how to delete other storage on ps4?

When you check your PlayStation 4 (PS4) storage, you might notice a category labeled “Other.” This section explains what PS4 storage is, specifically focusing on what data contributes to the “Other” segment. Understanding this can help you manage your storage more effectively and resolve issues when your console says your storage is full.

The total storage space on your PS4 is split between different categories, including Games, Applications, Media, and “Other.” The “Other” category is a catch-all that includes data that doesn’t fall into the typical categories. This can include system files, cached data, screenshots, videos, and even corrupted files. Over time, this “Other” space can grow larger, taking up valuable storage that you might want for games or apps.

To better understand what contributes to the “Other” data, consider the common types of files stored on your PS4:

• System cache files — temporary files created during gameplay or app use.
• Download and installation files — data that loads during game updates or app installs.
• Screenshots and video clips — media you save or capture during gameplay.
• Game data and saved patches — updates and game-related files stored on your console.
• Corrupted or residual files — leftover files from uninstalled games or failed updates.

Often, the “Other” space grows because cache files accumulate or because corrupted files aren’t cleaned up automatically. This can happen after game crashes, interrupted downloads, or incomplete updates. It can also be magnified if you frequently capture screenshots or videos directly on your PS4.

To manage the size of the “Other” storage, you can take some simple steps:

1. Restart your PS4 to clear temporary cache files.
2. Delete unnecessary screenshots and videos from the Capture Gallery.
3. Reinstall games or applications that may have corrupted files.
4. Keep your system updated to the latest firmware, as updates often include storage optimizations.
5. If storage issues persist, consider rebuilding your PS4 database from Safe Mode to clean up residual files.

Understanding what “Other” does and how it affects your PS4 storage helps you prevent problems before they happen. Regular maintenance, such as deleting unused media and keeping your system updated, will keep your console running smoothly and maximize available storage space.

How to Check Storage Usage on Your PS4

If your PS4 is running out of space or you’re trying to manage your games and files better, it’s helpful to check how much storage you’ve used and what is occupying that space. Your PS4 provides built-in options to view storage details, including how much space is taken up by games, applications, and other data types. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to checking your storage usage.

1. Turn on your PS4 and make sure you’re signed into your account.
2. Navigate to the main menu and go to the Settings icon, which looks like a toolbox or gear.
3. Scroll down and select “Storage”. This option shows the total capacity and available space on your PS4’s hard drive.
4. View the storage details. You will see a list of categories such as “Applications,” “Captured Data,” “Themes,” and “Other Files.” The total space used by each is displayed along with the percentage of total storage.
5. Check “Applications” to see how much space your games and apps are taking. Keep in mind that some larger games can occupy several gigabytes.
6. Look at “Captured Data” to find saved screenshots and video clips. You might want to delete old or unnecessary captures to free up space.
7. Identify “Other Files”. This category can include system data, cached files, or miscellaneous data. If “Other” is taking up a lot of space, you might consider freeing some up by deleting unwanted applications or data.

Sometimes, the storage might appear full even if you’ve deleted many games or files. This could be due to cache buildup or system files. To clear cache, try restarting your PS4 or rebuilding the database in Safe Mode. Be cautious and follow instructions carefully to avoid data loss.

Regularly checking your storage usage helps prevent surprises when you want to install new games or updates. If you see that “Other” files are consuming a large portion of your space, consider transferring some data to an external drive or deleting old applications. This keeps your PS4 running smoothly and ensures you have plenty of space for new content.

Tips for Freeing Up Space on PS4 Quickly

Running out of storage space on your PS4 can slow down performance and prevent new games or updates from installing. Fortunately, you can free up space quickly by removing unnecessary files, apps, and other data. In this guide, we will walk you through some effective tips to clear storage and keep your PS4 running smoothly.

1. 1. Delete Unused Games and Apps

Start by reviewing your installed games and applications. To delete them, go to the main menu, highlight the game or app you no longer need, press the Options button on your controller, and select Delete. Confirm your choice. Removing large games you no longer play can free up gigabytes of space instantly. For example, uninstalling a 50GB game like Call of Duty can make a noticeable difference.

1. 1. Clear Cache and Saved Data

Sometimes, cached data and saved files take up unnecessary space. To clear cache, turn off your PS4 completely, unplug it from the power source for a few minutes, then plug it back in and turn it on. For saved data, navigate to Settings > Storage > System Storage > Saved Data. Select the data you no longer need and delete it. Remember, regular clearing of cache can improve system performance and free storage.

