January 15, 2026
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If you’re into PC gaming here in London, you’ve probably noticed everyone talking about PCIe 5.0 SSDs. Shops are pushing them, YouTubers are raving about the speeds, and every new gaming build seems to include one. But the real question most gamers ask is simple:
Do you actually need one, or is it just another expensive upgrade that sounds better than it feels?
Here’s a straightforward, honest breakdown without the hype.
What Makes PCIe 5.0 SSDs So Special?
In plain English, PCIe 5.0 SSDs are the newest generation of super-fast storage. Compared to older SSDs, they can move game files and large data at real fast speeds.
To give you an idea:
Traditional SATA SSD: roughly half a gig per second
On paper, it looks ridiculous, and in many ways, it is. But gaming isn’t just about numbers, so the story is a bit more nuanced.
Do Games Load Faster? Yes… But Not As Much As You’d Think
If you’re expecting your games to suddenly going crazy onto the screen, slow down a moment. In most titles, the difference between a PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 drive is only a couple of seconds.
Nice, sure, but not life-changing.
Where PCIe 5.0 begins to show its strength is with:
• Large open-world games
Massive titles with giant maps, the kind that constantly stream textures in the background, load assets more smoothly. You get fewer stutters or fps drop, fewer sudden texture pops, and a bit more responsiveness as you move around.
• Games built for DirectStorage
Microsoft’s DirectStorage tech is slowly becoming more common, and this is where PCIe 5.0 drives really shine. Future games designed around it will benefit much more than today’s library.
Who in London Actually Benefits From a PCIe 5.0 SSD?
Here’s the truth:
It’s great for you if:
You probably don’t need it if:
It’s very similar to when NVMe SSDs first came out, early adopters get the benefit, but the real advantages show up over the next few years as games catch up.
A Few Downsides You Should Know Before Buying
1. They get hot, proper hot ( It is very concering)
Most PCIe 5.0 SSDs run warm enough that they come with chunky heatsinks, and some even use tiny built-in fans. If your case airflow isn’t ideal (especially in small London flats), you’ll need to consider cooling.
2. The price isn’t small
You’re paying a premium because it’s the latest tech, and early versions are usually more expensive.
3. Current games don’t fully use the speed yet
The benefits are real, but they’re not dramatic across the board. It’s more about preparing for what’s coming rather than squeezing maximum performance out of what you have today.
So, Should You Upgrade? Here’s the London Verdict
If you’re the kind of gamer who likes future-proofing your PC and getting the absolute best performance right now, then yes, a PCIe 5.0 SSD is a solid upgrade. It makes your system feel snappier, it handles next-gen assets better, and it’ll be far more useful as new gamres are released.
But if your main goal is simply “faster loading times,” a PCIe 4.0 SSD still delivers brilliant value and won’t hold back your gaming experience.
For most London gamers, the choice comes down to your budget and how long you plan to keep your current PC. If you want maximum longevity and you’re building a premium rig, PCIe 5.0 is the way forward.
Aamir Mehmood is a Senior IT Consultant & Technology Writer with over 15+ years of experience and one of the founders of Geeks Callout, an award-winning London-based IT support company specialising in PC, MacBook, and gaming repairs. He is recognised for delivering reliable, customer-focused IT solutions. Under his leadership, Geeks Callout has won multiple honours, including the 2023 Business Excellence Award and the 2025 SME UK Enterprise Award. Aamir also writes insightful articles to simplify complex technology, making him a trusted voice in London’s IT community.
