Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesPS5 games need to be installed because the console must have their game data on supported storage to run them. A disc game installs data from the disc the first time you play and requires the disc to remain inserted; a digital game downloads and then installs. A separate game update may add another wait, and some titles let you play part of the game before the rest is ready.
Why a PS5 game has to install
Installing puts the game data the PS5 needs onto storage it can run from. Buying a disc does not bypass installation: the console installs the game automatically the first time you play. A digital purchase has to be downloaded before it installs. The exact amount of data and time varies by game; Sony’s support instructions do not establish a typical install size or duration.
What happens with a disc game
- Insert the game disc. The PS5 installs the game automatically the first time it is played.
- When installation finishes, select the game from Games home.
- Keep the disc inserted whenever you play; the installed data does not remove this requirement.
Some games come on two discs. Insert the data disc first, then swap to the play disc when prompted. Leave the play disc inserted to play. See PlayStation’s disc-game installation instructions.
What happens with a digital game
- From Games home, open Game Library, then Your Collection.
- Select the game and choose Download.
- The PS5 downloads the game and installs it automatically.
For some games, the console may offer a portion to copy and play while the rest is still downloading. Whether that is available depends on the title. Sony’s game download instructions explain how to download purchases.
#1 Best Overall
- Officially licensed M.2 SSD for PlayStation 5 consoles[4] so you can easily install and play with no concern of compatibility. [4]For PlayStation 5 system software compatibility, please visit the official WD_BLACK site.
- With capacities ranging from 1TB to 8TB[1], your PS5 console has the additional space to store up to 200 games[3] (8TB model) [1]1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = one trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment. [3] Number of games based on a 36GB average per game. The number of games will vary based on file size, formatting, other programs, and factors.
- Experience uninterrupted gameplay with a brand-new, optimized heatsink designed especially for the PS5 console for an easy, worry-free installation into the M.2 slot.
- Play directly from the drive and eliminate the need to transfer or delete games from your console with tested and approved storage for your PS5 console[4].
- Push the envelope of PCIe Gen 4 technology with read speeds up to 7,300MB/s[2], giving you seamless gameplay and incredibly short load times. [2]1 MB/s = 1 million bytes per second. Based on internal testing; performance may vary depending upon host device, usage conditions, drive capacity, and other factors.
Why an update can make you wait again
An update is separate from the initial installation or download. PlayStation says a game or app updates to the newest version available when started, so the console may need to install an update before you can play. To prepare updates during rest mode, keep the PS5 connected to the internet and enable the relevant automatic-update settings. Sony’s current instructions place them under Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Automatic Updates; menu wording can change with system software.
If you want to leave a suspended game open, Sony advises enabling Auto-Download only; you can choose to install the update after resuming the game. For the full setup, see PlayStation’s automatic download and update guide and its instructions for checking game and system updates.
Rank #2
- 【Officially Licensed SSD 】This external SSD uses specially-selected materials and has passed our exclusive quality inspection to work with PS5 / PS4.
- 【Eliminate PS5(R) Storage Shortages】You can expand the free space on your system by saving PS5(R) game data and PS4(R) game titles onto this product.
- 【Reduce Loading Times on PS4(R)】 Reduce game loading times for more enjoyable gameplay experiences.
- 【Compact Stick Type】The cable-free and compact USB stick design enables easy connection with your game console without taking up space.
- 【Accessories】 Setup Guide / Warranty Statement
Where PS5 games can be stored—and where they can be played
PS5 game data can be kept on the console’s built-in storage, a compatible M.2 SSD, or USB extended storage. The important distinction is that a PS5 game stored on USB extended storage must be moved back to console storage or M.2 SSD storage before you can play it. A compatible M.2 SSD is an optional expansion, not a requirement for installing a new game.
If storage is full, delete games or applications you no longer need, or move game data to another supported storage location. Deleted games and apps can be downloaded again from your library, so deleting an installed copy does not erase a digital purchase. Check PlayStation’s PS5 storage guide for the available options and M.2 SSD requirements.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- BEST VALUE SSD – Compact and reliable SSD to meet your on-the-go demand. Compatible with PS4/PS5, Macs, and PCs. Save space and loading time on your console by storing your game data on Buffalo SSDs.
- IDEAL ON-THE-GO ACCESSORY - Quickly copy your large data. If you are a professional in need of fast and secure storage, the Buffalo SSD is ready for on-the-go backup for photos, videos, docs, and more.
- FAST SPEEDS AND MULTI-TASKING - Faster speed than HDD enables you to connect the device to PC and do large intensive tasks simultaneously.
- COMPACT, DURABLE, & RELIABLE – Shock-resistant, rugged design provides drop protection. Compact form factor to carry your data in your pocket. No matter if it’s for work or fun, you can easily use your Buffalo SSD on-the-go.
- USB 3.2 CONNECTIVITY & 3-YEAR WARRANTY – Supports USB-C / USB-A. Easily connect the Buffalo SSD to your PC and other mobile devices. THREE-YEAR WARRANTY for registered devices (two years if unregistered).
Which wait are you seeing?
| What you see | What is happening | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| First launch from a disc | The PS5 is installing game data from the disc. | Let installation finish; keep the disc inserted to play. |
| A download progress indicator for a digital purchase | The PS5 is downloading the game before or as it installs. | Wait for the game to become ready; a partial-play option may appear for some titles. |
| An update prompt or update progress | The game or app is updating separately from its initial install. | Let the update finish, or configure automatic updates for rest mode. |
| A message about insufficient space | The console needs room for game data or an update. | Free space, move data, or consider a compatible M.2 SSD; games on USB extended storage must be moved back before play. |
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