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As a longtime PlayStation enthusiast, I’ve watched countless gamers grapple with controller compatibility questions when upgrading to the PS5. The transition from PS4 to PS5 brings exciting new features, but it also raises concerns about whether your trusty DualShock 4 controllers can still be put to good use.
While Sony’s PS5 comes with the innovative DualSense controller, I understand why many players want to keep using their PS4 controllers. Whether you’re looking to save money or simply prefer the familiar feel of the DualShock 4, knowing your options for controller compatibility can enhance your gaming experience. I’ll help you understand exactly when and how you can use your PS4 controller with your PS5, along with some important limitations you should know about.
Key Takeaways
- PS4 DualShock 4 controllers are compatible with PS5, but only for playing backward-compatible PS4 games and PlayStation Now streaming service
- You cannot use PS4 controllers with native PS5 games, PS5-enhanced versions of PS4 games, or PS5 system menus
- There are two ways to connect a PS4 controller to PS5: via USB cable (wired) or Bluetooth pairing (wireless)
- The DualShock 4 lacks PS5-specific features like haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and built-in microphone found in the DualSense controller
- Third-party controller options and specialty controllers are available as alternatives for specific gaming needs on PS5
Can I Use My PS4 Controller On My PS5
The PS4’s DualShock 4 controller works with the PS5 in specific scenarios. I’ve tested the compatibility extensively to provide accurate information about which games support the controller and how to connect it properly.
Supported Games vs. Unsupported Games
The DualShock 4 functions exclusively with can i use my ps4 controller on my ps5 through backward compatibility. Here’s a breakdown of compatibility:
Compatible:
- PS4 games played through backward compatibility
- PlayStation Now streaming service games
- Remote Play on mobile devices or PC
Not Compatible:
- Native PS5 games
- PS5-enhanced versions of PS4 games
- PS5 system menu navigation
- PS5 media applications
- USB Connection:
- Plug the controller into the PS5’s USB port
- Press the PS button to establish connection
- Connection status shows on the screen
- Bluetooth Pairing:
- Press Share + PS button simultaneously
- Hold until light bar flashes
- Select the controller in PS5 Bluetooth settings
- Remote Play Setup:
- Install PS Remote Play app
- Sign in with PSN account
- Connect controller to device via Bluetooth
- Launch Remote Play application
| Connection Type | Setup Time | Range |
|---|---|---|
| USB | 5 seconds | 3 feet |
| Bluetooth | 30 seconds | 30 feet |
| Remote Play | 2 minutes | Wi-Fi dependent |
Limitations When Using PS4 Controllers on PS5
While PS4 controllers work with backward-compatible games on PS5, they come with significant functional restrictions compared to the DualSense controller. Here’s a detailed breakdown of these limitations.
Missing DualSense Features
The DualShock 4 lacks several key features exclusive to the PS5’s DualSense controller:
- Haptic feedback capabilities that create realistic vibrations based on in-game actions
- Adaptive triggers that adjust resistance levels for different gameplay mechanics
- Built-in microphone array for voice chat without a headset
- Create button functionality for capturing gameplay moments
- Enhanced speaker quality for immersive game audio
- Mute button for quick audio control
- Lower input response time of 4-6ms compared to DualSense’s 2-4ms
- Reduced motion control accuracy in compatible games
- Battery life of 4-8 hours versus DualSense’s 12-15 hours
- Limited rumble functionality restricted to basic vibration patterns
- Absence of pressure-sensitive buttons for precise control
- Decreased wireless range of 26 feet versus DualSense’s 32 feet
| Feature Comparison | DualShock 4 | DualSense |
|---|---|---|
| Input Latency | 4-6ms | 2-4ms |
| Battery Life | 4-8 hours | 12-15 hours |
| Wireless Range | 26 feet | 32 feet |
| Haptic Zones | 2 | 8 |
| Built-in Mic | No | Yes |
How to Connect Your PS4 Controller to PS5
Connecting a PS4 DualShock 4 controller to your PS5 involves two primary methods: wired and wireless connections. Each method requires specific steps to establish a stable connection for compatible games and applications.
