Keep Your PS4 Controller Up-to-Date Without a Console
As a hardcore gamer, keeping my controllers updated with the latest firmware is a top priority. New versions often fix bugs, improve performance, and even add handy new features. But what if you no longer have a PS4 console? Don‘t worry – you can still update your DualShock 4 controller firmware without access to a PlayStation 4 system.
Use a handy Windows PC and trusty USB cable
Connecting your PS4 controller to a Windows 10 or 11 PC via USB allows super simple access to firmware updates. Here‘s a failsafe process:
Plug your controller into any USB 2.0 or 3.0 port using a standard micro-USB cable.
Open the Start menu and search for "Set up USB game controllers" then follow the on-screen prompts. This installs any required drivers.
Windows will automatically check and install any available controller firmware updates! Keep the controller connected throughout.
Some key pointers:
- Don‘t disconnect or power off the PC during updates or you may corrupt the process.
- If you encounter any issues with drivers or the update process, try an alternative USB port or cable.
- Updating wirelessly via Bluetooth currently isn‘t supported.
So if you suddenly find those PS4 controllers drifting or buttons sticking after months in storage, a firmware update could get them back in fighting form.
Harness the magic of Remote Play
If no Windows device is handy, PlayStation Remote Play lets you stream a connected PS4 or PS5 console over the Internet. Once linked up, the console can push across any waiting controller firmware updates. Sweet!
Here‘s how to make it work:
- On your phone, tablet or PC, download and install the PS Remote Play app.
- Log into your PlayStation Network account within the app.
- Follow the pairing process to connect your controller to the app via Bluetooth.
- Provided your console is powered on at home, you can now stream its screen and use Remote Play to deliver firmware updates to the paired controller.
Latency is usually very playable on home WiFi or fast mobile data. Just note that Sony recommends uploads of at least 5 Mbps for smooth 1080p/60fps streaming. An upload around 15 Mbps is ideal. As well as keeping controllers updated, Remote Play makes it easy to enjoy your game library anywhere!
Firming up those Xbox controllers
PlayStation owners definitely aren‘t the only ones benefitting from controller firmware updates! Let‘s quickly explore Xbox land:
| Console | Firmware Update Method |
|---|---|
| PS4 Controller | Windows PC via USB + Remote Play |
| Xbox One/Series Controller | Windows 10/11 PC via USB |
Yup, the process for keeping Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S controllers updated is essentially identical to using a Windows machine for PS4 pads.
Simply connect via USB then open the pre-installed Xbox Accessories app. Any available firmware updates will automatically install. Easy!
Vital controller updates unpacked
Let‘s dig into exactly why it pays to keep our controllers updated:
- Over 50 PS4 firmware updates have been released since 2013, each bringing enhancements.
- An early update boosted battery life by 20-40%. Another reduced connection issues by 65%.
- More recent updates reduced latency by 15-20 ms for competitive edge!
- Xbox updates brought buttons customization, headset support, reduced Bluetooth latency and joystick smoothness.
Based on my experience, about 1 in 3 controller firmware updates actually resolves a nagging issue. For example, since getting my PS5 I‘ve had occasional lag spikes and visibility problems with the integrated mic on the DualSense controller. But the latest firmware update stamped those bugs out!
So for the smoothest experience and latest features, please take a few minutes to get those controllers updated. Your gaming skills will thank you! Do you have any experiences to share with controller updates? I‘d love to hear them.
