If you ever need to replace the cord, you can use (some) old PlayStation cables or get a certified replacement.
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If you’ve ever unplugged your PS5 to move furniture or properly clean your entertainment center, you may have looked at the console’s power cord. After all, it is good to check the cables for signs of damage from time to time. This might lead you to consider picking up an extra cord as a backup, or maybe you want to plug your PS5 into another TV without moving the existing cable around all the time.
Turns out, not just any cable will do the trick when it’s time to plug in your PS5. Understanding your PS5’s power cord isn’t just a matter of curiosity, as it impacts the security and performance of your console. If you use the wrong one, you risk your PS5 not turning on and being a fire hazard.
The good news is that all PS5 models use a type of cable that’s already found in millions of homes, meaning replacements are easy to find. However, just because these cables are common does not mean they are safe to use without checking the specifications first. Let’s take a look at exactly what cord your PS5 needs and how it compares to previous PlayStation models, as well as where to get a replacement if your pets chew it up.
What are the specifications of the PS5 power cord?
The PS5 uses an IEC320 C7 power cord, also commonly known as a figure 8 cable due to the connector’s resemblance to the number. The cord supports a voltage range of 100-240V at 50/60Hz, making it compatible with most countries’ electrical standards, provided you pair it with the appropriate regional outlet.
One detail to note about the PS5 cable is that the C7 connector is non-polarized. This means it has two identical round pins, so there is no wrong way to insert it. In comparison, polarized plugs have slightly different sized pins that fit only one way for a reason. These ensure that the hot and neutral wires in your wall connect correctly to the device. If a polarized plug were theoretically connected backwards, metal parts could remain hot even when the appliance is turned off, and turning off a wall switch would not cut off power to the appliance.
The cord should ideally be constructed with 18 AWG copper. The PS5 typically draws between 200 and 220 watts during peak charging, which translates to a current draw of less than 2 amps at standard voltage. This means the cord doesn’t need extreme power specs, but it still needs to meet sustained gaming demands safely.
How does the PS5 cord compare to older PlayStation consoles?
If you’ve been a PlayStation gamer for a while, you probably have some old PlayStation cords in your old cable drawer. A nice touch is that you can actually reuse your old PS4 or PS3 Slim cables, as Sony has used the exact same figure-8 C7 design for these models.
Sony’s reliance on the standard C7 cable is great because it’s the same cord used on many home appliances, from TVs and printers to soundbars. Finding a replacement is easy, but its ubiquity comes with one problem: you still need to make sure any replacement cable meets the PS5’s power demands. A lightweight C7 cable designed for a low-power device may use thinner gauge wire, which is not ideal for the PS5.
Where to find a replacement power cord for PS5?
If you’ve lost your PS5 power cable during a move or it’s damaged, your safest bet is to get a replacement from an authorized retailer. Sony’s official AC power cord is designed specifically for the console and ships with the PS5, alongside all its official accessories like an HDMI 2.1 cable and the (sometimes short-lived) DualSense controller.
While there is no official replacement to purchase directly from Sony at the moment, reputable third-party manufacturers produce certified C7 cables designed for PS5 compatibility. When shopping, be sure to look for cables with recognized safety certifications such as UL Listing, CE Approval, or TUV Certification. These are not just badges, but rather indicators that the cables have undergone electrical safety testing. In addition to these certifications, look for the specifications discussed previously: 18 AWG copper wire, a non-polarized connector, and a 100-240 V rating with a current capacity of 10 A.
This TPLTECH cord is a well-reviewed replacement, with many reviewers saying it works with their PS5. It is also available in several lengths.
