What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
You can play PS5 games away from your TV with Sony’s free PS Remote Play app on a compatible phone, tablet, PC, or Mac. Add a compatible mobile controller if you want handheld-style controls. The key difference: Remote Play streams from your console, while PlayStation Portal’s Cloud Streaming can stream select games without connecting to your PS5, subject to subscription, region, and game restrictions.
Which PlayStation Portal alternative fits your setup?
| Option | PS5 connection required? | Extra hardware | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phone or tablet with PS Remote Play | Yes; Remote Play streams from a PS4 or PS5 | None if you use touch controls; a compatible controller is optional | Trying remote play on a device you already own |
| Phone plus Backbone One – PlayStation Edition | Yes; Remote Play streams from a PS4 or PS5 | Compatible Backbone controller | Physical controls in a phone-based handheld setup |
| PC or Mac with PS Remote Play | Yes; Remote Play streams from a PS4 or PS5 | Computer and compatible controller | Playing on a computer screen rather than a handheld |
| PlayStation Portal Cloud Streaming | No home-console connection for eligible streamed games | PlayStation Portal and PlayStation Plus Premium | Playing select supported games when the PS5 is off or in use |
| Steam Deck or another Linux handheld | Depends on the third-party method | Linux handheld; software support is not established by Sony’s consulted compatibility information | Readers willing to investigate unofficial options |
For PS Remote Play, Sony lists a minimum connection speed of 5 Mbps and recommends 15 Mbps for a better experience. Those are Sony’s product requirements, not a guarantee of particular image quality or responsiveness; performance varies with the network and, on mobile data, the carrier. Sony’s Remote Play guidance also notes that mobile data use can count against your plan.
Use a phone or tablet with PS Remote Play
If you already own a compatible phone or tablet, this is the simplest alternative to buying a dedicated handheld. Install Sony’s PS Remote Play app, connect it to your PS4 or PS5, then play over Wi-Fi or mobile data. Remote Play streams the game running on your console; it does not provide a separate cloud library.
What you need
- A compatible phone or tablet with Sony’s PS Remote Play app.
- A PS4 or PS5 console available for Remote Play. Sony says a console is required to stream games; Portal specifically requires a PS5.
- A network that meets Sony’s speed guidance. For Remote Play, Sony specifies at least 5 Mbps and recommends 15 Mbps for a better experience.
Touch controls are an option, but a controller may be more comfortable for games that depend on physical buttons and sticks. Check compatibility for the exact phone, controller, and app combination before buying. Sony’s Remote Play support page lists supported device categories and connection information.
#1 Best Overall
- 【All-in-One Handheld】 The ultimate portable console in your hands. Enjoy retro games, remote play, cloud gaming, and Android titles on a lightweight handheld with responsive controls and a stunning 7” display. More than just a game console — it's a powerful all-in-one entertainment device.
- 【Cloud Gaming + Remote Play】 Cloud Gaming – Instantly play AAA titles over Wi-Fi with subscriptions to Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta), GeForce NOW, Amazon Luna, PlayStation Plus Premium, and Boosteroid. Remote Play – Stream games locally from your own devices using Moonlight, PlayStation Remote Play, Steam Link or PXPlay.【Need buyer's subscriptions to Xbox or PlayStation.】
- 【Emulator Retro Games + Android Games】 Emulation – Enjoy retro classics with enhanced compatibility and smoother performance on PS2, GameCube, and other popular systems. Android Games – Run most local games with ease, offering more ways to play on a larger screen with console-style controls."
- 【Capacitor Digital Joystick + Switchable Modes】 abxylute One Pro is the first handheld to feature cutting-edge digital joysticks—taller, larger, and more advanced, with an extended input range. Switch between Circle Mode for ultra-precise 0.2% tracking, or Square Mode for broader input—tailored to different play styles."
- 【4K Video Output + Dual Speakers】 Connect to an external display or AR glasses for up to 4K gaming with full controller support, or enjoy immersive gameplay on the built-in 1080P 7” display—perfect for couch play or gaming on the go. Upgraded audio drivers deliver deeper, clearer vocals, and rich, immersive sound in every in-game moment."
Add a Backbone controller for phone-based handheld controls
The Backbone One – PlayStation Edition is a documented option for playing on a phone with physical controls. It attaches to a compatible phone, turning the phone into a more handheld-like setup while PS Remote Play streams from your console.
Compatibility depends on the phone and its connector. Backbone’s controller compatibility FAQ distinguishes models and states that, on Android, only the PlayStation Edition is on Sony’s supported controller list. Do not assume every Backbone model works with Sony’s official Android Remote Play app. Check the precise phone model and connector against the manufacturer’s current compatibility information before purchase.
Rank #2
- All-in-One Media Control: Take command of your entertainment system. This remote is specifically designed for the PlayStation 5, allowing you to navigate the PS5 home menu, control video playback (Play/Pause/FF/Rewind), and manage your 4K Blu-rays and streaming apps without ever reaching for your DualSense controller.
- Universal TV Power & Volume (IR Learning): Replace your cluttered coffee table setup. This remote features built-in IR learning technology that allows it to control your TV’s power, volume, and mute functions. Program it in seconds to work with most major TV brands (Sony, LG, Samsung, Vizio, TCL, and more).
