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The original DUALSHOCK 4 is model CUH-ZCT1; the later revision is the CUH-ZCT2 series. Sony confirmed two practical changes for CUH-ZCT2: its light bar shines through the top of the touchpad, and it can communicate with a PS4 over USB as well as Bluetooth. The model code is the surest way to identify a controller; “V1” and “V2” are common shorthand.
What changed between the two revisions?
| Feature | CUH-ZCT1 (commonly V1) | CUH-ZCT2 (commonly V2) |
|---|---|---|
| Model identifier | CUH-ZCT1, with regional or color variants | CUH-ZCT2 series, with suffix variants |
| Light bar | Has a light bar; Sony does not describe light passing through the touchpad | Light shines through the top of the touchpad as a visible strip |
| Controller communication | Sony’s original specification lists Bluetooth; it does not identify wired controller communication as a feature | Sony explicitly says it supports USB communication as well as Bluetooth |
| Battery capacity | 1000 mAh in Sony’s original specification | 1000 mAh in Sony’s CUH-ZCT2G manual |
| Battery runtime | No comparative runtime figure established | No comparative runtime figure established; Sony says runtime varies with age, use, storage and environmental factors |
| Core controls | Standard DUALSHOCK 4 control set | Same principal control set; Sony announced a revision, not a new controller generation |
Sony announced the CUH-ZCT2 series on September 8, 2016, with availability in Japan, North America and Europe beginning September 15, 2016. The touchpad light strip and USB communication are the manufacturer-confirmed differences. Sony’s announcement describes USB communication in addition to Bluetooth.
How to tell whether your controller is V1 or V2
- Check the rear label. CUH-ZCT1 identifies the original revision; CUH-ZCT2 identifies the later series. Suffixes can vary by region or version.
- If the label is missing, look at the touchpad. On CUH-ZCT2, light from the light bar shows through the top of the touchpad as a narrow strip.
Color alone is not a dependable test: finishes and button colors can vary, and Sony does not document color as a universal revision identifier. Sony’s original CUH-ZCT1 specification identifies the earlier model, while its later announcement describes the touchpad light change.
Does the V2 work wired?
Yes. Sony says CUH-ZCT2 communicates with a PS4 over USB as well as Bluetooth. For wired controller input, use a USB cable that carries data; a charge-only cable may power the controller without providing data communication. Sony’s CUH-ZCT2U manual covers USB connection for pairing and charging, but that guidance alone is not evidence of wired input support—the revision announcement is.
#1 Best Overall
- The feel, shape, and sensitivity of the dual analog sticks and trigger buttons have been improved to provide a greater sense of control, no matter what you play.Motion sensors - Rock and roll as a highly sensitive built-in accelerometer and gyroscope detect the motion, tilt and rotation of your DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controllerDualShock 4 Wireless Controller PS4 and PC compatible. Item PS5 compatible only when playing PS4 games.
- The new multi touch and clickable touch pad on the face of the DualShock 4 Wireless Controller opens up worlds of new gameplay possibilities for both newcomers and veteran gamers
- The DualShock 4 Wireless Controller features a built in speaker and stereo headset jack, putting several new audio options in the player's hands
- The Dualshock 4 wireless controller can be easily recharged by plugging it into your PlayStation 4 system, even when in rest mode, or with any standard charger using a USB cable (type A to micro B sold separately)
Does V2 have better battery life or improved controls?
Sony lists 1000 mAh for the original CUH-ZCT1 and for CUH-ZCT2G in its instruction manual. Those capacity figures do not establish equal runtime, and the official sources provide no controlled V1-versus-V2 battery-life comparison. They therefore do not support a claim that V2 lasts longer. Sony also did not announce improved triggers or analog sticks; such upgrades should not be treated as manufacturer-confirmed differences.
The published weight is approximately 210 g for both revisions in Sony’s specifications. These are manufacturer figures, not independent measurements.
Rank #2
- Precision Control: The feel, shape, and sensitivity of the DualShock 4’s analog sticks and trigger buttons have been enhanced to offer players absolute control for all games on PlayStation 4.
- Sharing at your Fingertips: The addition of the Share button makes sharing your greatest gaming moments as easy as a push of a button. Upload gameplay videos and screenshots directly from your system or live-stream your gameplay, all without disturbing the game in progress.
- New ways to Play: Revolutionary features like the touch pad, integrated light bar, and built-in speaker offer exciting new ways to experience and interact with your games and its 3.5mm audio jack offers a practical personal audio solution for gamers who want to listen to their games in private.
- Charge Efficiently: The DualShock 4 Wireless Controller can easily be recharged by plugging it into your PlayStation 4 system, even when on standby, or with any standard charger with a micro-USB port.
Will CUH-ZCT2 work with a PC, phone or other Sony device?
Compatibility depends on the host device, operating system and application, not just the controller revision. PlayStation’s connection guidance covers Bluetooth and USB on supported systems, but lists Bluetooth feature limitations on non-Xperia devices, including the touchpad, adjustable light-bar color, rumble, motion sensing and headphone-jack audio. The touchpad light strip does not guarantee that every controller feature will work on every computer, phone, TV or game.
There are also model-specific exceptions. Sony’s compatibility notice says certain BRAVIA TVs and Blu-ray players do not support CUH-ZCT2Uxx and directs users of those devices to CUH-ZCT1Uxx. For a less common host-device question, check the exact device model and the controller’s regional suffix.
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Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Wireless Connectivity: The DualShock 4 controller uses Bluetooth technology for wireless gameplay.
- PlayStation Compatibility: This controller is specifically designed for use with the PlayStation 4 console.
- Vibration Feedback: The controller's built-in rumble feature provides tactile feedback during gameplay.
- Adjustable Controls: The controller has customizable button layouts and analog sticks to suit your preferences.
- Long Battery Life: The controller is battery-powered and can provide up to 10 hours of gameplay on a single charge.
Rank #3
- The feel, shape, and sensitivity of the dual analog sticks and trigger buttons have been improved to provide a greater sense of control, no matter what you play
What to check when buying a used controller
- Ask for a clear photo of the rear label and confirm the model code is CUH-ZCT2 if you specifically want the later revision.
- Check the actual controller’s condition and authenticity; a listing title or color is not a substitute for the model code.
- Confirm the regional suffix if you need compatibility with a particular TV, Blu-ray player or other device.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
