Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsTo set up remote play, enable remote access on the console or PC that runs the game, install that platform’s official app on your receiving device, sign in, connect to the host, and pair a compatible controller if needed. The exact app and settings depend on whether your games run on PlayStation, Xbox, or a PC with Steam. Remote play streams from that host; it does not install or run the game locally on your phone or handheld.
Before you start
Check these basics before opening the streaming app:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- A host: The console or computer must be online, signed in, and configured to allow remote connections.
- A receiving device: Use a phone, tablet, or handheld supported by the platform’s current device and operating-system requirements.
- A network: A reliable connection is important at both the host and receiving ends. Remote play streams gameplay, so weak or unstable connectivity can cause interruptions.
- Controls: A compatible controller is often more comfortable than touch controls. Check compatibility for your exact device before buying one.
Choose the setup for the platform where the game runs. PS Remote Play connects to a PS5 or PS4, Steam Link streams from a PC running Steam, and Xbox Remote Play streams games installed on a supported Xbox console.
Set up PlayStation Remote Play on a phone or tablet
Sony supports PS Remote Play on Android smartphones and tablets, iPhone, and iPad. The console should have current system software, and you need a PlayStation account. Sign in to the mobile app with the same account used on the console. Sony’s mobile Remote Play instructions include the current details.
#1 Best Overall
- Haptic feedback - Feel physically responsive feedback to your in-game actions with dual actuators which replace traditional rumble motors. In your hands, these dynamic vibrations can simulate the feeling of everything from environments to the recoil of different weapons. .Operating temperature : 41 °F to 95 °F (5 °C to 35 °C)
- Adaptive triggers - Experience varying levels of force and tension as you interact with your in-game gear and environments. From pulling back an increasingly tight bowstring to hitting the brakes on a speeding car, feel physically connected to your on-screen actions.
- Built-in microphone and headset jack - Chat with friends online using the built-in microphone or by connecting a headset to the 3.5mm jack. Easily switch voice capture on and off at a moment’s notice with the dedicated mute button. Internet and account for PlayStation Network required.
- DualSense Controller PS5 and PC compatible. Not compatible with PS4.
- PS Remote Play requires Remote Play App connected to Wi-Fi, PS4 or PS5 console with the latest system software and compatible game. A PS4 or PS5 console with a wired connection via a LAN cable is recommended. Version 4.0 of the Remote Play App on iOS and iPadOS or version 4.1 on macOS is required for games to be playable with the controller over Bluetooth.
- On the PS5 or PS4, enable Remote Play in the console settings.
- If you want to wake the console from rest mode, enable the relevant stay-connected and network-wake options in the console’s power-saving settings.
- Install PS Remote Play from Google Play or the App Store.
- Open the app and sign in with the same PlayStation account used on the console.
- Select your PS5 or PS4 in the app and connect. The console must be on or configured for the rest-mode connection and wake features.
- Pair a controller supported by your phone or tablet, or use on-screen controls where available.
Sony lists DualSense, DualSense Edge, and DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controllers as options for supported mobile devices. Compatibility depends on the receiving device, so verify it before purchasing or troubleshooting a controller.
Check the connection and data use
Sony’s current support guidance recommends at least 5 Mbps upload and download, and at least 15 Mbps in both directions for best performance. These are recommendations, not guarantees of smooth play. Remote Play can use substantially more data than typical video-streaming services, and mobile-data availability depends on your carrier and network conditions. Check your data plan before playing away from Wi-Fi.
Rank #2
- Bring gaming worlds to life - Feel your in-game actions and environment simulated through haptic feedback*. Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers*
- Find your voice, share your passion - Chat online through the built-in microphone. Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack. Record and broadcast your epic gaming moments with the create button
- A gaming icon in your hands - Enjoy a comfortable, evolved design with an iconic layout and enhanced sticks. Hear higher-fidelity** sound effects through the built-in speaker in supported games
- Multi-device connectivity - Connect using a USB Type-C cable or Bluetooth technology and easily play on more devices including Windows PC and Mac computers.