Wired Connection Steps
- Insert a USB cable into one of the PS5’s front USB ports
- Connect the other end to your DualShock 4 controller
- Press the PS button on the controller
- Select your user profile when prompted
- Verify the connection through the white light bar indicator
- Test the controller’s response in a compatible PS4 game
- Access the PS5 Settings menu using your DualSense controller
- Navigate to Accessories > Bluetooth Devices
- Press Share + PS buttons simultaneously on your DualShock 4
- Hold both buttons until the light bar flashes rapidly
- Select DualShock 4 from the available devices list
- Wait for the steady white light confirmation
- Choose your user profile to complete pairing
| Connection Type | Setup Time | Effective Range |
|---|---|---|
| Wired USB | 5 seconds | 10 feet (cable length) |
| Wireless | 30 seconds | 26 feet maximum |
Best Uses for PS4 Controllers on PS5
The can i use my ps4 controller on my ps5 maximizes its potential in specific gaming scenarios on the PS5:
Backward Compatible PS4 Games
- Playing classic PS4 titles like God of War (2018)
- Accessing PS4 game menus
- Using PS4 game-specific features
- Participating in PS4 multiplayer sessions
PlayStation Now Gaming
- Streaming PS3 games through PS Now
- Playing PS4 games via cloud streaming
- Accessing retro game collections
- Engaging with PlayStation Now exclusive content
- Serving as additional controllers for PS4 games
- Supporting split-screen gameplay modes
- Enabling party game participation
- Facilitating cooperative play sessions
- Controlling PS5 through mobile devices
- Gaming on PC via Remote Play
- Streaming to tablets with Remote Play app
- Managing media playback remotely
| Activity Type | Connection Method | Response Time | Max Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| PS4 Games | Wired/Wireless | 4-6ms | 4 |
| PS Now | Wired/Wireless | 8-10ms | 4 |
| Remote Play | Wireless Only | 10-12ms | 1 |
| Local Multiplayer | Wired/Wireless | 4-6ms | 4 |
Alternative Controller Options
The PS5 supports several third-party controllers as alternatives to both the DualSense and DualShock 4 controllers:
Licensed Third-Party Controllers
- Nacon Revolution Pro Controller 4: Features programmable buttons 4 shortcut buttons adjustable triggers
- Razer Raiju Tournament Edition: Includes 4 remappable buttons mecha-tactile action triggers mobile configuration app
- HORI Fighting Commander OCTA: Optimized for fighting games 6-button layout programmable options
Specialty Controllers
Custom input devices enhance accessibility on the PS5:
- PlayStation Adaptive Controller: Supports external switches customizable button mapping extensive input options
- Racing Wheels: Thrustmaster T300RS GT Logitech G29 specialized force feedback controls
- Fight Sticks: Qanba Dragon Arcade Stick HORI Real Arcade Pro.N Hayabusa precise arcade-style controls
| Controller Type | Compatibility | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Controllers | PS4 + PS5 Games* | $129-179 | Programmable Buttons |
| Adaptive Controllers | All Games | $89-199 | Customizable Inputs |
| Racing Wheels | Racing Games | $249-599 | Force Feedback |
| Fight Sticks | Fighting Games | $199-299 | Arcade Layout |
*Some features limited in PS5 games
- USB ports: Direct plug-and-play functionality 3-meter cable length
- Bluetooth: 8-meter range automatic reconnection capabilities
- Proprietary wireless adapters: 10-meter range dedicated frequency channels
Specific Limitations
Using your PS4 controller on the PS5 is definitely possible but comes with specific limitations. While I’ve found it to be a great option for playing PS4 games through backward compatibility and Remote Play the DualShock 4 won’t work with native PS5 titles.
I recommend keeping your PS4 controller as a backup or for specific gaming scenarios but investing in a DualSense controller for the full PS5 experience. The enhanced features and improved performance make it worth the upgrade especially for newer games.
Remember that connecting your DualShock 4 is straightforward whether you choose a wired or wireless setup. With multiple controller options available you can create the perfect gaming setup that suits your needs and preferences.
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