Connect Mouse and Keyboard to PS4: A Simple Guide

Using a Mouse and Keyboard on PlayStation 4

Surprisingly, the Sony PlayStation 4 console is compatible with both a mouse and a keyboard.

This functionality enhances user experience by streamlining typing tasks, facilitating web browsing, and improving overall navigation speed.

Enhanced Convenience and Game Support

Certain games natively support mouse and keyboard input, offering players alternative control schemes.

However, it's important to note that widespread support isn't yet universal.

Limitations in Game Compatibility

The majority of games currently do not recognize mouse and keyboard inputs.

This is largely due to concerns from game developers regarding competitive balance.

Specifically, developers aim to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage in titles like Call of Duty through the precision offered by mouse aiming.

A Useful Functionality

Despite these limitations, enabling mouse and keyboard support remains a beneficial feature to know.

The following instructions will detail the process of setting up this functionality on your PS4.

Connecting a Mouse and Keyboard to Your PS4

Both USB and wireless Bluetooth mice and keyboards are compatible with the PlayStation 4 console.

Connecting a USB mouse or keyboard is straightforward. Simply plug the device into one of the PS4’s available USB ports, located on the front panel. These ports are also utilized for charging PS4 controllers. If utilizing a wireless device, insert the accompanying USB dongle into a port instead. The system will automatically detect the new hardware within moments.

Credit: Playstation 4 gaming console

Further Reading: A Guide to Pairing Bluetooth Devices with Your Computer, Tablet, or Smartphone

Bluetooth connectivity offers another method for attaching a wireless mouse or keyboard to your PS4. The Bluetooth standard ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices; specialized PS4 or gaming console peripherals are not required.

To establish a Bluetooth connection, navigate to the Settings menu on your PS4. Select "Devices," then choose "Bluetooth Devices." Activate pairing mode on your mouse or keyboard, and it will become visible within the list of available devices for connection.

Customization options are available for connected mice and keyboards. Access these settings through the Settings menu, selecting "Devices," and then either "External Keyboard" or "Mouse." Keyboard settings allow adjustment of keyboard type, key delay, and repeat rate. Mouse settings permit selection of handedness and pointer speed.

Once connected, a mouse and keyboard can be utilized to navigate the PS4 interface. This is especially beneficial when using the PS4’s web browser, providing a more efficient input method than the controller.

A mouse and keyboard facilitate tasks such as chatting with friends, searching streaming services like Netflix, entering passwords, and other actions that are cumbersome with a controller alone.

Playing Games on PlayStation 4 with Mouse and Keyboard

Related: Utilizing Remote Play to Stream PlayStation 4 Games to Your PC or Mac

Challenges may arise when attempting to utilize a mouse and keyboard for gameplay. While developers possess the capability to integrate mouse and keyboard support into their titles, practical implementation remains limited. A majority of games currently lack native mouse and keyboard control schemes.

Attempting to use these input devices directly with a game often proves unsuccessful. The PlayStation 4’s DualShock 4 controller is typically required for operation. Although controller button remapping is possible, keyboard buttons cannot be reconfigured to emulate controller functions.

Even when employing Remote Play on a PC, keyboard and mouse functionality is not automatically enabled. A DualShock 4 controller remains essential, even while gaming at a computer.

Games with Native Support

Support for mouse and keyboard is uncommon, with a very limited number of titles offering it. Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn and War Thunder, both available on PlayStation 4, are notable exceptions.

This compatibility is logical, given that these are massively multiplayer online games also played by PC gamers utilizing mouse and keyboard controls.

A workaround exists to enable keyboard and mouse input for all PS4 games, though it requires a financial investment. Adapters, such as the Xim 4, are compatible with PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 consoles.

By connecting a keyboard and mouse to the adapter, input signals are translated into DualShock 4 button presses, effectively allowing the PS4 to perceive keyboard and mouse actions as controller commands.

This allows for a PC-like gaming experience on the console. The adapter functions by simulating controller input, deceiving the PS4 into recognizing the devices.

While the Xim 4 carries a price tag of approximately $150, it presents a viable solution. Alternative approaches, like modifying a PS4 controller for direct input, are considerably more complex.

Although we haven't personally tested the Xim 4, user reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Numerous similar adapters are available on platforms like Amazon, often at lower price points.

However, reviews for these cheaper alternatives tend to be less consistent. For instance, a $50 option from MayFlash has received more mixed feedback.

Both the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One technically support mouse and keyboard devices. However, these consoles are fundamentally designed with controller-based gaming in mind.

Even in single-player experiences where competitive balance isn't a factor, developers haven't prioritized the implementation of mouse and keyboard controls—despite the possibility. Consequently, an adapter or a dedicated gaming PC is often necessary to enjoy most games with these input methods.