How to Connect Your PS4 to Your PS5: A Comprehensive Guide
Connecting your PlayStation 4 (PS4) to your PlayStation 5 (PS5) opens a world of possibilities, from transferring game saves to enjoying Remote Play. Whether you’re looking to smoothly transition to your new console or simply want to explore cross-generation features, this guide will walk you through the essential steps. Here’s the direct answer: To connect your PS4 to your PS5, you will need both consoles to be on the same network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable. Crucially, you must also be signed in to the same PlayStation Network (PSN) account on both consoles. This enables data transfer, Remote Play, and other cross-generation functionalities. Let’s delve deeper into each aspect of connecting your consoles.
Setting the Stage for Connection
Before diving into the actual connection process, it’s crucial to prepare both your PS4 and PS5. This will ensure a smooth and efficient experience:
- Sign in to the Same PSN Account: The most important step is to log in with the same PSN account on both your PS4 and your PS5. Your PSN account links your game data, friends list, and purchase history, enabling seamless cross-platform interactions.
- Network Connection: Both consoles need to be connected to the same network, either through Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable. While Wi-Fi offers greater convenience during setup, an Ethernet cable connection often provides a more stable and faster transfer speed. For the best data transfer results, it’s recommended to use Ethernet cables for the transfer, if possible, and connect to the internet via Wi-Fi.
- Update System Software: Make sure both your PS4 and PS5 are running on the latest system software. Navigate to the system settings on each console to check for and install any available updates.
- Position your Consoles: Place your PS4 and PS5 in the same general area, or at least close enough for an Ethernet connection, to allow for faster and more convenient transfers of data.
Connecting Your PS4 and PS5
The connection process is primarily focused on data transfer during the initial PS5 setup, but you can connect them for other purposes, like Remote Play, later.
Data Transfer During PS5 Setup
When you first set up your PS5, the system will prompt you to transfer data from your PS4. Here’s how:
- Start PS5 Initial Setup: Power on your PS5 and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Choose Data Transfer: When prompted, select the option to transfer data from your PS4.
- Connect to the Network: Ensure both consoles are connected to the same network, either wired (Ethernet) or wirelessly (Wi-Fi).
- Follow On-screen Instructions: The PS5 will guide you through the process. It may ask you to press the power button on the PS4 for a few seconds to confirm the connection.
- Select Data to Transfer: You’ll be able to choose what you want to transfer, including game saves, games, and user profiles. Note that you can also choose to skip this step and do it later.
Data Transfer After Initial Setup
If you chose to skip the data transfer during initial setup, you can still transfer data later via these options:
- Network Transfer: The easiest method is to transfer using your home network connection. Go to Settings > System > System Software > Data Transfer on your PS5 and follow on-screen prompts.
- External Storage: You can also transfer data using an external hard drive. Copy your PS4 games to an external storage drive connected to your PS4. Once done, plug that external drive into your PS5 to access your data.
- Downloading from the PSN: For games and saves purchased digitally, you can simply re-download them from the PSN on your PS5.
Using Remote Play
You can also connect your consoles to stream from your PS5 onto your PS4. To do this:
- Enable Remote Play: On your PS5, navigate to Settings > System > Remote Play, and enable the feature.
- Download Remote Play App: On your PS4, download the PS Remote Play app from the PlayStation Store.
- Sign In: Sign in to the same PSN account as used on your PS5.
- Connect to PS5: Follow the prompts in the app to connect to your PS5.
What to Expect After Connecting
Once connected, you can enjoy the following benefits:
- Seamless Transition to PS5: Transferring saves and games allows you to continue your adventures from where you left off on your PS4.
- Remote Play Access: Stream and play your PS5 games on your PS4, effectively using your PS4 as a second console for your PS5 content.
- Cross-Generation Play: While PS4 controllers cannot be used to play PS5 games, you can still play PS4 games on your PS5. Additionally, you can also play with others that have either a PS4 or a PS5, using the same PSN account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about connecting your PS4 to your PS5, to provide further clarity and assistance.
Do I need to transfer data from PS4 to PS5?
Yes, if you wish to continue playing games from where you left off on your PS4, you’ll need to transfer your save data to your PS5. This includes game progress, user profiles, and other relevant data.
Do my PS4 games transfer to PS5?
Yes, PS4 games can be transferred to your PS5. You can transfer them using the network, via an external hard drive, or redownload them from your PSN account.
How do I share play between PS4 and PS5?
To use Share Play, invite a friend to a party via the Invite Players screen. Then, load the game you want to play, press the share button, and select Share Play. This function works across PS4 and PS5 consoles.
Can PS4 and PS5 use the same account and play together?
Yes, you can use the same PSN account on both your PS4 and PS5. Your account data is tied to the PSN, not a specific console. This allows you to play with your friends regardless of whether they are on a PS4 or PS5.
Can a PS4 controller work on PS5?
Yes, a PS4 controller (DualShock 4) can connect to a PS5, but it cannot be used to play PS5 games. It is primarily used for playing PS4 games on your PS5.
What happens when you transfer PS4 to PS5?
During data transfer, your PS5 will automatically restart. Some data may continue to transfer even after the restart, but you can use the console while this process is in progress.
Do PS4 games look better on PS5?
Most PS4 games will look the same on PS5 as they did on the PS4. However, some PS4 games may receive an upgrade patch that allows for better visuals and enhanced gameplay on the PS5.
How long does it take to transfer data from PS4 to PS5?
Data transfer time varies depending on the amount of data being transferred. It can take from a few minutes to several hours, especially if transferring large game libraries.
How much does a PS5 cost?
The PS5 with a disc drive is typically priced at $499, while the Digital Edition without a disc drive is priced at $399.
How much does PS Plus cost?
PS Plus Premium is the highest tier, costing about $18 per month, $50 for three months, or $160 for a full year. There are also lower-tier subscription options.
What to do with PS4 after getting a PS5?
You can use your PS4 as a secondary console for streaming your PS5 games via Remote Play.
How much storage does the PS5 have?
The PS5 comes with an 825GB SSD, but only 667.2GB is available for use, due to system files.
How long can a PS5 run for?
A PS5 should run for a long time without overheating, unless it is in an enclosed area or has a defect.
Is PS5 faster than PS4?
Yes, the PS5 is significantly faster than the PS4, thanks to its enhanced processing power and SSD storage. This leads to faster loading times and improved graphics.
Can you cancel the PS4 to PS5 transfer?
You can stop the transfer during initial setup. However, this is not advised due to the possibility of data corruption.
Conclusion
Connecting your PS4 to your PS5 is a straightforward process that offers numerous benefits. Whether you’re transferring game data, using Remote Play, or simply playing cross-generation games, understanding these steps will help you make the most of both consoles. By following this guide, you can transition smoothly to your new PS5 and continue enjoying your gaming adventures without a hitch.