We change PS4 controller initially for practical reasons. Drift, damaged sticks, etc., make us look for better and more resistant joysticks. Buying a new PS4 controller is also a question of style. Between the official controllers, the Dualshock 4 V2, and the unofficial models, it's easy to get lost! Use this buying guide to find the best PS4 controller.
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"Sold with the PS4, the Dualshock is the official controller of the Sony console. It allows you to exploit the potential of the Japanese game…"
"With its retro and minimalist design, this Mini Gamepad is the perfect controller to introduce kids to the world of PlayStation 4. Designed under official…"
"Looking for a fully modular professional PS4 controller? Thrustmaster eSwap Pro Controller has advanced technology that makes it more precise, versatile, responsive and easy to…"
"Choose the Razer Raiju Tournament Edition if you want to equip yourself with a gamepad that meets the demands of pro gaming. Programmable via a…"
Sold with the PS4, the Dualshock is the official controller of the Sony console. It allows you to exploit the potential of the Japanese game console while offering an optimal comfort of use. And in terms of price, even unofficial controllers can't compete.
74,85 £ on AmazonIf you're looking for a high-quality PS4 controller at an affordable price, the Dualshock 4 remains the best option. Produced by Sony, it goes hand in hand with the same manufacturer's video game console. The Sony PlayStation Dualshock 4 has no compatibility issues and has a grip rarely seen in a video game controller.
You'll enjoy some great innovations when using the Dualshock 4. This controller takes advantage of modern features such as one-click screenshots or the convenient touchpad. With this controller, you will enjoy a more immersive experience. Its look is also more stylish with the camouflage green finish. Otherwise, other colors are available.
With its retro and minimalist design, this Mini Gamepad is the perfect controller to introduce kids to the world of PlayStation 4. Designed under official Sony license, it features the PS and Share buttons of the official controller.
22,39 £ on AmazonLicensed by Sony, this controller has many of the same features as the official PlayStation 4 controller. Its features include left and right sticks, directional or action buttons and R1/L1/R2/L2 buttons. The controller is wired and has a long 3-meter cable for an easy plug-and-play experience, ensuring that you won't need to upgrade to continue using it.
With its retro, but mostly compact design, this PS4 mini controller has a much more ergonomic format to offer more comfort to young players. Indeed, its dimensions make it easier to handle for children. Although minimalist, this controller is also very robust.
Looking for a fully modular professional PS4 controller? Thrustmaster eSwap Pro Controller has advanced technology that makes it more precise, versatile, responsive and easy to use.
117 £ on DartyThrustmaster has gone to great lengths to offer a condensed version of its technology dedicated to Sony's legendary console. With the eSwap Pro Controller, you can be sure that you have a model that is both professional and comfortable in your hands. Thanks to its modular design, this controller gains in versatility and allows you to improve your gaming performance. It also has buttons that are both crisp and responsive, especially with the highly tactile directional cross.
This controller is certainly a good fit for adults, especially with the removable, non-slip grips. In addition to a complete software support, allowing you to adjust the settings to your liking, this controller has a rather sober design, with as only note of colors the silk-screen printing of the 4 buttons of the PS4.
Choose the Razer Raiju Tournament Edition if you want to equip yourself with a gamepad that meets the demands of pro gaming. Programmable via a mobile app, this controller adapts 100% to your style of play to improve your performance.
128 £ on AmazonAt first glance, the 2019 version of the Razer Raiju Tournament Edition is more imposing than other PS4 controllers. That doesn't make it any less comfortable. On the contrary, the joystick fits perfectly in the palms and the buttons, pleasant to the touch, fall easily under the fingers.
This model has all the advantages and features of a good PS4 controller. Its added bonus is the ability to set it up via a mobile app on Android or iOS. Thus, you could customize the sensitivities, the configuration of the buttons or even the vibration frequency. This way, you will enjoy a better comfort and will be able to perform better during high level competitions.
Any specific needs?
