The PS4 controller is a fantastic piece of hardware. For many years, the PlayStation has personified the maxim “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” The design has stayed virtually unaltered since the initial PS4 controller EXT port to USB launch, with the exception of the addition of thumbsticks and a touchpad at various points during the gaming era.
However, there is one enigmatic Jack about whom relatively few people are aware. The other buttons, such as the X, Square, Triangle, and O, have detailed definitions of what they do; the rest speak for themselves. But what about the PS4 controller ext port? What precisely does this mean?
If you’re wondering what the ext port on the PS4 controller’s EXT port to USB is for, EXT stands for “extension.” In any case, because it’s so small, you’re unlikely to notice it, which is a good thing. Its utility will be restricted unless you have a specific requirement, which will be uncommon if you have other options. And believe me, despite playing the ext on the PS4 controller for well over a hundred hours, I don’t believe I’ve ever used it. However, there are a few uses for it that we will uncover.
Intended use of Extension Port
The extension port on DualShock PS4 controller Charging Station was used for charging purposes, but as technology advanced, so did Sony play out the design elements.
- Custom charging docks
- Connecting mini–QWERTY keyboards
Sony could have used the micro-PS4 controller charging port type, which was widely used in different products. The answer could be the possible misuse of different chargers. Micro-USB ports and chargers are the most common electronic equipment after smartphones, and access to one is even easier. But it raises another question. Should you use a 3-amp charger for your 1000 mAh PS4 controller battery?
Well, in our opinion, the best and most satisfactory reason Sony promotes the eSATA port on the PS4 controller over other possible ports could be to push the sales of their proprietary charger. If Sony had used a micro-USB port and users accidentally blew their controller batteries, sales and revenue would have increased. But a brand such as Sony cannot rely on a negative aspect for its promotion.
In times when there are multiple competitors, Xbox has been on its heels. A brand of such magnitude has to think over multiple possible outcomes, as the term “risk” or an unplanned launch can be disastrous for their reputation in the market.
For Charging
How to Charge the PlayStation 4 Controller from the Bottom Another motivation to use the PS4 controller extension connector could be to use the development prototype and benefit from research. In terms of charging speed, this port outperforms traditional micro-USB connectors. Furthermore, including a new port design for a dock-type recharge improves the controller’s longevity. Dock chargers keep the external PS4 controller off the shelf, and the possibilities of physical or electrical harm are quite low.
Using Keyboards
In early 2014, Bluetooth devices and attachments were not that popular. Another common application for these Ext port extension cables was to connect wired mini keyboards. These devices, however, are not available these days because cheaper Bluetooth options are available.
Myths
There is a lot of misinformation about the PS4 controller charger being used for microphones and attaching various pieces of equipment. However, the device already features a 3.5 mm audio connector for earphones, headphones, or a full-bodied external PS4 controller. We’re not even sure if the extension port can be utilised to transmit audio, even if a custom earphone with the extension port makes it into production. If this is the case, it would mean the death of the audio jack; however, we doubt Sony would go for such a separate connectivity option in the future. However, such a development would be quite fascinating. Nonetheless, cost is a key selling feature for even the most recent generation of gaming consoles.
DualShock 4 Charging Station
The real purpose of the DualShock 4’s EXT port is to charge the controller via the charging station. You can charge your controller by placing it on the PS4 controller charging station, just like the USB port on the back. Simply place your controllers on the charging dock, and they will begin charging. It has enough space to charge two separate controllers at the same time.
The charging station also functions as a stand and looks nice on a desk. The dock is not included with the PS4 and must be purchased separately. Aside from the official Sony charging station, many other brands sell similar charging docks on Amazon. Sony has also introduced a DualSense charging station for PlayStation 5 controllers. The item is in high demand and is limited to one per household.
Dualshock 4 Back Button Attachment
The back button attachment for the DualShock 4 controller is another accessory that can be attached via the PS4 controller charging station. It adds two additional buttons to the controller’s back as well as a small round-shaped LED screen on the back to control your presets. You can connect it to your controller via the adjustable 3.5mm jack and the EXT port (both at the same time). It’s pretty well held in place once it’s on.
Many of you may not even be aware of what the back button attachment is. This Ext Port cable gives your DualShock 4 two completely remappable buttons on the back of the controller. This is something that can be found in many of the higher-end controllers on the market. The most notable example is Microsoft’s Elite Series ext. on the PS4 controller. You may be familiar with scuff controllers, which offer back buttons for well over a hundred to two hundred dollars. And, at around $30, this is Sony’s first official offering and a retroactively cost-effective solution.
Charging Comparison between the DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers
When we compare the charging port on DualShock 4 controllers to the latest released PlayStation 5 controllers, we notice that the DualSense controller uses an Ext port cable with a more user-friendly pin design that uses pins for maintaining contact with the circuit rather than a port. In terms of charging speeds, there isn’t much to choose between. After a few months of use, we’ll be able to shed some light on the situation.
Headset and headphones
So, while this one is self-explanatory, the EXT port is used to insert a PS4 ext port headset or microphone set into.Unfortunately, I’ve heard that those are no longer in production, but older models can be found on eBay, Amazon, and other online marketplaces.
You can also plug in any headphones that are compatible with the port, so if you have any lying around, they should work. That being said, I don’t believe Xbox PS4 external port headsets are compatible with the PS4, but you’re welcome to give it a shot.
It may work with the PlayStation VR function, but I have no confirmation, so give it a shot but be prepared to fail. Other accessories may be able to be connected to the EXT port if you have them, but I’m sure you’re aware of how rarely the ext port on the PS4 controller is used.So if you can’t find any, you’re not missing out on much.
Conclusion
The facts show that using an extension port on DualShock EX controllers on PS4 is the next step forward. Although charging performance remains virtually unchanged, the new ports will undoubtedly provide greater longevity for both the port and the battery.