iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
You can play physical PlayStation games on a disc-free PS5 only if that console model supports Sony’s detachable Disc Drive. Sony lists the CFI-ZDD1 series drive for PS5 Digital Edition CFI-2000 and consoles in the CFI-7000 group; Sony’s setup instructions require an internet connection to pair the drive with the console. The older CFI-1000 PS5 Digital Edition does not support disc-based games or media. Check the model number before buying a drive.
Check whether your PS5 supports a disc drive
“PS5 Digital Edition” does not identify a single hardware configuration. Sony documents the CFI-ZDD1 series detachable drive for PS5 Digital Edition CFI-2000 and consoles in the CFI-7000 group. Sony says the CFI-1000 Digital Edition cannot play disc-based games or media. Check the model number on your console before choosing an accessory; the console name alone is not enough to confirm compatibility. Sony’s PS5 Disc Drive compatibility and setup guidance has the current model details.
Option 1: Add Sony’s detachable drive to a compatible console
If your console is in a supported model group, Sony’s detachable Disc Drive adds the ability to use supported PS5 and PS4 Blu-ray games, as well as disc movies. It is a separate accessory, so check regional availability and the exact product terms before purchasing. Pairing the drive and console during setup requires an internet connection, according to Sony’s installation instructions.
- Identify the console model. Confirm that it is a PS5 Digital Edition CFI-2000 or a console in the CFI-7000 group.
- Confirm the accessory listing. Check that the CFI-ZDD1 series drive is available and specified for your model in your region.
- Install and pair it. Follow Sony’s instructions and connect the console to the internet when pairing is required.
- Use supported discs. Sony lists PS5 games and supported PS4 titles on Blu-ray among the drive’s uses; disc playback depends on the supported format and title.
Option 2: Use digital games instead
On a console that cannot take the detachable drive, a physical disc cannot provide access to its game. You can play digital games associated with your account or obtain a digital copy through PlayStation Store, if one is available. Sony describes the Digital Edition as a console for downloading digital games. A digital purchase is a separate license from a physical disc, and availability and price vary by title and region. See PlayStation Canada’s PS5 overview and Sony’s PS4-to-PS5 upgrade information.
#1 Best Overall
- From Jan. 2028, newly released games on PlayStation will be available for purchase on PlayStation Store and at retailers in digital format only. Discs for games released before Jan. 2028 can continue to be played on this device.
- This product is only for PS5 Digital Edition consoles (CFI-2000 model group – slim) or PS5 Pro Consoles
- Drive will play 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, Blu-ray discs and DVDs
- Internet connection is required to pair Disc Drive and PS5 Digital Edition Console upon setup.
Option 3: Upgrade an eligible PS4 disc game on a disc-drive PS5
A PS4 disc cannot be used directly on a PS5 Digital Edition. For an eligible PS4 game, Sony offers a route to upgrade to its digital PS5 version, but Sony requires a PS5 with a disc drive for a disc-based upgrade. The upgrade process requires an internet connection, and the original PS4 disc must remain inserted whenever you play the upgraded game. Eligibility and offer terms vary by game. Check Sony’s title-specific upgrade guidance before relying on this option.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose the route that fits your console and game
| Option | Where it applies | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Add the detachable drive | PS5 Digital Edition CFI-2000 and consoles in the CFI-7000 group, as listed by Sony | Console model, CFI-ZDD1 series compatibility, regional availability, and internet pairing requirement |
| Play or buy a digital copy | Digital Edition consoles | That your account has the digital license or the game is currently offered digitally; title compatibility |
| Upgrade a PS4 disc game | Eligible PS4 titles on a PS5 with a disc drive | Game eligibility and offer terms; the original disc is needed for every play session |
If you have a CFI-1000 Digital Edition, Sony’s documented detachable-drive option does not add disc support to that model. Keep the disc for use in a compatible disc-drive console or look for a digital license. For a newer supported model, compare the accessory’s current regional availability and cost with the cost and availability of the digital game you want; the disc-based PS4 upgrade route is not a way to eliminate the disc requirement.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- Built-in 3TB Capacity USB 3.0 External Gaming Hard Drive (7200RPM Enterprise HDD, designed for 24/7)
- You can play PS4 games directly from USB extended storage, which lets you save space on your PS5 console storage for PS5 games. To play PS5 games, you need to copy game data from your USB extended storage drive back to your PS5 console's internal SSD storage. It’s much quicker to copy a PS5 game from USB extended storage than to re-download it.
- Compatible with PS5 Game Console, Expand game console storage instantly! NOTE: You cannot download PS5 games direct to USB Hard Drive, It has to download to internal SSD and then "Move/Copy" to USB HDD after that. (about 3 ~ 5 min transfer a game)
- PS5 Game has to play on internal SSD, you can "Move & Store" your PS5 Games from SSD to USB HDD when you're not play it. And it's always faster than re-download it online. That will free up your Internal SSD Space for more games.
- This external hard drive boasts a brand-new, premium HDD case paired with a excellent refurbished, top-tier internal 7200RPM enterprise hard drive from a leading manufacturer. With zero bad sectors and 100% health, it has passed rigorous factory quality tests to ensure exceptional performance and reliability. Fully researched and tested for outstanding performance and compatibility with PC & gaming consoles, it stands as the top choice in external gaming hard drives.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Recommended Free Tools
