Use Nintendo Joy-Cons On PS4: A Simple Guide

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Use Nintendo Joy-Cons on PS4: A Simple Guide

Hey guys! Ever wondered if you could ditch your DualShock and game on your PlayStation 4 with your trusty Nintendo Joy-Cons? Well, you're in luck! While it's not a straightforward process, it's totally doable. This guide will walk you through the steps to get your Joy-Cons working on your PS4, opening up a world of gaming possibilities. Let's dive in!

Why Connect Joy-Cons to Your PS4?

Before we jump into the "how," let's quickly cover the "why." Why would you even want to use Joy-Cons on a PS4? Here are a few compelling reasons:

  • Comfort and Familiarity: Maybe you just prefer the feel of the Joy-Cons. If you're used to their size and button layout, gaming with them on your PS4 can be a more comfortable experience.
  • Novelty and Fun: Let's be honest, it's just plain cool! Using controllers from different consoles on your PS4 is a fun way to mix things up and show off your tech skills.
  • Accessibility: For gamers with specific needs or preferences, the Joy-Cons might offer a more accessible control scheme for certain games.
  • Experimentation: Connecting Joy-Cons to other devices can be a very fun way to experiment with the controllers and explore the possibilities. You may find out you love it or you may hate it, but its worth a shot!

What You'll Need

Okay, so you're convinced. Here's what you'll need to make this happen:

  • Your PS4: Obviously, you'll need your PlayStation 4 console.
  • Nintendo Joy-Cons: A pair of Joy-Cons from your Nintendo Switch.
  • A USB Adapter: This is the key piece of hardware. You'll need a USB adapter that's specifically designed to connect other controllers to your PS4. The most popular and widely recommended adapter is the Mayflash Magic-S Pro 2. It's relatively inexpensive and supports a wide range of controllers, including Joy-Cons. Make sure that the adapter you choose is compatible with the Nintendo Joy-Cons.
  • USB Cable: A standard USB cable to connect the adapter to your PS4.

Step-by-Step Guide: Connecting Your Joy-Cons

Alright, let's get down to business. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll be gaming with your Joy-Cons on your PS4 in no time.

Step 1: Update the Adapter Firmware

Before you even plug anything in, it's crucial to update the firmware on your USB adapter. This ensures compatibility and optimal performance. Here's how:

  1. Visit the Manufacturer's Website: Go to the website of the USB adapter manufacturer (e.g., Mayflash). Find the support or downloads section for your specific adapter model.
  2. Download the Latest Firmware: Download the latest firmware update file. This will usually be a .bin file or an executable file.
  3. Connect the Adapter to Your PC: Plug the adapter into your computer using a USB cable.
  4. Run the Update Tool: Run the firmware update tool that you downloaded from the website. Follow the on-screen instructions to update the adapter's firmware. Important: Do not disconnect the adapter during the update process!
  5. Verify the Update: Once the update is complete, disconnect the adapter from your PC.

Why is this step so important, you ask? Skipping the firmware update can lead to a whole host of problems, including connection issues, button mapping errors, and overall poor performance. Trust me, taking the time to update the firmware is well worth it in the long run.

Step 2: Connect the Adapter to Your PS4

Now that your adapter is up-to-date, it's time to connect it to your PS4:

  1. Plug the Adapter into a USB Port: Plug the USB adapter into an available USB port on your PlayStation 4.
  2. Wait for Recognition: Give the PS4 a few seconds to recognize the adapter. You might see a brief notification on the screen.

Step 3: Sync Your Joy-Cons

This is where the magic happens. Here's how to sync your Joy-Cons to the adapter:

  1. Put the Joy-Con into Pairing Mode: On the Joy-Con, press and hold the small sync button located on the side of the controller (between the SL and SR buttons) until the LED lights start flashing rapidly.
  2. Press the Pairing Button on the Adapter: Most adapters have a pairing button. Press this button to initiate the pairing process.
  3. Wait for Connection: The adapter and Joy-Con should now start communicating. The LED lights on both the adapter and the Joy-Con should indicate when the connection is successful. Usually, the LED on the adapter will light up solid, and the flashing lights on the Joy-Con will stop.
  4. Repeat for the Second Joy-Con: If you want to use both Joy-Cons, repeat the pairing process for the second controller.

Having trouble syncing? Make sure the Joy-Cons are charged and close to the adapter. Also, try resetting the Joy-Cons by pressing the sync button for a longer period.

Step 4: Configure the Controller (If Necessary)

In some cases, you might need to configure the controller settings on your PS4. This is usually only necessary if the button mapping is incorrect or if you're experiencing other issues.

  1. Go to Devices: On your PS4, go to Settings > Devices > Controllers.
  2. Customize Button Assignments: Here, you can customize the button assignments for your connected controller. This allows you to remap buttons to your liking.

Button mapping all weird? Don't worry! Most adapters have different modes that you can switch between to optimize the button layout for different consoles. Consult the adapter's manual for instructions on how to switch modes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best instructions, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to fix them:

  • Joy-Cons Not Connecting:
    • Make sure the adapter firmware is up-to-date.
    • Ensure the Joy-Cons are charged.
    • Try resetting the Joy-Cons by holding the sync button.
    • Make sure the adapter is securely plugged into the PS4.
  • Input Lag:
    • Move the adapter closer to the Joy-Cons.
    • Minimize interference from other wireless devices.
    • Try a different USB port on the PS4.
  • Incorrect Button Mapping:
    • Consult the adapter's manual for instructions on how to switch modes.
    • Customize the button assignments in the PS4 settings.
  • Adapter Not Recognized:
    • Try a different USB port on the PS4.
    • Make sure the adapter is compatible with the PS4.
    • Check the adapter's website for troubleshooting tips.

Alternatives to Using a USB Adapter

While using a USB adapter is the most common method, there are a couple of alternative approaches you could consider:

  • Cronus Zen: The Cronus Zen is a more advanced adapter that offers a wider range of features, including scripting and modding capabilities. However, it's also more expensive and complex to set up than a basic USB adapter.
  • Remote Play: While not a direct connection, you could technically use the Joy-Cons with the PS4 through Remote Play on a PC or mobile device. You would connect the Joy-Cons to your PC/mobile device and then use Remote Play to control your PS4. This method has added latency and may not be ideal for fast-paced games.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! Connecting your Nintendo Joy-Cons to your PS4 might seem like a crazy idea, but it's entirely possible with the right equipment and a little bit of patience. Whether you're looking for a more comfortable gaming experience or just want to experiment with different controllers, using Joy-Cons on your PS4 can be a fun and rewarding experience. Just remember to update your adapter firmware, follow the steps carefully, and don't be afraid to troubleshoot if you run into any issues.

Happy gaming, folks! And remember, have fun exploring the possibilities of cross-console gaming!

Disclaimer: While this guide provides detailed instructions, the compatibility and performance of Joy-Cons on the PS4 may vary depending on the specific adapter and game. Always consult the adapter's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information.