Data Backup Digest

Unlike its current generation counterpart the Xbox One, it isn’t possible to expand the PS4’s storage with an external hard drive. As such, it means that you’ll have to open the console up and replace the internal drive if you want to kit out your gaming system with an increased amount of storage.

Don’t fear, however, because this guide is here to help you through the process. It isn’t actually that difficult either, meaning you’ll be well on your way to having increased capacity in no time.

Before we begin, you’ve got two decisions to make. The first is what type of drive you’re going to buy and the second is how much capacity it’s going to have.

To answer the first question, you can choose between a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a hybrid drive (SSHD) to give you the benefit of both. A HDD is the cheapest option and is made up of mechanical parts, thus offers the slowest speeds. A SSD on the other hand uses flash storage, meaning it can access your data quicker – but it’s far more expensive.

As for capacity, only you can know how much you’re going to need. It depends on how much data you download to your console and how much you expect to be using it in the future. The PS4 comes with 500GB as standard, so obviously you want a drive that offers more than that. If you want to be on the safe side, get the most you can afford.

Whatever you choose, your drive must be 2.5 inches, no thicker than 9.5mm and Serial ATA compatible. If it doesn’t match all of these requirements then it won’t work in your PS4. If you’re not sure, do a quick Google search for the name of your drive and ‘PS4’ to make sure.

Before switching out your PS4 drive, ensure you back up everything first. PlayStation Plus subscribers can do so by going to Settings > Application Save Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Upload to Online Storage. Then select everything and upload it to the cloud.

Those not on PlayStation Plus, or would prefer a more physical option, can use a USB drive instead. Follow the steps above, but switch the last step to Copy to USB Storage Device.

Now it’s time to turn off your PS4 completely and remove everything that’s plugged in. Now slide the top of the console off and remove the screw that is holding the drive in place. Put the screw in a safe place for later. Next, pull the HDD enclosure out. There are four screws around the enclosure that you’ll need to remove.

Take the HDD out of the PS4 and place the new one inside the enclosure. Now replace the four screws, slide the enclosure back within the system and put the first screw back in. Slide the top of the console back on – you’re nearly done!

You’ll need to reinstall the PS4 operating system, which can be done by following Sony’s instructions. Finally, it’s time to restore what you backed up. Sign in to your PSN account and navigate to Settings > Application Save Data Management and then select Saved Data In Online Storage or Saved Data on USB Storage, depending on what you chose earlier.

And that’s it! Your PS4 is now upgraded with more storage space, ready for you to kit it out with whatever you desire: more games, videos, photos, and more.