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You generally can’t copy an individual PS5 game save to an external hard drive as a standalone file. For a single PS5 save, use PlayStation Plus cloud storage to sync it between consoles. A USB drive can store individual PS4 saves copied from a PS5, or a backup of the entire PS5 console that includes saved data—but restoring that backup erases the console’s current data.
Which transfer method works for your save?
| What you want to transfer | Supported method | Destination | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| One PS5 game save | Upload or sync through PlayStation Plus cloud storage | Cloud storage, then download on the destination PS5 | Sony’s storage guide lists cloud storage for PS5 saves, not individual USB copies. PlayStation storage guide |
| One PS4 game save managed on a PS5 | Copy the save to or from USB | USB drive | Use the PS4 saved-data controls in Settings. PlayStation USB save instructions |
| Saved data as part of a full PS5 backup | Back up selected console data | FAT32- or exFAT-formatted USB drive | This is a system backup, not a separate save file. Restoring it erases data currently on the console. PlayStation backup instructions |
Transfer an individual PS5 save using cloud storage
To move a PS5 save to another PS5, upload or sync it to PlayStation Plus cloud storage, then download it on the destination console. The consoles must use the same PlayStation account for the save to be available to that account.
- On the source PS5, open Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings.
- Open the PS5 saved-data controls and check that the game’s save has finished syncing or uploading to cloud storage before switching consoles. Sony provides automatic-sync settings in this area; the available controls differ for PS5 and PS4 saves. PlayStation Plus cloud storage instructions
- On the destination PS5, sign in with the same PlayStation account and use the PS5 saved-data controls to download the save from cloud storage.
PlayStation Support says members can store up to 100 GB of PS5 saved data and up to 100 GB of PS4 saved data. The support page does not state a publication date for those limits. PlayStation Plus cloud storage
Copy a PS4 save from a PS5 to USB
PS4 saved data can be copied individually between a PS5’s console storage and a USB drive. Connect the drive, then follow these steps:
#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.
- Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4).
- Choose Upload or Delete from Console Storage > Copy to USB Drive.
- Select the game and the save files you want, then choose Copy.
To copy a PS4 save back from USB, open the same Saved Data (PS4) settings, choose Copy or Delete from USB Drive, select the game and files, then copy them to console storage. PlayStation USB save instructions
Back up the PS5 console, including saved data, to USB
If you need a USB copy of PS5 saved data, Sony supports backing up selected PS5 console data to a USB drive. This stores saved data as part of a console backup; it does not create an ordinary file you can browse or restore as one game’s save.
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 a USB drive formatted as FAT32 or exFAT. Sony notes that not all USB devices work.
- On the PS5, open Settings > System > System Software > Back Up and Restore > Back Up Your PS5.
- Select the data categories to include and start the backup.
- Leave the console powered on until the backup finishes.
A USB drive formatted as PS5 USB extended storage for games uses a different format and cannot be used for PS5 backup data. Sony also says the backup is tied to the PlayStation account; to restore it on another console, sign in with the same account. PlayStation backup instructions
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Understand the risk before restoring a backup
Restoring a PS5 system backup erases all data currently on the console. It is therefore not a safe way to import only one save onto a console that contains data you want to keep. Sony warns not to turn off the console during backup or restore. PlayStation backup instructions
Quick Recap
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.
What to use
- One PS5 save, same or replacement console: PlayStation Plus cloud storage.
- One PS4 save on a PS5: Copy it to USB from the PS4 saved-data menu.
- A broader safeguard for console data: Create a full PS5 USB backup, keeping in mind that restoration replaces the console’s current data.
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