Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →For a PS5-format game on PS5, use a DualSense wireless controller: PlayStation says PS5 games can only be played with DualSense. A DUALSHOCK 4 works on a PS4 console and with supported PS4-format games on PS5, but not with PS5-format games. Third-party controllers depend on their type, model and game.
Compatibility depends on both the console and the game
A controller’s compatibility is not determined by the console alone. On PS5, first check whether the game is the PS4 or PS5 version. PlayStation’s backward-compatibility guidance says PS5 games can only be played with DualSense wireless controllers. For supported PS4 games running on PS5, DualSense and DUALSHOCK 4 are both options, as are some officially licensed third-party gamepads.
On a PS4 console, PlayStation’s DUALSHOCK 4 pairing guidance covers that controller. The sources cited here do not establish DualSense compatibility with the PS4 console, so do not assume a DualSense will work there.
Controller compatibility at a glance
| Controller | PS4 console | PS4 game on PS5 | PS5 game on PS5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| DualSense wireless controller | Not established by the cited PlayStation guidance | Supported PS4 games | Yes |
| DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller | Yes | Supported PS4 games | No |
| Officially licensed third-party standard gamepad | Check the specific model with its manufacturer | Supported PS4 games, subject to compatibility | No, under PlayStation’s stated rule for PS5 games |
| Licensed specialty peripheral, such as a racing wheel or arcade stick | Model- and game-dependent | Supported PS4 games, subject to compatibility | May work when supported by the device and game |
| Older PS, PS2 or PS3 controller | Not established as generally compatible | Not established | No general PS5 support |
“Supported PS4 games” is an important qualification: PlayStation warns that some games or functions may behave differently on PS5. Its page describes the PS4 library as more than 4,000 games playable on PS5; that is a library figure, not a count of games that work with every controller. For older PlayStation controllers, Sony’s PS5 safety guide says earlier-generation controllers, including DUALSHOCK 3, are not compatible with PS5.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute#1 Best Overall
- 👉️【Usage Notes】When using the gamepad for the first time, it needs to be connected to the PS5 console via a USB-C cable（It must be the data cable included in the package or the original data cable）, and then press the Home button to activate it. If your controller has any functional issues, please use this url to update the firmware: we.tl/t-yAwofXJL9YOyyq3K !!! The gamepad is only compatible with PS5 series consoles and Windows PCs, and it is not compatible with PS4.
- 👋【Quick Connection & One - click Wake - up】 You can connect to the PS5 console by pressing the HOME button on the controller. When connecting to the console for the first time, you need to use a data cable. It also supports use on computers with Windows operating systems.
- 🎮️【Controller with Sound】 The controller is capable of producing sound, providing an immersive gaming experience. Please note that the controller is only equipped with a speaker and has no microphone. If you want to use the microphone fuacnction, please use an external headset. It is equipped with a 3.5mm TRRS headphone jack（not compatible with Apple headphones.）
- 🌈【Customizable Colors】Press the Lighting button to switch colors and light effect modes with one click. It features a color memory function, ensuring that the next time you use it, it will still be the color you prefer.
- 🕹️【High - Precision Joysticks】Equipped with upgraded joysticks, these effectively reduce the joystick dead zone and extend the controller's service life.
What to use for each situation
Playing a PS5-format game on PS5
Choose a DualSense wireless controller. PlayStation’s rule is specific to PS5 games: they can only be played with DualSense wireless controllers. A DUALSHOCK 4 or a standard third-party gamepad is not a substitute for this purpose.
Playing a PS4-format game on PS5
DualSense and DUALSHOCK 4 can both be used with supported PS4 games. Officially licensed third-party gamepads may also work, but PlayStation cautions that not all licensed or third-party controllers work on PS5. Check both the controller’s compatibility information and the game’s platform/version before buying or connecting one.
Rank #2
- Bring gaming worlds to life - Feel your in-game actions and environment simulated through haptic feedback*. Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers*
- Find your voice, share your passion - Chat online through the built-in microphone. Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack. Record and broadcast your epic gaming moments with the create button
- A gaming icon in your hands - Enjoy a comfortable, evolved design with an iconic layout and enhanced sticks. Hear higher-fidelity** sound effects through the built-in speaker in supported games
- Multi-device connectivity - Connect using a USB Type-C cable or Bluetooth technology and easily play on more devices including Windows PC and Mac computers.
- Elevate PC gaming with advanced features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in a range of blockbuster PC titles.
Playing on a PS4 console
DUALSHOCK 4 is the controller covered by PlayStation’s PS4 pairing instructions. The cited official sources do not establish DualSense as compatible with the PS4 console; if you need a PS4 controller, choose a DUALSHOCK 4 or verify a third-party model with its maker.
