To move a PS5 game to an external USB drive, connect a compatible SuperSpeed USB drive, format it as USB extended storage if necessary, then open Game Library, highlight the game, press Options, choose Move Games and Apps, select the title, and choose Move. The move frees space on the PS5, but a PS5 game stored on USB must be copied back to console storage before it can launch. PS4 games can launch directly from the USB drive.
What moving a game to USB actually does
PS5 consoles use external USB drives mainly as an archive for installed games. Moving an installed title removes its game files from the console’s internal storage and places them on the USB extended-storage drive. You can move the title back later instead of downloading it again or reinstalling it from a disc.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The important limitation is the difference between storage and playable storage. A PS5 game can remain on USB extended storage, but the PS5 cannot run it from there. When you want to play it, copy the game back to the console’s internal storage first. The copy-back operation restores the title to the location from which the PS5 can launch it.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minutePS4 software behaves differently. A PS4 game installed on USB extended storage can be started directly from that drive, so it does not need the extra copy-back step. This distinction applies to the game generation, not to whether the title was purchased digitally or installed from a disc.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Game files are also different from saved data. Moving an installed game does not move your progress, screenshots, settings, or other saved data as a general USB backup. Sony’s storage-management information places PS5 saved data under cloud-storage management rather than USB extended storage. Treat the external drive as a location for installed game data, not as a substitute for a saved-data backup.
Check the external drive before using it
Choose an external hard drive or SSD intended for PS5 USB extended storage. Sony specifies a directly connected SuperSpeed USB device rated at 5 Gbps or faster, with a capacity from 250 GB to 8 TB. Those are the console’s stated limits, not a guarantee that every drive in that range will operate correctly.
| Requirement | What to verify | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| USB performance | SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps or later | A slower device does not meet Sony’s stated extended-storage specification. |
| Capacity | At least 250 GB and no more than 8 TB | Drives outside this range are not within the specified limits for PS5 extended storage. |
| Connection | Plug directly into the PS5; do not use a USB hub | A hub can prevent the console from recognizing or reliably communicating with the drive. |
| Compatibility | Look for a PS5-compatible external USB drive, while recognizing that Sony does not guarantee every device | Manufacturer specifications alone cannot promise that a particular model will work with every console. |
Capacity is the drive’s total space, not the amount that will be available for games after formatting. Formatting creates the PS5 extended-storage file system and removes the space that was previously on the drive. Leave additional room for the games you expect to archive; a drive that barely meets the minimum will fill quickly.
Hard drive or SSD?
Both a conventional external hard drive and an external SSD can serve as USB extended storage when they meet the USB and capacity requirements. The choice affects physical durability, noise, price, and transfer behavior, but it does not change the central rule: PS5 games still have to be copied to internal console storage before play. Select a drive sold for game storage, check its SuperSpeed rating, and keep the purchase documentation in case the drive proves incompatible.
Prepare and format the drive
Formatting is required the first time a drive is used as PS5 USB extended storage. It erases everything already on the drive, so copy any documents, photos, or other files you need to a different location before connecting it for setup.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Turn on the PS5 and connect the external drive directly to a USB port on the console. Do not route it through a USB hub or another intermediary device.
- Open Settings from the home screen.
- Select Storage.
- Open USB Extended Storage.
- Choose Format as USB Extended Storage and follow the confirmation prompts.
- Read the warning carefully and confirm only after verifying that the drive contains no data you still need.
After formatting finishes, the PS5 registers the drive as extended storage and shows its available capacity in the storage interface. If the drive was already formatted as PS4 or PS5 extended storage on another PS4 or PS5, it normally does not need to be formatted again. Reformatting an already prepared drive would erase its installed games, so do not select the format command merely because the drive was used with another compatible console.
