Are both SSDs compatible with the PS5?

Yes, both are NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, the format the PS5's expansion slot accepts. The Samsung 990 PRO already includes a heatsink in this version; the WDBLACK SN850X in its standard version does not, so you would need to buy one separately before installing it in the console.

Is the WD_BLACK SN850X's Game Mode 2.0 worth it?

Only on PC and only with the WDBLACK software installed. In that environment, the firmware dynamically adjusts the drive's priorities when it detects a running game. On PS5 it has no effect because the software is not compatible with the console.

How many TB do I need for PS5?

For most players, 1 TB is enough to keep between 10 and 20 games installed depending on their size. If you play large-format titles like Call of Duty or Warzone, a 2 TB capacity gives more headroom without constantly managing space.

Do you notice the difference between a PCIe 4 and a PCIe 3 SSD in games?

On PS5, which uses a custom PCIe 4.0 bus, the difference is noticeable versus PCIe 3 solutions: load times drop significantly. On PC, the gap between PCIe 3 and PCIe 4 is less dramatic in games than in file-transfer benchmarks, but the right SSD does eliminate the load micro-stutters in large open worlds.

Almacenamiento·Jun 20, 2026·4 min read

Samsung 990 PRO vs WD_BLACK SN850X: which PCIe 4 NVMe SSD to buy for PS5 and PC (2026)

We compare the Samsung 990 PRO and the WD_BLACK SN850X in 2026: speeds, PS5 compatibility, temperature and which to buy based on your use and budget.

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Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change.

Samsung 990 PRO vs WD_BLACK SN850X: which PCIe 4 NVMe SSD to buy for PS5 and PC (2026)