The best PS5 accessories in 2024

The best PS5 accessories can revolutionize your setup - whether you're after a small upgrade or a whole new system. Between pro controllers offering new ways to interact with your games and headsets making the most of the PS5's audio punch, there's plenty of gadgets and gizmos to kit out your new generation device.

Now that PS5 deals are starting to trickle onto the shelves, you might find yourself with a hankering to kit yourself out with some new gear. We're kicking things off with controllers and headsets - you'll need to have the basics covered first after all - but then moving into the world of VR, charging, storage and even mobile controller options just below. 

We've had our hands on plenty of PS5 accessories in the years since the console first release. From the official peripherals that have stuck by our consoles since launch day to newer devices adding extra value, we've been cluttering our living rooms with it all. We've narrowed the playing field here, rounding up all the kit that genuinely adds to your experience while still offering good value for money. Not only can these gadgets turbo charge your setup, but they also make great gifts for gamers as well.

The Quick List

The best PS5 controller

The best controller for PS5

Specifications

Remappable buttons: 4
Weight: 298g
Connection: Wireless / wired
Special features: Modular design, fightpad options, trigger stops

Reasons to buy

+
Deep customization options
+
Cheaper than the competition
+
Excellent performance
+
Works with PC, PS5, and PS4

Reasons to avoid

-
No vibration (let alone haptics)
-
A little light
-
Some minor pairing issues

The world of pro controllers is expanding. Now that we're two years into the new console's life cycle, PS5 accessories are starting to pick up some steam, and nowhere is this progress more apparent than in third party gamepad options. Yes, you've got the official DualSense Edge from Sony on the shelves now - and it's true, the Edge is going to offer you the most seamless integration with the PS5 system. However, the Victrix Pro BFG brings far greater value for money and far deeper customization options. It's the best PS5 controller on the market right now. 

Buy it if:

✅You prioritize performance any fancy features: There's no rumble here, but this is a controller built for those prioritizing speed and flexibility first and foremost.

✅You play competitively: With plenty of options to tailor your experience to your personal playstyle, there's a massive suite of customization features to give you the edge here.

✅You want the best back buttons on the market: These are some particularly well implemented back buttons, so if you're a fan of mapping your own macros you'll be well served here.

Don't buy it if:

You like a heavier controller: The Victrix Pro BFG is a lighter gamepad, so if you prefer more grounding in your controls it's worth looking elsewhere.

You need those DualSense features: Sony's adaptive triggers are out of play here, as is rumble feedback. 

You don't care about customization: If you're not going to mix up your control scheme, there's no point in paying for the luxury of doing so. 

Design: In-hand, the Victrix Pro BFG feels a little lighter than previous pro controllers we've had our hands on, but the contours and grips were comfortable over longer sessions. We would have preferred the option to add some weight to each leg, to enhance game feel, though.

Features: Yes, you're sacrificing rumble and haptic feedback, but we were only aware of this absence right at the start of our testing. Once we were swinging across the back buttons, and personalizing the Victrix Pro for every genre under the sun, we quickly forgot about the lack of vibrations. Similarly, battery life only made it to that of the regular DualSense, clocking in at a little under 20 hours, though we noticed charging time was much faster than other comparable gamepads. 

Performance: The flexibility built into this modular design blew us away even the first time we opened up the carry case. Between taller analog sticks for precision aiming and the additional fightpad module in the box, there's something for every playstyle here. Not only that, but you're getting a bounty of these additional buttons (more than the Thrustmaster E-Swap X Pro in fact), and each one works perfectly straight out the gate. There's no fiddling around to meet pins in just the right way, this is truly a plug and play design - barring the small screwdriver adjustments required for fixing certain modules. Add trigger stops, a Tournament Lock mode which keeps fancier features switched off, and additional function buttons inline with Sony's own DualSense Edge features, and you've got yourself an all-round powerhouse. 

Verdict: Considering a customizable controller like this will usually fetch well over $200 / £200 (and the competition regularly does), the Victrix Pro BFG is also remarkably well priced at $179.99 / £179.99. That, and the sheer number of genres it can cater to, make this the best controller for PS5 overall, and the best value for money. 

