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Yes, but only for some games. A DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller works on PS5 with supported PS4 games. It does not work with PS5-format games, which PlayStation says require the DualSense wireless controller. The deciding factor is the version of the game you are running, not the console by itself.
Which games accept a DUALSHOCK 4 on PS5
PlayStation’s FAQ, dated November 9, 2020, says that for PS4 games played on PS5, players can use either the DUALSHOCK 4 or the DualSense wireless controller. The same FAQ states that PS5 games require the DualSense, because they are designed to take advantage of its features. PlayStation’s current support guidance, checked in October 2026, lists DUALSHOCK 4 and DualSense for supported PS4 games.
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In practice, the controller is compatible with the PS5 console for one category of software, not with every game installed on it. A PS4 game playing on PS5 can use a DUALSHOCK 4. The PS5 edition of that same title cannot.
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Two copies of a franchise can give different results on PS5 because they are different software formats. Before you assume a controller will work, check these points:
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
- Is the game a PS4 title? A PS4 game running on PS5 is the case where DUALSHOCK 4 support applies.
- Is the game a PS5 title? A PS5-format game requires the DualSense. A DUALSHOCK 4 will not work for it.
- Is the PS4 game on the supported list? PlayStation’s support guidance describes DUALSHOCK 4 support for supported PS4 games, so support is not automatic for every PS4 title.
If you own both a PS4 and a PS5 version of a game, the PS4 version is the one that may accept a DUALSHOCK 4. Store listings and game packaging usually identify the format, so read those before buying a controller for a specific title.
Compatibility at a glance
| Situation | DUALSHOCK 4 on PS5 | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Supported PS4 game played on PS5 | Supported | PlayStation’s FAQ (November 9, 2020) and current support guidance (checked October 2026) both allow it. |
| PS5-format game | Not supported | PlayStation’s FAQ states that these games require the DualSense wireless controller. |
| Officially licensed third-party gamepad with a supported PS4 game | Supported when the game is supported | PlayStation’s guidance does not extend this to every product or title. Check the specific model and game. |
| Racing wheel, arcade stick, or flight stick | Not applicable: these are separate peripherals | Support depends on the device’s license and the game. PlayStation’s August 2020 peripheral guidance covers officially licensed devices and warns that not every licensed or third-party accessory is compatible. |
| Remote Play on a compatible device | Listed as an available Remote Play controller | Remote Play has its own device and game restrictions, and it is a separate setup from playing on the console. |
Licensed third-party pads and specialty controllers
Officially licensed third-party gamepads
PlayStation says officially licensed third-party gamepads work with supported PS4 games on PS5. That statement does not mean every product will work with every title. A pad that is licensed still needs to match the game’s format and support status, so confirm both before you buy.
Rank #2
- Ultra Customizable Controls
- Mappable Back Buttons
- DualSense Wireless Controller Features Built In
- Replaceable Stick Modules and Caps
Racing wheels, arcade sticks, and flight sticks
PlayStation identifies officially licensed racing wheels, arcade sticks, and flight sticks as peripherals that can work with PS5 and supported PS4 games. Those devices fall under separate rules from standard controllers. Their compatibility should not be read as proof that a standard pad works universally, and the same caution applies: not every licensed or third-party accessory is compatible.
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Remote Play lets you stream a PS4 or PS5 game to a compatible device. PlayStation’s support page lists DUALSHOCK 4 as an available Remote Play controller on those devices. That listing does not make every game or device combination work, and it does not extend local console support. If you want to use a DUALSHOCK 4 on the console itself, follow the console rules above.
Rank #3
- Feel you in-game actions and environement simulated through haptic feedback
- Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers
- Chat online through the built-in microphone
- Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack
- Switch voice capture on and off using the dedicated mute button
What the official sources establish, and what they do not
The compatibility rule comes from PlayStation’s own FAQ and current support guidance. The FAQ is dated November 9, 2020, and the support page was checked in October 2026, so confirm current support on PlayStation’s site if a title or accessory is recent. No official compatibility percentage or usage figure is published in these materials, so none should be assumed. Retailer stock, the authenticity of a specific listing, and seller reliability are outside what PlayStation’s guidance covers, so verify those with the retailer directly.
The official wording is clear enough to act on: DUALSHOCK 4 is for supported PS4 games on PS5, and DualSense is for PS5 games.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Enjoy precise, comfortable control over 10,000+ supported Steam games.
- Easily pair the controller directly to your Windows PC via Bluetooth or play as you charge with the included USB Type-C cable
- Stay paired with up to four different Bluetooth devices, making it easy to enjoy the controller across Windows PC, Mac, PS5 consoles and smartphones. Discover more connection tips and tricks at playstation.com/pair-dualsense
- Access the latest available controller firmware directly from your PC with the free-todownload PlayStation Accessories app
- Play games streamed from your PS5 or PS4 console to your PC via the PS Remote Play App
Rank #4
- 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.
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