Does PS5 Take Forever to Copy? Unraveling the Mystery of PS5 Copy Times

The short answer? It depends. While the PS5 boasts a lightning-fast SSD, the “copying” phase of game installations and updates can sometimes feel like an eternity. Several factors contribute to this perception, and understanding them is key to managing your expectations and potentially speeding things up. Let’s dive deep into the world of PS5 copying, exploring the reasons behind the delays and how to mitigate them.

Why the “Copying” Phase Takes So Long

The “copying” phase on your PS5 isn’t simply transferring data from one location to another. It involves a complex process of decompressing, verifying, and installing game files. This is often misunderstood, leading to frustration when a seemingly small update triggers a lengthy copying process.

Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Download/Install from Disc: The PS5 receives the new or updated data, either from the internet or the Blu-ray disc.
2. Decompression: Compressed files are unpacked to their full size. This is necessary for the PS5 to access and use the game data efficiently. This step can be CPU intensive.
3. Verification: The PS5 checks the integrity of the downloaded or installed files to ensure they haven’t been corrupted during the process. This involves calculating checksums and comparing them to expected values.
4. Installation: Finally, the game data is written to the console’s SSD in the correct location. This may involve reorganizing existing data and creating new file structures.

The time it takes to complete each of these steps depends on several factors:

• Game Size: Larger games naturally take longer to copy due to the sheer volume of data involved. Games like Call of Duty: Warzone or Gran Turismo 7, known for their massive file sizes, will inevitably have longer copy times.
• Update Frequency: Games with frequent updates mean more copying. Constant patching, while improving the gaming experience, also leads to more waiting time.
• Storage Device: While the PS5’s internal SSD is fast, using an external HDD can significantly slow down the copying process.
• System Activity: Running other applications or playing a game while copying can put a strain on the PS5’s resources, leading to longer copy times.
• Internet Connection: A slow or unstable internet connection will make downloading updates take longer, indirectly increasing the overall time spent waiting.

Troubleshooting Slow Copy Speeds

If you’re consistently experiencing long copy times, here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:

• Use the Internal SSD: Ensure that games and updates are being installed on the PS5’s internal SSD. If you have an external HDD connected, the PS5 may default to installing on the slower drive.
• Close Unnecessary Applications: Close any running games or applications before starting a download or installation. This frees up system resources and can improve copy speeds.
• Restart Your PS5: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches that may be affecting copy speeds.
• Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection. Consider using a wired connection (Ethernet) instead of Wi-Fi for faster and more reliable downloads.
• Rebuild Database: Rebuilding the PS5’s database can help optimize the file system and potentially improve copy speeds. This process is safe but can take some time. Go to Safe Mode to perform this.
• Upgrade Your SSD (If Applicable): If you’re using an external SSD, consider upgrading to a faster model. For the internal storage, make sure it’s on the Sony compatible list.
• Rest Mode (Sometimes): While opinions vary, some users report that copying is faster in Rest Mode. However, you cannot install disc-based games while in rest mode.

Understanding Copying vs. Moving

It’s important to distinguish between copying and moving files. Copying duplicates the data, requiring both reading from the source and writing to the destination. Moving, on the other hand, simply changes the file’s location within the same storage device, which is generally much faster. The PS5 primarily uses the copying process for game installations and updates.

Optimizing Your Gaming Experience

While you can’t eliminate the copying process entirely, understanding the factors that influence copy times can help you optimize your gaming experience. By ensuring you’re using the internal SSD, maintaining a stable internet connection, and closing unnecessary applications, you can minimize the waiting time and get back to gaming faster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does the PS5 copy games faster than the PS4?

Yes, the PS5 generally copies games faster than the PS4 due to its significantly faster SSD. However, the copying process still exists and can take time, especially for larger games.

2. Why do PS5 downloads take so long to copy?

The PS5 copying process involves decompressing, verifying, and installing files, which can take time depending on the game size, update frequency, and system activity.

3. Does copying go faster in rest mode on PS5?

Some users report that copying is faster in Rest Mode. This is due to the console dedicating more resources to the task. However, you cannot install games off of discs in Rest Mode.

4. Can I play a game while the PS5 is copying?

It’s generally not recommended to play a game while the PS5 is copying, as it can slow down the copying process and potentially impact game performance.

5. How long does it take to copy a game to PS5?

The time it takes to copy a game to PS5 depends on the game size. Smaller games might take only a few minutes, while larger AAA titles can take 15-30 minutes or longer.

6. Does having a full SSD slow down the copying process?

Yes, having a nearly full SSD can slow down the copying process, as the system needs space to decompress and install files. Freeing up space on your SSD can help improve copy speeds.

7. How many PS5 games can a 1TB SSD hold?

The number of PS5 games a 1TB SSD can hold depends on the size of the games. On average, you can expect to store around 10-20 AAA games, given that most require 50-100GB of storage.

8. Will upgrading my internet speed make copying faster?

Upgrading your internet speed will primarily speed up the downloading of games and updates. However, it won’t directly affect the copying process, which is related to file decompression, verification, and installation.

9. Is it better to download games or install from disc on PS5?

Installing from disc can be faster than downloading, especially if you have a slow internet connection. However, even with a disc, the PS5 often requires downloading updates, which can negate some of the speed advantage.

10. How do I check the copy progress on my PS5?

You can check the copy progress by pressing the PlayStation button to open the Control Center, then selecting “Downloads/Uploads.”

11. Does the PS5 prioritize copying over other tasks?

The PS5 generally prioritizes copying to some extent, but it can still be affected by other tasks running in the background. Closing unnecessary applications can help the PS5 allocate more resources to copying.

12. Why is my PS5 getting slow download speeds?

Slow download speeds can be caused by various factors, including problems with your router, interference, network congestion, or issues with the PlayStation Network (PSN) servers.

13. What is the best way to manage storage space on my PS5?

The best way to manage storage space on your PS5 is to regularly delete games you no longer play, transfer PS4 games to an external HDD, and consider upgrading the internal SSD if you need more space.

14. Can an external HDD be as fast as the internal SSD for PS5 games?

No, an external HDD will generally not be as fast as the PS5’s internal SSD. The SSD provides significantly faster loading times and overall performance. However, an external SSD can offer a performance boost compared to an HDD.

15. Where can I learn more about game design and the technology behind it?

To delve deeper into game design principles and the technology that powers your favorite games, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. They offer resources and insights into the educational aspects of gaming and game development.