Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
The quickest way to free space on a PS5 is to open Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps, then delete unused games, add-ons, or optional content. Deleting a purchased game does not normally remove your ownership: digital titles can be downloaded again from your Game Library, subject to account access, licensing, regional availability, and continued service support.
If you want to keep a game without playing it now, move it to USB extended storage. Remember the crucial limitation: PS5 games stored on a USB extended-storage drive must be copied back to Console Storage or an installed M.2 SSD before you can play them. For additional storage that can launch PS5 games directly, install a compatible internal M.2 NVMe SSD.
Check what is using your PS5 storage
From the PS5 home screen, go to Settings > Storage. The Storage screen shows the space available in Console Storage and separates content into categories such as games and apps, media, and saved data. Sony’s menu labels can change slightly with system software, region, or console model; its current storage-management instructions are available on the official PS5 storage support page.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →The advertised capacity of a PS5 is not the same as the space available for games. The operating system and system-reserved data use part of the built-in SSD, and the available figure can vary by model and system software. Use the Storage screen on your own console rather than relying on a universal “usable space” number.
#1 Best Overall
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Free up space without buying anything
Delete games and apps
- Open Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps.
- Select the game or app you want to remove.
- Select Delete.
Deleting an installation does not normally delete a digital purchase from your account. You can find a purchased title in Game Library and download it again later. Reinstallation may require a download, while a disc-based game still requires its disc to install and play.
Before deleting, confirm the title and user profile. Installed games and saved data are separate storage categories, but you should still check that important progress is protected before making changes.
Remove optional game content with Customize
Some games display a Customize option beside their title in the Games and Apps list. Use it to remove title-dependent content such as unused add-ons, language packs, completed campaign components, or other removable parts. The available choices differ by game, so Customize will not appear for every title and does not guarantee that every part of an installation can be removed.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsThis is often a better first step than deleting an entire game you may return to. Do not remove an add-on you still need unless you are prepared to download it again.
Clear screenshots and video clips
Large video clips and screenshots can accumulate in the Media category. Move captures to a regular USB drive or share them through the PlayStation App, then remove the local copies you no longer need. Capture files are separate from saved games and PlayStation Plus cloud storage, so deleting a clip does not back up or delete game progress.
Do not start with saved data
Save files are usually much smaller than modern game installations and captures, while deleting one can remove irreplaceable progress. Treat saved-data deletion as a final cleanup step, after games, optional content, and media have been reviewed.
Move games to USB extended storage
USB extended storage is best for archiving games that you want to keep but do not currently play. It frees Console Storage without permanently deleting the installation.
The important distinction is playability:
- PS5 games: can be stored on USB extended storage, but must be copied back to Console Storage or M.2 SSD storage before playing.
- PS4 games: can be played directly from USB extended storage.
A USB extended-storage drive is therefore not an expansion of directly playable PS5 storage. It is an archive and transfer drive for PS5 games, although it can serve as playable storage for PS4 titles.
USB extended-storage requirements
Sony lists these requirements for PS5 extended storage:
- SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps or later
- At least 250 GB capacity
- Up to 8 TB capacity
- Direct connection to the PS5 rather than a USB hub
Only one USB extended-storage drive can be used at a time, although multiple ordinary USB drives may be connected. Sony also cautions that meeting the listed requirements does not guarantee that every third-party device will work. See the official USB extended-storage requirements before buying.
A large external hard drive can provide inexpensive archive capacity. An external SSD may offer faster transfers and easier portability, but neither type can run PS5 games directly. For PS4 games, choose between HDD and SSD based on cost, transfer speed, noise, and portability.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Format a drive as USB extended storage
Formatting erases everything already on the drive. Back up important files first.
Rank #2
- Ultra-fast Data Transfers: Works with USB 3.0 technology, this USB hard drive is much faster than - but still compatible with - USB 2.0 backup drive, allowing for super fast transfer speed at up to 5 Gbps
- Ultra Slim and Sturdy Design: Merely 0.6 inch thick. Sturdy plastic anti-scratch model delivers remarkable strength,durability and reliability
- Multi- Compatibility: Microsoft Windows, Mac OS (10.6.5 and above), Linux, Android, Chromebook, PC, Laptop, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, TV and so on
- Plug and Play: The drive has been formatted. It's ready to use without software installation needed. You can save and backup any files, movies, music, photos, games and more
- Upgraded Version USB Cable: The drive with 2in1 Micro-USB 3.0 Cable, The multifunction USB cable can match different connect port and stabilize the transmission speed
- Connect the drive directly to a compatible PS5 USB port.
