PS5 Does Not Recognize USB Error - How To Fix 'This USB Drive's File System is Unsupported' Error Message

Have no idea how to fix the PS5 does not recognize USB error? We've got you covered!

While in theory, a USB drive is compatible with the PS5, users have been running into USB errors. When a PS5 does not recognize USB devices, there's an error message that states, "This USB Drive's File System is unsupported".

There are myriad reasons why people may be using a USB drive: transferring data, extended storage, downloading screenshots, software updates, or even using it before doing a system wipe. But this error makes all of these things impossible.

But, with a bit of know-how, and some elbow grease, this problem is not as insurmountable as it may first appear. Read on, for an explanation of how to fix a USB error message on your PlayStation 5.

How To Fix PS5 Does Not Recognize USB Error

Fortunately, a USB error doesn't necessarily mean that something is fundamentally broken, unlike our political system. If your PS5 does not recognize USB devices, it's usually a case of a mismatch between the file formats of the PS5 and the USB, which render them incompatible.

In order to get your USB drive to speak to your PS5 properly, you need to make sure it is formatted to exFAT or FAT32. FAT32 can restrict file sizes, so in most cases, exFAT would be the more suitable option. Reformatting your USB drive will wipe any data that's already on there, so be sure to back up anything you don't want to lose before getting started. We'll wait.

All done? Good. To reformat your USB via a PC, complete the following steps:

• Connect the device to your computer, and open File Explorer.
• Find your USB drive, right-click on it, and select Format.
• Under File system, select exFAT.
• Tick the box marked Quick Format.
• Press Start.

Then wait for the magic to happen. The larger your USB drive, the longer this process can take. But once it is complete, your USB should be ready to communicate with your PS5, and the USB error message will be a thing of the past.

Read More: PS5 Mic Not Working: How To Fix PS5 Voice Chat Issues

Using A USB For Extended Storage On PS5

It is possible to use a USB drive to extend your storage capacity on your PS5. But any old thing just won't do. There are some minimum requirements to note:

• SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps or later.
• 250 GB minimum, 8 TB maximum capacity.

It's also worth noting that not all devices are guaranteed to work with the console, you can't connect through a USB hub, and you can only use one external storage device at a time. You can then use this drive to store PS5 games. But it's worth noting that, should you wish to play those games, you would need to transfer them back to the console SSD first. This is quicker than re-downloading a game though.

If you need to format your USB for use as extended storage, Sony advises the following:

• Connect your USB drive to a USB port on the back of your PS5 console.
• Go to Settings > Storage.
• Select USB Extended Storage > Format as USB Extended Storage.

Make sure you don't disconnect the drive or turn off your console during the formatting process. This could cause data loss, corrupt your USB drive, or damage your USB or PS5. But once it's formatted, you are good to go.