How Long Does a PS4 Controller Take to Charge?

If you're a dedicated PlayStation 4 gamer, you know how important it is to have your controller fully charged for those long gaming sessions. But how long does it actually take to charge a PS4 remote? Let's break it down and answer that question while offering some tips on how to make sure your controller is always ready for action.

Charging Time for a PS4 Controller

On average, a PS4 controller (also known as the DualShock 4) takes around 2 hours to fully charge when connected to your PlayStation console or a USB charger. This can vary depending on several factors, including the controller's current battery level and the power source you’re using.

• Charging from the PS4 Console: When connected to the PS4 console, it will take about 2 hours for a complete charge. If your PS4 is turned on, it will charge the controller faster. However, charging in Rest Mode can take a bit longer, depending on the settings.

• Charging via Wall Adapter: If you use a wall adapter with a USB cable, you might find that it charges a little faster compared to using the PS4's USB ports. This is particularly true if the adapter provides higher power (e.g., 2.1A).

How to Know Your Controller Is Fully Charged

The LED light bar on the PS4 controller is a handy indicator for battery status:

• Red: This means the controller is charging.
• Orange/White: When the light turns orange or white, your controller is fully charged and ready for gaming.

It’s important to note that if the controller is plugged in and not being used, the LED light will turn off once it's fully charged. This is a nice feature to avoid overcharging and help preserve battery life over time.

Prolonging Battery Life

While the PS4 controller uses a lithium-ion battery, it's still a good idea to follow a few practices to ensure the battery lasts longer:

• Avoid overcharging: Although modern controllers are designed to prevent overcharging, it’s still a good idea to unplug it once it's fully charged to prolong the lifespan of the battery.
• Charge regularly: Don’t let the controller completely run out of battery before charging it. Keeping it between 30% to 80% is optimal for battery health.
• Turn off the controller when not in use: If you’re taking a break from gaming, it’s a good idea to turn off the controller. This can save battery and ensure it’s always ready when you are.

Charging While Gaming

In case you’re in the middle of an epic gaming session and your controller starts to die, don't worry. You can charge your PS4 controller while you play by plugging it into the console or using a charging dock. However, keep in mind that it might take a bit longer to charge while you're still using the controller. So, if you're running low on battery, it might be best to give it a break for a little while to let it charge more effectively.

What If the Controller Isn’t Charging?

If your controller doesn’t seem to charge properly, there could be a few reasons why:

• Faulty cable or port: Sometimes, the issue lies with the USB cable or the console’s USB port. Try using a different cable or port to see if it makes a difference.
• Controller charging port issues: If the charging port on the controller is dirty or damaged, it might not charge properly. A quick clean might do the trick, but if the problem persists, you may need to contact PlayStation support.
• Console settings: If you’re charging through the PS4 console, make sure your PS4 is powered on or set to Rest Mode with the necessary settings enabled to charge controllers.

Final Thoughts

Charging your PS4 controller is a simple task that can help ensure you're ready for your next gaming session. The typical charging time is around 2 hours, and the LED light bar provides clear status updates to make sure you know when you're good to go.

By following a few simple tips, such as turning off the controller when not in use and avoiding overcharging, you can help extend the life of your controller’s battery. Whether you're charging it while gaming or giving it a rest, these small steps will ensure your controller is always ready for your next adventure.

For more tips on gaming accessories, check out our products and recommendations for the best PS4 controllers and other gaming gear to enhance your experience. Stay charged and game on!