How to Make Your PS4 Games Run Smoother on PS5: A Comprehensive Guide
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) isn’t just a powerhouse for next-generation games; it also breathes new life into your existing PlayStation 4 (PS4) library. Thanks to the PS5’s backward compatibility feature, you can enjoy most of your PS4 games on the newer console, often with enhanced performance. But how do you ensure these games run as smoothly as possible? The key lies in understanding how the PS5’s Game Boost feature works and optimizing your console’s settings.
The most straightforward answer to the question of how to make your PS4 games run smoother on PS5 is to simply utilize the console’s built-in Game Boost feature. This feature automatically enhances compatible PS4 titles by utilizing the increased processing power and speed of the PS5. This usually translates to higher and more stable frame rates and improved resolutions in select titles. Beyond that, understanding how to leverage your PS5’s settings and storage effectively can further refine your gaming experience. Let’s explore the steps you can take to maximize the performance of your PS4 games on the PS5.
Optimizing Your PS5 for Enhanced PS4 Game Performance
Understanding Game Boost
The PS5 Game Boost feature is your first line of defense in achieving smoother PS4 gameplay. It’s an automatic function that kicks in whenever you play a compatible PS4 game on your PS5. The increased processing power of the PS5 allows the system to push these older titles beyond their original performance boundaries, resulting in a more fluid and visually appealing experience. This means that many PS4 titles will see performance gains, some may even be significantly improved, with very little effort on the part of the user.
Prioritizing Performance over Resolution
While the PS5 can push some PS4 games to higher resolutions, sometimes a choice must be made between graphics fidelity and performance. On many games, this can be addressed in the game’s options menu. Look for graphics settings and you may find a performance or framerate mode. This might involve a trade-off in visual crispness for a higher frame rate, resulting in a smoother gaming experience overall. This decision is largely based on player preference but those focused on smooth gameplay will always lean towards performance over pure resolution.
Managing Storage for Optimal Performance
While the PS5’s internal SSD is blazing fast, it’s also limited in space. When playing PS4 games on your PS5, you have options regarding storage. You can play PS4 games directly off an external hard drive, but you will not receive the benefits of the PS5’s SSD loading speeds. If load times are a concern, it’s often best to install PS4 games onto the internal SSD, which results in faster loading times than playing from an external HDD. Consider saving the internal drive for PS4 titles you are actively playing. This can help maintain optimal performance throughout your experience.
Configuring Video Output Settings
The PS5’s video output settings can also affect how your PS4 games look and perform. Navigate to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Here, you can ensure that your resolution is set to the highest supported by your display, and that 120Hz output is enabled if supported. Also, selecting “Automatic” for resolution ensures that your PS5 is always outputting the best possible picture quality.
Keeping Your PS5 System Up to Date
Like any piece of technology, the PS5 relies on regular system updates to ensure peak performance and stability. Keeping your console’s software up-to-date can often resolve system bugs or issues that may be impacting game performance. You may find updated graphics drivers or performance enhancements as well. It’s always best to make sure your PS5 is running the newest system software build for optimal gameplay.
Adjusting System Settings
The PS5’s system settings have the potential to enhance your PS4 gaming. For example, disabling features like capture settings, or even notifications during gameplay, can allow your console to devote more processing power to game execution. These changes may be small, but they can make a difference when it comes to maximum smoothness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about PS4 game performance on the PS5, designed to further guide you:
1. Do all PS4 games benefit from Game Boost on PS5?
While most PS4 games are backward compatible, not all games will see the same benefits from Game Boost. Some titles might experience only slight improvements, while others will see significant gains in frame rates and resolution.
2. Can I play PS4 games in 4K on PS5?
Yes, certain PS4 games can be upgraded to a next-gen PS5 version with 4K resolution. However, not all PS4 games will have a 4K upgrade available. In cases without a specific upgrade, the PS5 may still offer enhanced resolutions thanks to Game Boost.
3. Do PS4 games load faster on the PS5’s internal SSD?
Yes, you’ll notice improved loading times on the PS5 compared to playing on a PS4. The PS5’s high-speed SSD dramatically reduces load times, even for PS4 games.
4. Will PS4 games run better from an external hard drive on the PS5?
While you can play PS4 games from an external HDD, you won’t get the full benefit of the PS5’s SSD. For optimal loading speeds, it’s recommended to install the games onto the internal SSD, especially for games you play frequently.
5. Are there PS4 games that won’t work on PS5?
Yes, a small number of PS4 games are not compatible with the PS5, including Afro Samurai 2 Revenge of Kuma Volume One, Hitman Go: Definitive Edition, Just Deal With It!, Robinson: The Journey, Shadwen, TT Isle of Man – Ride on the Edge 2, and We Sing.
6. Does the PS5 automatically upscale PS4 games to 4K?
The PS5 does not automatically upscale every game to 4K. It can, however, provide enhanced resolutions and performance improvements through Game Boost for many titles. Some games offer specific PS5 upgrades that enable true 4K output.
7. Can the PS5 output 4K at 60 FPS in all games?
The PS5 can run games at 4K and 60 FPS, but it’s not universal for every title. Many PS5 exclusives support this, but some games will offer the choice between a higher frame rate and better resolution.
8. What is the best FPS setting for PS5?
The best FPS setting depends on your preferences. Performance mode will prioritize frame rate (potentially 120fps), while resolution mode prioritizes higher resolutions with a lower frame rate. Keeping it on the game’s default setting is often a good choice.
9. How do I enable 120Hz output on PS5?
Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > Allow 120Hz Output and select “Automatic.” You will need a TV that supports 120Hz for this feature to work.
10. Can I transfer PS4 games from my PS4 to the PS5?
Yes, you can transfer your PS4 games and saves to your PS5 via an external drive or over a network connection.
11. Are there any drawbacks to playing PS4 games on the PS5?
While the vast majority of PS4 games play well on PS5, a few features may not function as intended. Some features might even be absent completely. In general, though, the experience is superior to playing on the PS4.
12. Do disc-based PS4 games perform differently than digital copies on PS5?
There is no performance difference between disc and digital versions of PS4 games on the PS5. The console utilizes the same processing power regardless of the game format.
13. Can I store PS4 games on the PS5’s extended storage?
You can store and play PS4 games directly from extended USB storage on your PS5. The SSD is ideal for PS5 optimized games and therefore its best to use the external storage for PS4 titles.
14. Is it worth buying a PS5 if I only plan to play PS4 games?
The PS5 is a worthwhile upgrade, even for playing PS4 games. The faster loading times, improved performance, and the ability to upgrade some PS4 games to next-gen versions make it a worthwhile investment.
15. Will all PS4 discs work on the PS5?
The vast majority of PS4 game discs will work on the PS5. However, be aware of the titles in point number 5, as these are the known incompatible titles.
By understanding the capabilities of your PS5 and optimizing your settings, you can enjoy your PS4 library with enhanced performance and a new lease on life. The PS5 is designed to elevate the experience of playing your favorite games, both old and new.