PS5’s DualSense controller works with PS3, but not PS4

PlayStation 5’s new DualSense controller works with legacy PlayStation 3 consoles, but not PlayStation 4, it’s been revealed.

American consumers were able to purchase PS5 accessories this weekend, including the next-gen console’s controller, and several owners tested its compatibility with various devices.

As demonstrated by YouTuber MidnightMan, DualSense is not recognised at all by the PS4 console. However, the PS5 pad connects wirelessly to a PS3, likely due to that console’s compatibility with generic Bluetooth controllers.

PS4 players do have one option, however: to connect DualSense to their PC or Mac via USB and stream PS4 games via Remote Play.

As demonstrated by a Twitter user, DualSense will also work with Nintendo Switch – but only if a third-party adaptor is used to connect the controller.

The release date for PlayStation 5 accessories – including DualSense – was recently brought forward to October 30 in the US, and to November 12 in the UK.

Sony has confirmed that PS4 controllers will not work with PS5 games. However, DualShock 4 will work with PlayStation 4 games via backwards compatibility, it said in a blog post.

Speciality peripherals, such as officially licensed racing wheels, arcade sticks, and flight sticks, will work with PS5 games.

Platinum and Gold Wireless Headsets, as well as third-party headsets that connect via USB port or audio jack, will also work on PS5, along with PS Move Motion Controllers and the PlayStation VR Aim Controller.

Finally, the PlayStation Camera will work with PS5 for playing “supported PS VR games.” This will require a PlayStation Camera adaptor that will be provided at no additional cost to PS VR users.

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Video shows PS5 DualSense controller being unboxed and used to play Xbox Game Pass titles via xCloud

Controller compared to PS4 and Xbox Series X pads before being opened up to reveal its internal components