Read more: Victrix Pro BFG review

The best PS5 controller for most people

Specifications

Remappable buttons: None
Weight: 280g
Connection: Wireless / Wired
Special features: Adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, touch panel

Reasons to buy

+
Subtle haptic feedback
+
Satisfying adaptive trigger
+
Bold new design

Reasons to avoid

-
Can be picky about chargers

The DualSense is the one PS5 accessory that's included with the console, but it's also one most of us will undoubtedly buy more than once. Of course, with these exciting new features likely comes a more expensive PS5 controller. The DualSense costs a little more than the PS4's DualShock, but not prohibitively so.

Buy it if:

✅You want those bespoke features: This is the best way to pick up the adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that many PS5 games incorporate into their experience.

✅You mainly play first-party PS5 exclusives: Making the most of those extra features means you'll need to be playing the games that use them. These are usually first party PS5 exclusives.

✅You don't care about a pro controller: If you don't need extra buttons or customization options, there's no point in paying for these features.

Don't buy it if:

You're worried about stick drift: These aren't hall effect thumbsticks, which does leave them vulnerable to stick drift down the line.

You want extra buttons: If you've been playing with extra back buttons for a while, it might be difficult to go back to a standard controller. 

Design: The DualSense carries the same design language as its console, with the standard controller offering up the classic black and white colorway. And now that more colours - Midnight Black, Cosmic Red, Starlight Blue, Nova pink, and Galactic Purple - have joined the party, there's a bit more choice to work with and to inject some jazz and personalisation into your setup. Physically, the form factor is chunkier than that of the DualSense, but by no means too heavy to remain comfortable.

Features: With the DualSense, games are more immersive when features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers are adopted and incorporated into games' mechanics. Feel the textures of gravel in your fingers as you drive through streets, as well as the tension in the strings of your bow as you draw back an arrow. If you're after more than the standard fare, the DualSense Edge is the official premium, pro controller for a competitive edge and additional control options.

Performance: The DualSense is made for the PS5 so it understandably maintains its connection and offers a lightning fast response time with its console. The quality of these buttons, triggers, and thumbsticks is obvious, and the form factor lends itself well to hours of comfortable play. That battery life is a little on the low side, though. 

Verdict: The DualSense will work straight out the box with any PS5 game you're after, and several also adopt features specifically designed for the haptic feedback and adaptive triggers it provides. This is your go-to if you're after a gamepad, and one of the best PS5 accessories on the market. 

Read more: DualSense controller review

The best PS5 SSD

The best PS5 SSD

Specifications

Capacities: up to 4TB
Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe 1.4
Read/write speed: 7,300 / 6,000 MB/s
Random read/write speed: 800,000 / 1,000,000 IOPS
Write endurance: 1275TB
Warranty: 5 years

Reasons to buy

+
Heatsink model available
+
Excellent speeds
+
Seagate pedigree

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited availability right now

The best PS5 accessories help you get more out of your console, and picking up one of the best PS5 SSDs is the fastest way to immediately add value to your setup. There are a number of names throwing their weight around for a slot at the top here, but the Seagate Firecuda 530 stood out to us most in testing. Not only that, but since we had our hands on the 1TB stick, a full model complete with heatsink has been launched. That means no fiddling with extra kit before inserting into your PS5 system. 

Buy it if:

✅You want quicker load times on PS5: If you're upgrading from a slower SSD you're going to notice super-fast load time with this new stick. 

✅You want something affordable: The FireCuda 530 is far from the top end of the price scale, but still boasts excellent value for money. 

Don't buy it if:

You prioritize space over speed: If you don't mind a slower load and just need more space for games there are cheaper options (or simply bigger drives) available. 

Design: This is a stripped back design - it's going to sit in your console after all, but you'll be able to recognize the FireCuda 530 from its black covering with orange highlights running throughout. Unfortunately the limited edition Star Wars model doesn't fit in the PS5 console. 

Features: You can pick up the FireCuda 530 in 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB configurations and with the option to add your own heatsink or pick one up pre-installed. There's a Phison E18 controller at the helm here, with cache scales dependent on the size of the drive you opt for. 

Performance: The Seagate FireCuda 530 has blistering speeds, a steadily dropping price tag, and its own heatsink that's fully compatible with the PS5 - it really is the full package. The transfer speeds are top drawer and even beat WD's equally excellent and very -popular SN850 by edging over that 7,000MB/s mark - rather than aiming solely for it. 

