The PlayStation 5 is a powerful console, but its limited storage space can be a frustrating issue. While the Xbox Series X offers 1TB of storage, the PS5 only provides 825GB, leaving users with a mere 650GB after accounting for system files. While you can upgrade the internal SSD, utilizing external storage is a simpler and more cost-effective solution. This guide will walk you through the process of using external hard drives and SSDs on your PS5.
Before connecting an external drive, ensure it meets the PS5’s compatibility requirements. Both hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs) are supported, but only those using USB 3.0 or later. USB 2.0 drives are not compatible. Connect your drive to one of the two USB-A ports located on the back of the PS5; the front USB-A port supports only USB 2.0. Avoid using USB hubs or extension cables. Additionally, your external drive should have a capacity between 250GB and 8TB.
If you’re using the same external drive that you previously used on your PS4, the process is straightforward. Plug in the drive, follow the on-screen prompts, and your previously installed PS4 games will appear on your PS5. For first-time users, select “Format as Extended Storage” when prompted. This action will erase all data from the drive, so back up any important files beforehand.
Once the drive is formatted, access the Settings menu, navigate to Storage > Extended Storage, and ensure that the “Always Install PS4 Games to Extended Storage” option is selected. This setting directs new PS4 game installations to your external storage. You can also safely eject your external drive through this menu by selecting “Safely Remove from PS5”. Failing to do so may lead to data corruption.
If you have PS4 games already installed on your PS5’s internal storage, you can transfer them to external storage. Go to Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps to view your installed games and applications. Switch to the “Items You Can Move” tab and select the content you wish to transfer. To move everything, press “Select All.” Once you’ve selected the desired content, choose “Move” and wait for the transfer to complete. While we’ve tested transferring apps successfully, some users have reported issues with large transfers. If you encounter such problems, consider transferring smaller chunks of data at a time.
The PS5 treats external storage differently than the PS4. External drives are designated for storing and playing PS4 games only. Screenshots, save data, and other media cannot be saved directly to the same external drive.
By default, these items are stored on the PS5’s internal storage. To save captures to an external drive, plug in the drive without formatting it. Access your Library and locate Media Gallery. Select the desired captures and choose “Copy to USB Drive” to transfer them. Similarly, back up your save data by going to Settings > System > System Software > Back Up and Restore.
It’s important to note that you cannot copy captures to an external drive while PS4 games are installed on external storage. You must choose one or the other.
PS5 games require the internal storage, and installing PS4 games to external storage may result in slower loading times due to the drive’s speed.
While you can connect an external drive to either USB-A port on the back of the console, the PS5 can only utilize one external storage device at a time. You cannot connect two external hard drives simultaneously. However, you can connect an external SSD to the USB-C port on the front for captures while using an external hard drive for games on the back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do external hard drives work on PS5?
Yes, they do. If you’re experiencing issues, it could be due to using USB 2.0 cables, connecting to the front USB port instead of the back, improper drive formatting, or insufficient space on your drive. Ensure you’re using a quality USB 3.0 cable or higher and that the drive is properly formatted. Additionally, connect the drive directly to the PS5’s rear USB 3.0 ports, avoiding hubs or other devices. If everything appears to be in order, check if the external drive works on your computer. If it does, the issue likely lies with the PS5’s settings.
Can I use an internal hard drive on the PS5?
Yes, you can use an internal hard drive, but it must meet specific requirements. Refer to our list of the best SSDs for PS5 to ensure you choose a qualifying drive.
