Because of this, we'd recommend an alternative device.
However, there are easier-to-use controllers out there, and certain ones, like the Xbox controller or DualSense controller, seem more compatible with Android devices. If you have a game that works well with it or allows you to remap the buttons, go nuts. Other titles, such as Genshin Impact, lack native controller support entirely on Android. This made for a pretty awkward and uncomfortable control scheme. For instance, while I could move my character and turn the camera using the analog sticks in Modern Combat 5, the aim and shoot buttons were relegated to the Share and Options buttons, respectively. In testing, we've found that it may not behave quite as well as a dedicated mobile controller or even the Xbox One controller. Ideally, a game would simply let you remap all the buttons like an emulator would, but that's just not the case with most games. Give your favorite games a try and see if they present any issues. Your mileage may vary in actually using a DualShock 4 with your Android device. You might not be able to take advantage of its special features, such as the DualSense haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, but it'll be much easier to buy. Meanwhile, the PS5 controller works with Android. It's also worth considering that with the PS5 now available worldwide, Sony has ceased production of the DualShock 4, meaning new controllers are going to continue to become harder and harder to find and purchase. Some of the best Android game controllers include an Xbox controller or the PS5 Dualsense. There are better choices if you are serious about playing games on your Android phone or tablet.
Should you use a PS4 controller on your Android device? These features include the touchpad, motion sensor, rumble, and even a battery indicator, all of which were previously unavailable. Sony updated the DualShock 4 controller with the launch of Android 12, adding new features for the controller when used on Android. If not, you have an older controller and can't force wired communication.If everything is done correctly, you'll be connected, and the controller can be used to navigate the Android UI, as well as provide extra functionality in some of the best Android games. You'll know you have this model if the light bar is visible inside the touchpad on the front of your controller. However, keep in mind that this only works for the revised model of the PS4 controller.
Use the Controller in Wired Modeīefore you give up on your PS4 controller, you should try playing with it permanently connected via a USB cable and telling your PS4 not to use the wireless Bluetooth connection. If you borrow a friend's DualShock 4 that you know works properly and find that it has issues with your system, something is probably wrong with your PS4's wireless connectivity. It's also a good idea to try using another PS4 controller with your console, if possible. If you have similar problems on a friend's PS4, your PC, or a smartphone, then your controller is likely faulty. Try Connecting the PS4 Controller ElsewhereĪt this point, if you haven't already, you should try connecting the PS4 controller that's having problems to another device. Once you've done this, connect your controller to your PS4 again via USB cable and see if it pairs successfully. Use your pointed tool to press and hold the button inside this hole for roughly five seconds.
You'll see a small hole next to the screw by the L2 button (on the right side of the controller when flipped over). This won't reset anything on your PS4 or affect your controller aside from having to pair it again, so it's a non-intrusive troubleshooting step.įully turn off your PS4, then flip your controller over. You'll need a small pointed object, like a bent paper clip or a SIM card ejection tool, to do this.
If removing and re-pairing the controller didn't work, you can next try the full reset procedure for the DualShock 4. If this doesn't work, turn your PS4 back on and try pairing it the normal way, as above. Hit the PS Button on the controller to hopefully turn on and pair your controller in one process. Once it's shut down, connect the problematic controller to your console with a USB cable. To do this, fully turn off your PS4 (as explained earlier). This is a good time to try a slightly different pairing method: having your PS4 controller re-pair at startup. This will cause your PS4 to remove it from memory so you have to pair it again.
On the resulting menu, press the Options button on your controller and choose Forget Device.