How to Use a Keyboard and Mouse on PS5

As a lifelong gamer, I’ve always appreciated the precision and control that a keyboard and mouse offer, especially for genres like first-person shooters and strategy games. When I got my PlayStation 5 (PS5), I was thrilled to discover that Sony supports keyboard and mouse inputs, allowing you to enjoy a PC-like gaming experience on a console. If you’re wondering how to use a keyboard and mouse on your PS5, you’re in the right place.

In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from compatibility and setup to game support and troubleshooting. By the end, you’ll be ready to enhance your PS5 gaming experience with the precision of a keyboard and mouse.

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Why Use a Keyboard and Mouse on PS5?

Let’s explore why you might want to use a keyboard and mouse on your PS5. Personally, I find that a keyboard and mouse provide unmatched accuracy and speed, especially in competitive games like Call of Duty: Warzone or Fortnite.

The tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard and the fine-tuned control of a gaming mouse can give you a competitive edge. Plus, if you’re transitioning from PC gaming to the PS5, using familiar peripherals can make the switch seamless.

For you, the benefits might include:

• Precision: A mouse offers more accurate aiming compared to a controller’s analog sticks.

• Speed: Keyboard shortcuts and rapid inputs can improve reaction times.

• Comfort: If you’re used to PC gaming, a keyboard and mouse might feel more natural.

• Versatility: Some games, like The Sims 4 or Final Fantasy XIV, are easier to navigate with a keyboard and mouse.

However, not all PS5 games support these peripherals, and some players argue that using a keyboard and mouse in multiplayer games can create an unfair advantage. I’ll cover game compatibility later, so you can make an informed decision.

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Checking Keyboard and Mouse Compatibility

One of the first questions I had when exploring this setup was, “Will my keyboard and mouse work with the PS5?” The good news is that the PS5 supports most USB and Bluetooth keyboards and mice, but there are a few things you need to check to ensure compatibility.

USB Keyboards and Mice

I’ve tested several USB keyboards and mice with my PS5, and most standard models work out of the box. You’ll want to confirm that your peripherals are plug-and-play, meaning they don’t require additional drivers.

Gaming keyboards like the Razer BlackWidow or Logitech G Pro X, and mice like the SteelSeries Rival 5, are generally compatible. However, some advanced features, like RGB lighting or programmable macros, may not work fully on the PS5.

Bluetooth Keyboards and Mice

If you prefer a wireless setup, Bluetooth keyboards and mice are also supported. I use a Logitech MX Keys and MX Master 3, both of which pair effortlessly with the PS5. Keep in mind that not all Bluetooth devices are compatible, so check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Devices with proprietary wireless protocols (e.g., Logitech’s Lightspeed or Razer’s HyperSpeed) may require a USB receiver, which the PS5 might not support.

How to Verify Compatibility

To avoid frustration, you should:

1. Check the manufacturer’s website for PS5 compatibility.

2. Ensure your keyboard and mouse don’t rely on software that’s exclusive to PC.

3. Test basic functionality (typing, clicking) before diving into gaming.

If you’re unsure, stick with reputable brands like Logitech, Razer, or Corsair, as they often design peripherals with console compatibility in mind.

How to Use a Keyboard and Mouse on PS5

Now that you’ve confirmed your keyboard and mouse are compatible, let’s set them up. I’ll break this down into clear steps so you can follow along easily.

1. Connect Your Keyboard and Mouse

USB Connection

When I first connected my keyboard and mouse, I used the PS5’s USB ports. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Plug your keyboard into one of the USB ports on the PS5. The front USB-A port or the rear USB-A ports work fine.

2. Connect your mouse to another USB port.

3. Wait a moment for the PS5 to recognize the devices. You should see a notification confirming the connection.

Bluetooth Connection

For a wireless setup, I prefer Bluetooth to keep my gaming area clutter-free. Follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories on your PS5.

