The PS5 disc and digital versions hit the market in 2020 as a successor to PS4. The availability of two PS5 versions also allowed gamers to decide whether they wanted a disc-based or digital-only experience.
But the question is, can you download digital games on the PS5 disc version?
In this article, we’ll discuss this and compare the PS5 disc and digital version side-by-side to clarify any possible questions. Let’s get right into it!
Can You Download Games on PS5 Disc Version?
You can download games on the PS5 disc version. The console has an SSD storage of 1TB available for storing games. It is also backward compatible with PS4 games, so it is not limited to disc-only games.
If you prefer digital games, you can still insert a PS5 disc on your console and transfer the contents to its SSD. However, you’ll still need to keep the disc in the console.
The disc is required for the console to confirm the game license. The console needs a disc to perform a license check to determine if you own the rights to the game.
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How to Download Games on PS5 Disc Version
There are two ways you can download games on the PS5 disc version; both require your console to be connected to the internet:
Method 1. Using Your Console
Note: If you are downloading a disc game to your PS5 disc version, you must have a disc installed into the console.
Here are steps on how to download games on PS5 disc version using your console:
- Step 1. Insert a disc into the PS5.
Skip this step if you are downloading a digital game version. - Step 2. Go to “PlayStation Store”.
- Step 3. Select the game you want to download.
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Step 4. Click “Download”.
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Step 5. Find your downloaded game in the “Game Library”.
Method 2. From Your Phone
Important! Before downloading, ensure your PS5 is in rest mode and connected to the internet. Also, make sure your PS5 has enough storage space.
To turn rest mode on, open the contorl center by pressing the PS button, then select “Power > Enter Rest Mode“.
Below are steps to download games on PS5 disc version using your phone:
- Step 1. Install & open the “PlayStation App”. (Download it if you don’t have it yet)
- Step 2. Sign in with your PS5 username and account.
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Step 3. Choose “Games Library > Games > Purchased”.
- Step 4. Tap on a game you want to download.
- Step 5. Tap on “Select Edition”.
- Step 6. Select your “Linked Console”.
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Step 7. Tap “Download to Console”.
Read more about How to Find and Download Games Purchased from the Playstation Store.
Why Can’t You Download Disc Games on PS5?
If you can’t download games on your PS5 is probably because of the lack of storage space in your console or some incompatibility. The “Can’t Install” error often appears if your console lacks enough SSD storage. Some games are also incompatible with the PS5 disc version, making them impossible to download.
Here is a list of things that you can do if you can’t download games on PS5:
- Clear Space.
Check if you have enough storage on your console. If not, you can delete games and media. Or, create more storage by adding an eternal SSD or hard drive. - Check the PSN Status Page.
Confirm if the systems are down from the PSN Service Status page. If there are any alerts, wait until the system is back on. - Pause Additional Download.
It is best to pause any background downloads in the console. This allows your PS5 to focus on the game you want to install instead of working on multiple downloads. - Install the Latest Update. Ensure your console is running on the latest system software. Go to “Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings” to install available software updates. (Learn more)
- Confirm Your PSN Account.
Signing in to the wrong account can hinder you from downloading a game. Use the same account utilized when purchasing the game. - Restart the Console.
A reboot can help fix any issues. After restarting, try to resume the download to see if the problem cleared.
You can read more about how to troubleshoot game downloads from the PlayStation Store.
What Is the Difference Between Digital and Disc PS5?
The PS5 disc and digital version have the same functionalities, graphics, and SSD capacity. However, there are three primary differences between the two consoles.
- Price.
The PS5 disc version retails in the US at $499.99, while PS5 digital is available at $399.99. The digital edition is cheaper to manufacture because of licensing, thus the $100 difference. - Disc Player.
The PS5 disc version has a Blu-ray disc drive, while the digital edition does not. Since you can’t use physical disc copies, your disc-less console relies on an internet connection to install and play games. - Design.
The PS5 digital edition is slimmer and more symmetrical than the disc version. There is a bulge or, instead, a curve at the bottom of the disc console, accommodating the disc port.
Looking for digital games to download? Here are some PS5 games that support ray tracing for an even better gaming experience!
Which PS5 Is Better: Digital or Disc?
The PS5 disc version is better than the digital edition because you can play former PS4 disc games. This is because of backward compatibility, which makes the PS4 physical disc games work on PS5. Also, the disc port lets you enjoy 4k Blu-ray disc viewing, which is better than modern streaming services.
Consider the disc version if you have physical copies of games or are a collector of physical media like Blu-ray discs.
Remember, it will also allow you to enjoy games at a discounted price. You can also download digital games on the PS5 disc version, so you don’t have to worry about game compatibility issues.
The PS5 digital edition is better suited for anyone who doesn’t mind downloading their games. If you prefer a digital catalog, this is your best option.
Conclusion
It is possible to download and enjoy games on the PS5 disc version. The PlayStation store works the same way for the standard and digital edition consoles.
All you require is a Sony PlayStation account and an active internet connection. You can even pre-order or add unreleased games to your wishlist.
If your PS5 disc console fails to download a game, consider deleting a game or media to clear up some space. Also, opt to download one game at a time to ensure a smooth download.