If the console asks you to format an old extended-storage drive
Stop before accepting the prompt if the drive contains games you want to keep. Confirm that the cable is seated, reconnect the drive directly, and check whether the console identifies it under Settings and Storage. A drive that was used as ordinary computer storage is not the same as a drive previously configured as PlayStation extended storage; the former requires formatting for this purpose and the latter may be recognized without erasing its game library.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteMove an installed PS5 game to USB
Once the drive is formatted and connected, use the console’s game-library command. The menu label is Move Games and Apps.
- From the PS5 home screen, open Game Library.
- Highlight the installed game you want to archive. Do not start the game.
- Press the controller’s Options button.
- Select Move Games and Apps.
- Choose the game or games to transfer. The selection screen shows the items included in this operation and the space they require.
- Select Move and confirm the destination as the connected USB extended-storage drive if the console presents more than one storage location.
- Leave the PS5 and the drive connected while the transfer runs. Wait for the system to report completion before changing cables or powering down.
The original installation is removed from console storage after the move completes, which is why free internal space increases. A move is not the same as deleting the game: the installed data remains on the USB drive and can be returned to the console later.
Moving several games at once
The selection screen lets you mark multiple eligible games before choosing Move. Use it to clear a large amount of internal space in one operation, but check the combined size against the USB drive’s available capacity. If the selected titles do not fit, reduce the selection and run another move after the first transfer finishes. Keeping the drive connected during a batch transfer avoids repeatedly mounting and disconnecting it.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What happens to add-ons and updates?
The move command works with the installed game data that the PS5 identifies in the storage manager. Review the items shown in the selection list rather than assuming every related file is included. If the console presents a separate item, such as an add-on, select it when you want that data archived too. A game that later needs an update may require the title to be copied back to console storage before you can launch it and apply the update.
Copy a PS5 game back when you want to play
When you select a PS5 game that is stored on USB, the console will not launch it from that location. Copy it back to internal console storage first. The same Move Games and Apps workflow is used in the opposite direction.
- Open Game Library and highlight the PS5 game shown on the USB extended-storage drive.
- Press Options and choose Move Games and Apps.
- Select the game and set the destination to the PS5 console storage.
- Choose Move and wait for the transfer to finish.
- Start the game from the library after the console confirms that the copy is complete.
The time required depends on the amount of data and the drive and connection. Do not unplug the drive simply because the game icon appears in the library; wait until the move status has finished. Once the game is back on console storage, normal launching, patching, and other PS5 game functions can proceed.
Playing PS4 games from the same drive
PS4 games installed on USB extended storage can be played directly. Highlight the PS4 title in Game Library and start it without first moving it to the console. If the title is a cross-generation release, check which installed version is being selected. The PS5 version follows the PS5 storage rule and must be on console storage to launch; the PS4 version can run from USB extended storage.
USB extended storage compared with an internal M.2 SSD
USB extended storage is useful when you want inexpensive capacity for titles you are not playing immediately. The PS5’s internal M.2 SSD expansion is a separate storage option. An appropriately installed M.2 SSD can store and launch PS5 games, while USB extended storage cannot launch them.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Storage location | Can store PS5 games? | Can launch PS5 games directly? | Can launch PS4 games directly? | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS5 console storage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Games you are actively playing, updating, or launching frequently. |
| USB extended storage | Yes | No; copy the game back first | Yes | Archiving PS5 installations and playing PS4 games without using internal space. |
| Compatible internal M.2 SSD expansion | Yes | Yes | Yes | Additional high-speed storage intended to run PS5 games directly. |
Choose USB when your priority is keeping a larger library available without downloading again and you are comfortable moving PS5 titles before play. Consider an M.2 expansion when you need more playable PS5 capacity and are prepared to follow the console’s installation and compatibility requirements. The two approaches can coexist: USB can hold archived PS5 games and PS4 installations while console storage or an M.2 SSD holds the games you currently play.
Safely disconnect the drive
Do not pull the USB cable while a game is moving, while the drive is being accessed, or while the PS5 is shutting down. Sony warns that improper disconnection can cause data loss or corruption and can damage the console or the drive.
