How to Move Saved Data from PS4 to PS5: A Gamer’s Guide

So, you’ve finally ascended to the glorious realm of PS5 gaming! Congratulations! But before you dive headfirst into the next generation, a crucial task awaits: migrating your hard-earned progress from your PS4. Fear not, fellow gamer, for transferring your saved data is a relatively straightforward process, and I’m here to guide you through it with the expertise honed over years of virtual battles and digital conquests.

The process of moving your saved data from a PlayStation 4 to a PlayStation 5 can be accomplished through three primary methods: cloud storage (PlayStation Plus), data transfer over your local network, or using an external USB drive. Each method has its own advantages and considerations, so the best choice depends on your specific circumstances, like your internet speed and PlayStation Plus subscription status. Let’s break down each approach in detail.

Method 1: Cloud Storage (PlayStation Plus)

This is arguably the most convenient method, provided you’re a PlayStation Plus subscriber. It leverages Sony’s cloud infrastructure to seamlessly move your saves.

How it Works:

1. Ensure you have PlayStation Plus: This is non-negotiable for this method. If you don’t have it, you’ll need to subscribe.
2. Upload Saves on PS4: On your PS4, navigate to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Upload to Online Storage. Select the game saves you want to transfer and upload them to the cloud.
3. Download Saves on PS5: On your PS5, go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > Cloud Storage > Download to Console Storage. Choose the games you wish to retrieve and download their saves.

Advantages:

• Convenient: It’s a wireless process, minimizing physical interaction with your consoles.
• Accessible: Your saves are available as long as you have a PlayStation Plus subscription, even if something happens to your PS4.

Disadvantages:

• Requires PlayStation Plus: This is the biggest hurdle.
• Dependent on Internet Speed: Upload and download times can be significant if you have a slow internet connection.

Method 2: Data Transfer via Local Network

This method directly transfers data between your PS4 and PS5 using your home network. It’s generally faster than cloud storage, especially for large amounts of data, if your network is speedy.

How it Works:

1. Connect Both Consoles to the Same Network: Ensure both your PS4 and PS5 are connected to the same local network, preferably via Ethernet cables for optimal speed and stability.
2. Prepare Your PS5: On your PS5, go to Settings > System > Data Transfer.
3. Initiate Transfer on PS4: Your PS5 will guide you through the process. It will search for your PS4 on the network. Follow the on-screen prompts on both consoles. You’ll likely need to press and hold the power button on your PS4 to confirm the connection.
4. Select Data to Transfer: Choose the games, saved data, and other content you want to transfer from your PS4 to your PS5.
5. Wait for the Transfer to Complete: This can take a while, depending on the amount of data being transferred. Ensure both consoles remain powered on and connected to the network throughout the process.

Advantages:

• Potentially Faster: It’s often faster than uploading and downloading via the cloud, especially for large save files.
• No PlayStation Plus Required: This is a great option if you’re not subscribed to the service.

Disadvantages:

• Requires Both Consoles: You need access to both your PS4 and PS5 simultaneously.
• Can be Network Dependent: A slow or unstable network can lead to errors and prolonged transfer times.

Method 3: Using an External USB Drive

This method utilizes a USB drive to physically transport your saved data from one console to the other. It’s a reliable option if you have a slow internet connection or want a more direct approach.

How it Works:

1. Format the USB Drive (if necessary): The USB drive needs to be formatted as exFAT or FAT32.
2. Copy Saves to USB Drive on PS4: On your PS4, navigate to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Copy to USB Storage Device. Select the game saves you want to transfer and copy them to the USB drive.
3. Connect USB Drive to PS5: Plug the USB drive into your PS5.
4. Copy Saves from USB Drive to PS5: On your PS5, go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > USB Drive > Copy to Console Storage. Select the games you want to retrieve and copy their saves to the PS5.

Advantages:

• Independent of Internet Connection: Doesn’t rely on internet speed.
• Reliable: A more direct and controlled transfer method.

Disadvantages:

• Requires a USB Drive: You’ll need a USB drive with sufficient storage space.
• More Manual: Involves physically moving the USB drive between consoles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions that arise during the PS4 to PS5 save data transfer process:

1. Can I transfer all my PS4 games to PS5?

Not all PS4 games are compatible with the PS5. However, a vast majority of them are. Check the game’s compatibility before attempting to transfer it. Even if a game works on PS5, save transfer isn’t always supported.

2. Do I need to delete the save data on my PS4 after transferring it?

No, you don’t need to. Keeping a backup on your PS4 can be a good safety net in case something goes wrong with the transfer. However, you can delete them to free up space if desired.

3. What if I don’t have PlayStation Plus?

You’ll need to use either the data transfer over your local network method or the USB drive method.

4. Can I transfer my PS4 game discs to my PS5?

Yes, you can play PS4 game discs on your PS5, provided you have the standard PS5 with a disc drive. Simply insert the disc into your PS5. You may need to download an update.

5. How long does the data transfer process take?

The transfer time depends on the amount of data being transferred and the method you’re using. Cloud storage speed is dependent on your internet connection. Network transfers are usually faster. USB transfers are usually the fastest.

6. Will my game trophies transfer with my save data?

Yes, your trophies are linked to your PlayStation Network account and will automatically sync to your PS5 when you log in.

7. I’m getting an error message during the data transfer. What should I do?

Ensure both consoles are connected to the same network. Restart both consoles and try again. If the issue persists, check your internet connection or try a different transfer method. Also, confirm the saves are not corrupted.

8. Can I transfer save data from a PS4 to a PS5 if they are in different locations?

Yes, using cloud storage (PlayStation Plus) or a USB drive will work if the consoles are in different locations. Network transfer requires both consoles to be on the same local network.

9. Can I transfer save data for all games?

While most games support save data transfer, some may have restrictions or use proprietary save formats that are not compatible. Always check the specific game’s documentation or online forums to confirm compatibility.

10. My save data is not showing up on my PS5 after the transfer. What should I do?

Ensure you are logged in to the same PlayStation Network account on both consoles. Check that the save data was successfully transferred and is located in the correct storage location on your PS5. Restart the game and see if the saves are recognized.

11. Can I transfer my PS4 themes and settings to PS5?

Some system settings will transfer during the data transfer process, but themes are not directly transferable. You’ll need to download new themes from the PlayStation Store on your PS5.

12. Is there a way to transfer data from PS3 to PS5?

Unfortunately, there is no direct method to transfer data from PS3 to PS5. However, some games offer cross-buy or cross-save functionality, allowing you to download a PS4 or PS5 version of the game and potentially transfer your progress through the game’s online servers (if the game supports it).