Introduction:
Can You Play Ps4 Disc Games On Ps5 Digital! If you’re thinking about upgrading to a PS5, you might be wondering what happens to all your old PS4 games—especially if they’re on discs. One common question many gamers have is: Can I play my PS4 disc games on the PS5 Digital Edition? It’s a smart question, especially if you don’t want your game collection to go to waste. In this post, we’ll give you a clear and simple answer, explain why it works that way, and help you choose the right PS5 for your needs.
What Does “Can You Play PS4 Disc Games on PS5 Digital” Mean?

This question comes up a lot among gamers who are thinking about switching from the PS4 to the PS5. Basically, people want to know if they can take their physical PS4 game discs and play them on the PS5 Digital Edition—which is the version of the PlayStation 5 that doesn’t have a disc drive.
To put it simply:
If you own PS4 games on disc, can you pop them into the PS5 Digital and start playing?
It’s an important thing to understand before buying the PS5 Digital, especially if you already have a collection of disc-based games from your PS4 days.
You May Also Like It:
Are Digital Games Killing Retail Stores
Digital Extremes Board Game Shooter Guide
Digital vs Physical Games: The Ultimate Showdown for Gamers
Why This Question Is Important
Understanding whether PS4 disc games work on the PS5 Digital Edition matters for a few key reasons—especially if you’re deciding which version of the PS5 to buy. Here’s why this question shouldn’t be overlooked:
Your Game Collection Might Be Useless
If most of your PS4 games are on physical discs, you won’t be able to use them on the PS5 Digital.
You’d have to rebuy those same games digitally, which can get expensive fast.
It Impacts Your Budget
The PS5 Digital Edition is usually cheaper than the standard version, but that savings might not be worth it if you have to repurchase your favorite games.
For some, it’s smarter to spend a little more upfront to save more in the long run.
It Affects Your Gaming Experience
The PS5 Standard lets you easily switch between disc and digital games.
With the Digital Edition, you’re 100% reliant on downloads and streaming, which may not suit every gamer’s style or internet connection.
No Option for Used or Borrowed Games
With no disc drive, you can’t play used PS4 discs or borrow games from friends.
You’re limited to digital purchases only—which often means higher prices and fewer deals.
Step-by-Step Guide: Can You Play PS4 Disc Games on PS5 Digital?

Step 1: Understand the Two PS5 Versions
- There are two versions of the PS5:
- PS5 Standard Edition – Has a disc drive
- PS5 Digital Edition – No disc drive (digital only)
- If your PS4 games are on discs, this difference is very important.
Step 2: Look at Your PS4 Game Collection
- Check what kind of games you own:
- Physical discs? (You insert them into your PS4)
- Digital downloads? (You bought them from the PlayStation Store)
- If most of your games are physical discs, this guide is especially for you.
Step 3: Realize the Limitation of PS5 Digital
- The PS5 Digital Edition does not have a disc drive, which means:
- You can’t insert PS4 discs into it.
- You can’t install or play games from physical discs.
- It only works with digital games from the PlayStation Store or PS Plus.
Step 4: Know What Does Work on PS5 Digital
- You can play PS4 games on the PS5 Digital Edition, but only if:
- You bought the game digitally from the PlayStation Store.
- The game is available for download again on PS5.
- The game is part of your PlayStation Plus library (if you’re a subscriber).
Step 5: Explore Your Alternatives
- If you still want to play PS4 disc games, here are your options:
- Buy a PS5 Standard Edition – It supports both PS5 discs and PS4 discs.
- Rebuy games digitally – Purchase the digital versions from the PlayStation Store.
- Use PS Plus Premium – Some PS4 titles are available for streaming/download.
Step 6: Make an Informed Choice
- Think about your current game library.
- Consider how you prefer to buy/play games (digital vs. disc).
- Decide which version of the PS5 makes the most sense for you long-term.
