Thinking about changing your PlayStation Network name? You’re not alone. Many gamers outgrow their original usernames or simply want a fresh online identity. You can change your PSN name directly from your PlayStation console by going to Settings > Users and Accounts > Account > Profile > Online ID, or through the PlayStation mobile app.
Changing your PSN name is relatively straightforward, but there are some important considerations before you make the switch. Your first name change is free, but subsequent changes will cost you. Also, not all games and applications fully support the name change feature, which could potentially lead to issues with your saved data or trophies.
Before taking the plunge, it’s worth backing up your game saves and understanding which of your favorite games might have compatibility issues. If you ever regret your decision, you can revert back to your original online ID by contacting PlayStation Support, as long as it doesn’t violate the Terms of Service.
How To Change Your PSN Name
Changing your PlayStation Network (PSN) name is easier than ever, whether you’re tired of your old username or simply want something fresh. Sony now allows users to change their PSN Online ID directly from a PlayStation console or a web browser. Here’s a step-by-step guide to updating your PSN name.
What You Need To Know Before Changing Your PSN Name
Before making any changes, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- First-time changes are free. After that, there’s a fee: $9.99 per change, or $4.99 if you’re a PlayStation Plus subscriber.
- Some older games may not support name changes, which could result in issues such as data loss or saved game problems.
- You can revert to your old ID at any time for free if you experience problems.
- Changes apply across PS4, PS5, and the web, but not on PS3 or PS Vita systems.
How To Change Your PSN Name on PS5
- Go to Settings on your PS5 home screen.
- Select Users and Accounts.
- Choose Account, then Profile, and select Online ID.
- Enter your new online ID and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Confirm your choice. If it’s your first time, it’s free. Otherwise, the system will prompt you for payment.
Once the change is made, your new PSN name will show up across the PlayStation Network.
How To Change Your PSN Name on PS4
- Navigate to Settings on the PS4 home screen.
- Scroll down and select Account Management.
- Choose Account Information, then Profile.
- Select Online ID.
- Enter a new ID of your choice. PlayStation will let you know if it’s available.
- Follow the prompts to finalize your new PSN name.
After completing the process, your new name appears in multiplayer games, your profile, and messages.
How To Change Your PSN Name Using a Web Browser
- Sign in to your account at PlayStation.com.
- Click your Profile picture in the upper right corner and select Account Settings.
- Under PSN Profile, select Edit next to your current Online ID.
- Type in your new Online ID and follow the instructions.
- Confirm your change. If you’ve changed it before, you’ll be charged accordingly.
This method works well if you’re not near your console but still want to update your PSN name.
What Happens After You Change Your PSN Name
- You may experience issues with older games that were released before April 1, 2018.
- Some games may still display your old Online ID.
- Your friends list, trophies, and saved data generally remain intact.
- You’ll have the option to display your old ID next to your new one for 30 days, which can help friends recognize you after the change.
Supported and Unsupported Games
Most PS4 and PS5 games support PSN name changes, especially newer titles. However, some games—especially older multiplayer games—may have issues like:
- Loss of in-game currency or progression.
- Saved game data not carrying over.
- Errors in gameplay or leaderboards.
Sony provides a list of games with known issues on their website. It’s recommended to check this list if you frequently play older games.
How Often Can You Change Your PSN Name?
There’s no limit to how often you can change your PSN name. Just remember:
- The first change is free.
- Additional changes cost $9.99, or $4.99 with PlayStation Plus.
- If you want to revert to a previous name, you can do so for free, but only if the old name wasn’t taken by someone else.
By following these steps, you can easily change your PSN name and give your PlayStation identity a fresh look.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your PSN name once for free through your console settings or the PlayStation app.
- Some games may have compatibility issues with your new name, potentially affecting saved data or trophies.
- You can always revert to your original name by contacting PlayStation Support if problems arise.
Understanding the Basics of PSN
PlayStation Network (PSN) is Sony’s online gaming service that connects PlayStation users around the world. It allows you to play games online, make digital purchases, and connect with friends.
Your PSN ID (also called Online ID) is your unique username that identifies you on the PlayStation Network. This is what other players see when you play online games or post messages.
