Should You Plug your PS5 Directly Into the Wall?
I get it – those extra cables and boxes between your shiny new PS5 and the wall outlet are annoying. But should convenience outweigh safety? When it comes to protecting a $500 gaming investment, I recommend using a surge protector instead of plugging directly into the wall. Here‘s why:
It‘s Generally Safe, But Risks Exist
The PS5 has a built-in surge protector that protects against spikes up to 1000 joules. For small surges, it does its job. However, according to electronics manufacturer Belkin, the average surge is 3000 joules – triple the PS5‘s rating! And major surges or lightning strikes can be even worse, with over 100,000 joules. While the PS5‘s protection prevents damage most of the time, it leaves you vulnerable to catastrophe if a powerful storm rolls through.
Extra Protection Is Cheap Insurance
You invested around $500 or more for cutting-edge power – don‘t leave it at risk! For just $20-40, you can get a great surge protector that absorbs excess energy before it damages your console. Let‘s break down the costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Replacement PS5 Console | $499 |
| High-End Surge Protector | $39.99 |
Which sounds better – replacing a cheap power strip or your fancy new gaming system? And don‘t forget the headache of losing your game progress and redownloading everything. A little upfront cost avoids catastrophe down the road!
Safety First! Additional Tips
- Unplug during major electrical storms – don‘t risk frying your console even with protection
- Periodically inspect the wall socket and cables for overheating
- Ensure outlet is properly grounded – no 3-to-2 prong adapters!
At the end of the day, the convenience of plugging your PS5 straight into the wall just isn‘t worth the risk. Take it from me, a fellow gamer who learned this lesson the hard way years ago and lost my gaming data. Protect your investment – your future self will thank you!