You May Also Like It:
Digital Playground Game of Thrones: A New Age War
Digit Game Studios – Fun Games for Everyone
Digital PS5 Games – Easy Download & Play
Advantages and Disadvantages of PS5 Digital
Advantages | Disadvantages |
Lower Cost The PS5 Digital is usually cheaper than the standard version, making it more budget-friendly for new buyers. | Can’t Use PS4 Disc Games If you have a physical collection, you’ll need to repurchase those games digitally or not play them at all. |
Sleeker Design Without a disc drive, the console is slightly slimmer and looks cleaner in setups. | No Option to Borrow or Buy Used Games You can’t borrow a disc from a friend or buy secondhand games at cheaper prices. |
All-Digital Convenience You can download games instantly without needing to insert or store physical discs. | Limited Storage Flexibility With all games being digital, your internal SSD fills up faster, and you’ll likely need external storage. |
No Moving Parts (Quieter) With no disc drive spinning, the console runs a bit quieter and has fewer parts that could wear out. | No Physical Resale Value You can’t sell or trade your digital games like you could with discs. |
Great for New Gamers or Digital Buyers If you’re just starting your collection or prefer digital games anyway, you won’t miss the disc support. | Requires Strong Internet Access Since all games are downloaded or streamed, a fast and stable internet connection becomes a must. |
Common FAQs (Frequently Asked Question)
Q1: Can I insert my PS4 disc into the PS5 Digital Edition?
A: Nope! The PS5 Digital doesn’t have a disc drive, so there’s nowhere to insert your PS4 disc.
Q2: Is there any way to convert my PS4 disc games into digital copies for PS5 Digital?
A: Unfortunately, no. Sony doesn’t offer a way to swap your physical games for digital versions. You’d need to repurchase the digital copy.
Q3: Can I still play PS4 games on PS5 Digital?
A: Yes, but only if you own the digital version of the game or it’s available through PlayStation Plus.
Q4: What happens to my saved game data from PS4?
A: You can transfer your save data from PS4 to PS5 (Digital or Standard) using cloud saves (if you have PS Plus) or a USB drive.
Q5: Can I use external storage to play PS4 disc games on PS5 Digital?
A: No. Even if you install a PS4 game on an external drive, the PS5 Digital still requires the original disc to play. No disc drive = no play.
Q6: I have some digital PS4 games. Will they work on PS5 Digital?
A: Yes! If you bought PS4 games digitally through your PlayStation account, you can redownload and play them on the PS5 Digital.
Q7: Should I get the PS5 Digital if I have a lot of PS4 disc games?
A: Probably not. If you want to keep using your disc collection, the PS5 Standard Edition is the better choice.
Conclusion
If you have a lot of PS4 games on disc, the PS5 Digital Edition won’t be able to play them—it doesn’t have a disc drive. That means you’d need to rebuy those games digitally or choose the PS5 Standard Edition instead.
The Digital Edition is great for gamers who already buy everything online, but if you love your disc collection, the standard PS5 is the way to go. Make sure to choose the version that fits your gaming style best!
Bonus Tips for PS5 Buyers
Check Your Game Library Before Buying
- Take a quick look at how many PS4 games you own on disc vs. digital—it’ll help you choose the right PS5 version.
Watch for Game Sales
- If you decide to go digital, keep an eye on PlayStation Store sales. You can often grab digital PS4 titles at a discount.
Use Cloud Saves with PS Plus
- If you’re switching consoles, PS Plus makes it super easy to transfer save data with cloud saves.
External Storage Can Help
- Even though the PS5 Digital can’t use discs, you can store and play digital PS4 games from an external USB drive to save space.
Future-Proof Your Setup
- Think about your long-term gaming habits—if you ever want to play a physical game, the Standard Edition might be a better investment.
You May Also Like It:
Ultimate Guide to Digital Basketball Games – Play Compete, and Have Fun
Decodables Game: The Ultimate Guide to Phonics Learning in 2025