PS4 Remote Play: Stream Games to PC or Mac

PlayStation 4 Remote Play Now Available for Windows and Mac

Sony’s PlayStation 4 console now offers the capability to stream games directly to both Windows PCs and Mac computers through a function known as Remote Play.

This functionality enables gamers to enjoy their PS4 titles on their personal computers or laptops, circumventing the need to occupy the television when other household members wish to use it.

Expanding Accessibility

While not a completely novel feature, as Remote Play has previously been compatible with select Sony devices, it now extends to a wider range of platforms.

Previously, users could unofficially stream PS4 games to Android devices. This new update broadens accessibility to desktop operating systems.

Key Differences from Competitors

Unlike Microsoft’s game streaming solution for the Xbox One, which is limited to local network connections, PS4’s Remote Play operates over the internet.

This distinction allows for gameplay from virtually any location with a stable internet connection.

Platform Support

Furthermore, Remote Play distinguishes itself by supporting game streaming to Mac computers, in addition to Windows PCs.

This wider compatibility provides greater flexibility for PlayStation 4 owners who prefer to game on Apple’s operating system.

Essential Requirements

For those interested: A guide on streaming games from your PlayStation 4 to any Android device is also available.

Successful game streaming to your computer or Mac necessitates PlayStation 4 firmware version 3.50 or a subsequent release. Verify your PS4 is running the newest software by navigating to the Settings menu and choosing "System Software Update." The system will then automatically check for and download any pending updates.

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Sony stipulates a minimum Internet connection speed of 12Mbps for both download and upload to guarantee a smooth streaming experience. If you are uncertain about your connection speed, utilize the SpeedTest website to perform a quick assessment. However, this requirement applies only when streaming games across the Internet; a local network connection bypasses this need.

Your computer must be running Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 to utilize the Remote Play feature. Unfortunately, Windows 7 is not compatible, though a free upgrade to Windows 10 remains an option. For optimal performance, Sony suggests a processor of at least an Intel Core i5-560M at 2.67GHz, coupled with 2GB of RAM.

Mac users will require either OS X Yosemite or OS X El Capitan. A minimum specification of an Intel Core i5-520M processor running at 2.40 GHz, alongside 2GB of RAM, is recommended by Sony for the best results.

Initiating Remote Play on Your PlayStation 4

To begin, ensure that Remote Play is activated on your PlayStation 4 console. Navigate to the Settings menu on your PS4. Then, choose "Remote Play Connection Settings" from the available options.

Within this section, locate and enable the "Enable Remote Play" feature. This will prepare your console for streaming to other devices.

Activating Primary PS4 Status

Following this, return to the main Settings screen and select "PlayStation Network/Account Management." From here, choose "Activate as Your Primary PS4" and confirm your selection using the "Activate" button.

The PlayStation 4 designated as your primary console will automatically become the source for Remote Play streaming.

Configuring Power Save Settings for Remote Access

Next, revisit the main Settings screen and select "Power Save Settings." Within this menu, choose "Set Features Available in Rest Mode."

Ensure that both "Stay Connected to the Internet" and "Enable Turning on of PS4 from Network" are enabled. This configuration allows the Remote Play application to wake your PS4 from rest mode.

Consequently, you'll be able to connect and start playing games more rapidly without needing to manually power on the console.

Setting Up Remote Play on Your Computer

The next step involves downloading the Remote Play application for either Windows or macOS from the official Sony website onto your computer. Proceed with the installation process as you would with any other software.

After installation, initiate the PS4 Remote Play application. You will then be prompted to establish a connection between a PlayStation 4 DualShock 4 controller and your computer using a USB cable. Currently, Sony officially supports controller connectivity solely through a USB connection, even though Bluetooth pairing is possible.

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Select "Start" to begin the sign-in process using your PlayStation Network account, the same one utilized on your PS4. Access the application’s Settings menu and log in with your PS4’s associated PlayStation Network credentials. This action establishes a link between the Remote Play application and your console.

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Upon successful connection, the PS4 controller, now linked via Remote Play, will allow you to remotely operate your console. Games can be launched and will execute on the PS4, with the video stream being transmitted to your computer. The gameplay experience will mirror that of direct console access, though some latency and a slight reduction in graphical fidelity may be noticeable.

To maximize your viewing experience, simply move your mouse cursor over the application window. A button will appear in the bottom-right corner; select this to activate full-screen mode.

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Allow the application a few minutes to locate your PS4 if it doesn't connect immediately; patience is key during this process.

Adjusting Graphical and Performance Settings

The graphical settings within Remote Play can be customized by selecting the "Settings" button located on the primary interface. Users have the choice of three resolution options: High (720p), Standard (540p), and Low (360p). While Standard resolution is the default, experimenting with High is recommended to achieve optimal visual fidelity.

Should you encounter issues such as video stuttering or audio disruptions, reducing the resolution setting can improve streaming performance. Currently, Remote Play does not support streaming at 1080p resolution.

Frame Rate Options

In addition to resolution, you can also choose between Standard and High frame rates, with Standard being the default selection. Opting for High will deliver a more fluid streaming experience.

However, utilizing the High frame rate necessitates a more robust network connection to the PS4. It's important to note that the PS4’s internal gameplay recording features will be deactivated when High frame rate is enabled.

High frame rate is best suited for home network environments with a fast and stable Wi-Fi connection or a wired Ethernet connection for both the PS4 and your computer. Testing the High setting and reverting to Standard if performance is unsatisfactory is always a viable approach.

Resolving Connection and Streaming Issues with PS4 Remote Play

Should the Remote Play application fail to automatically locate your PS4 console, a manual pairing process is available. Initiate this by selecting the "Register Manually" option presented when the app encounters connection difficulties.

Subsequently, a pairing code is required. This code can be obtained through your PS4’s settings menu. Navigate to Settings > Remote Play Connection Settings, then choose "Add Device" to retrieve the necessary code for input into the application.

Optimizing Streaming Performance

If you experience a choppy or unstable connection during streaming, consider adjusting the resolution and frame rate settings. Lowering these values reduces the required bandwidth, potentially improving performance on slower internet connections.

For in-home streaming problems, an outdated wireless router could be the source of the issue. Upgrading to a newer model may provide the necessary Wi-Fi speed improvements.

Alternatively, a direct connection between your PS4 and PC using an Ethernet cable can bypass Wi-Fi limitations. This wired connection offers faster, more reliable speeds and eliminates concerns about wireless signal strength.

Final Thoughts on PS4 Remote Play

Sony's Remote Play functionality is generally effective and is expected to improve with future updates. The lack of support for Windows 7 is a notable limitation, given the operating system’s continued usage.

Furthermore, the necessity of a USB connection for the controller is inconvenient. While streaming in 1080p would be desirable, the PS4’s hardware may not be capable of consistently supporting this resolution.

Despite these drawbacks, Remote Play remains a valuable feature, particularly for households where TV access is shared among multiple users.