What are the differences between each PS Plus level?
PS Plus is PlayStation’s subscription service that provides additional benefits to players beyond just online play. There are three different subscription tiers, each with more advantages and included services: Essential, Extra and Premium.
Each tier is designed for a different type of player, from those who just want online access to those who seek a large library and classic content.
PS Plus Essential
PS Plus Essential is the basic tier, offering the core benefits for any player:
- Online multiplayer: allows you to play online with others in multiplayer games
- Monthly free games: games you can download each month as long as the subscription is active
- Exclusive discounts: special deals in the digital store
- Cloud storage: save your game progress in the cloud to access from any console
This tier is ideal if you simply want to play online and get some free games each month without additional extras.
PS Plus Extra
PS Plus Extra includes all the benefits of Essential and adds a downloadable game library:
- Access to hundreds of current and older games: an extensive selection of titles to download and play while your subscription is active
- Games from both PS4 and PS5 ranging from classics to newer hits
This tier is perfect for players who want a big library of games without buying each one separately, allowing exploration of many titles without extra purchases.
PS Plus Premium
PS Plus Premium is the most complete tier and adds even more advantages:
- Access to classic games from previous generations: titles from older PlayStation consoles like PS1, PS2, PSP and more
- Timed game trials: limited-time trials of select new games
- Cloud streaming for games: play certain titles without downloading them via the cloud
- Includes everything from Essential and Extra
This tier is designed for those who want the full PlayStation ecosystem: online play, an extensive library, nostalgic classics and flexible ways to play across devices.
Quick tier comparison
- Essential: online play, monthly free games, discounts and cloud saves
- Extra: all of Essential + downloadable PS4 and PS5 game library
- Premium: all of the above + classic games, timed trials and cloud streaming
Which tier should you choose based on how you play?
- Casual online play: Essential is usually enough
- Want to play many games without buying each one: Extra offers an attractive library
- Interested in classics and maximum flexibility: Premium is the most complete option
Each tier is designed for different needs, so the right choice depends on your play style, available time and how much extra content you want.
