The PlayStation 5 offers two power modes when you’re not actively using the console – rest mode and fully powered off. Both options have their own pros and cons, so should you keep your PS5 in rest mode or powered off when not playing? Here’s a look at the differences between the two to help you decide which is best for your usage.
What is rest mode on the PS5?
Rest mode, indicated by an orange light on your PS5, suspends the console into a low-power state while still keeping key functions running. This allows you to charge controllers, download updates and games, connect remotely, and power back on quickly.
Some of the main benefits of using rest mode include:
- Fast start up – Your PS5 can boot from rest mode in just seconds, allowing you to jump back into your game much quicker than restarting from fully off.
- Remote connections – You can connect to your PS5 remotely from the PlayStation app to download games, manage saved data, etc.
- Controller charging – Your DualSense controllers will charge while in rest mode.
- Downloads & updates – Game and system updates will download and install in rest mode.
Rest mode uses a minimal amount of power to keep these key functions running. Although not fully off, it uses far less power than active use or powered on.
What happens when the PS5 is turned off?
Turning the PS5 fully off powers down the entire system. When powered off, indicated by no light on your console, all processes are halted. Nothing is kept active, including:
- No remote connections
- No controller charging
- No downloads or updates
- No rest mode functions at all
The main appeal of powering down completely is that no power is being used at all. But this comes at the cost of the conveniences of rest mode.
Key differences between rest mode vs. powered off
Here is a quick rundown of the major differences between using rest mode or turning the PS5 fully off:
| Rest Mode | Powered Off |
|---|---|
| Fast start up time | Slower start up time |
| Remote connections | No remote connections |
| Charges controllers | Does not charge controllers |
| Downloads games & updates | No downloads or updates |
| Minimal power used | No power used |
Should you use rest mode or turn off your PS5?
Now that you know the differences, should you be using rest mode or powering down your PS5? Here are some guidelines:
Use rest mode if:
- You want to resume playing quickly
- You are downloading large games and want them to finish
- You want to connect and manage your PS5 remotely
- You want controllers to charge
- You don’t mind a small amount of background power usage
Rest mode is ideal if you are going to use your PS5 again relatively soon and want those convenience features enabled.
Power down fully if:
- You won’t use your PS5 again for an extended time
- You want zero power consumption when not playing
- You don’t need remote access or background downloads
- You are away from home or traveling
Fully powering down makes the most sense if you won’t use your PS5 for a longer stretch and want to save all power when not in use.
Other tips for rest mode vs. off
Here are some other usage tips based on PlayStation’s own recommendations:
- Avoid unplugging the PS5 while in rest mode, as you may lose data.
- Power down fully if you plan to unplug or move your PS5.
- Don’t use rest mode if your PS5 is overheating. Power off to let it cool.
- Set automatic updates so your games update while in rest mode.
- Charge your controllers fully before powering down.
- Close games and apps before entering rest mode.
Is rest mode bad for your PS5?
Generally, no – using rest mode is completely safe for your PS5. The low power state won’t damage your console over time. However, here are some steps to avoid potential issues:
- Make sure your PS5 has proper ventilation in rest mode and can’t overheat.
- Don’t unplug the power cord from rest mode, as you may risk data errors or corruption.
- Use a surge protector to avoid electrical damage from power fluctuations.
- Avoid interruptions like power outages that could disrupt rest mode.
As long as you use rest mode properly and your PS5 is kept in a safe operating environment, leaving it in rest mode will not harm your console.
Conclusion
In summary, here are some final tips on whether to use rest mode or power off with your PS5:
- Use rest mode for quick start ups and background downloads.
- Fully power down for long-term storage when not using PS5.
- Don’t unplug from rest mode; turn off fully if disconnecting.
- Rest mode is safe if used properly in a stable environment.
- Choose whichever mode best matches your usage needs.
Both rest mode and fully off have benefits that suit different situations. Evaluate whether you prioritize quick start up and background tasks or zero power usage to decide the best mode for your PS5 usage and habits.