How to Add Storage for GTA 6: PS5 M.2 SSD and Xbox Card Guide
Hub of GTA Editorial Team
Editorial · Hub of GTA
Confirmed official Rockstar, Take-Two or platform source. Reported a named outlet, not confirmed by Rockstar. Rumour unverified, treat with caution.
You only need this if you can't free up room. Confirmed Rockstar says GTA 6 needs up to 212 GB. Here's what each console officially supports if you want more space. Check your console's numbers first.
Try the free option first
Delete or archive games you can download again. Your pre-load won't start without enough available space, and the PlayStation App can also manage storage remotely.
What Sony requires for a PS5 SSD
Confirmed From PlayStation's official guide:
| Requirement | Sony's spec |
|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe, M key. SATA isn't supported |
| Capacity | 250 GB to 8 TB |
| Speed | 5,500 MB/s sequential read or faster recommended |
| Sizes | 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110 |
| Width | 25 mm maximum |
| Thickness | 11.25 mm maximum, including cooling |
| Cooling | Required. If the drive has a built-in heatsink, don't add another |
Sony also notes that some games may not perform as well as on the internal SSD, even on a faster drive. No drive has been certified specifically for GTA 6, so "best SSD for GTA 6" really means one that meets these specs and has enough room.
How to install it
Confirmed The short version from Sony. Follow its page for the details and diagrams.
CFI-2000 and CFI-7000 model groups (newer):
- Power off, unplug everything, and let the console cool.
- Remove the triangle cover, then the expansion slot cover.
- Remove the screw and spacer, and set the spacer for your drive's length.
- Insert the drive at an upward angle until fully seated, lower it, and fix it with the screw.
- Replace the covers, reconnect, power on, and format when prompted.
CFI-1000 model group (original):
- Power off, unplug everything, and let the console cool.
- Remove the base and top cover, then the expansion slot cover.
- Fit the drive as above.
- Replace the covers and base, power on, and format when prompted.
Formatting erases everything on the new drive.
Xbox Series X|S expansion cards
Confirmed Microsoft sells the Seagate Storage Expansion Card in 512 GB, 1 TB and 2 TB. It plugs into the rear port and performs like the internal SSD, so you can install to it and play directly from it. It works on both Series X and Series S. There's no opening the console.
If you're on a Series S, this is the upgrade most likely to matter.
USB drives: what they can and can't do
Confirmed Microsoft says games optimized for Series X|S should be played from the internal SSD or an expansion card. A USB drive suits storing games, and playing older ones, so it can be a place to move other games to and free up internal space. It isn't where GTA 6 should run.
Allow time
Storage may take time to arrive, and your download takes time too. Sort this out before launch week if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
What SSD do I need for GTA 6 on PS5?
Sony requires a PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe drive of 250 GB to 8 TB with a cooling structure such as a heatsink, and recommends read speeds of 5,500 MB/s or faster.
Can I play GTA 6 from a USB drive?
Microsoft says Series X|S optimized games should be played from the internal SSD or an expansion card. Sony's M.2 slot is the PS5 equivalent.
Do I need extra storage for GTA 6?
Only if you can't free up to 212 GB. Deleting games you can re-download is free.
Sources
Hub of GTA covers GTA 6 as an independent fan resource. Not affiliated with Rockstar Games or Take-Two Interactive.