Have you ever been deep into an intense online multiplayer match in your favorite PS4 game and desperately needed to communicate with your teammates? You scramble for your headset only to realize you don’t have one! If this scenario sounds familiar, you’ve probably wondered: Does the PS4 controller have a built-in microphone?
The short answer is no. Unfortunately, Sony did not include microphone capabilities in their standard PS4 controller. But don’t worry, you have options! In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using a microphone with your PS4 controller.
Overview of PS4 Controller and Microphone Capabilities
First, let’s start with a quick history lesson. The original PlayStation console launched in 1994 with the standard controller that featured a simple button layout without analog sticks or vibration. Fast forward to 2000 when the PlayStation 2 introduced the DualShock 2 controller, adding analog sticks, force feedback and more buttons. This evolved into the PS3’s DualShock 3 controller and finally the current DualShock 4 controller for PS4, which has an integrated speaker, touchpad and other features but no built-in microphone.
The standard PS4 controller itself does not have any internal microphone. This means you won’t be able to chat with your teammates using just the controller alone. But don’t ditch that multiplayer match just yet! There are a few different options to add microphone capabilities to your PS4 controller setup.
Wired Headsets
One of the easiest options is to use a wired headset that connects directly to your controller’s 3.5mm headphone jack. Most standard earbuds with an in-line mic will work, or you can use a gaming headset designed for PS4 with a 3.5mm connector. The earcups on these gaming headsets ensure your team can hear you speaking clearly during intense gameplay sessions.
Wireless Headsets
If you don’t want to deal with wires, wireless headsets are another great choice. Many models use a USB transmitter that plugs into your PS4 or utilize Bluetooth to connect wirelessly to the console. High-end gaming headsets from brands like Turtle Beach and Astro offer excellent sound and microphone quality with the freedom of no wires.
Attachable Microphones
There are also small microphones that attach directly onto your controller when needed. These clip onto the bottom or back of the controller and plug into the headset jack. While the mic quality isn’t as good as a headset, they can be handy for occasional voice chat needs.
Using a Microphone for Voice Chat on PS4
Playing online multiplayer games on PS4 is so much better when you can actually talk to your teammates. Chatting makes games more fun and helps your team coordinate and gain the edge against opponents. Here’s how to start voice chatting:
Connecting a Wired Headset
Using a wired headset with in-line microphone is pretty straightforward. Plug the 3.5mm connector into the jack on the bottom of your PS4 controller. Go to your PS4 system settings, select “Devices” then “Audio Devices” and choose your headset. Make sure your microphone audio levels are adjusted properly so your voice comes through loud and clear!
Hooking Up a Wireless Headset
For a wireless headset, begin by plugging the USB transmitter into one of the USB ports on your PS4. Power on your headset, put it on, and make sure it is paired to the transmitter. Go to your audio settings to change the input to your headset’s microphone. Test it out in the PlayStation menu to ensure your teammates will be able to hear you when it matters most!
Configuring Voice Chat Settings
Dive into the settings menus for the game you’re playing online to configure its voice chat settings. You can adjust things like voice chat volume, mic monitoring, echo cancellation and more so you have total control. Tweak these so you can hear your teammates clearly and they can hear your voice without echo or feedback.
With your headset configured properly, you’ll be dominating online multiplayer matches in no time! Just hit that microphone button on your controller when you’re ready to start talking trash to your enemies.
Alternatives for Voice Chat Without a Headset
Let’s be honest – gaming headsets can get expensive. If you don’t have one, don’t worry! There are a couple alternative options for voice chat on PS4 without a headset:
Using the PlayStation Camera
The PlayStation Camera accessory can double as a microphone for basic voice chat needs. To enable this, plug your camera into a USB port and go to Settings > Devices > PlayStation Camera > Microphone. Just bear in mind the microphone quality won’t be nearly as good as a decent headset. But in a pinch, it works!
Connect Your Phone as a Microphone
You can also use your smartphone as a microphone by downloading an app that connects your phone to PS4 via USB or wirelessly. Popular options include PS4 Second Screen and PS4 Remote Play. There are also physical adapters that allow you to plug your smartphone directly into the controller. Again, quality is not ideal but it lets you chat without buying a headset.
While these solutions work, your best bet is going wireless or wired headset if you want great audio. But when you just can’t find your headset and need to talk to your squad, phone and camera mic options will suffice!
