How to Solve PS4 Running Slow [Reasons & Fixes]

Cici updated on Jan 11, 2024 | Home >Computer Instruction

Have you witnessed the slowing down of your PS4 while playing a crucial game? PS4 is an excellent video game console that offers a wide range of exciting features. Gamers love that PS4 offers multiplayer gaming options, a better controller, streaming support, and more!

Various reasons could lead to the PS4 Running Slow. Understanding them can help in the implementation of the right solutions. Luckily, there are several solutions one can apply. In this article, we will discuss the reasons that cause PS4 to run slow and the different solutions that can be applied.

Why Is PS4 Running Slow

Multiple causes explain why the PS4 is running slow. However, you must understand these reasons better to adopt the necessary solutions. Take a look at the causes listed here:

  • Poor Internet connection
  • Low disk space
  • Hard drive failure
  • PS4 overheating and malfunction
  • Dust accumulation and poor ventilation of the operating console
  • Outdated PS4 system
  • Corrupt PS4 database

Further reading: PS4 External Hard Drive Not Working

How to Fix PS4 Running Slow  - Top 8 Ways

Are you eager to resolve your PS4 running slow? There are several solutions one can adopt to fix the problem. Check out the fixes here:

  1. 1. Restart PS4
  2. 2. Check the Internet Connection
  3. 3. Delete the Game Data
  4. 4. Free Up Hard Drive Space
  5. 5. Check the Hard Drive Health
  6. 6. Rebuild the Database
  7. 7. Update PS4
  8. 8. Replace the Hard Drive

1. Restart PS4

The simplest solution to the PS4 running slow is to restart the device. However, keep the PS4 in Rest Mode before you restart the system. With the restart, you can resolve most problems.

Here are the steps you need to follow to restart PS4:

Step 1: Press the PS button and hold it. Now, you will come across the Power options.

Step 2: Choose the option – Turn off PS4. Wait for the system to turn off. Now, remove the power cable.

Restart PS4

Step 3: Wait for at least ten minutes. After that, reconnect the power cables.

Step 4: Press the PS button and turn it on.

2. Check the Internet Connection

Have you noticed a lag in the games in the online mode of the PS4? In that case, the culprit could be the internet connection. A lack of speed can lead to an issue with the system's performance. For that, try to reboot the router you have.

If you are not sure about the internet speed, use speed-checking websites. Various sites aid in the determination of the network speed. Opt for a repeater network booster for an enhanced signal if the router is not near you. If nothing works, you might need to change the internet connection.

3. Delete the Game Data

Did you know that every game you play stores memory in the hard drive? That's right! The games you play on the PS4 have temporary files on the hard drive. However, over time, it can take up a large amount of space in the hard drive.

Deleting these saved data is one of the quickest fixes to clear the space. That way, you won't have to opt for the drastic step of uninstalling games.

Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Open Settings. Choose the Application Saved Data Management option.

Step 2: Opt for the Saved Data under the System Storage option. Go ahead with the Delete button.

Application Saved Data Management

Step 3: Choose the gaming apps. Once you come across the saved data, you can delete them.

By deleting data on PS4, you can also get more storage on PS4. Next, we will give a solution on how to free up hard drive space. If you want to know more detailed information about PS4 full, click the link below:

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4. Free Up Hard Drive Space

If your hard drive is on the 90-95% space capacity, it's time for a cleaning haul. Take some time to look into the drive and see what games can be uninstalled. If you don't do that, you will witness a staggering decline in the performance of PS4.

Take a look at the steps to follow to get rid of games from PS4:

Step 1: Open Settings. Select the System Storage Management option. Now, there is a list of the games installed.

Delete PS4 Game Data

Step 2: Go to the Applications option. Select the Options button. Go ahead with the Delete option.

Step 3: Check out the list of games. Click on the Delete button.

In addition to freeing up space by deleting files, you can also wipe hard drive on Windows to prevent privacy leaks. If you don't want to lose your data, copy the partition to another drive.

Notice:
If you want to perform PS4 hard drive operations on Windows, please uninstall the hard drive from PS4 first. For specific steps, please check: https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/PlayStation+4+Hard+Drive+Replacement/24717

5. Check the Hard Drive Health

Do you want to check the health of your hard drive? You need to disassemble the PS4 hard drive first and then connect it to the computer. In that case, opting for a professional PC disk management tool is an excellent idea. Check out EaseUS Partition Master!

Free Download 

Windows 11/10/8/7100% Secure

EaseUS Partition Master is an excellent tool that offers a wide range of features related to disk management. Moreover, it is easy to use. It can easily check the temperature and S.M.A.R.T status of the hard disk. And analyze the different bad sectors to repair them afterward.