Crucially it's got the latest in tech inside it as it sports 3D TLC NAND memory and next-gen PCIe 4.0.  It's also worth remembering that Seagate and Sony go way back (relatively) when it comes to drives for PlayStation consoles. Seagate has made and does make a whole host of officially licensed drives so we know the relationship, history, and pedigree are there to rely on. All that means you can have faith in Seagate, and have confidence in its FireCuda 530 SSD for your PS5. 

Verdict: The Seagate FireCuda 530 is our go-to PS5 SSD, and considering you can score up to 4TB of super fast storage it's easily one of the best PS5 accessories on the market right now. 

Read more: Seagate Firecuda 530 review

The best PS5 headset

The best headset for PS5

Specifications

Acoustic design: Closed back, over ear
Drivers: 40mm Neodymium
Weight: 337g
Compatibility: PS5, PS4, PC, Switch, mobile

Reasons to buy

+
Incredible SteelSeries audio quality
+
Awesome DAC / hub with great options
+
Superb build and design
+
Excellent connectivity options
+
Ingenius battery solution

Reasons to avoid

-
One of the most expensive premium headsets going

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless isn't just the best PS5 headset, it's actually the best gaming headset we've found so far. It's a true next-gen set of cups, taking audio quality, connectivity, battery charging, and build all to the next level. We compare a lot of cups side by side, and none have taken us this far into the future before. 

Buy it if:

✅ You want to invest: This is a premium headset, so it's only one for those looking for a longer term investment.

✅ You have a split PC and console setup: The feature set here will make the most sense if you split your time between PC and PS5 (and have them both in the same setup).

✅ You don't want to worry about battery: Hot-swappable batteries like these are perfect for those who forget to charge or hate running out of juice in the middle of a session.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You don't want to tinker with EQ settings: We did have to fiddle with a few EQ settings to get the best audio here, so if you're after perfect sound straight out of the box it's worth checking out something more streamlined. 

❌ You have a smaller budget: That MSRP is fairly prohibitive, so it's not one for those with a smaller budget.

Design: The Nova Pro Wireless follows the same design language as the rest of the Nova line. However, everything from the materials used to their stability and durability in hand absolutely sings at another level here. This is a slick headset, with a larger form factor but still a subtle, premium design. The elongated cups make for a particularly comfortable experience, while the cool steel greys exude luxury on top.

Features: It's in the additional features that the Nova Pro wireless truly shines. The included hub allows not only for EQ customization, but also acts as a permanent charger for the spare battery. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wireless comes with a hot-swappable battery pack easily popped in and out of one of the cups. Keep on locked into the dock, and switch them over when you're running low on juice and you've always got charge ready to go. It's a small design bonus, but one we couldn't believe hadn't been done before. After just a few weeks of testing, the freedom of immediately having access to a fully charged headset certainly stuck with us.

Audio: We've always loved that classic SteelSeries sound quality, and the Arctis Nova Pro takes things even further. While previous PlayStation models, like the SteelSeries Arctis 7P, sometimes lacked in the bass ranges, the Nova Pro doubles down on its brand's well-rounded balance with superb performance across the full scale. Not only was that bassline beefier than in previous iterations, but it was powerful without overpowering the intricacies of the higher ranges. That meant a rich tapestry of sound in everything from booming battlefields to pastoral landscapes. 

Verdict: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the best headset we've tested yet, and it's an absolute blast on PS5. It's a little pricey, but if you're looking to invest in a top of the range headset that will go the distance it's a fantastic buy. 

Read more: SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wireless review

The best official headset for PS5

Specifications

Acoustic design: Closed back, over ear
Drivers: 40mm
Weight: 295g
Compatibility: PS5, PS4, PC, PSVR

Reasons to buy

+
Official companion accessory
+
Tempest 3D audio 
+
Ease to use
+
Very comfortable

Reasons to avoid

-
Built in microphone could be better

The PS5 Pulse 3D headset is the best way to experience the PS5's Tempest Audio, even today - when the competition is heating up. That's not just because you're getting surprisingly high quality audio pumping out of these 40mm driver cups, but because that $99.99 / £99.99 price point is actually very fair considering the tech on offer. 

