Just picked up a PlayStation 5 or PS5 Pro, or got one for Christmas? Congratulations – Sony’s white monolith has dominated this console generation thanks to technological improvements over the PS4 and a fantastic catalog of games.
Still, once you’ve got it out of the box, you might be wondering where to start. With five years of updates and a massive library to catch up on, we’ve put together this guide to help you go from powering it on to playing free games through PlayStation Plus and much more.
Here are the first things to do with your PS5 once you’ve got it out of the box.
Plug it in
It’s obvious, yes, but what might not be obvious is that the HDMI 2.1 cable in the box is recommended to unlock all the potential of your new PS5. With that in mind, we’d suggest completely swapping out whatever cable was there before (if there was one) to allow you to get the best quality visuals from the system.
While we’re talking plugging in, be sure to keep the ports around the top/front clear of any furniture to allow the fans to keep pushing air out without obstruction. We’d also recommend hardwiring your internet connection via Ethernet if possible.
It’s not always possible, but doing so does give you a more stable connection and usually improves the speed of downloads, too.
For context, my PS5 Pro is behind my TV with plenty of ventilation around it and an Ethernet connection to a mesh network node. It won’t always be possible to match ‘ideal conditions’, but doing the best you can at this early stage will get you off on the right foot.
Connect to the internet and update the system software
Another one that feels, admittedly, a bit obvious at first glance. Your PS5 has built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, but you’ll need to create a PlayStation Network account to access online features.
This doesn’t take too long, but on high-traffic days like, say, Christmas Day, server strain can be a real problem. With that in mind, if you’re buying a PS5 for a loved one, consider opening it up, downloading key updates and creating an account, and then wrapping it up.
Doing so skips the digital queues of waiting for server updates, and you can also rest safe in the knowledge that the recipient can get playing straight away.
Tweak your USB power settings
It’s not mandatory, but having your PS5 charge your DualSense controller while it’s not in use means less downtime or controller cables that can be awkwardly snagged.
In your PS5’s Settings, go to System, Power Saving, and then Features Available in Rest Mode. You can set your ‘Supply Power to USB Ports’ setting to charge anything plugged in for three hours or always, although this does use more power.
Transfer your saved games from a PS4
If you’ve got a PS4 with all of your saved games, you can move the data across via a network transfer feature.
With the two consoles connected to the same Wi-Fi network or via an Ethernet cable, you can select Settings, System, System Software, and then Data Transfer to begin the process.
If you don’t have your PS4 around, you can use the PS5 to download your saves that are in the cloud. Go to Settings, Saved Data, and you’ll be able to download data stored in the cloud.
Move your PS4 games across via an external hard drive
The network transfer feature can also be used for moving PS4 games to your PS5 to be played on the new console, but a faster way (particularly if you have an external hard drive) is to move your PS4 games to the drive.
This way, you can plug it into your PS5 and find your games there. There are some caveats, though.
PS4 games can be played off of internal or external storage, but given that PS5 SSD space is at a premium, you’re likely to shuffle games to the external drive if you’re happy having the drive in the back of your console.
PS5 games have to be played from the internal drive or an M.2 SSD because they require faster storage. Thankfully, we have a list of great SSD drive options for you.
Adjust your 3D Audio settings
A big part of the PS5’s original reveal was its new Tempest sound engine, and it’s still a great inclusion. Not only can it give a competitive advantage since you can hear an enemy’s footsteps, but the sound of raindrops in something like Assassin’s Creed: Shadows feels even more immersive.
To set it up for compatible headsets and TV speakers, open Settings and go to Sound, then 3D Audio. The walkthrough will help you get set up with the impressive tech, as well as let you create a personalized 3D audio profile for the best experience.
Use PlayStation App
Companion apps were pretty barebones in the last console generation, but the latest version of the PlayStation App on iOS and Android is great.
Not only can you use it to browse the store, respond to messages, and share your captures, but it’s also handy for managing downloads and even clearing your installed games remotely.
Got a gift card for PlayStation for Christmas? This is a much easier way to redeem it than using the on-screen keyboard.
Sign up for PlayStation Plus
PlayStation Plus is required to play online on your PlayStation 5, and it’s available in three different tiers.
The cheapest is Essential, which nets you a few free games per month, which crucially don’t leave your library if your subscription lapses. You also get Cloud Save functionality and some goodies for free-to-play games.
Next up is Extra, which gives you all of the same benefits but with the inclusion of the PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue. Here, you’ll find literally hundreds of games that you can play as long as you’re subscribed.
Finally, Premium is the top level and includes the option to stream games from the cloud (including many from the aforementioned Catalogue), Game Trials to check a game out before you buy, and a Classics Catalogue which includes games from prior PlayStation generations.
You can amend your plan at any time, but depending on your budget and needs, you may find the Essential, Extra, or Premium hit the sweet spot for you.
Sign in and claim your freebies
Whether you were lucky enough to get games bundled in with your new console or not, signing up to PlayStation Plus Essential will get you access to this month’s games.
While the lineup is usually three games, as a December treat, Sony is giving away LEGO Horizon Adventures, The Outlast Trials, Synduality Echo of Ada, Neon White, and Killing Floor 3.
That’s on top of free-to-play titles like Fortnite, Marvel Rivals, Destiny 2, Rocket League, Warframe, Overwatch 2, Genshin Impact, VALORANT, and many, many more. That should keep you busy well into 2026!
