The PlayStation 5 is an impressive system, but its limited storage space can be a drawback. Unlike the Xbox Series X which offers 1TB, the PS5 only provides 825GB of storage. After accounting for system requirements, users are left with just over 650GB of usable space.
You have the option to install a new SSD in your PlayStation 5, but using external storage to expand your space is a simpler solution. In this guide, we will show you how to use an external hard drive on your PS5.
How to Use an External HDD or SSD on PS5
Before using an external hard drive on the PlayStation 5, ensure that it is compatible. Whether it’s an HDD or SSD, it must support USB 3.0 or later. USB 2.0 external hard drives will not work. Connect your external drive to one of the two USB-A ports on the back of the PS5 as the front USB-A port only supports USB 2.0. Avoid using USB hubs or extension cables.
Your external hard drive should have a capacity between 250GB and 8TB. If you’re still looking for one, refer to our guide on the best external hard drives.
If you are using the same external hard drive on your PS5 that you used on your PS4, the process is straightforward. Simply plug in the drive, follow the prompts, and you’re good to go. Games installed on the drive from your PS4 will be accessible on your PS5. For first-time use, plug in the drive and select Format as Extended Storage when prompted. This will erase all data on the drive, so back up any important data if you are repurposing the drive.
After plugging in and formatting the drive, navigate to the Settings menu. Select Storage > Extended Storage and ensure the Always Install PS4 Games to Extended Storage option is enabled. You can also choose Safely Remove from PS5 to eject the external hard drive properly.
That’s all you need to do. Your PS5 will automatically install new PS4 games to your external hard drive. If you have been relying on internal storage, continue reading to learn how to transfer your PS4 games to an external hard drive.
How to Transfer Your PS4 Games to an External Hard Drive on PS5
If you already have PS4 games installed on your PS5, you can easily transfer them to external storage. Go to Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps to view all installed games and applications on the internal storage. Switch to the Items You Can Move tab, select the games or apps you want to move, and click Move. If transferring large amounts, try smaller batches to avoid issues reported by some users.
What You Can Store on a PS5 External Hard Drive
External storage on the PS5 is primarily for storing and playing PS4 games. You cannot save screenshots or data on the same external drive used for games. Your console will save screenshots, video captures, and data to internal storage by default. You can work around this limitation by following specific steps.
If you wish to save captures on an external drive, connect the drive without formatting it. Access your Library and select Media Gallery to transfer captures by choosing Copy to USB Drive. For data backup, follow Settings > System > System Software > Back Up and Restore. Note that you cannot copy captures while PS4 games are installed on the external drive.
Remember, only backward-compatible PS4 games can be installed on external storage. PS5 games must be on internal storage for optimal performance. The PS5 only supports one external games storage device, limiting you to one external hard drive at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don’t external hard drives work on PS5?
External hard drives do work on the PS5. If you experience issues, check if you are using USB 2.0 cables, connecting to the front USB port, a properly formatted drive, or insufficient space on your hard drive.
Why won’t my PS5 recognize my external hard drive?
If your PS5 doesn’t recognize the external hard drive, ensure it meets compatibility standards. Use a USB 3.0 standard or higher quality cable, connect to the rear USB 3.0 ports directly, and check if the drive works on another device.
Can I use an internal hard drive in my PS5?
You can use an internal hard drive on the PS5 if it meets specific requirements. Refer to our list of recommended SSDs for PS5 to find a compatible hard drive.