2. Put your keyboard and mouse into pairing mode (check the manufacturer’s instructions).

3. Select Add Device on the PS5 and choose your keyboard or mouse from the list.

4. Repeat for the second device if both are Bluetooth.

2. Configure Settings

Once connected, you’ll want to tweak the PS5’s settings to optimize your experience. I found that adjusting the mouse sensitivity and keyboard layout made a big difference. Here’s how:

1. Navigate to Settings > Accessories > General.

2. Select Mouse to adjust sensitivity, scroll speed, and pointer size.

3. Under Keyboard, choose your language and layout (e.g., QWERTY or AZERTY).

4. Test the settings by navigating the PS5 menu with your mouse or typing in the search bar.

3. Test in a Game

Not all games support keyboard and mouse inputs, so you’ll need to test your setup in a compatible title. I recommend starting with a game like Call of Duty: Warzone, which offers robust keyboard and mouse support. Launch the game, check the control settings, and ensure your inputs are recognized.

Games That Support Keyboard and Mouse on PS5

One of the biggest challenges I faced was figuring out which PS5 games support keyboard and mouse inputs. Not all titles offer this feature, as it depends on the developer’s design choices. Below, I’ve compiled a list of popular PS5 games that support keyboard and mouse, based on my experience and research.

Popular Compatible Games

• Call of Duty: Warzone: Offers full keyboard and mouse support with customizable key bindings.

• Fortnite: A great option for battle royale fans, with seamless peripheral integration.

• Overwatch 2: Precision aiming makes this a perfect fit for keyboard and mouse.

• Final Fantasy XIV: The MMO experience feels natural with a keyboard for chat and hotkeys.

• The Sims 4: Navigating menus and building is much easier with a mouse.

• Apex Legends: Supports keyboard and mouse for fast-paced gameplay.

How to Check Game Compatibility

To avoid disappointment, you should always check if a game supports keyboard and mouse before purchasing. Here’s how I do it:

1. Visit the game’s official website or PlayStation Store page for input device details.

2. Check community forums like Reddit or the game’s Discord server for user feedback.

3. Test the game yourself—most titles will display a notification if keyboard and mouse inputs are detected.

Limitations

Some games, like God of War Ragnarök or Horizon Forbidden West, are designed exclusively for controllers. In my experience, developers prioritize controllers for cinematic or story-driven games, while competitive or PC-ported titles are more likely to support keyboard and mouse.

Customizing Your Keyboard and Mouse Experience

To get the most out of your setup, you’ll want to customize your keyboard and mouse settings both on the PS5 and within compatible games. I’ve spent hours tweaking my setup to achieve the perfect balance of speed and precision, and I’ll share my tips with you.

In-Game Key Bindings

Most games that support keyboard and mouse allow you to remap keys. For example, in Fortnite, I reassigned building keys to my mouse’s side buttons for faster access. To customize key bindings:

1. Open the game’s settings menu.

2. Navigate to the Controls or Input section.

3. Select Keyboard and Mouse and reassign keys as needed.

Mouse Sensitivity and DPI

Mouse sensitivity is critical for aiming accuracy. I use a gaming mouse with adjustable DPI (dots per inch), which lets me fine-tune responsiveness. If your mouse supports DPI adjustments, experiment with different settings in the game’s menu. For example, I set my DPI to 800 for Call of Duty: Warzone to balance speed and precision.

Keyboard Macros (If Supported)

Some gaming keyboards allow macros, but the PS5 doesn’t support third-party software for programming them. If your keyboard has onboard memory for macros, you can set them up on a PC and then connect the keyboard to the PS5. I’ve used this trick with my Corsair K95 to execute complex commands in Final Fantasy XIV.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Since you’ll be gaming for hours, comfort is key. I recommend:

• Using a wrist rest for your keyboard to reduce strain.

• Positioning your mouse at a comfortable angle to avoid wrist fatigue.