- Wait for every move, copy, download, or other storage operation involving the drive to finish.
- Use the PS5’s on-screen command to stop using or safely remove the USB extended storage. The exact wording can vary with the console’s language and system software.
- Wait for the confirmation that the drive is no longer in use.
- Disconnect the cable from the console.
If you need to move the console, disconnect the drive only after using that removal command. Keep the drive in a stable, ventilated position while it is operating, and avoid repeatedly reconnecting it during transfers.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot common problems
The PS5 does not recognize the drive
- Confirm that the drive is connected directly to the PS5 rather than through a hub.
- Check that its capacity is between 250 GB and 8 TB and that it supports SuperSpeed USB at 5 Gbps or faster.
- Try a different USB port and inspect the cable for a loose connection or visible damage.
- Open Settings and Storage to see whether the console lists the drive under USB Extended Storage.
- If the drive was ordinary computer storage, back up its contents and use Format as USB Extended Storage. Formatting permanently erases the existing files.
- If the drive already contains PlayStation games, do not format it until you have confirmed that those games are no longer needed or have been copied elsewhere.
Sony cautions that not every device meeting the headline specifications is guaranteed to work. If the console continues to reject a correctly connected drive, the issue may be compatibility rather than a setting you can change.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
A PS5 game is visible but will not start
That behavior is expected when the title is on USB extended storage. Select Move Games and Apps and copy the game to console storage, then launch it after the transfer completes. Do not repeatedly reinstall the title from a disc or download while the USB copy is still available.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
There is not enough room on the USB drive
Open the USB extended-storage view and check the available capacity before selecting another title. Remove an archived game you no longer need, or move fewer titles in the batch-selection screen. Deleting an installation from USB does not delete your purchase entitlement; it removes the local game files, so the title can be downloaded or installed again later according to how you obtained it.
A transfer stops or reports an error
- Do not unplug the drive while the transfer is paused or displaying an error.
- Wait for the console to return to a normal storage screen, then check whether the source game and the destination drive are still listed.
- Reconnect the drive directly and retry the move with one game instead of a large batch.
- Ensure the PS5 has not entered a shutdown or rest state during the operation and that the cable remains firmly connected.
- If the drive repeatedly fails, stop using it for important data until you have copied anything recoverable elsewhere. Reformatting may resolve a file-system problem, but it erases the drive.
The drive was used with another PS4 or PS5
A drive that was previously configured as PlayStation extended storage generally does not need to be formatted again when connected to another compatible console. If the new console asks to format it, treat that prompt as destructive: formatting removes the games already on the drive. Verify the drive’s contents and your account and console situation before accepting.
Plan a practical storage routine
Use internal console storage for the PS5 games you launch and update regularly. Keep completed, infrequently played PS5 titles on USB so they remain available without consuming internal capacity, and leave PS4 titles on USB when you want to play them directly. Before a large release or update, check both storage locations so you know whether a copy-back operation will be needed.
Recommended Free Tools
- Keep the USB drive connected in the same location when possible, reducing cable movement and accidental unplugging.
- Label the drive physically if you own more than one, but do not assume a label proves compatibility; the console’s storage screen is the authority.
- Maintain free space on both locations so a game can be copied back when needed.
- Use the storage menus to confirm a move completed before deleting anything manually.
- Remember that archiving installed game data does not create a USB backup of PS5 saved data; protect saved progress through the supported saved-data and cloud-storage options.
Quick decision checklist
Use this sequence whenever you need to clear space:
Quick Recap
- Identify whether the title is the PS5 or PS4 version.
- For a PS5 title you are not playing now, connect a compliant USB drive and move it through Game Library > Options > Move Games and Apps.
- For a PS4 title, leave it on USB if you want to launch it directly.
- When a PS5 title is needed again, copy it to console storage before pressing Play.
- Stop using the extended-storage device through the PS5’s on-screen removal command before unplugging it.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