When you first created your PlayStation account, you chose a PSN ID. Many players select their names quickly without much thought, only to regret their choice later.
Why your PSN ID matters:
- It represents you in the gaming community
- Friends need it to find and add you
- It appears in leaderboards and game lobbies
- It’s attached to your game trophies and achievements
Sony now allows you to change your PSN name if you’re unhappy with your current one. This feature was highly requested by PlayStation users for many years.
You can change your name through your PlayStation console, the PlayStation mobile app, or directly through the PlayStation Network website. The process is straightforward but comes with some important considerations.
Keep in mind that while changing your PSN ID is possible, there are potential impacts on your games and services that you should understand before proceeding.
Requirements for Changing Your PSN Online ID
Before changing your PSN name, you need to understand certain requirements and limitations. Not all PlayStation devices support this feature equally, and account types have different permissions.
Eligible Devices for Online ID Change
You can change your PSN name directly from your PS4 or through a web browser. PlayStation 4 offers the most straightforward method – simply navigate to Settings, select Account Management, then Account Information, Profile, and finally Online ID.
PS3 and PS Vita users cannot change their online ID directly from these devices. If you primarily use these older systems, you’ll need to use a web browser or borrow a PS4 to make the change.
Some games on older systems may not support the name change feature properly. Sony has tested numerous games to identify potential issues. Before changing your ID, check this list to avoid problems with your favorite games.
Remember that your first change is free, but subsequent changes will cost $9.99 ($4.99 for PlayStation Plus members).
Understanding the Role of Master and Sub Accounts
Only master accounts can change their PSN online ID. If you’re using a sub-account (now called a family member account), you won’t have this option available.
Master accounts are the primary accounts created by users aged 18 or older. These accounts have full control over their settings and can manage family member accounts linked to them.
Sub-accounts are created for users under 18 and have restrictions set by the master account holder. If you’re using a sub-account, you’ll need to wait until you turn 18, at which point you can convert to a master account.
When you change your online ID, the change applies across all linked PlayStation devices. Your friends will still see your activities, and your trophies will remain intact in most cases.
Be aware that some games may experience issues after an ID change. According to player experiences on Reddit, most people can change their ID without losing progress, but it’s always wise to research potential game-specific problems first.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Your PSN Online ID
Changing your PlayStation Network ID is a straightforward process that can be done through various platforms. You can make this change once for free, with additional changes costing a small fee.
Changing Online ID via Web Browser
To change your PSN name through a web browser, start by visiting the official PlayStation website and signing in to your account. Once logged in, navigate to the Account Settings section where you’ll find your profile information.
Look for the “PSN Profile” option and click on it. Next to your current Online ID, you’ll see an “Edit” button. Click this to begin the name change process.
Enter your desired new username in the provided field. The system will check if it’s available and display alternatives if it’s already taken.
Before confirming, PlayStation will show important information about possible issues with games and services after changing your ID. Read this carefully.
Confirm your selection and follow the payment instructions if this isn’t your first free change. You’ll receive an email confirmation once the change is complete.
Changing Online ID through PS4 Console
On your PS4, changing your PSN name is simple. From the home screen, navigate to the Settings menu.
Select “Account Management” and then “Account Information.” From there, choose “Profile” and then select “Online ID” from the options available.
The system will then prompt you to enter your new desired Online ID. Type your new name in the text box on screen. Similar to the web process, the system will check availability.
You’ll see a warning about potential issues with games and services. Some older games might not support the name change feature and could cause problems with saved data.
After reviewing the warnings, confirm your selection. If this is your first change, it’s free. Otherwise, you’ll need to complete the payment process before the change takes effect.
Changing Online ID on PS3 and PS Vita
For older PlayStation systems like PS3 and PS Vita, you cannot change your Online ID directly through these devices. Instead, you must use either the web browser method or a PS4/PS5 console.
Any changes made through these alternative methods will automatically apply to your PS3 and PS Vita systems when you sign in. However, be particularly careful if you frequently use these older systems.
The name change feature may cause more significant issues with older games and applications on these platforms. Some games might not display your new ID correctly, and others might experience problems with saved data or trophies.
