The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has taken gaming to new heights with its advanced hardware and features. However, like any sophisticated system, it comes with a default set of settings that may not be optimal for every user.
Delving into the settings menu can unlock hidden gems that enhance your gaming experience. In this guide, we will explore five settings that you should consider turning off to enhance your gaming experience on the PS5.
It’s crucial to remember that the “best” settings are subjective and depend on your individual preferences, device capabilities, and game types. Experimenting is key to finding the sweet spot that suits you best. This guide highlights settings that often hinder performance or provide minimal benefit for most users. So, let’s dive in!
PS5 Features You Can Confidently Turn Off
1. Disable Automatic Game Updates
One of the default settings on the PS5 is automatic game updates. While this feature seems convenient, it can be a double-edged sword. Automatic updates can consume bandwidth and cause slow internet speeds during gameplay. Moreover, updates may introduce bugs or changes that you might not be prepared for, impacting your gaming experience negatively.
How to Turn Off Automatic Game Updates
To disable automatic game updates on your PS5, navigate to Settings, then Saved Data and Game/App Settings, and finally, Automatic Updates. From there, you can turn off the Auto-Download and choose to update games manually.
2. Turn Off Trophy Screenshots
The PS5 captures screenshots automatically when you earn a trophy. While this may be a fun feature, it can quickly fill up your storage space with unnecessary screenshots. If you are not an avid user of the screenshot feature, turning off trophy screenshots can help free up storage for more critical game data.
Adjusting Trophy Screenshot Settings
To disable trophy screenshots, go to Settings, then Captures and Broadcasts, then select Trophies from the Captures menu, and finally, Save Trophy Screenshot. Here, you can select None from the right side menu for taking trophy screenshots to prevent your storage from being cluttered with unnecessary images.
3. Disable HDCP for Better Streaming and Recording
High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) is a feature that protects copyrighted content on your PS5. However, it can hinder your ability to stream or record gameplay footage. Turning off HDCP can improve the quality of your recordings and enable a smoother streaming experience.
How to Turn Off HDCP
To disable HDCP on your PS5, go to Settings, then System, and finally, HDMI. From there, uncheck the box for HDCP and enjoy enhanced flexibility for streaming and recording your gameplay.
4. Adjust In-Game Chat Settings
The PS5 allows in-game chat by default, but sometimes the notifications and chat sounds can be distracting during intense gaming sessions. Adjusting these settings can help strike a balance between staying connected with friends and maintaining focus on your gameplay.
Customizing In-Game Chat
Navigate to Settings, then Sound, and finally, Microphone. Here, you can adjust the in-game chat settings, including notification sounds and microphone volume, to tailor the experience to your preferences.
5. Limit Data Collection
By default, the PS5 collects data for various purposes, including improving user experience and system performance. If you are concerned about privacy, you may want to limit the data collection by adjusting the settings accordingly.
Managing Data Collection Preferences
Go to Settings, then Users and Accounts, and finally, Privacy. From there, you can manage your data collection preferences, choosing to share only the necessary information.
Conclusion
Optimizing your PS5 settings can significantly enhance your gaming experience. By turning off certain features that may not align with your preferences, you can customize your console to better suit your needs. Remember to explore the settings menu thoroughly to find additional customization options that may contribute to an even more enjoyable gaming experience.
Also Read This: PS5 Games with Keyboard and Mouse Support: A Complete Guide
Q&A Section
Q: Can I re-enable automatic game updates after turning them off?
A: Yes, you can re-enable automatic game updates at any time by going back to Settings, then System, and System Software Updates.
Q: Will turning off trophy screenshots delete my existing screenshots?
A: No, turning off trophy screenshots will only prevent new ones from being captured. Your existing screenshots will remain in your storage.
Q: Does disabling HDCP affect the performance of my PS5?
A: Disabling HDCP should not affect the performance of your PS5. It primarily enhances your ability to record and stream gameplay.
Q: Can I customize in-game chat settings for each game?
A: No, the in-game chat settings are system-wide and apply to all games on your PS5.
Q: Is limiting data collection on my PS5 necessary for privacy?
A: Limiting data collection is a personal choice. If you are concerned about privacy, adjusting these settings can provide additional control over the information shared with Sony.
