How to Stream PS4 to Laptop Screen Without a TV

For avid gamers who prefer a larger screen than their laptop’s built-in display, streaming your PS4 to your laptop can enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re using a PlayStation’s built-in Remote Play feature or a dedicated Capture Card, this guide will provide you with the steps you need to set up this fantastic setup.

Preface

Remote Play is an easy-to-use method, but it may not provide the best performance. Alternatively, using a capture card can offer better performance with minimal lag. This article explores both methods to help you choose the right one for your needs.

Method 1: Remote Play

For those looking for a quick and easy setup, Remote Play is a great option. This method allows you to stream your PS4 games directly to your laptop as long as both devices are connected to the internet.

Step 1: Download the Remote Play App

Download: Visit the official PlayStation Remote Play website and download the app tailored to your laptop operating system.

Step 2: Set Up Your PS4

Enable Remote Play: On your PS4, navigate to Settings > Remote Play Connection Settings and turn on Remote Play.

Power Save Settings: Also, ensure your PS4 is set to stay connected to the internet when in Rest Mode, by adjusting its power save settings in Settings > Power Save Settings and making sure Set Features Available in Rest Mode is checked.

Step 3: Connect Your Laptop

Open the Remote Play App: Once you open the Remote Play app on your laptop, sign in with your PSN account.

Locate Your PS4: The app will search for your PS4. Make sure your PS4 is on or in Rest Mode.

Step 4: Play

Play on Your Laptop: Once it’s connected, you can use your laptop as a big screen and control the PS4 with your DualShock 4 controller connected via USB or Bluetooth.

Note: Remote Play might experience some latency depending on your internet connection. Además, the USB 3.0 capture dongle can be an alternative option that turns a USB 3.0 port on your laptop into an HDMI input, providing a hardwired connection and reducing input lag.

Method 2: Capture Card

For those who need a more direct connection with minimal lag, using a Capture Card is a better choice. Capture cards can turn HDMI from your PS4 into a video feed, which can be displayed on your laptop.

Step 1: Get a Capture Card

Purchase: Choose a capture card that supports HDMI in. Popular options include Elgato HD60 S, or similar devices that offer instability-free performance.

Step 2: Connect Your PS4 to the Capture Card

Connect HDMI: Connect the HDMI output from your PS4 to the HDMI input on the capture card.

Connect to Laptop: Connect the capture card to your laptop via USB.

Step 3: Install Capture Card Software

Install Software: Install any necessary software that comes with the capture card, such as OBS Studio, or the card’s proprietary software, to set up the video feed.

Step 4: Set Up the Video Feed

Open and Select Source: Open the capture card software and select the capture card as your video source. You should see the PS4’s screen on your laptop.

Step 5: Play

Play Game: Use your DualShock 4 controller to enjoy your gaming session, turning your laptop into a giant gaming screen.

Note: A USB 3.0 capture dongle can also be a viable alternative to a capture card, as it provides a direct and stable connection without the hassle of extra hardware.

Conclusion

Both Remote Play and Capture Cards offer different advantages in terms of latency and convenience. The choice ultimately depends on your preference and the available equipment. Remote Play is easier to set up but might not be as smooth, whereas a capture card is more reliable with minimal lag, but requires more hardware setup.

Whichever method you choose, both can turn your laptop into a high-quality gaming console, providing you with a bigger, better gaming experience on a screen that feels just right! Happy gaming!