If you encounter problems after changing your ID, PlayStation’s support site offers troubleshooting steps. In worst-case scenarios, you can revert to your original ID through PlayStation Support, though this may not fix all issues.
Potential Consequences of Changing Your Online ID
Changing your PSN name might seem like a simple update, but it can have several unexpected effects on your gaming experience. Sony has improved this process, but certain risks still exist, especially with older games.
Impact on Leaderboard Data and Trophies
When you change your PSN ID, leaderboard data may be affected in certain games. Your previous rankings might disappear or reset completely, particularly in older titles released before April 2018. This happens because these games weren’t designed with name changes in mind.
Trophy progress generally remains intact after a name change. Most of your earned trophies will transfer seamlessly to your new ID. However, some users have reported minor issues with trophy syncing immediately after changing their name.
To minimize problems, consider:
- Taking screenshots of important leaderboard positions
- Syncing your trophy data before changing your ID
- Waiting 24-48 hours after the change for systems to fully update
Effect on Game Progress and Purchases
Game progress is one area where you might experience significant issues. Some players have lost save data in certain titles, though this is relatively rare. PlayStation has identified specific games with known compatibility problems.
Virtual currency and add-ons are generally safe, but access may be disrupted in some cases. Content you’ve purchased should remain accessible, though you might need to restore licenses or redownload items.
Games most likely to have issues:
- PS3 titles
- Early PS4 games (pre-2018)
- PS Vita games
Most PS4 games released after April 2018 and virtually all PS5 games handle name changes correctly.
Issues with Linking Accounts and Shared Content
Account linking across platforms or services might require updates after changing your PSN ID. Third-party accounts connected to your PlayStation Network profile may need to be relinked or updated manually.
Shared content like screenshots, videos, or game clips associated with your previous ID might show your old name or experience accessibility issues. Content shared in communities or with friends could maintain your old ID in some instances.
Family sharing and console sharing settings generally remain intact, but it’s wise to verify these settings after changing your name. If you’ve shared digital content with family members, check that they can still access your shared library.
Remember that your first PSN name change is free, but subsequent changes will cost you a fee.
Precautions and Preparations Before Changing the Online ID
Changing your PSN name requires careful planning to avoid potential issues with games and saved data. Taking the right steps before making this change can protect your game progress and purchases.
Backing Up Your Data
Before changing your PSN online ID, it’s crucial to back up all your game data. This precaution helps protect your progress if complications arise during the name change process.
Connect an external USB drive to your PS4 and navigate to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Copy to USB Storage Device. Select all the games you want to back up.
For PlayStation Plus members, you can also upload your saves to cloud storage. This provides an additional safety net for your game progress.
Don’t forget to take screenshots of your trophy lists and game libraries. Some users report issues with trophies after changing their ID, so having visual records is helpful.
Make note of your purchase history and downloaded content, as some add-ons might require re-downloading after the change.
Checking Game Compatibility
Not all games work perfectly with the PSN name change feature. Sony has published a compatibility list that you should review before proceeding.
Games released after April 1, 2018 should fully support the name change feature, but older titles may experience issues. Some problems include:
- Lost access to purchased DLC or add-ons
- Lost game progress or saved data
- Hidden trophy information
- Leaderboard data disappearing
PS3 and PS Vita games are particularly problematic with name changes. If you actively play these platforms, consider the risks carefully.
Check the official PlayStation compatibility list on their website. Games are categorized as either “supported,” with no known issues, or “identified issues,” where problems have been reported.
After Changing Your Online ID
Once you’ve successfully changed your PSN name, there are important steps to ensure everything transitions smoothly. Some games may respond differently to your new online ID, and your friends will need to recognize your updated identity.
Verifying the Change Across Your Devices
Start by checking that your new online ID appears correctly on all your PlayStation devices. Sign in to your PS4, PS3, and PS Vita to confirm the change took effect properly. Some devices might require you to sign out and sign back in for the update to appear.
If you notice any issues like missing game progress or hidden trophies, don’t panic. Sony has tested many games with the ID change feature, but some titles may experience problems. For critical issues, you can revert to your previous ID through PlayStation Support within 30 days.
Check your PlayStation Plus subscription status to ensure your membership benefits continue without interruption. Some users report needing to restore licenses after changing their ID.
