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The accessories that make the most difference on a PS5 Slim are, in order for most owners: an officially compatible M.2 SSD for storage, a DualSense charging station, a second controller, a good headset, and the detachable disc drive if you own the Digital Edition and still want physical games. This guide covers what each accessory does, what the makers state about compatibility, and which buyer should skip it.
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What is different about the PS5 Slim
The PS5 Slim comes in two forms: a disc model with a built-in drive and a Digital Edition with none. The Digital Edition can be paired with Sony’s detachable disc drive, which the maker lists as playing Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray and DVD discs and needing an internet connection to pair during setup. The Slim has an M.2 expansion slot behind a cover, so internal storage can be expanded with a compatible SSD. The shell is also two-part and uses a vertical or horizontal stand that fits both orientations, so check fit before buying third-party stands or covers.
At a glance
| Accessory | Best for | Key stated details | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| M.2 SSD (Samsung 990 Pro, WD Black SN850P, Corsair MP600 series) | Players running out of storage | Samsung 990 Pro: PCIe Gen 4 x4, reads up to 7,462 MB/s per GamesRadar; PlayStation says the licensed WD Black SN850P can expand storage by up to 8TB | Needs correct size and a heatsink; installation requires removing the cover |
| DualSense Charging Station | Households with two controllers | Charges two controllers at once; frees console USB ports | Only for DualSense family controllers |
| Detachable disc drive | Digital Edition owners with discs | Plays 4K UHD Blu-ray, Blu-ray and DVD; pairs over the internet | Premium-tier add-on; not needed with the disc model |
| Headset (Pulse Elite, Pulse Explore) | Online and late-night gaming | Pulse Elite uses planar magnetic drivers per TechRadar; PlayStation Link connectivity | Quality differs between wired and wireless models |
| Vertical stand and cooling stands | Desk or shelf placement | Official stand plus third-party combined cooling and charging stands | Fit differs by model; confirm Slim compatibility |
M.2 SSD: the most useful upgrade
The Slim’s internal storage fills quickly because modern game installs are large. Sony supports internal M.2 expansion on PS5 consoles, and the drive must meet the maker’s stated requirements: PCIe Gen 4 interface, M.2 form factor, and a heatsink or cooling arrangement that fits. GamesRadar picks the Samsung 990 Pro, listing PCIe Gen 4.0 x4 and a five-year warranty, with a note that random 4K performance can disappoint. PlayStation lists the officially licensed WD Black SN850P as able to expand storage by up to 8TB, and one compatibility guide describes it as fitting all PS5 variants including the Slim. Engadget recommends the Corsair MP600 Pro LPX in a 2TB size, saying it meets Sony’s requirements, while another guide lists the MP600 Core XT as the cheapest Slim-compatible option.
Fit notes: the Slim’s slot accepts drives with a heatsink within the maker’s size limits, so a bare drive needs a separate heatsink and a pre-fitted one needs to stay within stated height. Always read the console’s storage menu after installation, which runs a speed test and tells you if the drive qualifies. Power the console fully off before opening the cover, and follow the maker’s instructions. If you are not comfortable, a local repair shop can do it.
Choose it if you play several large games. Skip it if you only keep a handful of titles installed, or use an external USB drive just for PS4 games.
DualSense Charging Station
GamesRadar names the DualSense Charging Station as its top pick for charging. According to Engadget, it charges two controllers at once and frees the console’s USB ports. You drop the controllers onto the connectors, so there is no cable to plug in. Third-party combined cooling and charging stands exist for Slim, standard and Pro consoles, and one roundup lists roughly 2.5 hours to charge a DualSense Edge on one of them. Because the Edge has a different charging shape, check the maker’s compatibility list before buying.
Choose it if you leave controllers on a shelf between sessions. Skip it if you charge from a USB-C wall adapter at night.
Detachable disc drive
PlayStation says the add-on drive is for PS5 Digital Edition (Slim) and PS5 Pro consoles. It reads 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray and DVD discs. It also needs an internet connection to pair with the console during setup. Engadget’s earlier review noted it as a pricey add-on for a modest feature. It is worth it only if you have a disc library, enjoy resale, or want a Blu-ray player in the living room. For digital-only players, it is unnecessary.