1. 1. Manage Download Files and Installations

If you have pending downloads, they can take up space. Pause or delete incomplete downloads through the Notifications menu. Also, consider reinstalling large updates for games you play less often, as these can sometimes be stored redundantly. Using the storage management tool, you can see which apps or games occupy the most space and remove the biggest offenders first.

1. 1. Utilize External Storage Devices

If your internal storage fills up quickly, adding an external USB drive can be a game-changer. The PS4 supports external drives up to 8TB. Format the drive following the on-screen instructions, then move or install games directly to it. This is an easy way to expand capacity without deleting existing data.

1. 1. Build a Regular Cleanup Routine

Keeping your PS4 tidy is easier if you set a routine. Schedule monthly checks to review your storage, delete unnecessary files, and uninstall games. This habit prevents clutter from piling up and helps your console run at peak performance. Remember, backing up saved data to the cloud or an external device ensures you don’t lose important progress when deleting files.

By following these tips, you can free up space on your PS4 quickly and easily. Regular maintenance keeps your system running smoothly, allowing you to enjoy your games without storage worries. Always double-check before deleting any data to avoid removing something valuable. With these simple steps, your PS4 will be ready for new adventures in no time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Delete Saved Data and Apps

If your PS4 is running out of storage space, deleting saved game data and uninstalling apps can help free up room. This process is straightforward and can improve your console’s performance. Below, you’ll find detailed steps to safely delete data and remove apps you no longer use.

1. Turn on your PS4 and sign in to your account. Make sure you have your login details handy. Once logged in, navigate to the main menu.
2. Access the Settings menu. From the main screen, scroll up to reach the top menu bar. Scroll right to find the gear-shaped icon labeled “Settings.” Select it to open the Settings menu.
3. Open Storage settings. In Settings, scroll down and select “Storage.” Here, you will see your console’s total storage and what data is taking up space.
4. Choose ‘System Storage’ or ‘Extended Storage’ depending on where the data is stored. Click on it to view a list of games, apps, and saved data.
5. Delete game data or apps to free space. To delete specific apps or game data, select “Applications” or “Saved Data.” Then, highlight the items you want to remove and press the “Options” button on your controller. Select “Delete” from the menu.
6. Confirm deletion. A prompt will ask if you’re sure. Confirm by selecting “OK.” The selected app or data will be permanently deleted, freeing up storage space.
7. Uninstall unnecessary games or apps. In the list, you can see all installed applications. To remove one, highlight the app, press “Options,” and select “Delete.” Confirm when prompted.
8. Repeat as needed. Continue deleting items you no longer need. Be cautious to avoid deleting important saved data unless it has been backed up.
9. Back up important saved data. If you want to keep specific save files, consider uploading them to cloud storage or a USB device before deletion.
10. Manage storage regularly. To prevent running out of space, repeat these steps periodically. Regular cleanup helps your PS4 run smoothly and load faster.

By following these steps, you can effectively clear out saved data and uninstall apps to reclaim storage space on your PS4. Always double-check what you’re deleting to avoid losing important game progress. If you encounter any issues, restarting your console can often resolve minor glitches.

Managing Game Data and Downloads Efficiently

Managing game data, downloads, and updates effectively is key to preventing your storage from filling up too quickly. Large game files and frequent updates can quickly consume space on your device, causing slowdowns or requiring you to delete other files. By following these best practices, you can keep your gaming experience smooth and your storage optimized.

1. Regularly check your storage space. Use your device’s storage settings to monitor available space. On Windows, go to Settings > System > Storage. On consoles like PlayStation or Xbox, check the storage menu in system settings. This helps you identify when space is running low and plan your clean-up accordingly.
2. Prioritize what to keep. Remove outdated or unused games, especially those you haven’t played in a few months. Many platforms allow you to archive or uninstall games without deleting saved data, so you can re-download them later if needed.
3. Pause automatic downloads and updates. If you notice storage filling up rapidly, consider disabling auto-updates. This way, you can choose when to download large updates, preferably when you have ample space or faster internet. On consoles, this option is usually in the system settings under update preferences.
4. Manage game data and cache files. Many games store temporary data or cache files that can be cleared without affecting your saved progress. On PC, look for options within game settings or use cleanup tools. On consoles, you might need to manually delete cache via system options or restart the device in a special mode.
5. Use external storage if possible. Devices like external hard drives or SSDs expand your capacity. Install or move large games to the external drive to free up internal storage while still enjoying quick access. Many consoles support this feature seamlessly.
6. Schedule regular clean-ups. Dedicate a few minutes weekly or monthly to review your stored data. Delete old downloads, unused games, or unnecessary updates. This helps keep your system tidy and prevents sudden storage shortages.
7. Be mindful of game updates and downloads. Some updates can be very large, often several gigabytes. Before starting a big download, check your available space. If needed, delete or move other files temporarily.
8. Download updates selectively. If a game has multiple updates, prioritize the essential ones. Some platforms allow you to choose which updates to install, saving space and bandwidth.

