Learn How PS4 Controllers Work With PS5

Understanding PS4 Controller Backward Compatibility With PS5

The PlayStation 5 represents a significant technological leap from its predecessor, but Sony designed the system with backward compatibility in mind. PS4 controllers, officially called DualShock 4 controllers, can work with your PS5 console, though with some important limitations you should know about. This compatibility exists because the PS5 maintains a software layer that allows it to recognize and respond to PS4 hardware inputs.

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When you connect a PS4 controller to your PS5, the console detects the device through either a USB cable or wireless connection via the included USB wireless adapter. The PS5 operating system translates the controller's input signals into commands that PS4 games can understand. This means you're not just physically connecting the controller—the PS5 is actively converting the controller's button presses, stick movements, and trigger inputs into data that PS4 software recognizes and responds to appropriately.

The backward compatibility was built into the PS5's hardware and firmware specifically because millions of PS4 owners already owned DualShock 4 controllers. Sony recognized that forcing players to purchase new controllers would create unnecessary expense and waste. The engineering team at PlayStation tested thousands of PS4 games to determine which ones worked reliably with the controller system they developed.

It's worth noting that this compatibility is one-directional only. You cannot use a PS5's DualSense controller with PS4 games running on a PS4 console. The PS4 lacks the necessary software and hardware support to recognize the DualSense's unique features. However, DualSense controllers do work with most PS4 games when connected to a PS5 running PS4 backwards compatible titles.

Practical Takeaway: Your existing PS4 controllers remain functional with your PS5 for playing PS4 games, which means you don't need to replace them immediately. However, understand that this functionality applies only to PS4 games, not PS5 native games, and there are specific connection methods you'll need to follow.

Connection Methods: USB and Wireless Options

You have two primary ways to connect your PS4 DualShock 4 controller to a PS5 console. Each method has different use cases and considerations. Understanding both options helps you choose the setup that works best for your gaming situation and physical space.

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The first method uses a standard USB cable. You can connect your PS4 controller directly to the PS5 using any compatible micro-USB cable—the same type that charges many smartphones and other devices. Simply plug one end into the controller's charging port and the other end into one of the PS5's USB ports. The console will recognize the controller within a few seconds, and you'll see confirmation on your screen. This method works reliably for PS4 games and offers the advantage of providing power to the controller while you play, so you don't need to worry about battery drain during extended gaming sessions.

The second connection method uses wireless connectivity through the USB wireless adapter. Your PS4 included a small USB wireless receiver when you originally purchased it. This receiver plugs into one of the PS5's USB ports and communicates with your DualShock 4 controller through a proprietary 2.4 GHz signal. The wireless range is typically around 30 feet, though walls, other electronic devices, and interference can reduce this distance. Many players prefer wireless connectivity because it eliminates cable clutter and allows for more freedom of movement while playing.

It's important to understand that the PS5 does not support direct Bluetooth connection with PS4 controllers. You cannot simply put your DualShock 4 into pairing mode and connect it wirelessly like you would with a smartphone. You must use the official USB wireless adapter, which came packaged with your original PS4 console. If you no longer have this adapter, you'll need to obtain one separately, as the PS5 cannot create this connection without it.

When using the wireless adapter, make sure it's inserted into the PS5's USB port before turning on the console or controller. Insert the controller's USB cable into the PS5 for a few seconds to ensure the wireless connection is properly established, then disconnect the cable. The controller will maintain its wireless connection to the adapter going forward, similar to how it worked with your PS4.

Practical Takeaway: Use the USB cable connection for simplicity and guaranteed power supply, or use the wireless adapter if you have it available and prefer untethered gameplay. The wireless method requires the original PS4 USB adapter, which you cannot replace with a generic option.

PS4 Games That Work With DualShock 4 Controllers on PS5

Not every PS4 game works on the PS5, and not every game that does work supports the DualShock 4 controller. Sony maintains a published list of PS4 games that are compatible with the PS5 system. As of recent data, approximately 4,000 PS4 titles are playable on PS5 out of the roughly 4,500 games released for PS4. This represents a 99% compatibility rate for games that PS5 supports, though the exact list changes occasionally as developers update their titles.

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The majority of PS4 games that run on PS5 support the DualShock 4 controller for gameplay. Popular titles like the Uncharted series, God of War, The Last of Us Part II, Spider-Man, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Bloodborne all function properly with PS4 controllers on the PS5. Fighting games, sports titles, racing games, and action-adventure games generally have solid DualShock 4 support. Role-playing games like Final Fantasy VII Remake and Persona 5 also work well.

The games that might present issues are those that require features unique to the DualSense controller. The DualSense introduced haptic feedback (detailed vibration) and adaptive triggers (variable resistance in the trigger buttons) as central gameplay features. Some newer PS4 games that received updates to take advantage of these PS5 features may not play optimally with a DualShock 4, since the older controller cannot replicate these sensations. Additionally, games that were designed from the ground up for PS5 native play—not backward compatible PS4 titles—do not support the DualShock 4 controller at all.

To check if a specific PS4 game works on PS5 with your controller, you can consult Sony's official PS4 backwards compatibility list available on the PlayStation website. The list indicates compatibility status and notes any special considerations for each title. Some games may show as "playable" but with minor issues or differences from the PS4 version. Reading user reviews on gaming forums can also provide practical information about real-world performance.

It's also worth knowing that PS5 games—those designed specifically for the next-generation console—will not recognize your PS4 controller at all. If you want to play PS5 native games like Demon's Souls, Astro's Playroom, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, or Returnal, you must have a DualSense controller. This is a hard limitation, not something that can be changed through settings or updates.

Practical Takeaway: Before purchasing a game or assuming your PS4 controller will work, check the PS5 compatibility list. The vast majority of PS4 games work fine with DualShock 4 controllers, but you'll need a DualSense for any games made specifically for PS5.

Feature Limitations and What You'll Miss With PS4 Controllers

While your PS4 controller functions for PS4 games on the PS5, you should understand that it lacks several features found in the newer DualSense controller. These aren't defects—they're simply differences in hardware design that affect how games feel and respond. Knowing what to expect prevents frustration and helps you decide whether upgrading makes sense for your gaming preferences.

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The most noticeable limitation is the absence of haptic feedback on the DualShock 4. Haptic feedback refers to subtle, precise vibrations that the DualSense uses to create immersive tactile experiences. In games like Spider-Man, you feel the difference between web-slinging across steel versus concrete. In racing games, you sense the texture of different road surfaces. In action games, each weapon impact carries a unique vibration signature. The DualShock 4 has basic vibration motors, but they cannot produce these refined, nuanced sensations. For PS4 games running on PS5,