Can You Use Any Controller on PS Remote Play?
Yes! PlayStation‘s Remote Play feature offers surprisingly robust controller compatibility – extending beyond just DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers. With some configuration, you can even use Xbox controllers and other third-party options. Keep reading and I‘ll break down exactly how to make different controllers work with Remote Play across various devices.
PlayStation Controllers
PlayStation controllers unsurprisingly offer the most seamless PS Remote Play experience across all major platforms.
DualShock 4
The DualShock 4 wireless controller enables Remote Play connectivity via Bluetooth or wired USB on:
- Android devices
- iOS devices
- Windows PCs/laptops
- Macs
Gamers have logged over 5 billion hours on PS4 as of December 2022 [1], so chances are you already own at least one DualShock 4. This makes it the easiest route for playing your PS4 or PS5 remotely.
DualSense
Sony‘s next-gen DualSense controller is also Remote Play-ready. Its compatibility includes:
- Android devices (Android 12 OS or newer) via Bluetooth
- iOS devices connected by wire/USB
- Windows PCs/laptops through a wired connection
- Macs via wired connectivity
Early indications suggest strong adoption of the tactile DualSense controller. I‘m betting wireless Bluetooth support comes to more platforms soon.
Xbox Controllers
Believe it or not, Microsoft‘s Xbox controllers can also work with PlayStation Remote Play. This does require a compatible smartphone as a "middleman" between the controller and console though.
Here are the steps:
- Connect your phone to the PS4/PS5 via the Remote Play app
- Pair your Xbox controller with your phone using Bluetooth
- The phone essentially translates the Xbox inputs into PlayStation inputs before routing them to the PS4/PS5
Based on user reports, both Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S controllers function using this method [2]. Even the premium Xbox Elite Series 2 controller is supported.
Note: Xbox controller support for PS Remote Play requires an Android 11+ or iOS 14+ device.
Third-Party Controllers
Specialized mobile/cloud gaming controllers like the Razer Kishi are designed specifically with Remote Play in mind. These controllers physically connect your phone to create a Nintendo Switch-style mobile gameplay experience.
Other generic Bluetooth controllers may also be compatible with Remote Play depending on your device OS and specific model. As of May 2022, 54% of total controllers owned were first-party and 36% third-party [3]. So chances are you can make what you already own work.
The Bottom Line
PlayStation controllers offer the widest cross-platform compatibility, but Xbox and mobile controllers provide Remote Play options too. Plus, official wireless support seems likely to keep expanding over time.
Here‘s a summary comparison:
| Controller Type | Platform Compatibility | Connection Types |
|---|---|---|
| DualShock 4 | Android, iOS, Windows, Mac | Bluetooth, Wired |
| DualSense | Android, iOS, Windows, Mac* | Bluetooth**, Wired |
| Xbox (One, Series X/S) | Android, iOS | Bluetooth*** |
| Third-Party (Razer, Other) | Variable | Variable |
* Limited Platform Support Currently
** Android 12+ Only Currently
*** Requires Phone Passthrough
So don‘t feel limited if you lack an extra PlayStation controller on hand. With some creativity, you can enable awesome Xbox and third-party controllers to work with PS Remote Play too! I‘ll be keeping an eye out for any new hardware or software updates that might expand compatibility moving forward.
Let me know on Twitter [@MyGamerHandle] what your favorite controller setup is for Remote Play!
Sources:
[1] https://gamerant.com/playstation-stats-2022-hours-played-games-purchased/
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/xboxone/comments/lycv65/using_xbox_controller_on_ps5ps4_remote_play/
[3] https://www.npd.com/news/press-releases/2022/npd-the-console-controller-and-vr-markets-grew-sales-in-2021/)
