Does the PS5 have a Media Player?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a passionate gamer and entertainer myself, one of the first questions I explored after unboxing my shiny new PS5 was – can this play my personal media library from USB drives? The answer is yes, with some caveats.

PS5 Media Formats Supported

The built-in PS5 media player software can handle the following file types directly from a connected USB SSD or flash drive:

FormatContainersCodecs
VideoMP4, MKV, WEBMH.264, VP9
AudioMP3, AAC, FLAC, etc.AAC, MP3, FLAC
PhotosJPEG, BMP, PNG, GIFN/A

As you can see, the PS5 media capabilities cover most major formats – whether your digital library consists of MP4 films, MKV episodes, or music and images.

Crisp 4K Playback but No Discs or Streaming

The PS5 media player really shines with 4K video playback at up to 60fps. So your high-res MP4 and MKV media will look stunning on a compatible TV. HDR10 is also supported for brilliant colors and contrast.

However, physical discs like DVD, Blu-Ray, or 4K UHD cannot be played. And access to streaming apps is nonexistent. You won‘t find Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV or even YouTube. This player focuses solely on your USB content.

Simple Interface – Just Plug and Play

Accessing your media library is straightforward:

  1. Connect your USB drive to the PS5
  2. Press the R1 button from your Game Library screen
  3. Select "Media Gallery" app
  4. Choose USB device
  5. Select your media file to begin playback

Controls like pause, subtitles, volume adjustment are available during playback. But besides the lack of streaming support, advanced media center features seen on dedicated platforms are also absent here.

Convenient for Gaming Downtime

Consider the PS5‘s media support a nice supplementary capability – rather than a core entertainment focus like the console‘s immersive gaming experiences. It creates a handy option for enjoying your existing digital libraries during gaming breaks.

Combining big-screen gaming and media via one device is undeniably convenient as well. But serious home theater enthusiasts may still prefer standalone 4K Blu-Ray players and streaming boxes.

At the end of the day, no other device can match the PS5‘s gaming innovation. Its media features simply add complementary versatility to an already phenomenal package.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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