Can You Use a PS5 Controller on a PS4?

The DualSense is an excellent controller for all your PS5 and PC gaming needs. But can you also use it on a PS4? Let's find out.

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You can use a DualSense controller to play PS4 games on a PS5 console, but can you use a PS5 controller on a PS4 console?

Well, the simple answer is no. However, there’s a neat workaround you can use. Here’s what you need to know.

The PS5 Controller and PS4 Console Are Not Compatible

Sony made it clear in a PlayStation Blog post that the DualSense controller will not work on PS4 consoles, as the two devices aren't compatible when connected directly. The console manufacturer has not provided a reason why this is the case, but it's a bit strange considering that the PS4 controller is forward compatible with the PS5 and backward compatible with the PS3.

However, if all you have is a PS4 console and DualSense controller (no PS4 controller to play with), you can indirectly connect these incompatible devices with the help of a middleman.

So, How Do PS5 Controllers Work on PS4?

Provided you’ve enabled Remote Play on your PS4 console, you can play via PC or Mac using the PS Remote Play app. When using Remote Play this way, you can connect your DualSense Controller to your PC, and thus use your PS5 controller on your PS4.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Download the PS Remote Play app for PC and Mac onto your computer and install it.
   
2. Turn on your PS4, make sure it connects to the internet, and that it’s logged in to your PlayStation Network account.
3. Open the Remote Play app on your PC or Mac, click the Sign In to PSN button, and follow the instructions to log in to your PSN account.
   
4. After you sign in, Click the PS4 icon on the right. This will make the app attempt to connect to the PS4 console.
   
5. Once the Remote Play app and PS4 connect, plug the DualSense controller into your computer using a USB-C cable.
6. Enjoy your game.

Since the DualSense controller works with the Android and iOS Remote Play app through Bluetooth pairing, you can also use it to play games on your PS4 through streaming on supported mobile devices.

Using the DualSense Controller on PS4 the Hard Way

Frustratingly, the answer to “Can you use a PS5 controller on a PS4?” is “not directly”.

You can use any device that supports the PS Remote Play app as a bridge to connect the two, but you can’t link them directly. It might not be the easiest way to get around it, but it works.