How Do I Expand Storage On The PS4?

By /

Expanding storage on a PS4 can be done in several ways: upgrading the internal hard drive, adding an external hard drive, or managing storage efficiently. Here’s a detailed guide for each method:

Upgrading the Internal Hard Drive

  1. Choose a Compatible Hard Drive:
    • The PS4 uses a 2.5-inch SATA HDD, similar to those used in laptops. Choose a drive with at least 5400 RPM for optimal performance.
    • Ensure the new drive is no more than 9.5mm in height.
  2. Back Up Your Data:
    • Use an external USB drive to back up your saved games, screenshots, and other data.
    • Go to [Settings] > [System] > [Back Up and Restore] > [Back Up PS4], and follow the on-screen instructions.
  3. Prepare the New Hard Drive:
    • Download the latest PS4 system software from the official PlayStation website.
    • Format a USB flash drive to FAT32, and create a folder named “PS4”. Inside this folder, create another folder named “UPDATE”.
    • Copy the downloaded system software file into the “UPDATE” folder and rename it to “PS4UPDATE.PUP”.
  4. Replace the Internal Hard Drive:
    • Turn off the PS4 and unplug all cables.
    • Slide off the hard drive cover (the shiny part) on the top left side.
    • Unscrew the single screw that holds the hard drive caddy in place.
    • Pull out the caddy and remove the four screws holding the hard drive.
    • Replace the old hard drive with the new one and reassemble everything.
  5. Install the System Software:
    • Plug the USB flash drive with the system software into the PS4.
    • Reconnect all cables and turn on the PS4 in Safe Mode by holding the power button for about 7 seconds until you hear a second beep.
    • Select [Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)] and follow the on-screen instructions.
  6. Restore Your Data:
    • Once the system software is installed, restore your backed-up data from the external USB drive.

Adding an External Hard Drive

  1. Choose a Compatible External Drive:
    • The external hard drive must be USB 3.0 and have a capacity between 250GB and 8TB.
  2. Connect the External Hard Drive:
    • Plug the external hard drive into one of the PS4’s USB ports.
  3. Format the External Hard Drive:
    • Go to [Settings] > [Devices] > [USB Storage Devices], select your external hard drive, and choose [Format as Extended Storage].
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the formatting process.
  4. Manage Storage:
    • Once formatted, you can set the external hard drive as the default location for installing new applications by going to [Settings] > [Storage] > [Extended Storage] and selecting [Application Install Location].

Managing Storage Efficiently

  1. Delete Unused Applications:
    • Go to [Settings] > [Storage] > [System Storage] > [Applications].
    • Select applications you no longer use and delete them.
  2. Move Applications to Extended Storage:
    • You can move installed applications from the internal storage to the external hard drive.
    • Go to [Settings] > [Storage] > [System Storage] > [Applications].
    • Press the Options button, select [Move to Extended Storage], and choose the applications you want to move.
  3. Use Cloud Storage for Saved Data:
    • If you have a PlayStation Plus subscription, you can upload saved game data to cloud storage.
    • Go to [Settings] > [Application Saved Data Management] > [Saved Data in System Storage] > [Upload to Online Storage].

By following these steps, you can effectively expand and manage storage on your PS4.

Scroll to Top