SanDisk has unveiled one of the most expensive PS5 storage upgrades yet. The $2960 Optimus GX Pro 850P adds 8TB of space to the console, enough for hundreds of games. The company is receiving blowback after pricing the PlayStation licensed NVMe SSD well above comparable PCIe 4.0 drives.
SanDisk revealed the beefy NVMe SSD on social media before it arrives on its U.S. storefront. In the M.2 2280 form factor, console gamers can expect sequential read/write speeds of 7,200/6,600 MB/s. Depending on installation sizes, up to 200 PS5 games can fit on the drive.
The average 8TB SSD price has skyrocketed as manufacturers cater to AI data centers. Even so, the Optimus GX Pro 850P is significantly more expensive than PCIe 4.0 alternatives. Its specs match the WD_Black SN850X, which isn’t surprising, considering that SanDisk is a Western Digital brand. Amazon has the SN850X with the same capacity listed for $1299.99.
For the difference in cost, buyers receive an officially licensed PlayStation accessory. Also, the heatsink has been constructed to slot into PS5 consoles without compromising performance. The drive is an option for PC gamers with compatible motherboards, provided it doesn’t interfere with other components.
Critics are roasting SanDisk, noting that even after the price increase, the 8TB GX Pro 850P makes the PS5 Pro seem affordable. Alternatively, shoppers can purchase a prebuilt gaming PC with a reasonably sized NVMe SSD.
Downsizing PS5 and PS6 games
For PlayStation users with slow internet connections or who hate deleting games, PS5 storage upgrades have never been more of a luxury. The memory shortage may also be altering Sony’s PS6 plans. Despite the many large AAA titles, leaker KeplerL2 believes that the company could opt for a 1TB drive to keep its MSRP reasonable.
Through patents, Sony is exploring ways to shrink file sizes. Neural texture compression is one potential solution, as is more intelligent on-demand asset streaming. Regardless, these breakthroughs aren’t likely to address the ongoing NAND flash crisis in the near term.
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.
Adam Corsetti - Tech Writer - 1699 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2025
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I'm anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.
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