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How to back up save data on PS5 – three simple methods

Easy step-by-step guide
Last Updated on March 18, 2024
Secure your game progress with our guide on how to back up save data on PS5, ensuring your achievements and gameplay are safely stored.
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Learning how to back up and save data on PS5 is an essential skill for any gamer looking to safeguard their progress. This article is your go-to guide for understanding the process of backing up game save data on Sony’s PlayStation 5.

The process of backing up existing data on the PS5 can be done in a few simple steps and doesn’t require any specialized technical knowledge. Before we get into the step-by-step guide, it’s important to note that there are different methods for data backup, including using cloud storage for PlayStation Plus subscriptions and external storage devices for others.

If you’re keen to find out more on similar topics, check out our how to add friends on PS5 or our how to transfer PS4 data to a PS5.


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Step-by-step guide – How to back up save data on PS5

1

Backup game data on PS5 to Cloud

Step

1

Open Settings

On your PS5, go to the main menu and navigate to Settings menu.

This is where you access all system settings, including data management options.

Step

2

Access saved data settings

In Settings, find and select ‘Saved Data and Game/App Settings’.

This section contains all options related to game files and application settings.

PS5 settings menu for managing saved data and application settings with options for uploading or deleting from console storage, downloading from cloud storage, and syncing saved data.
The Sony PlayStation 5 ‘Saved Data and Game / App Settings’ screen © BGFG

Step

3

Choose saved data for PS5

Select ‘Saved Data (PS5)’ to focus on PS5 game data.

This will show you the game data specific to PS5 titles.

Step

4

Select console storage

This will display the game data saved on your PS5’s internal storage.

You can view and manage game data stored on the console.

Step

5

Choose games to back up

Select the specific games you want to back up, or use ‘Select All’ for a complete backup.

Choosing specific games can save cloud storage space, but backing up all games ensures all data is secured.

2

Backup PS5 game data to an external hard drive

Step

1

Connect external hard drive

Attach a compatible USB drive or external hard drive to your PS5.

Ensure the storage device has enough space for your backup data.

Step

2

Navigate to back up settings

Go to Settings > System > System Software > Back Up and Restore > Back Up Your PS5.

This section is dedicated to backing up and restoring your PS5 system data.

Step

3

Select data to back up

Choose the types of data you want to include in the backup.

You can select game data, app data, settings, etc., according to your preference.

Step

4

Start the backup process

Review the backup file size and add a description if desired. Select “Back Up” to start.

The console may restart several times during the backup. Be patient and do not unplug your PS5 or the external drive.

3

Backup PS5 game data via Backup Software (using EaseUS Todo Backup)

Step

1

Open EaseUS Todo Backup

Launch the software and choose ‘Create Backup’ on the home page, then click ‘Select Backup contents’.

EaseUS Todo Backup is a third-party software that provides versatile backup options.

Step

2

Select Disk for backup

Click on ‘Disk’ to start the backup process.

You can choose to back up an entire disk or a specific partition of your PS5’s system storage.

Step

3

Choose backup options

Decide whether to back up the entire disk or a specific partition, then click “OK”.

Customizing your backup can help manage storage space and focus on essential data.

Step

4

Select backup destination

Choose a destination for your backup, like a local drive, external drive, or NAS.

Consider the size and security of the backup location.

Step

5

Complete the backup

Click ‘Backup Now’. After completion, you can manage the backup as needed.

This option allows for recovery and incremental backups, providing robust data protection.

Can I use a USB for storage on PS5?

Yes, you can use a USB drive for storage on the PS5. The PS5 allows you to store or back up game data and save files on external USB drives. However, it’s important to use a USB drive that meets the PS5’s requirements, such as having sufficient storage capacity and speed.

Can you transfer saves to PS5 from USB?

You can transfer saved files to your PS5 from a USB drive. This is a useful feature for those who have saved game data on an external USB drive and want to continue their progress on the PS5. To transfer saves, you simply connect the USB drive with the saved files to your PS5 and use the console’s data management tools to move the uploads to the PS5’s internal storage.

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