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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →You can play compatible PS4 games directly from a USB extended-storage drive on PS5. You cannot play PS5 games directly from an external hard drive: move them back to PS5 console storage or an installed M.2 SSD first. An external drive is useful for keeping PS4 games playable and archiving PS5 games between sessions.
Can I play PS5 games directly from an external hard drive on PS5?
No. A PS5 game stored on USB extended storage must be copied back to console storage or moved to an installed M.2 SSD before you can play it. PlayStation states that PS5 games “can’t be played directly from USB extended storage.” Sony’s USB extended-storage guidance explains the limitation.
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You can use an external USB drive to free up space by moving PS5 games onto it, then copy a game back when you want to play. If your goal is to keep PS5 games installed and playable without moving them back and forth, an M.2 SSD that meets Sony’s requirements is the relevant expansion option.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchCan I play PS4 games from an external hard drive on PS5?
Yes. Compatible PS4 games can be installed to USB extended storage and launched directly from that drive on a PS5. This can be useful if you already have a compatible drive used with a PS4; Sony says an existing PS4 or PS5 extended-storage drive can be connected without reformatting. See PlayStation’s PS4 backward-compatibility guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Do not confuse extended storage for games with a regular USB drive used for files such as media or PS4 save-data transfers. They are different uses of USB storage, and game saves have separate storage rules.
What external drive works with PS5?
Sony specifies SuperSpeed USB with a capacity from 250 GB to 8 TB for external storage. Its listed SuperSpeed USB classes are 5, 10, or 20 Gbps; these are interface specifications, not a promise of a particular game-loading speed. Not every drive is guaranteed to work. Connect it directly to the console rather than through a USB hub. Check Sony’s external-storage specifications before buying or reusing a drive.
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- Ultra-fast Data Transfers: Works with USB 3.0 technology, this USB hard drive is much faster than - but still compatible with - USB 2.0 backup drive, allowing for super fast transfer speed at up to 5 Gbps
- Ultra Slim and Sturdy Design: Merely 0.6 inch thick. Sturdy plastic anti-scratch model delivers remarkable strength,durability and reliability
- Multi- Compatibility: Microsoft Windows, Mac OS (10.6.5 and above), Linux, Android, Chromebook, PC, Laptop, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, TV and so on
- Plug and Play: The drive has been formatted. It's ready to use without software installation needed. You can save and backup any files, movies, music, photos, games and more
- Upgraded Version USB Cable: The drive with 2in1 Micro-USB 3.0 Cable, The multifunction USB cable can match different connect port and stabilize the transmission speed
How to set up an external hard drive on PS5
- Check the drive and back up its contents. Confirm that it meets Sony’s capacity and SuperSpeed USB requirements. Formatting a new drive as USB extended storage erases its existing data, so copy anything you want to keep somewhere else first.
- Connect the drive directly to the PS5. Do not connect it through a USB hub.
- Format it as extended storage if prompted. Follow the on-screen instructions to format the drive for USB extended storage. Formatting deletes the drive’s contents. Menu wording can vary with system software, so follow the current prompts on the console.
- Review storage and game locations. Open Settings > Storage to check available space and manage game data. Sony’s storage-management guide describes the console’s storage options.
How to install, move, and play games
Install or play a PS4 game from USB extended storage
Choose USB extended storage as the installation location for supported PS4 games. Once installed there, a compatible PS4 game can be played directly from the drive.
Move a PS5 game to the drive, then copy it back to play
Use the console’s game and app management options to move a PS5 game to USB extended storage when you need to make room. When you want to play it again, locate the installed game in your Game Library and choose Copy, or use the console’s Move Games and Apps flow to transfer it to console storage or an M.2 SSD. Wait for the transfer to finish before launching the game.
Rank #3
- Easily store and access 1TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive.Specific uses: Personal
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop. Reformatting may be required for Mac
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Safely disconnect the drive
Do not unplug extended storage while the PS5 is on or in rest mode. Sony says the console’s power indicator must be completely off before you disconnect the drive. Use the console’s option to stop using extended storage when available, then wait until the indicator is off.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which storage option fits your goal?
| Option | What it does | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| USB extended storage (external HDD or SSD) | Plays compatible PS4 games directly; stores PS5 game data for later. | PS5 games must be moved back before play. |
| Internal M.2 SSD | Stores PS5 and PS4 game data and can be used as a play location. | Must meet Sony’s M.2 requirements and be installed in the console. |
| Delete and redownload | Frees console storage; purchased games can be downloaded again from the Game Library. | You must download the game again when you want it. |
For details on console storage categories and managing installations, see PlayStation’s storage-management page.
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