The PS5 box contains one console, one controller, a power cable, an HDMI cable, and a USB cable

When you open a new PlayStation 5, you get the console itself, one DualSense wireless controller, a power cable, an HDMI 2.1 cable, one USB-C to USB-A cable, and printed documentation. That is the complete contents. Sony does not include a game, a second controller, or a headset, so you will need to buy those separately if you want them.

The console comes in two versions — the standard edition with a disc drive, and the Digital Edition without one. Both boxes hold the same accessories. The only difference is whether the console itself can read physical game discs.

Key Takeaways

  • The PS5 box includes one controller, one power cable, one HDMI cable, and one USB cable — nothing else.
  • No game comes in the box, so you will need to purchase or read one before you can play.
  • If you want a second controller or a headset, you must buy those separately.
  • The standard PS5 plays both disc and digital games; the Digital Edition plays only digital games.
  • The HDMI cable included supports the PS5's 4K and high refresh rate output without needing an upgrade.

What the DualSense Controller Can Do

The single controller that comes with the PS5 has built-in haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. Haptic feedback means the controller vibrates in precise patterns that match what is happening in the game — you feel the difference between walking on sand and walking on concrete. Adaptive triggers mean the buttons resist your finger pressure in ways that match the game action, so pulling a bow string feels like actual resistance.

The controller charges via USB-C. The cable included in the box is USB-C to USB-A, which means you can plug it into any standard USB port on a computer, wall charger, or the PS5 itself. The controller holds a charge for roughly 12 hours of play time, depending on which games you run and whether haptic feedback is turned on.

The Cables and What They Do

The power cable connects the PS5 to a wall outlet. It is a standard three-prong cable, the same type used on many appliances. The HDMI cable connects the console to your television or monitor. This cable supports 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second, which is the PS5's maximum output — you do not need to buy a different HDMI cable to get the best picture.

The USB cable charges the DualSense controller and can also transfer data if you connect the PS5 to a computer. If you want to charge the controller while playing, you can plug it into the USB port on the front of the console or use any other USB power source.

What You Will Need to Buy Separately

Games do not come in the box. You can buy physical discs if you have the standard PS5, or read digital games from the PlayStation Store on either version. Many people buy a second DualSense controller right away so two people can play together — the console supports up to four controllers at once.

A headset is not included. If you want to hear game audio through headphones or talk to other players online, you will need to buy a headset separately. The PS5 works with most USB headsets and wireless headsets that use a USB dongle, as well as headsets that connect via the 3.5mm jack on the DualSense controller.

Storage is worth considering early. The PS5 comes with 825 gigabytes of internal storage, but the console reserves about 110 gigabytes for its system software, leaving roughly 715 gigabytes for games. Large games can take 100 to 150 gigabytes each, so you may want to buy an external SSD (solid state drive) within the first few months of ownership.

The Two Console Versions and Their Differences

The standard PS5 has a disc drive built in. You can buy physical game discs, insert them into the console, and play. You can also read games digitally. This version costs more than the Digital Edition.

The PS5 Digital Edition has no disc drive. You can only read games from the PlayStation Store or stream them through PlayStation Plus. You cannot play physical discs or trade games with friends. This version costs less, but you lose the option to buy used games or borrow discs from others.

Both versions play the same games and have the same processing power. The choice comes down to whether you want the flexibility of physical discs or prefer to save money and space.

Setting Up Your PS5 for the First Time

When you first turn on the PS5, you will be asked to connect to the internet, sign in with a PlayStation Network account, and update the system software. This takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on your internet speed. You will need a PlayStation Network account to play online games or read from the store, though you can create one for free.

The console will ask whether you want to transfer data from an older PlayStation console if you have one. If you do, you can move your saved games, settings, and digital game library to the PS5. If not, you can skip this step and start fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy a new HDMI cable for my TV?

No. The HDMI cable included with the PS5 supports 4K at 120 frames per second, which is the console's maximum output. Your existing TV cable will work if you already have one, though the included cable is the right choice for the PS5's full capability.

Can I use the PS5 without buying a second controller?

Yes. One person can play alone with the single controller that comes in the box. If you want two or more people to play together, you will need to buy additional controllers. The console supports up to four controllers at once.

What happens if I lose the USB cable that came with the PS5?

You can replace it with any USB-C to USB-A cable. These are inexpensive and widely available. You can also charge the DualSense controller by plugging it into the USB port on the front of the PS5 console itself.

Is there a game included so I can start playing right away?

No game comes in the box. You will need to buy or read a game before you can play. The PlayStation Store has both free games and paid games. Some games are included free with a PlayStation Plus subscription.

Do I need PlayStation Plus to use the PS5?

You do not need it to play single-player games or read from the store. You do need an active subscription to play online multiplayer games or to claim the free games offered each month through PlayStation Plus.