A PS4 controller cannot connect to a PS3

The PS4 controller uses a different wireless protocol than the PS3, so it will not pair with a PS3 console no matter what you try. Sony designed the two controllers for their respective systems and did not build backward compatibility between them. If you want to use a wireless controller on PS3, you need a PS3-compatible controller — either an original PS3 controller or a third-party model built for PS3.

The confusion usually comes from the fact that both controllers use Bluetooth, but Bluetooth alone is not enough. The PS4 controller speaks a specific wireless language that PS3 does not understand. Trying to pair them will either fail silently or show a pairing error on your PS3.

Key Takeaways

  • PS4 controllers use a wireless protocol that PS3 consoles do not support, so pairing will not work.
  • Original PS3 controllers (the SIXAXIS or DualShock 3) are still available used and will connect to PS3 via Bluetooth.
  • Third-party PS3 controllers from brands like PDP or PowerA offer wired or wireless options at lower cost than original Sony controllers.
  • If you only have a PS4 controller, you can use it wired on PS3 with a USB cable, though button mapping may be limited.

What wireless controllers actually work on PS3

The SIXAXIS and DualShock 3 are the official PS3 wireless controllers. Both pair with PS3 via Bluetooth and are no longer manufactured by Sony, but used versions are widely available on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and used game retailers. The DualShock 3 is the more common find because it was sold for longer and in larger quantities. Both controllers feel heavier and smaller than a PS4 controller, with a different button layout.

To pair either one, press the PS button on the controller while the PS3 is on. The console will detect it and add it to the system. You may need to charge the controller first if it has been sitting unused — these batteries degrade over time, and a controller that has not been charged in several years may take an hour or more to hold a charge again.

Third-party PS3 controllers as an alternative

If you cannot find an original PS3 controller in good condition, third-party options exist. PDP Performance Designed Products makes wireless PS3 controllers that pair the same way as original Sony controllers. PowerA also sells PS3-compatible wireless controllers. Both brands are sold through Amazon and major retailers, and both cost less than used original controllers in most cases.

The trade-off is that third-party controllers sometimes have slightly different button feel or stick resistance than Sony originals, and some users report connection drops after extended use. Read recent reviews before buying — quality varies between models and manufacturers. Wired third-party PS3 controllers are also available and eliminate the pairing step entirely, though you lose the freedom to sit back from the console.

Using a PS4 controller wired on PS3

If you already own a PS4 controller and want to use it on PS3 without buying another controller, you can plug it in with a USB cable. The PS3 will recognize it as a wired controller. However, the button layout is different — the PS4 has different button positions and trigger design than PS3 — so games may not map the buttons the way you expect.

Some PS3 games let you remap buttons in the settings menu, but many do not. You may find yourself holding the controller in an awkward way to hit the right buttons, or you may discover that certain games do not recognize the PS4 controller at all when wired. This works best for games with simple controls or games you know well enough to adapt to the different layout.

Checking battery condition on older controllers

PS3 controllers from 10 or more years ago often have batteries that no longer hold a charge, even if the controller itself works fine. If you find a used SIXAXIS or DualShock 3 that will not turn on, the battery may be dead rather than the controller being broken. These batteries can sometimes be replaced — the controller case opens with a small screwdriver, and replacement lithium batteries are sold online for under $20.

Before you replace the battery, charge the controller for at least two hours using any USB cable. If it still will not power on, the battery is likely the problem. If you are not comfortable opening the controller yourself, some game shops and electronics repair places will do it for a small fee, or you can buy a pre-assembled replacement controller for less than the cost of a repair.

Where to find PS3 controllers now

Original PS3 controllers are no longer in production, so your options are used market, third-party new, or wired. eBay and Facebook Marketplace usually have several listings at any time, with prices ranging from $25 to $50 depending on condition and whether the battery holds charge. Game resale shops like GameStop sometimes stock used controllers, though selection is limited. Local retro game shops are worth checking if you have one nearby.

New third-party wireless controllers run $30 to $50 and come with a warranty, which used controllers do not. New wired controllers are usually cheaper, around $20 to $30. If you plan to use the controller regularly, the warranty and may provide battery life of a new third-party controller may be worth the cost over hunting for a used original.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a PS4 controller on PS3 if I update the PS3 firmware?

No. Firmware updates do not change the wireless protocol that the PS3 uses. The incompatibility is built into the hardware, not the software. Updating will not make a PS4 controller pair with PS3.

Will a PS3 controller work on PS4?

No, the incompatibility goes both directions. PS4 will not recognize a PS3 controller, wired or wireless. You need a PS4-compatible controller to play on PS4.

What if my PS3 controller is not charging?

Try a different USB cable first — the cable may be damaged. If a different cable does not work, the battery may be dead. Older PS3 controllers often need battery replacement after 10 years. You can replace the battery yourself with a screwdriver and a replacement battery kit, or buy a new controller.

Can I use a keyboard and mouse on PS3 instead?

Some PS3 games support keyboard and mouse, but most do not. Check the game's manual or the PlayStation Store page to see if it lists keyboard support. Even if it does, you still need a controller for the PS3 menu itself.