How to Transfer PS4 Games and Save Data to a PlayStation 5

Upgrading from a PlayStation 4 to a PlayStation 5 is exciting—faster loading times, better visuals, and smoother gameplay. But for many users, transferring games and save data from PS4 to PS5 becomes a major headache. Hours of progress, unlocked trophies, and downloaded content seem to hang in the balance.

In this guide, we’ll explore why the data transfer process can be confusing, how it impacts players, and most importantly—the most reliable ways to move your PS4 games and saves to your new PS5, based on expert advice and real user experiences.

---

Why Transferring PS4 Data to PS5 Matters

For gamers, every save file represents time, skill, and achievement. Failing to move your game data to your new PS5 means:

• Replaying dozens or even hundreds of hours of gameplay

• Losing custom settings and DLC progress

• Missing out on seamless upgrades to PS5-enhanced versions of titles like Spider-Man: Miles Morales or Ghost of Tsushima

This is especially painful for players who preordered or purchased digital games—they expect a plug-and-play experience when switching to a new console.

---

Common Issues Gamers Face During Data Transfer

Despite Sony’s promises of a smooth transition, many users have reported:

• Slow transfer speeds over Wi-Fi

• Unrecognized save files after redownloading games

• PS Plus cloud data not syncing correctly

• Data corruption during transfer

• Not knowing which method to use among the multiple available

Reddit and support forums are full of stories where players thought they lost their save progress or had to reinstall large games like Warzone or Red Dead Redemption 2 multiple times.

---

Why These Transfer Problems Happen

1. Network Instability
   Wireless data transfers can fail or take hours if your connection is weak or inconsistent.

2. PS Plus Cloud Confusion
   Some users assume all save data is automatically backed up to the cloud, even if they don’t have PlayStation Plus.

3. Different User Accounts
   Data can only be accessed if the same PlayStation Network (PSN) account is used on both consoles.

4. Mismatched Game Versions
   If you download the PS5 version of a game, but your save is from the PS4 version, it may not load without migration tools.

5. User Error or Misunderstanding
   Many players simply don’t know the step-by-step process or choose the wrong method.

---

3 Proven Ways to Transfer PS4 Games and Save Data to PS5

Below are the most effective methods, tested by Sony and widely used by gamers:

---

✅ 1. Data Transfer Over Wi-Fi or LAN (Best for Full System Migration)

Steps:

1. Power on both PS4 and PS5 and connect them to the same Wi-Fi or via an Ethernet cable for faster results.

2. On your PS5, go to Settings > System > System Software > Data Transfer.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to start the transfer.

4. Select the games and data you want to move.

5. Your PS5 will restart once complete.

Why users love this:
It copies everything, including installed games, saved data, and settings in one go. Reddit users recommend connecting both consoles with Ethernet for the fastest speed.

---

✅ 2. Transfer Save Data via PlayStation Plus Cloud Storage

For PS Plus members only

Steps:

1. On your PS4, go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Upload to Online Storage.

2. Choose the game saves you want to upload.

3. On your PS5, go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > Cloud Storage.

4. Download your saves to the PS5.

Why it works:
No cables needed, and you can transfer saves even if you no longer have your PS4 physically available.

Common pitfall:
Many players assume saves are auto-uploaded. Make sure to manually upload before switching consoles.

---

✅ 3. Use an External USB Storage Device

Steps:

1. Connect a USB drive to your PS4.

2. Go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Copy to USB Storage Device.

3. Transfer the drive to your PS5.

4. Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > USB Drive, and copy to console storage.

Extra tip:
This is a great method if you don’t have a PS Plus subscription. It also works well for players with poor internet.

---

Bonus Tip: Redownload Purchased Games from Your PS5 Library

You don’t need to repurchase digital games. Just log in to the same PSN account and:

1. Go to Game Library > Your Collection on PS5.

2. Select your purchased PS4 games and redownload them.

If you use physical discs, just insert the disc into your PS5 (disc edition only) and install.

---

Things to Keep in Mind

• Some PS5 versions of games don’t support PS4 saves without a built-in migration tool. (e.g., Control: Ultimate Edition requires in-game cloud sync).

• Always update your PS5 system software before transferring.

• If you have a large library, transfers may take several hours.

---

Final Thoughts

Transferring your PS4 games and save data to a PS5 doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. Whether you prefer a fast Ethernet transfer, cloud sync via PS Plus, or just using a USB drive, there’s a solution that fits your setup.

Don’t lose your progress. Don’t start over. Follow the method that works best for you, and jump back into your favorite games—right where you left off.