Should your PS5 be vertical or horizontal?

One of the biggest debates with the PS5 is whether or not you should store the console vertically or horizontally. We have the low down on the best way to store your PlayStation console.

The PlayStation 5 is an enormous console, but not everyone has the space to accommodate such a ginormous piece of tech. The first version of the PS5 weighed a whole 4.5kg, and although subsequent versions of the console have taken that down a little, that’s still a lot of PS5 to make space for.

At launch, Sony marketed the PS5 as being able to function both vertically and horizontally. This offered up more opportunities for fans to incorporate the white beast of a console into their setups, especially if they were limited in space. However, reports of technical faults when stored vertically brought up the vertical vs horizontal debate.

With that in mind, owners of the current-gen console have been plagued with one big question: should the PS5 be positioned vertically or horizontally?

Contents

• Is it better to have the PS5 vertical or horizontal?
• Does the PS5 overheat when horizontal?
• How to stand the PS5 vertically
• What are the dimensions of the PS5?
• Conclusion: It’s a matter of choice

Is it better to have the PS5 vertical or horizontal?

Officially, Sony states that all models of the PS5 can be stored in the vertical or horizontal position. The original launch model came packaged with a base stand that can be used to store the console in both positions. While an official vertical stand is also available to purchase if you own the PS5 Slim or Pro models.

Last year, Dexerto reported that users were having to fix multiple units that had been allegedly damaged through extended use while standing vertically. During that time they were concerned about the the liquid metal Sony integrated into the console, spilling into and damaging the internals.

Does the PS5 overheat when horizontal?

With the PS5 essentially similarly built to that of a gaming PC, ensuring your console is being cooled efficiently is a valid concern. Luckily, the airflow for the PS5 flows out the back of the console, so whether it’s stored vertically or horizontally, this won’t be an issue.

However, we do recommend giving your PS5 ample room away from other consoles, or devices, to ensure it can ventilate properly.

How to stand the PS5 vertically

The launch disc and digital-only models of the PS5 came packed with a stand that allows you to stand your PS5 either vertically or horizontally. The stand is easily attached, by using the accompanying screw found hidden in a small compartment on the stand itself.

By turning the PS5 on its side to reveal the underside of the console, a small hidden screw cap can be removed, to allow the stand to be attached. After it’s securely tightened, you can safely place the PS5 vertically, allowing you to save space and store your Sony console in an upright position.

While the stand came packaged alongside the launch PS5, If you own the PS5 Slim, you will have to purchase a stand separately.

The official vertical stand for PS5 consoles costs approximately $29.99 and can be purchased from respected retailers or directly from the PlayStation US website. This version of the stand features a new design and is compatible with the PS5 CFI-1000 models and PS5 CFI-2000 console models.

What are the dimensions of the PS5?

Deciding whether or not to store your PS5 vertically or horizontally can come down to how much space you have to spare for the Sony console. The PS5 is one of the biggest current-gen consoles available, and not everyone has furniture up to the task.

Knowing the dimensions of each version of the PS5 can be a determining factor in how you plan to store the console. It’s worth knowing that some furniture intended for console use will include the sizing of the PS5, and other consoles, to make any storage options easier.

• PS5 Disc Edition dimensions: 390mm x 104mm x 260mm
• PS5 Digital Edition dimensions: 390mm x 92mm x 260mm
• PS5 Slim dimensions:  358mm × 96mm × 216mm
• PS5 Slim Digital Edition dimensions: 358mm × 80mm × 216mm

It’s just a matter of choice

The PS5 is designed to be supported in both the vertical and horizontal positions. Whether or not you want to stand the PS5 vertically or horizontally comes down to preference, and how much space you want to spare for your PlayStation console.

While some experts still believe there exists a problem with storing the PS5 vertically, Sony still adamantly sells a vertical stand for those who want the option.

If you want to take the supposed risk of standing your PS5 vertically is entirely up to you. However, if you want to be on be safe side and store it horizontally, be prepared to make some room.