Dualshock 4 back button attachment
"The DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment is the perfect way to better adapt the controller."
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Robust buttons
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Easy programming of different inputs
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Multiple profile slots
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inexpensive
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Ergonomic design
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A bit bulky
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A bit difficult to attach
Sony's famous dualshock controls have remained relatively unchanged over the years. It is a testament to the original design. However, some require more from a controller, including additional buttons. This has driven serious gamers to third-party controllers that offer more options.
Now there is finally an official option. With the DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment from Sony you can crush two additional buttons. Even better? You don't have to get used to a completely new controller to use it, as it connects to your existing DualShock 4.
Ready, done, play
Setting up the Back Button Attachment on the DualShock 4 controller only takes a few seconds. Well, if you don't have to mess around with it like me. A standard headphone plug and a charging connector are located on a swiveling part on the inside and snap into place on the underside of the DualShock 4. In my experience, it is difficult to attach this pivoting part, but it fits snugly along the back of the controller when positioned correctly.
To activate the new buttons, press and hold the large middle button for one second. The attachment screen provides options. You can scroll through the available functions for the two buttons and then click the middle button again to confirm your decision.
Setting up the Back Button Attachment on the DualShock 4 controller only takes a few seconds.
This process is even faster than inserting the back button attachment, and the middle screen turns off almost immediately to prevent it from consuming too much power. Given the miserable battery life of the DualShock 4, that's a good thing.
The back button attachment does not rely on an external app tied to your phone, console, or other device. The buttons may be easier to program when an app is available, but this approach has its own advantage. You can easily use the DualShock 4 with the attachment on another console. There is no additional setup.
The buttons feel great and have been designed to be clear and ergonomic. You press the two buttons on the curved edges, which are exactly where your fingers naturally want to rest on the back of the standard DualShock 4. They are easy to click, although the curved area is the only way to activate them. If your fingers slip, you need to mix them back in place.
Second nature
With the option to reassign the buttons, games feel more natural. I tested the back button attachment extensively with Remnant: From the Ashes, a soul-like game with a focus on third-party shooting. By assigning the two new buttons to the square and X buttons on the DualShock 4, I was able to reload and dodge attacks without losing control of the camera, making intense battles against multiple opponents easier to deal with.
With the option to reassign the face buttons, games feel more natural.
The DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment contains a passage for 3.5 mm headsets. If you need to remove the attachment, you can remove it in a few moments and the memory will not be reset.
If there are rumors about the controller design of the PlayStation 5, back buttons might be available by default. In this case, it is possible that the Back Button Attachment makes DualShock 4 controllers compatible. Even if it isn't, the $ 30 price is an excellent addition to the DualShock 4.
A (big) little problem
Since the back button attachment is an accessory, it is bulkier than the paddles built into something like the Xbox Elite Controller or Scuf Vantage. The extra size can tire your hands after a few hours.
The trouble I was having prevented me from taking it off when this happened, but I still did it occasionally to give my hands a break.
The majority have advantages. The back button attachment feels very robust, as I am used to from PlayStation products. Although it feels big on the controller, it's still small enough to easily stow away when traveling or to attach to your controller when you put it away.
Our opinion
The DualShock 4 Back Button Attachment turns your controller into a customizable gamepad for just $ 30. It is an excellent choice for competitive multiplayer fans. If you can experiment with different configurations in no time, you will find your ideal setup in a matter of seconds.
Is there a better alternative?
No, not near that price. Third-party controls designed for using back buttons offer a better experience. However, you spend over $ 100 on most of these controllers.
How long it will take?
It runs on the DualShock 4's battery so you don't have to charge it separately, and it feels sturdy enough to last for years.
Should you buy it
Yes, especially if you are interested in action or competitive multiplayer games.
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