Using a wheel, arcade stick or other specialty peripheral
Specialty devices are not equivalent to ordinary gamepads. A licensed racing wheel, arcade stick or flight stick may work with a PS5 game when the particular title and device support it. Confirm the exact model and game with the manufacturer rather than relying on the word “licensed” alone.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- Haptic feedback - Feel physically responsive feedback to your in-game actions with dual actuators which replace traditional rumble motors. In your hands, these dynamic vibrations can simulate the feeling of everything from environments to the recoil of different weapons. .Operating temperature : 41 °F to 95 °F (5 °C to 35 °C)
- Adaptive triggers - Experience varying levels of force and tension as you interact with your in-game gear and environments. From pulling back an increasingly tight bowstring to hitting the brakes on a speeding car, feel physically connected to your on-screen actions.
- Built-in microphone and headset jack - Chat with friends online using the built-in microphone or by connecting a headset to the 3.5mm jack. Easily switch voice capture on and off at a moment’s notice with the dedicated mute button. Internet and account for PlayStation Network required.
- DualSense Controller PS5 and PC compatible. Not compatible with PS4.
- PS Remote Play requires Remote Play App connected to Wi-Fi, PS4 or PS5 console with the latest system software and compatible game. A PS4 or PS5 console with a wired connection via a LAN cable is recommended. Version 4.0 of the Remote Play App on iOS and iPadOS or version 4.1 on macOS is required for games to be playable with the controller over Bluetooth.
Pair a DUALSHOCK 4 with a console
- Turn on the console.
- Connect the DUALSHOCK 4 to it with a USB cable.
- Press the controller’s PS button to pair it.
- After it has sufficient battery charge, disconnect the cable to use it wirelessly.
PlayStation’s pairing page says a DUALSHOCK 4 pairs with one console at a time and that up to four controllers can be connected to a console.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Connection & Wake-up】When using the gamepad for the first time, it needs to be connected to the PS5 console via a USB-C cable（It must be the data cable included in the package or the original data cable）, and then press the Home button to activate it. After completing the first connection, you only need to press the HOME button to turn on the PS5 console. The gamepad is compatible with PS5 series consoles and Windows PCs, and it is not compatible with PS4.
- 【Controller with Sound】The controller is capable of producing sound, providing an immersive gaming experience. Please note that the controller is only equipped with a speaker and has no microphone. If you want to use the microphone function, please use an external headset. It is equipped with a 3.5mm TRRS headphone jack（not compatible with Apple headphones.）
- 【Customizable Colors】Press the Lighting button to switch colors and light effect modes with one click. It features a color memory function, ensuring that the next time you use it, it will still be the color you prefer.
- 【High - Precision Joysticks】Equipped with upgraded joysticks, these effectively reduce the joystick dead zone and extend the controller's service life.
- 【Multiple Functions】10 times/second Turbo function can be set, supporting up to 16 keys programming, making your gaming experience even better.
Rank #4
- ❗❗❗Tips：Due to a recent PS5 system update, vibration and controller speaker functions of our controllers may be temporarily unavailable.. No need to worry—your controller is not defective. This is a system compatibility issue that may be resolved through a future PS5 update
- 【Designed for PS5 Console Compatibility】Our PS5 wireless controller is specially designed to work seamlessly with the PS5 console. It pairs effortlessly and delivers stable performance across a wide range of PS5 games. Players can enjoy smooth gameplay with intuitive button layouts and responsive control functions, offering a true next-gen gaming experience
- 【Ergonomic Design with Immersive LED Light Effects】This PS5 controller is designed with player comfort in mind. It has a balanced weight and a comfortable grip, effectively reducing fatigue even during long gaming sessions. The built-in LED lighting system offers vibrant, customizable color effects that enhance the visual atmosphere and bring more excitement to your gaming setup
- 【Advanced Bluetooth Connection】Our PS5 wireless controller uses the latest Bluetooth technology to ensure a stable and fast wireless connection with your PS5 system.The setup process is quick and simple—just pair once and enjoy reliable communication without cables. The enhanced transmission performance minimizes interference and ensures consistent control, even during fast-paced action games
- 【Ultra-Low Latency and High-Precision Control】Built for accuracy and responsiveness, this controller features highly sensitive analog sticks and precision triggers for refined control. Every movement and command registers instantly with minimal delay, giving players a competitive edge in shooting, racing, or sports games. The optimized chip design helps maintain low input lag for a fluid, real-time response
Check third-party compatibility before you buy
- Confirm the exact controller model, not just its brand or license status.
- Check whether the device supports the console and the game’s specific PS4 or PS5 version.
- For specialty peripherals, verify the game title as well as the device; support can vary by both.
- Use the manufacturer’s current compatibility information. PlayStation does not publish a complete model-by-model list for every controller and game.
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.
