Tutorials · PlayStation
PS4: copy a game save to USB storage
Want a copy of your progress before changing consoles or continuing a game? PS4 lets you select saved game data to export to USB. Identify the right version, copy it and check what is present before relying on it.
Before you start
PS4, PS4 Slim or PS4 Pro. The relevant user must have signed in to PlayStation Network at least once. Use a compatible FAT or exFAT USB device with enough free space. Back up its existing files first if formatting is necessary.
1. Identify the progress you want to keep
Start with the correct game and user. Note the progress you want to preserve: a chapter, career or save slot. This note helps when comparing files later, especially if several people play the same title.
This procedure copies saved game data, not the complete console. Before a full initialisation, consider the other data you want to retain as well.
2. Copy the selected save files to USB
- Connect the USB device, then open Settings → Application Saved Data Management.
- Choose Saved Data in System Storage → Copy to USB Storage Device.
- Select the game and saved data to keep, then start copying.
- Let the operation finish before removing the device.
The manual allows you to choose files for each game. USB copying is separate from PlayStation Plus online storage.
If a game has several files whose purpose is unclear, note their names before choosing. Do not delete unfamiliar files merely to simplify the list.
3. Check the contents of the USB device
Return to Application Saved Data Management → Saved Data on USB Storage Device. Inspect the relevant game’s list without selecting Delete or copying files back merely for this check.
Expected result: the selected data appears on USB under the correct game.
Add the date and user name to your notes. Keep the original save on the console while checking the copy. Seeing a USB file alone does not prove that it represents the point in the game you intended to preserve.
4. Understand copying a save back
To import a save, choose Saved Data on USB Storage Device → Copy to System Storage. The account originally used must have signed in at least once on the destination console.
Before confirming an overwrite, compare the copy with progress made since it was created. An old save can intentionally take you back, but choosing it without checking can replace more recent progress.
Write down your intention first: “resume yesterday’s save” or “preserve today’s progress.” This avoids confusing the backup you possess with the game state you actually want.
If the USB device or saved data is missing
Check the device’s file system, whether its connector is fully inserted and which menu you opened. The manual notes that some device shapes can prevent proper connection. Compare the game and user with your notes.
Do not reformat a device containing your only copy to resolve a read error. First record the exact message, storage model and direction of copying: console to USB or USB to console. These details support a targeted diagnosis.
After another play session, the previous copy may no longer represent current progress. Choose a backup interval based on how much you are willing to replay, for example after a long session or before changing hardware.
Sources and scope
Translated from the French guide based on official documentation checked on 2026-10-15. This guide does not claim physical testing on your equipment. LODEX’s preparation and result checks are practical advice; follow any warnings shown by your device.
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