The PlayStation 5 is perfect for those invested in the Sony ecosystem. With backward compatibility for PS4 games, players can enjoy their favorite titles on the PS5 without having to keep the original console. Additionally, data from your PS4 can be transferred to the new system, meaning your gaming history remains intact as you upgrade. This transition allows you to use the enhanced PS5 controllers and headsets, adding to the overall experience.
So, how do you achieve this data transfer? Here’s a guide on how to move your data from the PS4 to the PS5.
While we can’t predict the future, let’s hope the PlayStation 6 will also support backward compatibility for earlier games.
Steps to Transfer Data from PS4 to PS5
In this section, we’ll concentrate on transferring the data directly from your PS4. We’ll discuss how extended storage functions with your PS5 later.
If you’re initializing your PS5 for the first time, you will be prompted to transfer your data as part of the setup. However, this step can be skipped, enabling you to transfer data at a later time. Depending on how much needs to be transferred, the process may take several hours. Consider starting this before heading to bed or at the start of a workday.
Step 1: Ensure both your PS4 and PS5 are updated to the latest system software. Updates typically occur automatically, but you can confirm your PS4’s software version by navigating to Settings > System Software Update. If your system is current, you will receive a notification.
Step 2: Connect your PS4 to your PS5.
- Log into your PS4 using the same account you plan to use on your PS5.
- Both consoles must be connected to the same network either via Wi-Fi or through an Ethernet cable. Wi-Fi makes the process simpler, but if you prefer a wired connection, using an Ethernet cable is advisable.
- (Optional) For faster data transfer, consider connecting the two consoles with an Ethernet cable. However, Wi-Fi is completely viable for the transfer.
Step 3: Select Continue on the Data Transfer screen.
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Identify the PS4 from which you wish to transfer the data. If you only have one PS4, this will be obvious. If you have multiple PS4s, you’ll need to know your device’s ID.
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To find your PS4’s ID, navigate to Settings > System > System Information, where you’ll see its name. By default, it will read “PS4” followed by a series of numbers. You can rename your PS4 here for easier identification.
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When prompted to “Prepare for Data Transfer,” press and hold your PS4’s Power button until you hear a beep (around one second). Read the precautions thoroughly, and then you may proceed with the transfer.
Step 4: If you missed transferring data during the PS5 setup, you can begin the process manually.
- Simply go to Settings > System Software > Data Transfer and follow the instructions to complete the transfer.
Using PS4 Disks and Extended Storage
As gaming technology has evolved, so have the advantages of extended storage options. Thankfully, you can easily play PS4 games stored on an external storage device by simply connecting it to your PS5. Keep in mind that games offering PS5 upgrades—such as Hitman 3, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, and Cyberpunk 2077—will need to be downloaded to the main storage of your console.
Be sure to transfer the PS4 version back to the extended storage or delete it. You still have the option to move PS5 games to extended storage, so it’s a good idea to transfer those that are not currently in use.
For physical PS4 games, simply insert the disc into your PS5 to download it onto your system storage. This action is contingent on whether you own the disc version of the PS5 or the digital model.
You can also redownload games from the PlayStation Store that you previously purchased. There’s no need to download them back onto your PS4 for this data transfer; you can directly access them on your PS5. For instance, if you claimed Rocket League during its free offer in 2015, you can easily re-download it onto your new console.
If you’re running low on storage, explore how to manage an external drive on your PS5, as there are certain limitations to consider. Additionally, looking into top internal SSD options for PS5 can provide a more effective way to expand your storage capabilities.
