PS5 controllers will not connect to a PS4, even though both use wireless technology

The PS5 DualSense controller and PS4 DualShock 4 controller use different wireless protocols. The PS5 uses a newer standard that the PS4 hardware cannot recognize or communicate with. This is a hardware limitation, not a software one — no update will make it work. If you plug a PS5 controller into a PS4 with a USB cable, the PS4 will charge it but will not recognize it as an input device.

Sony built the PS4 to work only with controllers designed for that console. The PS5 was designed to be backward compatible with PS4 games, but that compatibility does not extend to PS5 controllers working on older hardware. The reverse is also true: PS4 controllers work on PS5, but PS5 controllers do not work on PS4.

Key Takeaways

  • PS5 DualSense controllers cannot connect to PS4 consoles wirelessly or through USB, because the PS4 does not support the PS5's wireless protocol.
  • PS4 DualShock 4 controllers work on PS5 for most games, so if you own both consoles, you can use your existing PS4 controllers on the newer system.
  • If you need a second controller for your PS4, buying a DualShock 4 is the only wireless option that will work reliably.
  • Some third-party controllers designed for PS4 will work on PS5, but always check the product listing to confirm PS5 compatibility before purchasing.

Why the wireless connection is incompatible

The PS5 DualSense uses a different wireless frequency and handshake protocol than the PS4 DualShock 4. When you hold the pairing button on a PS5 controller, it broadcasts a signal that only a PS5 console knows how to receive and decode. A PS4 console straightforward does not have the receiver hardware to pick up that signal.

This is similar to how a television remote from 2010 will not control a 2024 television, even if both use infrared. The newer device uses a different code system. The PS4 was released in 2013, and the PS5 in 2020 — Sony redesigned the controller connection from the ground up for the newer console.

Plugging a PS5 controller into a PS4 with a USB cable will charge the controller's battery, but the PS4 will not recognize it as a game controller. The USB connection only provides power, not data communication.

What controllers actually work on PS4

The PS4 recognizes DualShock 4 controllers and certain licensed third-party controllers that were built to the PS4 standard. The official DualShock 4 comes in multiple colors and is the most reliable option. You can buy it new from retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, or GameStop, or used from resale platforms.

Some third-party brands like PowerA and PDP make PS4 controllers that work wirelessly. Before buying any third-party controller, check the product page or box to confirm it says "PS4 compatible" or "works with PS4" — do not assume a generic wireless controller will work.

If you already own a PS5 controller and want to use it on PS4, your only option is to use a third-party adapter. These adapters are sold online and claim to convert PS5 controller signals to PS4 format, but they are not officially supported by Sony and results vary widely. Most people find them unreliable.

How to connect a DualShock 4 to your PS4

To pair a new DualShock 4 controller wirelessly, plug it into your PS4 with a USB cable. The PS4 will recognize it and add it to your account. Once paired, you can disconnect the cable and use the controller wirelessly — the PS4 will remember it.

If you are reconnecting a controller that was previously paired, hold the PS button in the center of the controller. The PS4 will find it and connect automatically. If the controller does not connect, try plugging it in again and waiting 10 seconds before unplugging.

You can pair up to four controllers to a single PS4. Each controller can be assigned to a different user account on the console.

PS4 controllers work on PS5, but with limits

If you own both a PS4 and PS5, you can use your DualShock 4 controllers on the PS5. They connect wirelessly and work for most PS5 games. However, some PS5 games that were designed specifically for the DualSense's advanced features — like the haptic feedback and adaptive triggers — may not work fully with a PS4 controller.

Games like Astro's Playroom and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart are built around DualSense features and will not let you use a PS4 controller at all. Before you buy a PS5 game, check the store page to see if it requires a DualSense controller. Most third-party games work fine with either controller.

To connect a PS4 controller to a PS5, hold the PS button until the light bar flashes, then go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers on your PS5 and select the controller from the list.

Alternatives if you need a second controller for PS4

If you need an extra controller for your PS4 right now, your best option is to buy a DualShock 4. New ones cost around $60 to $70, and used ones are often available for $30 to $50. Check the condition carefully if buying used — the analog sticks wear out with heavy use.

Some retailers sell DualShock 4 controllers in different colors or special editions. These work exactly the same as the standard black version. If you find a color you like, there is no downside to buying it.

If you want to save money, look for refurbished DualShock 4 controllers sold by retailers like Best Buy or Amazon Warehouse. These are returned items that have been tested and cleaned. They usually come with a shorter warranty than new controllers but work the same way.

What happens if you try to use a PS5 controller on PS4

If you connect a PS5 DualSense controller to a PS4 with a USB cable, the console will recognize that something is plugged in and will charge it. The controller's light bar will turn on. However, when you try to press buttons to navigate the PS4 menu or start a game, nothing will happen. The PS4 cannot read the button inputs.

The PS4 will not show an error message or tell you the controller is incompatible. It will straightforward ignore all button presses. This can be confusing if you are not expecting it. If this happens to you, unplug the PS5 controller and plug in a DualShock 4 instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a PS5 controller on PS4 if I update the PS4 software?

No. The PS4 hardware does not have the receiver needed to pick up the PS5 controller's wireless signal. A software update cannot add hardware that does not exist. Sony has not released any update that enables this, and it is not technically possible.

Will a PS5 controller work on PS4 if I use a USB cable?

The PS4 will charge a PS5 controller through USB, but will not recognize button inputs. The USB connection only provides power, not data communication. You need a DualShock 4 or compatible third-party controller to actually play games on PS4.

Do third-party adapters that convert PS5 controllers to PS4 actually work?

Some adapters claim to convert PS5 controller signals to PS4 format, but they are not officially supported by Sony and results are inconsistent. Most users report lag, dropped connections, or buttons that do not respond. A DualShock 4 is more reliable and costs about the same.

If I buy a PS5 later, can I use my PS4 controllers on it?

Yes. PS4 DualShock 4 controllers work wirelessly on PS5 for most games. Some PS5 games that use advanced DualSense features will not work with a PS4 controller, so check the game's store page before buying. For most third-party games, either controller works fine.

What is the cheapest way to get a second PS4 controller?

Used DualShock 4 controllers are usually $30 to $50 and work the same as new ones. Check the analog sticks for wear before buying. Refurbished controllers from retailers like Best Buy or Amazon Warehouse are also cheaper than new and come with a warranty.