Sony’s DualShock 4 can have a second lease of life on the PlayStation 5 and we’ve got everything you need to know about using the PS4 controller on the current Sony console.
The Sony DualSense is an excellent controller that shows off Sony’s latest haptic feedback tech. However, its high price point can make it awkward if you ever need a replacement — especially if it becomes subject to a dreaded case of drift.
If this isn’t your first PlayStation rodeo, you likely have a ton of PS4 DualShock 4 controls collecting dust. Well good news, you can use these long-forgotten PS4 artifacts and use them with your brand-new Sony console.
How to connect and use a PS4 controller with a PS5
- Turn on PS5
- Navigate to Settings
- Select General
- Navigate to ‘Bluetooth Accessories’
- Put DualShock 4 into ‘Pairing mode’
- Press and hold the PS4 controller’s Share button and PlayStation button until the light on the top of the controller starts to flash
- Look at your TV for ‘DualShock 4′ appearing as a Bluetooth devices
- Select it with your PS5 controller and press X
To set up your PS4 DualShock 4 controller on your PS5, first turn on your PS5 console and navigate to the system’s settings by selecting the cog icon in the top-right corner of the screen.
From here, navigate down and select the ‘Accessories’ option, and on the following page, select ‘General’ and ‘Bluetooth Accessories.’
Grab a hold of your PS4 controller and enter pairing mode by simultaneously pressing and holding the PlayStation and Share buttons.
After a few seconds, the controller will begin to flash, and it should now be recognized by your PS5 console. Select the PS4 controller from the list on the screen, and you’re ready to play any PS4 game on the PS5.
Is a PS4 controller a viable option for the PS5?
The PS4 controller is a viable option for the PS5, but it does have one big shortcoming that restricts its eligibility.
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The PlayStation 4 DualShock controller can be used on the PlayStation 5, but it can only be used to play PS4 games. If you have a PS5 disc inserted, and you’re trying to use a PS4 controller, then it simply won’t work.
In an official PlayStation Blog post, Sony stated this decision was because they believe “that PS5 games should take advantage of the new capabilities and features we’re bringing to the platform” and that includes the features of the PS5 DualSense controller.
Attempting to use a PS4 DualShock controller to play a PS5 game will cause a warning to appear on your Sony console stating, “PS5 games can’t be played using the DUALSHOCK 4.”
You can, however, use third-party PS5 controllers to play those PS5 games. As Sony has patented their haptic feedback tech, you do miss out on the fantastical sensations when playing games like Astro’s Playroom. However, controllers like the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro make for worthy alternatives, especially with its drift-free hall effect sticks.
That’s everything you need to know about using a PS4 controller on PS5! Be sure to check out our other guides while you’re here:
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