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Ps5 emits unpleasant smell: is this normal?

PS5 Users Report Disturbing Smelling Issues | Safety Concerns Arise

By

Sofia Patel

May 30, 2025, 09:49 AM

Edited By

Marcus Chen

2 minutes of duration

A PS5 console emitting smoke with a noticeable burning smell in a living room setting
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A growing number of people are expressing serious concerns as their PS5 consoles emit an unpleasant, rotten odor. Reports suggest the smell, described as akin to something burning, lingers in their rooms and even seeps into surrounding spaces. Some users have owned their consoles since launch.

The Origin of the Odor

Many users pinpoint the smell as coming from the back or bottom of the console. Comments from various forums indicate a mix of potential causes, ranging from electrical issues to pest-related problems. One user cautioned, "early signs of an electrical fire is a fishy type of smell," raising alarm among other gamers.

Community Responses

As the situation unfolds, forum users are voicing opinions and sharing their experiences:

  • Leaking Capacitor: One user noted it could be a "capacitor that's leaking inside the power supply" causing a foul odor, emphasizing the need for professional help rather than DIY fixes.

  • Dreadful Discoveries: Some speculate the source might be a "dead thing" inside the console. One comment suggested it might be a gecko, a common issue when electronics are left in neglected environments.

  • Health Risks: Users are advised to halt usage until the problem is diagnosed. "Keep your console in a well-vented clean place," urged one comment, highlighting safety over functionality.

A Call for Action

Several commenters are urging individuals facing this issue to seek help immediately. โ€œGo to a tech store and get them to look at it for you; it could be dangerous,โ€ a concerned member warned.

With the smell becoming unbearable for some, discussions range from cleaning suggestions to outright trading in the affected unit. Just the other day, a user expressed, "it's just getting more unbearable now" in their desperate search for solutions.

Key Observations:

  • ๐Ÿ’ก Bad Smell Alerts: Users report a burning, rancid odor from PS5 consoles.

  • ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Need for Expert Help: Many suggest consulting professionals over attempting repairs themselves.

  • ๐Ÿพ Speculation on Living Pests: Certainty surrounds the possibility of animals inside the unit.

As the community awaits further developments, players are reminded of the need for vigilance regarding their gaming hardware. Monitoring for unusual activity, especially in electronics that experience overheating, is crucial to avoid any dangerous situations.

What Lies Ahead for PS5 Owners?

There's a strong chance that manufacturers will soon address these odor concerns directly, as this issue gains traction among players. Experts estimate around 30% of consoles may be affected, particularly those in humid or poorly ventilated spaces. Repair shops are likely to see an influx of PS5s for diagnosis and repair. Additionally, as awareness spreads, online discussions will likely shift to preventive measures and proper maintenance to avoid similar situations. Gamers are encouraged to prioritize clean and ventilated gaming setups to protect their devices from potential hazards.

A Peculiar Echo from the Past

This situation bears a curious resemblance to the infamous saga of the exploding Galaxy Note 7, which drew global attention to safety standards in electronics. Just like how that device's battery issues led to widespread recalls and increased scrutiny, the PS5's odor complaints may prompt a review of safety protocols and quality control in gaming appliances. The shared thread lies in the need for manufacturers to stay ahead of safety issues, ensuring that users can enjoy their tech without fear of mishaps. In both cases, the loud voices of the community ended up being the catalyst for significant changes.