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Can I leave my PS4 on rest mode all day?

Leaving your PS4 on rest mode all day is generally safe, but there are a few factors to consider before doing so. Rest mode keeps the PS4 in a low-power state so it can charge controllers, download updates, and install games without being fully on. Here is a closer look at the pros and cons of leaving your PS4 in rest mode all day and what you need to know about safely using this feature.

The Benefits of Rest Mode

There are several benefits that make rest mode a convenient feature to use:

  • Charges controllers – Rest mode will charge any connected DualShock 4 controllers so they’re ready to use next time you play.
  • Downloads updates – Your PS4 will download any pending updates for system software, games, and apps while in rest mode.
  • Installs games – Games purchased from the PlayStation Store will automatically download and install while the console is resting.
  • Suspends gameplay – You can suspend supported games in rest mode and instantly resume where you left off.
  • Remote access – You can remotely turn on your PS4 from rest mode when away from home using the PlayStation app.
  • Saves energy – Your PS4 uses less power in rest mode than being fully on. This can help reduce your electricity bill.

The convenience and energy savings of rest mode make it ideal for times when you’re stepping away from your PS4 for several hours or overnight.

Potential Downsides of Rest Mode

While rest mode is generally safe to use, there are a few downsides to consider:

  • Increased energy usage – Rest mode uses more power than turning your PS4 fully off. This can increase your electricity bill over time.
  • System crashes – In rare cases, system software bugs or game issues can cause crashes or problems coming out of rest mode.
  • Update problems – If an update fails to install correctly in rest mode, it can cause issues with games or apps.
  • Accidental power loss – A temporary power outage or unplugging the console could force your PS4 to exit rest mode improperly.

These risks are relatively minor for most users. But they’re worth being aware of if you plan to use rest mode extensively.

Is It OK to Leave a PS4 in Rest Mode All Day?

Generally speaking, it’s perfectly safe to keep your PS4 in rest mode all day or overnight as long as you follow a few simple precautions:

  • Make sure your PS4 is in a well-ventilated area and not confined in a cabinet or enclosed space where it could overheat in rest mode.
  • Don’t unplug the power cord while the PS4 is in rest mode, as this could corrupt data or installed games.
  • Use a surge protector to avoid electrical spikes or lightning strikes cutting power unexpectedly.
  • Exit any suspended games before entering rest mode to avoid potential software errors or crashes.
  • Turn off the “Stay Connected to the Internet” setting if you want to limit the PS4’s network activity in rest mode.

You’ll also want to make sure your PS4’s system software is kept updated, as Sony releases patches over time that can improve system stability and fix rest mode bugs.

How to Use Rest Mode Safely

Follow these tips for safely using rest mode on your PS4:

  • Exit games first – Fully close any games or apps before entering rest mode to prevent potential issues resuming gameplay.
  • Check downloads – Confirm any downloads or installations from the PlayStation Store have finished before resting.
  • Use wired internet – Connect your PS4 via ethernet cable for faster, more reliable downloads in rest mode.
  • Disable HDMI link – Turn off HDMI link in settings to prevent TV input changing when PS4 exits rest mode.
  • Power saving settings – Adjust power save settings to disable USB power or limit rest mode time if desired.
  • Check notifications – When waking your PS4, check notifications for any installation or download issues.

Taking these precautions will help prevent any technical snags when relying on rest mode for an extended period.

How Many Hours in Rest Mode Are Safe?

There are no strict time limits for how long you can safely keep your PS4 in rest mode. Some users report leaving the PS4 in rest mode for multiple days with no issues. However, here are some general guidelines:

  • 24 hours or less – Generally very safe for short-term rest mode use, such as overnight.
  • 1-3 days – Acceptable for longer rest sessions, but monitor for any installation issues.
  • 3-5 days – Use caution if resting this long and check PS4 thoroughly after waking.
  • 1 week+ – Not recommended; fully power off PS4 after a few days to clear memory.

The optimal duration can vary based on your PS4 model and usage habits. When in doubt, fully power off the console every few days to clear any accumulated errors.

Does Rest Mode Use a Lot of Electricity?

The PS4 uses significantly less power in rest mode than when fully on and active. Exact energy usage varies between models:

PS4 Model Rest Mode Watts
Original PS4 8.5W
PS4 Slim 6W
PS4 Pro 8W

For comparison, the original PS4 uses about 80W when powered on and running intensive games. So rest mode saves 90% or more energy versus full operation.

Leaving your PS4 in rest mode 24/7 can use about 75-200kWh annually depending on the model. This costs $10-25 per year (based on average electricity rate of $0.13/kWh).

Alternatives to Rest Mode

If you don’t want to keep your PS4 in rest mode continuously, there are a couple alternatives:

  • Fully power off – Turn off your PS4 completely when not in use. You’ll miss out on automatic downloads and recharging, but save more energy.
  • Rest mode on a schedule – Use rest mode selectively during peak hours when you may want to game or need updates.
  • PlayStation app – Use the app to remotely wake your PS4 when needed instead of having it resting constantly.

Setting your PS4 to power off after 1-2 hours of inactivity can also provide a good balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it bad to put my PS4 in rest mode every night?

No, using rest mode overnight is fine and won’t harm your PS4. It’s designed to safely stay in rest mode for extended periods.

Can rest mode damage a PS4?

Rest mode is extremely unlikely to damage your PS4. In very rare cases, bugs or failed updates may cause issues coming out of rest mode.

Should I unplug my PS4 before rest mode?

You should not unplug the PS4 when it’s in rest mode, as this can interrupt updates and corrupt data. Only unplug when fully powered off.

Does rest mode pause downloads?

No, downloads and installations will continue as normal while the PS4 is in rest mode and connected online.

Can I access PS4 in rest mode remotely?

Yes, you can use the PlayStation app to connect to your PS4 in rest mode when away from home and power it on remotely.

Conclusion

Leaving your PS4 in rest mode during the day is generally safe. Rest mode provides convenience by charging controllers, updating games, and installing downloads even when not actively using the console. While a small amount of additional power is used, rest mode saves substantial energy versus full power on.

To prevent any potential issues, make sure your PS4 is well-ventilated, exit any open games before resting, and keep system software updated. Avoid leaving the console in rest mode for over a week continuously, and fully power off every few days. Following basic precautions will allow you to conveniently take advantage of rest mode without worries.