Why is my PS5 lagging?

How to stop lag on PS5

Is your PS5 gaming experience being hindered by mysterious lag? Maybe you’re annoyed with slow downloads — but when you use another device all is seemingly fine.

Lag has a real impact on gaming experiences. Let’s dive into the reasons behind lag on your PS5 console, why it's more than just an inconvenience, and how you can address it.

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Causes of lagging in games

We’ll uncover the secrets behind a smoother, lag-free gaming experience — something our customers love — particularly on our 3 Gbps package.

Lag on your PS5 or other gaming consoles can be a real hassle, and similar issues are experienced by Xbox users too. 

These common causes are often lurking in the background, just waiting to spoil your gaming fun:

• Internet connection issues: Whether it's a slow or unstable internet connection, high ping, or latency, these connection problems can lead to frustrating lag. 

• Server problems: Game servers, especially in peak hours, can get huge traffic, causing issues. It can also increase latency if the servers are far from your region.

• Hardware limitations: Overheating due to poor cooling from old or malfunctioning components can slow down a PS5. Overheated consoles often lead to lag issues.

• Software or firmware bugs: Game glitches or console firmware issues are often the reason behind sudden lags or crashes during your gaming sessions.

• Background applications: Running resource-intensive applications or downloads in the background while gaming can misdirect vital bandwidth from your game.

• Network congestion: If multiple devices or users are hogging the network and stretching bandwidth to its limit, this can lead to congestion and subsequently, a lag in your gaming experience.

• External interference: Nearby devices, signal blocks, or obstructions can interfere with your WiFi signal or even the wireless controller's connectivity—resulting in lag.

• Insufficient storage space: Lack of space on the PS5 can hinder performance. It's essential to have enough storage for your games to run smoothly.

• Controller problems: Input lag or connectivity issues with your controller can result in delayed or unresponsive gameplay.

• External factors: Sometimes, it's beyond your control, like weather conditions affecting your internet or power supply, which can lead to laggy gameplay.

If it’s an internet connection issue you might be on the wrong package, see our page on the best broadband for one person and the best broadband for families for more help.

We provide the fastest speeds at unbeatable prices on many of our residential packages, so we’re used to helping gamers get the experience they crave.

How to fix PS5 lag issues

In the next section, we'll provide some solutions to help you address these PS5 lag issues and get back to gaming without interruptions.

Full fibre broadband is the best option to ensure lag is never due to your internet —with a Fibre to the Home (FTTH) connection. Learn the difference between FTTC and FTTH.

Method 1: Reset your router

What it does: Resetting your WiFi router can resolve connectivity issues, eliminate potential glitches, and refresh your internet connection.

How to do it:

• Unplug your router's power cable

• Wait for about 10—15 seconds

• Plug the power cable back in

• Wait for your router to fully restart

Method 2: Check cable connections

What it does: Ensuring all your cables are properly connected can prevent any interruptions in your internet or console connection.

How to do it: Check that all cables, such as ethernet or HDMI, are securely connected to your console and TV. Make sure your ethernet cable is free of any visible damage or wear.

Method 3: Reboot your PS5

What it does: Rebooting your console can clear temporary issues, free up system resources, and resolve minor performance problems.

How to do it: Press and hold the power button on your PS5 until you hear the second beep (about 7 seconds). Your PS5 will turn off. Wait for a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.

Method 4: Disconnect other devices from your internet

What it does: Disconnecting other devices can ensure your PS5 gets a bigger slice of your internet bandwidth.

How to do it: Access your router settings through a web browser. Find the section to manage connected devices. Disconnect devices that are not currently in use or are less critical for your gaming experience.

Method 5: Use an ethernet cable

What it does: Switching to an ethernet cable connection can provide a more stable and faster internet connection compared to WiFi.

How to do it: Connect an ethernet cable to your PS5 and plug it into your router or modem.

Method 6: Delete unnecessary games, apps, and files

What it does: Free up storage space on your PS5 to improve overall performance.

How to do it:

• Go to the PS5's home screen

• Navigate to "Settings" > "Storage"

• Select and delete games, apps, or files you no longer need

Method 7: Download or play one game at a time

What it does: Prioritising one download or game at a time can allocate more bandwidth to the current activity, ensuring a smoother experience.

How to do it:

• Pause any ongoing downloads on your PS5

• Resume or initiate downloads one at a time

Method 8: Update your PS5 software

What it does: Keeping your PS5 software up to date can resolve bugs, enhance performance, and ensure you're running the latest features properly.

How to do it:

• Navigate to "Settings" > "System" > "System Software" > "System Software Update and Settings"

• Check for updates and follow the on-screen instructions

Method 9: Upgrade your internet package

What it does: Upgrading to a faster internet package can provide the necessary speed and bandwidth for lag-free gaming.

How to do it: Use our speed test tool to check your current internet speed.

If you live in London, check your postcode to confirm Community Fibre broadband is available in your area and contact us to discuss available upgrade options.

FAQs about PS5 lag

Why is my PS5 lagging so bad?

Severe lag on your PS5 can be caused by various factors, such as a slow or unstable internet connection, issues with game servers, hardware limitations, software bugs, or background applications consuming network resources.

Why is my PlayStation lagging with good internet?

Even with a good internet connection, other factors can contribute to lag on your PS5. Issues with game servers, hardware limitations, or problems specific to the game you're playing can all result in lag.

Can dust in my PS5 cause lag?

Dust inside your PS5 can cause overheating, potentially leading to performance issues. While not directly causing lag, overheating can result in a less responsive console. Keeping your PS5 clean and well-ventilated is essential for optimal performance.

Lagging games and downloads explained

Lag can be frustrating, but with the right steps, you can enjoy seamless gaming and faster downloads. 

Remember, a high-performance network is key to enjoying lag-free gaming. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your PS5 performs at its best.

Our customers include many casual and hardcore gamers, who all get the best experience from our fast, reliable residential broadband packages.

If you've successfully addressed latency issues or upgraded your connection, you're now well on your way to a smoother gaming experience on the latest online games.