Sony’s DualShock 4 controller for PS4 is generally very intuitive and comfortable to use, but depending on what you’re using your PS4 for, you may prefer to use another device to control your system.
Some gamers may prefer to play certain games with a mouse and keyboard, and using your phone as a remote control is a convenient way to browse the Internet, search the PlayStation Store, and watch content on streaming services.
Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to control your PS4 without a controller. Here’s how you can connect a keyboard and mouse or a cell phone to your PS4.
Use PS4 with keyboard and mouse
PlayStation allows you to play with third-party keyboards and mice. They can be Bluetooth or USB and you can install them instead of your usual drivers.
How to connect a USB keyboard and mouse to PS4
To connect a USB keyboard or mouse to PS4, you have to do the following:
- Plug your device into an empty USB port on the PS4.
- The console should recognize your device and ask you which profile you want to pair the device with.
- Select the PS4 profile you want to pair with the device.
How to connect a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse to PS4
Setting up a Bluetooth keyboard is slightly different than USB. This is what you have to do:
- From the PS4 home screen, press up on the D-pad to select the navigation menu.
- Gonna Settings.
- Find Devices.
- Get into Bluetooth devices.
- Wait for the system to search for nearby Bluetooth devices.
- Pair the devices normally by following the default pairing process of your Bluetooth device.
- The PS4 will recognize a new device.
- Choose the profile you want to link with the device.
After following these steps, you should be able to use your Bluetooth keyboard to control your system.
Change keyboard settings
Once you have set up your keyboard, you can change the settings by following these steps:
- Gonna Settings.
- Select Devices.
- Choose your keyboard.
From here, you’ll be able to change the key repeat delay and speed, keyboard type, and language.
Can I play PS4 games with a keyboard?
Unfortunately, many PS4 games do not support the use of mouse and keyboard. Certain games, such asCall of Duty: Modern Warfareand Final Fantasy XIV: A Kingdom Rebornsupport keyboards; However, for most other games, you’ll need to use a DualShock 4 controller for an intuitive gaming experience.
You may not be completely out of luck as products like the XIM APEX Keyboard Adapter for PS4 allows you to use your keyboard instead of a controller. These devices work by translating your keyboard inputs into controller button presses, essentially tricking your console into thinking you’re using a DualShock 4. However, some users report having issues with input lag, and at $125, It is a fairly expensive option.
Still, if you choose not to use an adapter like the XIM APEX, you’ll still be able to use your keyboard for some gaming and general navigation purposes.
Use a PS4 with a smartphone
Sony has officially launched a PlayStation app (iOS and Android) that allows you to use your smartphone or tablet to control your PS4 remotely. You can use them as a keyboard, a controller or even a remote control.
The smartphone controller feature is not yet available in many games, but it can be useful in certain situations.
Step 1: Download the app
Before you start connecting the two devices, you need to download the app from the app store. The application is available both on the Play store and App Store.
Once you have downloaded the app, install it on your device and open it. When prompted for login information, you must enter the same PlayStation Network username and password that you have on your PS4.
Step 2: Pair the devices
Connect your PS4 using the ‘Second Screen’ feature. To do this, you must follow these steps:
- Open the PS4 app.
- Tap on the Connect to PS4 icon.
- Select the Second screen option. If you can’t find the PS4, make sure they are on the same network.
- Tap to pair the devices.
After this, you will need to enter a unique code to register your device to the PS4:
- Go to the SettingsMenu on your PS4.
- Find the games station App connection settingsmenu.
- Select the Add device Menu on your PS4.
- A code should appear on this screen.
- Copy the code to your phone app to officially register the device.
The ‘PlayStation App Connection Settings’ screen will show all the devices you pair to your PlayStation, and from this menu you can unpair them in the future.
Step 3 – Start using your smartphone
Once the devices are linked, the only thing left is to use it as a remote control. To do so, follow these steps:
- Go to the PS4 app on your smartphone.
- Tap on the Connect to PS4.
- Select Second Screen.
- Tap on the Second screenbutton below your PS4.
- The remote control along with four icons will appear at the top of the screen.
The first icon allows you to use the remote control in-game, but only if the game supports the feature. The second allows you to use your smartphone as a remote control to navigate the PS4 menu. The third is a typing pad that allows you to type on the console and the fourth icon allows you to view viewers’ comments while you are streaming.
Once you’re done with all these steps, your phone should automatically connect to your PS4 every time you turn on the app. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to play as many games with your phone, but there are more games supported by the app every day.
Final thoughts
Even if you don’t use the controller, you can have a similar experience using a keyboard, mouse, and even your phone.
Of course, you won’t be able to enjoy many games, but these devices are usually more convenient for activities outside of gaming. You can easily send a text message, browse the web, and even stream a movie with a few clicks or taps instead of trying to do everything with a controller.
What would you use instead of the PS4 controller? Do you know of any keyboard or mouse compatible with PS4? Leave a comment and let us know.
