Being an avid PS4 gamer, my DualShock 4 controller is my trusty companion in virtual adventures.
We’ve all been there mid-boss battle, adrenaline pumping, victory within reach…and then, the dreaded blinking orange light. Your PS4 Controller is dying, and your glorious quest for virtual loot is on hold. But fear not fellow gamers! Knowing how long it takes to charge your trusty DualShock can turn this moment of pause into a strategic power-up session.
In this article, we will delve into the charging times for the PS4 controller and explore the factors that can influence the charging process.
How long does a PS4 remote take to charge
In ideal conditions, a completely drained PS4 controller takes about 2 hours to reach full charge. That’s roughly the length of a good TV show episode, a solid workout session, or the time it takes to craft the perfect Minecraft tower (don’t judge). So, you can grab a snack, stretch your legs, or even squeeze in a quick online match while your remote refuels.
As a PS4 user, I’ve come to realize that not all charging sessions are created equal. The charging cable and source matter more than I initially thought. Using the official charging cable and connecting directly to the PS4 console speeds up the process. Third-party cables and USB ports on other devices can introduce some unpredictable variations in charging times.
But Wait, There’s More!
However, this 2-hour magic number isn’t set in stone. Several factors can influence your charging time:
- Battery Age: Like any good warrior, your remote’s battery loses its edge over time. Older batteries might take closer to 2.5 hours to fully recharge.
- Charging Source: Plugging your controller into the PS4 itself is the most reliable option, but it’s not the fastest. A dedicated charging dock or a high-powered USB port can shave off some minutes.
- Controller Usage: Multitasking master? Using your controller while it’s charging will slow down the process. Think of it as trying to fill a leaky bucket while it’s still pouring!
- Environmental Factors: Extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold) can affect battery performance and slow down charging. Aim for a comfortable room temperature for optimal juice-up time.
Pro Tips for Speedy Charging:
- Power Down!: Put your PS4 in rest mode while charging. This ensures power flows freely to your controller instead of being divided between games and other functions.
- USB Port Powerhouse: Skip the standard port on your computer and plug into a dedicated charger with a higher output (5V/800mA or more).
- The Light Bar Tells All: Keep an eye on the controller’s light bar. A slow, orange blink means it’s charging, while a solid white light indicates a full charge.
- Invest in a Spare: Having a second controller at the ready eliminates downtime altogether. You can charge one while using the other and swap seamlessly, like a seasoned warrior wielding twin blades.
Charging Time for 1 Bar:
When your PS4 controller reaches the minimum charge level of one bar, it’s time to plug it in for a recharge. On average, it takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to charge the controller from one bar to a full three bars. However, the charging time may vary based on several factors.
Factors Affecting Charging Time:
- Battery Capacity: The PS4 controller has a 1000mAh battery capacity. The larger the capacity, the longer it takes to charge fully.
- Charging Source: Charging the controller using the official charging cable and a direct connection to the PS4 console tends to be faster than using third-party chargers or USB ports on other devices.
- Controller Usage: Charging times can be influenced by how much power the controller has consumed during gameplay. If the battery is nearly depleted, it may take longer to charge.
Charging Time for 2 Bars and 3 Bars:
As the battery level increases, the charging time may slightly extend. Charging the controller from two bars to a full three bars generally takes around 1 to 2 hours. Again, the factors mentioned above will play a role in determining the precise charging duration.
Conclusion
The charging times for a PS4 controller can vary based on different factors, but with the right conditions, you can expect a relatively quick recharge, allowing you to get back to your gaming adventures without significant delays.