How to Factory Reset Your PlayStation 4 or 5 Before Selling

The PlayStation 5, launched in 2020, is now well into the second half of its lifecycle. With newer consoles like the Nintendo Switch 2 entering the market, many gamers are considering selling or gifting their PS5s. But before passing your console on, there’s a crucial step you must not skip: factory resetting it to wipe all your personal data.

Factory resetting your console protects your privacy and ensures the next user starts with a clean slate. Even though you might not store sensitive documents on your PS5 or PS4 like you do on a laptop or smartphone, leftover data such as account information, saved games, and preferences can still pose risks.

How to Reset Your PlayStation 5

To factory reset your PS5, start at the Home Screen and navigate to Settings > System > System Software > Reset Options. Here, you’ll find three choices:

• Clear Learning Dictionary: Removes the history of typed terms on your console.
• Restore Default Settings: Resets all settings to default but keeps your data intact.
• Reset Your Console: Fully erases all data and restores factory settings.

If you’re selling or giving away your PS5, choose “Reset Your Console” to ensure all personal information is wiped clean.

How to Reset Your PlayStation 4

Resetting a PS4 is slightly different. Navigate to Settings > Initialization. You will see three options similar to the PS5:

• Clear Learning Dictionary: Clears typed term history.
• Restore Default Settings: Resets settings but keeps data.
• Initialize PS4: Erases all data and restores factory defaults.

To prepare your PS4 for sale or gifting, select “Initialize PS4” to wipe your data completely.

Taking these simple steps protects your privacy and ensures your console is ready for its next chapter. Whether upgrading or passing on your device, factory resetting is a must.