Is There a Limit to How Many Games You Can Download on the PS5?
The short answer is yes and no. There’s no artificial limit imposed by Sony that restricts the number of games you can download to your PlayStation 5. However, the practical limit is determined by the available storage space on your console. Once you’ve filled up your PS5’s internal SSD or any expanded storage you’ve added, you’ll need to delete games to make room for new ones.
Think of it like a closet. You can hang as many clothes as you want in it, but eventually, you’ll run out of space. The size of your closet (storage space) dictates the number of items you can store. This same principle applies to your PS5 and the games you want to download. The good news is that managing your storage and even expanding it is relatively straightforward.
Understanding PS5 Storage
The PlayStation 5 comes with an 825GB internal SSD. However, due to system software and other pre-installed files, the usable storage space is actually less, typically around 667GB. Modern games are notoriously large, often ranging from 40GB to well over 100GB depending on the title. This means that the base storage fills up quickly.
The number of games you can realistically store on the PS5’s internal drive varies depending on the size of the games. If you’re mostly playing smaller indie titles, you might squeeze in a decent number. However, if you’re a fan of AAA blockbusters like Call of Duty or Horizon Forbidden West, your storage will vanish in a flash.
Factors Affecting How Many Games You Can Store:
- Game Size: This is the biggest factor. The larger the game file, the fewer games you can store.
- Updates and Patches: Games often receive updates and patches that increase their file size over time.
- Captured Media: Screenshots and video clips recorded from your gameplay consume storage space.
- Save Data: Save data for each game also takes up a small amount of storage, but this is usually negligible compared to game installation sizes.
Expanding Your PS5 Storage
Fortunately, Sony provides options to expand your PS5’s storage capacity. You can increase available space through two main methods:
- M.2 SSD Expansion: The PS5 has an internal expansion slot for a compatible M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD. This is the best option for playing PS5 games directly from expanded storage. Adding a 1TB, 2TB, or even 4TB SSD can significantly increase your game library.
- USB External Hard Drive: You can connect an external HDD or SSD via USB to store and play PS4 games. This is a great way to free up space on your internal SSD for PS5 games. However, you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external USB drive. They must be transferred to the internal SSD to be played.
Choosing the Right Storage Expansion:
- M.2 SSD: Opt for this if you want the fastest performance and the ability to play both PS5 and PS4 games from the expanded storage. Ensure the SSD meets Sony’s requirements for speed and compatibility.
- USB External Drive: This is a more cost-effective option for storing and playing PS4 games. It’s also convenient for backing up your save data.
Tips for Managing PS5 Storage
Even with expanded storage, it’s a good idea to manage your storage effectively. Here are some tips:
- Delete Games You No Longer Play: This may seem obvious, but many people forget to remove games they’ve finished or lost interest in. Regularly review your installed games and delete any you’re not actively playing.
- Utilize Cloud Storage for Saves: PlayStation Plus subscribers can back up their game save data to the cloud. This frees up space on your console’s storage and ensures your progress is safe.
- Manage Captured Media: Periodically review and delete any screenshots and video clips you’ve captured that you no longer need.
- Install PS4 Games on External Storage: If you play a lot of PS4 games, installing them on an external drive will keep your internal SSD free for PS5 titles.
- Consider a Storage Upgrade: If you’re constantly running out of space, consider upgrading to a larger internal SSD or adding an external drive.
The Future of Game Storage
As games continue to grow in size and complexity, managing storage will become even more important. Cloud gaming services like PlayStation Plus Premium offer a potential solution, allowing you to stream games without downloading them. However, these services require a stable and fast internet connection and may not be available in all regions.
Ultimately, the best approach is to combine smart storage management with the right storage expansion options for your gaming habits. This will ensure you always have enough space for the games you want to play. Explore how games and learning intersect through resources provided by the Games Learning Society. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much usable storage does the PS5 have out of the box?
The PS5 has 825GB of internal storage, but the usable storage space is typically around 667GB after accounting for system software.
2. What is the maximum storage I can add to my PS5?
You can add up to 4TB via an internal M.2 SSD and up to 8TB via an external USB drive for PS4 games and media.
3. Can I play PS5 games directly from an external USB drive?
No, you cannot play PS5 games directly from an external USB drive. They must be transferred to the internal SSD to be played.
4. What type of SSD do I need to expand my PS5’s internal storage?
You need an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD that meets Sony’s specifications for speed and size.
5. What are the minimum speed requirements for a PS5 SSD?
The SSD must have a sequential read speed of at least 5,500 MB/s.
6. Will any M.2 SSD work with my PS5?
No, not all M.2 SSDs are compatible. You need to ensure it meets Sony’s specifications and has the correct form factor (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110).
7. How do I install an M.2 SSD in my PS5?
Sony provides instructions on their website on how to install an M.2 SSD. Be sure to follow them carefully.
8. Can I use an external HDD to store PS5 games?
You can store PS5 games on an external HDD, but you cannot play them directly from the drive. You must transfer them back to the internal SSD to play.
9. Is it better to use an SSD or HDD for external storage on PS5?
An SSD is faster and offers better performance than an HDD, but it is also more expensive. An HDD is a more cost-effective option for storing PS4 games and media.
10. Does deleting a game also delete my save data?
No, deleting a game does not automatically delete your save data. However, it’s always a good idea to back up your save data to the cloud or a USB drive just in case.
11. How do I back up my PS5 game save data?
You can back up your save data to the cloud if you have a PlayStation Plus subscription or to a USB drive.
12. Can I play PS3 games on my PS5?
The PS5 can play PS3 games via a PS Plus Premium membership, which allows you to stream a selection of PS3 titles. The PS5 can play almost any PS4 games that were released.
13. Why are PS5 game file sizes so large?
PS5 games are large due to factors like high-resolution textures, detailed 3D models, complex audio, and extensive game content. The PS5 also uses a data compression system designed to reduce file sizes without sacrificing quality.
14. What happens if my PS5 storage is full?
If your PS5 storage is full, you’ll need to delete games or media to make room for new downloads. You can also transfer PS4 games to an external drive to free up space on the internal SSD.
15. Is there a way to automatically install PS4 games to external storage?
Yes, you can enable the option “Always Install PS4 Games to USB Extended Storage” in the PS5’s settings. This will automatically install PS4 games to your connected external drive.