Buy it if:

✅ You want to make the most of PS5's 3D audio: The Pulse 3D headset is made for PS5 by Sony, which means you're getting the best in the brand's 3D audio. 

✅ You want a lightweight headset: This is a minimal design, which means you're getting a particularly lightweight form factor - perfect for those who want to play for longer sessions.

✅ You don't play with chat too often: The Pulse 3Ds rely on inbuilt mics, which don't provide the clearest response. We'd recommend this one to those who prioritize solo adventures. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You regularly play online with chat: If you're going to be relying on your mic regularly, you'll want to invest in something further up the price scale with a little more attention paid to comms. 

❌ You want a longer battery life: The Pulse 3D headset doesn't have the best battery - so if you're concerned about plugging in it's worth finding something with at least 20 hours.

Design: The design itself eschews the stacked buttons and control knobs of high-end headsets, chasing a more minimalist style. That said, we never felt limited in the volume and mic functions lining the cup. Everything runs with the PS5's curves and color profile here, but despite the lighter form factor and fairly lean build this is still a nicely comfortable headset. 

Features: You'd be hard pressed to find a wireless gaming headset with this ease of use on PS5 for a similar price point. With dual noise-canceling microphones, you can expect crystal clear communication between you and your team in multiplayer games, and the focus on facilitating 3D audio should make games incredibly immersive. Those inbuilt microphone could use a little tuning - it's certainly a way to get your voice heard in an online session, but anyone after crystal clear chat mixes should be looking further up the price scale. 

Audio: That 3D sound is particularly impressive, and holds up even two years after release. Of course, you're not getting the silky smooth tones of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro above, but you're certainly picking up some high quality audio - and you're not paying anywhere near that SteelSeries premium. 

Verdict: If you're after a set of cups to tie your PS5 accessories together, the Pulse 3D headset's black and white aesthetic, seamless integration with the console make it a must see.

Read more: Pulse 3D headset review

The best PS5 hard drive

6. WD Black P50 Game Drive

The best external PS5 hard drive

Specifications

Capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB
Storage type: SSD
Sequential read: 2,000 MB/s
Sequential write: 2,000 MB/s

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent speeds
+
Robust build
+
Purpose-built for gaming

Reasons to avoid

-
Pricier than many other models
-
HDD may suffice for your needs

In a world where we are slowly but surely moving from traditional HDDs to SSDs when it comes to pretty much any kind of storage, it's no surprise that our pick for the best external storage PS5 accessory is a top SSD - the WD Black P50. 

Buy it if:

You don't want to open up your console: If you don't want to crack open your console to upgrade your SSD, this external solution is perfect.

You want a portable drive: Being a plug in option, this is easily portable when you want to take your games on the go. 

Don't buy it if:

You want to run PS5 games from the SSD: You can store PS5 games on an external SSD, but not run them from it. If you want to boost playable space on your console you'll need an internal drive. 

Design: You get all that performance within a unit that has a quality, cool design, and a robust build. It is military metal-styled, rectangular in shape, and features slick molded metal in black along with the traditional WD_Black aesthetics and markings. 

Features: Its USB-C port can be used on your devices as either a USB-A or USB-C connection and in our testing, we got the same speeds through either port so it shouldn't matter which you have free or available, or if you change the device it's used with during its lifetime. When it comes to speeds, what you're told you're getting and what happens is pretty much bang on. Its incredible performance for an external SSD and the stated speed of 'up to 2000MB/s' was on the money in our testing. 

Performance: How does that manifest in day-to-day, real-world performance? Well, it means that all your PS4 games are loaded incredibly quickly, files were retrieved in the snap of a finger, and the performance levels were incredibly consistent. It's a surefire SSD that will rapidly improve your gaming experience by far reducing the time looking at loading screens and increasing the time when you're actually playing. A true winner.

Verdict: The P50 is a high-performing drive that is as close as it gets to having an internal NVMe SSD in a case, plugged into a USB port. Offering speeds and performances often reserved for those drives within the best gaming PCs and on best SSD for gaming lists, it is perfect for those who want the best fro their PS4 game library, and PS5 game library storage. 

