Yes, all versions of the PS4 can play Blu-ray discs, but not if they're 4K here's what you need

July 2024 · 3 minute read

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One of the benefits of the PlayStation 4 is its ability to play not only games, but DVDs and Blu-rays as well. 

But while every PS4 can play Blu-rays, they can't play every Blu-ray. Here's the lowdown on PlayStation 4's Blu-ray compatibility, and how to play Blu-rays on your PS4.

The PlayStation 4 can play HD and 3D Blu-rays, but not 4K UHD

Both the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 4 Pro play HD and 3D Blu-ray discs. These discs go up to 1080p, which is the standard for most devices.

However, although the PS4 Pro can play games and stream media in 4K, neither PS4 model supports 4K UHD Blu-rays. These offer substantially higher quality video and audio compared to a standard Blu-ray, but also require a specialized Blu-ray drive that the PS4 doesn't have.

The PS4 Pro can play and stream in 4K, but 4K Blu-rays are a no-go. Rainer Jensen/picture alliance via Getty Images

The new PlayStation 5 Standard Edition is not only Blu-ray compatible, but can play 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays as well. The Digital Edition doesn't have a disc drive, so it can't play any Blu-ray discs.

How to play Blu-rays on your PS4

Now that you have an idea of whether or not your model of PS4 can handle Blu-ray discs, here's how to play Blu-rays on your PS4.

Quick note: Before you play any Blu-rays, make sure that your PS4 is fully updated.

You'll also need to be connected to the internet the first time you play most Blu-ray discs, so you can bypass their copyright protection.

  • Insert the Blu-ray disc into the PS4's disk drive. If there's already a DVD or game disc in your PS4's disk drive, press the small black button next to the PS4's power button to eject it beforehand.

    Blu-ray discs slide into the PS4's disk drive just like DVDs and games do. Chrissy Montelli/Insider

  • On your PS4's main menu, a new option will appear. It will either be called "Blu-ray Disc" or have the same name as the Blu-ray you just inserted. Using the PS4 controller, select this option and press the X button to start playing the Blu-ray.

    Once you've inserted the Blu-ray disc, it will appear as an option in the PS4's main menu. Chrissy Montelli/Insider

  • Once you've started playing the Blu-ray, you can control it — play or pause, fast-forward or rewind, etc. — using your controller.
    • Sony PlayStation 4 Pro Shop at Amazon External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." Shop at GameStop External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." Chrissy Montelli Chrissy Montelli is a writer and content creator originally from Long Island, NY. She is the author of two poetry chapbooks, Heart Float (Bottlecap Press) and Going to Ithaca (Ghost City Press), as well as various online publications. Read more from her at chrissymontelli.wordpress.com. Read more Read less

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