How to Transfer Game Save Data from PS4 to PS5

Introduction

If you’ve had a PS4 and you just upgraded to a PS5, you’ve probably got some games you aren’t done playing that you want to play on your new console but you don’t want to lose your progress. Thankfully, Sony gives you a few options for doing this. If you’re a PlayStation Plus member you’ve got the option to move your game save data to your PlayStation 5 by downloading your game saves from online storage. The option that anyone can use to transfer game save data from a PS4 to a PS5 is to use a USB drive. I’ll cover both of those options in this article. Examples of all instructions in the steps can be seen in the YouTube video below.

Steps to Transfer Game Save Data from PS4 to PS5 Using USB Drive

1. Connect a USB drive to your PS4 and then click the “Settings” icon in the menu on your PS4 home screen.
2. Click “Application Saved Data Management” in the Settings menu.
3. Select “Saved Data in System Storage.”
4. Choose “Copy to USB Storage Device.” A screen showing all of the games you currently have data stored on your console for is shown.
5. Click one of the games you want to transfer the data from your PS4 to your PS5 for. A screen with all of the data files for that game is shown. You can choose the individual files you want to move, but I’d recommend choosing “Select All” to select all of the data files for that game. Choose “Copy” after selecting your files. A screen is displayed showing the progress of transferring those files to your USB drive. After the transfer is complete you’ll return to the Saved Data in System Storage screen. Repeat this process for any other games you want to transfer to your USB drive.
6. Disconnect the USB drive from your PS4 and then connect it to your PS5. Click “Settings” on your PS5 home screen.
7. Click “Saved Data and Game App Settings” in the menu.
8. Select “Saved Data PS4” in the menu on the left and then choose “USB Drive” in the menu displayed on the right side of the screen.
9. Click “Copy to Console Storage.” The Copy to Console Storage screen is shown, displaying a list of all of the games with save data located on your connected USB drive. Choose the games where you want to copy their data to your PS5’s console storage, and then click “Copy.” A progress bar is displayed showing the progress of the copy. After the progress bar disappears the copy is complete, and you’ll be able to access the game data files on your PS5.

Steps to Transfer Game Save Data from PS4 to PS5 Using PlayStation Plus Online Storage

1. Click the “Settings” icon in the menu on your PS4 home screen.
2. Click “Application Saved Data Management” in the Settings menu.
3. Select “Saved Data in System Storage.”
4. Choose “Upload to Online Storage.” A screen showing all of the games you currently have data stored in your PlayStation Plus cloud storage for are displayed.
5. Click one of the games you want to transfer the data from your PS4 to your PS5 for. A screen with all of the data files for that game is shown. You can choose the individual files you want to move, but I’d recommend choosing “Select All” to select all of the data files for that game. Choose “Upload” after selecting your files. A screen is displayed showing the progress of transferring those files to your cloud storage. After the transfer is complete you’ll return to the Upload to Online Storage screen. Repeat this process for any other games you want to move.
6. Navigate to the home screen on your PS5 and then click “Settings” on your PS5 home screen.
7. Click “Saved Data and Game App Settings” in the menu.
8. Select “Saved Data PS4” in the menu on the left and then choose “Cloud Storage” in the menu displayed on the right side of the screen.
9. Choose “Download to Console Storage.” The Download to Console Storage screen is shown, displaying a list of all of the games with save data located on your PlayStation Plus cloud storage. Choose the games where you want to copy their data to your PS5’s console storage, and then click “Download.” A progress bar is displayed showing the progress of the download to your PS5’s console storage. After the progress bar disappears the download is complete, and you’ll be able to access the game data files on your PS5.

5 Reasons to Transfer Game Save Data from PS4 to PS5

1. Preserving Progress

Nobody likes to lose hard-earned progress. For games that require significant time investment, like RPGs or open-world adventures, starting over is a daunting prospect. Transferring your save data means you can pick up exactly where you left off, without the hassle of replaying parts you’ve already conquered. This continuity is vital for maintaining interest in longer games, ensuring you stay engaged and motivated to tackle new challenges that await in the enhanced capabilities of the PS5.

2. Exploiting Enhanced Graphics and Performance

The PS5 boasts substantial improvements in graphics and performance over the PS4. Transferring your save data allows you to experience your favorite PS4 games with upgraded visuals and smoother gameplay on the new console. Imagine revisiting a beloved game and seeing it in a whole new light, with faster load times and improved frame rates. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it also means more responsive gameplay, which can be crucial for timing-sensitive genres like fighting games or shooters.

3. Convenience and Ease of Transition

Transferring data is a straightforward process thanks to Sony’s data transfer and cloud storage solutions. This ease of transition removes the technological barriers that might discourage some from upgrading their console. It’s as simple as connecting both consoles to the same network or using a USB drive. This user-friendly approach encourages gamers to upgrade, knowing they won’t have to face cumbersome reconfigurations or manual reinstallation of their game libraries.

4. Cost Efficiency

By transferring save data, you can continue enjoying previously purchased downloadable content (DLC) and expansions without having to repurchase them for a new console. This makes the transition to PS5 more budget-friendly. You preserve not only your game progress but also your investment in games and their additional content. This is particularly important for games with substantial DLCs, which can significantly add to the base game experience.

5. Multiplayer and Community Continuity

Many gamers build online communities through cooperative or competitive multiplayer games. By transferring your save data, you ensure that your multiplayer achievements and status carry over. This continuity is crucial for maintaining your standing and relationships within these communities. Whether it’s keeping your gear in a loot-driven game like “Destiny” or maintaining your rank in a competitive league, data transfer helps preserve the social aspects of gaming that can be just as valuable as the game itself.