- Bluetooth 5.0 Connectivity & Easy Setup: No dongles, no line-of-sight issues. Pair the remote to your PS5 instantly via Bluetooth 5.0 for a lag-free . Setup is plug-and-play—simply go to your PS5 [Settings] > [Accessories]> [Media Remote]> [Set Up Media Remote]. to pair and start using it immediately.
- Instant Access Shortcuts: Dive into your favorite content faster. Equipped with dedicated shortcut buttons for popular streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Spotify, you can launch your favorite apps instantly with a single press, bypassing the main menu entirely.
- Ergonomic Design : Say goodbye to awkward hand cramps. Designed with a comfortable, lightweight grip and a responsive D-pad for precise navigation
Play on a PC or Mac with PS Remote Play
A PC or Mac can receive a PS Remote Play stream, making it a practical choice if you would rather play at a desk or use a larger computer screen than a phone. It still depends on your console and network, so it is not a console-free cloud-streaming alternative.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFor the official PS Remote Play app on PC or Mac, Backbone’s compatibility FAQ says Sony supports DualSense or DualShock controllers. See Backbone’s controller compatibility details and Sony’s Remote Play instructions before setting up your device.
Rank #3
- 【Pre-use Notice】𝗚𝗼 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 for 𝗣𝗦-𝟱 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗦𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱 𝘁𝗼 "𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗨𝗦𝗕 𝗖𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲", 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸.(Settings> Accessories>Controller (General)>Communication Method>Select “Use USB Cable”)
- 【Microphone Function】The back paddles supports the controller’s headphone microphone, allowing you to communicate with your teammates during gameplay, taking your gaming experience to the next level.
- 【Plug and Play Wired Connection】Unlike other remap kits for ps-5 controller, the back paddles require no installation—just connect and play immediately(Note: Controller Not Included) wired connection!
- 【4 Programmable / Remap Back Buttons】Features 4 back paddles (M1/M2/M3/M4). Press the Macro button to enter programming and remap mode. Just tap Macro, then record single controller inputs or multi‑button combos to any back paddle of your choice. Each paddle can save up to 25 button inputs, with each individual recorded button press capped at 5 seconds.
- 【Turbo Function】Suppprt Semi-Automatic and Fully-Automatic Turbo, Controller Single-Button Rapid Fire or Programming Combo Loop, Efficient Repetitive Output(Speed: 8Hz)
PlayStation Portal: Remote Play and Cloud Streaming are different
Portal is Sony’s dedicated PS5 Remote Play device, with integrated controls. It is not compatible with PS4. Sony documents wired 3.5 mm audio and PlayStation Link wireless audio on its Portal compatibility page.
Portal also supports Cloud Streaming for select games. Sony announced the full launch on November 5, 2025. Eligible adult accounts in supported regions need PlayStation Plus Premium. Available games include select PS5 catalog titles and certain digital games in a player’s library; the eligible list and regional availability vary. Sony says Cloud Streaming can be used away from home over Wi-Fi while the PS5 is off or being used by someone else. Consult Sony’s current Portal Cloud Streaming information for eligibility and details, and the November 5, 2025 launch announcement for the launch description.
Rank #4
- Immersive native experience: Built from original PS5 DualSense controllers; retains haptic feedback and Bluetooth; fully compatible with PlayStation 5 and PC; keeps official ergonomics and performance
- 4 Programmable back paddles: Support Mapping, Turbo, Auto-Turbo, Combo, and Key Combination functions for flexible customization and smoother control; ergonomic layout ensures intuitive access
- Upgraded joystick module: TMR Electromagnetic Joystick deliver superior anti-drift performance over Hall effect; Includes 3 pairs of swappable caps (concave/domed/tall); Tool-free replacement adapts to different grip styles
- Extended Playtime: Powered by a 2500mAh battery for up to 11 hours of wireless gaming; the anti-slip soft rubber back grip improves stability and reduces hand fatigue during gameplay
- Complete refresh configuration: Custom shell with UV scratch-resistant coating combines great feel and style; includes USB-C cable and storage bag, supporting wired mode and easy portability for a full gaming experience
Cloud Streaming is not access to every game you own: only qualifying titles can be streamed, and access depends on the supported region, account eligibility, and subscription. Remote Play, by contrast, streams from your own console.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Steam Deck and other Linux handhelds
Sony’s consulted compatibility information lists supported phones, tablets, PCs, and Macs, but does not establish official PS Remote Play support for Steam Deck or other Linux handhelds. That does not establish that third-party methods cannot work; it means you should treat them as unofficial and check the current app, setup requirements, limitations, and terms before relying on one.
Best Value
- Media playback controls - Quickly navigate media with built-in play/pause, fast forward and fast reverse buttons.
- Seamless console compatibility - Power on your PS5 console and navigate its menus directly with the remote for ultimate convenience.
- TV settings - Adjust the volume and power settings of compatible TVs with the built-in IR transmitter. PS5 system software update may be required.
Check your network before choosing
Sony’s Remote Play guidance sets 5 Mbps as the minimum connection speed and recommends 15 Mbps for a better experience. Sony cautions that quality varies with the network environment and mobile carrier. A speed figure alone cannot guarantee a particular image quality or latency. If you use mobile data, streaming may consume your plan’s allowance. See Sony’s Remote Play connection guidance.
For Portal Cloud Streaming, Sony specifies a minimum of 5 Mbps upload and download to establish a session and provides further requirements for higher resolutions. Availability also depends on region and title. Check the current Cloud Streaming requirements rather than assuming that Remote Play and Cloud Streaming use identical conditions.
Quick Recap
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.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
