How Long Does a PS4 Controller Last? (Lifespan+Battery Life)

The PS4 controller is a popular and versatile controller on the market today.

It comes with an excellent design and is easy to use whether you’re playing independently or on a team.

One of the most common issues that gamers face with their controllers over time is that the battery life becomes shorter than it used to be. 

How long does a PS4 controller last? 

This article looks at the overall lifespan of the PS4 Dualshock controller, its battery lifespan, and some fixes for those who are experiencing this issue. 

PS4 controllers are made with the latest technology to last as long as possible.

Since the console was released, there have been questions about the life of the PS4 controller.

The controller is very versatile and has many buttons, so it’s great for all types of games. 

The controller can last up to 8-12 hours of gameplay on a single charge. The battery life depends on what you’re playing, but if your controller is running low on power, there’s no need to panic. 

Let’s get started!

How long does a PS4 controller last?

The lifespan of a PS4 controller is mainly dependent on how often it is used and any damage that may occur during use. If a person takes good care of their PS4 controller and does not game all day and night, the controller should last at least four years. If a player is careless with the controller, it will not last as long.

Gamers want to know if they can expect their controllers to last, especially if they purchase an expensive model like the DualShock 4.

If you play games for hours every day, then yes, your controller should be shorter than someone who plays less frequently or only uses them occasionally.

How long does the battery of the PS4 controller last?

A new PS4 controller would last for 10-12 hours on a single charge.

However, the average PS4 gaming controller will last about 7-8 hours of continuous use before the battery needs to be recharged.

This assumes that the playstyle is not very aggressive, and moderate use is made of vibration features. 

This time would decrease as the age of the controller increases.

The PS4 controller has a Charge Light feature that warns when the battery levels are low, and it flashes red when it’s time to recharge.

If a controller has a wireless connection, there may be a need for a wired connection to recharge.

How long does a PS4 controller last on 1 bar?

On average, when the PS4 controller is down to one bar, it can last for about an hour.

If a person has a shock feature turned on, it may last less.

Though you can use the PS4 controller on a 1 bar charge, it is not advisable to do so, and it will impact the battery life of the controller in the long run.

To minimize battery usage, you can also disable the vibration feature of the PS4 controller.

How long does a PS4 controller last on 2 bars?

A PS4 controller can last a long time on two bars, and on two bars, the PS4 controller will last around 3 hours.

This will also vary, and if a person has the shock feature on the controller, it will last for a shorter time. 

Once it gets to 1 bar, you can charge the controller back to full before using it again.

Tips for Making the PS4 Controller Last Longer

The PS4 controller requires regular charging, but there are ways to increase the longevity of the controller before it needs to be recharged.

Here are some things you should know about caring for your PS4 controllers:

#1. Turn DualShock 4 off when not used

When using the controller for a purpose other than gaming, such as watching a movie, the controller should be shut off to save the battery.

#2. Dim the light bar on the Controller

You can dim the light bar on the controller. While it may change color in certain games, going to the quick menu can allow a user to dim the light so it will not use as much battery. 

#3. Turning DualShock 4 speaker volume down and Vibrations off

You can also lower the volume on the controller.

Since the controller has a speaker, it will make noise, and it is much louder than needed and takes up battery life. 

Also, the vibration motors in the controller use much battery life.

Please turn it off when you do not need the vibration from the Dualshock 4 controller in gaming.

#4. Clean Your Controller Regularly

The best way to clean your controllers is by using a damp cloth.

You should wipe down the entire surface area, including the faceplate.

This will remove any dirt or dust particles on the surface, which could cause damage if left untreated.

Make sure not to use any abrasive cleaners as these will damage the finish on the controller. 

#5. Change the Dualshock 4 controller shutoff time

Shutoff time is when the controller would automatically turn off if not used.

It is a great feature in the PS4 controller, which you can utilize and maximize the battery life of the controller.

You can set this in Settings-> Power Save Settings-> Set the shutoff time.

By default, the shutoff time of the PS4 controller is set to 60 mins.

This means it will remain turned on and consume the battery for 60 mins though you are not playing.

You can set it to 15-30 mins as per your battery optimization desire.

#6. Not Using the Controller while Charging

Ideally, you should not play using the PS4 controller while it charges, and it takes away charge when you play, plus it charges simultaneously.

So, the charging takes more time.

Also, it is not advisable to charge and play, and it may impact the PS4 controller’s battery in the long run.

So, first, charge the controller and then use it.

Can you upgrade the PS4 controller battery?

The PS4 controller comes with a 1000 average mAh battery.

If you want to upgrade your controller, you can get a battery that runs on 2,200 mAh, and it will last up to 2.2 times longer than the original battery that came with the PS4 system.

It is not advisable to upgrade the battery of the Dualshock 4 controller as it will void the PS4 controller’s warranty.

So, it is better to use the controller and raise a complaint if you face a low battery issue under warranty.

Conclusion

Let’s conclude the post on how long a PS4 controller lasts!

PS4 controllers are based on rechargeable batteries, and it wears off as you use them more often.

With time the battery level falls like any other electronic gadget.

I recommend taking care of the Dualshock 4 controller by turning it off after use, using the vibration motor in minimal, and performing a full charge cycle before using it again.

I hope you enjoyed reading the post.