Yes, a PS4 DualShock controller can function on a PC without any PlayStation accessories.
Yes, a PS4 DualShock controller can function on a PC without any PlayStation accessories.
I'm being straightforward about it. I realized you could likely use PlayStation controllers on a PC without much trouble. After checking nearby wholesale stores, I spotted a PS4 DualShock controller. I decided it might be useful and picked one up. Once back home, I considered doing some research since I saw mixed advice about charging and connecting. Some suggested Bluetooth connection, others mentioned needing an adapter, while others claimed standard chargers should work fine. I don’t own a PS4 or any related accessories, so I wanted to confirm if this controller would fit my Windows 10 system and whether I could charge it without a dedicated DS controller adapter. I also need to know if returning it within 14 days would be acceptable.
Question 1: Should I return it, or is it still possible to use it with just the PC?
Question 2: If it doesn’t work, what’s a good alternative controller that matches its price?
It functions well but requires a particular Bluetooth version for proper wireless operation. A lower version causes issues. My adapters work with the older DS4 version, not the newer one. It’s quite selective about this. Wired connections always connect. You’re aware of the micro USB charging method—no charger needed, though it doesn’t really matter. I’ve powered devices like my Nintendo Switch, PC, PS3 and PS4 via cable, as long as they receive enough power. I own one controller that’s never been used on a PS4; it’s only been tested on my PC, so you don’t need anything from the console itself.
I operate my DS4 controller through a USB connection smoothly. However, there can be occasional problems when playing Microsoft titles on Game Pass. Otherwise, everything seems fine. Regarding charging, it should automatically draw power from the PC and adjust as required.
I used dualshock4windows(d4w) with PS4 controllers and it functioned well. Now that I have a PS5, a modified version for the PS5 controller works perfectly by converting it to XInput. OP: if you're using Steam, even non-Steam titles should work immediately, though there might be issues with games that use D4W.
The DS4 controllers are an excellent choice. I tried them on my phone for GeForceNow and had no problems. As long as the device supports Bluetooth, it should work. The newer Xbox One controllers also seem compatible but I didn’t have a chance to test them. Charging is straightforward—just use any USB power source and connect the cable. I used an older model, the large one with the Alexa accessory and my Galaxy Note 8 charger.
I attempted to connect my PS5 controller using the DS4 setup, but the audio plays through the headphone jack of the pad while the physical buttons remain unresponsive. It seems the controller might not function properly without a dedicated software like D4W.