How to Connect Your PS4 Controller to Your PS5: A Step-by-Step Guide

As gaming technology continues to evolve, players often find themselves with a mix of controllers from different consoles. If you’ve recently upgraded to the PlayStation 5 (PS5) but still have your trusty PlayStation 4 (PS4) controller, you might wonder whether you can still use it. The good news is that you can connect your PS4 controller to your PS5, and this blog post will walk you through the process step by step.

Why Use Your PS4 Controller with PS5?

Before diving into the connection process, let’s take a moment to consider why you might want to use your PS4 controller with a PS5. Here are a few reasons:

1. Comfort: If you’re accustomed to the feel of the PS4 controller (DualShock 4), you may prefer using it over the PS5’s DualSense controller, especially for longer gaming sessions.

2. Backup Option: Having multiple controllers can be beneficial for multiplayer games or when charging one controller while using another.

3. Cost-Effective: If you already have a PS4 controller, using it means you won’t need to invest in an additional PS5 controller.

Preparing for Connection

Ensure Your Controller is Charged

Before you begin the connection process, make sure that your PS4 controller has sufficient battery charge. If the battery is low, plug it into a charging cable for a bit to ensure a smooth pairing process.

Update Your PS5 Software

Ensure that your PS5 console’s system software is updated to the latest version. This will help minimize any compatibility issues during the connection process. You can check for updates by going to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update.

Step-by-Step Connection Process

Now, let’s move on to connecting your PS4 controller to your PS5. Follow these steps closely to ensure a seamless experience.

Step 1: Access Bluetooth Settings on Your PS5

1. Turn on your PS5 and navigate to the home screen.
2. Go to Settings using the gear icon in the upper right corner of the screen.
3. Scroll down to Accessories and select it.
4. Look for Bluetooth Accessories within that menu. This will show you the devices currently connected to your PS5.

Step 2: Preparing Your PS4 Controller for Pairing

1. To prepare your PS4 controller for connection, make sure it’s turned off first. If it’s on, press and hold the PS button until it powers down.
2. Now, it’s time to put the controller into pairing mode. To do this, hold down the PS Button (the circular button in the center) and the Share Button (the small button on the left side of the touchpad) simultaneously.
3. Continue holding both buttons until the light bar starts flashing. This indicates that your controller is now in pairing mode and ready to connect.

Step 3: Connect PS4 Controller to PS5

1. Go back to your PS5 Bluetooth Accessories menu that you accessed earlier.
2. You should see your PS4 controller listed as a discovery device. Select it to initiate the connection.
3. Your PS5 may prompt you to select a controller type. Choose DualShock 4 from the options, then hit Yes to confirm your choice.
4. If the pairing is successful, you’ll see a confirmation message, and the controller will be connected to your PS5.

Playing PS4 Games with Your PS4 Controller

Once you’ve successfully connected your PS4 controller to your PS5, you can use it to play any PS4 games you’ve downloaded or inserted into your console.

Benefits of Using DualShock 4 for PS4 Games

Using the PS4 controller enhances your gameplay experience for several reasons:

• Familiar Feel: If you’ve spent countless hours playing on the PS4, the familiarity of the DualShock 4 can enhance your gaming experience.

• Simplicity: You won’t need to learn how to use a new controller setup if you’re already accustomed to the PS4 design and layout.

• Convenience: You can keep using your existing PS4 controllers until you decide to switch over completely to PS5 gaming.

Important Notes

PS5 Games and Controller Compatibility

It’s important to note that while you can use the PS4 controller to play PS4 games on your PS5, it is not compatible with PS5 games. If you want to enjoy the full suite of features available on PS5 titles, you will need to use the DualSense controller. The DualSense controller offers unique functionalities like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, enhancing the gaming experience specifically designed for new-gen games.

How to Disconnect the Controller

If you ever want to disconnect your PS4 controller from the PS5, follow these simple steps:

1. Go to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories.
2. Find your PS4 controller in the device list.
3. Select the controller and click on Forget Device to disconnect it.

Conclusion

Connecting your PS4 controller to your PS5 is an easy and straightforward process that allows you to maintain your gaming comfort and flexibility. Whether you want to use your PS4 controller as a backup, for multiplayer gaming sessions, or simply because it feels better in your hands, following the steps outlined in this guide will have you playing in no time.

So, grab your PS4 controller and enjoy gaming on your PS5! Happy gaming!