Can you use a USB stick on a PS5?
External USB drives for the PS5, ranked by value on Amazon.co.uk
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Yes, for some jobs. Any USB stick can be used to copy saved data for PS4 games, screenshots and video clips, and to play media files. To hold games as extended storage it must be at least 250GB and SuperSpeed USB, which rules out most sticks. A portable SSD is the better tool for games.
USB storage rules as published in Sony's extended storage support page. Prices from Amazon.co.uk.
What a USB stick can do on a PS5
| Task | Works? | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Copy screenshots and video clips | Yes | Any USB drive |
| Play video and music files | Yes | Any USB drive |
| Store PS5 games / play PS4 games | Only if large and fast | 250GB or more, SuperSpeed USB 5Gbps or later |
| Play PS5 games from it | No | Not possible on any USB drive |
Game storage limits from Sony's extended storage requirements.
Why a portable SSD is better for games
Flash sticks of 250GB and up exist, but they are slow at sustained writing and cost about as much as a small portable SSD, which copies games far faster. See external SSDs for the PS5.
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Related comparisons and guides
See also External SSDs, External HDD vs SSD, Play from an external drive?, External drive not recognised.
Other places to go from here: External drive for PS5, Internal vs external, 2TB, How to move games.
Frequently asked questions
Can I install PS5 games on a USB stick?
You can store them on one that is 250GB or larger and SuperSpeed, but not play them from it.
What format does a USB stick need for PS5 media?
exFAT or FAT32 for media and copying files. Extended storage is formatted by the console.
Can I back up PS5 saves to a USB stick?
PS4 game saves can be copied to USB. PS5 game saves are backed up through cloud storage with PlayStation Plus.
Which USB port should I use?
For extended storage, a SuperSpeed port: USB-C on the front or USB-A on the rear.
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Last updated: 2026-10-21 06:04:07 UTC. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date indicated on Amazon.co.uk and are subject to change. Any price displayed at the time of purchase will apply. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON SERVICES LLC. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED AS IS AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.