As an experienced gamer, I often get asked how to use a PS5 without a controller. While playing games does require a controller, you can still navigate the PS5’s menus and access media apps without one. After researching the topic extensively, here is my guide on operating a PS5 without a controller.
Table of Contents
Enable Remote Play
The key to using your PS5 without a controller is the Remote Play feature. Remote Play allows you to control your PS5 remotely from another device like a phone, tablet, or computer. Here’s how to set it up:
- On your PS5, go to Settings > System > Remote Play and enable it.
- Also enable Stay Connected to the Internet and Enable Turning On PS5 from Network in Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode. This allows Remote Play even when the PS5 is powered off.
Install Remote Play App
You’ll then need to install the PS Remote Play app on your phone, tablet, or computer. It’s available on Android, iOS devices, Windows PC and Mac. Follow the app’s on-screen instructions to sign into your PSN account and connect to your PS5.
Once connected, you’ll see your PS5’s screen mirrored on your device. You can then use the on-screen controls in the app to navigate menus, launch games and apps, watch movies and more – no controller required!
Use Keyboard and Mouse
You can also connect a keyboard and mouse to your PS5 via USB or Bluetooth. This allows you to navigate the system menus and launch apps and games.
To enable this, go to Settings > System > System Software > Keyboard and Mouse and select your input method. The mouse acts as a replacement for the controller’s directional buttons.
Set Up HDMI Device Link
Using your TV remote is another handy way to control basic functions on your PS5 without a controller. Enable HDMI Device Link under Settings > System > HDMI to pair your devices.
You can then use your TV remote to navigate menus, launch media apps like Netflix, control playback and volume, and power the PS5 on/off. Note you can’t play PS5 games with a TV remote.
Use Voice Commands
With the PS5’s Voice Command preview enabled, you can control certain functions with your voice. Go to Settings > Voice Command (Preview) to enable it and tweak options like speech rate.
Voice commands allow you to open games/apps, capture screenshots, play/pause media and more. Just say “Hey PlayStation” followed by your command.
Connect Extra Controller
If you have an extra PS4 or PS5 controller available, you can use it to navigate your main controllerless PS5 system and re-pair your original controller. Under Settings > Accessories, select your extra controller and use it temporarily.
Use Mobile Controller
You can also connect a mobile gaming controller like the Backbone One to your phone while using PS Remote Play. This allows you to control your PS5 games from your phone with physical controls.
So in summary, with Remote Play enabled and extra input devices connected, you can use your PS5 without needing a DualSense controller in your hands. Convenient features like voice commands and HDMI device link make a controller optional for basic navigation. Let me know if you have any other questions!
