PS3:Using PS4/PS5/Xbox Controllers

Disclaimer: The Pros and Cons of each solution are likely incomplete, please research each solution before committing to one as to avoid disappointment.

Many generic gamepads (Including the DualShock 4 and DualSense) can be connected to the PS3 without a controller adapter even with the console's Bluetooth, but will have several limitations. These include:

• Limited game support
• No SIXAXIS (Even when using a controller with a gyroscope)
• No pressure sensitive buttons
• No vibration
• No support in safe mode
• The controller's home button will not work (You will need to use either a normal SIXAXIS, DualShock 3, official Blu-Ray remote, or webMAN MOD's home button shortcut to access it.)

Pressure sensitive face buttons require an OEM DualShock 2 (with USB adapter), OEM Sixaxis, OEM DualShock 3, or Retro Fighters Defender. Most third party PS2 and PS3 controllers tend to not include them. SIXAXIS also tends to be skipped or unreliable on most non-OEM PS3 controllers, but can be used on gyroscopic contollers with certain adapters.

The earlier Xbox One controllers (Models 1567 and 1697) are RF only. The original Elite controller (Model 1698) is also RF only. You can't use them with wirelessly with most controller adapters, but can be used on a wired connection while plugged into a USB adapter. They may also work wirelessly when paired with the dedicated Xbox Wireless Adapter in addition to a controller adapter. (The Xbox Wireless Adapter by itself will not natively work on the PS3.)

When using multiple controllers with controller adapters, it is required to have an adapter for each gamepad no matter what adapter is used.

Software Solutions

PS3XPAD

Pros:

• No additional cost.

Cons:

• Does not work in safe mode.
• Does not work in PS2 or PSP games.
• Developer does not appear to be supporting the software anymore.
• Controller support varies.
• Wireless DualShock 4 either requires a USB Bluetooth adapter or DEX firmware.

Hardware Solutions

Cronus ZEN

• If you have Smart TV with Bluetooth, turn off your TV during the pairing process.
• View the official setup guides for detailed information.

Pros:

• You only have to pair once.
• Most PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series, and Xbox One controllers are supported wired and wirelessly.
• Works in safe mode.
• Works with PS1, PSP, and PS2 games. (Including native PS2 mode on early consoles)
• Sixaxis with gyro enabled controllers is supported.
• Supports button remapping.
• Compatible with several consoles.
• Fully featured PC configuration tool.
• Can convert keyboard & mouse inputs into controller inputs.
• Supports connectivity with the PS Move controllers.

Cons:

• Extremely expensive compared to other adapters.
• Configuration requires a Windows computer.
• DualSense controllers cannot be used wirelessly.
• Using Xbox One or Series controllers wirelessly with a Cronus ZEN requires an Xbox Wireless Adapter, even if it's a model that supports Bluetooth.

Wingman XE 2

• If you have Smart TV with Bluetooth, turn off your TV during the pairing process.

Pros:

• You only have to pair once.
• Most PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series, and Xbox One controllers are supported wired and wirelessly.

The newer Xbox One controllers (Model 1708) and Elite Series 2 controllers can be used wirelessly, as they support Bluetooth. The aforementioned 1567/1697/1698 models cannot be used wirelessly.

• Works in safe mode.
• Works with PS1, PSP, and PS2 games. (Including native PS2 mode on early consoles)
• Sixaxis with gyro enabled controllers is supported.
• Supports button remapping.
• The Wingman XE 2 is also fully supported on the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to most adapters.

Magic-NS, S, or X

• Put the adapter into DInput mode (blue light) and pair your controller with the adapter.
• If you have Smart TV with Bluetooth, turn off your TV during the pairing process.
• All versions of the Mayflash adapters are compatible with the PS3. NS is for Nintendo Switch (although the S & X support the Switch too), S can support the PS4, and X can support the Xbox One/Series.

Pros:

• You only have to pair once.
• Also works with PS1, PSP, and PS2 games. (Only with emulated PS2 Classics)
• All official and OEM PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series (Model 1914), and Xbox One (Model 1708) controllers are supported.
• The Switch (NS) and PlayStation 4 (S) versions are cheap.
• Compatible with PC and several consoles.
• Works in safe mode.

Cons:

• Sixaxis is not supported, even with a gyro enabled controller.
• Native PS2 mode on CECH-A/B/C/E fats is not supported.

GIMX

Pros:

• Can be built for cheaper than a purchased solution.
• Works in safe mode.

Cons:

• Wired connection only
• If building your own, requires basic knowledge on using a microcontroller such as an Arduino Leonardo.
• Sixaxis isn't supported, even with a gyro enabled controller.