Eschewing its predecessor's design, the PS5 requires a base to stand vertically and lay horizontally. I noted in my PS5 review that people could run into issues with this. We've created a step-by-step to help walk you through setting up your PS5 base in whichever orientation you prefer. If you choose to stand it up vertically, just note that you'll need a screwdriver or similar object to help with the process.
Products used in this guide
- Next-gen: PS5 ($499 at Amazon)
- Secure the base: Craftsman flathead screwdriver ($7 at Amazon)
Note: The PS5 used in this guide is a standard PS5 with a disc drive, not the PS5 Digital Edition. Setting up the PS5 Digital Edition will require similar steps, but the shape of the base might vary slightly.
How to set up a PS5 vertically
- Take your PS5 and its accessories out of the box.
- Twist the base so that you reveal the included screw.Source: Jennifer Locke / Android Central
- Remove the included screw from the base.
- Lay your PS5 on its front and remove the screw cover on the bottom of the console.Source: Jennifer Locke / Android Central
- Attach the base below the power port, lining up the screw holes on the console and base.
- Tighten the screw with a flathead screwdriver or similar object.
- Carefully stand up your PS5 and you should be good to go!
How to set up a PS5 horizontally
- Lay your PS5 on its front.
- Make sure the screw compartment on the bottom of the base is closed. This changes the orientation of the base itself.Source: Jennifer Locke / Android Central
- Look at the back of the console and find where the DualSense button pattern is on the inside of its faceplate near the ports.
- Snap the base into place so that its hooks line up with the button pattern.Source: Jennifer Locke / Android Central
- Carefully place your console on your entertainment stand.
Because of the way the base attaches to the PS5, you'll need to pay attention to which orientation it's in. When the hidden screw compartment is open and revealed, you're ready to set it up vertically. When the compartment is closed, you can set it up horizontally. There is also a space for the screw cap you removed from the console in the base's compartment. If you haven't been able to buy a PS5 yet, you'll want to keep an eye out for stock.
Next-gen is finally here
You can buy a PS5 right now, and it's set to be Sony's most powerful console with a wicked fast SSD, 3.5GHz CPU, and 10.28 TFLOP GPU. This is the place to be for exclusives like Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Horizon Forbidden West, and a whole lot more. Just keep in mind you'll need a base (included in the box) to help you stand it up.
You can use a screwdriver or similarly-shaped object
It's less than ideal that the PS5 requires some extra steps to set up with its base, but it's the reality we have to deal with. Thankfully, the process is fairly easy and painless.