- Go to Settings > Storage.
- Select USB Extended Storage > Format as USB Extended Storage.
- If more than one drive is connected, choose Select Another USB Drive when necessary.
Do not disconnect the drive or switch off the PS5 while formatting.
Move a game to USB storage
- Open Game Library.
- Highlight the game or app.
- Press the controller’s Options button.
- Select Move Games and Apps.
- If both USB extended storage and an M.2 SSD are installed, open the relevant movable-items tab.
- Select the content and choose Move.
Copy a PS5 game back to playable storage
- Open Game Library > Installed.
- Find the game marked as being on USB extended storage.
- Highlight it and press Options.
- Select Copy to move it to Console Storage or M.2 SSD Storage.
Delete content from USB extended storage
- Go to Settings > Storage > USB Extended Storage > Games and Apps.
- Open the Delete Content tab.
- Select the data to remove.
- Select Delete.
Safely disconnect the drive
With the PS5 powered on, go to Settings > Storage > USB Extended Storage > Safely Remove from PS5, then disconnect it. Alternatively, wait until the console’s power indicator is completely off. Removing a drive improperly can cause data loss or corruption.
Add an internal M.2 SSD for playable PS5 expansion
An internal M.2 SSD is the better choice if you regularly play several large PS5 games and want them to remain downloadable, updatable, and playable without repeatedly copying them from an external archive. It can store, download, update, and launch PS5 and PS4 games and media apps.
Its main benefit is additional playable capacity, not a guaranteed loading-speed improvement over the PS5’s built-in SSD.
M.2 SSD compatibility checklist
Sony’s published requirements include:
- PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD
- Key M and Socket 3
- 250 GB to 8 TB capacity
- Recommended sequential read speed of 5,500 MB/s or faster
- Supported sizes: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, or 22110
- Maximum width of 25 mm
- Total thickness, including the heatsink, of up to 11.25 mm
- Effective heat dissipation using an integrated or add-on heatsink and heat-transfer material
M.2 SATA SSDs are not supported. Check the complete dimensions of the SSD and cooling structure, not just the bare drive. Sony says that satisfying the listed specifications does not guarantee that every third-party SSD will work. Sony also warns that the PS5 does not support Host Memory Buffer; SSDs that rely on HMB may perform more slowly than expected, so check manufacturer compatibility information. The complete requirements are on Sony’s M.2 SSD installation page.
Install an M.2 SSD safely
Use a well-lit table, a #1 Phillips or cross-head screwdriver, and sensible static-electricity precautions. The cover-removal procedure differs between PS5 model groups, including CFI-1000 and CFI-2000/7000 groups, so identify your model and follow the matching Sony instructions rather than applying one universal sequence.
Never power on or play on the PS5 with the cover removed. The SSD must be formatted the first time it is used in the console, and formatting erases existing data on the drive. Do not install it without the required heatsink or cooling structure.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Sony states that warranty coverage generally should not be affected when a correctly specified M.2 SSD is installed properly, but damage caused by improper installation may not be covered. Remove the M.2 SSD before sending the console for repair.
Move games to the M.2 SSD
- Open Game Library.
- Highlight a game or app and press Options.
- Select Move Games and Apps.
- Open Movable to M.2 SSD Storage if that option appears.
- Select the content and choose Move.
To choose the default location for new downloads, go to Settings > Storage > Installation Location and select the M.2 SSD. To manage its contents directly, open Settings > Storage > M.2 SSD Storage.
The entire M.2 SSD is formatted for PS5 use; it cannot be partly allocated for another purpose. A game cannot be split between Console Storage and M.2 SSD Storage—all data for that game must be in one location. An M.2 SSD can be moved to another PS5 after being safely removed, but you must sign in with the same account on the destination console.
Protect saved data before deleting anything
Use PlayStation Plus cloud storage
Cloud storage is for saved data, not installed games. A PlayStation Plus membership is required. Sony’s current limits are up to 100 GB of PS5 saved data and 100 GB of PS4 saved data; PS4 saved data is also limited to 1,000 files. Membership tiers, prices, benefits, and availability vary by country and can change, so check the current PlayStation Plus page for your region.
For automatic synchronization, first enable the internet connection needed in Rest Mode:
Rank #3
- Easily store and access 1TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive.Specific uses: Personal
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop. Reformatting may be required for Mac
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
- Go to Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode.
- Enable Stay Connected to the Internet.
- Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings.
- Select Saved Data (PS5) or Saved Data (PS4).
- For PS5 games, select Sync Saved Data > Auto-Sync Saved Data.
