To free up space on PS4 without deleting games, you can manage and delete unnecessary saved data, clear out your capture gallery, remove unused themes and applications, utilize an external USB drive to offload games you’re not currently playing, or, as a last resort, rebuild the database to reorganize the system storage. By implementing these methods, you can reclaim valuable storage space while keeping your cherished game library intact.
Methods to manage PS4 console storage space
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Methods To Free Up Space On PS4 Without Deleting Games
Freeing up space on your PlayStation 4 can be a hassle, especially when you don’t want to delete your beloved games. Fear not, as we’ve compiled five foolproof methods to reclaim precious storage without sacrificing your gaming library.
1: Manage Saved Data
Saved game data can quickly accumulate and eat up your PS4’s storage. Streamline your saved data by following these simple steps:
- Go to Settings on your PS4 home screen.
- Scroll down and select Storage.
- Choose System Storage.
- Select Saved Data.
- You’ll see options for applications and system storage. Choose the type of data you want to manage (Applications for game saves).
- Select a specific game and choose the saved data files you no longer need.
- Press Options on your controller and select Delete.
2: Clear Capture Gallery
If you’re an avid screenshot or video clip capturer, your Capture Gallery might be taking up more space than you realize. Clear it out with these steps:
- Go to Library on the PS4 home screen.
- Select Capture Gallery.
- You’ll see your screenshots and video clips.
- Select unwanted content and press the Options button on your controller.
- Choose Delete to remove them.
3: Delete Themes and Applications
Unused themes and applications can also contribute to storage woes. Bid them farewell with these simple steps:
- Go to Settings on your PS4 home screen.
- Select Themes to manage themes you’re not using. Choose a theme and press Options, then select Delete.
- Go back to Settings and choose Storage.
- Select System Storage.
- Choose Applications.
- Here you’ll see a list of installed apps.
- Select an app you don’t use anymore and press Options on your controller.
- Choose Delete to remove it.
Check this to Delete Games on PS4
4: Use External Storage (USB Drive)
You can expand your PS4’s storage capacity by using an external USB drive. Here’s how:
- Get a compatible USB external hard drive with enough storage for your needs.
- Connect the external drive to a USB port on your PS4.
- Go to Settings on your PS4 home screen.
- Select Storage.
- Choose System Storage.
- Select Applications.
- Find a game you’re not actively playing and press Options on your controller.
- Choose Move to Extended Storage.
- Select the connected USB drive and choose the games you want to transfer.
5: Rebuild Database (Advanced Option)
This is an advanced option and should only be used as a last resort if other methods haven’t freed up enough space. It’s a lengthy process that reorganizes your PS4’s data and shouldn’t be attempted unless necessary.
- Completely turn off your PS4 (not Rest Mode).
- Hold the power button until you hear a second beep to boot into Safe Mode.
- Connect your controller via USB.
- On the Safe Mode screen, select Rebuild Database.
This process can take a long time, so be patient. Once it’s complete, your PS4 might restart automatically.
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