You can play physical PlayStation games on some disc-free PS5 consoles by adding Sony’s detachable Disc Drive—but only if your console is a supported model. Sony lists the CFI-ZDD1 series drive for PS5 Digital Edition CFI-2000 and consoles in the CFI-7000 group, and setup requires an internet connection to pair the drive with the console. Older CFI-1000 Digital Edition consoles do not support disc-based games or media. Check your console’s model number before buying anything.
Check whether your PS5 can use a disc drive
“PS5 Digital Edition” is not enough to establish compatibility. Sony documents different disc support for different model groups:
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- PS5 Digital Edition CFI-2000 and consoles in the CFI-7000 group: Sony lists the CFI-ZDD1 series detachable drive as compatible.
- PS5 Digital Edition CFI-1000: Sony says this model does not support disc-based games or media.
Find the console’s model number and compare it with Sony’s compatibility information before purchasing. Sony’s setup instructions also specify an internet connection to pair the drive and console. See Sony’s PS5 Disc Drive setup and compatibility instructions.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchOption 1: Add Sony’s detachable drive to a supported console
For a compatible newer Digital Edition, the detachable drive adds support for physical media. Sony says it supports PS5 games and supported PS4 titles on Blu-ray, as well as disc movies. The drive is a separate accessory, and current price, stock, and regional availability may vary; check the official PlayStation Direct US product listing and Sony’s compatibility page before ordering.
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- From Jan. 2028, newly released games on PlayStation will be available for purchase on PlayStation Store and at retailers in digital format only. Discs for games released before Jan. 2028 can continue to be played on this device.
- This product is only for PS5 Digital Edition consoles (CFI-2000 model group – slim) or PS5 Pro Consoles
- Drive will play 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, Blu-ray discs and DVDs
- Internet connection is required to pair Disc Drive and PS5 Digital Edition Console upon setup.
- Check the model number on the console and confirm that it belongs to a supported group.
- Obtain the CFI-ZDD1 series drive only if Sony lists it as compatible with that console.
- Follow Sony’s installation instructions. Have an internet connection available so the drive and console can pair during setup.
- Insert a supported game disc to play it. Disc movies and supported PS4 Blu-ray games are also listed as uses for the drive.
Option 2: Use a digital game instead
If your console cannot use the add-on—or you do not want a physical drive—you can play games for which you have a digital license. Digital Edition consoles are designed for downloaded games; compatible digital PS4 purchases may also be playable. Check the specific game’s compatibility and availability in the PlayStation Store. A disc you own does not itself grant a digital license, and availability and pricing depend on the title and region.
Option 3: Upgrade an eligible PS4 disc game on a disc-drive PS5
A PS4 disc cannot be played directly on a PS5 Digital Edition. For an eligible game, Sony may offer an upgrade to a digital PS5 version, but this route requires a PS5 with a disc drive and an internet connection for the upgrade process. The original PS4 disc must stay inserted each time you play the upgraded game; the upgrade does not remove the disc check. Eligibility and offer terms vary by game. Sony explains the conditions in its PS4-to-PS5 game upgrade guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose the route that fits your console and game
| Option | Where it applies | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Add Sony’s detachable drive | Supported newer Digital Edition and CFI-7000-group consoles | Exact console model, drive compatibility, internet pairing, and regional availability |
| Play a digital copy | Digital Edition consoles | Whether your account has a digital license, whether the particular game is compatible, and whether it is available in your region’s Store |
| Upgrade a PS4 disc game | Eligible titles on a PS5 with a disc drive | Game eligibility and offer terms; the PS4 disc is still required for every play session |
If you have a CFI-1000 Digital Edition, the detachable-drive option described here does not make that console disc-capable. Keep the disc for use on a compatible disc-drive console, or obtain a digital license if the game is available digitally.
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