There's nothing worse than being deep in a Monster Hunter Wilds boss battle only for your PS5 to suddenly shut down with the dreaded message: “Your PS5 is too hot.” Modern consoles like the PS5 are engineered with built-in cooling systems, but even they can struggle under the pressure of long, graphically intense gaming sessions.
If you want to avoid overheating issues and keep your system in peak condition, here are five effective ways to keep your PS5 cool.
1. Use a PS5 Cooling Fan (Cooler)
One of the most effective solutions is to invest in a dedicated PS5 cooler. These external cooling fans are designed specifically for the console and help improve airflow by actively drawing out hot air. A good PS5 cooler not only reduces internal temperature but can also extend the life of your system—especially if you're gaming for hours at a time, just like the SCRY Artic Coolers for your PS5 Pro, Slim and regular.
2. Keep It on a Hard, Clean Surface
Avoid placing your PS5 on soft surfaces like carpets, beds, or rugs. These materials can block airflow and cause dust to build up quickly. Instead, place your console on a flat, hard surface like a desk or shelf and make sure to use the stand that comes with it. This ensures enough space for air circulation beneath the console.
3. Store It in a Ventilated Area
Airflow is key. Never tuck your PS5 away inside a cabinet or tight shelf space. The system needs room to breathe. Keep it at least 10cm away from walls or obstructions to allow cool air in and hot air out. An open, breezy space helps maintain a stable operating temperature.
4. Upgrade with an SSD Heatsink
If you’ve expanded your PS5 storage with an internal SSD, make sure it includes a heatsink. Sony recommends this for a reason as heatsinks help dissipate heat from the drive and prevent it from affecting overall system performance. A solid option is the SCRY Nitro Flash Heatsink SSD, which comes with a built-in heatsink and enhances both speed and cooling. If you have an SSD lying around, you can upgrade your current SSD with the Heatsink cover.
5. Clean Dust Out Regularly
Over time, dust will accumulate in your PS5's vents, restricting airflow. To prevent this, clean your console regularly using a low-powered vacuum or air duster. Sony even provides designated ports that make it easy to clean without opening the entire unit. Keeping those vents clear will go a long way in keeping temperatures low.
Your console will usually give you a heads-up if things are heating up, loud fan noises, graphical glitches, and performance dips are all signs of potential overheating. If you get the message that your PS5 is too hot, shut it down immediately and give it time to cool off.
Don’t let heat take the fun out of your gaming. With the right setup and a few proactive steps including using a reliable PS5 cooler, you can keep your console running smoothly and avoid interruptions. Stay cool, stay in the game, and keep those wins coming.
