How to connect PS5 controller to PS4

Ever thought about using a PS5 controller on a PS4? Though it’s not a straightforward solution, we’ll help with all the possible options here.

Sony isn’t big on backward compatibility. The PS4 DualShock 4 controller only works with a few PS3 games, and connecting your PS5 controller to a PS4 isn’t a walk in the park either. However, all is not lost, as there are still some tricks to connect your PS5 controller to the PS4.

One option is snagging a Brook converter. While it uses wireless or wired connections and can be plugged directly into the controller, some gamers have reported compatibility issues. However, individual experiences may differ.

Another option is the MayFlash Pro, which has your back for using DualSense PS5 controllers on the PS4. Keep in mind, though, that it does not support MayFlash’s arcade stick on the PS5. Refer to Brook’s comprehensive list to check if your preferred controller is compatible.

How to use PS5 controller on PS4

Sony

First, you’re going to need to download the PlayStation Remote Play PC app. After this is installed, connect your PS4 controller to your PC. You can use either Bluetooth or a mini-USB cable.

Unfortunately, the PlayStation remote app will only support DualShock 4 or DualSense.

Connecting your PS4 controller via Bluetooth for the PS Remote Play PC/Mac app will result in the following not being supported:

• The touchpad is not supported.
• The color of the light bar cannot be changed. 
• Rumble, motion sensors, and the headphone jack’s audio connection are not supported. 

We recommend using your phone for this, as you’ll be able to keep the full functionality of the controller.

To connect your PS4 controller to your device, press and hold the PS and Share button until it flashes. Then head into your Bluetooth options to connect it up.

Turn on your PS5 and head through to:

Settings > System > Remote Play > Enable Remote Play.

From the Settings menu, you can use the Power Saving options to also turn on the PS5 from your network – in case you’re wanting to play on the go.

On the PlayStation Remote Play app, you can then sign in with your PSN ID and connect to your PlayStation 5 – with a DualShock 4 in tow.

Can you use a PS4 controller on PS5?

A PS4 controller will work on a PS5, only in PlayStation 4 games, but not on the current generation of titles. This might seem like a missed opportunity, but we believe it’s due to Sony wanting that clear cut-off from the PS4 to the PS5.

The DualSense uses Bluetooth 5.1, which is backward compatible with the PS4’s Bluetooth 4. This isn’t a hardware issue, but a software one. It’s also possible that Sony is avoiding letting PS5’s DualSense onto the PS4 to keep things simple.

In theory, the controller scenario should work just fine – as seen on the Xbox Series X and S. There, Xbox One controllers are forward compatible, as Series X and S controllers are also backward compatible.

However, there is an incredibly convoluted way to get your DualShock 4 working on the PS5. It’s not ideal and we don’t recommend it, but follow along and you’ll see what we mean.

Make sure to check out our other guides

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