Step 1. Launch EaseUS Partition Master and click the blue arrow to activate the "Disk Health" feature under the "Discovery" section.

click the bule arrow

Step 2. Select the target disk and click the "Refresh" button. Then, you can see the health condition of your disk.

choose the target disk

In addition, EaseUS Partition Master has many topics to help you solve the problems you encounter on PS4 or PS5, for example:

Whatever errors you meet, you can try EaseUS Partition Master!

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If you want to learn more information about hard drive failure symptoms and other methods to check hard drive health, you can watch this video.

6. Rebuild the Database

A cluttered database can lead to a slowing down of the PS4 performance. In that case, rebuilding the database is an excellent idea. An organized database offers better data access time, which improves performance significantly.

Check out the steps you must adopt:

Step 1: Select the PS button present on the PS4 controller. Choose the Power option. Now, press the Turn off PS4 option.

Step 2: Connect the console and controller with a USB cable. Press the power button and hold it till you hear two beeping sounds.

Rebuild Database PS4

Step 3: Look for the Rebuild Database option once you enter safe mode. Select that option and go ahead with OK. Wait for some time for the completion of the process.

7. Update PS4

Have you tried updating your PS4? Even though it sounds simple, it still works like a charm most of the time. However, ensuring all the games were closed before you move ahead with the update would be best.

Here are the steps to update PS4:

Step 1: Check the internet connection and make sure it is strong and stable. Open Settings.

Step 2: Choose the System Software Update option. If you see any update available, choose the Update option. Now, you must download it. Please wait for it to be complete.

Update System Software

Step 3: Open Notifications. Choose Downloads. Install the recent version immediately.

8. Replace the Hard Drive

If nothing works, you can try replacing the hard drive. In that case, the brand-new one will get you the desired speed. It is advisable to purchase hard drives from official stores.

Ensure you read all the specifications before purchasing, using the new hard drive, and backing up the previous data. For that, go to Settings and then choose the System option. Go to backup and restore and opt for the Back up PS4 option.

After that, you need to download the latest version. Now, shut down the console and take out the previous hard drive. Enter Safe mode in PS4 and connect the new hard drive to the controller using a USB cable. Follow the steps to view the detailed guide on PS4 hard drive upgrade:

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How to Upgrade PS4 Hard Drive [Step-by-Step Tutorial]

Do you know how to upgrade PS4 hard drive for a better gaming experience or more storage? This article will show you the complete guide on PS4 hard drive upgrade without losing data.

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Conclusion

Are you frustrated with the slow functioning of your PS4? Multiple reasons contribute to this scenario. These include poor internet connection, corrupted database, lack of hard drive space, etc. There are several solutions one can apply to resolve the problem.

For instance, you can change the net connection or update your PS4. Besides, you can also free up space on the hard drive. If you want to check the hard drive's health, opting for professional software is an excellent idea. In that case, you can opt for EaseUS Partition Master.

Free Download 

Windows 11/10/8/7100% Secure

The EaseUS Partition Master is an efficient and user-friendly software. It has many features to simplify disk management on your system. Install and download EaseUS Partition Master today!

FAQs About PS4 Running Slow

These are the different ways you can fix the PS4 running slow problem. However, to gain more knowledge, take a look at the questions and answers below -

1. What causes a PS4 to run slowly?

Various causes lead to the PS4 running slow. It can be due to a slow net connection or lack of space within the hard drive. Other reasons include damaged hard drives, dust accumulation, overheating, etc.

2. How can I speed up my PS4?

To speed up your PS4, you can adopt multiple solutions. These are:

  • Clean the device physically to get rid of blockages.
  • Check game settings and see if everything is fine.
  • Upgrade PS4 to the latest version.
  • In case of a corrupted PS4 database, rebuild it.

3. Will cleaning my PS4 make it faster?

Yes, cleaning the PS4 will improve its performance. That is because, with time, dust, dirt, and grime accumulate within the device. Lack of cleaning can clog the events, making it difficult for the system to perform optimally.

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Updated by Oliver

Oliver is an EaseUS professional writer who dares explore new areas. With a passion for solving tech issues with straightforward guides for common users, Oliver keeps honing his writing craft by developing in-depth solutions for disk and partition management, computer boot-up issues, file transfer, etc.

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Written by Cici

Cici is the junior editor of the writing team of EaseUS. She accepted the systematic training on computers at EaseUS for over one year. Now, she wrote a lot of professional articles to help people resolve the issues of hard drive corruption, computer boot errors, and disk partition problems.

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