How to stop your PS5 from turning on with your TV
We’ve all been there: You settle in for a quiet night of Netflix, you turn on your TV, and suddenly your PlayStation 5 springs to life, switching your input and demanding your attention. This happens because of HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control). On the PS5, this system is called HDMI Device Link.
While it was designed to make your home theater feel smart, it often leads to devices turning on or off when you don't want them to. You have several ways to fix this, ranging from a total communication blackout to fine-tuning specific behaviors.
Is your PS5 being a ghost in the machine?
- Does your PS5 boot up every time you turn on your TV?
- Does your PS5 shut down automatically when you turn off the TV?
- Are you tired of the TV automatically switching inputs to the PS5?
- Do you want to keep the console off unless you actually press the PS button?
Let’s dive into the settings and fix that communication breakdown.
Method 1: Disable HDMI Device Link
Use this method if you want to completely sever the power communication between your TV and your PS5. This ensures the console never turns on or off based on what your TV is doing.
- From the PS5 home screen, go to Settings (the gear icon).
- Open System.
- Select HDMI from the left menu.
- Turn off the Enable HDMI Device Link option.
⚠️ Note: By turning this off, you will also lose the ability to use your TV remote to control the PS5 dashboard or media apps like Netflix.
Method 2: Disable "One-Touch Play" (the better balance)
If you want to stop the TV from turning your PS5 on, but you still want your TV remote to work, use this specific setting:
- From the PS5 home screen, go to Settings (the gear icon).
- Open System.
- Select HDMI from the left menu.
- Ensure the Enable HDMI Device Link option is turned on.
- Turn off the One-Touch Play option.
Result: The TV will no longer wake up the PS5 when you power on your screen or switch inputs.
Method 3: Disable "Power Off Link" (keep the PS5 running)
Does your PS5 enter Rest Mode the moment you turn off your TV? If you want to keep your games downloading or stay logged in while the TV is off, disable this setting:
- From the PS5 home screen, go to Settings (the gear icon).
- Open System.
- Select HDMI from the left menu.
- Ensure Enable HDMI Device Link is turned on.
- Turn off Power Off Link.
Result: Turning off your TV will no longer force your PS5 to shut down or enter Rest Mode.
Method 4: Turning it off on the TV side
Sometimes the TV is the one sending the wake up command. Every manufacturer uses a different name for HDMI-CEC. If the PS5 settings aren't enough, look for these names in your TV's Connection or External Device menu:
| Brand | What they call HDMI-CEC |
|---|---|
| Sony | Bravia Sync |
| Samsung | Anynet+ |
| LG | SimpLink |
| Philips | EasyLink |
| TCL / Hisense | HDMI-CEC |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PS5 still turn on randomly?
If your Device Link is off and it still wakes up, it might be Automatic Updates. Check Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode and disable "Stay Connected to the Internet" if you want it to remain completely dormant.
Can I use this to stop my TV from switching to the PS5 input?
Yes. Disabling One-Touch Play (Method 2) is the best way to stop the PS5 from hijacking your TV screen when it boots up.
Does this affect 4K or 120Hz?
No. HDMI-CEC is for control signals only. It has no impact on your graphics, resolution, or HDR settings.
Related:
How to stop your PS5 from going into rest mode automatically
How to fix PS5 problems: Troubleshooting guide
How to rebuild PS5 database: Fix lag & crashing
How to clear PS5 cache | Fix UI lag & crashing
How to restore licenses on PS5: Fix locked games
How to remove deleted games from PS5 home screen