Both ways work fine

All PlayStation 5 models and both Xbox Series X and Series S were designed to work in either vertical or horizontal orientation. You can choose based on available space and how you want everything to look.

Airflow is the key factor

Consoles need room to breathe. Never wedge a PS5 or Xbox Series X or S into a tightly enclosed media cabinet, stack other devices on top, or place it right against walls. Both manufacturers recommend a stable surface.

Vertical saves space but risks tipping

Vertical placement is useful in a narrow entertainment center or crowded gaming area, but makes the system easier to knock over. If you have rowdy dogs or adventurous children, vertical placement might be asking for trouble.

Horizontal is more stable

Horizontal placement works well beneath a TV for aesthetics and uniformity. While it uses more real estate, it has a much lower center of gravity and is the more stable option for households with pets or children.

Disc orientation matters less now

Today's consoles are designed to work in either orientation and only read discs when installing games or verifying ownership. The small advantage of horizontal is remembering which way the disc goes, but this will become moot as Sony phases out physical media.

No overheating risk from standing upright

There is no indication that standing the PS5 upright has a negative impact on airflow or cooling. According to Sony, the PS5 should be a minimum of four inches away from wall surfaces and never placed in a cramped area.

“the PS5 should never be placed in a cramped area and should be a minimum of four inches away from wall surfaces”

Dust and maintenance matter most

Dust accumulation, nearby heat sources and clutter around the console can all contribute to excess heating, regardless of orientation. Regular cleaning and safe placement will keep your PS5 healthy for a long time.