Upgrading to the PlayStation 5 does not mean your PlayStation 4 accessories instantly become useless. Many gamers still have one or more DualShock 4 controllers from their PS4 setup, and naturally, they want to know whether those controllers can still be used on Sony’s latest console. The good news is that PS4 controllers can work on the PS5, but there are some important limitations you need to understand before you get started.
Using a PS4 controller on a PS5 can save money, provide extra controllers for local multiplayer, and allow you to keep using a familiar device you may already love. However, Sony designed the PS5’s DualSense controller with unique next-generation features such as adaptive triggers and advanced haptic feedback, so PS4 controllers are mainly restricted to PS4 games running on the PS5.
This guide explains everything in detail, including controller compatibility, connection methods, wireless pairing, Remote Play alternatives, troubleshooting, and practical tips. Whether you want to use your old controller as a backup or as a multiplayer option, this article will help you get the most out of your hardware.
Understanding PS4 Controller Compatibility on PS5
Sony officially supports the DualShock 4 controller on the PS5, but only under specific conditions. The PS4 controller is primarily designed to work with PS4 games that are played through backward compatibility on the PS5. This means if you are playing titles originally released for the PlayStation 4, your DualShock 4 should function normally.
However, if you are trying to play native PS5 games, Sony generally requires the use of the DualSense controller. This restriction exists because many PS5 games are specifically designed around the advanced hardware capabilities of DualSense, including:
- Adaptive triggers
- Enhanced vibration
- Haptic feedback
- Built-in microphone
- Motion features tailored to PS5 titles
As a result, while the DualShock 4 can still be valuable, it is not a complete replacement for the PS5 controller.
Supported uses for PS4 controllers on PS5 include:
- Playing PS4 games on PS5
- Navigating some system menus
- Using media apps
- Multiplayer gaming for compatible PS4 titles
Unsupported uses generally include:
- Native PS5 games
- Full DualSense-exclusive features
- Certain next-gen gameplay functions
Understanding this limitation is essential so you can avoid confusion when setting up your controller.
Benefits of Using a PS4 Controller on PS5
Even with compatibility restrictions, there are still many advantages to using a DualShock 4 with your PS5.
First, it is cost-effective. Purchasing additional DualSense controllers can be expensive, especially if you need multiple controllers for family members or guests. Reusing your PS4 controllers helps reduce that cost significantly.
Second, it is ideal for local multiplayer in PS4 games. If you enjoy couch co-op titles, sports games, or split-screen gaming, your older controllers remain highly useful.
Third, many players are already comfortable with the DualShock 4’s shape and button feel. Some users may even prefer its design over DualSense.
Additional benefits include:
- Backup controller while DualSense charges
- Reduced wear on expensive PS5 controllers
- Easy setup
- Familiar control layout
- Useful for children or casual players
For many households, using PS4 controllers is a practical and economical solution.
How To Connect a PS4 Controller to a PS5 Using a USB Cable
The simplest way to connect your DualShock 4 to your PS5 is through a wired USB connection. This method is fast, reliable, and often the best option for first-time pairing.
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- A charged DualShock 4 controller
- A compatible micro-USB cable
- Your PS5 powered on
Steps to connect via USB:
- Turn on your PS5 console.
- Connect the DualShock 4 controller to the PS5 using the USB cable.
- Press the PS button located in the center of the controller.
- Wait for the system to recognize the device.
- Select your user profile if prompted.
- Begin using the controller.
This method is especially useful because it also charges the controller during gameplay.
Advantages of wired setup:
- Faster connection
- Stable performance
- Lower input lag
- Simultaneous charging
- Simple troubleshooting
If the controller does not connect, check the cable, as some USB cables only provide charging and not data transfer.
How To Connect a PS4 Controller to a PS5 Wirelessly Using Bluetooth
Wireless pairing is another convenient option if you prefer cable-free gaming.
Steps to pair wirelessly:
- On your PS5 home screen, go to Settings.
- Select Accessories.
- Choose General.
- Open Bluetooth Accessories.
- On your DualShock 4, press and hold the Share button and the PS button simultaneously.
- Hold until the light bar begins flashing.
- Your controller should appear on the PS5 screen.
- Select it to complete pairing.
Once paired, the controller can be used wirelessly for supported content.
Benefits of Bluetooth pairing:
- No wires
- Cleaner gaming setup
- Greater mobility
- Easy reconnection
Important note:
If your controller was previously connected to a PS4, you may need to re-pair it when switching between consoles.