Headsets
TechRadar calls the Sony Pulse Elite the best official PS5 headset, citing planar magnetic drivers and PlayStation Link, which also makes it a good match for PlayStation Portal. Sony’s Pulse Explore earbuds are another official option for players who prefer in-ear listening. Third-party picks that appear in roundups include the Astro A50, the Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation and the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. Sony also announced a lower-cost Pulse headset, according to one report, so stock and range may change.
Stands, covers and cooling
The Slim ships with a stand that supports vertical or horizontal use. Third-party stands combine a cooling fan with a charging dock. Fans can help keep the console cool in enclosed cabinets, but the console already manages heat with its own fan. Make sure any cover or stand leaves the vents unblocked. Dust filters and shell covers are mostly cosmetic.
Other useful additions
- Second DualSense: for local co-op. Colour variants are available.
- High-speed HDMI cable: the box includes one, so replace it only if damaged.
- External USB SSD: useful for PS4 titles and storing PS5 games you are not playing. PlayStation also lists a Seagate external SSD of up to 2TB.
- Media remote: helpful if you use the console for streaming apps.
Budget tiers
- Budget: second controller, grips, dust filters.
- Mid-range: charging station, M.2 SSD in 1TB size, wired headset.
- Premium: large SSD, Pulse Elite or Astro A50, disc drive, DualSense Edge.
Pick X if…
| If you… | Pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Are running out of space | M.2 SSD | Biggest practical upgrade |
| Hate cables on the sofa | Charging station | Controllers dock and charge two at a time |
| Own the Digital Edition and discs | Detachable disc drive | Adds physical media support |
| Play online with friends | Headset | Clear voice and 3D audio |
| Keep the console in a cabinet | Cooling stand | Extra airflow if vents are tight |
| Play competitively | DualSense Edge | Back buttons and tuning |
Installation and care tips
Take your time with any hardware change. Before opening the SSD cover, switch the console fully off, unplug the power cable, and touch a metal surface to discharge static. Handle the SSD by its edges, align it with the slot at the angle the maker’s diagram shows, and fasten it with the supplied screw so it does not lift. After closing the cover, power on and format the drive through the on-screen prompt. If the storage menu reports a slower speed than expected, reseat the drive and confirm the heatsink is not touching the cover.
For long-term care, dust the vents with a dry brush or compressed air held at a distance, never inside the case, and place the console where air can move around it. Wipe controllers with a soft dry cloth and keep headsets away from heat and moisture.
What to skip
Not every accessory is necessary. The packed-in HDMI cable supports the console’s output modes, so a replacement is only needed if it is damaged. Cosmetic shell covers are optional, and some third-party faceplates can trap heat if they cover vents, so choose designs that leave airflow clear. Screen protectors and remote shells have little effect on performance. Spend first on storage and charging, then on audio, and leave extras until you know a real need.
Alternatives
- A PlayStation Portal for streaming your console to a handheld screen.
- A gaming monitor with HDMI 2.1 if you plan to play at 120Hz.
- A second charging cable for travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add storage to a PS5 Slim?
Yes. The console has an M.2 slot behind a cover, and Sony lists requirements for compatible SSDs. After installation, the system runs a speed test and confirms whether the drive can be used for PS5 games.
Do I need a heatsink on the SSD?
The maker requires adequate cooling for the drive. Many SSDs sold for PS5 include a heatsink, and others need one fitted. Choose one that stays within the console’s stated clearance.
Does the disc drive work on every PS5?
PlayStation says it is for the Digital Edition and PS5 Pro. The standard Slim already has a built-in disc drive. It needs to be paired over the internet during setup.
Is a charging station better than a cable?
It is more convenient since you can set controllers down to charge, and it frees USB ports. A cable does the same job at a lower cost tier if you do not mind plugging in.
Which headset works best with the PS5 Slim?
Reviewers rate the Sony Pulse Elite highly for official support and wireless audio. The Razer Kaira Pro and Astro A50 are third-party alternatives. Choose by budget, comfort and microphone quality.
Do third-party stands fit the Slim?
Only if the maker states Slim compatibility. The Slim’s shape differs from the launch console, and stands made for the original model may not fit securely.
