how long does data transfer from ps4 to ps5 take

Charlotte

3 min read

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02-02-2025

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Transferring your game saves, screenshots, and other data from your PlayStation 4 to your shiny new PlayStation 5 is a straightforward process. But how long does it actually take? The answer, unfortunately, isn't a simple number. The transfer time depends on several factors, and this guide will break them all down for you. We'll also cover different methods to help you choose the best one for your situation.

Factors Affecting PS4 to PS5 Transfer Speed

Several factors influence how long your data transfer takes:

• The Amount of Data: This is the most significant factor. If you have a massive library of games and saved data, expect a longer transfer time compared to someone with only a few games. Think gigabytes – the more gigabytes, the more time.

• Network Speed: If you're using a wired connection (Ethernet), the transfer will generally be much faster than using Wi-Fi. A fast, stable internet connection is vital for a speedy transfer, especially if you're using the online method.

• Hard Drive Speed: The speed of your PS4's hard drive will also play a role. If you upgraded your PS4 to an SSD, the transfer will be noticeably faster than using a standard hard drive. The PS5's internal storage speed also matters, even if to a lesser extent.

• Method of Transfer: There are two primary methods: wired LAN connection and transferring via the cloud. Wired LAN connection is consistently faster. Cloud transfer depends on your upload and download speeds and the size of your data.

How to Transfer Data: Wired LAN Connection (Fastest)

This method is generally the fastest and recommended for most users. Here's how to do it:

1. Connect both consoles: Make sure both your PS4 and PS5 are connected to the same network using an Ethernet cable. Wi-Fi is possible, but wired is preferred for speed and stability.

2. Start the transfer: On your PS5, select the option to transfer data from a PS4. Follow the on-screen prompts. Your PS5 will find your PS4 on the network.

3. Select data to transfer: Choose which data you want to transfer. You can choose to transfer everything or select specific items.

4. Wait for completion: The transfer process will start. This is where the time varies depending on the factors mentioned above. It could take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

How to Transfer Data: Using Cloud Storage (Slower, but Convenient)

This method is slower than a wired transfer but offers convenience if you have a lot of data and don't want to deal with cables.

1. Back up your PS4 data: On your PS4, back up your saved data to PlayStation Plus Cloud Storage or an external drive. This can take a while itself, especially for large amounts of data.

2. Download data on PS5: On your PS5, sign in with your PlayStation Network account. Then, download your saved data from the cloud. Again, download times depend heavily on your internet upload and download speeds.

Which method is best? For large amounts of data, a wired connection is almost always superior in terms of speed. Cloud storage is most convenient if you have limited time or if transferring through a network isn’t feasible.

Estimated Transfer Times

While precise times are impossible to give without knowing your specific setup, here’s a rough estimate:

• Small Data Set (Few games, small saves): 15-60 minutes (wired), several hours (cloud)

• Medium Data Set (Multiple games, larger saves): 1-4 hours (wired), 6+ hours (cloud)

• Large Data Set (Extensive game library, many saves): 4+ hours (wired), 12+ hours (cloud)

These are just estimates. Always be patient, as interruptions can slow the process down further.

Troubleshooting Slow Transfers

If your transfer is unusually slow, consider these troubleshooting steps:

• Check your network connection: Ensure both consoles have a strong, stable connection.

• Restart both consoles: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches.

• Use a wired connection: If using Wi-Fi, switch to a wired Ethernet connection.

• Check for background processes: Make sure no other applications are consuming bandwidth on either console.

Transferring data from PS4 to PS5 is a crucial step for many users. Understanding the factors that affect transfer speed will help manage your expectations and choose the best method for your specific situation. Remember to back up your data regularly to avoid any potential loss.