Engadget: PS5 Uses IEC320 C7 Power Cord, Older PS4 and PS3 Slim Cables Can Work
PS5 uses an IEC320 C7 figure-8 cord rated 100-240V at 50/60Hz, Engadget says; older PS4 or PS3 Slim cables may work.
Engadget said the PS5's C7 connector is non-polarized, meaning it has two identical round pins and can be inserted either way. By contrast, polarized plugs have prongs of slightly different sizes so they fit only one way, ensuring hot and neutral wires connect properly. If such a plug were connected backward, metal parts could remain hot even when a device is off, and a wall switch would not cut power.
For safe operation, Engadget reported that the cord should ideally use 18 AWG copper wire. The PS5 typically draws between 200 and 220 watts during peak load, which translates to a current draw of less than 2 amps at standard voltage. That means the cord does not require extreme power specifications, but it still needs to handle sustained gaming demands safely. Using the wrong cable can risk the console not turning on or creating a fire hazard, Engadget said.
The guide noted that owners of older PlayStation consoles may already have a compatible cable. Sony used the same C7 figure-8 design for the PS4 and PS3 Slim, so Engadget said those cables can be reused. The standard C7 cable is also used by many other household devices, including TVs, printers and soundbars. Engadget cautioned that this ubiquity comes with a catch: a lightweight C7 cable designed for a low-power device might use thinner gauge wire that is not ideal for the PS5.
If the original PS5 power cable is lost, damaged or chewed by pets, Engadget said the safest option 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, along with official accessories such as an HDMI 2.1 cable and a DualSense controller. At the moment, there is no official replacement sold directly by Sony, according to the report.
Engadget said reputable third-party manufacturers produce certified C7 cables designed for PS5 compatibility. When buying one, users should look for recognized safety certifications such as UL listing, CE approval or TUV certification. These certifications indicate that the cables have undergone electrical safety testing, the guide said. Buyers should also check for 18 AWG copper wire, a non-polarized connector, and a rating of 100-240V with 10A current capacity.
Engadget also pointed to a TPLTECH cord as a well-reviewed replacement, with many reviewers saying it works with their PS5. The cord is available in multiple lengths, according to the report.