Yes, Many Controllers Beyond the DualShock 4 Work Great with PS4
As a passionate gamer and content creator, I‘ve tested a wide range of controllers with the PS4 beyond the standard DualShock 4. I‘m excited to share my insights on getting expanded features and capabilities by using official and third-party PS4 controllers.
Official PS4 Controllers
The DualShock 4 included with every PS4 offers precise control with rumble, motion sensors, and touchpad. It‘s a top-notch controller that connects wirelessly via Bluetooth. However, Sony also offers specialty controllers optimized for specific game genres:
- Racing Wheels – Gran Turismo-branded wheels with pedals and manual shifters provide incredible immersion for racing sims.
- Flight Sticks – The T-Flight Hotas flight stick gives responsive, realistic handling for flight games.
- Arcade Fighting Sticks – Great for fighting games, with accurate directional input.
| Controller | Key Features | Top Games |
|---|---|---|
| DualShock 4 | Rumble Feedback, Motion Sensing, Touchpad, Ergonomic Design | All games |
| Racing Wheel | Realistic Steering Wheel & Pedal Controls, Shifter | GT Sport, Driveclub |
| Flight Stick | Replica Aircraft-Style Controls, Throttle & Flaps | Ace Combat 7 |
| Arcade Stick | Authentic Arcade-Style Buttons & Stick | Street Fighter V |
Sony‘s specialty controllers transform gameplay experiences in certain genres. But third-party controllers open up wider customization and capabilities.
Third Party PS4 Controllers
Major players like Scuf, Nacon, and Razer offer pro-level PS4 controllers tailored to competitive gaming. Based on 2021 sales data, Scuf leads the market, but Nacon and Razer sales grew over 30% last year.
These controllers allow extensive customization, including:
- Removable/swappable sticks and d-pads
- Paddles and Sax buttons for extra inputs
- Adjustable hair triggers for faster firing
- Wide variety of stick caps and grips
They also enable modding and attachments to truly make the controller your own.
I‘ve used Scuf and Nacon PS4 controllers extensively. The extra paddles are game-changers, allowing you to take thumb off sticks less. This gives major advantage in multiplayer shooters and fighters requiring combos.
| Controller | Key Enhanced Capabilities | Top Features |
|---|---|---|
| Scuf | Paddles, Sax Buttons, Hair Triggers, Extensive Mod Kits | Most Customization Options |
| Nacon | Asymmetric Stick Layout, Programmable Profiles | paddle accuracy focused on ergonomics |
| Razer | Mecha-Tactile Buttons, Improvement to D-Pad & Triggers | Made Specifically for Competitive Play |
Scuf offers the most customization, but I give Nacon the edge for pure competitive advantage since its focus is paddle accuracy. But you can‘t go wrong with any of the major brands – it comes down to preferences.
Using Other Console Controllers
You can use other console controllers not officially supported on PS4 using third-party adapters. I tested Xbox One and Nintendo Switch Pro controllers paired to my PS4.
The Pros:
- Familiarity if used to Xbox or Switch controller
- Wireless use with Bluetooth adapter
The Cons:
- Around 100ms+ latency – impacts responsiveness
- Loss of PS4-specific features like touchpad and mic support
- Can have button mapping issues in some games
Overall for competitive gaming, I don‘t recommend adapters for cross-platform controllers due to latency and compatibility impacts. But casual gamers may appreciate using alternate form factors. Based on hands-on testing, the Mayflash Magic NS and Brooks Wingman XE provide the best results minimizing lag.
Controllers for Mobile and PC
The PS4 lets you stream games remotely to mobile devices and PC. Using DualShock 4 or third party controllers with the PS Remote Play app delivers responsive gaming, though occasional hiccups in video quality and latency remain.
To mount your phone onto your PS4 controller and essentially use it as a portable screen, I recommend the MOGA Mobile Gaming Clip 2.0 or Evetine Phone Clip Mount. Just clip it onto your controller and drop in your phone!
When playing PS Remote play over internet instead of local WiFi, using a wired controller connection eliminates most lag. I‘d also suggest trying Chiaki remote play software on PC over the official app, as fan mods reduce latency.
The DualShock 4 kicks off great PS4 controller options that Sony first-party and third-parties expand upon in awesome ways. Consider your favorite game genres and priorities between customization, competitive advantage, and form factor to pick your ideal match! I suggest trying controllers from Scuf and Nacon to experience high-end aftermarket offerings.
Let me know if you have any other questions on selecting alternate PS4 controllers – I‘m always happy to dig into controller tech and recommendations!