• Investing in a large mouse pad for smooth gliding, especially for low-sensitivity settings.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a compatible setup, you might run into issues. I’ve encountered a few hiccups myself, so here are the most common problems and how to fix them.

1. Keyboard or Mouse Not Detected

If your PS5 doesn’t recognize your peripherals:

• Solution: Try a different USB port or re-pair Bluetooth devices. Ensure the devices are in pairing mode and not connected to another device.

• My Experience: My Bluetooth mouse once failed to connect because it was still paired with my laptop. Disconnecting it from other devices fixed the issue.

2. Lag or Unresponsive Inputs

Lag can ruin your gaming experience. If your inputs feel sluggish:

• Solution: Lower the mouse sensitivity in the PS5 settings or game menu. For wireless devices, check battery levels or switch to a wired connection.

• My Tip: I noticed lag with my Bluetooth keyboard during intense Overwatch 2 matches. Switching to a USB connection resolved it.

3. Game Doesn’t Support Keyboard and Mouse

If a game doesn’t recognize your inputs:

• Solution: Check the game’s settings for input options. If it’s not supported, you’ll need to use a controller or choose a different game.

• My Workaround: For games like Elden Ring that don’t support keyboard and mouse, I keep a DualSense controller handy for seamless switching.

4. Bluetooth Connection Drops

Bluetooth dropouts can be frustrating, especially in multiplayer games.

• Solution: Move closer to the PS5 to reduce interference. Avoid placing the console near other wireless devices like routers.

• My Fix: I repositioned my PS5 away from my Wi-Fi router, which eliminated Bluetooth issues.

Pros and Cons of Using Keyboard and Mouse on PS5

To help you decide if this setup is right for you, I’ve outlined the pros and cons based on my experience.

Pros

• Precision and Speed: Ideal for competitive games requiring quick reflexes.

• Familiarity: Perfect for PC gamers transitioning to PS5.

• Customization: Adjustable settings and key bindings enhance gameplay.

• Versatility: Useful for non-gaming tasks like browsing or typing on the PS5.

Cons

• Limited Game Support: Not all PS5 games are compatible.

• Learning Curve: If you’re used to controllers, adapting to a keyboard and mouse takes time.

• Fairness Concerns: Some multiplayer games may pit you against controller users, raising fairness debates.

• Setup Costs: High-quality gaming peripherals can be expensive.

Advanced Tips for Power Users

If you’re like me and love optimizing your gaming setup, here are some advanced tips to take your keyboard and mouse experience to the next level.

Use a KVM Switch

I use a KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switch to share my keyboard and mouse between my PS5 and PC. This saves desk space and lets me switch seamlessly between devices.

Invest in High-Quality Peripherals

While budget keyboards and mice work, investing in gaming-grade peripherals can enhance performance. I upgraded to a mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX switches for tactile feedback and a mouse with a high-precision sensor for better tracking.

Optimize Your Desk Setup

A clutter-free desk improves focus. I use cable management solutions to keep USB cables tidy and a monitor arm to position my screen at eye level, reducing neck strain during long gaming sessions.

Join Online Communities

Engaging with PS5 gaming communities on platforms like Reddit or Discord has helped me discover new compatible games and troubleshooting tips. You can share your setup and learn from others’ experiences.

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Conclusion

Using a keyboard and mouse on your PS5 can transform your gaming experience, offering precision, speed, and comfort that rival PC gaming. From setting up your peripherals to customizing in-game controls, I’ve shared everything I’ve learned to help you get started.

While not every game supports this setup, the ones that do, like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Warzone—make it worthwhile. By following the steps and tips in this guide, you’ll be ready to dominate the battlefield or build epic structures with ease.

If you run into issues or want to explore more compatible games, don’t hesitate to experiment and connect with the PS5 gaming community. Now, grab your keyboard and mouse, fire up your PS5, and enjoy gaming like never before!