Gaming Storage (SSD)
Modern games are pushing 100 GB minimums, which makes storage the second-most-scrutinised PC upgrade after the GPU. PixelLoadout covers internal PCIe 4.0 / 5.0 SSDs, PS5-compatible drives and external USB4 SSDs for console libraries.
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What's in this category
Modern games are pushing 100 GB minimums, which makes storage the second-most-scrutinised PC upgrade after the GPU. PixelLoadout covers internal PCIe 4.0 / 5.0 SSDs, PS5-compatible drives and external USB4 SSDs for console libraries.
Who this is for
PC builders adding storage, PS5 owners installing an internal SSD, and console players building an external library.
What you'll learn
How DRAM affects real-world load times, when PCIe 5.0 is worth it, which drives pass Sony's PS5 requirements, and how to safely install an SSD with a heatsink.
Featured buying guides
Buying guides coming soon
New buying guides for this category are currently being prepared by the PixelLoadout Editorial Team.
Latest reviews
Reviews coming soon
New product reviews for this category are currently being prepared.
Latest comparisons
Comparisons coming soon
Head-to-head comparisons for this category are on the editorial roadmap.
Explore Gaming Storage (SSD)
Dedicated pages for each sub-topic will be published as content is prepared.
Popular articles
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Once a broader set of articles is published in this category, the most-read pieces will appear here.
Beginner guides
Beginner guides being written
Introductory pieces for readers new to this category will land here first.
Best products this year
Roundup being finalised
Our editorial best-of roundup for this category will publish once individual reviews are complete.
Frequently asked questions about gaming storage (ssd)
Do I need a heatsink on my PS5 SSD?
Yes — Sony requires the drive be equipped with an effective heat-dissipation solution. Many current drives ship with one factory-fitted; those without need a third-party heatsink.