- For PS4 games, select Auto-Upload.
PS5 saved data synchronizes between the console and cloud to the most recent data. PS4 saves upload automatically but may need to be downloaded manually to the PS5.
Upload or download saves manually
To upload saves, open Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings, choose Saved Data (PS5) or Saved Data (PS4), select Upload or Delete from Console Storage > Upload to Cloud Storage, choose the saves, and select Upload.
To download saves, use the same Saved Data category, then select Download or Delete from Cloud Storage > Download to Console Storage. Select the save and choose Download. Be careful when replacing newer local data with an older cloud copy.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Back up PS5 data to a USB drive
A separate FAT32- or exFAT-formatted USB drive can back up games and apps, saved data, screenshots, video clips, and settings. It is not the same as a drive formatted as PS5 USB extended storage, and Sony says an extended-storage drive cannot be used in the same way for this console backup.
To create a backup:
- Connect a compatible USB drive.
- Go to Settings > System > System Software > Back Up and Restore > Back Up Your PS5.
- Select the data types.
- Select Next, then Back Up.
The PS5 restarts during the process. Do not turn it off or disconnect the drive. Trophies are not included. Games and apps stored on USB extended storage or an M.2 SSD are not included in the console backup. Restoring a backup erases current console data, and the restore requires system software that is the same version or newer than the version used to create the backup. Read Sony’s USB backup instructions before restoring anything.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Manage storage from the PlayStation App
The PlayStation App can be useful when you are away from the console, but it is not a complete remote file manager. Pair the app with your PS5 and configure the console for remote functions, including an internet connection and the appropriate Rest Mode settings.
To delete games remotely, open the app and select Settings > PS5 Storage. Select games from the list and delete them. The app can display Console Storage and connected USB extended-storage space, but it cannot move or copy games. If an M.2 SSD is the default installation location, the app can download games there. See Sony’s PlayStation App features guide for current availability and requirements.
Recommended Free Tools
Which storage option should you choose?
| Your situation | Best option | Why | Main drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| You need space immediately | Delete unused games, optional content, or captures | Fast and free | You may need to reinstall or redownload later |
| You want to archive PS5 games | USB extended storage | Convenient extra capacity | PS5 games must be copied back before play |
| You mostly play PS4 games | USB extended storage | PS4 games can run directly from it | It uses a USB port |
| You want more playable PS5 capacity | Compatible internal M.2 NVMe SSD | PS5 games can launch directly from it | Higher cost and physical installation |
| You want to protect progress | PlayStation Plus cloud storage | Convenient automatic synchronization | Requires membership and stores saves only |
| You need a standalone backup | FAT32/exFAT USB drive | Can include broad console data | Restoring can overwrite current data |
Troubleshooting PS5 storage problems
USB drive is not recognized
- Confirm that it supports SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps or later.
- Check that its capacity is between 250 GB and 8 TB.
- Connect it directly rather than through a hub.
- Try a compatible high-speed USB port.
- Make sure another USB extended-storage drive is not already being used.
- Back up important files before formatting.
Even a drive that meets Sony’s specifications is not guaranteed to work with every PS5.
A PS5 game will not launch from USB storage
This is expected. Copy the game from USB extended storage to Console Storage or M.2 SSD Storage through Game Library > Installed. Only PS4 games can be played directly from USB extended storage.
USB formatting will not start
Do not disconnect the drive or turn off the console. Confirm the direct connection, verify that essential data has been backed up, and remember that formatting erases the drive.
The M.2 SSD does not fit
Recheck the complete dimensions, including the heatsink. The width, length, and total thickness must meet Sony’s limits. If the expansion-slot cover will not close, the cooling structure may be too large.
Games have problems from the M.2 SSD
Check that the SSD is fully inserted and secured, and that the heatsink does not obstruct the cover or screw. Pause downloads while troubleshooting, and ensure that a disc-based game has finished installing. If the problem continues, move the game to Console Storage.
You deleted a save by mistake
A cloud copy or USB backup may help only if it was synchronized or created before deletion. Recovery is not guaranteed. Before restoring, check exactly what data will be replaced: Sony’s backup restore process can erase current console data.
Quick Recap
Quick storage checklist
- Open Settings > Storage and identify the largest category.
- Sync or back up important saved data before deleting anything.
- Use Customize to remove optional game content where available.
- Delete unused games and captures before deleting saves.
- Move inactive PS5 games to USB extended storage if you can wait to copy them back.
- Install a correctly sized, cooled M.2 NVMe SSD if you want more directly playable PS5 storage.
- Safely remove external drives before disconnecting them.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