The best entry-level PS4 controller
The best high-end PS4 controller
The best PS4 controller compatible with iOS and Android
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| TOP OF THE LINE | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
7/10 |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Sony PlayStation Dualshock 4
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Hori PS4 Mini Wired Controller
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Thrustmaster eSwap Pro Controller PS4
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Razer Raiju Tournament Edition (2019)
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Sold with the PS4, the Dualshock is the official controller of the Sony console. It allows you to exploit the potential of the Japanese game console while offering an optimal comfort of use. And in terms of price, even unofficial controllers can't compete.
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With its retro and minimalist design, this Mini Gamepad is the perfect controller to introduce kids to the world of PlayStation 4. Designed under official Sony license, it features the PS and Share buttons of the official controller.
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Looking for a fully modular professional PS4 controller? Thrustmaster eSwap Pro Controller has advanced technology that makes it more precise, versatile, responsive and easy to use.
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Choose the Razer Raiju Tournament Edition if you want to equip yourself with a gamepad that meets the demands of pro gaming. Programmable via a mobile app, this controller adapts 100% to your style of play to improve your performance.
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Port
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Compatibility
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USB (Micro B), expansion port, stereo headphone output
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USB
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USB, headphone output
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USB
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Weight
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Playstation and PC (Windows, Mac OS, Android, IOS)
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PlayStation and PC
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PC, PS4, Windows 10
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PS4 and PC
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Features
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210 g
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100 g
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300 g
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322 g
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Touches
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Built-in mono speaker, intense vibration motor, stereo headphone output
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Stereo headphone jack, built-in speaker, vibration or motion detection
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T-MOD technology, "Hot-Swap" function, dedicated PC software, additional rear reassignable buttons
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Audio port for stereo output and microphone input
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PS, SHARE, option, actions, directional, right and left joystick, touchpad
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PS, Share, Options, right and left sticks, directional buttons
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Action buttons, 2 side buttons L1 and R1, 2 analog triggers R2 and L2, Triangle, Round, Cross, Square, PS / SHARE / OPTIONS keys, 4 shortcut keys
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Mechanical touch action button, 4 multi-function buttons, SHARE, option keys
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The choice of controller is of paramount importance. You may be able to enjoy the gameplay to the full or you may find that it is not as responsive or drifting as you would like. In particular, you'll be making an investment over time, as video game controllers have different lifespans depending on the model. How to find the best PS4 controller? Here are the criteria to consider.
As you may have noticed, not all PS4 controllers have the same design. Some models are bigger, thicker or heavier than others. The choice of the manufacturer is crucial for the grip. Generally speaking, it is very important that the joystick fits naturally in your hands
. It should be neither too light nor too heavy. The textures and shapes should be designed so that the joystick stays in your hands, even with strong vibrations. Ideally, you should try the controller by holding it in your hands to see whether or not it is right for you.
The
button configuration generally follows that of the Dualshock. However, other manufacturers may change the placement of the buttons and analog sticks based on their studies regarding ergonomics. Check that the location of the sticks corresponds to your habits
. Also check the resistance of the buttons, their reactivity, but also the length of their strokes.
The
majority of PS4 controllers offer both options to choose from. With the non-wireless connection via Bluetooth, you enjoy better freedom of movement
. Be aware, however, that latency is always higher on a wireless controller. To keep latency to a minimum, a wired connection via a USB cable is always more suitable.
PS4 compatibility makes sense. Some PS4 controllers are also compatible with Sony's old gen consoles (PS3, PS2), but also with a PC or a smartphone
(Android or iOS). If you play on these other platforms, check this compatibility to avoid buying other controllers.
Sony's Dualshock is the gold standard in terms of functionality. It allows you to exploit all the gameplay options available on PS4 games. Its features are not always present on other controllers. Note however that other controllers can offer more options than the Dualshock. Some models offer, for example, a setting via an iOS and Android mobile application.
