The PlayStation 4 (PS4) has been a gaming staple for millions worldwide, and one of the most essential components is the PS4 controller, often referred to as the “remote.” Gamers rely on this controller to provide a smooth gaming experience. However, frequent gaming sessions mean frequent charging. This guide explores everything you need to know about how long does a PS4 remote take to charge, as well as tips for faster charging and more.
How Long Does It Take for a PS4 Remote to Charge?
When asking how long does it take for a PS4 remote to charge, the answer depends on several factors, including the age of the controller, the method of charging, and the level of charge desired. Generally, it takes approximately 2 hours to fully charge a PS4 controller from a completely drained state. This is when the controller is charging in a standard manner and not being used.
If the controller is only partially drained, the charging time can be significantly reduced. Additionally, certain charging methods and devices may influence this time. Let’s break down this topic further and cover some popular questions related to charging a PS4 remote.
Can You Use a PS4 Remote While It’s Charging?
One common question is can you use a PS4 remote while it’s charging. The answer is yes! You can absolutely use a PS4 controller while it’s plugged in and charging. When you’re in the middle of a game and don’t want to stop for a recharge, simply connect the controller to the console or a compatible charging device, and it will continue charging while you play.
However, there is a catch. Using the controller while charging does slightly slow down the charging process. This is because the controller is consuming energy even as it replenishes its battery. Despite this, the delay is relatively minor, and you can still get back to a full charge without pausing your game.
How Do I Know When My PS4 Controller Is Charged?
Knowing when your PS4 controller is fully charged is simple, thanks to the built-in LED indicator. When you plug in the controller to charge, an orange light will pulsate on the top of the controller. Once the controller is fully charged, this light will turn off, indicating that the charging process is complete. You can also check the battery status on the screen:
- Go to the Quick Menu on your PS4.
- Navigate to Devices, and then select Controllers.
- Here, you’ll see a battery indicator that will show the current charge level.
Once the light turns off and the battery indicator displays a full charge, you’ll know your controller is ready for another long gaming session.
How to Charge a PS4 Controller Fast?
For those wondering how to charge a PS4 controller fast, there are a few tips and tricks you can try to maximize charging speed:
- Use a Wall Charger: Although the PS4 console provides a convenient charging method, a wall charger with a higher output (such as 5V/2A) may charge the controller faster than a console USB port, which typically outputs lower power.
- Use a Charging Dock: PS4 charging docks, often made by third-party brands, are designed to quickly charge one or more controllers. They are optimized for rapid charging and can sometimes cut down the charge time.
- Turn Off the Controller While Charging: When the controller is not in use, it will charge faster. Therefore, turning off the controller entirely (by holding the PS button for about 10 seconds until it powers down) can help speed up charging.
- Check the Cable Quality: Not all USB cables are created equal. Some cables can restrict the current, which may slow down charging. Use the original PS4 cable if possible or a high-quality third-party cable designed for data and charging.
- Avoid Hot Environments: Heat can negatively impact battery performance and charging speed. Try to charge the controller in a cool, ventilated area for optimal results.
How Long Does It Take to Charge a PS4 Controller to 2 Bars?
If you’re charging the controller to 2 bars, the process generally takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. The PS4 controller’s battery icon shows its power level in bars, where a full charge is represented by three bars. When the controller reaches two bars, it’s approximately two-thirds full, meaning you still have a decent amount of playtime ahead, especially if you’re low on time and need a quick recharge.
How Long Does It Take to Charge a PS4 Controller to 1 Bar?
Charging a PS4 controller to just 1 bar will take roughly 30-45 minutes. At one bar, you have enough power to play for a short session but will likely need to recharge soon after. Some players prefer this quick charge approach when they need just a bit of power to complete a short task or finish a game level. However, keep in mind that constantly charging to one bar and then draining it may wear down the battery over time.
How Long Does It Take for a PS4 Controller to Charge to 3 Bars?
A PS4 controller at 3 bars is fully charged, and as mentioned, this will usually take about 2 hours. A fully charged controller gives you anywhere from 4 to 8 hours of gameplay, depending on factors like vibration settings, light bar brightness, and usage intensity. To preserve battery health, it’s ideal to charge to full whenever possible and avoid over-draining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Does My PS4 Controller Take Longer Than Expected to Charge?
While it normally takes about 2 hours for a PS4 remote to fully charge, there are instances where it could take longer. Factors that could affect this include the age of the battery (older batteries tend to charge more slowly), the quality of the USB cable, and the temperature of the room.
Can I Charge a PS4 Controller With a Phone Charger?
Yes, you can charge your PS4 controller with a phone charger, but you’ll want to make sure the output matches the controller’s needs. Using a 5V/2A output is recommended, as higher outputs may potentially harm the controller’s battery in the long run.
Does the PS4 Controller Battery Drain Faster When Using Headphones?
Yes, using headphones or any audio device connected directly to the controller can drain the battery faster. This means you may need to charge your controller more frequently, as the additional power needed to support audio will cause the battery to deplete faster.
Tips to Prolong Your PS4 Controller Battery Life
- Adjust Light Bar Brightness: The light bar on the PS4 controller can drain battery life over time. In the settings, you can dim the light bar to extend your battery usage.
- Lower Volume for Controller Audio: If you’re using headphones or a headset, reducing the audio volume can help save battery.
- Disable Vibration: Vibration, while immersive, consumes a lot of power. Consider turning it off in the game or console settings for prolonged battery life.
- Disconnect Controller When Not in Use: When not using the controller, turn it off completely. This prevents unnecessary power usage.
- Keep Controller Firmware Updated: Updates can sometimes improve battery efficiency. Check for any firmware updates on your PS4 to make sure your controller runs as efficiently as possible.
Conclusion
Understanding how long does a PS4 remote take to charge is essential for managing your gameplay effectively. On average, it takes about 2 hours to fully charge a PS4 controller, providing a decent amount of uninterrupted playtime. Charging time can vary based on the charging method, controller usage, and other conditions.
Whether you’re curious about how long it takes to charge a PS4 controller to 2 bars or seeking tips on how to charge a PS4 controller fast, this guide should equip you with everything you need to maximize both charge speed and battery life.