How to transfer data from your PS4 to PS5

PlayStation 5 was nearly impossible to find when it launched in 2020, with inventory shortages hitting every retailer immediately after a restock. That's no longer the case, however, and PS5 is now readily available wherever you look. One of the most useful PS5 features is backward compatibility with PS4 — allowing you to play your old games without needing to cling onto the aging hardware. That also means you can transfer your PS4 data to PS5, ensuring none of your adventures are forgotten when upgrading to the new-gen console.

But how exactly does this transfer process work? Here's everything you need to know about transferring data from PS4 to PS5.

Difficulty

Duration

What You Need

• Wi-Fi connection

• PlayStation 4

• PlayStation 5

• Ethernet cable (optional)

How to transfer data from your PS4 to PS5

For this section, let's focus on transferring the hard data that's on your PS4. Later on, we'll dive into how extended storage works with your PS5.

If you're setting up a brand new PS5 for the first time, you'll be prompted to transfer your data during the setup process. However, you can skip this step initially and transfer data later on. Depending on the data size, this transfer may take several hours. You might want to initiate it before bed that night or work the following day.

Step 1: Update your PS4 and PS5 to the latest system software. These are usually automatic, but you can check on the status of your PS4 system software by going to Settings > System software update. If you're up to date, you'll be notified as such.

Step 2: Connect your PS4 to your PS5.

• On your PS4, sign in to the same account you plan to use on your PS5.
• Connect both consoles to the same network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable. However, connecting is easier to do over Wi-Fi, as you'll want an Ethernet cable to connect the two systems.
• (Optional) Connect your two systems with an Ethernet cable. An Ethernet connection makes the transfer faster but isn't necessary. Everything can