Since almost every PS4 game is compatible with the PS5, here’s how to transfer your data between the two consoles.
This one is for anyone out there with lengthy save files and an impressive library of PS4 games. It’s time to do a data transfer of everything from your PS4 onto your shiny new PS5.
Sony is nice enough to let you get back to your favourite games like Ghost of Tsushima without re-downloading the entire thing again. Whether you want to transfer your full library or just a couple of save files, we’ve got you covered.
Transferring save files
If you just want to carry your save files onto your new device, you can do this via the PlayStation cloud service or a USB drive. Using their cloud services does require a PlayStation Plus subscription which costs $60 a year, but that USB stick you’ve got lying around will also work just fine.
On your PS4 go from Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Upload to Online Storage/Copy to USB Storage Device.
Select the save files you want and upload/copy them over to your cloud or USB drive. Do note that you can just turn on Auto Upload to skip this step entirely.
Hop back to your PS5 and from Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > Cloud Storage/USB Drive.
Select everything you’ve brought over to copy onto your PS5 and you’re done.
Complete Data Transfer
You’re going to need to have both your PS4 and your PS5 plugged in with an internet connection (we suggest using a LAN cable over WiFi). It’s recommended to have two screens so you can check the progress on both devices, but you can also just switch the HDMI cable between the consoles.
Make sure your PS4 has its systems updated. On your PS5, select the full data transfer on set-up or go to Settings > System > System Software > Data Transfer from the home menu. Make sure both consoles are on and are connected the the internet.
You’ll be prompted to press the power button on the PS4 for a second until you hear the beep. Do this to restart the PS4 and the data transfer process will begin when it restarts. Select the games you want to transfer over and hit Enter to continue. This will transfer both the game and its save file over to your PS5.
The Ready to Transfer screen you’re on now indicates how much time is left. You can add and remove games during this time (we get it, some games just aren’t worth bringing over after all). Do note that your PS4 may turn on and off – this is completely normal.
Once it’s done, the PS5 will restart to start unpacking and installing your game files. It’ll restart once more, and then you should see see all your old PS5 games on your new device. Congratulations, you’re finally done!
Visit the PlayStation site for technical support and further information.
