The PlayStation Network (PSN) username, also known as your Online ID, is the identity you use to interact with the PlayStation community. Over time, you might want to change it for various reasons—whether to refresh your online persona, fix a typo, or just try something new.
A common question many users ask is: Can I change my PSN name for free?
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything about changing your PSN name, including whether it’s free, the steps involved, restrictions, and potential risks. Understanding Sony’s policies will help you make an informed decision and avoid surprises.
What Is a PSN Name (Online ID)?
Your PSN name, or Online ID, is the username that appears to others when you play games, chat, or participate in PlayStation communities. It is unique to you and serves as your digital identity on PlayStation consoles and services.
When you first create a PSN account, you pick an Online ID. Historically, this ID was permanent and could not be changed.
However, Sony has since introduced options to modify it under certain conditions.
Can You Change Your PSN Name for Free?
The short answer is: Yes, but only once. Sony allows you to change your PSN Online ID for free one time.
After that, any subsequent changes will incur a fee.
“Your first PSN Online ID change is free. After that, each change costs $9.99 USD or $4.99 USD for PlayStation Plus subscribers.”
This free name change option was introduced in April 2019. Prior to that, it was impossible to modify your Online ID once set.
Sony recognized the need to offer flexibility but also wanted to discourage frequent changes.
Summary of PSN Name Change Pricing
| Number of Changes | Cost Without PlayStation Plus | Cost With PlayStation Plus |
|---|---|---|
| First Change | Free | Free |
| Second and Subsequent Changes | $9.99 USD | $4.99 USD |
How to Change Your PSN Name
Changing your PSN name is a straightforward process, but it requires you to follow specific steps. You can do it via a web browser, PlayStation 4, or PlayStation 5 console.
Steps via Web Browser
- Log in to your PlayStation Network account.
- Navigate to your profile by clicking your avatar in the top-right corner.
- Click on your current Online ID and select Edit.
- Enter your new desired Online ID and check its availability.
- Confirm the change and follow the prompts to complete the process.
Steps via PlayStation 4
- Go to Settings.
- Select Account Management, then Account Information.
- Choose Profile and then Online ID.
- Enter your new Online ID and check if it’s available.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the change.
Steps via PlayStation 5
- Open the Settings menu from the home screen.
- Select Users and Accounts, then Account.
- Choose Profile and then Online ID.
- Type your new Online ID and verify availability.
- Confirm the change by following the instructions.
Note: You can only change your Online ID if your account is in good standing and you have a valid payment method linked if applicable.
Important Considerations Before Changing Your PSN Name
Changing your PSN name is exciting, but there are several important factors to keep in mind to avoid complications.
Compatibility with Games and Content
Some older games and content might not fully support Online ID changes. This can lead to issues such as loss of progress, leaderboard stats, or in-game purchases tied to your old ID.
Sony provides a list of tested games for compatibility on their official website. It’s wise to check whether your favorite games have full support for the change before proceeding.
Display of Previous Online IDs
After changing your ID, your old ID might be displayed next to your new one for 30 days. This helps friends recognize you after the change.
After this period, the old ID is removed from public display but may still exist in system logs.
Profile and Friends
Your friends list, trophies, and messages will remain intact after the change. However, some games may treat your new ID as a new player, affecting multiplayer stats or saved data.
Potential Risks and Issues
While changing your PSN name is generally safe, it’s essential to understand potential risks:
- Game Data Loss: Some games may not recognize the new ID, causing loss of access to saved data or in-game purchases.
- Online Multiplayer Issues: Multiplayer progress or leaderboards may reset or not sync correctly.
- Third-Party Services: Linked accounts or external services might not update automatically with your new ID.
- Cost for Multiple Changes: After your first free change, fees apply for each additional change.
“Sony recommends testing your new Online ID with your most-used games before committing to the change.”
How to Avoid Problems When Changing Your PSN Name
To minimize issues, consider the following tips:
- Check the compatibility of your most-played games via the official Sony compatibility list.
- Test your new Online ID with these games before fully committing.
- Inform your friends about the change to avoid confusion.
- Keep track of your old Online ID for reference during the 30-day transition period.
- Backup any important game data where possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the first PSN name change really free? | Yes, the first change of your Online ID is completely free regardless of PlayStation Plus subscription status. |
| Can I revert to my old PSN name? | Yes, you can revert to any previous Online ID for free at any time. |
| Will my trophies be affected by changing my Online ID? | No, your trophies and progress remain intact after changing your Online ID. |
| Does changing my PSN name affect my friends list? | No, your friends list and messages remain unchanged. |
| Can I change my PSN name on a mobile device? | Yes, through the PlayStation app or a mobile web browser you can change your Online ID. |
| What if my new name is unavailable? | You need to choose a unique Online ID that is not already taken by another user. |
| Are there any restrictions on the new Online ID? | Yes, your new ID must meet PlayStation’s community standards and cannot contain inappropriate content. |
Conclusion
Changing your PSN name can be a refreshing way to redefine your online identity. Sony does allow a free first change, which makes it convenient for users who want to fix typos or try a new name without extra cost.
However, subsequent changes come at a price, and there are certain risks regarding game compatibility and data integrity. By understanding these factors and following best practices, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new Online ID.
Before making the change, consider your favorite games, notify your friends, and verify the availability of your desired Online ID. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a fresh start in the PlayStation community.
