Rockstar has not confirmed GTA VI’s download size. So the honest starting point is simple: check your console’s available space before buying additional storage, and wait for the official size unless you already need more room for your existing library. This guide covers how to check, when extra storage is actually worth it, and — if you do need it — which drives qualify.
Step 1: Check what you actually have
On PS5, go to Settings → Storage; on Xbox, My games & apps → Manage storage devices. How much headroom you have depends on your model: the original PS5 ships with 825 GB (roughly two-thirds of it usable for games), current PS5 models come in 1 TB versions, and the PS5 Pro has 2 TB. Xbox Series S started at 512 GB and Series X at 1 TB, with newer variants offering more.
A practical bar while the official size is unknown: keep enough free space for one more large current-gen install — recent AAA titles commonly run 100 GB or more. If you can clear that by deleting a game or two you can reinstall later, you don’t need to buy anything.
Step 2: Decide if extra storage is worth it for you
Extra storage makes sense if you’re alreadyjuggling installs — deleting games you still play to make room for new ones. That’s a real problem an SSD solves today, GTA VI or not. If your library fits comfortably, the smart move is to wait: once Rockstar publishes the official size, you’ll know exactly what you need — and if you plan to preload from November 12, you’ll still have time to act then.
If you need it: PS5 drives that qualify
The PS5’s expansion slot takes a PCIe Gen4 M.2 NVMe SSD with effective heat dissipation (a heatsink — many drives include one). Sony recommends sequential read speeds of 5,500 MB/s or faster for the best experience, and lists its full compatibility requirements (size, form factor, clearances) in the official guide linked in Sources. A 2 TB drive gives you comfortable room for a whole library; 1 TB is the cheaper option. Gen4 NVMe drives commonly run in the ~$100 (1 TB) to ~$130–180 (2 TB) range.
Want more options and a closer look at specific tiers? Our full PS5 SSD buying guide compares the WD_BLACK SN850X, Samsung 990 Pro, Seagate FireCuda 530, Corsair MP600 Elite, and Crucial T500 in depth.
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How to install a PS5 SSD
The PS5 has an officialM.2 slot under the side panel — using it keeps your warranty intact. Power down fully, remove the panel and the slot’s screw cover, seat the drive, replace the cover, and the console will prompt you to format it. Follow Sony’s official walkthrough (linked in Sources) rather than a random video.
Xbox Series X|S
Xbox keeps it simple: expandable storage uses the official Storage Expansion Card that plugs into the back of the console — no installation, full next-gen performance. It comes in 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB sizes.
What to avoid
Skip drives that fall short of Sony’s listed requirements or ship without effective heat dissipation — a slower or heatsink-less drive may underperform or throttle in the PS5 slot even if it physically fits. Skip no-name “PS5 compatible” listings without clear Gen4/NVMe/heatsink details, and ignore anyone selling GTA VI keys or “early downloads” — those are scams. Buy storage from reputable retailers only.
Getting fully ready? Our launch-day guide covers preload, account security, and spoiler protection alongside storage.