Tips for Efficient Storage Management	Benefits
Regularly check storage space	Prevents unexpected full capacity and slowdowns
Uninstall unused games	Free up significant space and keep your library organized
Use external storage	Expands capacity without replacing your device
Schedule clean-ups and checks	Maintains system health and performance over time

Common Storage Problems and How to Fix Them

Many PS4 users face storage problems, such as running out of space or experiencing slow loading times. These issues can be frustrating, but most are easy to fix with a few simple steps. This guide will help you identify common storage problems and provide solutions to keep your PS4 running smoothly.

1. Check Your Storage Space
   Start by checking how much space is left on your PS4. Go to Settings > Storage. Here, you will see the total capacity and how much is used. If your storage is almost full, it can cause problems like slow performance or failed downloads.
2. Delete Unneeded Games and Apps
   One quick fix is to delete games or apps you no longer use. To do this, highlight the game, press the options button, then select Delete. Be careful to only remove things you don’t need to free up space quickly and easily.
3. Rebuild the Database
   Sometimes, storage problems are caused by corrupted data. Rebuilding the database can resolve these issues. Turn off your PS4 completely. Then, start it in Safe Mode by holding the power button until you hear two beeps. Connect your controller with a USB cable, select Rebuild Database. This process organizes your files and improves performance.
4. Upgrade Your Storage Drive
   If you constantly run out of space, upgrading to a larger hard drive can be a good solution. The PS4 supports replacing the internal hard drive with a new, bigger one. Make sure to back up your data first, then follow detailed guides available online to safely swap out the drive.
5. Manage Your Storage Data
   Regularly review your saved data and delete old or corrupted files. Navigate to Settings > Application Saved Data Management. From there, you can delete data stored on the system or upload important files to cloud storage if you have a PS Plus subscription.
6. Troubleshoot Slow Loading or Download Errors
   If your storage seems fine but games load slowly or downloads fail, the issue might be with your internet connection or cache. Clear the system cache by turning off the PS4, unplugging it from power for a minute, then plugging it back in. Also, consider optimizing your Wi-Fi or connecting via Ethernet for faster speeds.

Problem	Solution
Storage nearly full	Delete unused games or upgrade to a larger hard drive
Slow performance or errors	Rebuild the database or clear cache
Games or apps won’t install	Free up space or check your internet connection
Frequent crashes	Manage saved data or format the hard drive as a last resort

Quick Methods to Clear PS4 Cache and Boost Storage

If your PS4 is running slowly or giving storage errors, clearing the cache and freeing up space can help. These quick techniques will improve your console’s performance and storage capacity, making your gaming experience smoother. Let’s explore simple steps to clear cache and boost storage on your PS4.

1. Turning off your PS4 fully and then restarting it can clear temporary cache files that may be causing issues. To do this, press and hold the power button until the system powers down completely. Unplug the power cord from the back of the console. Wait for about 2 minutes, then plug it back in and turn on the PS4. This simple step helps clear out minor cache files and can fix minor glitches.
2. Unlike some other devices, PS4 doesn’t have a ‘clear cache’ button. But you can effectively clear cache by restarting the console, as described above. For more thorough cleaning, consider rebuilding the database. To do this, restart your PS4 in Safe Mode by turning it off completely, then pressing and holding the power button until you hear a second beep (about 7 seconds). Connect a controller with a USB cable and select ‘Rebuild Database.’ This process scans your drive and clears cached data, boosting performance.
3. Delete Unused or Large Games and Apps
   Storage capacity often fills up from apps or games you no longer use. Go to the main menu, highlight the game or app you want to delete, press the Options button, and choose ‘Delete.’ Confirm your choice. Removing unused content frees space for new downloads and updates. You can check your storage by navigating to ‘Settings’ > ‘Storage’ to see what’s taking up the most space.
4. Use an External Drive for Additional Storage
   If your internal storage is full, consider adding an external USB hard drive. Connect the drive to your PS4, format it for PS4 use if prompted, and then set it as extended storage. Moving or installing games on the external drive frees up internal space and helps your console run smoothly. Make sure the external drive has enough space and is compatible with PS4.

Regular maintenance like clearing cache and managing storage can prevent slowdowns and errors. Avoid cluttering your space with unplayed games and cache buildup. With these quick methods, your PS4 will stay optimized, ready for your next gaming session without hiccups.