times and better gameplay⁵. These drives not only give you more space but also work faster so you can start playing sooner. It’s important to pick an SSD that Sony approves to make sure it works well⁴.

Moreover, choosing a good M.2 SSD with a heatsink can stop it from getting too hot, which means better performance when you play a lot. You get more space for games and faster loading, which makes gaming much better. For big game fans, like those who love Need for Speed, lots of storage is crucial. It means less time sorting out space and more time in the game navigating storage options⁴.

What Is a Heatsink and How Does It Work?

A heatsink is a crucial part of cooling systems, aimed at keeping electronic devices cool. It works by moving heat away to prevent devices from getting too hot. Heatsinks are made from materials like aluminium or copper due to their ability to quickly transfer heat.

This process helps devices work better for longer. So, the device you’re using can run smoothly without overheating.

Components of a Heatsink

To know how heatsinks work, it’s important to know their parts. A common heatsink includes:

• Base Plate: The flat surface that touches the heat source. It moves heat to the heatsink.
• Fins: These are parts sticking out that help spread the heat, making it easier to dispel.
• Thermal Interface Material: A substance (like thermal paste) that improves how well the device and heatsink connect.

Types of Heatsinks: Passive vs Active

When looking at cooling systems, there are two main kinds of heatsinks to consider.

1. Passive Heatsink: Uses natural air flow and has no moving parts. It’s compact, making it perfect for small spaces like in a PS5 SSD.
2. Active Heatsink: Has fans or other parts to push air and cool better. This is great for devices with high heat needs.

Different devices need different heatsinks. Choosing the right one means looking at what the device needs to stay cool. Compatibility and design are key to making sure your device, like a PS5 SSD, stays at the right temperature for long-term use⁶⁷⁸.

Do You Need a Heatsink for a PS5 SSD?

Is adding a heatsink to your PS5 SSD necessary? Certainly, if you want it to perform at its best. Sony says it’s wise to fit a heatsink on any M.2 SSD you install in your PS5. This keeps the heat down. Some SSDs can reach over 71°C, which is bad for both speed and how long they last⁹. Keeping your SSD’s temperature between 30°C to 65°C boosts its reliability and stops overheating¹⁰.

Recommendations from Sony

Sony’s advice? A heatsink is key for good SSD temperatures, even lowering them by 10-15 degrees Celsius⁹. This drop matters a lot during long gaming sessions where the system gets really hot. So, even though at first it might seem optional, a heatsink is pretty crucial for keeping your PS5 cool.

Performance Considerations Without a Heatsink

Some gamers say their PS5’s SSD works fine even without a heatsink. Yet, if it often gets too hot, you’re risking damage⁹. Normally, a resting SSD should stay under 40-50°C. Skipping the heatsink is okay for casual users or if your system has good cooling¹⁰. But think about how much you game. Make sure you choose wisely, balancing heat control and gaming needs.

Installing a Heatsink: Options and Process

Improving your console’s performance starts with a PS5 SSD upgrade. You can choose M.2 SSDs with built-in heatsinks for an easier setup. This not only makes installation simpler but also reduces the risk of mistakes that cause overheating. The Sabrent PS5 SSD Designed Heatsink is a great pick at $19.99. It offers more storage and ensures your system runs smoothly¹¹.

Purchasing SSDs with Integrated Heatsinks

SSDs with heatsinks built in are a smart choice. They allow for quick and easy installation without the hassle of fitting a heatsink yourself. The Seagate Firecuda 530, for instance, is the fastest M.2 NVMe SSD available for upgrading. It keeps your PS5 cool and operating efficiently¹¹.

How to Install a Standalone Heatsink

Choosing a separate heatsink involves more steps. First, take off the PS5’s faceplates and the M.2 slot cover. Then, fix the heatsink on the SSD and insert it into the slot. Following Sony’s guidelines is key for top performance. The SSD needs to meet specific requirements, like having a heatsink and fast read speeds¹². By sticking to detailed guides, you can boost your PS5’s storage with confidence¹³.

Source Links

1. https://www.tomshardware.com/features/ps5-ssd-upgrade-temperature-testing – PS5 SSD Upgrade Temperature Testing: Do You Even Need a Heatsink?
2. https://www.easeus.com/partition-master/ps5-ssd-temperature.html – PS5 SSD Temperature Test: Do You Need A Heatsink?
3. https://www.kingston.com/en/blog/gaming/playstation-5-heatsink-ssd-explained – PlayStation 5 and Heatsink SSDs Explained
4. https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/hardware/ps5-install-m2-ssd/ – How to add an M.2 SSD to a PS5 console (US)
5. https://www.techradar.com/news/ps5-ssd-heatsink-explained-what-is-it-for-and-do-you-really-need-one – PS5 SSD heatsink explained: what is it for and do you really need one?
6. https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/boards/264562-playstation-5/80629245 – SSD heatsink questions. – PlayStation 5
7. https://www.tomshardware.com/best-picks/best-ps5-ssds – The Best PS5 SSDs in 2024: Speedy NVMe storage for your console
8. https://nascompares.com/2021/11/30/elecgear-ps5-ssd-heatsink-hardware-review-game-changer-or-overkill/ – ElecGear PS5 SSD Heatsink Hardware Review – Game Changer or Overkill?
9. https://www.partitionwizard.com/news/ps5-ssd-temperature.html – PS5 SSD Temperature & Does It Need a Heatsink
10. https://www.crucial.com/articles/about-ssd/do-you-need-an-nvme-ssd-heatsink – Do you need an NVMe SSD heatsink?
11. https://nascompares.com/2021/07/30/compatible-ps5-ssd-heatsinks-stay-cool/ – A Guide to Compatible M.2 Heatsinks for PS5 Internal Storage Upgrades
12. https://www.cnet.com/videos/install-an-m-2-ssd-in-your-ps5-with-a-heatsink-upgrade/ – Install an M.2 SSD in your PS5 with a heat sink upgrade – Video
13. https://sabrent.com/products/sb-pshs – M.2 NVMe Heatsink for the PS5 Console