Factory resetting your PS5 can be beneficial for various reasons, whether you intend to sell the console or simply want to resolve recurring issues. This process will help you get back to enjoying your favorite PS5 games or ensure your console is ready for a new owner.
We’ll break down the process into two main sections: a quick step-by-step guide and a more detailed explanation for those who prefer a thorough approach. If you want to back up your game data and user settings before resetting, make sure to do that. Help with syncing a PS5 controller is available in a separate guide.
How to Reset a PS5: Quick Guide
There are multiple reset methods on the PS5, which we will explain below. Following the steps here will completely wipe your console, including user data and saved games. If you need to back up your content first, refer to the detailed guide below.
Step 1: Open the Settings menu (represented by the gear icon).
Step 2: Select System.
Step 3: Choose System Software.
Step 4: Go to Reset Options.
Step 5: Click on Reset Your Console.
Step 6: Finally, click Reset.
After several minutes, your PS5 will reset and present the standard setup screen. If you’re preparing to sell or trade in your console, you can finish here. For troubleshooting or other purposes, continue with the setup process as needed.
In-Depth Resetting of Your PS5
While performing a factory reset on your PS5 is relatively straightforward, there are several reset options that may not be clearly outlined by the console. Below, you’ll find detailed explanations of the three reset options available.
Step 1: Go to System Software.
To begin, power on your PS5 and log into your account. Navigate to the Settings menu from the home screen, which you can reach by pressing and holding the PS button on your DualSense controller if you’re in a game.
Look for the cog icon in the upper right corner of the home screen to access the Settings menu, then proceed to System > System Software. You will find the reset options here but refrain from selecting them just yet.
Step 2: (Optional) Back Up Your Data
Before choosing Reset Options, select Back Up and Restore to save your games, applications, and other data to a USB drive before proceeding with the reset. This is crucial if you are not a PlayStation Plus subscriber, as your save data is stored locally. Even if you are subscribed, it’s wise to back up to ensure you have a safe copy of your information.
To back up your data, a USB 3.0 storage device is required. You can refer to our guide on the best external hard drives for suggestions.
Step 3: Select Your Reset Option.
Once you’ve secured your data, go back to System Software and click Reset Options. The PS5 offers three reset methods; aside from the “Reset Your Console” option, the descriptions can be vague. Here’s a summary of what each setting does:
Clear Learning Dictionary: This option removes all terms you have entered, which the PS5 uses to predict what you may search for. It won’t affect your saved games, applications, or user data.
Restore Default Settings: This resets all console settings back to their original factory defaults but leaves saved data, games, applications, and user data intact.
Reset Your Console: This option erases everything on your PS5 and performs a complete reset. Use this choice only if you’re giving away or selling your console or if you wish to start from scratch.
Select the option that aligns with your needs, and you’re ready to proceed. If you opt for a factory reset, again, ensure you back up your data before continuing, even if you have PlayStation Plus.