Reconnecting a Previously Paired Controller
Once your controller has been paired, reconnecting is usually straightforward.
- Turn on the PS5
- Press the PS button on the controller
- Wait for automatic connection
If automatic pairing fails:
- Reopen Bluetooth settings
- Select the controller manually
- Use USB if needed
Keep in mind that using the controller on a PS4 again may require another re-pairing process.
Using PS4 Controllers for Multiplayer on PS5
One of the best uses for DualShock 4 controllers on the PS5 is multiplayer gaming for PS4 titles.
Popular examples include:
- FIFA PS4 editions
- Rocket League
- Minecraft PS4 version
- Call of Duty PS4 version
- Fortnite PS4 version
To add additional controllers:
- Pair each controller individually
- Assign profiles or guest accounts
- Launch compatible PS4 games
This can greatly expand your multiplayer options without purchasing multiple DualSense controllers.
Can You Play PS5 Games With a PS4 Controller?
In most cases, no. Sony restricts DualShock 4 usage for native PS5 games.
Why:
PS5 games rely on DualSense-specific features that the DualShock 4 lacks.
Exceptions:
A workaround exists through PS Remote Play.
Using Remote Play as a Workaround
Remote Play allows you to stream your PS5 to another device, such as:
- PC
- Laptop
- Smartphone
- Tablet
By pairing your PS4 controller to that secondary device, you may indirectly control PS5 games.
Setup process:
- Enable Remote Play in PS5 settings
- Download the PS Remote Play app
- Connect your PS4 controller to the secondary device
- Log into your PlayStation account
- Stream your PS5
Pros:
- Allows PS4 controller use for PS5 games
- Flexible setup
- Useful for remote gaming
Cons:
- Potential input lag
- Internet dependent
- More complex setup
- Reduced responsiveness
This method works, but it is not ideal for competitive or fast-paced games.
Troubleshooting Common PS4 Controller Issues on PS5
Sometimes connection problems occur. Common solutions include:
Controller not connecting:
- Use a verified data cable
- Charge controller
- Restart PS5
- Reset controller
Bluetooth issues:
- Remove old pairing
- Re-pair device
- Move closer to console
Controller disconnects:
- Check battery health
- Update console firmware
- Reduce interference
Input lag:
- Switch to wired mode
- Minimize Bluetooth congestion
- Keep firmware updated
How To Reset a PS4 Controller
If problems persist, resetting the controller may help.
Steps:
- Turn off controller
- Locate reset hole on back
- Insert paperclip
- Hold for 5 seconds
- Reconnect via USB
This can resolve many pairing issues.
Battery Life and Charging Tips
To maximize controller performance:
- Charge regularly
- Use quality USB cables
- Turn off controller when not in use
- Avoid over-discharging
- Store safely
Older DualShock 4 batteries may degrade over time, so performance can vary.
PS4 Controller vs PS5 Controller Differences
While both controllers share similarities, the PS5 DualSense offers major upgrades:
DualShock 4:
- Reliable
- Comfortable
- Budget-friendly
- Great for PS4 games
DualSense:
- Adaptive triggers
- Advanced haptics
- Better immersion
- PS5-exclusive features
- Improved next-gen support
For the full PS5 experience, DualSense remains essential.
Best Scenarios for Using a PS4 Controller on PS5
The PS4 controller is best suited for:
- PS4 backward-compatible gaming
- Extra multiplayer controllers
- Budget gaming
- Guest players
- Media apps
- Backup gaming sessions
In these scenarios, the DualShock 4 remains highly practical.
Keeping Your System Updated
To maintain optimal compatibility:
- Update PS5 firmware
- Charge controllers regularly
- Re-pair devices when needed
- Use official accessories when possible
System updates can improve Bluetooth stability and accessory support.
Final Thoughts
Using a PS4 controller on a PS5 is an excellent way to extend the value of your existing gaming accessories. While Sony limits DualShock 4 support mainly to PS4 games and certain applications, the controller remains highly useful for multiplayer, backup use, and budget-conscious setups.
Whether you choose wired USB, Bluetooth pairing, or Remote Play, setting up a PS4 controller on a PS5 is relatively simple. For players who frequently enjoy PS4 backward-compatible titles, this can be a smart and practical solution.
However, for native PS5 games, the DualSense controller is still necessary to fully experience the console’s advanced features. Ultimately, keeping your DualShock 4 around gives you more flexibility, more multiplayer options, and better value from your gaming hardware.
