The release of the Playstation 5 (PS5) in November 2020 has been met with much anticipation and excitement from gamers around the world. Along with its impressive graphics and performance, the PS5 also comes with a new controller known as the DualSense. This controller boasts advanced haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, providing an immersive gaming experience like never before.
However, with these advanced features comes a common concern among gamers – battery life. The PS5 DualSense controller has a reputation for draining its battery quickly, leaving players frustrated and forced to constantly recharge. But fear not, in this article, we will explore various tips and tricks on how to make your PS5 DualSense controller battery last longer. So sit back, relax, and read on to improve your gaming experience.
Understanding the Battery Life of the DualSense Controller
Before we dive into ways to extend the battery life of your DualSense controller, let’s first understand some important details about its battery. The DualSense controller uses a built-in rechargeable battery that has a capacity of 1560 mAh. This is slightly lower than the previous generation DualShock 4 controller’s battery capacity of 2000 mAh.
The lower battery capacity may be concerning to some, but it’s worth noting that the DualSense controller uses newer technology and features that require more power. Additionally, the USB-C charging port on the controller allows for a faster charging time, making up for the lower battery capacity.
On average, the DualSense controller can provide approximately 12-15 hours of gameplay on a single charge. However, this can vary depending on several factors such as vibration intensity, use of the adaptive triggers, and the type of game being played. Now, let’s move on to some practical ways to increase the battery life of your DualSense controller.
Adjusting the Controller Settings
The first and most effective way to extend your DualSense controller’s battery life is by adjusting its settings. By tweaking a few settings, you can significantly reduce the battery consumption of your controller. Here are some settings you can change:
Reduce Vibration Intensity
The haptic feedback feature on the DualSense controller is one of its biggest selling points. However, this feature also consumes a significant amount of battery power. By reducing the vibration intensity, you can save a good amount of battery life.
To do this, go to “Settings” on your PS5 console, then select “Accessories”. Under “Controllers”, choose “Vibration Intensity” and adjust it to your preferred level. You can even turn off the vibration completely for an even longer battery life.
Turn Off Adaptive Triggers
Similar to the haptic feedback, the adaptive triggers on the DualSense controller also use a lot of battery power. These triggers provide resistance in certain games, adding to the immersive experience. However, not all games require this feature, so turning it off can help preserve battery life.
To disable the adaptive triggers, go to “Settings” on your PS5 console and select “Accessory Settings”. Choose “Adaptive Triggers” and toggle it off. You can always turn it back on for games that make use of this feature.
Adjust the Brightness of the Light Bar
The light bar on the DualSense controller can also be a culprit when it comes to battery drain. By default, the brightness of the light bar is set to maximum, which can significantly impact battery life. Lowering the brightness or completely turning off the light bar can save power.
To adjust the brightness, go to “Settings” on your PS5 console, then select “Accessory Settings”. Choose “Brightness of DUALSHOCK 4 Light Bar” and adjust it according to your preference.
Enable Power Saving Mode
Another useful setting that can help extend battery life is the “Power Saving Mode”. This mode automatically puts your DualSense controller into rest mode after 10 minutes of inactivity. This will not only save battery life but also prevent accidental inputs and button presses.
To enable this, go to “Settings” on your PS5 console and select “System”. Under “System”, choose “Power Saving” and then “Set Time Until Controllers Turn Off”. Select 10 minutes and your controller will enter rest mode after 10 minutes of inactivity.
Charging Your Controller Properly
Charging your DualSense controller correctly is crucial for maintaining its battery life. Improper charging habits can result in a shorter battery lifespan, ultimately leading to more frequent charging and replacement of the controller. Here are some tips for optimal charging:
Use the Included USB-C Cable
The DualSense controller comes with a USB-C cable for charging. It’s essential to use this cable or a certified third-party cable to avoid any damage to the controller’s battery. Using a regular USB-A to USB-C cable may not provide enough power, resulting in slower charging times.
Avoid Overcharging
Leaving your controller plugged in overnight or for extended periods can overcharge the battery, reducing its overall lifespan. It’s recommended to unplug the controller once it’s fully charged.
Charge When the Battery is Low
It’s best to charge your DualSense controller when the battery is low, typically at around 20%. Constantly recharging your controller when the battery is only partially drained can also impact its battery life.
Adjusting Gameplay Settings
Apart from adjusting controller settings, there are also some changes you can make within games that can help extend your DualSense controller’s battery life. Here are some tips:
Turn Off In-Game Controller Features
Some games have their own vibration and adaptive trigger settings that may differ from the default settings on your PS5. It’s a good idea to check these settings and turn off any features that are not necessary for gameplay, as they can contribute to battery drain.
Turn Off Voice Chat
If you’re playing a game that has voice chat capabilities, consider turning it off when not in use. Keeping the voice chat on will require the controller to constantly stay connected to the internet, using up more battery power.
Use Headphones
While this may seem counterintuitive, using headphones can actually help save battery life. The DualSense controller has a built-in microphone that is always active, even if you’re not using it. This constant use of the microphone can drain the battery, so by using headphones, you can turn off the microphone and save some battery power.
Other Tips for Extending Battery Life
Apart from the mentioned methods, here are some additional tips that can help improve the battery life of your DualSense controller:
Keep Your Controller Cool
Excessive heat can negatively impact a lithium-ion battery’s lifespan. It’s important to keep your controller cool, especially during charging. Avoid placing it near other heat-generating devices or in direct sunlight.
Disconnect Unused Controllers
If you have multiple controllers connected to your PS5, it’s best to disconnect the ones you’re not using. Unused controllers still consume battery power when connected, so unplugging them can help save power.
Use the PS5 Rest Mode
When taking a break from gaming, it’s recommended to put your PS5 console into rest mode rather than turning it off completely. In this mode, the controller also enters rest mode, saving battery power.
Invest in an Extra Controller
Lastly, if you’re a heavy gamer who frequently uses the controller, investing in an extra one can be beneficial. This way, you can switch between controllers when one runs out of battery, allowing the other to charge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the PS5 DualSense controller’s battery life may not be as long-lasting as its predecessors, but by following the tips mentioned above, you can significantly improve it. By adjusting settings, charging properly, and making small changes in gameplay, you can enjoy extended gaming sessions without worrying about your controller’s battery dying. With these tips in mind, go ahead and make the most out of your PS5 DualSense controller and have a great gaming experience!