The best PS5 charging station

7. DualSense charging station

The best charging station for PS5 controllers

Specifications

Connection: AC / DC adaptor
Power: 5.1 V
Number of controllers: 2
Dimensions: 52 x 62 x 159mm

Reasons to buy

+
Reliable and durable
+
Cheaper than the competition
+
Charges two controllers simultaneously
+
PS5 aesthetic

Reasons to avoid

-
Same charging times as USB cable

No more digging through drawers for a cable that still works - the DualSense charging station can keep two controllers juiced up at once.

Buy it if:

You have two DualSense controllers: The charging dock works best when it's keeping two gamepads juiced up - that way you've always got one ready to go when you lose power.

You have an extra outlet available: Being able to charge away from the PS5's power is excellent for making sure you've always got a juiced up controller, but just make sure you've got a spare outlet.

Don't buy it if:

You only have one controller: If you're just using the one controller we'd recommend looking into Razer's quick charging stand instead. It takes the same 3 hour timespan to charge up, but it's going to look far better doing it. 

Design: This is a sleek, convenient addition to the PS5 accessories family that carries the same futuristic two-toned aesthetic as the PS5. It's not quite as good looking as the Razer Quick Charging Stand, but it's lightweight, small enough to live in the corner of a cupboard or shelf, and it's built with a solid quality as well. 

Features: The official DualSense charging station is designed to charge two PS5 controllers at once without needing to connect the dock to the console itself. A separate wall outlet is required, which may call for some shifting around, but being able to constantly charge without relying on the power of the PS5 is much appreciated. 

Performance: The stand will juice up each controller in around three hours, with the added benefit of holding an additional gamepad as well. That means you've always got one ready to go during those longer sessions. We've had our DualSense Charging Station tucked next to the PS5 since launch day, and it's still going strong so this is indeed a durable piece of kit - something the $30 / £25 price tag might not suggest.

Verdict: This is the cheapest PS5 accessory developed by Sony, but it's arguably one of the most helpful. If you're running two controllers you'll never have to worry about charging up again.  

The best PS5 VR headset

The best VR headset for PS5

Specifications

Resolution: 2,000 x 2,000 per-eye
Display: OLED HDR 120Hz
FOV: 110 degrees
Connection: USB-C
Compatible hardware: PS5

Reasons to buy

+
Premium VR feature set for the money
+
OLED 120Hz panel
+
Excellent controllers
+
Accurate spatial tracking
+
Cinematic mode

Reasons to avoid

-
Headband could feel more premium
-
Isn't compatible with PSVR 1 games

The PSVR 2 launched in 2023 at a particularly hefty price point. It's more than the price of a PS5 console, but it's still one of the best PS5 accessories on the market right now. That's because this should be considered more as a complete new system rather than an add-on. You're spending some serious cash, but picking up a whole new world of games and experiences - and some high-end tech that we rarely see in even the best VR headsets at this price range. 

Buy it if:

✅You don't have a powerful gaming PC: If you're after high quality VR gameplay but you don't have a high-end PC to tether to, this is your best bet.

✅You want the best VR features for cheaper: VR headsets with similar spec sheets to the PSVR 2 often come in far higher up the price scale. You're getting a look at some of the latest developments here for far less than usual. 

You want more out of your PS5: Whether it's a new way to play your existing games, or access to a new roster of experiences you're after, grabbing a PS5 and PSVR 2 means you'll never miss a Sony release.

Don't buy it if:

You won't use it: VR is expensive, and if you're looking to dip your toe in the technology this isn't the way to do so - the investment is just too hefty. 

You want access to loads of games right away: The PSVR 2 library is still under construction - while we've seen plenty of big releases this year, we're still waiting to consider those shelves fully stocked. 

Design: The PSVR 2 takes the console's smooth contours and curves into its own design, with a dome-shaped main panel and circular controller grips. It's a considerable device, with excellent build quality - but it's deceivingly small. Lightweight, compact, and easily stowable (we've had those PSVR wires hanging around for too long now), it's a slick design from start to finish. 

Features: The PlayStation VR 2 packs a serious punch. With eye-tracking enabled foveated rendering (the ability to bring the objects you're looking at into focus), a crisp OLED display running at 120Hz, and haptic feedback built into the headband, the kit on offer here pushes VR games well beyond the everyday. You'd usually be looking at spending over $1,000 / £1,000 for that kind of gear - here everything sits at a neat $549. 

