To transfer your PlayStation 4 (PS4) data to your PS5 repair, there are three approaches, including the high-speed Wi-Fi network transfer, the flexible cloud storage method (requiring PlayStation Plus), or the traditional approach using an external storage device.

This article meticulously outlines all three technical processes, explains exactly what data is transferred successfully, and clarifies common account-related questions, ensuring a smooth transition to your next-gen game console experience.

Table of Contents

Prepare for the Transfer Process

Before starting the transfer, make sure to update the system software on both consoles. Following proper game console maintenance tips will prevent transfer failures and compatibility issues.

Sign in to the same PlayStation Network account on both your source PS4 and destination PS5 console to maintain data integrity and account continuity.
Update the system software to the latest version on both consoles by navigating to Settings & System Software Update, as outdated firmware causes compatibility issues and transfer failures.
Synchronize your trophy information on the source PS4 console by opening Trophies, pressing the Options button, and selecting Sync with PlayStation Network to preserve your gaming achievements.
Connect both consoles to the same network using either Wi-Fi (preferably 5GHz for faster speeds) or a LAN cable for maximum stability and transfer speed.
Do not turn off either console or change network settings during the transfer process, as interruptions corrupt data and force you to restart the entire procedure from the beginning.

Transfer Your Data Over Your Wi-Fi Network

To transfer your data over Wi-Fi or using cloud storage, it’s essential to understand what’s cloud gaming and how it streams data efficiently from servers to your console, enabling fast and seamless access to your saved games., including 6 steps as below:

Connect Consoles: Ensure your PS4 and PS5 are connected to the same network, either wirelessly or via a LAN cable, establishing a stable link for the data pipeline.
Initiate on PS5: On your PS5, navigate to Settings & System & System Software & Data Transfer and select Continue.
Confirm PS4: Select the specific PS4 console you are transferring your data from when prompted on the PS5 screen.
Follow Prompts: When instructed, press and hold the Power button on the PS4 until you hear a beep to prepare the source console for the transfer.
Select Data: Choose the specific data, including game saves and settings, that you wish to migrate to your PS5.
Automatic Restart: The PS5 will automatically restart during the process, which is a normal step, and the remaining game data will continue transferring in the background afterward.

PS4 and PS5 connected over same Wi-Fi network for data transfer

Transfer Your Data Using Cloud Storage

To transfer your data using cloud storage, you should provide reliable access to your data from any PlayStation console with your registered account:

PS Plus Requirement: This method mandates an active PlayStation Plus subscription, which grants access to the essential online storage repository.
PS4 Upload: On the source PS4, you upload your critical saved data to the cloud by navigating to Settings & Application Data Management & Saved Data in System Storage & Upload to Online Storage.
PS5 Download: On the destination PS5, you retrieve the backed-up files via Settings & Saved Data and Game/App Settings & Saved Data (PS4) & Cloud Storage.
Data Selection: You maintain granular control, with the option to select and download either individual game files or choose to retrieve your entire collection in one efficient operation.

Uploading saved PS4 game data to PlayStation Plus cloud storage

Transfer Your Data Using an External Storage Device

To transfer your data using an external storage device, the process involves two 4 stages:

Secure Storage: You need a high-capacity external storage device, suchading a portable hard drive or a large USB flash drive, to accommodate potentially expansive game save files. This ensures your next-gen console is ready to handle your collection on the best game consoles available today.
PS4 Copy: On the PS4, insert the drive and copy the desired save files to the device by navigating to Settings & Application Saved Data Management & Copy to USB Storage Device.
PS5 Transfer: Remove the drive from the PS4, insert it into a USB port on the PS5, and access the data via Settings & Saved Data and Game/App Settings & Saved Data (PS4) & USB Drive.
Final Step: Select the data you need and choose Copy to Console Storage to complete the physical, offline migration of your valuable game data to the next-gen console.

Transferring PS4 data to PS5 via USB external drive

What Data Can I Transfer to My PS5 Console?

You can transfer your login passcodes, user accounts, saved game data, and console settings from your PS4. The system will not transfer any data or games already installed on your PS5. You will see thumbnails of transferred games appearing on your home screen during background completion.

Can I Transfer Data to a PS5 Console with a Child Account?

You cannot transfer data during the initial PS5 setup using a child account. You have two simple options:

Complete setup first with the child account, then transfer data later via the Settings menu.
Use an adult account for the initial setup, which allows you to transfer data from both adult and child accounts at that time.

Transferring your PS4 data to your PS5 is straightforward using three methods: Wi-Fi network transfer (fastest), Cloud Storage (requires PS Plus), or an external USB drive. Always update both consoles and sync your trophies first. The process moves your saved games and settings, but remember that child accounts need an adult to manage the transfer during initial setup.

Additionally, if you play on multiple platforms, consider how to game share on Xbox to maximize access to your library across devices.