The PS5 Pro, with its promises of high-fidelity gaming and superior performance, already stands out in the gaming community for its impressively quick load times. But as any true enthusiast understands, there’s always room for improvement, especially when it comes to reducing those precious seconds spent waiting for games to load. This relentless pursuit of performance led me to upgrade my PS5 Pro with a WD_Black SN850X SSD—a decision driven by the desire for speed and additional storage.
Installation: A Breeze for Gamers
Installing an SSD in the PS5 Pro proved to be as straightforward as it gets. The process, much like with the original PS5, involves removing the console’s faceplate, locating the storage expansion bay, and carefully setting the SSD in place. It’s a testament to user-friendly design that Sony emphasizes, making hardware upgrades accessible even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
The compatibility of SSDs across the PS5 and PS5 Pro models is a huge boon, particularly for those looking to transition from the base model to the Pro without losing their existing SSD investments. The continuity Sony provides here not only enhances the user experience but also highlights their commitment to sustainable gaming practices, as users can retain and repurpose their tech rather than replacing it entirely.
Testing the Limits: WD_Black SN850X Performance Analysis
Upon installation, my PS5 Pro welcomed the WD_Black SN850X with a quick format, after which I immediately dove into testing. While the drive’s performance boasted a read speed of 6498 MB/s, slightly below the maximum of 7300 MB/s, it was time to see how this translated into real-world gaming improvements.
I selected a mix of titles for this trial, including heavy hitters like Elden Ring and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, alongside classics such as Red Dead Redemption 2. The process involved transferring games to and from the SSD to gauge both transfer and loading times. Despite the drive not surpassing the Pro’s internal SSD in speed during every test, the differences were marginal and often came down to mere seconds.
Real-World Gaming Experience: Is Faster Always Better?
Interestingly, the fastest load times were consistently noted when games ran directly from the PS5 Pro’s stock SSD. This highlighted an important consideration for gamers—while aftermarket SSDs like the WD_Black SN850X enhance performance, the optimizations on the PS5 Pro’s internal components are finely tuned for the console’s architecture.
However, where the WD_Black SN850X truly shines is in storage capacity. By upgrading, I effectively tripled my storage space, which is a significant boon for any gamer. Not having to worry about uninstalling older games to make room for new titles is a luxury that cannot be overstated.
Is Upgrading Your PS5 Pro with an SSD Worth It?
For those contemplating whether to enhance their PS5 Pro with an additional SSD, the answer largely depends on your needs. If storage space is a constraint, an upgrade is definitely worthwhile. As for performance, the improvements in load times, while not earth-shattering, do add up, especially for those who value every second of their gaming experience.
Furthermore, with Black Friday deals around the corner, spotting a WD_Black SN850X SSD below $100 is a steal that’s hard to pass up. It’s an opportune time to invest in an upgrade, ensuring that your console is equipped to handle the demands of future gaming titles without a hitch.
Ultimately, while the WD_Black SN850X SSD may not drastically change the already swift load times of the PS5 Pro, it solidifies the console’s readiness for future gaming adventures. With more storage and slightly improved speeds, it’s a strategic upgrade that I plan to keep for the lifespan of my console. For fellow gamers looking to maximize their PS5 Pro experience, consider this SSD a worthy addition to your gaming arsenal.