Performance: The presence we felt stepping into Horizon Call of the Mountain and other PSVR 2 games was unmatched, with precise controller tracking, a stunning display, and the twitch-responsive capacitive sensors all working together to produce a spectacular experience. Room tracking is also excellent, allowing you to map your play area while giving you clear signals should you start to wander outside of this designated zone. It's consistent, easy to set up, and seamless - it just works. 

Strangely enough, though, it was Cinematic mode that had us gawping the most. Being able to play regular PS5 games on a gorgeous 120Hz OLED panel without everyday distractions surrounding us was a magnificent feeling. Even if the PSVR 2 library takes a while to bulk up, there's plenty of value in this device straight out of the box. 

Verdict: There's an incredible amount of potential in the PSVR 2, and with more games hitting its digital shelves that potential is now starting to be fully tapped. It's easily one of the best VR experiences on the market right now, but it does come with the price tag to match. 

Read more: PSVR 2 review

The best PS5 mobile controller

The best mobile controller for PS5

Specifications

Connection: Direct to phone
Battery: Powered by phone
Compatibility: iPhone
Weight: 138g

Reasons to buy

+
Incredibly easy to use and set up
+
High quality buttons and thumbsticks
+
Best in class software features

Reasons to avoid

-
No Android options

The Backbone One is already well established in the field of the best mobile controllers for iPhone with its black, Xbox Game Pass-focused version that was released at the end of 2020. However, now the fun comes to Remote Play fans on PlayStation with this officially licensed, asymmetrical controller.

Buy it if:

✅ Your WiFi can handle remote play: Make sure your internet can handle PlayStation Remote Play requirements consistently for the best streaming experience with BackBone One. 

✅ You play other mobile games: Those who run other mobile games or Xbox Game Pass titles through their phone are going to get the best value for money here. 

✅ You don't want to wait for PS Portal: With PlayStation Portal stock still difficult to come by, this is perfect for anyone looking to boost their remote play experience without waiting around for $200 handhelds. 

Don't buy it if:

You want full DualSense features in remote play: If you still want the full DualSense experience (adaptive triggers and rumble included), you'd be better off picking up the big-screen PlayStation Portal handheld. 

Design: You'll notice that it has the same design language as the PS5 and the official PS5 accessories so it'll slot neatly into part of your arsenal. And while it has the same button layout as the original Backbone One, the stylings and finishes are all PlayStation (aside from the asymmetrical layout, of course). The snap-to-fit form factor keeps your phone nicely supported while still cushioning with rubber grips to prevent scuffs along the edge of the controller itself. 

Features: Elsewhere you've got a low latency connection, pass-through charging, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for your headset, and will house almost any iPhone (or Android device). That means everything is covered here - you can listen to your games, charge your device, and have access to all the usual controls during remote play. On top of that core PlayStation Remote Play experience, you'll also have access to the BackBone One app - where this controller really shines. This essentially turns your phone into a full console experience, lining up all your games in one place for easy access and offering up a host of new features as well. 

Performance: A simple connection means the BackBone One just works - and that's not something we can say for many mobile controllers. There's no finnicky Bluetooth process or fiddly flip up grips to contend with here - and that physical connection means super low latencies to every button press and thumbstick push. These controls are clicky and satisfyingly, though we did notice that the D-Pad is a little stiffer than we would have liked. 

Verdict: If you're looking for one mobile iPhone controller to rule them all for your PlayStation remote-playing needs, then this is it.

Read more: Backbone One review

The best PS5 remote player

The best PS5 remote player

Specifications

Display: 8-inch LCD
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh rate: 60Hz
Connectivity: USB-C (charging), WiFi 5
Audio: 3.5mm audio, PS Link, built-in speakers

Reasons to buy

+
Great integrated DualSense controls
+
Reliable PS5 Remote Play performance
+
Decent screen quality

Reasons to avoid

-
Fully relies on PS5
-
No Bluetooth connection
-
Difficult to get hold of

The PlayStation Portal is certainly divisive, but if you're a die-hard remote player there's nothing like it - if you can find stock that is. The handheld is designed to work only with the PS5 console, but offers a dedicated 8-inch display and complete DualSense controls for all your favorite games so  you can play away from the big-screen. 