- Elevate PC gaming with advanced features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in a range of blockbuster PC titles.
Set up Steam Link on a phone or tablet
Steam Link streams games from a computer running Steam to a receiving device. Install Steam Link on the phone or tablet, then connect it to the computer that hosts the game. Valve describes the supported streaming options on its Steam Remote Play page.
- On the host computer, install or update Steam, sign in, and make sure the game launches normally.
- Install Steam Link on your phone or tablet.
- Open Steam Link and follow its connection flow to select the computer running Steam.
- Pair a supported controller, then choose a game from your Steam library and launch it.
For the best streaming experience, Valve recommends a wired network. Where possible, connect the host computer to the router by Ethernet; the receiving device still needs a reliable connection. A game’s Steam store page can indicate whether it supports Remote Play Together or is identified as suitable for streaming to devices through Steam Link. Those labels describe different features, so check the specific game rather than assuming every title has the same support.
Rank #3
- Ultra Customizable Controls
- Mappable Back Buttons
- DualSense Wireless Controller Features Built In
- Replaceable Stick Modules and Caps
For current setup and troubleshooting details, see Steam Support’s Remote Play guidance.
Set up Xbox Remote Play
Xbox Remote Play can stream games installed on an Xbox console to supported phones, tablets, PCs, TVs, and VR devices. Xbox’s published requirements include a console with remote features enabled, a compatible receiving device, a supported Bluetooth controller, and a Microsoft account with an Xbox profile. Start with the current Xbox Remote Play page and follow the setup instructions available for your app and region. The requirements page does not establish one complete menu-by-menu procedure for every setup, so use the current in-app or official support directions rather than relying on a guessed settings path.
Rank #4
- Bring gaming worlds to life - Feel your in-game actions and environment simulated through haptic feedback*. Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers*.
- Find your voice, share your passion - Chat online with the built-in microphone. Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack. Record and broadcast your epic gaming moments with the create button.
- A gaming icon in your hands - Enjoy a comfortable, evolved design with an iconic layout and enhanced sticks. Hear higher-fidelity** sound effects through the built-in speaker in supported games.
Can a handheld device use remote play?
Sometimes, but “handheld” covers very different devices: phones with controller attachments, dedicated streaming devices, and handheld PCs. Support for one does not prove support for another. Check the platform’s current supported-device and operating-system requirements for your exact model before setting it up.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Also distinguish streaming from local play. With remote play, a console or PC runs the game and sends its video and audio to the handheld. A handheld PC may also be able to run some games locally, but that is a separate capability and depends on the device and game.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Feel physically responsive feedback to your in-game actions through haptic feedback
- Experience varying levels of force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers
- Chat online through the built-in microphone and connect a headset directly through the 3.5mm jack
- Switch voice capture on and off using the dedicated mute button
- Play on more devices using the USB Type-C cable or Bluetooth to connect easily to Windows PC and Mac computers, Android and iOS mobile phones as well as your PlayStation 5
Fix common remote-play problems
- The app cannot find or connect to the host: Confirm the console or PC is online, signed in to the right account, and running current system software or Steam. Check that remote features are enabled on the host.
- A PlayStation console will not wake from rest mode: Confirm that the stay-connected and network-wake options are enabled in the console’s power-saving settings.
- The picture stutters or play feels interrupted: Check the network at both ends. For Steam, Valve recommends wired networking for the best streaming experience; improving the host computer’s connection is a practical first step.
- The controller will not pair or work: Verify support for the precise phone, tablet, or handheld, then pair a controller supported by both the platform and receiving device.
- Remote play does not work on mobile data: Carrier support and network conditions can affect availability. Check the carrier’s restrictions and your data allowance.
- You are using a handheld: Confirm the exact model and operating system against the platform’s current compatibility information instead of assuming that support for phones or tablets extends to it.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
