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What USB Formats Does PS5 Read? A Comprehensive Guide

The PlayStation 5 (PS5) offers expanded storage and functionality through its USB ports. Understanding which USB formats the console supports is crucial for using external storage devices, transferring media, and ensuring compatibility. The PS5 primarily reads FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS file systems on external USB drives. For extended storage, specifically for playing PS4 games, the exFAT format is essentially mandatory.

Understanding USB Format Compatibility on the PS5

The PS5’s ability to recognize and utilize external drives hinges on the file system used to format that drive. Let’s break down each supported format:

FAT32: This is an older file system with a significant limitation: it cannot handle files larger than 4GB. While the PS5 can read FAT32, its practical use is extremely limited, primarily for small media files or legacy devices. You won’t be able to install games or transfer large video files using this format.
exFAT: This is the most versatile and recommended format for use with the PS5. ExFAT overcomes the 4GB file size limitation of FAT32 and is compatible with both Windows and macOS. You can use exFAT-formatted drives for storing and playing PS4 games (but not PS5 games directly), transferring media files like videos and music, and backing up save data.
NTFS: This is the standard file system used by Windows. The PS5 can read NTFS formatted drives, meaning you can access media files like videos, music, and images. However, you cannot install PS4 games or use NTFS for extended storage for PS4 games. Its utility is largely confined to media playback and file transfer from NTFS-formatted devices.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Format

When selecting a file system for your external drive, consider the following:

Intended Use: Will you primarily use the drive for PS4 game storage, media playback, or both? ExFAT is the clear choice for PS4 game storage, while both exFAT and NTFS can handle media.
File Size: Do you plan to transfer files larger than 4GB? If so, FAT32 is not an option.
Operating System Compatibility: Ensure the chosen format is compatible with the operating systems you’ll be using to manage files on the drive (Windows, macOS). ExFAT is generally the most cross-compatible option.

How to Format a USB Drive for PS5 Use

Warning: Formatting a drive will erase all data on it. Back up any important files before proceeding.

Windows:

Connect the USB drive to your computer.
Open File Explorer.
Right-click on the USB drive and select “Format.”
In the “File system” dropdown menu, choose either “exFAT” or “NTFS” (FAT32 is also available, but generally not recommended).
Give the drive a volume label (optional).
Click “Start” and wait for the process to complete.

macOS:

Connect the USB drive to your computer.
Open Disk Utility (Applications > Utilities).
Select the USB drive in the sidebar.
Click “Erase.”
Give the drive a name (optional).
In the “Format” dropdown menu, choose “ExFAT” or “MS-DOS (FAT)” for FAT32 (APFS and other macOS-specific formats will not work on the PS5).
Click “Erase” and wait for the process to complete.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I install PS5 games directly on an external USB drive?

No. The PS5 does not allow direct installation of PS5 games onto external USB drives. Sony requires the use of their proprietary internal SSD or officially licensed, high-speed external SSDs connected via the expansion slot for PS5 game installation.

2. Can I play PS5 games directly from an external USB drive?

No. Similar to installation, PS5 games cannot be played directly from an external USB drive. The data transfer rates of standard USB drives are insufficient to meet the performance demands of PS5 games.

3. Why can I store PS4 games on an external USB drive but not PS5 games?

The PS4’s system requirements are less demanding than the PS5’s. PS4 games can run adequately from the slower data transfer speeds of a USB drive, whereas PS5 games require the vastly faster speeds of an internal SSD or an officially supported external SSD.

4. What happens if I try to use a USB drive with an unsupported format on my PS5?

The PS5 will not recognize the drive. You’ll likely receive an error message indicating that the connected USB storage device’s file system is not supported.

5. What size external drive is recommended for use with the PS5?

The ideal size depends on your needs. However, since you can store PS4 games on it, a 1TB or 2TB drive provides ample space for a substantial library. The PS5 supports external drives up to 8TB.

6. Does the speed of the USB drive matter?

Yes. While the file system is the primary factor for compatibility, the speed of the USB drive significantly impacts performance. A USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 drive is highly recommended for faster data transfer speeds and a better overall experience, especially when playing PS4 games from the external drive.

7. Can I use a USB hub with my PS5?

Yes, you can use a USB hub, but it’s generally not recommended, especially for high-bandwidth devices like external hard drives. A hub can potentially bottleneck the data transfer rate, leading to performance issues. Connect the external drive directly to the PS5’s USB port for optimal performance.

8. Can I use a USB drive formatted for a PC on my PS5?

Yes, provided the drive is formatted with a compatible file system (exFAT or NTFS). Simply connect the drive to the PS5.

9. Will formatting a USB drive for PS5 use erase all my data?

Yes. Formatting a drive will erase all data on it. Always back up any important files before formatting.

10. How do I move PS4 games from the PS5’s internal storage to an external USB drive?

Go to Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps. Select the PS4 games you want to move and choose “Move to Extended Storage.”

11. Can I use the external drive to back up my PS5 game saves?

Yes, you can back up your PS5 and PS4 game saves to a USB drive. Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS5) or Saved Data (PS4). Choose “Upload/Download to Console Storage” or “USB Drive,” respectively, to manage your save data.

12. Does the PS5 support USB 2.0 drives?

Yes, the PS5 supports USB 2.0 drives, but they are not recommended for extended storage. The data transfer speeds of USB 2.0 are significantly slower than USB 3.0/3.1, leading to longer loading times and potential performance issues.

13. What are the USB port specifications on the PS5?

The PS5 has a combination of USB ports:

Front: 1 x USB Type-A (Hi-Speed USB) and 1 x USB Type-C (SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps)
Rear: 2 x USB Type-A (SuperSpeed USB 5Gbps)

14. Why is my external hard drive not being recognized by my PS5?

Several factors can cause this issue:

Incorrect File System: Ensure the drive is formatted with exFAT or NTFS.
Faulty USB Cable: Try using a different USB cable.
Drive Malfunction: The drive itself may be failing. Try connecting it to a computer to test its functionality.
Insufficient Power: Some external drives require external power. Ensure the drive is properly powered.

15. Can I use an external SSD (Solid State Drive) with the PS5?

Yes. While PS5 games must be installed on the internal SSD or an officially licensed external SSD via the expansion slot, you can use external SSDs connected via USB to store and play PS4 games. An external SSD will significantly improve loading times compared to a traditional HDD. Ensure it is USB 3.0 or higher for optimal performance.

What USB formats does PS5 read?