If you are trying to save space or make the most of your existing tech setup, you might be wondering whether your laptop screen can be used to play games from your PlayStation 4. While a TV or external monitor is the typical go-to display for consoles, many people hope to use their laptop screen as an alternative.
The short answer is yes, it is possible to use your laptop as a monitor for your PS4, but it is not as straightforward as simply plugging in an HDMI cable. This article explains the different ways you can connect your PS4 to a laptop screen, the hardware and software required, and what kind of performance or limitations to expect depending on your chosen method.
Understanding Laptop HDMI Ports
One of the most common misconceptions is that you can connect your PS4 directly to a laptop using a standard HDMI cable. This will not work in most cases. The reason is that HDMI ports on laptops are usually output only. They are designed to send the laptop’s display to an external monitor or projector, not to receive a signal from another device.
The PS4 also has an HDMI output. Connecting two output ports together does not allow for communication between devices. Therefore, to use a laptop screen as a PS4 display, you will need to find another method that allows your laptop to receive the video signal.
Using a Capture Card
One hardware-based solution is to use a video capture card. This is a device that connects to your laptop via USB and has an HDMI input port where you can plug in your PS4. The capture card essentially acts as a middleman, capturing the PS4’s video output and displaying it on your laptop screen through a dedicated app.
To use this setup, you will need a capture card such as the Elgato HD60S, a USB 3.0 port on your laptop, and software that supports live preview. Most popular capture cards come with their own software that allows you to view the PS4 output in real-time with minimal delay.
This method is effective, but it does come with a few downsides. There may be slight input lag which can be a problem for fast-paced or competitive games. Also, capture cards are not cheap, and budget options may produce low-quality video or suffer from reliability issues.
Using Remote Play
A more affordable and accessible method is to use Sony’s official Remote Play software. Remote Play allows you to stream your PS4’s output over your home Wi-Fi network to your laptop. All you need is a free app installed on your laptop, a stable internet connection, and your PS4 set up correctly.
To get started, install the PS Remote Play app on your Windows or macOS laptop. Make sure your PS4 is updated to the latest firmware and is set as your primary console. You will also need to enable Remote Play in the PS4’s settings. Once both devices are connected to the same network, launch the app on your laptop, sign in to your PlayStation Network account, and follow the prompts to connect to your console.
You can use a DualShock 4 controller connected via USB or Bluetooth. Once paired, you can begin playing games with your laptop acting as the screen. The quality of the connection will depend heavily on the speed and stability of your home Wi-Fi network. For best results, both the laptop and PS4 should be connected via Ethernet or be as close as possible to the wireless router.
Performance and Limitations
Using Remote Play can be an excellent solution for casual gaming, but it does come with limitations. The maximum resolution is typically 720p or 1080p depending on your network speed and system performance. There may also be occasional lag or stuttering if your network is not strong enough. This method is not ideal for competitive gaming where timing is critical, but it works well for single-player experiences or slower-paced games.
Capture cards offer more consistent performance and higher resolutions, but they can introduce a small delay between your controller input and what appears on screen. For most people, the difference is minor, but if you are a competitive gamer, you may find it noticeable.
Can You Use an HDMI Input Laptop
There are a few laptops that come with HDMI input ports, but they are extremely rare. These are usually high-end workstation models or gaming laptops designed to double as a secondary display. If you happen to own one of these, you may be able to connect your PS4 directly with an HDMI cable, but you should check your laptop’s manual or manufacturer’s specifications to confirm whether the HDMI port supports input.
Is It Worth It
If you already own a laptop and want to avoid buying a separate monitor or using a shared television, then using Remote Play is an easy way to get started. It does not require any additional hardware and works well in most home setups. However, if you are serious about gaming and want better visual quality and lower latency, investing in a dedicated capture card or monitor may be a better long-term solution.
Conclusion
You can use your laptop as a monitor for your PS4, but it requires more than just plugging in an HDMI cable. The most practical method for most users is Sony’s Remote Play app which streams your console’s output to your laptop over Wi-Fi. Alternatively, a capture card offers higher quality and more reliability at the cost of additional hardware. While it may not match the performance of a proper TV or gaming monitor, using your laptop screen for PS4 gaming is entirely possible with the right setup.