If you’ve been a gamer for a while, a PlayStation 4 (PS4) is probably one of your favorite gaming consoles. It can offer you a great gaming experience, but if you own a Mac, you might want to consider using your PS4 controller as a remote. It’s very useful if you want to play wirelessly, as the remote control won’t be tethered to the Mac. If you are looking for a way to connect your PS4 controller to Mac, keep reading as we discuss various methods to help you connect your PS4 controller to your Mac.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
- A Mac running on OS X Yosemite or newer
- A PS4 controller
- A USB cable (Micro USB to USB-A)
- The PS4 Remote Play App installed on your Mac
What Requires Your Focus?
Before we get started, it’s worth noting that connectivity issues are the most common problems that people face when connecting their PS4 controller to their Mac. This may happen as a result of outdated drivers, configuration issues, or other similar factors. That being said, it’s important to make sure that all the requirements are met, and that your components are up to date.
Different Methods to Connect PS4 Controller to Mac for Remote Play
Method 1: Using Bluetooth
The first method involves using Bluetooth to connect your PS4 controller to your Mac. This is the easiest way to connect the two devices, and it involves the following steps:
- Turn your PS4 controller on by pressing the PlayStation button and the Share button at the same time for several seconds.
- Your PS4 controller will start to blink, indicating that it’s ready to pair.
- Go to your Mac and click on the Apple icon on the top-left of your screen, then click on System Preferences.
- Click on Bluetooth.
- Make sure that Bluetooth is on by ticking the box next to it.
- Click on Pair new device.
- Select Wireless Controller from the list of available devices.
- Click on Pair.
- Your PS4 controller should now be connected to your Mac.
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- Wireless
- No need for third-party software
Cons:
- Connectivity issues may occur
- This method may not work with older PS4 controllers
Method 2: Using a USB Cable
Another way to connect your PS4 controller to your Mac is by using a USB cable. This method guarantees a reliable connection, which is why it’s a popular choice among gamers. The following are the steps to follow:
- Get a USB cable. A Micro USB to USB-A cable works great for this method.
- Plug one end of the USB cable into your PS4 controller and the other end into your Mac.
- Launch the PS4 Remote Play App on your Mac.
- Click on Start.
- Once the Remote Play window shows up, click on Preferences.
- Select the Settings tab and then click on Controller.
- Tick the box next to the PS4 Controller option.
- Your PS4 controller should now be connected to your Mac.
Pros:
- Reliable and stable connection
- Easy to set up
- No need for a third-party software
Cons:
- The Mac needs to be within the cable’s reach
- It’s not wireless
- Might need to purchase a longer USB cable if the default one is short
Method 3: Using DS4Windows
The third method on our list is using a third-party software called DS4Windows. DS4Windows allows you to use your PS4 controller with the Mac, but it’s only available on Windows computers. Fortunately, you can install Windows on your Mac through emulation software, such as Parallels Desktop or VirtualBox. Follow these steps:
- Download and install Parallels Desktop or VirtualBox on your Mac.
- Launch the application and install Windows.
- Navigate to the DS4Windows website and download the software.
- Connect your PS4 controller to your Mac via USB cable.
- Install DS4Windows on your Windows-installed Mac.
- Launch DS4Windows and click on ‘Install the DS4 Driver.’
- Follow the on-screen instructions and then click on Finish.
- The PS4 controller should now be connected to your Mac.
Pros:
- Allows use of PS4 controller on a Mac
- Compatible with Windows as well as Mac OS systems
Cons:
- The PS4 controller needs to be connected via USB cable
- Requires Windows emulation software
- The need to download and install third-party software
Why Can’t I Connect My PS4 Controller to my Mac?
There are several reasons why you might have issues connecting your PS4 controller to your Mac. Here are a few:
- Outdated Software – Make sure that your Mac runs on OS X Yosemite or newer.
- Incompatible Hardware – Older PS4 controllers may not work with the Bluetooth method.
- Third-party Software – Make sure you didn’t download anything that might conflict with the Remote Play App or the Mac’s Bluetooth connectivity.
Implications and Recommendations
Connecting a PS4 controller to your Mac can be a great experience when it comes to gaming. It allows you to enjoy your favourite games wirelessly, and the best part is that it’s very easy to set up. Before connecting your PS4 controller to Mac, you should ensure that all the requirements are in place. Additionally, some gamers might prefer other methods over the Bluetooth method, especially if their PS4 controller is older. Overall, it’s an excellent way to game remotely, and it helps you make the most out of your Mac’s gaming capabilities.
5 FAQs about Connecting PS4 Controller to Mac for Remote Play
Q1: What is the best method to connect a PS4 controller to a Mac for Remote Play?
A: The best method to connect your PS4 controller to a Mac for Remote Play depends on which one is best suited for you. If you don’t want a cable, you might want to go with the Bluetooth method, while those looking for a more stable connection might prefer the USB method. If you use Parallels Desktop or VirtualBox for Windows emulation, DS4Windows is the go-to option.
Q2: What are the requirements for connecting a PS4 controller to a Mac for Remote Play?
A: The requirements for connecting a PS4 controller to a Mac for Remote Play include a Mac running on OS X Yosemite or newer, a PS4 controller, a USB cable (Microusb to USB-A), and the PS4 Remote Play app installed on your Mac.
Q3: Can I connect my PS4 controller to my Mac wirelessly?
A: Yes, you can connect your PS4 controller to your Mac wirelessly using Bluetooth.
Q4: How can I check if my Mac’s Bluetooth is turned on?
A: To check if your Mac’s Bluetooth is turned on: go to System Preferences > Bluetooth and make sure the box next to Bluetooth is ticked.
Q5: What if I can’t connect my PS4 controller to my Mac?
A: There are several reasons why you might be unable to connect your PS4 controller to your Mac. Ensure your Mac runs on OS X Yosemite or newer, there’s no conflicting third-party software, and that all the requirements are available. In some instances, an outdated PS4 controller might be the problem.
In Conclusion
Connecting a PS4 controller to a Mac for Remote Play is worth considering if you want to enjoy your favourite games wirelessly. There are several ways to do this, including using Bluetooth, a USB cable and third-party software like DS4Windows. Note that some PS4 controllers might not be compatible with certain methods. By following the recommendations above and paying attention to the underlying requirements for each method, you should be able to connect your PS4 controller to your Mac with ease.