Why PS4, PS5 lags and how to fix it?
The PlayStation 4 is still a fairly productive console, especially in the Pro version, so braking, lags, freezes, freezes and similar manifestations are unusual for it. PS5 has a huge performance, it shouldn’t have lags at all for many years to come. And yet they can be, only usually this is abnormal behavior, but indicates some kind of problem. Below is a list of the most effective ways to fix PS4 and PS5 lags.
Advice! If your console freezes or freezes in only one game, you need to make sure that this is not the case. You should look at user reports on the site DownDetector or on the thematic forum. Plus, many new games have performance problems for the first time, so you just need to be patient.
Method 1: free up space
For stable operation, any device needs a sufficient supply of free hard disk space. We recommend that you free about 10 GB of memory and always keep that amount free. You can see the current ratio of occupied and free space in the “Settings” – “Memory” section. The solution to the problem is to delete some unnecessary game.
Method 2: checking the drive
Diagnostics takes place in 3 stages:
- Inspection of the drive. Remove the cover from the console where the HDD or SSD is located and listen carefully. If you hear a squeak, crackle, and sometimes strange sounds appear, this is an alarming symptom. Most likely the disc is already on its last breath.
- Disk diagnostics. Best Free Problem Scanning Software – Victoria HDD / SSD… It will detect all the problems of the drive and give a more comprehensive view of its real state.
- Connecting another drive. Almost everyone already has an internal or external hard drive or SSD for backup use. Throw it in and see how the console works.
Method 3: improve cooling
Almost all electronics cannot function properly in high temperature environments. PS4 and PS5 also need a heat sink, if something gets in the way, there will be performance issues. They are mainly manifested in games.
What should be done:
- Clean the console from dust. All debris and dust must be removed as they reduce air circulation and trap heat dissipation.
- Install in a well ventilated area. It is enough that there are no physical obstacles on the sides and top. Do not place the console in any tight spaces or cover it with objects or fabrics.
- Place the console away from heating appliances. If it is partially in contact with a heating radiator, oven, air gets in from a hair dryer, UFO, etc., overheating will not be long in coming.
Method 4: turn off Game Boost mode
Many users noted that their PS4 performance improved, which means they stopped lagging after turning off forced mode (available only in PS4 Pro), aka supersampling mode. The developers themselves said that this function may not work correctly with some games. Basically Game Boost is intended for older titles and is generally not really needed. All the same, in all games with Pro support, it does not work, which means it is not so necessary.
How to turn off forced mode:
- Go to “Settings” on the “System” tab.
- Select the “Forced mode” parameter and set its state to the “Off” position.
Method 5: change graphics settings
Many modern games are capable of running in 4k mode, but the PS4’s power may not be enough for a comfortable pastime. In demanding projects, the fps level will be approximately 20-30 fps, which is not enough for a smooth gameplay. You should switch to 1080p mode, everything should work fine there. This method is also applicable to PS5, the performance of which, although it is sufficient for this task, may have problems with the optimization of a particular game.
Method 6: check the quality of the Internet
Chances are that the Wi-Fi signal is weak or intermittent enough to cause severe lags. Plus, internet speed may simply not be enough for a particular game. First, we recommend that you bring your laptop closer to the console and check the signal strength, perhaps you should think about moving the router, adding a repeater or cable connection of the console to the network. Then it makes sense to “Check the Internet connection” in the “Network” settings section and compare them with the requirements from the game. Additionally, you should clarify whether UDP and TCP ports 80, 443, 1935, 3478, 3479, 3480 are open in the router settings.
Method 7: installing an SSD
If the problem is that PS4 cannot produce enough fps in resource-intensive games, you should consider purchasing an SSD. It has been repeatedly proven and confirmed by thousands of users that installing an SSD (switching from HDD to PS4) leads to a manifold improvement in performance. The purchase takes the gameplay to the next level. This solution applies to PS4, as PS5 uses SSD by default.
It is also often suggested to upgrade the operating system, reverse engineer the database, or initialize the system. Although the listed methods do not work so often, it gives at least some chance of improving the situation. Most likely PS4 and PS5 will stop lagging after the listed actions, or at least the user will understand exactly what the problem is.