If you don't like the original look of your PS4 controller, you can proceed to customize it. You can buy new analog sticks and install them on the joystick. The skin can also be replaced, which will change the color of your controller's shell without changing its shape.
A screwdriver should be enough to place the new parts. On some controllers, the buttons and shell are clipped on. You can remove them without the need for tools. You can also purchase custom charging stations and protective covers.
The different PS4 controllers available on the market fall into three main categories: the official PS4 controller named Dualshock, models from official partners and those from other unofficial manufacturers.
The Dualshock is the official controller of the PS4. Built by Sony, it comes with the game console in its box. Note that this type of controller is more affordable in terms of price. However, it is able to fully exploit the capabilities of the PS4 for which it is specially designed. The controller delivered with the console is also included in the manufacturer's warranty
.
The quality of the Dualshock is satisfactory. Its lifespan is, however, shorter than some higher quality models. Its little plus? The ability to launch the PS4 remotely with a single click.
These
PS4 controllers are not made by Sony. Their manufacturers have been licensed to make compatible controllers
. These sometimes integrate the components of the Dualshock. Besides, they have the vast majority of the features available on the official controller. These controllers from official partners are reliable and sometimes more powerful than the Sony controller.
On the other hand, they usually cost a lot more. You should therefore prepare a fairly large budget to afford this type of joystick. In most cases, these joysticks are compatible with other terminals like PCs and Android.
These
are made for the PS4 without a license granted by Sony. They are not necessarily bad. On the contrary, some models designed for a single type of video game (arcade, flight simulation...) are very practical. The most important thing is to check the compatibility of the controller with your home console, but also with the titles in your game library.
PS4 Pro controllers are the best in the business. They are made from high quality materials to increase their resistance, especially the buttons. They are also better designed to offer more precision and responsiveness, factors that are essential to shine in competition. In addition, they can provide more functionality and more configuration options.
Buying a PS4 pro controller requires a substantial investment. It costs two or three times more than the conventional joysticks. Nevertheless, it brings a gain in performance and displays a longer lifespan.
The standard PS4 controllers are designed for home use. The quality of the materials used is average as is the longevity. They are not at the top of accuracy and responsiveness, but allow you to play all compatible titles on PS4 properly. Its biggest advantage lies in its cost. In fact, classic PS4 joysticks are affordable, so you don't have to spend too much money.
On the other hand, you'll have to pay special attention to possible shortcomings such as poor battery life, drifting risks, or the lifespan of a standard controller.
If you're particularly picky about quality or plan to improve your performance, a PS4 Pro controller will suit you better. You'll have to pay the price. If you're on a tighter budget, a standard joystick may be just fine as long as you choose a good quality model.
Play on your PC with a PS4 controller
The vast majority of PS4 controllers are compatible with PCs. Simply connect the controller to a USB cable. If the controller is not recognized by the PC, use DS4Windows to find the right drivers.
Easily recognize your PS4 controller when playing multiplayer
Each controller connected to the same PS4 displays a different LED. Use the color of the LED to recognize your controller between games.
Quickly relaunch the last used application
Press the center button with the PlayStation logo on your PS4 controller twice in a row, you'll automatically load the last game or app launched on the console.
Connect your headset directly to your PS4 controller
PS4 controllers usually have a 3.5mm jack audio output. You can plug your headphones into it so you don't have to stand next to the console while playing your favorite video games.
Gain autonomy
You can extend the battery life of your PS4 controller by disabling vibration and turning down the volume. In the general settings, you'll find an option to charge your controller when it's wired to the console and put on standby.
The best PS4 controller depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products out there.
Yes, as long as you connect the controller via a USB cable. However, you can't play the PS4 with a PS3 controller.
Yes, the PS5 does recognize the Dualshock and other officially licensed PS4 controllers. However, you would only be able to play PS4 games that are backwards compatible with Sony's new gen console.
Syncing a PS4 controller is initiated once you connect it to the console via USB cable and press the PS button.
Yes, if you can find the right parts. The buttons and the shell can eventually be replaced easily.
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