July 2, 2025, 6:01 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Challenging titles, high summer temperatures, or even dust buildup—there are several reasons why gaming consoles can overheat. TECHBOOK offers tips on how to best cool your PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and other consoles.
Heat is harmful to all electronics, including gaming consoles. Consoles can get quite noisy at high temperatures when the fan is running at full speed. If the internal cooling systems are no longer effective, it’s important to act quickly to prevent damage to the device. However, there are a few points to consider. TECHBOOK explains how to best cool PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and other consoles.
Overview
Reasons for Excessive Heat in Consoles
Most people have likely experienced technical devices getting hot during use. There can be several reasons for this. First, outside temperatures naturally affect electronics. For example, when the thermometer climbs above 86 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, it’s not only challenging for the human body but also for technology. This is because electronics generate a lot of heat themselves, which is intensified by sunlight. Nintendo even warns against using the Switch in high heat during the summer.
Self-generated heat also increases with performance. For instance, smartphones heat up when many energy-intensive applications run simultaneously. Gaming consoles similarly run hot when users play graphically demanding games that require high computing power. Older consoles, in particular, often struggle to meet the increased demands of modern games.
Devices like the PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch have built-in fans to keep the temperature, which typically arises during use, in check and prevent damage to the electronics. Faulty fans or a lack of escape routes for hot air are also common reasons for overheating. If the temperature exceeds a certain limit, the console must be cooled externally.
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How to Cool a Hot Gaming Console
The internal temperature a console can withstand depends on its performance and design. Temperatures of 140 degrees Fahrenheit are not uncommon inside the devices; they can occasionally rise above 194 degrees. Such numbers are extremely damaging to electronics and casings over time. Therefore, there are several things to consider from the outset to make the gaming console as comfortable as possible.
Optimal Location
The location is crucial for temperature. Is the console regularly exposed to sunlight? Is it placed directly against a wall? Are other electronic devices nearby? All these factors are important, as is the material of the surface on which the gaming console stands. Some materials, like certain fabrics, store heat particularly well.
Therefore, make sure to place your PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch in a location that is as dark and cool as possible. However, not too cold, as low temperatures are also not beneficial for electronics. Additionally, there should be no devices nearby that emit heat or restrict the console’s ventilation. Materials like wood, cardboard, or textiles are not recommended as surfaces. Their low density means they absorb and heat up rather than dissipate heat.
Ventilation
As mentioned earlier, ventilation is crucial for preventing heat buildup inside the gaming console. Ensure that the external ventilation slots are always clear.
Additionally, dust or pet hair can cause internal blockages that hinder the fan’s operation. You can easily open a PlayStation 4 or 5 to carefully remove dirt and even replace the fan if it’s outdated. This is also possible with the Xbox One or Series X without much expertise. For the first and second generation Nintendo Switch, you can replace the fan, but it’s a bit more complicated due to the small casing. Also, any damage incurred during this process is not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
Digital Games
Physical discs generate more heat and noise during gaming. If your console is running hot or outside temperatures are particularly high, switch to digital games if possible.
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Actively Cooling the Console
Especially in summer with high outside temperatures, the preventive measures mentioned may not always suffice. Then, PlayStation and others need to be actively cooled. A simple yet effective method is using a fan. Ensure the external airflow is directed at the ventilation slots, but not so close and strong that hot air is pushed back into the casing. The goal is to quickly move the hot air away from the gaming console.
A cooling mat, like those used for cats, can also help. These mats don’t emit cold but rather absorb the heat from the object placed on them, without creating condensation. You can also temporarily use a regular cold pack or cooling gel pack. However, wrap it in a kitchen towel to prevent any liquid from entering the console. Also, do not cool the PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch this way for too long.
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Do Not Immediately Turn Off the Console in Heat
If the gaming console is running hot and making loud noises, do not simply turn it off. Try cooling it as described and end the current session if necessary. Give the fan and any additional measures some time to cool the console while it’s still on. The fans are most efficient at expelling hot air from the inside.
If your console regularly overheats regardless of location and outside temperature, it may simply be due to outdated technology. Older devices often can’t fully handle the demands of new high-end titles.