Updating Friends and Community
Let your friends know about your name change to avoid confusion. You might consider:
- Sending a quick message to your close gaming friends
- Posting an update in any PlayStation communities you’re active in
- Temporarily adding your old ID in parentheses in your profile bio
Remember that not all games support the ID change feature, and some friends might still see your old name in certain titles. This is especially true for older PS3 games or titles that haven’t been updated recently.
Keep in mind that your friends list will automatically update with your new ID. However, you might need to rejoin some game-specific communities or re-add friends in certain games that store your identity separately.
Additional Tips and Tricks for PSN Account Management
Beyond just changing your PSN name, there are several important aspects of account management that can enhance your PlayStation experience and keep your account secure. Properly managing your security settings and subscription details saves you time and money in the long run.
Securing Your Account with a Strong Password
Creating a strong password is your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Your PSN password should be unique and not used for any other online accounts you have.
A good password includes:
- At least 8 characters (longer is better)
- A mix of uppercase and lowercase letters
- Numbers and special characters
- No personal information like birthdays or names
Consider enabling two-factor authentication for your account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code sent to your phone when logging in from a new device.
Remember to change your password every few months. Never share your password with others, even friends or family members who might use your PlayStation.
Managing Your Subscriptions and Payments
PlayStation Plus and other subscriptions can be easily managed through your account settings. You can view active subscriptions, change payment methods, or cancel services you no longer use.
To manage your subscriptions:
- Go to Settings > Account Management > Account Information
- Select “PlayStation Subscriptions” to view your active services
- Choose the subscription you want to modify
Keep track of renewal dates to avoid unexpected charges. PlayStation Plus subscriptions often offer discounts for longer commitment periods (yearly vs. monthly).
You can add multiple payment methods to your account and set a default option. Credit cards, PayPal, and PlayStation gift cards are all valid payment options.
Consider adding funds to your PlayStation wallet instead of keeping a credit card on file if you’re concerned about security or want to limit spending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Changing your PlayStation Network name involves specific steps depending on your console, with potential impacts on your gaming experience. Here are the most common questions PlayStation users ask about the name change process.
How can I change my PSN name on PS5?
To change your PSN name on your PS5, start by going to the Settings menu from your home screen.
Select Users and Accounts, then Account, followed by Profile.
From there, select Online ID and enter your new desired username. Follow the prompts to complete the process, which may include verifying your identity for security purposes.
What are the steps to change my PSN name on PS4?
On PS4, you can change your online ID by navigating to Settings.
Select Account Management, then Account Information, followed by Profile, and finally Online ID.
Enter your desired new name when prompted, and follow the verification steps to confirm the change. Your first name change is free, but subsequent changes will incur a fee.
Will I experience any issues after changing my PSN name?
Sony has identified that some games may experience issues after changing your PSN name. These problems could range from minor to critical.
Minor issues might include your previous username still appearing in some places. Critical issues could involve lost game progress, trophy data, or purchased content.
Before changing your name, check Sony’s list of tested games to see if your favorite titles are fully compatible with the name change feature.
Will changing my PSN name affect my game progress across different titles?
Game progress impacts vary widely depending on the specific titles you play. Some games, especially those released after April 2018, should work perfectly with your new ID.
Older games may have issues recognizing your new identity, potentially affecting saves or online features. PlayStation has tested numerous games and categorized them based on compatibility.
If maintaining progress in specific games is crucial to you, check their compatibility status before proceeding with a name change.
How can I check if a PSN name is already in use before changing mine?
Unfortunately, there’s no official way to check PSN name availability before initiating the change process.
You’ll only discover if your desired name is available during the actual name change process. Have several alternative options ready in case your first choice is already taken.
The system will let you know immediately if your selected name is unavailable, allowing you to try a different option without finalizing any changes.
What happens to my old PSN name after I change it? Can it be claimed by someone else?
When you change your PSN name, your old ID becomes reserved to your account. This means no other user can claim or use your previous name.
If you experience issues with your new name, you can revert back to your original ID through the same settings menu. This option provides a safety net if you encounter compatibility problems.
Your original ID remains linked to your account indefinitely, even if you change your name multiple times.
