(1155 products available)
PlayStation 4 (PS4) controllers are indispensable peripherals for PS4 gaming. These controllers come in various types to cater to different gaming preferences and budgets.
Wireless DualShock 4:
This is the official PS4 controller and it features a wireless connection using Bluetooth technology for seamless connection with the PS4 console. The DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller has a touchpad that allows players to navigate PS4 menus easily. It also boasts a light bar that serves multiple purposes, such as revealing in-game character health or changing color during a game. Furthermore, it has a share button that enables players to share gameplay online instantly. Although the DualShock 4 wireless controller is highly praised for its performance and features, its cost limits many buyers' access to it.
Wired DualShock 4:
Unlike the wireless version, the wired DualShock 4 connects to the PS4 console with a USB cable. This eliminates the need for charging the controller, making it an ideal option for buyers on a tight budget. It also reduces the latency issues occasionally experienced with wireless controllers. However, the wired DualShock 4 controller is less flexible since gamers are limited to the cord length.
Professional Gaming Controllers:
These are high-end PS4 controllers designed for professional gamers. They come with multiple programmable paddles at the back of the controller that allow players to jump or sprint without taking their thumbs off the analog sticks. This feature gives players a competitive edge in fast-action games. Moreover, professional gaming controllers have a removable stick and paddles, offering some gamers the opportunity to use the directional pad (d-pad) configuration. They also feature adjustable triggers, giving gamers precise control over the acceleration and braking in racing games. Although professional gaming controllers offer gamers a better experience, they are more expensive than standard controllers, making them unaffordable to most buyers.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives:
These are third-party controllers for PS4 that are less expensive than the official DualShock 4 controllers. Despite their affordability, they are only sometimes customizable like professional gaming controllers. However, budget-friendly alternatives usually have the standard buttons and sticks that make them suitable for casual gamers.
Specialty Controllers:
These are unique PS4 controllers designed for specific gaming genres or accessibility needs. For instance, an asymmetrical controller features an off-set layout of thumbsticks similar to the Xbox controller design. However, this controller is highly sought after by gamers with specific preferences. On the other hand, the battle beaver controller comes with extra buttons and a staggered layout, giving it a unique feel and functionality.
There's a reason why the cheap PS4 controllers are some of the most popular controllers around. They have features that gamers want, including a stable connection, good battery life, and unique design elements.
Stable Connections
Wireless controllers connect to the console with Bluetooth. That allows gamers to play wirelessly without worrying about tripping over cables. Some cheap PS4 controllers also connect to the console with a wired connection. Gamers who want to reduce input lag in their games can switch to wired connections. These controllers offer stable connections that ensure uninterrupted gameplay.
Rechargeable Batteries
Most PS4 controllers come with rechargeable batteries. These batteries provide about 3 to 4 hours of playtime on a full charge. Players can recharge their controllers during short breaks between games. Or they can use them while their controllers are charging. Controller chargers allow gamers to charge controllers by inserting them into the charging dock.
Unique Design Features
Some cheap PS4 controllers have design features that give them a competitive edge in gaming. These features may play a role in deciding which controller to use. They include removable thumb grips and back paddles.
Removable thumb grips are rubber attachments that increase the sensitivity of the analog sticks. They give gamers more control when moving the sticks. These grips are easy to attach and remove with a pull, so gamers can put them on when they need more control and take them off when they want to feel the original grip.
Back paddles are extra buttons on the back of the controller. They allow gamers to execute button combos without taking their thumbs off the analog sticks. These paddles give gamers an edge in fast-paced games.
There are numerous uses for affordable PS4 controllers. They can be employed in workplaces, educational settings, and home centers, in addition to gaming. Understanding how various organizations use controllers can assist with recognizing potential customers and markets.
Finding a worthwhile yet cheap PS4 controller requires knowing what to look for in durability, features, and performance.
Here are some tips on how to find a PS4 controller that is inexpensive but would last for an extended period.
Prioritize Durability
Look for a PS4 controller made with strong plastic. The materials used should not wear out quickly with extensive daily use. Some cheap controllers have a history of issues with their joysticks. They may become loose or stick after a few months. Try to find controllers built for joystick longevity. Researching and reviewing the controller's durability can help to identify long-lasting products.
Examine Popularity and Reviews
Check if other gamers are actively using the PS4 controller brand. A large number of users indicate that it is a popular product. The popularity shows the controller's reliability and quality. Look at reviews to see what others say about its comfort and performance. Reviews reveal important details about the controller like how responsive the buttons are.
Look at Extra Features
Consider cheap PS4 controllers with additional features that can improve gameplay. Features like turbo buttons or LED lights provide an exciting gaming experience. Touchpads on controllers also give more ways to control games. These features may not be on basic controller models. Affordable controllers with unique features offer more value for the price.
Consider Compatibility
Check that the PS4 controller easily connects with the PlayStation 4 console. It should also be compatible with other devices like PCs, phones, and tablets. This lets users play games on different platforms with one controller. Make sure the controller uses Bluetooth technology for seamless connections. Stick with DualShock controllers or ones made by trusted brands for guaranteed compatibility.
Warranty and Customer Support
Controllers will develop problems, especially after extensive use. A controller with a warranty shows the manufacturer's confidence in its build quality. The warranty can save money on repairs and provide peace of mind. Good customer support also helps to fix any issues quickly. So, check that the seller offers responsive support in case problems arise.
Q1: How can one differentiate a genuine DualShock 4 controller from a fake one?
A1: There are many ways to tell a genuine PS4 controller from a fake one. Check the packaging and the controller's build quality. A real DualShock 4 will have smooth and precise thumbsticks, while fake ones might have wobbly or sticky thumbsticks. The touchpad on original controllers also responds well to touches and swipes, while the fake ones might not be so responsive. Moreover, genuine controllers have a light bar, while some fake ones don't.
Q2: How long does the battery of a cheap PS4 controller last?
A2: The battery life of DualShock 4 controllers varies. Factors like play intensity, Wi-Fi usage, and light bar settings can low battery life. On average, the controller will last about 4-8 hours on a full charge. However, using a PS5 DualSense controller with a PS5 will yield a longer battery life – up to 12 hours.
Q3: Are there any cheap PS4 controllers that can be used on a PC?
A3: The DualShock 4 can be connected to a PC wirelessly via Bluetooth or wired using a USB cable. However, the simple plug-and-play connectivity offered by Xbox controllers is not the same for DualShock 4 controllers. Users must download and install additional software, like Steam, ScpToolkit, or DS4Windows, to use the PS4 controller on a PC. Fortunately, the newer PS5 DualSense controllers have native support on PCs. So, they’ll work with minimal configuration on Windows and Steam.
Q4: Do cheap PS4 controllers offer warranty?
A4: Warranty depends on the supplier or manufacturer. Some wireless PS4 controllers with battery and charging components offer a warranty, while others don’t. Be sure to check with the supplier for information on warranties and production.
Q5: Do any of the PS4 controllers cheap support virtual reality?
A5: All PS4 controllers, whether cheap or expensive, can be used to navigate the PlayStation VR menu and control some PlayStation VR games. However, the PlayStation Move motion controllers offer a more immersive experience in VR games that support them.