The DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment is Sony's take on a Pro PS4 controller. But, instead of asking gamers to shell out for another, more expensive gamepad, the company has created an accessory that simply plugs into your existing DualShock 4 controller, adding two extra assignable buttons.
These buttons allow for more control over customization, allowing you to program each button respectively for a variety of gamepad inputs. This level of customization may not be necessary for everyone, and now we've seen what Sony can do with a real Pro controller thanks to the upcoming DualSense Edge for PS5. Still, it's still a welcome option for those who enjoy more competitive gameplay.
And besides, it is not as expensive as buying a special professional controller. It's not exactly cheap, but it's definitely a more affordable option than Microsoft's Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controllers. So is the DualShock 4's back button attachment worth your hard-earned money? Let's discuss the pros and cons of Sony PS4 controller update.
- Sony DualShock 4 (PS4) Back Button Attachment at Amazon for $29.80 (opens in a new tab)
DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment: Getting Straight To The Point
- What is it? An attachment for the DualShock 4 that adds two additional mappable buttons
- When did it come out? January 9, 2020
- What are the prices for the premium plan? €30 / €26 / AU$50
Price and release date
DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment: Price and Release Date
The DualShock 4's Back Button Attachment first came out two years ago, releasing on January 9, 2022. It's also not terribly expensive given that it adds two new buttons, and this attachment is priced at $30/€26/ AU€50.
DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment Design
(*two*)
(Image credit: LaComparacion)The DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment comes in a small box with just the device and a thick instruction booklet. The attachment does not require any software to run, just plug it into the audio jack/external port at the bottom of your controller and you're good to go.
The attachment doesn't look like much at first glance, it's basically two paddles attached to a circular black LED display with an audio jack and an external jack to plug into the DualShock 4. There's also a 3,5 port audio jack. mm at the bottom of the accessory so you can always plug in your own gaming headset.
The accessory is approximately three inches wide and less than two inches tall, making it quite dainty individually. When plugged into the bottom of the controller, the paddles should sit snug and (quite snugly) within the curves of the back of the controller's legs, with the LED display positioned in the middle.
Holding a controller with the attachment takes some getting used to. It can feel bulky and almost strange attached to the DualShock's lightweight frame, especially for those who admire the PS4 controller for its sleek design. As someone with small hands, it was awkward to hold and we often found ourselves accidentally pressing buttons when just trying to rest our fingers on the back of the controller.
The rear buttons are ergonomic though, so they really should be more comfortable. After testing the controller with various staff members at TechRadar's office, we found that, for those with larger hands, it was actually more comfortable. It really depends on whether you prefer sleekness or weight, but it's also an expected compromise if you're adding extra buttons to a controller.
The addition is likely to be preferential for those who like the bulky weight of the Xbox One Controller or Xbox Wireless Controller.
Performance
DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment Performance
The attached file requires the controller to be connected to a PS4 for it to work, or at least to load; otherwise it will go out rather quickly.
To turn on the screen (and therefore the device), you must press and hold the screen until the PlayStation buttons symbol appears. The display will show a button symbol on the left, a 'P1', 'P2' or 'P3' circled in the middle, then another button symbol on the right.
The attached file can save up to three custom profiles at a time, and the "P1" etc. matches the profile you are currently using. To switch between profiles, simply double click on the LED display. You can then program the buttons for that profile by holding down the screen, on the applicable profile, until the 'P' flashes.
There are sixteen possible button input options for each rear button and once the 'P' flashes, you can click the respective button to cycle through the options. Once you've chosen the ones you want, just click the LED screen again to lock it. It's surprisingly quick and easy to do, allowing you to easily change settings in-game with minimal interruption.
You can't map buttons to every button on the DualShock 4, but there are still enough that that's not too much of an issue. Programming is done right out of the box, too, and it works like a charm with the rear buttons giving a satisfying click when pressed.
DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment Verdict
The PS4 Back Button Attachment is a fantastic accessory for those who want more control over customizing their PS4 controller.
It's fast and easy to use, with no need to load additional software. And best of all, it allows you to affordably upgrade your current DualShock 4 controller, saving you the hassle of buying an expensive Pro gamepad.
However, depending on how heavy you want your controller to feel, it can either be super comfortable or a bit clunky. But, since it adds two more assignable buttons, it's actually pretty lightweight compared to other controllers in its lineup.
Sony DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment: Price Comparison