PlayStation 5 owners should be careful when adding SSDs to their consoles, as the expansion cover screw can come off more easily than some might expect. While the extra storage option is nice, the installation has caused headaches for some PS5 players over the years.
Although it might be hard to believe, the PS5 is already five years old. Since its launch, the console has amassed an impressive library of first- and third-party games. Despite competition from Nintendo's Switch family of systems, the PS5 sold well. By early 2025, Sony confirmed that the system had sold over 80 million units worldwide. While that number falls well short of the PS2's more than 160 million units, the current-gen console isn't far behind PS3-like consoles on the all-time list. With millions of users picking up the console as of 2020, there is a demand for additional storage to accommodate growing gamer libraries.
Even with Switch 2 Out, video game hardware sales hit a 30-year low last month
A new report says that sales of video game hardware during November 2025 fell to a level not seen in three decades.
Be careful when adding an SSD to the PS5 expansion slot
While the PS5 includes an SSD expansion slot under the hood, owners should be careful when installing additional storage. As pointed out by Reddit user h974974, there have been many documented cases of players removing the PS5 screw while trying to complete the installation. As seen in their photo, the screw was removed and they said their attempts at repairs only made the situation worse.
In the comments on the post, a Reddit user provided more context behind their dilemma and revealed a possible solution to the problem. They started by using a standard #1 Phillips screwdriver to try to remove the SSD screw. When that didn't work, they dropped to a 0.5 cross head, which caused the bolt to start stripping. Finally, a Reddit user was able to remove the damaged screw using 8-inch needle nose pliers. However, they warned other PS5 owners not to use screwdrivers smaller than a #1 Philips head. Additionally, they suggested using pliers to loosen the screw before trying to completely loosen it with a screwdriver.
As the responses in this Reddit post indicate, many other players have had issues with the SSD expansion slot. Additionally, an online search will find many more recent Reddit posts about the issue. The consensus among the comments is to approach adding an SSD to the PS5 with caution and make sure you're using the right equipment to minimize the risk of complications. However, it is understandable that some players are frustrated with how easy it seems to destroy the screw for the expansion slot. These complications make external PS5 drives that connect via USB potentially more appealing, despite not being able to play PS5 games directly.
It's worth noting that Sony is currently running its PlayStation Holiday Sale for 2025, which could give gamers another reason to invest in an SSD for their PS5 as their libraries fill up. The sale will run until January 21st, giving fans plenty of time to browse the PlayStation Store in search of new games. The selections include both AAA and indie titles, including some of the most popular games of the year.
Time will tell what Sony has in store for the PlayStation in 2026. As the company prepares for the new year, PS6 rumors continue to circulate. While most details remain hazy, reports suggest that there could be a handheld version of the console. Ultimately, fans will have to wait for the company to officially reveal its plans in the coming months. In the meantime, they can look forward to other PS5-exclusive games such as Marvel's Wolverine and Sarosstore on their SSD.
