Upgrading to the PlayStation 5 is an exciting leap — faster load times, advanced haptic technology, richer visuals, and a more immersive gameplay experience. But with new hardware also comes a familiar question for anyone with a collection of accessories from the previous console generation:
Can you use a PS4 controller on a PS5?
At first glance, the answer seems simple. Yes… But also no. And the nuance behind that distinction matters — especially if you own several DualShock 4 controllers, regularly host multiplayer sessions, or simply want a cheaper backup controller without buying an extra DualSense.
This long-form guide explores exactly how PS4 controllers work on a PS5, why Sony restricts certain functions, what games are compatible, the technical reasons behind the limitation, and whether using older controllers is still worth it in 2025.
The Short Answer
Before diving in, here’s the essential summary in plain English:
- Yes, you can use a PS4 controller (DualShock 4) on a PS5
- But only for PS4 games — including digital games, disc-based backward-compatible titles, and PS4 versions of cross-gen games
- No, you cannot use a PS4 controller to play PS5-native games
- The restriction is intentional and tied to PS5-exclusive features that the DualShock 4 lacks
Now, let’s break all this down in depth.
Why the PS4 Controller Works on a PS5 — But Only Sometimes
Sony officially supports PS4 controllers on the PS5 only for backward-compatible PS4 games. In practical terms, this means you can download or install a PS4 title and play it exactly as you would on a PlayStation 4.
Why does Sony allow that?
Because the PS5 includes built-in backward compatibility and treats PS4 games as “legacy format titles.” These games do not rely on the PS5’s advanced feedback system, adaptive triggers, or other unique DualSense-based features — so the DualShock 4 works without issue.
But why block PS5 games from using the PS4 controller?
This is where the design philosophy becomes clear:
PS5 games are built around features the PS4 controller simply doesn’t have.
The DualSense controller was introduced:
- Adaptive triggers with dynamic resistance
- Advanced haptic feedback designed to simulate textures, impacts, and weather
- Improved motion sensors
- A more responsive touchpad
- An enhanced microphone array
- Faster and more reliable wireless communication
Sony’s official stance is that letting players use a PS4 controller on PS5 games would result in an inferior and inconsistent experience. Developers build PS5 gameplay with the DualSense in mind — especially in titles like Astro’s Playroom, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Returnal, and Demon’s Souls.
A More Detailed Look at Compatibility
Compatibility depends on one simple distinction:
- PS4 Game = PS4 Controller Works
- PS5 Game = PS4 Controller Does Not Work
Let’s explore each scenario in detail.
1. Playing PS4 Games on PS5 With a PS4 Controller (Fully Supported)
The PS5 allows you to play nearly the entire library of PS4 games — over 4,000 titles — and the DualShock 4 works flawlessly with them.
Supported Examples
- God of War (2018)
- The Last of Us Part II
- Persona 5 Royal (PS4 version)
- Apex Legends (PS4 version)
- Fortnite (PS4 version)
- Any PS4 game you previously purchased digitally
If you are playing via Remote Play, the DualShock 4 also works perfectly.
Local Multiplayer Works Too
If you’re hosting a couch co-op night and want to use your old PS4 controllers:
✔ You can — but only if the game is a PS4 title
✘ You cannot for PS5-exclusive titles
This makes the PS4 controller a cost-effective option for group gaming sessions when sticking to PS4 editions of games.
2. Playing PS5 Games With a PS4 Controller (Not Supported)
Whenever you launch a PS5-native title with a PS4 controller paired, you will see a message like:
“DualShock 4 is not supported for PS5 games.”
This includes games such as:
- Spider-Man 2
- Final Fantasy XVI
- Horizon Forbidden West (PS5 version)
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (PS5 version)
- Demon’s Souls (PS5)
Even cross-gen games will block usage if you choose the PS5 version.
Connecting a PS4 Controller to a PS5: Step-by-Step
Even though the DualShock 4 is limited, pairing it is extremely simple. You can connect it via USB cable or via Bluetooth.
Method 1: Wired Setup (Fastest and Most Reliable)
- Plug your DualShock 4 into the PS5 using a USB-A to micro-USB cable.
- Press the PS button on the controller.
- Select your user profile.
That’s it — the PS4 controller is now paired and can be used wirelessly afterward.