Buy it if:

You already use remote play: You'll need to be a hardcore Remote Play fan to truly get your money's worth here. 

You have a wired gaming headset: The lack of Bluetooth and inability to connect a 2.4GHz wireless headset means this is one for those who already have a wired headset to hand. 

Don't buy it if:

You're just dabbling in remote play: The higher price point means this isn't one for those who rarely use the PS5's remote play feature. If you're just dabbling there are far cheaper options out there. 

Wireless audio is a must: Sony's frustrating lack of wireless connectivity outside its own products means your expensive wireless headset will be wasted here. 

Design: The PlayStation Portal is essentially a DualSense cut in half with a screen thrown in the center. That means you're keeping the ergonomic prowess of the PS5 controller even if it did take some getting used to in our testing. Of course, you'll find the same black and white aesthetic running throughout the device, with a plethora of additional volume and PlayStation buttons around the edges. 

Features: The PlayStation Portal is designed to compliment your PS5 gameplay, rather than adding new functionality to the system itself. That means it will only work with a PS5 via network range and only for games currently on your system (no streaming). That could be a little difficult to swallow considering the $200 price point, but what the Portal does it does particularly well. 

The kicker here is that there's no Bluetooth for a wireless gaming headset (and that USB-C port doesn't allow for a 2.4GHz dongle). That means you'll be relying on either a wired device for audio or Sony's own wireless gadgets. In short, the PlayStation Portal doesn't impress in its feature list, but as long as you're after a dedicated remote player that shouldn't matter too much. 

Performance: The Portal does its job particularly well. As long as your WiFi is strong enough you'll be treated to super slick PS5 gameplay in the palm of your hand. While that 1080p / 60Hz display might not sound like much on paper it's surprisingly immersive, offering fantastic sharpness and clarity even if the contrast isn't up to OLED levels. 

Verdict: If you're a hardcore Remote Player, the PS Portal is well worth a look. It's an upgrade to your experience, offering full DualSense functionality and a dedicated 8-inch display. However, the lack of additional features and inability to stream gameplay keeps it out of the hands of anything less than die-hard fans. 

Read more: PlayStation Portal review

PS5 accessories: FAQ

DualSense Edge review image showing the controller standing up against a pink PS5

(Image credit: Future / Duncan Robertson)

What accessories are necessary for PS5?

No accessory is strictly necessary for PS5 - aside from a TV or monitor to play on. However, the most useful PS5 accessories are extra controllers and additional SSD sticks. These are the only gadgets that could stop your play, should you - for example - run out of battery or storage space. Other options like headsets are nice to have, but if you're prioritising your day one shopping list we'd recommend getting sorted for extra gamepads and storage first. 

Which brands make PS5 accessories?

A number of brands have now released their own third party PS5 accessories. Everyone from Logitech to Razer and SteelSeries to Corsair are getting involved these days. However, more niche brands like Hori, Hexa, Victrix, and Backbone are also well worth a look. 

Is a cooling fan necessary for PS5?

You'll notice a lack of cooling fans on our guide to the best PS5 accessories. That's for the simple reason that we're yet to come across one that does its job without causing concern for the system. No, a cooling fan isn't necessary to run a PS5 and anyone trying to tell you otherwise is selling one. In fact, the majority of cheap cooling stands actually block valuable air intake space, leading to the console becoming hotter than it can withstand. If you're in the market for a cooling solution, we'd heavily recommend cleaning out your system before taking the risk with a stand. 

Here's the rundown of all the best PS5 games, and the upcoming PS5 games we know about so you can plan your library and playing schedule.

Tabitha Baker
Managing Editor - Hardware

Managing Editor of Hardware at GamesRadar+, I originally landed in hardware at our sister site TechRadar before moving over to GamesRadar. In between, I've written for Tom’s Guide, Wireframe, The Indie Game Website and That Video Game Blog, covering everything from the PS5 launch to the Apple Pencil. Now, i'm focused on Nintendo Switch, gaming laptops (and the keyboards and mice that come with them), and tracking everything that suggests VR is about to take over our lives.

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