Microphone Usage for Game Streaming and Recording
Live streaming your PS4 gameplay to Twitch and YouTube has become hugely popular. And creating gaming highlight reels to share online can also be very entertaining. But if you want to narrate your videos or communicate with stream viewers, you’ll need a solid microphone setup.
Quality Streaming Microphones
A good headset mic works, but a USB condenser microphone is ideal for broadcasting and recording. These studio-quality mics deliver crystal clear audio so your voice sounds professional. They are designed to capture only your voice and minimize background noise. Popular options from Blue or Audio-Technica allow for clear communication with your live stream fans!
Audio Settings for Streaming
When recording or streaming PS4 gameplay, dig into the system settings and adjust audio input levels and other mic settings. Make sure your voice audio is balanced well with the game audio without overpowering it. Test levels first and tweak them so viewers can hear your commentary over the game – this takes some trial and error. I recommend using headphones so you can monitor your mic levels while streaming.
Noise Reduction Tips
Set up your microphone properly to reduce ambient noise – angle it towards your mouth and use a mic stand to position it closely. Use noise suppression filters and noise gates in your streaming software settings to cut out any background noise that your mic picks up. And use a pop filter to cut down on plosives and sibilance that can make your voice harsh on stream. With the right balance of game and vocal audio, your Twitch, YouTube, TikTok streams will be top notch!
Proper Care and Maintenance of PS4 Headsets and Mics
Headsets and microphones can be expensive investments, especially high-end models designed for PS4 gameplay and streaming. Follow these tips to keep them performing like new:
Keep Them Clean
Clean your PS4 headset and microphone regularly by using disinfectant wipes on the earpads and mic grill. This prevents the buildup of dirt, dust, and germs from extended gaming sessions. Just be sure to use wipes specifically intended for electronics that won’t damage the materials.
Store Them Properly
Get a headset stand or case to allow proper storage for your headset when not in use. Tossing them in a drawer can lead to cables getting tangled and microphone grills getting bent. Proper storage on a stand or mount helps preserve them.
Handle Issues Quickly
At the first sign of audio issues like crackling, popping or mic malfunctions, inspect connections and cables for any damage. Try different USB ports as power issues can cause glitches. Address problems quickly before permanent damage occurs!
Know When to Replace
Expect to replace your headset every few years with heavy use. If audio issues persist after troubleshooting, if the earpads wear out, or wires start to fray, it’s time to shop for a shiny new headset!
Treat your audio equipment well, and it will elevate your PS4 voice chat and live streaming game for years to come.
Additional PS4 Controller Features for Gamers
The DualShock 4 may not have a built-in mic, but it packs a lot of other cool features that enhance PS4 gameplay!
Integrated Speaker and Headset Jack
The controller features a mono speaker for audio effects and cues right in your hands without the need for headphones. It also has a standard 3.5mm headset jack compatible with a wide range of wired headsets and earbuds for game audio and chat.
Refined Analog Sticks and Buttons
The dual analog sticks and trigger buttons have been perfected for fast, precise control during action-packed PS4 games. And the 4 front buttons, 4 shoulder buttons and 4-way d-pad provide ample control options.
Touchpad for Navigation
The integrated touchpad allows quick navigation and gesture controls for games that take advantage of it. The touchpad also doubles as a large button for simple input.
Motion Sensing and Vibration
The DualShock 4’s motion sensors let you control aiming and other gameplay mechanics by tilting and moving the controller. And dual vibration motors provide immersive feedback for everything from weapon recoil to driving over rough terrain.
Light Bar for Visual Effects
The multi-color light bar is utilized in various games for visual effects, health indicators and more. It also allows the PlayStation Camera accessory to track controller movement and position.
While not as advanced as the PS5 DualSense controller, the PS4 gamepad still delivers plenty of innovative features that made it a huge leap forward last generation!
Conclusion
The standard PS4 controller simply does not contain any built-in microphone. But thankfully, you have options like wired headsets, wireless headsets, clip-on mics and even using your phone or PlayStation Camera in a pinch. With the headset and microphone solutions covered in this guide, you’ll stay connected with teammates during competitive multiplayer matches and interact with your audience during game streaming!
So grab yourself a good quality headset or external mic, hook it up to your PS4 controller, and start dominating those online leaderboards through effective communication. Just be sure to take proper care of your audio equipment – keep it clean, store it safely, and replace it once worn out or damaged. Amp up your PS4 voice chat and streaming game the right way, and you’ll truly master that mic for next-level gameplay!