Method 2: Bluetooth Pairing (Wireless Setup)
- Go to Settings
- Select Accessories
- Open Bluetooth Accessories
- On the DualShock 4, hold the PS Button + Share Button until the light flashes
- Select “Wireless Controller” when it appears on screen
Your controller is now paired.
Why Sony’s Restriction Actually Makes Sense (A Technical Breakdown)
Many players initially criticized Sony for blocking PS4 controllers in PS5-native titles. But under the hood, gameplay on PS5 is engineered around more than just better graphics — it’s built around new forms of input and sensory feedback.
Here’s a closer look at what the DualShock 4 cannot replicate.
1. Adaptive Triggers
The PS5’s L2/R2 triggers offer dynamic resistance. They can:
- Tighten as you draw a bow
- Lock when a weapon jams
- Add pressure when driving through mud
- Simulate the stiffness of machinery
DualShock 4 triggers do not have motors or variable tension systems.
2. Advanced Haptic Feedback
The DualSense features a complex grid of haptic motors that can simulate:
- Sand
- Raindrops
- Footsteps
- Ice
- Energy pulses
- Recoil
PS4 controllers rely on basic rumble motors, a major downgrade.
3. Improved Motion Detection
PS5 games can use more accurate motion sensors for gameplay and camera control.
4. Built-In Microphone Arrays
The DualSense microphone is integrated into the gameplay experience of some PS5 titles — again, something the DualShock 4 lacks.
5. Developer Intent
Developers craft experiences tailored to the DualSense. Sony maintains that allowing PS4 controllers would fragment the gameplay experience and limit design innovation.
Does Using a PS4 Controller Affect Performance?
Not significantly — as long as you’re playing PS4 games.
Frame rates, resolution, and gameplay are unaffected. For PS4 titles that run in PS5 Boost Mode, you will still enjoy:
- Better load times
- Higher frame rate caps
- More stable performance
Even with a PS4 controller connected.
Should You Buy PS4 Controllers in 2025 If You Own a PS5?
Surprisingly… maybe.
Although you can’t use them for PS5-native games, PS4 controllers can still be useful:
✔ For multiplayer sessions
PS4 titles allow multiple DualShock 4 controllers. Buying more DualSense controllers is more expensive.
✔ For Remote Play across devices
PS4 controllers pair smoothly with:
- PCs
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- PS Remote Play apps
- PlayStation Portal
✔ For budget-friendly backups
If you play a lot of PS4 backward-compatible games, you don’t need extra DualSense controllers.
✔ For children or casual players
Cheaper controllers = less stress about damage.
However, if you prefer PS5 exclusives, a DualSense or DualSense Edge is essential.
Third-Party PS4 Controllers on PS5
Licensed third-party PS4 controllers follow the same rules:
- Work with PS4 games
- Do not work with PS5 games
This includes brands like:
- Nacon
- HORI
- Razer
- Scuf (PS4 versions)
Cheap, unlicensed knockoffs may not function at all.
Using PS4 Controllers on a PS5: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Saves money
- Great for local multiplayer (PS4 games)
- Works with the entire PS4 library
- Compatible with Remote Play
- No input lag issues when wired
- Lightweight and familiar
Cons
- Cannot play PS5 games
- No adaptive triggers or advanced haptics
- Some players prefer the feel of the DualSense
- Limited long-term usefulness as more PS5-only games are released
Future of Compatibility: Will Sony Ever Allow PS4 Controllers for PS5 Games?
Extremely unlikely.
Sony has consistently emphasized the importance of the DualSense as a core part of the PS5 identity. Unless the company releases an update that “emulates” DualSense features — something that would diminish the PS5 experience — the restriction will remain in place.
Final Verdict: Can You Use PS4 Controllers on PS5?
Yes — but only for PS4 games.
You can comfortably use the DualShock 4 on a PS5 when playing any backward-compatible PS4 title, and it works beautifully.
No, you cannot use a PS4 controller for PS5 games.
PS5-native titles require the DualSense to ensure the gameplay experience uses the console’s advanced technology.
If you primarily play PS4 games or need extra controllers for multiplayer, your PS4 controllers still have real value. But for the full PS5 experience, the DualSense is essential.
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