As a proud PlayStation 5 owner, you’re likely eager to download new games as quickly as possible to jump into the action. But here’s the burning question many gamers ask:

Do PS5 games download faster in rest mode? Rest mode has become a popular feature for saving time and conserving energy, but can it really speed up your game downloads?

In this blog, we’ll dive into how the PS5’s rest mode works, explore whether it truly enhances download speeds, and address frequently asked questions surrounding this topic. If you’re looking to optimize your download experience, keep reading to learn key insights and tips that will take your gaming experience to the next level.

What is Rest Mode on PS5?

Rest mode is a feature on the PlayStation 5 that puts the console into a low-power state while keeping it operational for background tasks. It’s a middle ground between turning your PS5 off completely and leaving it fully powered on. In rest mode, your console can continue downloading games, system updates, and patches, while consuming far less energy.

For those looking to maximize efficiency, rest mode offers several benefits, including reduced power consumption, automatic updates, and the ability to resume your gaming session instantly.

Do PS5 Games Download Faster in Rest Mode?

Yes, PS5 games can download faster in rest mode, and here’s why:

  1. Dedicated System Resources: In rest mode, your PS5 isn’t running any other processes or applications like games, streaming services, or background apps. This means that more system resources are dedicated to downloading games, resulting in improved speeds.
  2. Reduced Network Congestion: When your console is actively running games or apps, it uses a portion of your bandwidth to support those functions. By entering rest mode, all available bandwidth is focused solely on downloads, potentially increasing the overall download speed.
  3. Optimized Power Consumption: The PS5 is designed to use less energy in rest mode, freeing up additional power to process downloads more efficiently. According to a study by the NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council), the PS5 consumes between 0.36 and 0.5 watts in rest mode, compared to the 100-200 watts needed during active gaming.

Frequently Asked Questions About PS5 Game Downloads in Rest Mode

1. Why do games download faster in rest mode?
When your PS5 is in rest mode, it suspends all non-essential operations. Since no games or apps are running, your internet connection and console resources are concentrated on downloading, leading to faster speeds.

2. How much faster are downloads in rest mode?
While there’s no universal number, many users report a noticeable increase in download speeds when switching from active mode to rest mode. Download speeds can improve by as much as 10-20%, depending on your internet connection and how many applications were running in the background during active use.

3. Can all downloads occur in rest mode?
Yes, you can download both games and updates in rest mode. However, it’s essential to ensure you have the proper settings configured. Go to your PS5’s settings, navigate to “Power Saving,” and enable “Stay Connected to the Internet” to allow downloads to continue while your console is in rest mode.

4. Do I need to keep the PlayStation 5 plugged in for rest mode downloads to work?
Yes, the PS5 must remain plugged into a power source for downloads to continue in rest mode. If the console is unplugged or loses power, the download will pause until power is restored.

5. Can I play games while downloading in rest mode?
You cannot actively play games while the PS5 is in rest mode. The benefit of rest mode is that it prioritizes downloads by turning off all non-essential functions, including gameplay, to boost speed.

6. Will putting the PS5 in rest mode every time damage the console?
Rest mode is designed for regular use and will not harm your PS5. However, it’s important to ensure proper ventilation to avoid any risk of overheating.

How to Enable Downloads in Rest Mode on PS5

To make the most out of rest mode, follow these simple steps to ensure your console is properly set up:

  1. Go to Settings: From your home screen, navigate to the settings icon.
  2. Select Power Saving: Scroll down and click on “Power Saving” settings.
  3. Choose “Set Features Available in Rest Mode”: Select this option.
  4. Enable Internet Connection: Ensure the “Stay Connected to the Internet” box is checked, allowing your PS5 to download games and updates while in rest mode.

Additional Benefits of Downloading in Rest Mode

  1. Automatic Updates: In rest mode, your PS5 will not only download new games but also automatically download system and game updates in the background. This keeps your console and games ready to go when you’re ready to play.
  2. Energy Efficiency: By downloading in rest mode, you significantly reduce power consumption. Instead of keeping your PS5 fully powered on for hours, you can leave it in rest mode and still accomplish everything.
  3. Avoid Network Interruptions: Since rest mode dedicates all available resources to downloading, you’re less likely to experience network slowdowns or interruptions that may happen while streaming or playing online games.

Conclusion

So, do PS5 games download faster in rest mode? The answer is a resounding yes! By utilizing the rest mode feature, you’re maximizing the potential of your PS5’s hardware and internet connection, which ultimately leads to faster downloads. Plus, rest mode’s energy-saving capabilities make it an excellent option for those looking to conserve power while still getting the most out of their gaming experience.

If you’re looking to improve download speeds and ensure your games and updates are ready when you are, enabling rest mode is a simple yet powerful solution. Make sure to configure your settings correctly, and you’ll never have to worry about slow downloads again.