Do You Have to Leave the Disc in for a Game to Download on PS5?

The simple answer is no, you do not need to leave the disc in your PlayStation 5 for a game to download. However, that comes with a crucial distinction: you absolutely do need the disc in the console for the initial installation of game data. This might sound confusing, so let’s break it down. The PS5, like its predecessors, uses a physical disc to provide the base game files. These files need to be copied from the disc onto the console’s internal storage. Think of the disc as the source material for the game’s data. The console takes that data and installs it before you can play. Once the game is installed, you can start the game for the first time. Any additional content like patches or updates are then downloaded through your internet connection. The disc is not required to download updates.

This means that if you purchase a physical game on disc, you must keep the disc in your console until the entire game data is copied onto your storage. If you remove the disc prematurely during the installation process, it will pause, and you will be prompted to insert the disc again to resume the process. Once the initial installation is complete, the disc is primarily used as a verification measure to confirm that you own the game.

Installation vs. Downloading: Understanding the Difference

It’s essential to distinguish between installation and downloading when talking about game files on the PS5.

Installation

Installation refers to the process of transferring the game data from the physical disc to your console’s internal storage or external SSD. This process is essential to make the game playable on your PS5. The disc has to remain in the drive during this process.

Downloading

Downloading, on the other hand, refers to the process of acquiring data from a remote server over an internet connection. This usually includes game patches, updates, or additional content (DLC) that are not included on the physical disc. You do not need the disc in the PS5 for any downloading to take place.

Why is the Disc Still Needed After Installation?

The disc serves as a sort of key. Even though the game files are stored on your console, your PS5 still needs the disc inserted into the console’s drive to verify that you have the right to play the game. This is a crucial mechanism to prevent piracy and ensure that you’re using a legally obtained copy of the game.

How Does This Work With Digital Games?

For purely digital games that are bought from the PlayStation Store, there is no disc to deal with at all. The entire game is downloaded from the servers, and therefore there’s no installation stage from a physical media. The game, updates, and all content are downloaded using your internet connection. Once it’s downloaded, it’s installed and ready to play.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about game installations and downloads on the PS5:

1. Can I install a game from a disc while my PS5 is in rest mode?

No, you can’t install a game from a disc while your PS5 is in rest mode. The console needs to be fully powered on with the disc in the drive to install the game’s files onto your storage. Rest mode is mainly used for downloads and system updates.

2. Can I download game updates or patches while in rest mode?

Yes, your PS5 can download game updates, patches, and DLC while in rest mode, regardless of whether the game disc is in the drive or not. This feature allows you to keep your games updated automatically.

3. Do I still need to download a game if I have the disc?

Yes, you still need to install the game from the disc. The game isn’t directly played off of the disc. Once installed, the disc then is required as a form of ownership verification before the game launches.

4. Can I take the disc out while the game is installing?

No, you must not remove the disc during the installation process. Doing so will interrupt the install and you will have to insert it to continue.

5. Can I get the digital version of a game if I have the disc on PS5?

Some games offer a paid digital upgrade from the disc version. However, this depends on the specific game and its publisher. If an upgrade is available, an internet connection is required to download the digital license.

6. Can a game download while the PS5 is off?

No. The console has to be in rest mode and connected to the internet to automatically download games and updates. A fully powered-off PS5 will not download anything.

7. Does the PS5 download faster in rest mode?

It’s often reported that the PS5 downloads faster in rest mode, as this allows the console to dedicate all of its network bandwidth to the download process.

8. Why do PS5 downloads take so long?

Slow PS5 download speeds can be caused by many issues, including Wi-Fi bandwidth, server congestion, and issues with your network. Try using a wired ethernet connection or switching to a 5 GHz Wi-Fi band for faster downloads.

9. Why does the PS5 take so long to copy game files?

Copying game files is part of the installation process and is influenced by the size of the game and speed of your storage. Adding a SSD can speed up copying, but even the PS5’s internal SSD may take time for large games.

10. How can I speed up my download speeds?

You can speed up your PS5 downloads by using a wired connection, downloading one file at a time, updating system software, and downloading in rest mode. Also, ensure your network is using a 5GHz connection to your router.

11. Do games download faster on disc or digital?

Generally, disc is faster for initial setup because it involves a local transfer rather than internet downloading. Digital downloads are fully reliant on the speed of your connection. Once installed, performance will be identical between disc and digital copies.

12. Is it better to put the PS5 in rest mode or turn it off?

The PS5 is designed to be left in rest mode when not in use as this allows for automatic downloads and updates. Rest mode also enables remote play. Turning the console completely off means missing out on these features.

13. Can I play downloaded PS5 games offline?

Yes, you can play games you have downloaded, and have the appropriate license for, even when the console is offline. However, you must enable console sharing and offline play in your settings.

14. Is it safe to unplug your PS5 in rest mode?

No, you should not unplug your PS5 while it’s in rest mode as the system is still active. Always ensure the console is fully powered down before disconnecting the power cord.

15. Is it better to buy disc or digital games?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both. Disc games are typically cheaper and can be traded in, while digital games are more convenient and don’t require physical media. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.

Conclusion

To summarise, while you don’t need to keep the disc in your PS5 for downloads, you must keep the disc in the console during the initial installation process. The disc is also needed to launch and verify that you are able to play the game you own. Understanding the difference between downloading and installing is key to having a smooth PS5 experience.