8 easy fixes for a PS4 that’s running slow

⚡ Fast fix

• Restart first. A quick reboot can clear temporary glitches and free up system resources.
• Storage maxed out? A nearly full hard drive can slow down game launches, menus, and updates.
• Lag online only? Run a network test to see if your internet connection is the problem.
• Rebuild the database. This can clean up cluttered system files and improve performance.

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It's the weekend. You've got your snacks lined up, your friends are online, and you’re ready to go. But as soon as you turn on your PlayStation®, all you see is a freeze frame.

Need assistance to revive your PS4™? Look no further; we've got you covered. At uBreakiFix® by Asurion, our experts are here to help with all of your tech care needs, from gaming console repairs to sharing what to look for when shopping for your next gaming console. Here are the reasons behind your PS4's sluggishness and how to boost its speed.

Why is my PS4 running slow?

Common causes include low storage space, an outdated system, dealing with a poor internet connection, or simply needing a good system cleanup.

Steps to fix a slow PS4

Follow these troubleshooting steps to figure out what's wrong with your console—and how to fix it.

1. Restart your PS4

Beginning with the basics, a system restart can often resolve minor glitches and clear temporary files that may slow down your PS4.

2. Check the internet connection

If your PS4 is lagging online, your internet connection could be the culprit. Test your speed and consider switching to a wired connection, which may be more stable. You can do this by going to ‌Settings > Network > Run Network Test. 

Notice there’s no network signal? Check your modem’s internet connection.  

3. Update your PlayStation 4

Making sure your PS4 is up-to-date with the latest software can improve its performance. Regular updates can fix bugs and enhance your system’s efficiency. 

1. Go to your Settings.
2. Select System Software Update.
3. Select Upgrade if there's an available update.

4. Delete game data

Removing games you no longer play and all of their stored data can free up space and improve how your system works. Follow these steps to delete game data: 

1. Go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management.
2. Depending on where you saved your game, you’ll select System Storage, Online Storage, or USB Storage. Then, select Delete.
3. Select a game, then select All.
4. Select Delete, then select OK. 

5. Free up hard drive space

A full hard drive can impact your PS4's speed. Clean your storage by deleting unused files or moving them to an external hard drive.

6. Rebuild the database

This process can help organize the data on your PS4 and can be done by starting the console in Safe Mode and selecting "Rebuild Database." Follow these steps to rebuild your console’s database: 

1. Press the Power button to turn the console off.
2. To enter Safe Mode, press and hold the Power button until you hear two beeps.
3. Press the PS button on your controller.
4. Select Rebuild Database, then select Restart.

7. Replace the hard drive 

If other solutions don’t help, consider replacing your PS4's hard drive. Your console’s drive might be damaged and need a quick repair. Or it just might be having trouble meeting the demand of graphic-heavy games. An upgrade, especially to an SSD, can make a noticeable difference in speed and loading times.

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FAQ

Does rebuilding the PS4 database help performance?

It can. Rebuilding the database reorganizes system data and often helps with slow menus, longer load times, and general sluggishness.

Can a full hard drive slow down a PS4?

Yes. When storage gets too full, your PS4 has less room to manage updates, game data, and system files efficiently.

Will replacing the hard drive make my PS4 faster?

In many cases, yes. Upgrading to an SSD can improve load times and make the system feel more responsive overall.

Why is my PS4 only slow when playing online games?

If offline games run fine but online games lag, the issue is usually your network connection rather than the console itself.

When should I get my PS4 checked out?

If you've tried restarting, freeing up storage, updating the system, and rebuilding the database but it's still running slowly, there may be a hardware issue that needs help from a PS4 repair pro.