- PS5 controllers do not work natively on PS4 consoles but there are alternative methods.
- Explore options like compatible Bluetooth adapters or PS Remote Play for a (mostly) wireless connection.
- For a wired connection, consider the pricier Titan Two adapter.
Despite the fact that all console gamers swear unity, we all have different machines. Any PS5 user who’s come up from the PS4 days must still have the console lying around. If you find yourself in a situation where you want to use a PS5 controller on a PS4, this one’s for you. With that, let’s begin learning if you can use a PS5 controller on a PS4 right here.
Can I Use a PS5 Controller on a PS4?
Unfortunately, you cannot natively run a PS5 controller on a PS4. Sony made that perfectly clear in a PS5 FAQ it posted a few years ago. Thankfully, there are still a few workarounds to using a PS5 controller on a PS4. However, do note your experience will be a little laggy compared to native controller support.
How to Use a PS5 Controller on a PS4
While the native support is not there, a few methods can help you use the PS5 dualsense controllers on the PS4. Although both methods work well, you can experience input lags and no haptic feedback.
1. Using a Bluetooth Adapter
To make the PS5 controller work on PS4, the first workaround is simple. However, that involves a third-party Bluetooth adapter. The adapter will work as the middleman for your controller and console. Although it will not get you the full feel of the dualsense controllers, you will be able to play games. Here is how you can connect PS5 controllers to PS4 using a Bluetooth adapter:
- Get a Bluetooth adapter that is PS5 controller compatible.
- Plug the Bluetooth adapter into any USB port on your PS4.
- Hold the PlayStation button and the Share button simultaneously on your controller.
Doing so will pair the PS5 Dualsense to your PS4 and will let you use it. However, as we mentioned, there might be input lag and latency.
2. Using PS Remote Play to
While the PS Remote Play app lets you use your PS5 controller on a PS4 by streaming the console to a PC/Mac or phone, it’s not ideal. The extra step adds lag and reduces quality compared to a direct connection. Before you start the process, make sure you have a PSN account and it is logged in your PS4. Once done, follow the steps below:
- Download the PS Remote Play app on your PC/Mac or Smartphone.
- Sign in to your PlayStation Network account.
- Select PS4 from the menu and it will automatically connect.
- If auto-connect does not work, click Link manually.
- Go to your PS4 Remote Play Connection Settings -> Add Device.
- Copy the Code from this menu and paste it into your PS Remote Play, then click Link.
Once you set up your PS Remote Play to play PS4 games on PC or mobile, you can use your Dualsense controllers using a USB-C cable to play PS4 games. On mobile devices, you can connect your PS5 controllers using Bluetooth and go wireless as well. However, reading all this must have already told you how tedious can the entire job be.
3. Bonus Alternative: Using the Titan Two Adapter
A bonus alternative to using a PS5 controller on a PS4 is a Titan Two adapter. It is costly compared to a normal Bluetooth adapter. However, it allows you to connect the PS5 controller to a PS4 using a wired connection.
Unfortunately, given it is priced at $139.99, it makes zero sense to spend on this device. However, if you do buy it, you can connect it to your PS4 using USB and connect your PS5 controller to it.
These are all the methods you can try to use the PS5 controller on a PS4. Have you tried any of them or got yourself a PS5 instead? Tell us in the comments below.
